I was not born with the natural gift of gab. I was painfully shy at certain points in my life. In environments where I feel comfortable, I can talk your ear off (just ask Cory~I don't think he appreciates this upon just opening his eyes). It has always been a bit of a struggle for me to form relationships because I get so anxious and never spit out the words I want. It is one thing I wish I could change about me. It can be inhibiting. It can be frustrating. I got pretty good at it when I was working as a case worker. Then I stopped working to raise our family and I regressed.

I don't really know why I am sharing this with the world because it is quite embarrassing. It seems so simple to just say "Hello, how are you?" In my mind, I know this. But, I get nervous and tongue tied at times. It is hard to explain. But, there was one woman I was introduced to through a friend recently. We made small talk. Then I'd see her here and there and did not strike up another conversation because...well, see above. I need to get over this stupid road block because I can miss out on some really great people.

Last week, I heard that she found out she had stage 4 breast cancer. Immediately, I just felt sick inside. She has a family with two small boys. It is not fair! I think of how heartbreaking it would be to look at your babies and think all those thoughts you know you would. One day everything is great...the next day can be a life changer.

I have not been able to stop thinking about her or her family. I pray for her. I pray for them. I ask you to join me. I found her blog and let me warn you...grab a box of Kleenex. She is an amazing writer. You feel like you are in the room with her. Hopefully she won't mind that I linked to her blog but I think she'd appreciate the extra prayers and support. You will be inspired by her spirit. You will wish you knew her. In addition, on the right hand side of the blog, you can click to purchase a bracelet made of hockey laces. The proceeds go to the family. I put my order in today and I hope you do to!

http://thewestraworld.blogspot.com/