home sweet home

I am out of excuses. I can no longer avoid an update. I suppose I am developing my procrastination skills in preparation for graduate school. In truth, I rarely turn on my computer, and I do not feel an immediate or cathartic need to write. Then again, I think it is important to document our process and journey through the worlds of Cystic Fibrosis and transplant. These memories are a precious reminder of the precarious nature of our lives. It is through this perspective that James and I are able to let go of sources of stress, and focus on the happiness of, well, being alive (and being alive together). There was a period of time that I wasn't certain I would ever be able to feel a form of happiness again. We are so relieved to be back into the normalcy of our daily lives.

I did not realize that I have yet to post from home. (My sincere apologies). James and I are back in Victoria. We have been home for several weeks. We are taking is slow, taking deep breaths, and taking it all in. We are filled with complete gratitude for each and every day together, along with our loving and supportive community of friends and family, and of course, James' organ donor, whom without, none of this would be possible. 

We spend a lot of time in nature (as the weather allows), and a lot of time enjoying the freedoms and luxuries of leisure time. We do a lot of cooking and baking together, and are slowly working our way through the collection of cookbooks at the local library. We are still in the mist of nesting in our little home. There is a lot of cleaning, renovation, and organization to be done, all in time, and without pressure. We are also developing a taste for thrift shopping; a habit that cannot be supported on a disability assistance. I will be returning to work on a casual basis with much excitement and enthusiasm. 

My graduate degree has been deferred for September 2014, and I cannot begin in January without re-application. I still hope to connect with my graduate supervisor in the next few weeks, and start to build that relationship. James is also looking at the possibility of non-degree credit courses through correspondence or online courses at the University of Victoria.

Speaking of James, I continue to feel wonder and awe for his courage and strength, and of course, his incredible drive and passion for life. James' recovery has been nothing short of miraculous. I have no other words. Aside from the day-to-day realities of Cystic Fibrosis, and of transplant immunosuppression, James is almost as healthy as after his initial transplant. He has re-gained his independence, and through pulmonary rehabilitation, James is continuously building strength and endurance. We spend very little time in hospitals, and at doctor's appointments, and I don't suspect that will change in the near future. We feel very blessed.

Here are an insane number of photographs from the last few weeks at home:

o, and an article from the Times Colonst on October 14, 2013!