Katie's BMT Updates

Dear Katie,
Yes, life is not always as we planned, usuallly not as I've experienced it. I've done a lot of fighting it and and a lot of jelousy of other folks who seemed to "have it made" But then I discovered that all is not as it seems. Everyone has their struggles and their struggles are important to them. I learned to enjoy what I have and the road gets smoother and I got more serene on a more regular basis. As John Lennon said "Life is what happens when we're busy making plans"
I always wanted a white picket fence, I've got a wrought iron one-maybe that means I am a little stronger-perhaps? I always wanted to be a Gramdma that was over the river and through the woods. But I am Grandma Barb who is an airplane ride away in Oklahoma or a fasinating long car ride away and who emails her gradnchildren and sends little gifts to stay in touch. Maybe that makes me a more modern Grandma who has wethered the times and changes? It's not what I panned but it's what I've got and that is what I have to work with and I plan to make the best of it.
You are doing the same thing, Katie. You are making the best of a not so perfect situation and doing a good job ot it no matter what you may think. We all have the right to get angry and disapointed at times, but the important thing is that you are centered and come back to reality and deal with it for your good and your family's. So give yourself a big BRAVOO!!! And then go on and really enjoy the good things that come your way such as your outing and time with Zach and Ian.
And guess what? You know more than that woman in the expose who has everything. Your cancer has shown you just how precious life is and how important your friends and family are and you can soar and float in the happy times like she can't because she is clueless.
So smile at the person on the street becuase you have weathered the storm and you know more meaning in life maybe than he'll ever know. YOU GO,GIRL!!!
I had my Pity Party last night becasue I cannot be there in CA with you and try to make it all better. Then I got centered through the help of a friend to remind me that I can communicate with you through modern technology and that is indeed awesome.
So let's both soar in the knowledge that we are centered and enjoy what is ours.
MUCH LOVE,
Mom

The best times in life seem to be
Those that just happen so simply.
No amount of planning can outweigh
The times that just came our way.
You know, the days that people stop by
With the intent to just say "HI".
And then the time lingers so sweetly.
That the day slips by ever so quickly.
You know, the times when you have a specific plan
And you loved one takes you by the hand.
And you talk about what, who cares?
And the day is over as you both share.
You know, when he asks you to take a ride
And you end up every where besides.
And you've touched those you've seen
With your love that you just dropped in.
You know, when the day is ruined by rain
And you spend the time watching John Wayne.
You had forgotten how mcuh you liked the Duke.
And afterall maybe the rain was not just a fluke?
You know, when you planned to clean that room
and found something treasured with that old broom?
Something that brought back flooding memories, may tears
And the day was passed through picture books of the years.
You know, when you wre called in to work on that day off
And you went in even though you wanted to shout.
But someone there needed you that day
In some very special way.
Yes, life has many special and planned times
But treasue those that come untimed.

Hi Katie,

Why *shouldn't* you want more? It's OK to want more! You're human, not a saint, not Pollyana! You have been handling an incredibly hard experience with humor and grace. Wanting more is a reminder that there is more to life -- to your life -- than this experience. You will get beyond the Bone Marrow Transplant experience. Yes, this is your life *right now* but this is not the totality of your life, not my a longshot.

much love,
Charlene

er, not *by* a long shot

Dear Katie,
Whatever I am, I was a Rockin' Grandma this morning during my walk. The Culture Club accompanied me today and we were Groovin' Yeah, way to go , man!!!
Don and I had to fix the screen door because Boots has been climbing on it, especially when I go outside. He does not like to be alone. Then I held Clinic again this morning and Defleaed and Deticked all the cats and dogs, I was gald when the Clinic was closed for the day. I ssswish that Defeaing and Deticking stuff lasted more than a month.
Well, got to get your package sealed up sp I can send some things tomorrow to you, Grandma, and Maizie and Zoe.
Talk with you soon.
Love,
Mom

Dear Katie,
Hope that you had a good week-end. It is a beautiful day here today and I am going to repot the palnts that Don gave me and then probably wash the truck as it really needs it.
I still have to mark the pictures that I printed up for you. So I probably won't get the package sent until Wednesday when I go to Stillwater.
Talk with you soon. I know you have clinic today and I pray that the numbers are good.
Love,
Mom