Sunday, August 10, 2014

When Life Gives You Lemons...



Hi, everyone!

Well, I've been wondering how to write this post, and debating if I even should.  But  I've come to think of you all as friends and as a support system, and all of your prayers can only help, so here goes...

My mom (who is my best friend) had been having some stomach pain and problems for a few weeks, so she recently went to a couple of different specialists to have a series of tests done.  This included a colonoscopy.

When I spoke to her after she got the results, I was expecting the usual "everything is fine" report.  I was completely unprepared and stunned when she said,  "It's not good news."
What?

They had found a cancerous mass on her colon.  I couldn't wrap my brain around this.

My sweet mom, who is 72 years young, so beautiful and incredibly healthy and full of life...how could this be?




Well, in the last couple of weeks it has slowly started to sink in.  Although this news at first devastated me, my family and I are choosing to trust God.  We believe that He is good and faithful!
So we're taking these 'lemons' and giving them to Him.

My mom is having surgery this Tuesday, the 12th to have a large portion of her intestine/colon removed.  The good news is that they think that the cancer is contained, and that they can get it all!  So we're focusing on that.

My mom has a wonderful attitude, and the peace of God is on her and with her.




I truly believe in the power of prayer, so with her permission, I'm asking you for yours.

Thank you all so much for your kindness and encouragement!  I appreciate you more than you know.

I may not be posting much or visiting you much in the coming weeks, but I'll be thinking of you all and will keep you updated on her situation.
at

83 comments:

  1. LenaAugust 10, 2014 at 10:57 AM

    I'm so sorry, my dear!! Sending hugs and prayers your way for your Mom and your whole family!!

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  2. Vicki @ lifeinmyemptynestAugust 10, 2014 at 11:03 AM

    Prayers for a successful surgery! My mother is a colon cancer survivor so hope is there for your beautiful mother.

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  3. Cathy @ My 1929 CharmerAugust 10, 2014 at 11:04 AM

    I am so sorry to hear this about your Mom. I'll keep you in my prayers that she surgery goes well. Keeping our faith in God is what keeps us going, and know he has a plan! Keep us posted and know we are thinking of you!

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  4. UnknownAugust 10, 2014 at 11:09 AM

    Sending much love your way Susan. I have faith that she is wonderful hands and it sounds like they caught it early. (((((hugs)))) Stay strong, she will need you so much!

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  5. Row homes and CobblestonesAugust 10, 2014 at 11:16 AM

    Susan,
    I am praying for your Mom and your family. Powerful energy in prayers. My experience with "kick you in the gut" health issues is positive thinking and trusting in faith during emotional trying times is difficult but always triumphs. God is always willing to accept all our lemons.
    XO,
    Vera

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  6. pballardAugust 10, 2014 at 11:19 AM

    Thanks for letting us be a part of your moms and families journey! Positivity and prayer will get you all through I do believe. God is faithful! I will add your family to my list of prayers for sure. Hugs to you Susan!

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  7. Julia @ Vintage with LacesAugust 10, 2014 at 11:25 AM

    Oh Susan, I'm so very sorry to hear about your Mom. I hope the surgery will be a success and she will totally recover. You both will be in my thoughts.
    Sending you a very big hug,
    Julia

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  8. AnonymousAugust 10, 2014 at 11:35 AM

    I will keep you in my prayers. Peace be with you during this horrific journey. I pray they will get all of the cancer out and that you and your mother can deepen your friendship and have many wonderful years together.

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  9. Art and SandAugust 10, 2014 at 11:38 AM

    My thoughts are with you and your mother. I no longer believe that cancer is a killer because of so many friends who have fought it and won through the power of prayer and positive attitude. I hope your mom takes the lemons and makes lemonade, lemon bars, lemon meringue pie and anything else to stay active.

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  10. Lin from A {tiny} Cottage In The WoodsAugust 10, 2014 at 11:50 AM

    Love, light and positive thoughts are being sent to you all.
    xoxo,
    Lin

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  11. Jasper's CottageAugust 10, 2014 at 11:50 AM

    I am sending prayers your way - for your mom, a successful surgery and recovery and for your whole family because cancer takes a toll on everyone.

