Mr. LBB and I woke up at the crack of dawn Monday morning to head to Loma Linda to meet with the oncologist. Boo spent the night with her grandparents and asked us to take care of her Ugly Doll OX. I took him along and took photos of him all over Loma Linda. (the last time I was asked to take care of her baby doll I left her in the car all day and she almost melted……and Boo said I was a horrible babysitter).
Okay, okay…..I know, so how did the day go already!?
Well, I felt awesome Monday morning and popped out of bed at 5:30am. I didn’t even need to take any pain medicine for the trip.
We met with my new oncologist. He confirmed what my doctor in the desert suspected: I had an abnormal pregnancy/molar pregnancy and the cancerous cells spread to my lungs and liver. I’ll spare you the graphic details about my uterus. They scheduled me for the first available surgery on Friday. After the surgery, everything will be sent to the pathologist and then they’ll be able to tell what type of chemotherapy I’ll have to undergo. It was a little hard discussing whether we wanted to have more children but the outlook is that I should be able to.
After the surgery was scheduled and blood work was done, a pre-op interview was scheduled for 3 hours later. If you know me well, you know I am annoyingly efficient so the first thing I thought was: why the heck to I have to be interviewed, I just did this 12 weeks ago. Did the surgery procedures change?
Thought #2: We can make it to L.A. and back in 2 hours if we hurry! (to pick up a fabric order I had on hold)……so we jumped in the car and drove to L.A.
First stop: Chic-Fil-A with OX
I made Brett take a detour so I could show him all the news truck chaos at Michael Jackson’s Doctor Trial. Here’s OX in front of Court TV:
Finally, made it to the fabric place. OX doesn’t want you to be sorry of his one-eye……that one-eye has super powers:
Thank you for all the words of faith and encouragement. It’s meant the world and my family and I have read every single comment. I’m exhausted and in bed watching Secretariat with Boo for the 5,000th time.
XOXO,
Ash
As aside note: I never had a chance to post the post just written Monday night! Later Monday night I had to be rushed to the ER for severe abdominal pain. I was admitted in the ER and they determined from some new CT scans and ultrasound that the tumor in my uterus had expanded out the other side (like an alien invader!) and there was fluid in my abdomen….but they didn’t know if the fluid was from the uterus or from something else. My in-laws Barry and Gale met us at the hospital. Barry is an angel…seriously. He’s a doctor there and helped coordinate everything, explaining medical history and hooking up my other doctors with the ER doctor. Also angels: our friend Todd and Jodi who were at our house THREE minutes after Brett called them to watch Sienna.
So what do we do in the ER room to pass the time? Take photos of course. Eisenhower gives you a gazillion bracelets and they all fit into this old school label maker…..it makes me think of crafting every time they print one:
After my dilaudid kicked in….I wasn’t feeling a thing:
My inlaws gave me the best gift ever and upgraded my room as I was admitted to the new Renker VIP building. I’ll never be the same after this. It was nicer than my house…..and they had L’Occitane toiletries in the bathroom….woot woot!
What are the odds that Lisa and her daughter would be at the hospital at the same time that I was? Crazy. Little Elle was admitted for croup the night before. Lisa came down to visit me for a bit. I told her she needed to come and see the “mother-of-all” hospital suites and grab something from the mini-bar since I wasn’t allowed to eat or drink anything! Lisa sent me back a photo of Elle in her tiny room…..I was feeling a little guilty after that and wished we could have been roomies! She looks so much cuter than I do in my hospital bed:
First thing Tuesday morning I was transferred to Loma Linda by ambulance for observation. It was my first time in an ambulance….so you know I had to take my iPhone with me for a photo op. You can see the windmills in the back as we left Palm Springs:
At Loma Linda I was admitted and I guess Brett or Gale took this photo while I was resting. Our good friends (and Sienna’s godparents) Jackie and Derek picked up Sienna from school with their daughter and kept her for the night…..Boo is a trooper and was so excited when she learned she would be going home with them and that Miss Lisa had already packed her a suitcase.
Last night when they decided to keep the surgery scheduled for Friday I was pretty frustrated, but the doctor wouldn’t have his whole team with him if I was an add-on to the surgery day. Friday is the day they will be the most prepared and they can check out the abdomen too to see what’s going on. The second I knew I wasn’t having surgery I started asking to be discharged….I think they thought I was crazy at 12am trying to get “out of jail.” The next morning they confirmed that I was stabilized and pain management at home would be okay. I wanted to get out of there so bad I unhooked all the machines myself. I think it might have been the fastest discharge on earth…..
I kept chuckling on the way home about how chaotic my night was at Loma Linda. My roommate was about my age and had been there a week for surgery. In the middle of the night it seemed like all of our machine alarms were going off all at once. They had my IV in the crook of my arm and I kept crimping it when I slept…..which would set off the alarm. I couldn’t get the nurses attention. I accidentally ripped a plug apart trying to move to the restroom and then that set off another alarm and I was tangled in a sea of IV cords.
So now I’m home! Everyone has been so supportive and helpful and I feel so out of my element. I’ve never been in a place where I needed so much help and assistance. I feel so lucky that I have such wonderful friends and family that are so encouraging. Everyone has been pitching in with Boo, meals, etc and my house looks like a florist shop. I’m so humbled.
