Dirt Road Adventures – Thanks For The Amazing Messages, My First Chemo Treatment, and more DIY and Decorating Ideas
Happy Sunday, and welcome to Dirt Road Adventures! This is where we review all the exciting events behind the scenes, on the website, and the sources of inspiration I discovered online during the past week. This weekly recap ensures you don’t miss any of our adventures here at the end of our Dirt Road.
Hey friends,
First, you amaze me! I’ve never received so many wonderful and heartfelt messages of hope and faith as I received last week. No words can express how blessed I am to have this community that lifts me up daily with your encouragement, both for my blogging endeavors and now with my cancer journey.
This past week has been a blur. I had so many appointments and was preparing for my first chemo treatment. However, I did manage to add some decorating tips and DIY projects to the blog, in case you missed them.
My first chemo treatment went very smoothly without any negative reactions. I learned that – The fear of the unknown is much worse than reality! So far, I’m feeling great, but I’ve been warned that the steroids are helping, and in a few days, I’m most likely to crash. However, I’m trying to make the most of it. To read about all the appointments, the ups and downs, and what I learned last week, click here for – My Cancer Journal
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Adventures at the End of the Dirt Road
This is a look back at all my adventures this past week.
Although I felt like I was on an endless run to appointments, I did add some new posts and updated several during this past week. Here is what you may have missed.
In Case You Missed It
7 Pro Tips For Styling Shelves With Vintage Decor
Have you ever scrolled through Instagram or a magazine and wondered how the designers styled those bookcases or open shelves so perfectly? You can learn how to create interesting vignettes with vintage decorations on shelves just like the pros do with these simple but effective techniques.
Stunning DIY Farmhouse Kitchen Island: Repurposed Furniture Tutorial
Have you ever had a piece of furniture that no longer worked for your home but that you loved and didn’t want to get rid of? That happened to me when we downsized to a smaller home. Instead of selling the piece, we repurposed the vintage sideboard and built a farmhouse kitchen island.
DIY Recycled Aluminium Can Star Garland: A Patriotic And Eco-Friendly Project
Want a patriotic and eco-friendly way to decorate your home for the Fourth of July or Memorial Day? Look no further! This budget-friendly DIY recycled aluminum can star garland is the perfect solution! Easy to make with a few simple supplies.
Vintage Stoneware Crock Decor Ideas: Charming Farmhouse Style
If you want to infuse your home with unique character and a touch of curated, timeless style, consider adding Vintage Stoneware Crocks to your thrifting list. Because they are so versatile, I’m constantly adding more to my collection.
DIY Vintage Italian Pottery Fruit Basket: Easy Thrifted Makeover
Have you ever found a cheap replica of vintage decor and wish it were the real deal? That just happened to me when I ran across what looked like an Italian Pottery Fruit Basket. Upon closer inspection, it was made of resin, bummer! However, not to be outdone, I decided to bring my $4.00…
DIY Dollar Tree Glass Terrarium: Upcycled Bar Stool Project
Looking for a budget-friendly but creative way to display your plants and more? See how to transform a thrifted bar stool into a unique standing terrarium! This easy DIY terrarium project is perfect for plant lovers on a budget.
Adventures Off The Dirt Road
Why Didn’t I Think of That?
There are so many wonderful blog posts each week, and I’m sharing some of my favorites with you today.
There are so many creative ideas, and I’m always asking myself, “Why didn’t I think of that”? LOL
- This excellent article, 10 Reasons To Keep A Journal, is spot on about relieving anxiety and stress. Writing about my experiences, fears, and challenges lifts my spirits. I saw this link on my sweet friend CoCo’s blog.
- And CoCo shared this adorable Tea Basket Idea with DIY Lavender Cones
- This creative table runner, made with tea-stained doilies, comes from my friend Wendy’s creative mind.
- Stacy shared this yummy Easy Baked Shrimp Scampi Recipe that I can’t wait to try.
- I love shopping thrift stores, but I feel overwhelmed at Estate Sales, so I loved reading my friend Jill’s article – 19 Best Tips for Shopping Estate Sales Like a Pro.
- And KariAnne shared some things I’ve never thought of in 11 Ways to Display Throw Blankets
- I love to read and really enjoyed Kim’s article, The Joy of Reading: Building a Reading Habit
- Blueberry Muffins are my favorite, and I can’t wait to try Jennifer’s Easy & Delicious Classic Jordan Marsh Blueberry Muffins.
Featured
I’m so excited and honored to once again be featured in Country Sampler Farmhouse Style Magazine. This time, they featured my Easy Decor Vases Makeover with Outdated Thrift Store Finds.
Be sure to pick up your copy of the magazine on newsstands now.
What’s In My Cart
- I’m not a big belt person, but I’ve lost some weight and find my jeans sliding down. Instead of buying smaller jeans, I decided to add a belt. I love the value of this set of 3 belts.
- I was recommended this body cream in my Chemo Class. Wow, it’s amazing. Check out Udderly Smooth Hand and Body Creme.
- In addition to buying my wig, I ordered a halo hairpiece to wear with hats, and this cute ball cap to try with it.
- I’m also adding this cute beach hat to my cart.
- I’m loving all the cute sneakers this year and added these brown and cream ones to my cart.
- I’m also considering these cute sneakers and they are on sale.
