Yesterday I woke up, wrote my bit, turned off my computer, got dressed and watched the snow storm roll in. I am not a super emotional person. Happiness, being productive, finding joy in the little things and doing my own thing, I’m really good at. Drama, sadness, or being able to say thank you when somebody says something nice to me, not so much.
But I know I need to say thank you.
Thank you for all the wonderful and supportive, caring and funny, sad and personal comments you left on the blog and Facebook yesterday. And to those who reached out via text, the contact page or sent me a personal email.
Reading everything you wrote has been overwhelming, but knowing so many of you have gone through something similar {or know someone who has, or just understands my frustration with getting from point A to point B} your words have made me feel better about the whole situation.
I’m a fighter. I know that. And I really think it’s going to be okay.
I just wish I could fast forward through this part of the story.
But that’s life I guess. One day at a time.
So THANK YOU. From the bottom of my heart. Knowing you’re here means the world to me.
~Mavis
Charla says
❤️
Terena says
That’s really all that needs saying.
Kay Perigo says
I have my own cancer story. Different from yours. All cancer stories are unique. Things learned:
• listen to your body and respond to it.
• when you are tired, rest. You will need a lot of rest.
• don’t put too much pressure on yourself. One day at a time is key.
• I think this one will be hard for you. Let others do for you. People will want to help. Let them. It is a gift of love accept it.
As Mary Chaplin Carpenter says, “Stay mighty”. You’ve got this.
Deanna L Allen says
I agree 1000% with these word!
Rynda Gregory says
YES! Peace to you Mavis!
Michele Ross says
God Bless and speedy recovery.
Laura in TX says
I have been reading your blog and following your adventures for years. It is a joy, after reading the news, to pop over and see what is going on with you! Your productive example is often the nudge I need to get busy. Thank you for sharing so much on your blog, including your thyroid cancer news. I could not hold back the tears. Please consider this a Texas size virtual hug! Wishing you all the best during this difficult time.
Karen says
Hope you really do feel the love
Kathy says
Mavis, always keep up the good fight. I recently (March 2020) had a hip replacement. I knew after a few months something was wrong . I told my surgeon I was not getting better on 2 visits. He told me my X-ray looked perfect. He gave me a script for more physical therapy and see the pain management doctor for injections. My gut told me this isn’t right.. long story and 9 months later I found a wonderful orthopedic surgeon who saw something on the X-ray and ordered an MRI. The femoral stem that connects to my thigh bone wasn’t fitting correctly. I just (2 weeks ago) had a hip revision. Doctors, surgeons are wonderful but sometimes we find some that won’t listen or go the extra mile. I learned my lesson, keep fighting for your health. You’re a fighter I can tell, my thoughts and prayers go out to you.
Kathy
Linda T says
And why is it, when a doctor does a crappy job, they don’t have to give you your money back? Can anyone explain this to me?
We pay thousands, sometimes hundreds of thousands for the original job, then have to pay again after we have endured pain and misery from the first job. To me, this is robbery, plain and simple.
Julie Radford says
They should put right the botched job and give you your money back. At least here in England we don’t have to pay for it if we dont want
Carol says
Sending love and healing thoughts to you Mavis.
Jane says
Pretty soon you’ll be writing a post looking back and talking about being on the other side of this challenge. ♥️ You’re in my prayers!
Stephanie in Utah says
Cancer sucks. I’m so sorry you have to go through this. It must be so hard to deal with, mentally, emotionally, and physically. Thanks for being vulnerable with us. Good for you for being persistent in seeking help. Keep it up and do what you need to take care of you. Sending positive and healing vibes.
Sue says
Totally missed your post yesterday. I had a total thyroid removal 24 years ago. Best advice I can give you is make sure you are started on a good dose of thyroid replacement meds. Most doctors want to start at 75, and seem reluctant to increase it, but that’s a started dosage. It can take a while to find the right dosage for you. It took almost a year on NPThyroid to get to mine.
RebekahU says
Sending you hugs !
sdsb says
I had just left the Dr. office from a thyroid appointment and headed for tests when I read your post, I had to take a moment. I am so sorry for your diagnosis but if anyone has the mindset and positive outlook to get through something like this – it’s definitely you – ” the extraordinary typical housewife”. My heart broke for you having to tell your parents – I know that was so hard – you are all in my prayers. I know you got this and as you can see you are loved all around the world. Happy Holidays Mavis!
