Sandra, one of Lois' many high school friends, lived every moment to the fullest. She had a promising life ahead of her; lots of friends, a career. Then sometime, not long after high school, she came down with diabetes; but she pushed it off - not diabetes, or anything else, was going to slow her down and for many years, it didn't. She worked hard, she loved hard, and she remained full of life and surprises for all who knew her. And all who knew her, loved her dearly.
After high school, Lois and Sandra communicated enough so their bond was never broken. And as the years progressed, her diabetes became more difficult to handle: she carried the classic symptoms, but her spirit always did its best to protect her heart. She was a fiercely spiritual person, so because of that, and some forty years ago, Lois bought her a pair of praying hands.
Ater we moved back to the tri-cities, in 2003, Sandy re-entered our lives. We would pick her up and bring her over for dinner. We learned she had a huge collection of angels. It was fun to visit with her again, and though it was obvious her body was weak, frail even; it was good to see that spirit still vibrant and kickin'.
Then about a year ago, God played his hand and released Sandra from her frail and weakened body.
When we got home from chemo today, a package addressed to Lois, from Patty, Sandra's sister, was waiting on the doorstep. Inside she found the pink hat with the golden angel pin, that once belonged to Sandra, attached. We thought it only fitting to take a picture of Lois wearing the hat alongside the praying hands on our mantel - the ones returned to Lois by Patty, after Sandra's passing.
We were both touched by the gift and the sentiment.
Sandra, you know "Loisann" and I think of you often - you will always rest comfortably within our hearts.
Thank you, Patty, for the lovely gift!
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Nine down; three to go!!
The picture above was taken only half an hour after getting home from her ninth chemotherapy session. Wish I looked that good, hat or not!
Chemo went well, her blood counts are good. White blood cells above the minimum, platelets way above the minimum, red blood cells slightly below, but up from last week due to the procrit injection. This is all good!
We're going to Bellingham this weekend for a wedding. If all of you show up there and we can celebrate together. The parents are dear friends of ours from Sequim (our next door neighbors) and I know they wouldn't mind at all. Right Debbie?
Jim
2 comments:
What a nice post. We think of you two often. Elaine is in Vermont vacationing but I will read this to her when she returns. Keep strong!!!
Did they ALL come? We missed some I think!
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