- I also ordered the cardigan you see below to keep me warm during chemotherapy treatment and allow easy access to my port. However, it looks so stylish that I’ve been wearing it out to dinner. You can see all the other accessories and clothing links by clicking the link below or the image.
Thank you so much for following along on my journey. The outpouring of love and encouragement has been overwhelming! If you missed it you can read more details about my cancer journey, read – MY CANCER JOURNAL.
I’m so glad everything went well on Friday! Keep it up! Love your cute fit too Rach! xoxoxo
Stacy,
Thank you so much! I appreciate you for stopping by.
I’m happy your first treatment went well. I’m sending tons of prayers. I’m cheering you on.
Cindy,
I appreciate this so much. Thank you for cheering me on.
I am happy all went well on Friday and I’ll keep the prayers coming. Keep the faith at the end of the day that is what we have. Now to the tin stars oh my. I love these and thank goodness you mentioned the punch otherwise I would end up in Urgent care cutting them by hand. LOL Have a good week and remember no fear you are blessed and loved.
Diana,
I appreciate your prayers and words of encouragement. I’m so glad you liked the star garland and yes get the star punch. It can be used for so many projects. It seems there are stars for all occasions. I appreciate you so much and god bless you. Have an amazing Sunday.
I am so sorry that you have to go through this, Rachel. I promise to pray for you each day. Thank you for sharing this so that we know what to pray for.
I am a breast cancer survivor of nineteen years. I can say with complete certainty that the Lord took care of every detail of my care in every way. He did not allow me to stay down about anything and used so many people to help me.
I was sent the following verse early on and I clung to it. I pray it helps you too. It is Isaiah 43:2.
Journaling helped me as well: each day I could rehearse the miracles God gave me that day, the outpouring of love from my family and friends, and the blessing of His promises.
Love,
Suzanne
Suzanne,
Thank you so much for sharing with me. I’m so blessed to have you praying for me. I know I can get through this with so many wonderful and inspiring people cheering me on. I appreciate the bible verse also. I will cling to these inspiring words. God Bless you!
Thank you for sharing your journal. I admire your faith and positivity as you start this journey and will follow along all the way. Lots of love and prayers are being sent your way!
Peggy,
Thank you so much. I appreciate the prayers and I’m so blessed to have your love and support. I’m feeling a little unsettled today and your kind words lift me up. God bless you and I hope you have an amazing Sunday.
Keeping you and your OC journey in my prayers.Angels bless and may you respond to the chemo quickly.
I appreciate this so much. All your prayers are appreciated. God bless you.
Sending prayers that the chemo is doing what it’s supposed to and that your body tolerates it well without negative side effects! Also praying that the great healer will completely remove this cancer from your body and that you will be a blessing to so many with your platform. Big hugs, Rachel. <3
Anne
Thank you for your prayers and words of encouragement. I appreciate you for all your good thoughts and friendship.
Just got caught up on DRA and your cancer journal, Rachel. I’m thankful your first treatment went as well as it. I’ve been praying for you! I’m deeply grateful you mentioned your near-normal bloodwork too. 3 of my family members all had the same experience in that they had near-normal bloodwork and symptoms that were relatively easy to explain. All 3 were in their 70s when they were diagnosed with cancer so I’m beyond thankful you’re sharing your journey and reminding us all to stay viligent about our health even as busy, vibrant and thriving women. Excited you’re finding solice in journaling too. It really helps and I know your written and typed words are going to help so many of your friends, family members and readers. Thank you for sharing the journaling link and the link to my gift basket as well. It’s always fun to send a little pick me up no matter what the circumstance. Sending you hugs and continued prayers for strength, widsom and peace, CoCo
CoCo,
Thank you so much for your encouragement and prayers. Yes, when I saw you had tagged the article about journaling, I had to share it. It’s amazing what a weight is lifted by writing down your feelings. Good or bad I always feel better after expressing how I feel. And yes, to believe that you are perfectly healthy one minute and then have the rug jerked out from under you the next is hard to comprehend. I hope your family members were able to catch their cancer early enough. I’m so blessed to have you cheering me on. God bless you!
Cheering you on Rachel! A day without your Adventures is a bit dull, so I always enjoy hearing from you. Your creativity and ideas are fun, educational and inspiring. I’ll be keeping you & Brad in my thoughts and prayers during this journey. Lifting you up for complete healing and we are here whenever you can be as well. Go Rachel!!!
Hugsnlove!
Katy,
oh what a sweet message. I can feel your enthusiasm and positive thought pouring from my computer screen. I appreciate you so much for reaching out and encourageing me. Have a blessed day.
A friend of mine going through chemo decided to go outside her comfort zone with her wig. She got a coppery coloured sleek wig that looked great on her. Her usual hair was a nondescript brown.
I’m glad you had a port placed. It will make the chemo days so much easier.
Hang on tight to those around you; you are loved.
Denise,
Thank you for your kind words of encouragement. I am so blessed to have so many cheering me on and praying for me. Have a blessed day.
Gods Blessings to you! I pray that God gives you strength and eases fear so you can get through this. One day at a time. There are always blessings and gifts in the storm. It looks like you have already found some.
Lee,
Yes, so many blessings. I appreciate your words of encouragement and your prayers. I appreciate you reaching out! Have a blessed day!