Fries, Cries, and Christmas

On By K.L. HaleIn Essay, Holiday

Christmas season was in the air. It was 1988 and I was so nervous about my college finals (Algebra–need I say more?). “Christmas in Dixie” by Alabama could be heard humming from the tape player of the ’81 Ford Granada as I tootled (a Grandma Ava word) carefully towards Southwest Missouri State University on snow-covered roads. Finals were waiting for me. This was before the days of online classes–a day’s drive, parking, walking, and taking the tests ate up most of the day. Speaking of ate up…I remember being hungry. Seeing the golden arches was equivalent to receiving a trophy. Just the SMELL of the fries beckoned me. With a full tank, belly, and “Christmas Memories” chaperoning, a prominent peace paved my way. Each Christmas when my sons were little there was Christmas music and french fries. My parents still buy us all gift cards. There’s something about fries that equals comfort to me. Yes, I know they’re not good for me…but…

Cries and fries make sense to me! Perhaps that’s why I found myself going through a drive-through recently. The smell of fries, and the sound of “Tennessee Christmas” by Alabama ringing through my Bluetooth via Amazon Prime music, lured me to the Golden Arches. The salty tears and fries didn’t worsen the wounds. They helped me let them go.

Cries and fries. Why could I drive so many miles two weekends ago and today, barely go 10? Why didn’t I know about my cancer YEARS ago? Why do I hurt? Why am I fine for one hour and not the next? Does the pain mean it’s progressing? Why won’t it go away? Why won’t the doctor say more? What can I do to help others? What is my purpose? What were the warning signs? How can I operate in a fast-paced world while moving at a snail’s pace? What happens when I can’t stay ahead and be deliberate about plans? Why is my energy level low? How can I help others understand? Why do my bones ache? Haven’t I cried enough? Why is my french fry box empty? Why do I have salt on my face? I cried for my family. I cried in guilt that I may not be here to take care of those who love me. To help out when I’m needed. To give time, energy, and love. I’m in between seasons. Every day. I don’t understand why I haven’t been given the exact time I show up for radiation tomorrow. I need a 9-volt battery so the back bedroom smoke alarm won’t chirp. I need to call my home lenders to ensure my escrow is being used to pay my taxes on time (and not on someone else’s property like last year), I want to read what other bloggers are writing about. I want to be patient. I wanted to have my tree up early and Christmas gifts bought in case I feel worse. I want to hold my family tight, from little to old…and never let go. I want to be better than I was yesterday. I want to be there when my kids and grandkids need me. Want, want, want,…what do I need? Some days I just need to cry. The tears can turn to laughter as you lick off the salt. The goodness tastes “gooder” when it’s all finally out.

As we celebrate good finds, the lights, and the cheer let’s remember who loves us and let go of the fear. It’s ok to cry and let it all out, for life is full circle without any doubt. Be who you are, say how you feel,…but let go of the anger and just be real. Once you let down the wall and receive the light, you’ll realize you’re only human, none of us are right. Laugh when you can and take it day by day, forgive one another, and don’t forget to pray. HE hears you. HE sees you. HE knows just how you are. Remember that love is never too far.

Momma’s turkey and dressing, family (missing some I love so much), movies, and memories did nourish. Not a day goes by that I’m not smelling memories, tasting the goodness of grace, praying for those who have it much worse, and longing to have my love linger around all of those that I cherish the most.

Have faith💚

P.S. I love fries

Have you heard of NET yet?

Tomorrow I’ll go in for round #2 of P.R.R.T. (Peptide Receptor Radionuclide Therapy-radiation). Recently, after having so much fun visiting my youngest son and family and having guests, my blood counts dipped. Several years ago I was diagnosed with a blood disorder so it all makes sense to me now. It explains why my energy level might suddenly drop. It’s not just about the blood. The roof of my mouth will swell and hurt, my gums bleed, my bones ache, and abdominal pains will return. BUT IT COULD ALWAYS BE WORSE. After sharing my hope of possible surgery I, with my family’s support, made the decision that surgery is not an option at this juncture. Two of my doctors in the last two weeks also shared their concerns about surgery. There’s still hope. I’m going to always have hope. It doesn’t mean there won’t be tough days. But I’ll continue taking advantage of every good moment. Recently I found out about a young man from my area who underwent a Whipple procedure to remove large tumors. I’m hoping to make future contact with him and others who battle this cancer. It would be extremely helpful to know them and have their support. I’m so thankful for my family and friends. I thank you all for your continued support and prayers. Always.

