Tough Girl

How many times have I said I am going to blog more?? Definitely more than a few.  But, here I go again!  Hopefully not another thing I start and put to the side...how many half done projects do you have?  I am a procrastinator for sure, so maybe that's why I haven't written...no deadline.  

I have been thinking about who I am and what I want to be when I grow up...36 isn't grown up, right?  One thing that I am is a "tough girl."  Well, I decided that's what I am after I posted a picture recently on Instagram and my sister gave me the hashtag #ivDrugsAreForToughGirls

I have Crohn's Disease...pretty much my whole life.  Even though I don't always want it to, it does fit into the definition of who I am.  But that doesn't mean it "defines" who I am.  I have definitely had my "why me" moments, don't get me wrong, but mostly we deal with it.  And I say, we, because I have an awesome team.  My husband can talk drugs, procedures and hospital with the best of them and my son knows sometimes mom is in charge from her bedroom.  
Most of time I look at my disease as our burden that makes us stronger.  I feel like we are all given things to show our true character and help make us into strong people.  Having Crohn's disease has made me smarter, more independent, strengthened my marriage, made me a better mom and I have been able to share my knowledge of medicines, doctors, procedures, hospitals, all kinds of things with tons of people. I hope that I am also able to bring comfort and strength to others going through similar situations.  
I say it doesn't define me because I choose (almost) everyday to not let it; I don't complain, try my best not to let it change my plans and enjoy the day the best I can.  I also allow myself to be sick when I need to, and rest without feeling guilty.  And I know my limitations, this girl is not hiking on a remote path without a clean bathroom!  
I have not always been this positive, but as I get older and wiser, I realize life is full of ups and downs, sometimes you need to say, Crohn's Disease..."ain't nobody got time for that!"
And when I do need to cry about it my sister listens and still thinks I am tough!  



"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13