So I’ll be hanging out at home until Friday for surgery. I’ve never looked so forward to surgery in my life….it will be like Christmas for me if that makes sense. Put me under, remove the bad stuff, and figure out what it all is so I can get chemo started asap.
My mom is flying out tomorrow too….so excited.
I love you all! Thanks for reading…..I know many of you are curious as to what’s been going on and I’m trying to remember as much as I can.
XOXO,
Ash
P.S. Mr. LBB is a trooper. I’ve insisted that he go home every night to sleep in our comfy bed so he can come back the next morning….I know he doesn’t want to but it’s the best thing. I joke with him “I’ll text you if I go into shock or something.” He’s been juggling Boo, our friends and family and me too. He doesn’t get annoyed when I scold him for not using his knuckle to press the elevator button (just one of my many suggestions I made up to prevent the spread of germs in our house….hopefully Boo doesn’t grow up to be Howard Hughes.) He tries his best to pack my clothes when I ask him to….and he actually did a pretty good job!
I have been thinking about you and praying. I am so sorry that you were in the hospital. I am so glad you are surrounded by so many awesome friends and family. I will be thinking about you on Friday.
xoxoxoxoxoxox
Jen
I am sorry to hear that. I will be praying for a quick recovery.
Praying for you!! You rock hardcore momma!! XOXO!!
Praying for you! I love your positive attitude and fun spirit 🙂 Hugs from Tennessee…
I will keep you and your family in my prayers. I love how you stay positive through all of what’s going on! And I bet Boo loved that Ox got to see all those places!! LOL 🙂
It is amazing to me how strong and cheerful you are through all of this!
I hope that if I am ever in as testing a situation as you are that I can act with the grace and poise that you do.
I am thinking of you and your family- I hope that they get all that nasty stuff out of your body quickly and you have an easy and fast recover!
Oh my goodness! My computer has been out getting fixed. It’s shocking to get back on and see this. I’m so sorry. I will be praying for you. You have had a tough year, probably more than you share with us, but at least you know that by sharing you have a lot of people praying for you.
My goodness, my goodness… I have to say I love how you’ve photo documented this really emotional and hard situation. Keep your bright attitude Ashley, I send you positive prayers and thoughts every day from NJ 🙂
Oh how awful! I really hope the surgery goes well and that you are back to your normal, crazily energetic self soon. You are in my thoughts and prayers for a healthy and speedy recovery.
My thoughts and prayers are going your way. God Bless.
You’re the TROOPER!!!!! Even in these hard times you are a joy to be “around”! God bless you 🙂
You are such a trooper Ashley! I would have fell to pieces by now!!! Keep powering along, we are all behind you! Carolyn xx
Everynight I pray for you:) Many good vibes your way friend…
Been waiting to hear how you and Elle were doing this week.
Sounds super stressful 🙁
I had to stop halfway through your post because my eyes were tear-ing up so much reading about all this. When things are SO unexpected like this was I just can’t begin to imagine the toll it is taking on everyone. For crying out loud, we’re just blog friends and I have thought about you more this week than my own husband who is down training troops to be deployed in TX for 3 weeks….
Does Sienna know what’s going on at all?
prayers as always
I was stunned to learn about your ailment and am sending all kinds of positive vibes and prayers your way that your surgery and treatment thereafter go smoothly. I truly hope you will be back on your feet soon for your sweet Boo and hubby that need you so much! And a bit for the blog world that would be such a lesser place without your class and great strength. You are a real lady and handling this terrible year with a lot of grace. Lots of love from MD
Caroline
Oh my goodness! I’m so sorry! I will keep you in my prayers!!
Ashley I love how positive you are staying through all of this – you truly are super woman. I will keep praying for you and your family!
You don’t know me but I’ve been following your blog a little while, I love it. Just wanted you to know that I am praying for you. Praying for complete healing!! Maria from Seattle area 🙂
I’m keeping you in my thoughts, and praying for a speedy recovery for you! The thing you said about using your knuckles to press public buttons made me smile – that’s exactly what my husband has been trying to teach me for the past six years! 🙂
Thank you for writing about your week. I am sure it is hard going through all this. You are such a trooper! I have been and will be praying for you! Wish I could speed up the clock to friday for you. 🙂
Amber
Wow, what a week. I’ll keep praying for you and yours. Your strength is awe-inspiring. Much love!
So Ashley….did you take my advice….and score ya an extra jello cup????? 🙂
My, what a tumultuous week you’ve had so far! Hoping everything goes smoothly on Friday. 🙂
I’m thinking of you. Hugs.
I just wanted to say thanks for posting everything that is going on with you. I am a nurse, who does not take very good care of herself. I read your story, and immediately got on the phone for a physical. It has been three years. My mother had cervical cancer over 20 years ago, so needless to say I know better. So thanks, and I hope for the best for you and your family.
