Looking Ahead to the New Year

I can sense that this is going to be a year of wonderful new beginnings.  I remember hearing a motivational speaker once say that when everything is in turmoil around you, and when the pressures of life close in; get ready for something wonderful to happen, because it is on its way.

After a series of crazy health issues, Paul and I are celebrating our anniversary tonight with a box of Puffs Plus in front of me.  I woke up this morning with a suspicious feeling in my head and by evening, I am thinking of ways to find comfort for my aching bones and running nose.  I have been able to walk on my foot for the last couple of days and did some grocery shopping, so that is praiseworthy!  

The first and foremost thought I have is that God sees our need tonight.  In the hardships and struggle, our faith continues to grow, and one day we will see how all of this "holding on to hope" has worked together for good.  I'm believing God has spoken in a special way to our family.  He gave us direction, and a plan for Qavah.  We are closer now than we have ever been to seeing His spoken word come to pass. It is hard to believe Him by faith for answers when at times the promises are slow in coming to pass.  In the day of David the King, it was written in Psalm 107:29 "He made the storm be still, and the waves of the sea were hushed."  People might have heard those words and wondered as they looked around, "So where's the storm?"

Fast forward through history and see the word of the Lord.  "One day Jesus said to his disciples, "Let's go over to the other side of the lake." So they got into a boat and set out.  As they sailed, he fell asleep. A squall came down on the lake, so that the boat was being swamped, and they were in great danger.  The disciples went and woke him, saying, "Master, Master, we're going to drown!" He got up and rebuked the wind and the raging waters; the storm subsided, and all was calm.  "Where is your faith?" he asked his disciples. In fear and amazement they asked one another, "Who is this? He commands even the winds and the water, and they obey him." Luke 8:22-25 

The name of the Lord be praised, for it is He Who hides us in the safety and shelter of His wings until the appointed time. I'm looking for a miracle in the coming year;  and it is my hope that you might be too.

Looking Ahead to the New Year

I can sense that this is going to be a year of wonderful new beginnings.  I remember hearing a motivational speaker once say that when everything is in turmoil around you, and when the pressures of life close in; get ready for something wonderful to happen, because it is on its way.

After a series of crazy health issues, Paul and I are celebrating our anniversary tonight with a box of Puffs Plus in front of me.  I woke up this morning with a suspicious feeling in my head and by evening, I am thinking of ways to find comfort for my aching bones and running nose.  I have been able to walk on my foot for the last couple of days and did some grocery shopping, so that is praiseworthy!  

The first and foremost thought I have is that God sees our need tonight.  In the hardships and struggle, our faith continues to grow, and one day we will see how all of this "holding on to hope" has worked together for good.  I'm believing God has spoken in a special way to our family.  He gave us direction, and a plan for Qavah.  We are closer now than we have ever been to seeing His spoken word come to pass. It is hard to believe Him by faith for answers when at times the promises are slow in coming to pass.  In the day of David the King, it was written in Psalm 107:29 "He made the storm be still, and the waves of the sea were hushed."  People might have heard those words and wondered as they looked around, "So where's the storm?"

Fast forward through history and see the word of the Lord.  "One day Jesus said to his disciples, "Let's go over to the other side of the lake." So they got into a boat and set out.  As they sailed, he fell asleep. A squall came down on the lake, so that the boat was being swamped, and they were in great danger.  The disciples went and woke him, saying, "Master, Master, we're going to drown!" He got up and rebuked the wind and the raging waters; the storm subsided, and all was calm.  "Where is your faith?" he asked his disciples. In fear and amazement they asked one another, "Who is this? He commands even the winds and the water, and they obey him." Luke 8:22-25 

The name of the Lord be praised, for it is He Who hides us in the safety and shelter of His wings until the appointed time. I'm looking for a miracle in the coming year;  and it is my hope that you might be too.