Martine says
I missed your post yesterday and want to add my wishes for a complete and total recovery from this. Having had breast cancer I know the fear and worry that comes with the diagnosis. I’m so glad you fought so hard to get to the diagnosis. Well done you. I’ve also had a lump removed from my thyroid many years ago and other than an impressive scar, I recovered very quickly – that test for cancer was fortunately negative. Take care of yourself and poor hubby! Sending love, best wishes and a virtual hug. x
Sarah S says
Mavis, I am so sorry to hear this. Stay strong and I know you will beat this.
Wendy says
Oh, I read this post first and then I had like what What WHA???? Read The Other Post and understand. What a wonderfull person you are. Being persistant and not let go. I bet Lucy is mighty proud. Your HB is a Lovely man. I hope your operations will be soon, go well and things will be as serene as the winter wonderland on your photo. Love and hugs from Holland.
Deborah Moore says
Stay Strong & speedy recovery
Joely says
You are a rockstar! Get well soon.
DeLaura King says
I’m praying for you every day.
Peg says
This post made me tear up more than the last one! All the best to you and your family.
Alli Aplet says
Mavis, you are so special to so many of us, even if we don’t comment often (like me!). I was just telling my oldest friend the other day about you and I called you my friend Mavis and she got a real laugh out of that. I think of you that way, we are close to the same age and same stage in life (I’m 48) and I think I figured out the other day that I have been following you blog almost since the beginning (which I did not realize). I just wanted to say that it is so encouraging to see the little community you have built and how many people care about you and each other here. Makes me happy. I appreciate how you share your life with us and encourage us in so many ways as we watch and read about your and your family’s adventures. I will be praying for you and your family as I am sure many are!
OregonGuest says
Didn’t see yesterday’s post until just now. Sending you love and gratitude for all you have given us readers over the years. You are too feisty and motivated to not overcome this challenge. I’m praying for you.
Cindy R says
My friend, who also happens to be a family doctor, had a similar story. He felt a swollen gland under his chin area, he had another doctor feel it who said you probably picked up strep or an inection do a round of antibiotics nope lump was still there. He had a bad feeling so he went to see an ENT doc who did not see anything but decided to do a biopsy of his tonsil, the biopsy came back positive for cancer. After a year of radiation and chemotherapy my friend came through with flying colors. It has been about 5 years now and he is doing great. I am glad you have posted your story because it is a good message to all of us to be proactive about our individual health and to speak up and be heard! Thank you and I wish you well! By the way my grandmother had thyroid cancer, had her thyroid removed in her 50s, took medication each and every day, she lived to be 92!
Billie Gann says
I had to have a complete thyroidectomy about five years ago. I will be praying for you and your family.
Judy says
Praying for you Mavis – I am a 27 year cancer survivor – you are doing everything right – this soon will pass. Hugs!
Kim says
If you need a laugh, a few years ago a nurse was having a hard time getting my IV started before my colonoscopy. She looked up and saw that my hubby was about to pass out even though he wasn’t watching. I told the nurse. Maybe he should lay in this bed and I could sit in the chair as she started a second attempt at the IV.
So, your HH is not alone in the weak stomach syndrome. Husbands………ya gotta love ’em!
Rachel says
Beautiful picture. That is the beauty of life.
Be you and take the days as they come.
Thoughts and prayers are with you and your entire family.
Kim says
<3
Margaret Hudgins says
Stupid question here Kim, from a very senior senior. What does <3 mean? (asking for a friend) ha!
Richelle says
Margaret,
The symbols <3, when rotated 1/4 turn to the left, resemble a heart. ❤
Best wishes,
Richelle
Mary Wong says
Sending hugs and prayers!
Penny says
Mavis, so sorry to hear this news. But if anyone can beat this, it is you. You stay strong and know that there are so many people pulling for you. We love you and the HH and know you will fine. Lots of hugs!
Lindi Turnipseed says
oh Mavis.anything I could say has already been said. You and HH are in my prayers. I’ve been following you for years also!!!! I look for your posts every day!! hugs from Mississippi (I have never been to Maine). Lindi
Gwenn says
You got this Mavis! You have your family, friends, Lucy (and us) behind you, supporting you and keeping the faith. Your story is a powerful reminder to trust your instincts, listen to your body and keep pushing. You are your best advocate.
Robbin says
Sending prayers!! Pups do a wonderful job of caring for us!! Lots of hugs for Miss Lucy as she handles the situation! Hugs to you!!