You are amazing. Bet you hear that a lot, but take it from a total stranger, you are pretty awesome! Your faith, upbeat attitude and humor are going to see you through this. So sorry you are going through it at all, but know that your attitude is an inspiration to everyone who reads your blog. I have full faith you are going to be just fine and that the Lord has a bigger purpose for all of this. Maybe it’s so you can witness to the power of positive living, to choosing joy, to being an example of how we ALL should be. No matter the purpose for all of this, you will live your way into the answer and sharing this journey is only showing others how we too can live better. You are in my prayers!!! Looking forward to a good update on Friday.
Ashley!!!
Oh I have been thinking of you so much! I love your entourage as you have described them! Brett and his knuckles just crack me up! God bless your awesome heart. I have a few more flowers I’ll be adding to your space…..but they won’t need water ; ) -xo!!!! Team Corfee is praying for you.
I can’t even imagine the pain that you are going through. My cancer diagnosis came after some swelling, and no pain what so ever. My daughter, on the other hand is another story. We can only imagine the pain that she had experienced before her diagnosis, as her scans showed an abdomen completely filled with tumors (to the point where her kidneys were in her pelvis). But more importantly, after a crazy year, and tons of doctors appointments and more chemical intervention than we could have ever imagined, I am in remission, and Saoirse has no evidence of disease! (she will still be undergoing treatment for the next 2 or 3 years to keep her in remission.) Chemo may not be fun, but my little girl has been such an inspiration to me. She has bounced back from every treatment and every set back, and has never felt sorry for herself. The beginning is the worst, but stay positive and keep your hands busy! Sending lots of hugs and happy thoughts from our cancer fighting family. Keep on creating!
~Kezia
(newmomnewcancer.blogspot.com)
Your spirit is WONDERFUL! Keep it up- from one momma that has been through this same journey….it makes ALL the diference. You are being held up by a MIGHTY GOD- rest in His PERFECT arms!! ((HUGS)) to you and yours…and LOTS of prayers!!
I so admire your strength and courage. I am so impressed and think you have an amazing attitude. Just be sure to let yourself feel sad if you need to!! We are all “here” if you need a shoulder!! You are in my prayers for a speedy treatment and recovery.
Praying for a quick recovery and that they can get all the bad stuff out. good luck.
Praying for you and your family!
I am usually a silent follower but I just have to post again…You have such a positive outlook on everything Ashley-I am so sorry for everything you have endured and are preparing to go through…who would think about snapping pics and sharing with their bloggie friends? You-that’s who, and that makes you a very extraordinary person.
So glad you are surrounded by people like yourself – kind, generous, and caring.
Many prayers your way!
Love you Ashley. Kept thinking today about the
puzzle we used to do when you were little. We would pat the puppy when that piece was in place. This was at Papas & Marge’s .
Much love, Aunt. Sharon
I have been thinking about you and praying. It is wonderful to hear that you are surrounded by so many awesome friends and family members. I know all of your bloggy friends are wishing you the best! I will be thinking about you on Friday.
((Hugs!))
Michelle
PS, It made me smile to read that you think of crafting every time the hospital prints a bracelet, lol, you are a true crafty-allstar! 😉
I am praying for you Ashley! I hope you kick this in the butt…keep up that positive attitude!
Wow, Ashley, you have had a rough week! I admire your positivity through all of this. I don’t know if I could be that positive..I have to many thoughts in my head, that I would be stressing every single moment. You are very brave. And I know that you will make it out of this. Your family and friends are very supportive, you very lucky to have them, and they are very lucky to have you in their lives! God bless, and I hope you start feeling better! 🙂
You have been in my thoughts. loma Linda is our medical center as well. You are in good hands. You and your family are truly inspirational.
Ashley – you, your family and friends are all in my prayers. You are inspiring us all to look at the blessings in our lives and not sweat the small (or big) stuff – God is driving this boat! You really are a special woman. Hugs and prayers to you!
Praying for you! If you need some extra TLC at Loma Linda you just let me know and I’ll send my friends up there to check on you! I recently had an ER visit myself and it was a nightmare. So strange being a patient in my world…I didn’t like it much. They put an IV in the bend of my arm and one in my other hand….the pump alarms kept sounded everytime I would bend my arm. The hubs loved all the alarm sounds. I was in so much pain I don’t remember them….ha!
Anyway, hang in there. Prayin for you. It’s amazing what family and friends will do for you when you can’t do for yourself.
God is good all the time.
Thought about you and your family all weekend (which felt kinda silly since I’ve never met you)… but– it is a testament to the amazing person you are and the community you’ve created by candidly sharing your creativity and enthusiasm through Lil Blue Boo. Keep up your positivity but don’t get too hard on yourself if you need to break down a bit every now and then, too. I am praying for you from Texas!
Hi Ashley. My prayers to you my darling. I’m with you , just get in there and get that thing out , then you can concentrate on getting well again. All my love to you , Delia , Perth , Australia xoxoxoxoxo 🙂 🙂 🙂
Ashley,
My prayers are with you, your family, and your medical team. Isn’t it amazing how much we can get through when we need too? Your positive attitude is wonderful and I’m sure many of your readers, myself included, soak it up to use at a later time if we find ourselves in a position such as yours. Let your friends and family do everything that they can for you, because I’m sure if the positions were reversed you would be doing for them.
