Battle Souvenirs

I never knew why these were called “Souvenir Jackets”, but apparently it’s because American soldiers in Japan started to embroider Asian symbols (like dragons, cherry blossoms, etc.) onto their jackets as “souvenirs” for their trip home after WWII. Regardless of their origin, I’ve been loving these bomber style jackets as a summer and fall trend and wearing one just made me wonder what would be my post-battle “souvenir” (or maybe more like “war wound” for me) since I just had my 6 month post chemo check-up? I mean, I have plenty of scars and enough bodily changes to remind me of what I went through but maybe my real “souvenir” will have to come later in the form of a tattoo? Maybe?? Hehe. So although my check up was fine, I’ll be having more “extensive” testing done a couple weeks from now, which is the first time I’ll be doing that since finishing chemo. I can’t even begin to explain the flood of emotions that came over me the minute I confirmed the appointment and since then I can tell my mind has suddenly started to wander into the terrible “what ifs” of the results. I know I just have to focus on today and be present, but I can’t say it’s easy. Till then, I’m trying to stay strong, not have too many breakdowns, and keep my head held high!

The Goods: