Happy Friday everyone! I don't know about you, but my weekend is gearing up to being a good, yet busy one.  As I was strolling into work on this sunny Friday morning, I realized that today would typically be another "chemo Friday" and here I am getting ready to start my Friday, and not hooked up to IV's at Hubert Humphrey.  It was a nice feeling, and something I could get used to.

When I first received my cancer diagnosis and was contemplating starting a blog, I told myself that if I was going to do this, I was going to really go for it and be completely honest with myself and my followers.  The plan was to keep friends and family in the loop as to what I'm going through in regards to appointments, along with the emotional roller coaster that went along with it.  Of course it wasn't going to be all butterflies and rainbows, and I know none of you expected that.  This is cancer we're talking about here.  I was going to have my good days, my bad days, and downright ugly days (hence the title).  I know my last blog entry wasn't the most positive, but as always, it was raw emotion showing through.  I was feeling some serious anxiety and expressed some doubts I was having.  A few of you contacted me after reading my last blog entry to make sure I was doing okay, and I thank you for your concern!  I'm actually feeling much more positive these days.  I've been trying to get some extra sleep when I can, and have been working out more too which I think is helping my mood.  I haven't noticed any improvements in the weight department, but I'm sure that'll come with time.  This whole journey has been about taking things one day at a time.  

I have my PET scan on Monday morning, and then have my results appointment on Wednesday at 11:45 am with Dr. Londer.  It should be a packed room that day between me, Josh, my mom, and dad who wants to be there for the appointment.  I get butterflies in my stomach thinking about Wednesday, and how it'll be here before we know it.  Please keep me and my family in your prayers.  I think we're going to be just a tad on edge come Wednesday, and more than likely holding our breath waiting (and hoping) for GOOD news from Dr. Londer!  As each day passes my hair continues to grow, and I noticed a couple mornings ago that my eyebrows are even starting to slowly regain some color.  This is exciting and encouraging to me.  I'm starting to feel like myself again, which feels weird to say because I haven't recognize the person staring back at me in the mirror for quite some time now.   There she is though!  Just a stronger, more confident and mature woman.  Just call me Stephanie Madson 2.0!