When I was diagnosed with my brain tumor, I was four days away from a trip to Poland with my father to visit my Polish family. Obviously, the trip never happened. Once I was diagnosed, I was wrapped up in doctor's appointments, planning for surgery, having surgeries, and then working on the long road of recovery. I honestly wondered if I would ever get the chance to reschedule. In fact, at the beginning, I didn't even know if I would survive everything.
Fortunately, my Mom cashed in some frequent flyer miles recently and my father and I are headed out in the morning! Woo hoo!
Over a decade ago, my dad was at a hemp symposium in Poland (it was for work - our company sells hemp twine, cord and yarn, among other products) and had the opportunity to track down our relatives over there. They embraced my dad, with open arms, and ever since we've been in contact. On the second trip, my dad returned with my mother, and on the third trip it was my father and my older brother. Now, as the youngest member of the family, it's my turn to go with my dad and meet the family. Several years ago, my Polish cousin Kasia came to stay with my parents for a summer. Now, several years later, I get to see her again and hug the rest of the family. I'm so excited I can hardly stand it!
I remember my parents telling me, while I was at the hospital just before the first brain surgery, that the entire family in Poland, and their congregation were praying for me at a special mass. I was so touched! There's something about prayer, whether or not you believe in God, that warms you from the bottom of your heart. I think it has to do with the love that's being sent.
Now, I finally have the chance to visit the church where they prayed for me. The Priest has actually opened the guest quarters for my Dad and I, which is where we'll be staying. I'm so excited to hug my Polish family, and be in the place where I feel so loved. I know I'm going to be overwhelmed, I get tears in my eyes just thinking about it.
I can barely wait for the time with my Polish family, I'm incredibly grateful for everything they've done. This is going to be an unbelievable trip!
I probably won't be blogging while I'm gone, but I'll be sure to share photos when I get back!
Sorry this post has been all over the place, it's definitely choppy writing, but I'm running around like crazy, packing and doing last minute details. I've also had so much coffee that I feel like a bumble bee, buzzing around everywhere...I should have avoided coffee, I have enough adrenaline surging through my body in the first place. Oh well! Good luck sleeping tonight!
Have a great several days! I'll check in when I get back after the 4th of July! Happy days to everyone! (my grandma's favorite quote)
