A year ago today...

...is when it all began.  I found my lump on March 22nd of last year.  I thought I'd written about it in my blog somewhere, but can't seem to find it.  Anyhow, here's a recap:  last year at this time, we were car hunting.  We had looked at many cars, but decided on our current car, a Volvo.  In between negotiations, we left and went to Starbucks.  On the way there, I was playing with the chain on my necklace and felt it.  A lump.  I was instantly worried.  When we got to Starbucks, I went into the bathroom for a closer look.  Yep...definitely a lump.  

I told Matt about it and made him feel it.  He guessed it was probably stress from the car stuff.  I don't really remember much else about how I felt that day.  Right after we bought the car, we went to Matt's sister's house for dinner.  Then on to my Mom's and brother's to show them--the car, not the lump.  I remember mentioning it to them and I even believe I said it was cancer.  I joked about it a lot...saying it was cancer.  Many o' people can (unfortunately) testify to that.  I knew it was...I think you just know.  You have that nagging feeling that won't go away.   

I've learned a lot since all of this.  One thing is to live life.  Do the things you want.  You know the one thing I've always to do???  Counsel prisoners.  Spare me the lecture, Mom.  :)  I started the process last summer before my diagnosis.  But on teaching instead of counseling.  The FCI in Fort Worth was looking for Special Education Teachers.  Just as I started the process, I was diagnosed and told to only work part-time.  Well, that never happened, but I did quit my in-home training I did afterschool (per my oncologist) so working at the prison, as well, was a definite no-no.  But not this summer!  I look forward to taking on a new challenge and helping people succeed...which is what my life is intended for.  Now...who wants to go with me???  :)