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  12. Rita C at PanoplyAugust 10, 2014 at 11:52 AM

    Oh Susan, my heart breaks for you, your mom, and your family. I know she is such an integral part of all that you do. I will definitely put you all in my prayers. Prayers for the medical team whose hands your mom's health will be entrusted, too. I have a dear friend who's a breast and thyroid cancer survivor has a very uplifting group page (closed, so it's a good place to vent with the group) called "Survivor Stories". She is also an RN who runs an assisted living facility in Jupiter, FL, and puts good info out there. It may be a good place for you to explore, esp. while you're engaged in all the waiting that's sure to come. Hugs to you!
    Rita

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  13. StaceyAugust 10, 2014 at 11:57 AM

    So many prayers coming your way Susan!! My dad has had leukemia in the last year and I know how scary it is. I'll be thinking of you often.

    Stacey

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  14. 2 DogsAugust 10, 2014 at 11:57 AM

    Will be praying for your mom and you this week and that surgery will go well. She is such a pretty lady and a beautiful smile. God bless!

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  15. JacquelineAugust 10, 2014 at 12:01 PM

    There is life after colon cancer. I am a 3 year survivor and am feeling wonderful. The chemo is a bear but that too passes. You and your Mom are in my prayers.

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  16. KellyAugust 10, 2014 at 12:04 PM

    Oh I'm just SO sorry to hear this news! I know how scary this can be to a family. My grandfather had colon cancer many years ago. And as you know, I suffer with problems with my own colon that are awful. I hope the doctors can get all of the cancer removed and your mom can go on to live a healthy and happy life. I will keep her in my prayers.

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  17. Gypsy HeartAugust 10, 2014 at 12:19 PM

    I know this is scary but place this in God's hands. I have a dear friend that had colon cancer years & years ago ~ she is well and operating at full speed. :) I will hold you, your Mom and the medical team in my prayers.

    I've volunteered with Chemo Angels since I retired in '03. I highly recommend it for your Mom! It's a support for those going through treatment...all positive and uplifting. If you'd like to discuss it with her, check out
    http://chemoangels.wix.com/chemo-angels-1/

    Please let me know if I can help in any way!

    Love & light,
    Pat
    P.S. She's beautiful!

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  18. Kathy @ Creative Home ExpressionsAugust 10, 2014 at 12:46 PM

    Oh gosh, I'm sorry to hear this, Susan. My thoughts and prayers are with your Mom and the whole family. The woman I work with (for a few short months now), her husband had colon cancer. He is in remission and doing well. He is actually back to work now full-time; just has to be careful not to overdo it or lift heavy things.

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  19. Glenda/MidSouthAugust 10, 2014 at 12:52 PM

    Sending prayers and healing thoughts for a fast and full recovery.

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  20. Elka GoberAugust 10, 2014 at 1:21 PM

    Sending Prayers and Best Wishes from Dallas, Ga. <3

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  21. KathyAugust 10, 2014 at 1:40 PM

    Sending prayers for her and you and your family!

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  22. JunkchiccottageAugust 10, 2014 at 1:42 PM

    Hi Susan,
    My heart and prayers are full for your mom. I believe in the power of prayer and have seen this work with my own family so I know with everyone praying it will be so good for your sweet mom. I know you worry my friend but trust in God and the power of prayer and your mom will be in good hands. So happy your mom is having such a great attitude that helps more than anything to help someone heal and come back to health after something like this. Hugs
    Kris

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  23. Linda @ A La CarteAugust 10, 2014 at 1:48 PM

    Prayers for a good outcome from surgery!

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  24. ~Lavender Dreamer~August 10, 2014 at 1:50 PM

    I'm so glad you mentioned this to us, my friend. I'll keep her in my prayers and say some extra prayers on Tuesday. She is a beautiful lady and I'm wishing the very best for her. Sweet hugs Diane

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  25. SusieAugust 10, 2014 at 2:30 PM

    Susan, When it comes to prayers, never hesitate to ask for them. There is power in prayer. I will be thinking of and praying for your sweet mother. Blessings, xoxo,Susie

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  26. sweetbriardreamsAugust 10, 2014 at 2:30 PM

    I will certainly keep her in my prayers and will have her on our prayer board in work for Tuesday. She sounds as if she has a wonderful positive outlook on life and this will make her strong. My love to you all xx

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  27. Patty SumnerAugust 10, 2014 at 2:56 PM

    I am agreeing with your heart in prayer.. Keep us posted! I am excited to hear how God works this out! Blessings!

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  28. Vintage NovellaAugust 10, 2014 at 3:19 PM

    Susan, I'm so sorry to hear this. I met your sweet mom last year when I bought a table from your shop. Peace and love to you and your family.

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  29. UnknownAugust 10, 2014 at 4:02 PM

    I will keep your dear Mum in my prayers daily! my father was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer at the age of 65. It had already metastasized by the time they found it. Your mum is so very lucky that it is "contained" and operable. I wish her the VERY best recovery!