Sandy
Wow… what a week. I’ve been there, done that – with the cancer, the dilaudid, the ambulance, etc. Pretty overwhelming, huh? I love that you have kept your sense of humor about it all! Wishing you the best for a safe surgery and quick recovery. I’ll put my daughter in an LBB dress on Friday as a reminder to send prayers to you all day!
You are a beautiful and brave chick! You have been through so much and I am praying for you! It touches my heart how loving you are and thinking of lil boo…taking the time to take pictures of her monster…your such a good mommy! Working in a stop to pick up fabric reminds me of my mom…she has a fabric shop and works six days a week but when she goes to the warehouse to pick up fabric in Nashville she always stops at my house for a potty break on her way back to her house…I know she loves me…lol…only a true crafter would know the call that a piece of fabric has! Praying Praying Praying for you! You will get better!
Oh my, I had no idea this was going on. Sending much love and healthy vibes your way to get through the rest of the week and especially Friday. big hugs from Austin1
Hello Brave Girl. Your attitude is amazing. Keep it up. You’re doing great! Just as a gentle word of encouragement…my Mom experienced similar conditions as you are and went on to have 3 healthy strong children…so while there are no guarantees there is ALWAYS hope.
Jesus said, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you; not as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” John 14:27
You are one inspirational and amazing lady. Keep your chin up and stay positive and there is no way you won’t beat this. Keeping you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.
Best wishes for your surgery. I’ve enjoyed your blog for some time now and I’ll be thinking of you.
Praying for you Ashley. Hoping things go smoothly on Friday. Tell Boo and Mr. LBB we’re thinking of them too!
I have been following your story and am praying for you and your family. Thank you for your candid updates, it gives all of us a look into exactly what you are going through. Hugs!
You have been through SO much these last few months and weeks! I will be thinking of you on friday and just know all our “Blogging” friends are thinking of you and praying for you.
WOW…. Prayers and well wishes are heading out from Michigan for you and your Family…. I did not know this was going on with you. I can see you are a very Strong person with a great support system. My prayers will be with you on Friday. Its great that you can share this with all of us. We are all here for you if only to listen and pray. Keep your Attitude and Get back to us when your feeling up to it.
First of all, I would hope to be half as optimistic as you are if I ever have to go through anything like you are now. You positive attitude is amazing. Thanks for sharing with us strangers. Sending great, brave, strong thoughts your way.
Good Luck on Friday…you’ll continue to be in my prayers! 🙂
My prayers go out to you and your family. I love your attitude and it will serve you well. Our family friend had a rare cancer (Ewing sarcoma) and was treated at Loma Linda. She is now 21 years of age and 4 years cancer free. The people at Loma Linda were excellent. May I ask why you chose Loma Linda? My Mom was just told she has Uterine Cancer and the doctors here say they can’t help her. I am looking for other options.
We will be saying special prayers for you and your family on Friday. God bless you!
I am praying for you that everything goes well. I’ve been following your blog long enough that you feel like a sister – and as a sister in Christ, you are in my heart tonight.
Rhonda @ home.made.
Ashley,
Thank you for sharing with us -even when you don’t have to do it. I love your attitude and positivism -I think is a reflection of your faith. I will continue to pray for you and also for your doctors for wisdom to make the best decisions.
I’ll be thinking of you on Friday (my Saturday). And praying for a quick recovery.
P.S. Can’t believe you detoured for the fabrics.
Ashely,
You are in my prayers… I am amazed at what a great attitude you had though all of this and even took pictures. I am glad that you are OK and I will be praying for you and your family on Friday! I am also so glad to hear that you mom is coming… nothing is better than your mom when you are not feeling well!
Fawnda
Praying, praying, praying for you Ash! You and Lisa both have my number if you need anything at all!
PRAYING <3
Continuing to pray.
I’m so sorry!!!! prayers to you and your family! I hope surgery is the key and that chemo does the trick!
I am so sorry to hear that you have been going through all of this! I love that you have such a positive attitude about everything. I am praying for a speedy recovery for you, and I am so glad that you are being so well taken care of.
I will keep you and all of your family in my thoughts and prayers.
What a big thing! I don’t even know what else to say, how lame is that? But my heart goes out to you and so will my prayers. Best wishes in all that lies ahead.
I think I’m in love with you!! You are so amazingly positive and funny and you can squeeze in a quick trip to the fabric district between hospital trips! Will you marry me?? You are a superhero!! Good luck on Friday. I’ve been thinking about you all week and will be sending positive thoughts and prayers your way. Hugs to you and your amazing family.
Still amazed at your spirit Ashley, good for you! Keeping you in my prayers.
I so admire your attitude and spirit about what you are going through. What a testament to the person that you are! Good luck on Friday, I will be anxious to hear how things go.
I’ve been thinking about you non-stop this week. Your positive attitude never ceases to amaze me! Good luck with the surgery on Friday – I hope that it is successful and that you are on your way to recovery as soon as possible.
Wow! I’m sorry you are going through all of this. I can’t imagine. I was an EMT for a little bit, and I’m back in school for nursing (not in nursing school yet – I apply in feb). I learned about molar pregnancies thanks to the schooling I’ve had so far. When I had a miscarriage a couple years ago I was a little scared that would happen to me. Thankfully it didn’t… so I can only speculate what life has been like for you these past weeks.
My best wishes and good thoughts and hopes are being sent your way. I hope Friday gets here fast for you. And that the test results come quickly. Waiting is one of the hardest things to do in tough situations so I will keep my fingers crossed that your wait is as short as humanly possible.
lots of prayers for you and your family! you’ll get through this! God will take you through! :o)
I love your attitude and sense of humor through this hard time. I’ve never commented on your posts, but I read your blog almost daily. I’ve always been inspired by your energy and creativity, and today is no different!
In a very hard time in my life, my mantra was the psalm “This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it.”
Take care sweet girl… oxoxo
Continuing to pray for you Ashley. You’ve been on my mind a lot lately and prayers follow those thoughts. God speed your healing! Love from Alabama!
Good luck! Your positive attitude rocks!!! x
you have been in my mind and prayers! 🙂 i have been sending you healing energy as well! 🙂 despite all you have going on, i’m so glad to get an update from you!
i am sooo happy that you have such a supportive network around you of loving family and friends. and that boo…what a trooper she is!!!
your husband is precious. i’m so glad that he is there for you!
you are such an inspiration!
wishing you the best this friday! (((hugs)))!
much aloha to you!
What an unexpected series of events when your life was already so full! I found treatment for breast cancer easier than expected in some ways (chemotherapy) but still life changing. But I’m 65 and you have youth, a body healthy for the operation and therapy, loving family and friends for support, and an amazing attitude. I’ll pray for a good outcome – you have everything else you need for a successful outcome.
I found this tonight, by accident, but of course, there are none. I’m 70, my DH is 63, and just yesterday was told his job was over. We have been in shock and
worried about our future. I had been reading your wonderful piece on your parents, then read about you and found so many things I identify with, and then I read your comments about your diagnosis and how you and your family are handling it. I kept saying, “Look at this beautiful woman” and she’s amazing. Tonight when I go to sleep, I will be thinking of you and how strong you are and be more able to turn our small problems over to the Higher Power. Your generosity and cleverness and love of life show through, may it all turn out well, the world is lucky to have you and I cannot thank you enough for sharing your story.
One day to go!!!!! 🙂
I’m glad you have such family and friends around you. They are precious!
Hugs with all my heart! Don’t give up!!!
Roberta
Praying your surgery goes well, praying you can be kept comfortable until then, praying they give you the exact Chemo that you need, praying Chemo goes smoothly, praying Boo is able to look at this as an adventure and not get too worried about you… let’s just say I’m praying a lot for you. What a comfort it must be to know you have such great family and friends to help carry you through. Thank you for sharing your faith with so many. May the Lord shine right through you for all to see and His peace fill you.
Constantly praying for you Ashley and have asked my family members to do so as well! You are such an amazing lady!!! You will kick this in the behind!! You are our Hero!!!! 🙂 Let Friday get here, find out what you need, get it done and taken care of! Like you say… that’s how you roll…… You are a fighter! You have soooooo many behind, beside, in front and all around you! We all love you Ashley!
Girl, you amaze me, inspire me, and remind me that life is precious and to keep on keeping on. I am lifting you up in prayer to our Heavenly Father- for strength, for peace, and for healing in his name. Take care dear one. Sending prayers from the woods of PA 🙂
Ash,
We have never met but I knew alot about you and your family because your Dad was a good friend of mine. I own a golf course in Florida and he spent a lot of time with me working on his game, talking golf and talking about his family. I know all this is not easy but I know he’s right there watching over you because that was just his way. He was always helping me fix any problems that I had. I’ll say alittle prayer for you every day but I know you’ll be fine because he wouldn’t have it any other way. Good luck and I’ll check in soon. Brian Symonds
“Gute Besserung”!
Greetings from Hamburg, Germany!
I adore your blog, but have never commented….sorry about that, for the record, I think your clothing line is absolutely adorable, and have had lots of fun doing some of your projects! After reading this post, I just want to say that your attitude is remarkable, and that I’m sending lots of healthy thoughts and prayers your way. I hope your surgery goes smoothly, and you get wonderful results!
I’ve been thinking about you everyday since I heard the news. Hang in there Ash. Your optimistic and positive attitude is something I need to adapt for sure. I’m anxious to hear about how the surgery goes and what comes next. My thoughts and prayers are will you. Thank you for being such a strong example of hope and continuing to be an inspiration!
You rock! I am a new reader and this post is just so positive in spite of the problems you are going through. Gives us all a reminder that the bad day you think you are having is not so bad. Thank you! And God bless!
Hurray for Chic-Fil-A, supportive in-laws, awesome friends, wonderful husbands, and inspiring attitudes. I hope you can feel how you’re being lifted up by so many prayers right now. You are not far from our thoughts!
Thanks for sharing this with everyone! I admit I have been curious….or maybe I’m just nosy,lol? I am praying for you…really, not just saying it. I understand what you mean by “being out of your element” because I too am like that…I really have a hard time asking for help. Sounds like you have a wonderful and supportive family and I gotta say what a blessing to have a father-in-law doctor at a time like this! Praying your surgery goes well and that you will get more answers as soon as they able to look at what is going on (; P.S. “Ox” is a cutie! did you make him?