Karen says
Best Wishes Mavis! Wishing you a rapid recovery and a quick reset to the best TRH prescription. You all hang in there and enjoy the holidays.
Pj Truman says
We tune in every day to see what you’re up to, follow your life adventures and be inspired. We’re here through thick and thin and will be here for you through this unexpected detour in your life. ❤️
Joan S. says
Just to say you are in my thoughts and prayers. (((Hugs)))
HollyG says
I’m glad you had the lovely, peaceful quite of a snow storm yesterday. It’s always my favorite weather when I need to recenter myself and gather my thoughts. I wish you, Handsome Husband, monkey and bird as much strength and joy as there are flakes in that storm.
Leslie says
Not to up anxiety or anything, but I hope you have gotten your first colonoscopy. I started getting mine around 50 and my familial links aren’t as close as yours.
That said, thyroid cancer is a ‘good’ cancer to have, even if unfortunate. I was told that during many tests after I had my first child about 32. I developed a goiter, which is apparently not uncommonly related to pregnancy, although my OB didn’t seem to know that. Anyway, no cancer but lots of screening, etc.
Take care.
Fla native says
Stay strong and I hope you kick ass.
linda jackson says
This is a tough story but I did enjoy the part where your husband passed out. My husband passed out right as I was giving birth to my daughter, and everyone rushed to get him off the floor. I was kind of on my own for those last pushes, but what a great story it has been through the years. Finding funny in the midst of scary. Bless his heart.
You are a strong woman, and keeping your good attitude will get you there
Christine O says
Winter white….what a beautiful peaceful picture!
i’m so happy you and HH have such a beautiful place to take it all in just one day at a time. That’s a good way for us all to go about life.
Hope you have a wonderful weekend together!
Diane says
Mavis,
I just want to add my very best wishes for a successful surgery and adjusting to the right medication. Cancer is a very scary word, but your doctor and other people on this post seem to say that at least this one is very treatable and you can expect to live a very long, fulfilling life. You have an indomitable spirit and a loving family to help you through the rough spots. You touch more people’s lives than you know. Many have been the times that I pulled up your blog soon after waking up to help me have a bright spot to get through some rough days. God bless you and your family.
Melissa says
My heart truly goes out to you, especially after going through this with your brother!!! I’m a uterine cancer survivor and my husband had surgery for prostate cancer this summer. We’re both fine but it takes awhile to heal emotionally. Im so glad you live in such a beautiful place. Being out in nature makes such a difference. Sending lots of good vibes and love!!!!
Kathleen A. Welch says
Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers Mavis !
Natasha Rodriguez says
Sending love and well wishes! I find so much joy reading your blog, thank you for sharing your journey. I found a book called Eat to Beat Disease by William Li, maybe worth adding to your list. I enjoyed learning about all the new research findings in it.
Rebecca Anne says
Mavis,
You. Are. Loved.
Thank you for sharing this news with us. Thank you for the community you’ve built. You help me to stay grounded, motivated, inspired, and to keep seeing beauty in the simply things. Thank you for being YOU! Sending prayers and love to you and HH!
You’ve given me the boost I needed to go get my bits checked out too.
Carolina Cooper says
I did read what you posted yesterday, but wanted to wait to write until I had thought through what to say. Way back in 2009 I was looking to save $ after being laid off from my job, I found you when you were still a coupon wonder woman. I was hooked on One Hundred Dollars a Month from the start. Today I was doing my budget on some lovely budget sheets that you posted way back YEARS ago and that I have always printed out and used. They have a lovely design across the top. I still use them, all of these years later, and think of you when I see them. You inspired us to get chickens and I thank you for that and the joy that they bring to us. Your posts about Amazon got me to check it out, I was hooked and have been using it ever since. And I know I have thanked you before, but need to thank you again for my win of the necklace last year—and it being a treasured gift for my granddaughter’s 18th birthday. And last, but not least, I thank you for the 2011 & 2013 references on the H H that you posted with your cancer announcement. I went back and read them and they did put a smile on my face. Thank you for being you, Mavis. Take care and heal—there is lots more of Maine to be explored when summer comes again! Winter well as they say in Maine.
Emma Benefiel says
Mavis,
I have been reading your blog for years and still the one I check every morning. I was stunned when I read the I have cancer blog. I sent my mom a text and said “Mavis, has cancer” she knew who I was talking about. Your blogs, bring me so much joy and laughter. Cancer sucks, I just hate it. Please know you and your family are in my family thoughts.