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  30. Brenda PruittAugust 10, 2014 at 4:14 PM

    You two have the exact same smile. And like you, she is a very beautiful woman. I send good karma your mother's way. My friend Judy's husband is having the third cancer surgery in less than a year tomorrow morning. So I shall be keeping good spiritual thoughts for them both.
    Brenda

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  31. Mary@mydogsmygardenandmaryAugust 10, 2014 at 4:35 PM

    Oh Susan, I am so sorry to hear about your dear sweet mother. I will be including your mother in my daily prayers for a successful surgery and a quick recovery. She will be up in no time making all kinds of wonderful lemonade, pies, etc.
    Mary

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  32. Linda @ Itsy Bits And PiecesAugust 10, 2014 at 4:44 PM

    I'm so sorry to hear this, Susan, but I'm very glad she had the colonoscopy so they could find it. It will keep you all in my prayers and am sending good thoughts your mother's way for a successful surgery and a full and speedy recovery! xoxo

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  33. GARAGE SALE GALAugust 10, 2014 at 5:08 PM

    Praying for the doctor's hands to be guided by the healing hand of God during your Mom's surgery. Praying for His Peace to be felt by all...sending hugs..
    warmly,
    deb

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  34. Pam KesslerAugust 10, 2014 at 5:13 PM

    I'm so sorry to hear that about your mom. I will be praying for her and your family.

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  35. Katie MansfieldAugust 10, 2014 at 5:46 PM

    Praying for her and for you. May the Lord wrap his arms around all of you and carry you through.

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  36. Betsy@My Salvaged TreasuresAugust 10, 2014 at 5:52 PM

    I can't tell you how sorry I am to hear this news, it certainly not what you were expecting to hear. I will definitely be keeping your mom and your entire family in my prayers. Your beautiful mom has such a good attitude, and with the power of prayer and her faith, she'll pull through this.

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  37. pathtojunkentreasureAugust 10, 2014 at 6:11 PM

    Susan, I'm so sorry to hear about your mom. My thoughts and prayers will be with her and your family. Stay strong for her. She will be needing you more than ever. Milena

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  38. UnknownAugust 10, 2014 at 6:31 PM

    Susan, on Tuesday your mom will be right where God needs her to be for His healing grace to flow through doctors and nurses and through her. Prayers for you both.

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  39. UnknownAugust 10, 2014 at 6:33 PM

    Thinking of you and sending prayers your mom's way!

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  40. Sweet European DreamsAugust 10, 2014 at 7:00 PM

    Thanks for being open about this - now you have a slew of prayer warriors standing with you! My mom was diagnosed with bladder cancer 6 years ago now, and she's currently chasing her grandkids, painting, and living life to the fullest. When thoughts or fears may get you down, Joyce Meyer's "Power Thoughts" is a great resource to have handy. Praying for all of you! -Diane

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  41. Di@Cottage-WishesAugust 10, 2014 at 7:14 PM

    Your prayer warriors are on it! I am a clinic manager at a gastroenterology group. We have a walk every year for colon cancer. Everyone needs their screening starting at age 50. Your mom will do great, she has a spirit of fighting. I send my prayers for her and you too! Di

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  42. Donna WilkesAugust 10, 2014 at 7:21 PM

    Be blessed and God-strong.

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  43. UnknownAugust 10, 2014 at 7:39 PM

    Praying for all of you. May you remember that nothing comes to you that isn't first sifted through the hands of a loving Father. May you feel His presence every step of the journey. This will be a sweet time for all of you as she recovers and continues her life.

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  44. Joy JunktionAugust 10, 2014 at 7:48 PM

    Susan, You have been in my prayers as God has placed you on my heart over the past few weeks. I didn't know why, but I suppose this is the answer. Your family will definitely be in my prayers in the coming weeks and especially on Tuesday as your mom heads for surgery! I believe, along with you, in the power of prayer and healing! May God wrap His loving arms around you all! Blessings, Cindy

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  45. Sharon @ Elizabeth & Co.August 10, 2014 at 7:57 PM

    Sending prayers and wishing your mom the very best!

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  46. ReviAugust 10, 2014 at 8:19 PM

    Thank you for sharing with us, Susan. I want to encourage you as well...my mom had the same situation - a section of colon removed, and thankfully, it was a "best case scenario." That was about 10 years ago. There has been no recurrence. Life has been normal...and maybe even more precious after confronting the "big c." I'll be praying for a very similar situation for your mom as well. Bless you all - may you all grow closer to each other and to our creator and healer during this time.