Good luck tomorrow, I’ll be thinking of you!
Praying that your surgery is a great success, and they find the perfect treatments for you. So glad to heard you have such great support! We love you Ashley <3
Ashley, I’m so sorry that you are experiencing such turmoil. It is obvious that you are in God’s hands and are surrounded by love everywhere you turn. Your positive attitude and encouraging spirit are an incredible example to all of us. Thank you for sharing such a personal and challening story. You and yours are in our prayers.
xoxox
Big hugs to you and your family. I say a prayer for you every time I read your blog.
i was actually telling my husband about you the other night before we went to sleep. i told him to read your courage and your strength really gave me inspiration to live my life to the fullest with no fears. i pray for a speedy recovery for you!
i just found your blog a few days ago and you have touched my heart. I have your same attitude about trusting that God is ABLE and not unaware of what is going on in our lives. I mean if He took the time to number the hairs on our head I think He knows what’s going on and is More than Able to carry us through WHATEVER. your Dad’s “Choose Life” philosophy is also something I’m considering having it tattooed on me somewhere…like maybe my forehead, and I don’t have any tatoos! Just being conscious of this is empowering…I am adopting it and I am preaching it!
I will be praying for a successful surgery Friday and a speedy recovery.
You have been in my thoughts and prayers. You are incredibly strong and amazing. I don’t think I would react to all of this in the same positive way you have. Thank you for sharing your story with us.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family Ashley. I will be thinking and praying for you tomorrow I’m sure your surgery will go smoothly.
Hugs to you.
ASHLEY, I HAVE BEEN WONDERING ABOUT YOU AND AM SO GLAD YOU ARE IN SUCH GOOD CARE. LET EVERYONE TAKE CARE OF YOU. DON’T TRY TO DO EVERYTHING YOURSELF. YOU WILL RECEIVE A BLESSING AND THE PERSON GIVING WILL RECEIVE A BLESSING. IT WILL MEAN SO MUCH TO YOU DOWN THE ROAD! LITTLE BOO WILL BE FINE AND WILL THINK OF THIS AS AN ADVENTURE, AS SHE WON’T KNOW ENOUGH TO BE WORRIED. YOU WILL BE SURPRISED AT HOW RESILIENT SHE IS! I WILL BE THINKING OF YOU AND PRAYING FOR YOU. SO GLAD YOUR MOM IS ON HER WAY!
TOMORROW, JUST GO TO SLEEP AND WAKE UP IN THE RECOVERY ROOM, KNOWING THAT GOD HAS HIS HAND ON YOU. IN YOUR “JESUS CALLING” BOOK FOR TODAY, IT STATES, “DO NOT BE ANXIOUS ABOUT THE WEAKNESS OF YOUR BODY. INSTEAD, VIEW IT AS THE PRELUDE TO MY ENERGY’S INFUSION INTO YOUR BEING.” SO, BEING ANXIOUS FOR NOTHING IS REALLY DIFFICULT, BUT THE LORD HAS YOU IN HIS HANDS!
Best wishes for a full recovery – stay creative!
You are such an inspiration! Loved all the photos of Ox. Prayers and healing thoughts.
You are amazing! Sending lots of love your way from TX. I have never met you, but my thoughts continue to be with you. You are a true inspiration.
P.S. I love all your humor and photos and positive outlook. My daughter loves Ugly Dolls too! Sending love to Sienna and Mr. LBB too! 🙂
Keeping you in my prayers.
You are in our thoughts and prayers here in South Africa. We all think you are remarkable and so courageous…all the very best for tomorrow and for post op recovery.
Almost in tears. This is too much. Praying for you.
Wow- what an ordeal!!!! I will be praying for you and your family- I am so thankful for you that you have such an amazing support system around you! I will be thinking of you on Friday and will be waiting and watching for updates as soon as your able! Hugs to you all!
Praying that you have a recovery as AWESOME as you are! Love from South Carolina. 🙂
I am praying for you and your family. May you be fully restored reallllllly quick.
Debbie
Thank you for the update. You have been in my thoughts and prayers. It sounds like you have wonderful friends and family surrounding you and that makes me so happy. That always makes things better:) You are such a strong and positive person (you would think I know you, ha!) and your outlook on life is a true inspiration to me. Thank you for sharing your story.
I just read this last night at church. I’m so sorry for what you have gone through and are going through this year. I will definetly add you and your family to my prayer list. I wish you a fast and easy recovery and that all the news you receive will be what you want to hear.
Wishing you the best from Mississippi!
We are praying for you , and We are truly amazed of your strenght!!
With lot’s of love 🙂
The Babekian’s
What an encouragement you are! We are praying for you and will continue to do so… hugs from VA-
Anna
Une enorme pensée pour vous et votre famille, comme un juste retour des choses pour tout le plaisir que j’ai a vous lire depuis la France!
Wishing you the best!
Everyone has said almost exactly what I would say. god has poured such a positive spirit into you it’s contagious. I live 2 hrs from you. Seriously I contemplated driving to Loma Linda just to give u a hug. May God bless you real big ! Love Gweny
You are incredibly inspiring! Your family and friends are blessed to have you in their lives! Praying!