This time of year is uplifting. Our little town is having a light display contest, our football team is playing for State Championship next weekend (a big boost for our community), and people are generally, in good spirits. I wish to package it and open it every day of the year. Let’s give the gift of kindness to those who are struggling, dreading the holidays, and need comfort. Stay blessed and healthy my friends.

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122 thoughts on “Fries, Cries, and Christmas”

    1. Thank you, Tangie. I pray for you daily. PRRT was approved in 2018 by our FDA. It has receptors that bind only with neuroendocrine receptors and supposedly, destroys them. It only goes to those cells. I’m given amino acids to protect my kidneys. They are using it now for pancreatic and prostate cancers. It’s been used in Europe for many many years. I’m hopeful it’s doing its job without causing too much distress on my system.

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  3. Last time (and I mean last) time I ate at McDonalds was on my way down the mountain from my stone house in Descanso, CA. The new owners would take possession the next day and I was on my way out of CA in a couple of days. I won’t eat at McD’s again.

    Everything is deeply inscrutable. The man I interviewed in October, the artist, hit a semi a couple weeks ago and has been in and out of ICU since. Will he make it? Probably but what will he be at the end? If he’s on oxygen, he won’t be able to weld and that’s his passion, making sculptures from old farm machinery, beautiful, whimsical, gentle sculptures. Thinking of him, and my own challenges doing what I love over the past four months (nothing like John will confront or you are confronting) gave me the same message.

    Love what you love with all your heart and soul while you can. You’re very good at that, Karla. Much love to you and Finn from me, Bear and Teddy ❤️💕🐾🐾

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    1. MAK, Finn and I love you 3. 💕I totally understand why you won’t eat at McDonald’s. I’m sad to hear about the artist’s accident. I’ll remember him in my prayers. Inscrutable is an excellent word. I’ll never understand some situations. Life can turn on a dime. I can relate to all, including you, who are challenged with limits on what you love. “Love what you love with all your heart and soul while you can.”…Martha, that sums it all up. Thank you for being here and supporting us always. Love, Finn and me 💕🥰🐾

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  4. My sweet Karla, you are a beautiful gift to those of us who are praying for you and love you even though we have never met face to face. Your precious words brought tears to my eyes. Thank you for updating us, it means so much to hear from you when you feel like writing. I love those Christmas songs from Alabama, we have been fans for man years. They live only 45 minutes from me. Sweetheart, you are in my prayers, my thoughts, and always and always on my heart ♥️🙏🏻🎄🍟♥️ Your faith encourages me ♥️🙏🏻♥️

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    1. Pam, thank you for this sweet response. It’s so wonderful how WP can create family in time. Just as it has us. I thought of all of you around your beautiful table on Thanksgiving. I mentioned you and your beautiful decorating to my daughter-in-law and twin. I’m happy my faith is encouraging. I love that I can share my heart and mind and find those that can relate such as you. I do love and appreciate you and Butch for keeping my family and I in your thoughts and prayers. How neat that you live only 45 minutes from them. I also love their song, “Angels Among Us”. We used to sing that every year at Christmas. ❤️💕🙏🏻🥰💛 🍟 much love and hugs

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  5. I’m heading out after this and I’m picking up some fries in honor of you. I might cry while I eat but they will be tears shed in love and fondness. Oh, and I’ll leave a little salt on the face! Thinking of you always, joining my hopes with yours, knowing how grateful I am for this crazy adventure called life, but realizing this is only a foreshadowing of what awaits us. Love you dear Karla, hugs, C

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    1. C, do it! Oh my! More tears! Joining my hope with yours….that’s it! Let’s make a hope rope! I want everyone to read this and join in our hope rope! No tug of war but all of us hanging on together! A friend and I just spoke about how we know what’s waiting. In the meantime I’ll do my best and enjoy what I can. I Iove you too, C. Thank you so much. ❤️🥰💕🍟

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  6. Ginger Salvatore

    Karla, as always, it’s wonderful to have a post from you. So happy to hear you visited your youngest son and his family and you had guests to boot.

