Fun-filled day of Friends, Family & Food

Thurs. July 19, 2012

Today I felt more tired than I have lately, but I have done a lot this past week and it’s a good tired that I’m experiencing. I went to lunch with two friends and we had such a great time talking and catching up on each other’s lives. Listening to my two friends and hearing about some of the struggles that they are going through in their lives and with their families helped me to realize that everyone has challenges whether it be health or concern for children. It’s part of this life’s experience. As we go through these trials and turn to the Lord for strength and guidance, we gain a better understanding of his love for each of us. I think of the patience that he shows toward me and my short comings and I recognize how much more patient that I need to be with myself and with those around me. I’m grateful for the perspective that the Gospel brings to me.

This afternoon I received a text from Tyler suggesting that they come over for a game night to have some fun with me before I go in for Round #6 of chemo tomorrow. I was so excited! We ended up going out to dinner first to give the house a chance to cool down. I’m soooo grateful!

Around 5:00 this evening, our friend showed up with the new part to repair our a/c. It was wonderful to feel that cool air blowing across my toes by the kitchen sink! I was extra brave and said hi to him in the kitchen (without my wig) just the baseball cap. Look at me getting comfortable in my own skin! haha

Then we met Tyler and Andrea at Winger’s for dinner because it was too hot to cook. After, we delivered some muffins to our neighbor whose son passed away last month. It was great to see her and to see the son’s young wife and boys who had driven from Kansas to visit for a few weeks. We also watched Tyler and Andrea’s wedding video and loved reliving that magical day with them. We played a few rounds of Farkle and laughed a lot. 

Finally, I asked Tyler and Lincoln to give me a blessing that I might be strong in body and spirit as I go through this next round of chemo. I felt a spirit of peace wash over me and I know that everything will be all right. I’m grateful for the priesthood in my life and for the good men that honor their priesthood who can bless me through it. I'm also very grateful to sleep in a nice cool house tonight! Sweet dreams!

Spending time with My Girls

Wed. July 18, 2012

This morning, Ashley and I went walking again. I didn’t even hesitate to leave the house with just my baseball cap and earrings. Look at me getting brave! We ran into my neighbor across the street who’s daughter is getting married this week and having a reception in a friend’s backyard next week. We talked for a while and I tried to find out how we can help her with things. It was great to visit with her and I’m excited to help someone else with their wedding. Ashley and I walked a good 30 minutes and fed the horses on the way home. My feet are pretty tender, but I have a smile on my face and I’m feeling more fit.

Ashley made me come home and rest for a bit. I laid down but spent time talking with the Relief Society President about what the possible help we may be able to extend to our friend with the wedding. After 20 minutes, Ashley reminded me that talking on the phone planning a wedding ‘is NOT resting.’ She’s going to be such a good mom. So I decided to take her advice and just rest while she showered.

Later the girls and I drove up to Park City Outlet Stores. They were shopping for new school clothes and it was fun to spend some time with them and go for a drive. It was much cooler up there. When we got home the house was very warm and we realized that the a/c unit was not working. I tried to rest in my bedroom, but so discovered it was close to 90 degrees up there and a tad uncomfortable!
I finally moved to the family room downstairs to get some relief. Lincoln came home and called our neighbor who does a/c repair and installation as a second job. He came over around 7pm and stayed for 3 hours. Luckily, it’s a small part that needs to be repaired and he can replace it tomorrow night. Lincoln, the girls and I opened all the windows and tried to find a cool place to crash for the night. 

Zucchini Craze

Tues. July 17, 2012 

Today I got up early and decided that it’s time I win the battle on the abundance of zucchini that our two plants are producing. Lincoln keeps bring 2-3 zucchini a day in the house for me to figure out what to do with. Hahah I decided to try making muffins that we can share, eat, and freeze for the future. I ended up making about 76 muffins and using quite a few zucchini in the process. I took a little rest this afternoon and then woke up in time make dinner for the family. Linc thought dinner was delicious and I’m so grateful for the days that I feel strong enough to do things for my family and show them how much I love them.

I wrapped up cute plates with muffins and delivered them to my visiting teaching partner and the 3 ladies that we visit. It was good to see them and share my love for them. They are terrific ladies.

It’s been a wonderfully busy day and I’m beat. Good night world. 