I have been praying for you and your family and will continue to do so during and after your surgery tomorrow. I’m not sure I would have such a wonderful attitude if I were going through the same thing, but I pray that I would. You are an inspiration. May God bless you and bring glory through all of this.
Blessings!
Brandi
Again, you are amazing. You’re in my prayers. <3
Lots of prayers for tomorrow. Glad your mom will be there today. Love you very much. Keep the Faith, Sis.
PS I bought Jesus Calling for myself and my friend, Debi. LOVE it!! I don’t look ahead either. 🙂
Kiki
Best wishes for your surgery. Thoughts and prayers for you, your family and your medical staff.
I’m at such a loss for words. I had no idea that you were going through all of this right now (not that I should know…since I just follow your blog and live across the country and all) ;), but I will be praying for you, your husband, your sweet little girlie and for the rest of your friends and family as your navigate your way through this obstacle. I am continually inspired, challenged and blessed by reading your updates. Thank you for giving us all a gift through your creativity and through the warmth of your spirit and words.
I’ll continue to check in– and lift you up from afar!
Hugs from the Hoosier State!!
Prayers for you and your family. So glad you have everyone around you!
Through all this and you’re still hilarious to read! So nice to hear this breath of silliness/ laughter/ sarcasm/ and humility all at once! Don’t be afraid to show us that you’re not always strong though… You’re gonna come out of this a shining star! And LBB will always need you there!!!! You ARE LBB !!!! Xoxo
Praying for a QUICK recovery and that the doctors find ALL of the nasty stuff so there’s no more pain!! Your positive attitude is such an inspiration and will be your best friend for recovery!!
Ashley
You are so inspiring. It is amazing how positive you are. I am taking a cue from you and am going to be more positive in my life. Thank you for being an inspiration to me in everyway!! I am praying for you, your family and all your wonderful friends!
Kelly
Praying for you and my heart is sad that you have to go through this difficult time! Hang in there!
Love, Amber in Oregon
“I alone know the plans I have for you, plans to bring you prosperity and not disaster, plans to bring about the future you hope for.” Jeremiah 29:11 (English Version)
HUgs!! Good luck tomorrow!
I have continued to pray, and will continue to do so, especially thruout the day tomorrow, that the surgeons will have skill and wisdom.
I am so sorry to hear about all this. My thoughts will be with you and especially my prayers. It sounds like you have an amazing and optimistic attitude and are surrounded by helpful people who love you which is so important at a time like this. It also sounds like you realize how special that is. Well you can add me to that list – and my family too. Our prayers are pretty powerful if I do say so myself and many will be for you and yours. Get well soon and may the journey be easier than you expected. Blessings, Tia
I have been thinking and praying about you these past few weeks and will continue to do so, especially for tomorrow. What a blessing in laws are especially those that works at the hospital!!! How wonderful it is that Mr. LBB can pack for you! You have such goodness and love surrounding you. I hope you get some rest tonight!
My daughter (who is 9 and loves your site too) and I have been praying and thinking about you a lot! Thanks for the update, we have been hoping for one.She and I loved the pictures. I am sorry you have had to go through what you have the past few days. We are lifting you up in prayer. All the best to you and your family.
Hi there! I am a good friend of your husband’s sister Jenn. I have followed your blog ever since she told me about it when we taught next to each other. I have fallen in love with crafting and have gained so many wonderful ideas from you! I just want you to know that you are in my prayers and I think of you often in my daily life. It is funny because although I have never met you, like so many of other of your followers, God has used you in my life to show me things. It has helped me grow and be a better mom, wife, friend, and teacher. Thank you for sharing your journey!
~ Kim
….And I love your suggestions for your husband… I too have many for mine and because my hubby works in a ER we are extra careful with all the possible germs he brings home on his clothes and shoes! Grosses me out just thinking of it!
Keep on trusting in His grander plan and you will be back to (a new) normal in no time. You will be in my prayers on Friday and in the days ahead! I hope you have peace of mind throughout tomorrow!
I had so many comments after reading through this and settled on one. A random factoid that I thought might apply… If you don’t already know, which you may.
The 1st floor button in elevators is the germiest. Obvious – most used because everyone has to press the same button to exit the building. Would have never thought of it until it wasnt mentioned though.
Hope you are feeling well. God bless.
I’ve been reading your blog for a while and just wanted to let you know that my family is so sad for what you’ve been going through. My first pregnancy turned out to be molar…and I would not wish that on anyone. I actually started crying when I read your first post where you talked about that. Jesus was my rock during that trial and I am praying that He will strengthen and deepen your reliance on Him during this time. 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 was a huge encouragement to me during that time, and praise God, I have been able to have 3 successful/uneventful pregnancies since my molar. You are in our prayers.
Amazing people are tough people! Blessings and prayers from Singapore! 😉
My prayers have been with you and your family. May God bless you and keep you!
All the best and all our prayers from Germany! You’re such a tough woman, i loop up to you.
Ashley, I just wanted to wish you the VERY BEST. With your wonderful attitude and fighting spirit, I know you can conquer any battle.
Just remember when the load gets too heavy, give it to our Heavenly Father and he will carry it for you.