    The holidays, most especially Thanksgiving and Christmas, definitely bring our emotions to the surface as our thoughts travel down Memory Lane. I think fries, with a side of cries, is a perfect combination for you. The fries are a soothing balm while the cries are a welcome purging session. Perfect for what ails you, and Lord knows there’s a lot that ails you! 🤗

    I’m glad you are putting surgery on the side burner, at least for now. I pray this next round of radiation brings some much needed good news. Yes, you’re going to continue to have some really tough days, but hopefully more days where you feel pretty darn good.

    Sending my wishes that you can stay strong through this next treatment. I have no doubt you will do your best to kick this cancer in the bazonger! We’ll all get in line and kick with you.

    I sure hope Miss Finley got a little taste of your momma’s turkey.

    Please know how much you matter and what a special person you are continuing to help others any way you can. I don’t know how you keep those angel wings hidden! Ginger

    Sent from my iPad

    >

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    1. Ginger, thank you for such encouragement and smiles! Finley DID get turkey…more than she needed. So you know, she and I can both act like real turkeys sometimes so we appreciate the love and support so much! Thank you for affirming the thoughts on surgery and kicking cancer’s bazonger! Lol. It means so much that you follow my journey ~the good, bad, and ugly salty cries. I feel the wishes and love and Finn and I send it back to you! ❤️🐾

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  7. atimetoshare.me

    I’m thinking of all my holiday triggers as I read your words. The days when we’d trudge through the tree farm with our three young’n s. Paul’s beard has icicles clinging tightly. The kids were so bundled Up they could hardly walk and I was suffering with another case of bronchitis. I recall the handmade ornaments with names of new and old family members. Hot chocolate with a scoop of French vanilla ice cream. The nativity set without Joseph’s head. This time of year stirs all those memories and traditions. It’s all part of who we are and what we pass on to the next generation.

    My prayers continue for you daily that God will put the right people in your life to help you beat this ugly disease. If it’s His will, I hope he will give you many more years to inspire and encourage others. I know you do that for me and so many others. While you wait, enjoy those fries and tears!

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    1. Kathy, I love your memories. I can see them all in my head. They’re so precious. Your prayers are felt and so appreciated. How are you and Paul? I need to email. I appreciate you saying “If it’s His will”….letting go and giving it to God doesn’t mean someone doesn’t want to fight. It just means that I accept his will and will follow HIS lead. This is the toughest thing I’ve ever experienced. I’ve made many decisions that were not in his will and tried to get back into step. He always places me where I need. For some reason, I have this. Although I don’t always understand his ways I DO know the Waymaker. I’ve bet my life on it and live by it. You’re an inspiration to me, Kathy. I love you. Please take care…both of you. You remind me so much of my Mom and Dad. You’re that Momma K. I wish for many many years into my 80’s like you all. But I’m so happy for what I’ve crammed into this life and I do believe in miracles. ❤️💕🙏🏻

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    1. Dwight, thank you! Hmm,…what a great idea! Lol! I have a daily journal I keep and I write what I’m thankful for each day…what is listed daily by the title is God and the 4 F’s~faith, family, friends, and Finley…I guess I need to put 5 F’s! I’m a sucker for salty treats! Thank you for your continued prayers and support, Dwight.

