Blessin' even in our Stressin'

What do you say to strangers? I could start with "hey how are you" (in my best southern drawl), but I should be direct and honest with you as I feel that God is always direct and honest with us. I am Gran Bernie and in 2009 my three grandchildren moved in with me all the way from S. Dakota (they are now ages 15, 9, and 8 years old)! Trust me it was a culture shock for them and a senior moment awakening for me. In 2010 I was diagnosed with colon cancer, had surgery and six months of intense chemo but was not able to return to teaching. In 2011 I was diagnosed with liver cancer, had surgery but could not take chemo. My daughter graduated from college in December of 2010 and moved home to help me care for her nieces and nephew, and to also nurture her ailing mother. My three grandchildren were abandoned by their mom in S. Dakota, and their dad (my son) is incarcerated. This past January I was diagnosed with liver cancer tumors and tried chemo again but could only endure two treatments. The challenges have been very intense and yet very eye opening. Priorities change when you realize there is so much we can live without. I am always, always amazed at the power of God and the love of family and friends. I'm still alive! I laugh every single day in spite of any pain or suffering...but we do have major bills and everyday needs. I am on disability and I have three grandchildren who I want to keep. There is no child support and they are not receiving any of my disability. My daughter, their aunt, has a part time job and uses every penny to help. We want to stay together. We love one another. We know that God loves us most! I as most people do...live from breath to breath...but I am not too proud to ask for help...cancer taught me it didn't have a heads up, I do! Thank you for listening, and I will be praying for any and all of you out there because I've seen the miracles.