Keep on Moving

Mon. July 16, 2012

After my talk with the oncologist last Friday and her recommending that I have some fun before my treatment next week, I decided to do exactly that. I decided to keep on exercising and getting out of the house. I asked my daughter Ashley to go walking with me in the neighborhood. I went early so that the UV index would be low and I wouldn’t have to worry too much about being sunburned. I also decided that I wanted to walk fast enough to break a sweat and I definitely did NOT want to sweat in my wig. That meant I’d need to go in just my baseball cap. Now I wear my baseball cap around the house all the time, but I’ve never gone outside with it in ‘public.’ I was pretty nervous about it and felt insecure. I wore my sunglasses, baseball cap and a cute pair of earring so that people would know I was a ‘girl.’ Ashley reassured me and, I took a deep breath and out the door we went. We had such a lovely time walking and talking and feeling alive! We walked for about 20 minutes as a moderate pace and I felt that rush of endorphins that I haven’t felt in long time. I finished my work out at home with a 20 minutes calisthenics work out. Woohoo!

This evening, I was told that I needed to come outside to the front yard. As I came out, I saw a sweet family from down the street who had brought their 4 boys to come help weed my front yard flower bed. The mom, who had surgery about 4 weeks ago was on her knees weeding too! I tried to get them to stop and they refused, so I joined in. We had a wonderful time visiting as the weeds disappeared. Luckily I had just bought popsicles and was able to share those as a thank you for all their hard work. I have THE best friends around!

Tonight Tyler emailed to say that he has been accepted into the Marriott School of Business Management at BYU for the Fall! We are so excited for him!! He’s worked hard to get in to this program and it's paid off. I’m grateful for hard working kids.

By small and simple things

Sun. July 15, 2012

Today was an incredible day in church. A brother and sister spoke on their LDS Missions. The young man is leaving for England in 3 days and the sister just returned from serving in Cambodia. There was such an amazing spirit there. It reminded me of my mission, many years ago, to Argentina and how grateful I am for those experiences I had love and serving the people there and strengthening my testimony and relationship with the Savior in the process. 

In Sacrament Meeting, I was especially caught off guard by the opening prayer. It was by my friend Janelle. At the end of her prayer she asked for blessings to be poured out upon those in our ward who are facing health challenges right now. She asked that we continue "to pray for Lisa Jacobs and her family as she goes through treatment for cancer". I was so overcome by the spirit, I began to cry. I think I cried all the make up off my face that I had put on this morning. Her husband said the closing prayer and repeated the same sentiment in my behalf. Going to church not only allows me to renew my covenants with the Lord to be a good person but it also renews my spirit and lifts me to face the challenges ahead from the love and support of the ward members. It is amazing to me how touched I am by the small and simple acts of kindness and love that I have in my life.  I am very blessed. 

Holding On in Faith

Friday July 13, 2012

This afternoon Lincoln and I had a consultation appointment my doctor because because she was out of town at my last chemo appointment. We wanted to sit down and ask her some questions about my last chest CT scan and how that applies to my future treatments. She explained that when a scan indicates that the tumor is ‘stable’ that really IS a good sign. She also indicated that because my tumor is an irregular shape "non small cell highly differentiated," each scan can be a little deceiving due to the angle that the scan was taken. It may actually be smaller than the measurements taken. I told her about my way of thinking about my progress and how I likened it to being on a diet and losing a lot of weight in the beginning and later hitting a plateau and then eventually pushing through that plateau by continuing to do the right things. She said that is a wonderful analogy of what happens to tumors and she's going to use that to explain to her future patients.

I asked her what happens to me from here. She said that I’ll have my chemo #6 next Friday as scheduled. Then 3 weeks later I’ll go in for another PET Scan to get a lot of details about how the tumor is reacting to this current chemo cocktail. If the tumor is completely gone, then we are done. The PET Scan will indicate what kinds of cancer cells are left. If not and there is still some cancer to fight, they will be able to determine if more of the cells that are reacting positive to the current medication are still present, then I will probably have 2 more rounds of the current chemo meds. After that, I’ll have another chest CT scan to assess the progress. If there are different kinds of cancer cells present in my body, then we may need to change up the chemo drugs and try more rounds of some new chemo drugs to attempt to kill those cells. 