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  11. In love fries too – potatoes in general, any which way, they are comforting and grounding, they are literally from the ground, and that’s why we reach for them in times of turmoil I guess. It breaks my heart to think of you crying salty tears and having salty fingers and being worried about so many things, and in pain. I don’t know why horrid thing happen to good people – why can’t only the evil people get horrible things like cancer? Perhaps because they are incapable of finding any gift in their illness, something which you carefully unwrap for us in your posts and pass along to us who read your very human experience. We feel empathy, connection, love, and we parcel these things up and send them back to you. A game of pass the parcel that continues around the world, love packaged, love unwrapped, hearts connected just as we humans are supposed to do and be. Just wish I was closer to give you a hug in person (and share the fries – actually I would buy a box of my own) Thinking of you in the lead up to Christmas, soon it will be time to haul out a Christmas tree of some description (usually dead branches artfully minimal but I don’t like cutting down little trees just to have the greenery and I hate plastic, so every year my family wait to see what weird Christmas tree I have produced instead – and comment😏) both my sons have happily bought their own plastic Christmas trees since moving into their own homes and having girlfriends – finally! They must think – a normal Christmas tree like everyone else 😁😂 oh well they won’t be bored by their ever evolving mother anytime soon and their lovely girlfriends find me…interesting (I think) I’m off to hut some Maccas fries in solidarity because yes – they are bad for me but as soon as you described them I could taste them and Inhavent had any in months – I’ll eat them in solidarity and send you love with a kiss blown across my salty fingertips 😘 🍟🎄❤️

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    1. Kate,…I understand every word you write. I do love comforting and grounding things. And I completely understand the tree situation! I struggle with communication and here, in this platform of writers, I feel understood. Our deep thinking and sometimes misunderstood ways are aligned with one another. It touches my heart that this “passing the parcel” allows our humanity to connect and understand! I giggled reading “and their lovely girlfriends find me…interesting…” I get it! Go get those Macca fries and I’ll share the moment with you. Much love my friend. ❤️💕💚

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  14. jennyorrandy@aol.com

    Many prayers for tomorrow and the next several days.  Love you lots and lots!!!!!!  Ps,  I love fries too!!  But mine are better than mcD’s!!  I’ll have to make you some!!

    Sent from AOL Mobile Mail

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  15. So touching your story and so inspiring 🌷🙏👍🏻♥️ Always dear you must think that you are alone ,
    What God’s destiny believe sure will get peace of mind ♥️✌🏼👏 so many miracle happened by God’s
    Grace, you also can get nice cure 🙏😊prayer is a prayer and it’s a very powerful one ✌🏼grace wishes
    and I’m praying for you to get fast recovery 🌷🙏♥️🌷

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    1. You’re so sweet, Thattamma. I do sometimes feel that way. I’m never truly alone with God,…but I’m this particular journey it can feel that way. It doesn’t take me long to snap into realization of the truth~God has it. But we’re human and it feels good to let it go and write to purge! Your support and prayers are precious! Do take care 💕❤️🙏🏻

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  16. I’m no doctor, but I say have all the fries and cries you need (yes, need). I’m joining your hope rope, believing in miracles, and praying for round two of P.R.R.T. Love you, Karla. 💪🏻🙏🏻🫶🏻

    P. S. McDonald’s fries are the best.

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    1. I’ll take your sound advice, Crystal. What do they say, “everything in balance “…I know what’s good for me (and not). Crying is so healing! And fries go perfectly! I love you too and I’m excited to go in for round 2! 💛❤️ 💪🏻 🍟

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  17. Thank you for the share dear lady. I have no doubt a few lovely salty fries, anywhere in a park or view would heal so much. You have arrived in a whole new world Karla and no doubt testing so much of who you are. It’s in times like these that we grow, in heart and mind. But just sometimes those bunch of salty fries connect us back to who we are for a break. And to heal in that a little more, much love and light coming from over here my friend…along with a big hug, lots of prayers…and the power of a smile too. May they help you through this journey into the sunshine again xox 😀❤️🙏🏽

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    1. Mark, your statement “you have arrived in a whole new world…and no doubt testing who you are” nails it. I remember breaking down on the phone with my parents. Breaking down is not something I plan to do,…but I accept when emotions need to come out and I can’t explain myself well enough…to pretend all is “normal” …but these times DO give me strength again to resume a stance of strength that I gain from letting it all out and allowing God to fill me up with hope again! I feel the hugs and prayers…smiles are wonderful and I never ever want to lose that! ❤️💕💪🏻🙏🏻💛