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  47. Regena FickesAugust 10, 2014 at 8:20 PM

    I am a firm believer in prayer. My Mom had cervical cancer in her 40's and colon cancer in her 60's. She had surgery both times and recovered. Let us all draw a circle around your Moms' complete recovery and pray.Almighty God, Our Father; We pray for grace for Susan's mother before, during and after the surgery. We ask for healing from the operation. We ask for guidance of the hands of the surgeon, nurses and all who come in contact with her. We ask for strength to recover and give You praise in all things. Thy will be done. Amen

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  48. Jacqueline~Cabin and CottageAugust 10, 2014 at 8:32 PM

    My heart is with you and your Mom. Blessings to you and your family. Your faith will get you through.

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  49. Sherry @ Thrift My HouseAugust 10, 2014 at 8:37 PM

    Keeping your Mom and your family in prayer! I'm glad you shared this with us Susan. Hugs to you both!

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  50. CherylAugust 10, 2014 at 9:04 PM

    Keeping your mom and family in my thoughts and prayers. The power of prayer is miraculous as I know from past experience with cancer. No reoccurrence for a year and I still pray and thank God.
    Blessings to you and your mom!

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  51. DebbyAugust 10, 2014 at 9:04 PM

    So glad that you shared this with us. The power of prayer is amazing and I will be praying. I hope the surgery goes well. Hugs and prayers for your mother and your family.

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  52. Lisa @ Fern Creek CottageAugust 10, 2014 at 9:13 PM

    So scary, but you you are handling it the best way possible...giving this over to God. I will be praying often for your Mom and especially on Tuesday.

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  53. White Lace and PromisesAugust 10, 2014 at 9:23 PM

    Susan, you have an amazing support system. Your mother is beautiful and younger than her years for sure. I have a friend who had colon cancer and she's a twenty year survivor. God heals through physicians and I am believing with you. Bonnie

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  54. lynnAugust 10, 2014 at 9:31 PM

    Thank you for asking us to share your need. Sending thoughts and prayers of complete healing and long life for your mom and comfort for all your family as you move through this one step at a time, with your Higher Power at your side all the way. ♥

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  55. chateau chicAugust 10, 2014 at 9:34 PM

    Be assured of my prayers this week for your mom, Susan! Sounds like your mom is already experiencing "the peace that passeth all understanding," and I'll be praying that for you as well.
    The Great Physician is in control, and I pray you'll know his love, grace, and presence in a very tangible way.
    Blessings dear friend,
    Mary Alice

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  56. Sherry @ No Minimalist HereAugust 10, 2014 at 9:39 PM

    Susan, I am praying everything turns out well for your mother and her surgery is a success.
    Sending big hugs,
    Sherry

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  57. Our Hopeful HomeAugust 10, 2014 at 9:50 PM

    Susan, your mom and family are in my prayers. I know it must have been hard for you to share this information, but you're right ~ the power of prayer is all-encompassing and your mother's health is in God's hands. She's beautiful, and by your description, strong. What a great combination in a mother! Hang in there, and know that prayer is on her side!
    xo Kathleen

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  58. cynthia lee designsAugust 10, 2014 at 9:51 PM

    Susan...sending up prayers for your mom and for you and your family. Also praying for her surgery and for the doctors. Sending hugs your way.
    ~Cindy

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  59. PurpleTuckerAugust 10, 2014 at 10:09 PM

    Susan, sending all the support and prayers to you, your mom, and your family. We'll be thinking of you.

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  60. Marsha @ Tattered ChickAugust 10, 2014 at 10:27 PM

    Your mother, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. God bless you, Marsha

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  61. Rose LAugust 10, 2014 at 10:58 PM

    I just said a prayer for your beautiful mother! She seems to shine from the inside. I know God will guide the doctors and her healing will be swift. I am 62 and she definitely looks better than me!!!!

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  62. michelleAugust 11, 2014 at 12:06 AM

    You and your mom will be in my prayers. When my mother was 71, she went for a routine mammogram and was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer. She is now 76 and cancer-free. We fully believe in the power of prayer, and that God is in control. Best of luck to you both!

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  63. CandeeAugust 11, 2014 at 12:42 AM

    Sending prayers your way!

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  64. elizabethAugust 11, 2014 at 2:48 AM

    Praying and agreeing with you that the cancer is fully contained, will be successfully removed without complications, and that your sweet mama will recover completely and speedily!