I look so forward to your posts, your ideas and inspiration.
Hugs,
Nettie
You are in my thoughts and prayers. you are strong. your are positive. you have those who love you at your side. i wouldn’t worry any more if i knew you personally… you go rock this thing!
Praying for and your family in Austin!
Thinking about you and hoping your surgery goes well. Your attitude and positive outlook through all of this is very inspiring!
Oh boy, I thought I had a bad day yesterday as me and my twins are all suffering with a head cold and cough… I feel so bad for moaning considering what you’re going through! You’re doing so well and I can’t believe you’re blogging too. Take good care of yourselves, thinking of you all.
Wendy, Kent, UK
You are in my thoughts and prayers Ashley. Keep rockin on mama, you’ve got this! Love.
You are amazing! Keep up the positive attitude.
Sending lots of healing thoughts from Texas!
xoxo
Lots of hugs and i keep you and your family in my prayers
Michelle
I am so sorry to hear all this suffering in your beautiful life right now! . You are really
an inspiration..stay positive!
Thank you for keeping us updated! I feel like a crazy lady, worried about you and your family. KNOWING that God is taking care of you all. I have told several friends (ones that don’t understand the importance of reading blogs, they think im a nerd! ha, my husband is included in that group!) about you and there are many people praying for you all! Sometimes I totally forget we aren’t “real life friends” and want to call you up to see how you are doing. So Im so glad to hear what is going on so I can know specifics to pray for. Keep your great attitude up and don’t feel too obligated to us that it becomes a burden to your recovery 🙂
Praying for you!
Lots of hugs from Spain.
Keeping you and your family in my thoughts! Your outlook is so inspiring! HUgs from Seattle!
I am praying for a successful surgery for you and a speedy recovery. You are probably the most inspiring person I have ever “met”. Your attitude is so awesome I have no doubt you will be kicking cancers butt!!! Sending so much love and postive energy to you and thinking of you. You are amazing and wonderful. No wonder so many people love you. <3 Joy
You have touched my heart all the way from Australia. I wish you all the very best for a healthy recovery. Your outlook is so inspiring…you and your beautiful family are in my thoughts xxx
you are so inspirational, I so admire your strength, wishing all the best for you, Kat, Australia xoxo
Ashley
You don’t know me I follow your Blog and have for about six months. I am a Realtor and get so many emails but when I see my new posts for Lil Blue Boo I always take the time to read them because I know I will be inspired! I have been so blessed and inspired by your posts.
The story about your Mom and Dad their Love Story made me think of my own parents and gave me an idea to write their story some day. The post about your Dad was probably one of the best things I have ever read. My Dad and Brother both golf so I really want to share that story with them. I cannot begin to tell you how much you bless me with your ideas and inspiration. I painted a sign for a friends nursury with your help on such great tutorials. I always know you are going to share something that will inspire me and encourage me. I have had some trials this year and your Blog has always been something for me to look forward to. You are so real and have a great way of sharing your life, I smile every time I read about you and Boo. I have two daughters and four granddaughters, no boys. Your post with shopping at Old Navy with Boo was so darling! Made me want to bring my camera next time I visit my granddaughters and do a shopping day. With all of that said WOW now in your own personal journey of dealing with fighting to regain your health and I know you will, you are still so positive and willing to share everything. I cannot tell you how much I appreciate the beautiful person you are, and you sharing your family and gifts with the world so openly is amazing. The inspiration you bring to my life and so many others is a gift that I look forward to every day. I willl pray for you and I will ask my daughters to pray for you as they are both great prayer warriers. Thank you for sharing your life and your true self with me and know that you are touching so many people with your amazing strength, darling sense of humor, unbelievable creatativity, and most importantly faith and zest for life. You will be OK and I am so grateful that you have friends and family to support you. Blessings to you and your entire family.
ps- I have a friend that just lost her Dad and they were extremely close, I am sending her a link to your Blog as I know your stories will help her. God Bless
You have been through the ringer!
You are amazing!
My prayers and best thoughts are sent your way!
I can’t believe how fast life can go. I was catching up on my favorite blogs and I was shocked to see your post-op photos. My family and I are sending love, peace, strength, faith, and everything else to you and your family! All the blessings to your fast and safe recovery!
Ive been following your blog for many years now and I wish there was something I could do to help you through this time in your life. I know that God has a plan for all of us just as he has a plan for you, though it seems like a painful one, and at times we dont really understand what that plan is but knowing that God has love for us is truly amazing. I pray for you and your family…..and I pray that with God as your flashlight you will find your way out of this storm.
God Bless you Ashley….
I’ve only just been introduced to your blog, so bear with me that I’m catching up with where you’re at now. before I say anymore, I just am so glad there is another person on this planet who has a bellybutton phobia – I can’t stand them! It was such a humorous yet unpleasant task to inform my doctors of this when I was pregnant and used to squirm whenever they would venture near ‘it’. Tuck, makes me cringe even now. Also, about recommending your husband her his knuckle to press the elevator button ….. another thing I tell my husband and children to do. Well honestly, how many hands have touched those buttons, imagine the germs! ;-). I am praying for you, and thank you for sharing your story.