I Believe. . .

Today I went to a beautiful salon for a facial with an Esthetician that I had never met. I was given a gift certificate by my dear friends Millie and Greta. I've only had a facial one other time and although it was good enough to obviously make me think I'd like another one, it far from compared to the experience that I had today.

I firmly believe that there is no replacement for the human touch and the energy that can be exchanged between people during body work. Individuals can be trained in the technical aspects of Massage, Esthetics, Chiropractics, and other Body Treatments, but that training certainly does not equate to being a healer. I have had some very wonderful massages by skilled therapists, but I have only had one other experience similar to what I had today. Without going into all the details of my facial session (which includes some upper body massage), I just want to share what a profound experience it was.

The woman who worked with me was not only skilled, but had such a positive energy to share. During the time we were together I shared some very minimal details about my breast cancer and her sincere compassion and love absolutely eminated through to me on a deep level. I could feel it in my soul. The work she did with me was phenomenal, but the true healing from her heart to mine is what was most remarkable. I just know that this woman is someone who really cares about others and wants to be a part of making people feel better, which she does amazingly. I felt so good. I was refreshed and felt a rejuvenation I haven't felt in weeks. It was a rare treat.

As pleased as I could be, I went to the desk to settle the bill. Two of the receptionists were overlooking the billing slip somewhat puzzled. They checked on something with one other woman before turning to me to say, "there will be no charge for today's facial. . . its courtesy of Jenny." Not only did I have gift certificate from my friends, but I was also more than happy to pay. The deep peace and understanding I felt after the facial was worth just about anything I could have paid. I was overcome and the tears flowed right there at the desk. It was such a gift, and from a woman who didn't even know me. People just don't do these things everyday. . . or ever. . . and I just feel so honored to have met her and to have been so touched by her.

For my fellow Alaskans reading this, her name is Jenny Moore and she works at Allure Day Spa 258-1122. I highly recommend treating yourself to an experience with this healer. She is an amazing woman. Thank you from the bottom of my heart Jenny!

She also recommended a stylist to cut my hair. I've decided to donate my hair to Locks of Love, which is an organization that makes hair pieces for children who have lost their hair due to cancer and other medical issues. Considering the fact that I am going to lose it anyway, this is a great opportunity for me to do something productive with my loss. I will start chemotherapy 3 weeks from tomorrow and I understand that it typically takes about 3 weeks to lose your hair completely, so I figure that I'll have 6 weeks of a fun new do. I have an appt. tomorrow morning to cut the locks. . . Maybe I'll have even more fun and pick a new color too.

(Fast forward to tomorrow and here you are with the before and after. Decided no on the color, seemed like a waste of money)

As strange as it will be to lose my hair, it really is among the more minor details of this ordeal and truth be told I'm actually a little excited about the future of that side effect. From what I'm hearing and reading, it sounds like most people grow a whole new head of hair after treatment. It could be a new color or maybe even curly :). How many people get that chance? Simple pleasures can be found if we open our eyes wide enough.

So, I'm finally heading home tomorrow evening and I'm really looking forward to it. I miss my dogs so so much. Thanks goodness they have been well taken care of by my friends Cherie and Kirsten. Thanks gals!

I must say that despite the reason that I am in Anchorage, I have still had many great moments here. Its virtually impossible not to when you're near Mike Mraz. He is truly an angel and I just love him so darn much. He has been such a wonderful friend. He absolutely has this incredible ability to listen and to offer me the space and support that I need. His compassion, love, and generosity are never ending and my gratitude for his presence in my life simply cannot be measured. Thank you for everything that you are Mike and thank you for all that you have done for me. I love you!

Today was a good day. I hope yours was too. Take care of yourself.