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  65. farmhouse-storyAugust 11, 2014 at 7:42 AM

    hugs to you and your mom, susan. and praying for a quick recovery for her:)

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  66. Vickie @ Ranger 911August 11, 2014 at 8:32 AM

    Susan, I know how close you and your mother are, and my heart goes out to you at this difficult time. My thoughts will be with you and your family over the next few weeks. I hope the surgery is a success and your mother has a speedy recovery. We'll still be here when you are ready to start blogging again. Take care.

    xo, Vickie

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  67. jennay723August 11, 2014 at 8:34 AM

    Send thoughts and prayers to you and your family. God Bless. xo

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  68. ShugAugust 11, 2014 at 10:09 AM

    Your mom is a beautiful lady.... When our grandson had cancer at the age of 8, people all across the Country and afar, prayed for Tucker. These were people who had never met him, but they knew there was a need and they prayed. I'm praying for your mom.....I'm standing in the gap, believing that this surgery will be totally successful and that ALL cancer is gone! Please keep us posted.
    hugs to you and your mom.

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  69. Tarnished RoyaltyAugust 11, 2014 at 11:01 AM

    Susan, I know it's a scary time right now. I'm praying that you will all look back and see the hand of God at work through the surgery and healing process of your precious mom. I'll be praying for a complete recovery and a long, long life ahead for her. I'm sure there will be lots more junking adventures for the two of you for years to come! ~Ann

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  70. Linda@Coastal CharmAugust 11, 2014 at 12:04 PM

    Susan,
    My heart is breaking for all of you and please know that I will start praying right away. Prayer is so powerful, so I will be sharing this on my facebook page so more prayers will be said for your sweet mom. Please tell me again, her first name.

    Blessings,
    Linda

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  71. Andrea at Opulent CottageAugust 11, 2014 at 6:26 PM

    Dear Susan, you and your sweet mama will be in our prayers. We will be thinking of you and your whole family, and look forward to reading about a successful recovery! xoxo

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  72. Sew a Fine SeamAugust 11, 2014 at 8:06 PM

    I am so sorry Susan and I will be keeping you all in my prayers. And I know God can take these lemons and make the most delicious lemonade ever.

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  73. sweetvintageofmineAugust 11, 2014 at 10:00 PM

    Dearest Susan, My heart goes out to your Mother and you hearing this unexpected news. Yes, I am praying and will be praying tomorrow as well. A good, positive attitude is HEALING to your Mother in many ways......I pray in Jesus name encouragement, strength and the surgery goes better than expected....that God guides the surgeons hands....that NO WEAPON formed against your Mother in anyway shall prosper and I speak and decree healing! Susan, please know we care about you and will be thinking of you......Roxie

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  74. Shirley@Housepitality DesignsAugust 11, 2014 at 11:13 PM

    My thoughts and many prayers are with you and your mom as she goes through this difficult time....I know that you will be her tower of strength through these upcoming days...Thinking of you!!

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  75. ValerieAugust 12, 2014 at 10:26 AM

    Will be thinking of you all. So sorry to hear.
    Blessings, Valerie

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  76. SuzeAugust 12, 2014 at 10:57 AM

    Hugs and prayers for you, your family and your beautiful Mother.

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  77. Vicki JoAugust 12, 2014 at 12:13 PM

    Prayers for all of you!

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  78. AnonymousAugust 13, 2014 at 12:13 AM

    Sending prayers your way.

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  79. awal.nyAugust 13, 2014 at 8:26 PM

    Susan I missed this post. I did read that your mom's surgery went well. I love her spirit, that is the best attitude. I wish you both the best. Alaina

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  80. UnknownAugust 14, 2014 at 12:33 AM

    So very sorry to hear this. Prayers and positive energy from me to you and your beautiful mother! xo Jen

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  81. LauraAugust 14, 2014 at 6:47 AM

    Dear Susan- keeping you and your family and especially your sweet mom in my prayers. I truly believe in the power of prayer- it works! Your mom is blessed to have a daughter like you, and I am sure she will gain much strength from you and the love you share. God bless you. Laura Milligan

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  82. UnknownAugust 20, 2014 at 11:46 PM

    Susan I just read this and I'm so sorry you're having to go through this. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your mom. I saw that she's doing better and I'm so glad for that. Prayer is so strong and powerful and I'm so glad you chose to share this with all your blogging family. We're all lifting you and your mom up...now and through recovery! (I saw things went well.)

    P.S. I finally got a chance to see your magazine feature and I loooooooooved it! I was so happy to get to see all of the rooms! Gorgeous and so full of character! Loved it!

    Love to you!
    Leelee

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