Role Reversals

Paul has taken over responsibilities of getting the girls to doctor appointments, and making grocery runs.  I have been trying to mend after a series of health issues.  I have been given antibiotics and also had a  corticosteroid injection into my heel for what is called Plantar Faciitis.   I can't walk on my foot very long before it begins throbbing.  This is a challenge for me. I don't like "sitting" and find my legs begin to twitch when I am inactive.  I have to make this adjustment to rest my foot because I was told yesterday by my physician to expect a six week recovery time.  After reading about it on line, I also saw that middle-aged people develop this problem from standing all day on hard surfaces.

I stayed in bed most of last weekend hoping to wake up without a migraine headache.  During that time I thanked God for Kathryn, who has been facing pain and miseries of all kinds for five years now.  I know her strength can only come from the Source of strength Himself.  She has been helping with Qavah and helping in the kitchen. At times during the day I would wake up to hear her praying over me.  The house isn't decorated for Christmas, and Qavah asked for a horse again this year.  We'll see how the days unfold between now and Christmas.  I have a feeling that Jesus is wanting some undivided attention from me.  Without the ability to perform the traditional Christmas preparations, I have time for Him.  I would not want to miss His Christmas program.

Some Family Fun

The announcement that a donor match has been found for Qavah has led to a long "to do" list. Kathryn spent nearly two weeks scanning a complete set of records for Qavah's new doctors and has them ready to send on a disc. My van passed inspection but I was told that the tires needed to be replaced before a long road trip. They will be ordered and replaced this week. We'll celebrate the holidays and then start the visits to Pittsburgh, Lord willing.

Paul has been busy working on the sun-room whenever he has a chance. We are hoping to have it usable within a few weeks. Today, we visited Mom and Dad Campbell and sat in the warmth of their sun-room which overlooks the valley and the Blue Ridge Mountain range. It was quiet, warm, restful, and pleasant. It gave us a strong desire to get back to work on ours.

One of the highlights of the weekend was hosting a special tea party for Annelise. Qavah wanted to have a special tea for Annelise's birthday, so the girls had their fingernails painted, their hair made into a little "up-do", and they put on their dresses for a memorable event. These two little girls are a joy to watch. Their friendship warms my heart.

Click on any picture below to enlarge the collage.

Match Found

There is a cord blood match that was found for Qavah.  Given her heritage, it was like looking for a needle in a haystack.  The doctor told us today in a conference call that it wasn't an identical match, but it was close enough that we are going to continue on this path.  Our next step is to take her to the hospital where the transplant will take place, and she will have a complete physical and blood study.  If she is found to be healthy enough to proceed, we will come to the place where a decision has to be made.

There were other close matches, but this one in particular, which is cord blood, is already collected and stored in a blood bank.  When we finished our conversation with the doctor, Qavah wanted to know what he said.  When we told her that there was a match, she jumped up and down with joy.  She stated to Annelise  the reason for her happiness.  "If I get this new transplant blood, I won't have to go to the hospital for a bag of blood all the time!"  She understands why we are pursuing this for her, and seems to be happy enough about it to tell a friend.  For now, she doesn't seem to be aware of the risks, so her joy is not diminished by fears.

Our times are in God's hands, Ps 31:15, and we don't know what He will require of us.  We need His help to guide us, to show us the way, and do as Qavah does; focus on the joy and not the fear.  

Update

The past few days I have been working hard on reviewing Qavah's medical records in order to fill out some paperwork for research.  It took almost two days to sort through labs and other data then record everything, but I emailed it off yesterday.  It felt great to have that finished.  I also checked on the status of Qavah's donor search.  There isn't anything yet to report.  The nurse in charge of finding the donor said that it is just going to be a long wait until every donor base is searched.  We continue to wait and pray, and accept the possibility that a donor may not be found at this time.

Qavah has been catching up to grade level on her reading skills and has been learning her numbers and simple math.  For several reasons, including her deafness, she has been delayed.  The milestones she is hitting are thrilling for us to witness.  These are the things that make our days interesting and we feel like cheerleaders as we watch the girls fight hard and win.

