Wednesday, October 26, 2022

Fun and games with cancer

 


It's not all fun and games having cancer!

Sometimes it is fun though, if it works out and things go to plan. 

I played the cancer card with Angie, my sister, who's staying with Mom.  

They asked if they could stop by during Che's birthday party.  

Sarah's throwing the biggest and best party with Krispy Kreme doughnuts instead of cake because Che likes them more, a dozen or so kids play games as their Moms gossip or intensely stare at their phones.

It's pretty idyllic. 

Here's the problem. 

I don't have any beer.  

Sensing an opportunity, I text Mom that Angie can come and I really need beer. 

She can't turn me down because I'm sick but feeling good enough to want something. 

Only the most calloused of sisters would refuse their sick older brother!

So Mom and Angie pick up beer on the way to the party.  

Arriving, Angie hands me a 6 pack while simultaneously grabbing one.  

"I don't drink beer!" she says taking a slug, "but it's hot."

"I didn't know there was beer!" the visiting Mom of Che's oldest "bestie" exclaims grabbing another. 

"Can I have one?" Cassidy asks taking her second swig from yet another. 

I'm left holding a 3 pack.  

The party's a tremendous success as the kids have the time of their lives as my wife impersonates an activities director on a Royal Caribbean Cruise Ship, keeping everyone happily rushing to the end. 

When I open the fridge to get a beer, there's one left.  

"Well this didn't go according to plan at all," I sigh.  

But, it was the greatest day anyway.  

I got to see Mom and Angie. 

Sarah continues to deliver wonders!

And while Che didn't want to talk about her party at school during share time, her classmates certainly did!

"It was the best birthday ever," our six year old satisfyingly smiles pulling up the covers. 


I couldn't agree more. 

"Damn life is good," I say during prayers later.  

"Thanks for this," I whisper aloud when I stroll outside one last time before going to bed too.