Hello my friends, it’s been a while since I’ve posted, and it’s been quite an adventure over here. Like a long winding trip through country roads, my recovery journey continues through twists and turns, peaks and valleys. I’m finding ways to enjoy the view whenever I’m graced with a peak. At other times, I’m working hard to find ways to maintain a positive outlook when deep in the long stretches of desolate valleys.

The Valleys

Since my last post I’ve had five teeth extracted – yes, five! – and seven other teeth worked on. Fought infections off with three rounds of antibiotics. Had two heart episodes requiring EKGs, Echocardiograms, X-rays, and an endless withdrawal of blood for labs, labs and more labs. Weekly chiropractor appointments to correct neck and shoulder injuries from the car accident last September. Weekly physical therapy for rotator cuff injury from the car accident and lymphedema that has raged out of control since the accident. I’ve recently been fitted for new compression sleeves and bras, and am awaiting their arrival with unavoidable obstinance.

I’m now cleared to start my next round of infusions scheduled to begin Monday, May 9. I’m told to expect to feel as if I have the flu for a week with bone and joint pain that will last up to two weeks. I’m determined to minimize the toll on my body and have been gearing up with a whole host of activities.

The Peaks

I’m doing yoga and physical therapy exercise daily. I’m three weeks off coffee (for real)! I’m boosting up on vitamins and will undergo vitamin IV infusions after the worst of chemo side effects are gone. I’m meditating more, eating better and avoiding stress like it’s COVID (picture Rocky meets Pretty in Pink montage here).

On the topic of avoiding stress, I could not be more happy about the hiring of my replacement as incoming principal at Bridges Middle School. This means I am now officially the outgoing principal. You may have read about that exciting news already, if not, you can read about it here. As I work towards the reinvention of me with less stress and demands from the outside world and more joy and fulfillment from my inside world, the pathway is finally becoming clear and laying out before me with each step I take. This new ground is lush and green, and I’m eager to see what the future has in store.

Along the journey I’ve made sure to make time to celebrate milestones and to take a moment to appreciate those peaks. I was even lucky enough to fit in an 80s dance party with my soul sisters last month! How fun to dress up and let loose in celebration with the girlfriends I’ve known and loved for 30 years – and who have been by my side through all the valleys.

My journey continues … some roads are paved well, others are bumpy and mired with potholes that shake me to the core. Yet, it’s those rocky roads that help me appreciate even more the beautiful times at the peaks and the continued journey that lies ahead. Indeed every second I have with my family and friends is a gift.

As we head into the Mother’s Day weekend, I’m feeling especially grateful for the comforting love of my own mothers and for the opportunity to be a mother myself. I’m reminded of a short poem I wrote earlier this year for international women’s day that seems quite appropriate (slightly edited) for this annual celebration of mothers.

Mothers

Daughter of two

Mothering four

Teachers and mentors

Friends I adore

Givers of life

Cultural actors of Love

Warrior spirits

I’m in awe of

May will be filled with family and friends to help me through the next lows. As the sun begins to grace us, I’m beginning to feel once again reborn. After months of cloudy rain, my bones are soggy and ready for reprieve. I’m looking forward to a sunny summer journey filled with far more peaks than valleys.

As always, thank you for journeying with me. More to come soon…

With Love and Light, Beven 💗