I had a number of questions to ask her about my health and some of my symptoms. I told her the neuropathy in my feet is getting worse. It's gone from a 4 last visit to a 6 today. I had on flip flops for comfort and I showed her the sore spots on the bottom of my feet. She immediately reacted and said, “You poor thing! No wonder you are in pain.” I told her I’m managing it with Tylenol throughout the days and nights. It hurts my feet to wear shoes a lot. She suggested I get a slightly bigger pair of tennis shoes that will give my toes more room and support to help with the pain. We talked about a few other symptoms and challenges. I told her I just need to know what is normal and that I just need to ‘bear through’ and what are things that I might be able to do differently to cope with.

After talking with her for some time and realizing that this is most likely going to be a longer journey than I had geared myself up for, I realized that this is a lot to take in. I was surprised that I got emotional in the office. I was so hoping that I was almost through with this treatment and that round 6 would signal the end, but that may very well not be the end of it. It was sobering. She told me that I was doing great and to hang in there and do something fun before next week’s round of chemo.

I walked out to the car with Lincoln and just cried. I’m not sure exactly why. I guess it felt good to have her acknowledge that I am going through some hard things and that I’m doing well with all of it. Cancer isn’t easy. In fact some days, it’s pretty hard and I can honestly say that I don’t like cancer one bit. I want to be better. I want to heal and get on with my life. I need to keep the faith and hold on. I need to hold on.

Wonderful Ordinary Day

Thursday July 12, 2012

Today I was busy cleaning the house and doing laundry. Ashley & I picked up Andrea from work this afternoon and took her shopping at Costco. It was so much fun talking with her and seeing her buy things for their little home. Afterward, she came to our place to wait until Tyler got off work. Ashley and Andrea get along so well. It’s great to see. I’m grateful for our growing family and the wonderful addition that Andrea is to it.

Spiritually & Physically Fit today!

Wednesday July 11, 2012

This morning I went to the temple with two of my sisters-in-law again. It was wonderful to be there and to feel the spirit. We had lunch in the cafeteria together and had a great time just talking and catching up with each other.

This afternoon I decided it’s time that I get back in shape and start doing some exercises to help me feel better. I can’t go running outside because of burning in the sun so I decided to try doing sit ups, crunches, leg lifts, lunges, squats, etc. I was hoping to start out with a 20 minute work out. I was shaking and sweating when I was doing them. I looked at my watch and it was only 12 minutes. Haha! But it felt good and I’m glad I did. I’ll just try and do a little bit every day. Gotta love those endorphins!

Little things mean a lot!

Tuesday July 10, 2012

Last night I sent Chad an email letting him know that we had received a letter in the mail for him yesterday from a medical school. I wasn’t sure if I should open it, send it to him, or just keep it until he gets back at the end of the month. I told him a little about my treatments and that I’m doing well. I really didn’t expect to hear back from him. He’s really busy with his job in Alaska and we usually don’t hear from him very often. 

I was thrilled to see an email in my inbox from him this morning. He said that he was glad to hear from me and that he’s been super busy this summer with his job. Then he wrote something that really touched my heart. He wrote, “I’m glad you are getting through everything. I’m proud of you. Really. You make cancer look easy. J” I needed to hear that. Sometimes I have felt like he doesn’t really have time to think much about me and what I’m going through. It meant the world to me to know that he does care and he’s proud of me. I miss him and I wish we were closer. It will be great to see him when he gets home in 3 weeks.

Family History, it's time again.

Monday July 9, 2012

For some time, I have had the impression that I need to get going again on my family history. I told myself, I’d get to it after the wedding was over and things settled down. Well, the wedding and the Vernal reception are over. I’ve been through another round of chemo and am feeling better again, so . . . it’s time.

I think the hardest part about family history or genealogy is just getting started or getting started again. I have a binder of information of my family history from where I left of a number of years ago and now I’m trying to figure out where I left off and get started again. It can be a bit overwhelming. I promised myself and the Lord that I would spend 1 hour getting started today. So I did. A lot has changed since I last worked on this project. Software has changed, people now charge you to search for information on the internet, that used to be free. It’s a whole new world. Luckily, Ashley had a family history class for institute last fall at Utah State. She shared some very valuable information about ‘free’ websites that I can check out to look for information about ancestors. After almost 2 hours of searching and looking, I have begun to get ‘started’ on this project. I decided to take a break and take a nap. I will do some more tomorrow. It feels good just to know that I’m back in the saddle and making progress on my family history, one day at a time.