We have had a beautiful fall, but alas, the north wind picked up this afternoon and with gusts of 40 mph the winds will strip the leaves off the trees tonight.  I suppose it had to happen eventually because the doctor's offices are playing Christmas music in their waiting rooms.   Time to think about homemade Campbell's soup.

Great Day, Great Weather, Great Ideas

Although Autumn is coming to an end, there is still color on the trees here in Virginia.  When I look up to the mountains I see a lot of deep reds and dark oranges.  Best of all, the leaves that have fallen are crunchy now, and as I step on them I think of my school days in Michigan and walking to school through great piles of leaves along the sidewalk.  

The weather has been warm and mild. Kathryn slept up in the tree house yesterday afternoon.  Paul set up a lounge chair for her and she slept and rested.  Her medication has been changed and she is now on a cough medicine to help clear her lungs, and a new antibiotic.  She was feeling well enough to go to church today.  While Kathryn slept up in the tree house, Qavah raked big piles of leaves and then jumped into them.  At bath time I took her shoes off and a shower of broken leaves fell to the floor.  She laughed as she recounted the fun she had in the leaves that afternoon.

Paul and I have started a new project and we are now working together to make a sun room off the back of our house.  Paul has been reading up on solar heating strategies, and I am dreaming of the winter afternoons when the girls and I can sit in a warm room filled with sunshine.  This new room will have plenty of south-facing windows, and it will be a place where Qavah can play and be warmed by the sun.  Once her red blood cell levels drop below 9 she becomes chilled and usually goes to bed in the winter to warm up with her electric blanket.  The sun room should be a real treat for her.  Paul and I are looking forward to working on another project together.  During the night when we couldn't sleep, we went down to the kitchen, lit some candles, and discussed the building project over a cup of decaf coffee.  From three to five in the morning we enjoyed the quiet of the house, and the time to dream. 

Using the ideas and dreams we have is just another way of enjoying the time God has given us.  Our sermon this morning reminded us to make the most of our days; to number our days, so that we can gain wisdom and honor the Lord with our lives.  It's what we hope to do, and Lord willing, we're starting the project this next weekend.  

Appointment week

After taking a great get-a-way vacation, we came home to a full calendar.  I have been to my own doctors this week for a yearly routine check-up.  The girls have had several appointments with their doctors too. Kathryn had some good news, and some not so good.  Even my car had an inspection, and needed an oil change.  As I have been busy taking care of these things this week, I have been playing a new praise and worship CD in my car as I have been driving.  The words and melodies continue playing in my mind as I am cooking, cleaning, or getting into bed for the night. Words that remind me that God sees, and He is faithful.

If you have a time of prayer and want to add Kathryn to your prayer list, she would be grateful.  Her cough has returned, and she thinks she may have a crack in one of her ribs from coughing.  She is experiencing a sharp pain in her side.  She is moving slower and trying to keep from coughing, but the colder weather seems to aggravate her bronchial tubes.  She has two more appointments tomorrow and should have a better idea of what is happening.  Hopefully it is something that will pass quickly.

We are often reminded that we are not in control of our circumstances.  In times like these it helps to have a song in our hearts that keeps reminding us that these present trials are nothing compared to the weight of glory to be revealed when God shows us His power and the battles are won.

Let the weight of your glory cover us,
Let the life of your river flow
Let the truth of your Kingdom reign in us,
Let the weight of your glory fall!

Making More Memories

We lit our Sabbath candles tonight with thanksgiving to God for the wonderful week we just spent in Florida.  We had a window of time before Qavah's next transfusion, and Kathryn's Remicade treatment next week.  So we left the Roanoke Valley last Friday morning just before the wintry weather arrived.  The further south we drove; the better the weather.  We had a mild week full of sunshine and blue skies.  Paul took Qavah to the beach in the afternoons and the two of them hunted for shells and moved a lot of sand.  Paul took me to the symphony one night, and we went to the Sunken Gardens where Kathryn took over two hundred pictures of blooms and palms.  

