[Oe List ...] Thinking of you

[Nancy Lanphear]

Dear Friends,
Here I am on a lovely, cool Sunday morning after 30 minutes in a very weedy patch of garden. My energy following surgery 13 days ago is limited so 30 minutes was enough. The surgery went well, the tumor was encapsulated and removed along with the kidney and ureter. No pain and little discomfort which was minimal with ibuprofen, no heavy drugs after the surgery. So I'm on a healing path with no chemo or radiation, only observation. every 6 months for a while. 
My elder son Bob is with me taking his special "Mom Care" time, each of my 3 adult children have  been great caregivers, times to share old an new stories. Of course, my community neighbors step in to fill the gaps til now when I can do most of the own personal care. Pacing is a hard thing to learn?  " I could just do this one thing more" is easy to say, right?  
The Rite of Passage Journeys programs are in full swing for the summer. You might be interested in their new website to be found at "Rite of Passage Journeys.Org". We welcomed back the first program of the season, the Leadership Intensive that is training youth mentors from across the country. The experiences of the trainers are always wonder-filled and deep, so good to sit in circle with them as they shared the wonder and the difficult challenges they've faced and continue to face in an uncharted future. Working with youth brought them together and created a 2 week community, one they will hold forever. As they came together in a community hug, I could tell none of them were ready to let go. Of course, by evening, the group had already dispersed as reality presented itself. Being held as an significant elder in this group and others makes my aging heart soar! Showing up with an open heart and mind along with hugs is what they ask of me. What more could I ask for?  
I having a great time connecting with John Burbidge, reading chapters of a possible book. His experiences are phenomenal, his writing terrific! I'm reminded again what a common name John seems to be when born in Australia. I met only 5 Johns my first week there back in 2014.  And such sweet gentle, kind souls!
My grand son Noah and fiance Carla will be here soon. I'll close by hoping you are finding joy 🦋 in each day as well as the challenges that life brings. Remember you are loved!  ❤️ Nancy