Wonderful Sabbath Day

Sunday July 8, 2012

Another wonderful day today! I attended our home ward Sacrament Meeting and heard the report of a young man who has recently returned from serving a mission to Germany. It was wonderful. Afterward, I stopped by his home to visit with his mom for a moment and drop off some food for their open house. Next Lincoln & I attended another Sacrament Meeting in the Young Single Adult Ward. It was great to see the kids and visit with many of them and other adult leaders in the ward. I came home for a quick rest and then our home teachers dropped by to visit. We love having them come see us. Lexy and I decided to ‘create’ in the kitchen. I made corn/bean salsa. Yummy! Lexy was busy making zucchini bread with home grown zucchini from our garden. She did a great job.

After dinner, Lincoln decided to make some zucchini bread for the families that he home teaches. He’s a man of a many talents! One of our neighbors dropped by with some delicious food for us and to visit in the back yard a while. We were thrilled to see Andrea & Tyler drop by on their way home from a weekend visiting in Vernal.

Finally I came upstairs to crash on our bed. Lincoln and the girls soon followed. They decided to put on a few episodes of ‘Myth Busters.’ Watching that show on Netflix has become a tradition in our family.  I must have worn myself out, because I don’t remember the ending of the show OR our family prayer. It was a wonderful day of being alive and living!

The Phoenix Rises

Saturday July 7, 2012

Day 11 – I am beginning to feel like a person again! I have a new nickname for myself. I’m going to start calling myself “The Phoenix.” Just when I look like I’m down and out for the count and I start to give up on myself, I rise from the ashes like the Phoenix and rise again to fly! I know that sounds a bit dramatic, but that’s exactly how I felt today. I got dressed this morning and ran some errands at the store with Ashley. I was able to go to a neighbor’s bridal shower and visit with friends. Later this evening I was able to go with Lincoln & Lexy to another friend’s wedding reception and visit with her for a time. It was a wonderful day and I am so grateful to not only be alive today, but to FEEL alive today. I have to keep believing in myself and practice that quality of patience!

I will rise again and again, and again!

Remembering Eternity . . .

Thursday July 5, 2012

Day 9 – I’m still feeling lethargic and lifeless. I just feel like a big lump and I think I’m feeling a bit depressed. During the last round of chemo, I was feeling better around Day 6 and that’s definitely not the case this round. I just have to hold on in faith that I will get better and that this is only a temporary situation. I have to turn it over to the Lord and trust in him to help me through this.

There was a knock on the door late tonight. Linc went to see who it was. It was another ‘doorbell ditcher’ that left a gift for me. It was a beautiful table decoration that was a glass etching with a picture of the Salt Lake Temple with the words ETERNITY above it. There was a candle behind it and a mirror behind that. When you looked at the temple, you could see eternity as the reflection of the candle light went on forever. It made me cry. I realized that I need to remember the big picture. I need to remember my place and purpose in eternity and not just ‘today.’ I was very grateful for that ‘doorbell ditcher’ and that message that was shared with me tonight.

Happy Birthday, America!

Wednesday July 4, 2012

Happy Birthday, America! How grateful I am to live in this wonderful country where I enjoy so many freedoms and have such great opportunities for me and my children. I'm also grateful for the amazing men and women who sacrifice to keep our freedoms safe. We are a blessed nation and I'm proud to be an American!

I slept really well last night and it felt so good! Lincoln was busy working on cars during the day. I puttered around the house and then Lincoln, Ashley and I met Andrea & Tyler at the movies to watch the latest Disney movie, Brave. It was fun hanging out together. After the show, we drove to Provo for a tour of the kids’ new apartment. I was so impressed with the wonderful job they did of decorating their one bedroom apartment. It was beautiful! They were so excited to show us everything they got for the wedding and how they used it to decorate their new home. Tyler had made several trips to Home Depot to buy things to hang shelves, pictures, and wall decorations. It looked great! Andrea made the comment, “Who knew he was so handy!” It’s wonderful to see the two of them learning to discover new things about each other and loving the process.

Later back at our place, we made watermelon smoothies and had dinner together. Then we played games and went outside to watch fireworks going off in the neighborhood. I’m grateful I was able to enjoy this evening together with our family.

Happy Birthday, America!

Slow and steady

Tuesday July 3, 2012

Another day of S-L-O-W! I was hoping to have more energy today, but that was not the case. I did manage to get dressed before Lincoln came home from work. Haha! I just need to be patient with my body and let it get the rest it needs.

This afternoon Ashley and I made some food for tomorrow’s 4^th of July celebration. I made a macaroni-salad and Ashley came up with a yummy recipe for Watermelon Smoothie. We also cooked a roast in the crock pot for pulled pork sandwiches tomorrow. The house smelled delicious!