Aunt Lil and Uncle Tony opened their home to us and had prepared their guest room just for the girls.  The theme of their room was an outdoor tropical paradise.  It was very welcoming with many wonderful touches of Aunt Lil's creativity that I will display in pictures soon.  We needed to get away.  We needed to see the girls run along the beach and put all of their medical issues aside for awhile.  We had some great times together.  As we drove, we listened to Randy Alcorn's book on tape called Heaven. I don't think I can put into words how precious that time was for us. It was a happy time.  We'll be missing the warmth of the south as winter sets in, but  tonight Paul built a big fire in the fire pit and we celebrated his birthday under the stars with s'mores and hot coffee.  There is a winter-like chill in the air, but the fire and the family gathering was heart-warming.

During our vacation we had so many laughs and afternoon naps that I think we can continue on with our batteries recharged.  I wish I could have taken a bunch of people with us.  There are many families today needing to get away and rest from the hardships of life.  I am very thankful for the rest that our vacation gave us, as well as the Sabbath rest we will be enjoying over the next twenty-four hours.  We've just changed the clocks and are ready to crawl into bed.  God bless your Sabbath rest.  

Ephesians Chapter Six

Our neighborhood church group came over this evening and we studied together, prayed together, and finished out the evening with a hot apple crisp and ice cream.  After reading Ephesians chapter six, we shared the joys and struggles of family life, and what it means to "put on the full armor of God."  It seems that around the circle we could each remember times in the past week when life became very difficult under the circumstances confronting us.  Yet, we were able to recall the times we felt the strength that comes from trusting God for the solutions, remembering that in every challenge we face, the battle is the Lord's.  I love that living the Christian life gives us a spiritual family.  As brothers and sisters in Christ we can share our concerns and then lift our heart in prayer to our Heavenly Father Who holds us and our universe together.

Qavah is a happy girl.  She was given a new wardrobe by a friend of mine whose daughters have outgrown their clothes.  Her favorite piece of clothing is a new plaid cape.  Her imagination has once again been stirred to re-enact scenes from Narnia.  She could be seen flitting through the house today with her cape flapping in the breeze.  I wasn't sure if she was being chased or the one doing the chasing.  It is so much fun to have a child in the house along with all of her imaginary Kingdom.  While Kathryn and I cooked and prepared for our guests this evening, Qavah was Queen of Narnia.  Here we are at bedtime, feeling content, each of us having made the most of this fine Autumn day.

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. Ephesians 6: 10-11

Checking the Mail

Years ago, in my home state of Michigan, I remember as a young girl of seven or eight running to get the mail from the little silver box anchored to the front of the house.  Our home at that time was just outside of Detroit.  The postman carried a big bag and to see him walking up the street was one of the exciting times of the day.  I have been checking my mail again with that same kind of hopeful expectation.  Only this time it is email, and I check it about ten times a day waiting for news of a donor match for Qavah.

I finally sent out an email last Friday asking the nurse in charge of Qavah's case to tell me when I should expect to find out something about a possible donor from NIH.  I got an answer back that a realistic wait would be about another month.  I replied and said, "Thanks, I will stop checking my email ten times a day!"  In this world of "instant" I have discovered something about myself. Although everything happens much faster by way of the internet, I still have just as hard a time waiting for anything.  I've concluded that waiting is just plain hard for me no matter how long or short the wait may be. Sometimes, just booting up takes way too long!  Do you know what I mean?

Wellness of Mind

Kathryn went to her Bible study last night and is planning to go out tonight to the Blue Ridge Women's Center fundraiser.  Last week at this time she was getting a bag of electrolytes and wishing for physical relief.  Seven days later, with the right antibiotic, she is doing very well.  We are all so very grateful for the many people praying for her.  Your prayers help sustain her spirit while everything else may appear to be falling apart.  

Can chronic problems such as the ones Kathryn has experienced be attention seeking?  Possibly, but one cannot fake broken ribs, osteoporosis, complete blood count results, endoscopy studies, and adrenal insufficiency; just to name a few of the events of the past five years   It is one thing to have to live life this way, but still another to hear cruel statements from those without understanding or mercy.  We just studied Ephesians chapter four with our church group and I thought about the words Kathryn has had to endure and forgive.  Kathryn has wellness of mind.  She is amazing, and I am so proud of her.  In many ways she has taught me how to accept hardship with grace, and let the small stuff go.  I am not always as successful as Kathryn, but I still have a loving God working on my own heart.  

