Hello, blogging friends! It has been such a long time since my last post. I am in the last phase of my doctoral program and I find myself caught up in the world of academia. I just took my comprehensive exams, six hours of writing and nearly twenty some pages. I pray that I pass, but if I don't I am ready to take them again in February.
I did take some time to do something very important to me. My hometown of Marceline (Missouri) has a church called Bethany Baptist that hosts a special salad supper each October in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness. This year I was invited to be their guest speaker. I was so honored. I love my hometown and to give back, in any way I can, makes me so happy!
My speech centered around my own personal experience with my cancer diagnosis, treatment and ongoing experiences with breast cancer. I shared some of my story, including the stories I have from my students at my school. I hope I was able to combine a serious topic with the humorous day-to-day life of an elementary school principal!
The church ladies outdid themselves with a huge variety of salads. At the table was a gift for each person in attendance, a pair of gardening gloves, pink tulip bulbs and a mint! During the dinner there were readings, giveaways and entertainment.
My family came with me. My mom, my cousin, Judy, and my sister, Tammi. My cousin Debbie was there as well. I also saw many friends, many moms-of-friends, and women whom I have never met. By the end of the evening, we all had a common bond.
(My friend, Annie, Judy, my mom, Tiffany)
I was given a wonderful handmade blanket and a pot of flowers. I love them both! Thank you so much for inviting me and allowing me to share my story!
(My blanket, the brown with the polka dots and pink ribbons)
Hi Terri, it was so good to hear from you. I have been concerned and check your blog frequently.
ReplyDeleteI know the ladies enjoyed your talk...what a blessing you were to them, I am sure.
Sending up good thoughts that you pass. You will!
Keep that smile on your pretty face,
Hugs, Barb
Terri, I would've loved to have been there. I know that you gave an awesome speech and that all of you ladies felt connected by evening's end. Sweet gift that blanket is. It's nice to feel special and you are!
ReplyDeleteWhat a gift to find you here this morning ... My nephew's wife, Teri, is also very involved in the breast cancer awareness movement! She is doing well almost two years post-diagnosis / treatment ~ and so are YOU! Good luck with the doctorate. Very, very impressive Terri!
ReplyDeleteThat was so wonderful of you to be their speaker. And good luck with your exams!
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