Ashley to the Rescue!

Monday July 2, 2012

Today I felt pretty worn out and yucky. My heart is racing and I feel all the side effects in full bloom! Ashley came to the rescue and made so many things happen that I simply couldn't. Ashley is a huge help. She drove to Provo to return all the linens and chair sashes that we took to Vernal. Then she got Lexy off to EFY this morning at BYU and took her and Lexy's roommate to lunch to celebrate. Lexy was so excited for this opportunity to live on campus for a week with her friend from school and to feel the spirit. I’m grateful we can send her and that she wants to have that experience in her life. I pray that she will have her testimony strengthened and draw closer to the Lord as well as have a wonderful time making new friends.

Day 4. . . again

Sunday July 1, 2012

Day 4 and feeling like it. I got up and got ready for the long drive home. Linc and the girls did all the work packing the car and cleaning out the hotel room. I dozed on and off for the 3 ½ hour drive home. We got home around 1pm and I went straight to bed. 

My cute girls got changed quickly and decided to catch the last little bit of their church. Lexy is at the home ward and Ashley at the young single’s ward. Linc unpacked everything from the van and then cleaned up in the house. He’s such a good man.

Late tonight, Tyler & Andrea stopped by on their drive home from Vernal to their little place in Provo. We had received more wedding gifts and cards for them. They opened a few presents and talked about how excited they are for their new little place and getting it all set up with both of their things. They are so happy together. It makes my heart smile.

Vernal Wedding Reception

Saturday June 30, 2012

We got up early to get ready to head to Vernal for the reception there. It’s a 3 ½ hour drive and we are hoping to be able to fit all the fresh flowers, linens, chair sashes, my stool and other belongings in the back of the van for the trip. I’m praying for strength to be able to enjoy this evening with Tyler & Andrea and their family.  Today is Day 3 and Days 4 & 5 are always my hardest days after chemo. I’m trusting in the Lord. The girls have been great this morning helping to pull everything together.

We made it safely to Vernal and were able to deliver the flowers and decorations to Annette like she wanted. It was very hot there. The room was full of pictures of Tyler and Andrea. We helped put on the table cloths and chair sashes and set out the centerpieces. It was very pretty. 

Champaigne Satin Chair Sashes 

Gorgeous Flowers

Kokopelli Reception Center

One of the walls of the reception center was made of huge glass panels that went from ceiling to floor. Out back was a beautiful garden with gorgeous flowers, Koi ponds, a water fall and rock formations. We stood in the shade in front of a backdrop of wisteria. It was beautiful. I really enjoyed the opportunity to meet so many wonderful people who have known Andrea since she was little and have watched her grow up. We met her young women leaders, stake patriarch and lifelong friends who made comments that Tyler must be a wonderful young man for Andrea to choose him. It made me smile. We were thrilled to see one of our neighbors who made the 3 hour drive to come to the reception because they were out of town the week before. What great people! Then we saw Lincoln’s sister, her husband, and their 3 children come through the line. They had also made the long drive from Salt Lake to come celebrate with us. It was a great day of celebrating again.

Ashley and Lexy - My beautiful girls!

Sign-in Table

The Wedding Line

Mr. & Mrs. Tyler Jacobs

I met a friend of Andrea’s family who mentioned to Andrea that she had just completed her last cancer treatment two days before. I didn’t even know this lady, but I was so happy for her. Later she came and visited with me and it turns out that she goes to the same oncologist that I do and that she was actually in the office on Thursday when I got my last chemo treatment. We had a wonderful talk about faith and trusting in the Lord through the entire cancer journey. She told me that she wants to keep in touch with me through Andrea and watch my progress.

By 8:30pm, I was tired and ready to rest. Lincoln dropped me off at the hotel room with Lexy. Then he & Ashley helped clean up the reception. I’m grateful once again for the blessing of being able to share this day with Tyler and Andrea and the rest of our family. It was another celebration of two amazing young people who have made wonderful choices in their lives to be where they are today. . . at the beginning of a very promising life together. 

Round #5 of Chemo

Thursday June 28, 2012

I had my visit with the on-call oncologist this morning. My regular doctor is out of town for the week. To the best of her ability the doctor said that my chest scan from yesterday looks like the large tumor is stable and has not grown any. The smaller lymph nodes have shrunk a little bit. She said that it was up to me if I wanted to go ahead with treatment today or wait to talk to my doctor next week. I’m already a week overdue for my treatment, due to the wedding. She said she felt confident that NO GROWING is a very good sign and she recommended that I go through with the treatment as well. So, I did. 