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      1. It is a hard thing to face, simply because before never seemed to have an ending. This one finally brings a doubt in our journey Karla. When I stopped breathing and slid down onto my kitchen floor…for the first time ever I ‘let go of life’. Every other moment I fought for that life, many times in many instances. But I finally let go…and in doing so I asked Gods forgiveness…not for anything in particular, just my journey, I had given it my best shot. And then He spoke to me and said ‘I am the giver of life’. So I let go…and let Him. And I slowly started to breathe again. It changed me…forever. Nothing is the same again because now I know our journey does indeed have a purpose. A hard one but it is indeed teaching us to love, as He does, unconditionally. Big hugs kind lady, I hear you, really hear you, it is a confusing time simply because you’ve never been here before. But His love is right inside you, and mine too ❤️ If you would like to speak any further please feel free to use my Contact page or I have signed up to your Newsletter so grab my email if you wish. Take heart dear lady, there is a great purpose, a very profound one to a love that will leave you speechless…it has no words, just a love so incredibly beautiful, like nothing else 😀❤️🙏🏽

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      2. Mark, I’m in beautiful tears over your experience. It’s no wonder how in touch and insightful…and inspirational you are. “Every other moment I fought for that life, many times in many instances. “….that hit my heart hard. I understand!! Letting go…that’s what it’s all about to truly receive that what is meant to be. Thank you for subscribing, Mark, and offering to be a support. I reciprocate! Prayers and hugs my friend! 💪🏻🙏🏻💚🙌🏻

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  18. Christmas can be a stressful time under the best of circumstances, but when you add all the extra stresses and uncertainties you have swirling around your life, it is no wonder you might seek the refuge of McDonald’s fries. I pray this time will conspire to bless you and your family with sweet reminders and holy moments rather than with worries about the future. Hold those sweet family members close in the coming days.

    Russell

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    1. Russell, thank you. I’ll continue holding on dearly. I think I’ve figured out healthy ways (although fries may not be THAT particularly healthy) to release the worry. The secret is really to live in the present moment God has given us (how many verses could we come up with to tell us to not worry and be anxious?)…in letting go we shed the worry and can smile at the here and now. It is so comforting to have so many friends that believe in the power of prayer! Thank you so much!

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    1. Ananda, it’s so good to see you, friend. I’m so glad this post can bring coexistence with so many. Keep loving and living and being an inspiration yourself. Love and hugs! Stay safe in all your travels and day to day.

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  23. Still praying and lifting you up from afar Karla. I have more inward groans than words as I pray for 5 different bloggers I have not met. All fighting the good fight and knowing they ultimately win no matter what it looks like 100 years from now.
    I am challenged by the honesty of your questions. Our very handicapped daughter has many of those same questions in her good fight (except allergic to fries) that we field almost every day. Just Know you are loved by so many.

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    1. Gary, your response touches my heart. I completely understand inward groans. Although I don’t see you often I pray for your daughter and all of you often. I’m sad to know she’s allergic to fries on top of everything else! I do feel the love of all those that care. It’s the best medicine I’ve ever had. Please take care, Gary. All of you. I’m imagining your cabin, creatures, pictures, snow…all things good! God bless you!

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  24. You are right. You are right where you need to be for yourself and for others. You are saying the right things for others to hear. You are a beacon of hope for yourself and for others, regardless of their health. The beacon means you are exactly where you are supposed to be. And I thank you.

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    1. Pam, what beautiful things to say. It warms my heart to think I can be a beacon of hope. Thank you so much. And for you to say thank you to me is so kind. You’re welcome and I’m so glad to be your friend on our journeys.