I once thought a woman I knew had an eating disorder because of her extremely thin frame.  I discovered many years later that she had a profoundly diseased GI system that was not allowing her to absorb nutrients.  She had no control over her body weight, but simply lived the best she could.  When I found that out, I felt terrible about making a snap judgement that I had no business making about her.  I asked God to forgive me for being judgemental, but have to admit it was a very easy thing to do.  When I hear criticisms directed at Kathryn for the way she is handling life, I have to remember how easy it was for me to make comments unbecoming a Christian.  In an age where people say whatever they like without a thought of how it destroys those who hear it, I think I'd rather live by the words of Ephesians 4:29 and experience the peace He promises.

Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.


The Window from which we look

A young couple moves into a new neighborhood.
The next morning while they are eating breakfast,
The young woman sees her neighbor hanging the wash outside.
"That laundry is not very clean," she said.
"She doesn't know how to wash correctly.
Perhaps she needs better laundry soap."

Her husband looked on, but remained silent.

Every time her neighbor would hang her wash to dry,
The young woman would make the same comments.

About one month later, the woman was surprised to see a
Nice clean wash on the line and said to her husband:

"Look, she has learned how to wash correctly.
I wonder who taught her this."

The husband said, "I got up early this morning and
Cleaned our windows."

And so it is with life. What we see when watching others
Depends on the purity of the window through which we look.

Kathryn is Resting

The week was long and we spent a lot of time at the hospital.  Kathryn had problems with electrolytes and pain in her limbs that caused a great deal of distress.  Through a series of events, which included leg muscle spasms, she was given electrolytes by IV on Thursday.  On Friday, her pulmonologist diagnosed her with bacterial pneumonia.  After just three doses of an antibiotic, she has started coughing productively, and spent today in bed letting the antibiotic do the work. 

Although it was a tough week, we have had some great times of prayer and Bible study together.  The title of my post is "Kathryn is Resting."  While it is true that she is in bed and very tired, Kathryn is resting; in the knowledge that she is eternally secure by the promises of God. She believes God sent His son to die in her place for the sins she could not redeem by her own  merit.  We have had some very good conversations about salvation recently since we are studying Revelations.  That particular book in the Bible speaks of the end of this world as we know it.  By faith she believes that last and final day will dawn, and death will be swallowed up in victory.  Kathryn is resting in a way that goes beyond relief of symptoms; it is resting in the joy of knowing the One Who gave her eternal security on Calvary's cross.

She is a well balanced young woman living her life to the fullest.  She may be able to overcome many more obstacles for many more years, but still, she has one eye on the horizon.  She has found The Cure.  It isn't a secret hidden in a vault, or genetic blip yet to be discovered.  It is in the pages of her Bible from Genesis to Revelation.  It is the redemption plan for all diseased humans.  That is the cure that has made her more alive than ever.  It has enabled her let go of the trappings of this world to embrace the amazing life to come.  The cure is written in John 3:16, and is there for all of the broken and broken-hearted.

No matter which disease is diagnosed, or which miracle cure is found, the end result for all of us in this life is the grave.  No matter how healthy we are in this moment, no one escapes their "final" day.  For those who put their hope and trust in God through the saving grace of Jesus, the final day on earth is just the beginning of joy everlasting. There is such simplicity in the way we are invited to receive eternal security.  We need only to acknowledge that we are sinners and we can not save ourselves.  Then we can picture Jesus holding out His nail-scarred hands saying, "Come unto me, all ye who are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28.  By taking His hand, and accepting the invitation to believe Him, He has shown us how to let go of this life.  As the sun goes down and Sabbath begins, we are reminded that Sabbath is a day of rest, offered to mankind in Genesis, and is a foreshadow of eternal rest, which begins when we are at peace with God.  Rest, sweet Kathryn!

