8th July - Every good day

The last two missives sound very sad, so today I want to share our happy moments... and there are many.  When the sun breaks through the clouds, we are truly joyous.

I tell people that we are very lucky. However, the expression on their faces tell me that they think I am putting on a brave front. But we are lucky! How fortunate are we that we are living on a lovely hobby farm, are financially secure, are close to good medical services, and have the support of family and friends. I can focus my energy on sustaining Pat and Pat has no other stresses to have to deal with. We could not have setup ourselves better for this life chapter.

Being in such a good position means that we can savor every good day. Sure Pat has bad days from the chemo, where he is tired, dis-spirited or nauseous. However, he also has good days when he is feeling stronger, has energy and a good appetite.

On those good days, Pat goes to his studio and does art work (he has a list of works he wants to complete). On sunny days, we progress a farm project (our vegie boxes are almost ready). When Pat feels strong, he chops some wood (nothing better on a winter's evening than lounging in front of the wood fire). And his daily exercise routine includes checking in on the sheep and giving the steers a brush.

What we also take great pleasure in is reminiscing about the wonderful things we've done and the people we've met. How fortunate are we to have each other and to have had the opportunity to live such a wonderful life? We have been together for 23 years and have experienced so much. We have countless good days to reflect on.