Just Kookoo: Time to Give Thanks!

Thanksgiving has always been a special time for me. Especially since we live in the United States, we all have so much to be grateful for. God has really blessed our nation in so many ways. Of course our nation was stronger before, but so was the most of the world. I love to visit other places, but I'm glad the USA is my home. And with every prayer, we can hope for a stronger, better future for everyone. As the song goes... "I'm proud to be an American, where at least I know I'm free...". World peace really does sound good to me. ;)

Personally, I'm so thankful for each and every day that God has blessed me with breath! I love the Lord, my family, my friends, my home, my life. Sure, we all have our crosses to bear, but we also have the ability to choose how we all react to our situations. For now, my body is being invaded by cancer. But, with God's help, I plan to be cancer free this Friday. And with the help of radiation next year, that will increase my rate of success.

As in the bible, God allowed Job to suffer the most dreadful tests, but he never lost sight on God's plan for his life. The devil is allowed to test us, but we must remain faithful. God's plan will prevail as long as we stay focused on the prize of eternal life. As I've said before, I am so blessed to be surrounded by so many people who love me enough to come share their time with me. Time is a very precious gift, which we all wish we had more of. I am extremely grateful to each of you! You've helped make my battle more bearable.

It has been six weeks now since my last chemo. I'm still getting rashes and hives, I've caught another cold, I'm getting prepared mentally for my surgery this Friday (I still hate to pack), this gloomy weather is a drag for me... On the brighter side, my hair is starting to grow back now! Overall, I'm still bald, but I have peach fuzz all over. Ironically, I'm allergic to peaches, and oh how I love to eat them (maybe I can next summer)! I have an incredible appetite from all of the vitamins I've been taking for pre-op (oink oink oink), but I'm going to need it. It's a good thing I can rely on God's strength, because I'm running low of my own! My family and close friends are there beside me, pulling me, sometimes dragging me along. Thank you Lord, for all that you have blessed me with!!! May He bless you and your loved ones throughout this Thanksgiving and Christmas seasons! I hope to see you again soon. Holy hugs and kisses to all!!! xoxoxo Berda

Raquel and me.

(Front row: Norma, Purita, myself. Back row: Lourdes, Jill, Joann, Ruth, and Raylene). This is my breast cancer support group on Tuesday nights at the Wellness Community in Redondo Beach. Our facility is proudly rated as #1 in the nation!!! Yippee!!!

Hank and Garrick.

Missy and me.

Olivia and I, with the surfer dude guy!

Handmade and home baked by Kimberly Jung. Looks yummy enough to eat, but it's for decoration purposes only. It's a good thing you gave me that disclosure! hee hee hee