Update 8/24

This last week has been another one filled with the highest of highs, as well as some pretty awful lows. But if I had to rank it, I would say this was the best I've felt overall for an entire week since I was hospitalized on July 23.

So many visits from sweet friends last week. So many laughs and hugs and stories to share. I walked on the beach each morning, though one morning I wasn't quite able to make it to Access 2, and I had to ask Rick to pick me up where I was.

I recently had to cancel two scheduled trips because I just wasn’t feeling up to travel, and that made me immensely sad. I wondered, “Will I ever get on a plane again?” Travel has been such a big part of my life, and I just didn’t feel ready to give it up yet. But then there is reality. I am slowing down. I can’t do what I did before. Periods of intense pain and fatigue come on without warning.

Psalm 37:4 says, “Take delight in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart.” Maybe for some people New York City doesn’t seem like a gift from God, but, for me, it’s a place I have enjoyed immensely through the years.

I felt so well on Wednesday that I asked Rick to bring me to New York for the weekend. And he did. We've had the best time, despite hours spent in bed here in the hotel yesterday due to uncontrollable pain. But, after 6 hours of pure misery, I was able to get up, resume the day, and we ended up having a great time.

Dinner with an amazing view

I am not a theater person, but I do love Hamilton.

I had to bring my book with me to take a photo like so many friends have sent to me.

Headed home soon with my heart full and more determined than ever to live this out:

I do not know what the days ahead will bring, but I am determined to live them with as much grace and enthusiasm as possible.

My new motto might be: Have wheelchair. Will travel. Where are we off to next?

I’ve recently told friends that when I pass, I hope someone will say, “What? Becky’s gone? I thought she was just in ___________ last weekend.” This is my prayer for myself. I hope you’ll pray that with me. I hope to continue to be “me” until the very end.