Janet says
I missed your post for some reason until today.
Sending you much love and peace.
It is timely to say thank you for your wonderful positive blog and the joy I personally have received from your regular posts.
NeeNee says
Mavis
I had a friend who had the same cancer and did very well and still is hey if you have to get cancer at least you got one that is very treatable and has a high success rate!!!
I think the hardest part for you will be getting out of your pjs and leaving your little paradise going to appointments but just think of it as only a few days out of our life better now than in the summer when you can be enjoying the time in your kayak exploring right!! It will all be behind you before you know it!!
I enjoy reading your blog wow you have so many followers
JoAnn says
Sending you love and wishing you a speedy recovery.
Dianne says
What a great picture. I could see myself in flannels, blanket, hot spiced spider and a good book staring at that scene all afternoon! Beautiful spot. Enjoy!
Laura Z says
Sending up daily prayers. So glad that you are in your peaceful forever home when dealing with all of this.
Julie says
Sheesh, what a day to miss reading your blog! I’m so sorry! Please keep us updated as much as you feel comfortable. Hug your puggle, hook a rug, and enjoy your beautiful, white scenery. I’ll be praying for you!
Sandy says
Mavis, I’m wishing you healing, calmness, and happiness. You bring all of us such joy every day and all that goodness will come back your way. You’ve always tackled and conquered all the obstacles and projects in your life and you will with this one too! Hang on to your Handsome Husband and we will all be here with you on your journey. Merely say what you need and I’m sure we will all be rushing to help you.
Tami Lewis says
You are loved ❤️
Cindy Howard says
Oh my! I missed yesterday & started reading today & had to go back & get caught up. Thank you SO much for teaching us (me) that it’s ok (reasonable, perfectly fine, absolutely necessary) to stand up for ourselves like that!!! I love you, and your guts! And I’m adding my prayers to the mix that you’re going to come out of this just fine. Shine on, my awesome virtual friend!!
Cindy Hamilton says
Thoughts and prayers for you as you go through this difficult journey. Know we are here to help with encouragement, prayers, and many many virtual hugs. We got you!
Janet says
I have read your blog for years (silent lurker here); you have always added a spot of fun or joy or motivation to my day with your many adventures.
Adding you to my daily prayer list and remember that “weeping may endure for a night but joy comes in the morning.”
Blessings to you and your whole family. Take courage.
Kathy W says
I have been following your blog for many years and I still look forward to what you post each day. You are an amazing woman and with your outlook on life you will beat this. I have added you and your family to my prayer list.
andrea says
I’m a day late reading your news. I’m so sorry you got way way way fewer comments on your important news compared to your give aways. I’m sure everyone who didn’t write is thinking warm and supportive thoughts deep in the heart—maybe they just don’t know what to say. Hey….. You go girl! It’s hard to take one day at a time but sounds like the last few years have been good training in prioritizing what’s truly important to you, and staying happy by appreciating the little things. May you sense light in this darker time. Oh, and tell your HH that he’s in good company–my dad and bro–both totally amazing strong handsome and steady men—faint at ANYTHING to do with needles/medical procedures!
JB says
Hello, I stumbled across your blog while looking for information on seeds. I wanted to write in and reassure you about your diagnosis. A friend of mine had thyroid cancer and her doctor told her that its “the best cancer to get, if you have to get cancer” because most of the time it stays contained, and is usually caught before it spreads much. So while the treatment isn’t fun, the prognosis is usually fine in the long run, and the cancer is often curable. I am sorry that you have to go through this process, though.
Joanna says
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️we are praying for you!!
Love from Michigan!!
Kelly says
Sending peace and love to you and your family Mavis. Rest and love are what you need.
Rita says
Your ability to communicate your experiences is like a public service announcement. Thank you for sharing these most personal happenings. I am sad to know that you are going through this; it is serious and worrisome.
You have a lovely family and a very large and scattered circle of friends to whom you are a fun and spunky inspiration. Thoughts and prayers won’t heal you but the doctor will. Good luck, dear. I have no doubt that you will know just how to deal with everything.
Lilypad says
I’m just seeing this now, I’m a bit behind the times. I’ve been reading your blog for ages. Your take on life is always fascinating and enjoyable. Sending you a big hug from your old state, Washington. You got this.