A guest writer post from Lee Lee.

Four years ago right now, I was sittin on the patio at the St. Mary’s Pavilion, hooked up to my very last bag of poison, surrounded by caring friends and celebratory nurses. It was a beautiful day, much like today, and I was so happy to be there, ending my chemical fight against cancer, beginning the end of my bout with baldness and other even-more-fun side effects, and movin on to a little recovery period before phase two of the fight (radiation). For such a hateful time of my life, I sure came out of it heaped up with blessings.

For some, it’s cliche. “Don’t take a single day for granted.” “Life is a gift.” “Live like you were dying.” “Let those you love know you love them.” “Gitter done.” For me, its the gospel. Lance Armstrong said now he only has good days, or great days. Its a very real, tangible, almost touchable feeling. While I don’t wish cancer on anyone, I do wish everyone could feel that sense of what is truly important and what is truly worthwhile, in their lives, and live according to that. I wish everyone could realize the positivity of life, the potential of life, the bright side, of life. It truly IS a gift. Make someone smile today. Make someone feel good. Help someone. And don’t waste a second. Got something you’ve always wanted to do? For Pete’s sakes – DO IT. Enjoy Every Day. Laugh; oh my gosh, LAUGH. Let go of the bygones. Yes, this is the Gospel Accordin to Lee Lee.

I am about to turn 45. When I turned 40, I knew I was going to have the crappiest year of my life. Not even halfway into the year, I was diagnosed. Self-fulfilling prophecy? I dunno. I’m pretty sure I already had cancer when I hit the big 4-0, so I don’t really think I jinxed myself, BUT – this year, I’m going to have one of the best of my life. I’ll be headin into my five-years post cancer year (YAY!). My kids are smart and happy and healthy and fun. My friends – my friends – my friends are the best people I know. This year it was my privilege to vacation with some of my besties, reconnect with long-lost but much-loved friends, form new important and meaningful friendships, and nurture and build on present ones. And, I am happy that I got to see my family this year, and reconnect, share in life’s joys, and reaffirm that familial, deep-rooted unwavering love and devotion. I have had one of my best, most fun years ever, in many respects. And I, cliche or not, am grateful, and am sooo excited about whats to come that I can barely STAND it. Bring it bring it bring it BRING IT!!! Have a good day, everyone. And if you haven’t heard Kenny Chesney’s new song “I’m Alive,” here are the words to it – give it a listen, when ya can. Its definitely an anthem.

Live it up! Lee Lee

Happy Happy Happy. Happy to be, Happy to be. Just flat-out HAPPY.