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I Could Have Missed This❣️





Life has a way of throwing unexpected challenges our way - illness - physical, mental and emotional, divorce, financial difficulties, career problems, raising children in an ever changing world - the list goes on and on. But throughout your journey try to find meaning - balance if you will, so you don’t lose sight of all the good stuff surrounding you too. 


Thanks to my good friend, Kelly and her willingness to share her story with transparency, I discovered a profound truth: I could have missed this. 


I could have missed the beauty of life - the strength within me, and the joy of exploring God’s magnificent creation. 


Through listening to her story and living through mine, I found myself questioning everything—my future, my dreams, and the simple joys of everyday life. The weight of it all felt unbearable at times, but I knew I had a choice: to let the diagnosis define me or to rise above it.


In the face of adversity, I discovered an incredible reservoir of strength within myself. I leaned on my support system— Keith, my family, friends, and even strangers who had walked similar paths. Their love and encouragement became my lifeline. I learned to embrace vulnerability and to seek help when I needed it (which, if you truly know me, know how hard this is for me). It was during this time that I realized the importance of gratitude; each day became a gift, a chance to appreciate the little things and the big things - things I had previously taken for granted.


“I could have missed this” has become real to me….really real!  Priorities have changed - we no longer have the same goals as before.  The standard “American Dream” we were living was no longer desirable.  Our decisions to live full time in our RV wasn’t just a change of scenery; it was a declaration to embrace life fully. The open road calls to us, promising adventure and the chance to reconnect with nature. We want to explore God’s beautiful creation, to witness the sunsets, mountains, and rivers that remind us of the wonder of life. 


Living in our RV has been a transformative experience. Each new destination is a reminder of the beauty that exists in the world and the importance of being present. We’ve stood in awe of breathtaking landscapes, breathed in the fresh air, and felt a sense of peace.  Every moment spent in nature has reinforced our belief that life is meant to be LIVED - and lived to the fullest.


Through this journey and still today, I’ve learned invaluable lessons about resilience, gratitude, and the power of perspective. Cancer may have changed my life, but it also opened my eyes to what truly matters. I’ve learned to cherish the moments that make life beautiful—the laughter shared with loved ones, the quiet moments of reflection, and the thrill of new adventures. 


I want to encourage anyone facing similar challenges to embrace their journey. Life is unpredictable, and while we may not have control over our circumstances, we do have control over how we respond. Find joy in the little things, seek support, and remember that you are not alone.


As I continue this journey, I carry the hashtag #ICouldHaveMissedThis with me as a reminder of the beauty of life and the importance of living fully!  Thank you, Kelly for introducing me to these words that have now become a powerful part of my healing.  Every day is a chance to celebrate, to explore, and to find joy in the midst of uncertainty. 


I invite you to share your own stories and reflections using this hashtag. Let’s inspire one another to embrace life, no matter the challenges we face.


I’ll close with a verse that God has been putting on my heart.


Luke 12:32 (NKJV)

Do not fear, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.


Until next time…..keep joy in your mind and in your heart❣️


Much love and many blessings, 

Ali 🫶🏼✌🏼

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