5 YEARS!

There's so much I want to say.

I'm overwhelmed by the fact that it's been 5 whole years since my transplant. Those of you who have been following know that I've had my ups and downs, both physically/medically and emotionally. It's certainly been an eventful ride.

Here's what's been going on.

In September of last year 2012, I was casually going through a local online bulletin board when I came across an advertisement for a part time job in a local girls high school. I responded to the ad, went for the interview and was fortunate to get the job. I haven't held a job since I was pregnant with Jacob in 1987. I can't begin to tell you how much I enjoy it and how I believe it's one of the best decision I've ever made. I work in the afternoons in a wonderful & inspiring environment surrounded by some of the most wonderful people I've ever had the good fortune to meet. I consider this job, and way it fell into my lap, to be one of the greatest blessings in my life.

Jacob and Yasmin are in a engagement holding pattern. They're still happily and lovingly engaged and living in Arlington, Virginia where Jacob is continuing at George Mason University School of Law. I think they want to wait until after he graduates before tying the knot. Whatever they decide is okay by me. I love them both and will support their decisions.

Rachel and Jamie are living nearby and.... they have a beautiful baby girl. Sara Bracha (def: Princess Blessing) was born in August and is absolute joy! She is named for my Grandma who passed away in February, 2008, just a few months before my transplant -- and 5 weeks before my father passed away. (2008 was one helluva year)

David and I are no longer together. I guess we just weren't strong enough to withstand some of the challenges with which we were faced. It's very sad but, at the same time, a relief. I was so terribly unhappy for such a long time, I feel like I can finally breathe.

At the moment, Mom is in Israel. She's been living in Florida year-round but has been having a great time traveling. She's due back right before Chanukah/Thanksgiving. I miss her. It'll be good to have her here.

As my 5 year mark approaches this Sunday, I've been spending a lot of time thinking and reflecting. I've been so blessed to be surrounded by so much love. I've been wondering why some people "make it" and other don't. I've been thinking about whether going through what I went through is a blessing or a curse. I feel that I have become a better person but I weep at the thought of what I lost and I can honestly say that I find it hard to believe that I actually went through all that I did.

I have more to share but I feel like this is a good start.

Thank you for sharing the road with me and for your continued love and blessings.

Believe in miracles! I still do.