Be the Good

To be honest, this week has been awful. I usually describe my days by saying its been a good day, meaning I felt well enough to shower, get ready and do a few simple tasks around the house like dishes. Or a rough day, meaning I can lay around feeling exhausted, sometimes sleep and get nothing done. Most weeks I have a few rough days followed by a few good days. I have to be careful on good days, because it is very easy for me to over do it. 

As I mentioned earlier this last week has been ROUGH. I started the week in the ER with chest pains and shortness of breath on Monday, started a chest cold on Tuesday, Wednesday was my cardiac catheteriazation, Thursday was full of pain from the heart cath and coughing, and Friday included a visit to the urgent care to confirm my cough is a virus. 

Tis the season for colds. Now I have the honor and privilege of adding this beautiful accessory to my “out of the house” wardrobe to hopefully avoid further illnesses. Try not to be jealous. 

I’m not writing this to gain sympathy, but to share the good that I have seen this past week, actually the past couple months. I’ve had to humble myself and accept the help I need for my family and myself. My ward/neighborhood family has been amazing. I have no words to explain my gratitude and I will never be able to repay these dear friends.

I’ve had so much comfort knowing that I have friends who will maintain relationships with Zoe no matter what my outcome may be. The two friends pictured below have become grandmothers to Zoe. 

Grandma Tracy taking Zoe riding. 

Grandma Ali taking Zoe to the Pumpkin Ragatta. 

I love that before church starts, Zoe walks around visiting and receiving huges from so many sisters in our ward who love and care for her. That is exactly what our Heavenly Father wants from us. To love each other with a Christ like love. 

I cannot believe how many meals have showed up at our door. In fact, I’ve lost count. My visiting teachers have showed up with treats I’ve been craving and offering help on tasks such as pulling weeds without being asked. Friends and neighbors have stopped at my house because they had a some “spare time” and wanted to help me with house work. Others have provided play dates for Zoe. Many have stopped by just to visit. I’ve received several texts and phone calls checking in on me and my family. I’m so comforted knowing I have a list of names of friends waiting and willing to run errands with me or for me. 

Honestly, how can my family and I not feel the love of our friends and our Savior? I am beyond blessed and at times do not feel that I deserve so much. 

There was a wonderful article in the Deseret News that talked about visiting teaching. Here are a couple quotes that spoke to how I’ve felt by  my neighbors and friends. 

“...minister as the Savior would minister.”

“When we pray for inspiration to know how to serve her and help her strengthen her faith, ‘the angels cannot be restrained from being [our] associates.’”

Even my dentist’s office has sent a card. Whose dentist does that? That’s right, MINE!

Below are a few samples of the sweet texts and messages I’ve received on a daily basis. I love how they are full of encouragement and love. Some of them even make me laugh, which is one my favorite things to do. 

Sandra bless your heart! (Pun intended) I think your news is great! There is much to give hope there. You are a trooper, but then we all know that already.

​I don't even know how to respond. I just have to have faith that all things will work together for your good. You are a fantastic person who is doing all she can. Thanks for being such a great example of optimism, courage and strength. May I come for an hour today and do some housework for you? 

​Wow. Let's go try living in Florida Nov-March and see if that helps. I'll go with you!!! And how could you not qualify for a transplant?! You're the most talented person ever!!! Just send a picture of your quilts, your home decor, Zoes hair dos, and your "slamming body", along with a recording of your voice, and I'm sure that'll do. But really, I'm praying for peace in the process and a glimpse of understanding in Heavenly Father's plan for you and your family. Thanks for keeping me in the loop. Love you! 

​My friend. I hope that today has been a wonderful day and that you have felt as loved as you are! I am so grateful to have you as my friend. I love you! 

​You are a hero to me. If only I had half of your courage and happy snappy personality. Prayers always for you and the best outcome. 

I’m surrounded by amazing friends! There is so much goodness in the world. I’ve seen it. Sometimes we just have to look for it when times are tough. My goal is to BE THE GOOD!

I’m off to see my cardiologist today. Hopefully, I hear somethings in regards to Stanford. I'll update you soon.