I have to admit that I was a little disappointed with the results. After thinking about it during the day, I've decided to compare it to losing weight and being on a diet. In the beginning, your body usually responds with a lot of weight loss, but as time goes on, you can hit plateaus. I believe I’ve hit a plateau and I need to show forth my faith by continuing to take care of myself, rest, and allow the Lord to work in my life. If I do, I will push through this plateau and see better results next time. I must have faith if I want miracles to continue to take place in my life. I received so many words of encouragement today from many, many friends and family via texts, Facebook messages, emails, and phone calls. I am so very, very blessed. I will win this battle. I will not give up the fight.

Another CT Chest Scan

Wednesday June 27, 2012

This morning Ashley took me to get my CT chest scan at the hospital. It was a piece of cake. I am really hoping for a great test result and that I am progressing in ridding my body of this cancer. I tried to take it easy this afternoon and get a good nap in. I’m working on getting rested up for chemo tomorrow and heading out to the Vernal wedding reception on Saturday.

This afternoon I had a surprise visit from a dear neighbor who moved from Lindon several years ago. We’ve remained in touch as friends on Facebook. She & her daughter showed up and brought me a flower and a bag of delicious popsicles. It was so wonderful to talk to them and to feel of their spirit and love and support. I am grateful for such wonderful people in my life who continue to uplift and sustain me. It really made my day.

McKenzie, Michelle & Me

Wedding Hang-over Sets In

Tuesday June 26, 2012

Today I actually felt the ‘wedding hang over’ set in. I took it easy this morning around the house. I stopped by a friend’s home with a little birthday gift and wished her a happy birthday. We ended up visiting for about an hour and it was so enjoyable to focus on someone else and what’s going on in her life. I’m so blessed by the good friendships that I have in this neighborhood.

This afternoon Lexy and I went to the store and bought some flowers for a neighbor whose son was killed in a horrible car accident last week. He was a wonderful young man, husband, father of 4 and in the military. He was Chad and Tyler’s age and it was a huge shock when I learned the news. I have been thinking of and praying for his mom and wife and their 4 children all weekend long. Lexy and I went over tonight and shared our love and support and tears for the passing of this remarkable young man. Life is so fragile. It can change in an instant. We must cherish the moments we have here on the earth with those we love, you just never know what trials will come. I’m so grateful for the Plan of Salvation and the knowledge that families are forever through the binding covenants of the temple. I’m so grateful for my family and the love that we share. 

Tying up loose ends

Monday June 25, 2012

This morning I still felt good and was able to run a few errands returning the cake stand and the platters that went along with that. Andrea’s mom called to double check on some decorations for the Vernal Reception next Saturday. I’m so grateful that the ball is in her court right now and that she’s in charge. It was a wonderful weekend and I’m grateful to be on the other side of it looking back with a smile about how well everything went.

The Day After . . .

Sunday June 24, 2012

Chad, Chris, Connie and the girls flew out early this this morning. I was so tired, I didn’t even hear a word. The rest of us went to sacrament meeting and then came home. We enjoyed a few hours together having lunch and playing games before Mom & Dad and Kathy & Maddie had to pack up their things and head off to the airport. Alex and his girlfriend were here as well and we talked them in to staying a big longer to play some video games with Ashley and Lexy. When they left, the house was quiet and it felt good, but odd, to not have anything pressing to worry about. J

Tyler & Andrea's Wedding Day!

Saturday June 23, 2012

I woke up feeling great today! I have been blessed to be able to participate in all these events and I’m so grateful for that tender mercy in my life. I recognize that all the hard work and effort from so many of my friends and the blessings of the Lord are what's making this possible.