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  26. Karla I love you! I am feeling the sadness and the frustration and the hope. Mostly I can feel the HOPE in this post. I am going to the Rosary Society on Tuesday and they are all praying for you. The decisions you are making are hard ones but your medical team sounds like they are doing everything possible. As for french fries – McDonald’s are the best! Enjoy all the little things and the people in your life (and Finn too)! You are an inspiration and example of what living in God’s love is all about. ❤ ❤ ❤

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    1. Please tell your friends how thankful I am for all the prayers. I receive them and your words that are so sweet, Val. Finn and I both thank you for the love and support and send it back to you. Enjoying the little things is so important! I’m glad I sound hopeful. I want my soul, words, actions, and face (lol) to show hope. Some days tougher, but I let it out and hope always remains! 💕🥰❤️💪🏻

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  28. Beautiful and true. Karla, I actually do know two amazing and wonderful women living with this horrific issue. Could you email me an email address I could give them to get in touch with you. I saw both of them for the first time in years this past summer. Both have taken different routes in management and medical choices. If you would like them to get in touch, I can either share your blog if you prefer, or you can email me at janetawel@gmail.com with an email address where they can write to you. And of course I know probably every day you either feel like thinking and talking about it or are just so tired of thinking and talking about it you could scream, so no worries if you just ignore this comment from me. I will completely and utterly understand. Prayers and love, Jane

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    1. Jane, my heart leapt with joy reading that you KNOW TWO living with this! I’d absolutely be thrilled to contact them. I don’t mind sharing my email and phone number. Of course sharing my blog is great, too. If they are so willing to allow this gal to know about their journeys and ask questions I can imagine the comfort I’d receive. You understand those days you get tired of thinking about it and those days total immersion takes place. I’ve been seeking fellow thrivers and this is absolutely a soul-lifter to me. I always appreciate your love and support. I’m a bit lacking in energy and wellness today. But I’ll be reaching out soon my friend. Love and prayers, Jane.💕

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    1. Thank you for such kind and thoughtful words. I’m so glad you can feel the love and hope! I think the radiation went well. What I’m feeling now, a bit “flu-like” and fatigue is quite normal I hear. I have many medications to help. I’ll listen to my body. I hope all is well with you. 💕

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  30. Oh Karla. I don’t know how I don’t know how I missed this. Prayers for all your procedures. The pain and everyone life is certainly a mystery. Let’s FaceTime in a few days if you’re up to it. I miss you.

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    1. Lisa, I’d love that. I miss you too. I had my treatment and my sweet Momma stayed a couple of days with me. Im experiencing typical side effects but happy to have gotten through it. Other than another procedure on the 15th I’m very open! I love you! Thank you for your friendship and support. 💛

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      1. Americaoncoffee

        The times we are living in are historically biblical. To think that a little over 2000 years ago our Lord went out into the city streets, healing men and proclaiming God’s coming kingdom. Here we are on the brink of his glory. Surely there are going to be many manifestations beforehand as healings and empowering men to do wonders in his love. In His love lies the mystery of everything that we need. We have an amazing creator who donated His Most Precious Blood for us to have an ultimate blood transfusion for a new, renewed and everlasting life! More Healing Hugs and Blessings to you Dear Karla! ❤️🙏🙏❤️😇❤️😇❤️🙏🙏❤️

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      2. Amen! I was reading a study from Acts this morning and the words are nearly your words. It’s truth. I can SEE it and FEEL it. Isn’t Jesus the most awesome? He came at a perfect time then and still meets us today if we choose! I love your words, “ultimate blood transfusion”. Perfect!! Even more is when we truly can appreciate all HIS works around us…such miracles. More hugs and blessings! 🥰❤️💙🤗

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  34. Pingback: Fries, Cries, and Christmas – taste buds

  35. YOU Karla are truly an inspiration and your sharing is so real and heartfelt. I am in awe of what you are going through and how you face each day somehow finding diamond pearls whether wet or shinning.
    Man that is quite a list you have going and I loved looking back at your fri- days..
    ” How can I operate in a fast-paced world while moving at a snail’s pace? What happens when I can’t stay ahead and be deliberate about plans?”
    Now this is relatable to me and I’ve no clue with what you having coming at you, you do so well.
    Taking one moment at a time is essential.
    Damn, sorry you have to be going through all of this my friend. I’m so happy you have the support you need and such care from your doctors.
    I’m sending you a double dose of Reiki and love and prayers my dear friend and glad you have been hanging with son.. love you so much and big hugs.. xoxoxoxoxo 🙏🏼❤️😘🙏🏼