Taking the Bridal Bouquet to the Temple

Andrea came to our home this morning and she & Tyler drove over to the temple. Lincoln and I met them there again. The temple was exceptionally busy today and one of the temple workers told me that the temple was completely booked with wedding sealings. I waited in the marriage waiting room and loved seeing family and friends show up to be a part of this special day. We were seated in the sealing room and waited for Tyler and Andrea to arrive. Once all the guests were seated, the happy couple came in. They just glowed! They were given some wonderful advice by the officiator to love each other and make their marriage and family a priority in their lives. He referred to the “Family Proclamation” as a source of guidance and direction for them. Then they were asked to kneel at the altar. As the wedding ordinance was said, Tyler and Andrea just gazed into each other’s eyes and I could see their love for one another. It was very sweet. Afterwards, we each gave them a hug and came outside to wait for them to emerged from the temple as husband and wife. We had many more family members waiting outside and it was wonderful to be together! Lincoln’s sister Jenny was thoughtful enough to bring 2 cases of ice cold water to share with everyone in the wedding party. It was about 90 degrees and quite warm!

Presenting . . . the new "Mr & Mrs Tyler Jacobs!"

Lincoln, Lisa, Tyler & Andrea

(back) Ashley, Chad & Lexy

When Tyler and Andrea came out of the temple, we all broke out in a huge cheer for the happy couple! They looked stunning! We had many, many pictures taken. Then we left them to go home and get ready for the reception. By the time I got home, had a bite to eat, and was able to lay down, I only had about 20 minutes for a quick nap. Then I was up and getting dressed for the reception.

At 4:30pm, we showed up at the reception and my amazing friends and neighbors were already there unpacking the decorations and setting everything up. It was a busy, busy place. Little by little everything came together. Lincoln set up the flat screen so that people could see a 1-2 minute video clip of the highlights from the temple that morning. We brought my tall black stool to put in line so that I could sit during the reception and not get too shaky as we greeted our guests. It was perfect.

The reception was wonderful! I can’t believe how beautiful it turned out. My friends and family did such an amazing job taking care of everything so that I could truly enjoy being in the moment and greeting all of our friends and family who had traveled to share this special day with us. My heart was touched by some of the people who I never thought would be able to make it, but they did! Tyler and Andrea looked so happy. They both just glowed. In all the business of the evening, I was so impressed that Andrea took time at the end of the evening to go to the kitchen area and personally thank all my friends for their efforts to pull off the reception and help make this evening so special for her. Annette, Andrea’s mom, also commented on what wonderful support we have in our neighborhood and ward and how beautiful everything turned out. My brother, Chris, was an awesome help making sure I had water to drink and that I wasn’t getting too tired. I tried not to hug people as I sat on my high black stool, but when I did, Lincoln has his germex bottle in his pocket that I would rub it on my hands. I really felt strong most of the night and was so grateful for everything. I love the Father/Bride and Mother/Groom dance where I had the chance to dance with Tyler. I told him how much I love him and how proud I am of the choices that he's made in his life. He told me how happy he was and grateful that I could share in today's celebrations. I'm so grateful that all of my family could be here to enjoy this moment in our lives.

The Couples First Dance

At the end of the night, Tyler and Andrea left through an archway of family and friends blowing bubbles as they ran through it. It was a fairy tale night! Today is one of those parental moments that you look forward to your whole life, embrace it while it lasts, and will forever remember in my heart. Life is good!

The Happy Couple leaving through an archway of bubbles!

Wedding Dinner

Friday June 22, 2012

This morning I woke up grateful for two things for today. Number one, I'm grateful that I don't have to have chemo today and that I get to postpone it until next week. Number two, I'm grateful that I get to go to the temple to be a part of Andrea's first time going through. 

Andrea came over to drive with Tyler and I drove with Lincoln. It was a beautiful summer morning.  Andrea’s mom was there waiting for us in the temple foyer. She was so excited to see her daughter there. Lincoln and Annette were Tyler & Andrea’s escorts. I got dressed and waited in the temple chapel. I had about an hour to ponder and reflect on this day and what it means to our family. I read the scriptures and poured my heart out in earnest prayer that Tyler & Andrea would feel the spirit today and be sure of the decision that they are making tomorrow to be married. I also asked the Lord to continue to allow miracles to happen in my life and thanked him that I am able to be part of this special day. It was a sweet peace.

After the endowment session, Lincoln & I and Andrea’s family waited in the beautiful Celestial Room for Tyler and Andrea to enter. As they walked in, hand in hand, I felt the overwhelming joy of being together as a family in the temple. Each of us took a moment, to quietly give Tyler and Andrea a hug and express our love to them. I truly believe that this is what heaven will be like. We will be together with our family members in the presence of God and feeling the powerful spirit of love. I pray that each of my other children will desire to make the choices necessary in their lives that we will have the opportunity to share this same experience with each one of them as they find their own sweetheart.  I am extremely grateful for this morning’s experience.