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    1. Cindy, thank you so much for this thoughtful response and such sweet compliments. I know my options and choices. That’s why I found your post resonating with me~no planning. I want to do so much. Yet, if I plan I know the “shoe may fall” at any time. Thank you for being here and supporting me. I’ll do the same for you. I’ll share that my favorite doctor is the LEAST involved and I need to see her. She’s a wonderful listener and problem-solver. She doesn’t place me in a category of all patients. It’s so refreshing and needed. I’ll take the Reiki and relaxation. Love you and giving big hugs too! 🙏🏻💕🥰🤗

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      1. You’re so welcome Karla and thanks for circling back so fast. I’m honored to know that my words can be of support to you and yours are to me for sure. It’s wise for you to know your limits right now. Oh I do love this doctor of yours. This kind of support heals deep in the tissues of the body and soul. We need more of this alright. Thanks for the love and hugs and sending more and will do so daily! 💗

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  36. Karla, I am so moved by your honesty and courage. I love it that you are facing your situation head-on and heart forward. I will continue to hold you in prayer. Don’t feel guilty about the fries. Simple pleasures strengthen the soul.

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      1. My pleasure dear friend! By the way please do visit my page also and share your reviews so that I can also improve myself! And if you like my work then you can also support by following me too!💞🤗💕🙏

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    1. Thank you, Joy! You have to know I ate fries yesterday after a procedure! It’s really the little things that matter! I love you and hope you have a beautiful Christmas season. 🎄💚

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  40. I love french fries too — and yes, it’s okay to cry and to let go — of anger, resentment, regrets; I wish you strength and lAUGHTER for the Xmas season ; and if you want a good book to read, don’t read Bono 🙂

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  43. Sweet fry-eating friend of mine how I adore you. Salty tear-drenched cheeks and all. Oh, how I wish I could drive over with a bag full of fries for us to cry over and share. There would be, of course, giggles incorporated too. And I would do my very best to share some of the pain (for you.) What I may not be able to do for you physically I would hold extra-tenderly in my prayer-folded hands to lift away from you.

    Keep asking the questions and continue to wait peacefully for the answers. YOU know…He always provides them. And “I” know…You shall triumph over this. Maybe not in the way our heads envision, but most certainly in the very way our hearts do. We have always shared such a special heart-space together dear friend, please know I meet you THERE each day and look forward to bringing the fries along now, too.

    And only because the drive-thru lane is currently shut-down…instead Holy, blessed hugs go out to you THIS day! Merry Twelve Days of Christmas, Karla! I love you.

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    1. Dawn,…this is precious. I adore you, too. When I read “triumph” my heart jumped. There’s such a peace that we know. Thank you for meeting me THERE each day. The prayer-folded hands, love, and hugs mean so much. I’ve experienced physical pain for several years. Of course it comes and goes; yet, I haven’t known what it feels like to NOT hurt somewhere in a long time. But don’t we ALL experience pain? The power I have to move and do things DESPITE any pain is God-provided. I do know I have determination and grit. Sometimes my pain is self-afflicted by sitting too long. There are many times there is nothing I can do about it, either. I think of our Prince of Peace and every good name HE has-wonderful counselor (thank goodness!), Mighty God, Everlasting Father…and there’s the peace. HE is EVERYTHING! As we begin a new year I’m excited to see how he unfolds the unexplainable to me. In HIS tender and loving ways I see steps he wishes me to take to move forward and hear what he’s whispering.
      I had french fries yesterday. I wasn’t feeling well and there was something about the crispiness and dipping of them that made me smile. Probably memories…and even this post and the sweet replies! I love you, Dawn, and wish you and your precious family peace, joy, health, and continued love and giggles as we begin a new year! ❤️🤗💕

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      1. I shall remain “excited” beside you in the unfolding.

        2023 awaits…all He asks are that our hands remain unclenched…and stay outstretched & open to receive instead. 😘. Jesus, I trust in you.

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