This afternoon, we came home and I took a nap. Chad flew in from Alaska this morning. He later came over and helped Lincoln take the sound system and projector over to the Veteran’s Memorial Building for the wedding dinner. My friends and neighbors went over before me and set up all the tables and chairs and decorated the place just beautifully! I was amazed as I walked in and saw how they had transformed the place. It was gorgeous! At 6pm, family and the wedding party showed up and the evening began. Lincoln did a great job as the MC. Andrea’s dad, Kim, and I each did a short spotlight on the kids’ lives. We enjoyed dinner and then had people share words of advice for the newlyweds.  Some of the fun advice they received was: "If you have to argue, argue naked!" "Always go to bed angry, it’s more fun to make up." "To the husband, remember that the last two words you say at the end of any argument should be, “You’re right.”" "Remember that through everything, have fun and enjoy your time together. Remember to laugh and smile and just love each other." "To the husband, 'No matter what size bed you buy, it doesn't really matter, you will only get 'this' much of it.'" "Spend the rest of your life loving and serving your spouse and you will find true happiness."

The food was delicious and the company was wonderful. My sweet friends served dessert and then cleaned everything up at the end so I could go home and rest up for the big day tomorrow! I am so grateful for the wonderful people in my life!

Tyler & Andrea at their Wedding Dinner June 22, 2012

Entrance to Wedding Dinner

Congratulations!

Groomsmen and Wedding Party

Guests are arriving . . .

Thursday June 21, 2012

My family started flying in today from Seattle. I picked up my brother Chris, his wife Connie and their girls, Emma & Anna, from the airport this afternoon. My mom was dropped off from visiting with her sisters in Ogden shortly afterward. It was a glorious day! My Dad flew in late tonight. Lincoln, Chris & Connie along with the girls and Ashley got to have an evening of fun at Seven Peaks Water Park. I was home with my Mom. Tyler was downstairs busy packing for the wedding and honeymoon. He keeps smiling and saying, "I can't believe I'm going to be married in 2 days." He's so happy and I'm so happy for him.

Ready, Set, Go . . .

Wednesday June 20, 2012

Today was full of latest minute preparations as I get things ready for my 16 family members who will begin arriving tomorrow for the wedding celebrations. I was very busy cleaning the house, running errands, changing bedding and getting ready for the wedding. My sweet neighborhood friends told me that there was a 'Costco Committee' of ladies that were ready to run any last minute errands to Costco for me regarding food for the wedding dinner and for the reception. I was so grateful for that added support. It was a fine balance between doing things around the house and then resting and then doing a little more and resting again.

After months of preparation, I don't want to be too exhausted to participate in all of the wonderful events that will take place between Friday and Saturday with our family and friends as Tyler and Andrea become Mr. & Mrs. Jacobs!

Life is Sweet

Tuesday June 19, 2012

Today was spent making waffle cone inserts to go in the ice cream bowls for the wedding reception. Ashley and her friend Rachel went over to my friend Jeannee’s home. They started at 10:30 in the morning and worked until 6:00pm. I joined them about 11am and we had so much fun baking the cones, shaping them over the end of a drinking glass and then letting them cool, and 'having to' eat the ruined ones! After that we dipped a side of cones in white or pink chocolate and then drizzled pink, white, or chocolate sprinkles over the chocolate. They look AMAZING!  We multiplied the recipe 32x!! That’s a crazy amount of waffle bowls! I enjoyed visiting with everyone and it felt good to be among friends. Finally I got tired and came home for a nap.

This evening, there was a letter in my ‘Love Box’ on the porch.  I opened it to find that it was from my neighbor and her 4th grade-aged daughter. It was a store bought card that started with “Even though cancer is a part of your life, it doesn't define you. You define yourself with strength, your courage, your hope . . . “ It was a beautiful! I immediately started tearing up. Inside one half of the card, my neighbor explained that she has gone shopping with her daughter for birthday party invitations. My friend was very frustrated because her daughter kept running away looking at something else. Finally the daughter came running back her with this card in hand and said, “Mom, look! This is the perfect for Sister Jacobs.” In the card, this amazing little girl wrote that she thinks about me a lot, love me, and prays that I will get better every day. Wow!

Tears are running down my face as I think about this sweet child and her kind act to think of me and pray for my recovery. I don't know why I am so blessed to know such amazing people, both old and young, but I do recognize that their acts of service are a tremendous strength to me every single day.