I, even I, I Am the Lord, and apart from me there is no savior.
 Isaiah 43:11

Moving Along

Moving along is easier today. I am able to run up and down the stairs, and accept for a few remaining stitches, my leg is much better. I am very thankful for a good pathology report and the assurance from the surgeon that it isn't likely that the calcified growth will return. I am very, very, thankful.

The bone marrow donor base is being checked this week and we will soon find out if there is a bone marrow match for Qavah. I found out today that matches are made at the National Institute of Health. It shouldn't be long now before we know for sure weather Qavah has that option.

Kathryn is having some continuing problems from the bone building drug, Prolia. She experiences shooting pain in her left leg that often has her awake at night. She is taking more calcium and vitamin D according to the directions and has some relief at different times during the day. She has had enough trouble with electrolyte imbalance, leg pain, and back pain, that she has decided not to use the drug again. We have a small microwave in her bedroom and rice bags which can be heated up and placed on her legs for relief.

Paul and I are working on a plan to take a vacation with the girls soon. We all need a trip to the Sunshine State to relax and enjoy the gulf breezes and unusual birds. We need to wiggle our toes on a sandy beach, and have a picnic with Aunt Lil and Uncle Tony. We also feel sure that our Great God is smiling on us as we continue to wait on Him and hope for miracles.

What's News

Last week I had surgery on my leg.  A growing lump beneath my knee was removed and the surgery took just over an hour.  When I woke up I had someone asking me if I wanted Ginger Ale and chocolate pudding.  I laughed and thought, "Is this heaven?"  When the fog in my brain cleared, I was able to go home and Paul was there to fill me in on the doctor's report.  Thankfully, the lump does not appear to be a cancerous growth.  The pathology report will be back next week.  I'll have my stitches removed next Monday morning.  The first couple of days after my surgery I had time to look at recipes for my two Rosh Hashanah celebrations, and time to sit on the floor to play with Qavah and my grand kids.  They helped fetch things for me, and with their boundless energy, they enjoyed doing it.

The graces that I have received from the Lord over the past week are boundless energy, and perseverance.  I won't say it was painless to use my leg so much, but it was a pleasure to celebrate the Feast of Trumpets with friends and family.  My favorite dish was a salad that I hadn't tried before.  It was refreshing and fruity.  I think I'll put it in my "favorites" folder and pull it out for a big family reunion.  I enjoy using the internet to find new recipes.  I even discovered how to extract the seeds from a pomegranate. It made the job much easier.  Best of all I have felt the joy of being able to celebrate a meaningful feast in a worshipful way, and serve good food to those I love.

SALAD:
seeds from one pomegranate
12 cups washed and dried salad greens of your choice
1/4 cup sugar
3/4 cup slivered almonds
3 11-oz. cans mandarin oranges, drained
1 purple onion, sliced

DRESSING:
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/4 cup white vinegar
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 Tbsp. parsley, snipped
1/2 tsp. salt
Preparation:

1. Shake all dressing ingredients in a tightly covered jar. Refrigerate for at least one hour.
2. Cook and stir almonds and sugar in a skillet over low heat until sugar is melted and nuts are coated. Cool on wax paper. Break apart. Set aside.
3. Toss dressing with salad greens and arrange on plates. Top with orange sections, pomegranate seeds, onion slices and sugared almonds. Enjoy!

When Troubles and Commitment Meet

A popular Christian television evangelist answered a caller on his program two days ago.  His answer was heard around the world.  The caller expressed a desire to date another woman because his wife with Alzheimer's disease no longer recognized him.  The evangelist answered that since his wife had no ability to relate to him anymore, a divorce would be advisable if he planned on dating.  My own moral compass hit true north, and I thought, "What happened to for better or for worse?" I was so troubled by his answer to the caller that I sent the link to Paul asking him to view the news clip and tell me what he thought.  

Paul listened to the story and came into the kitchen where I was cleaning up after dinner.  Soapy sponge in hand, I looked at him with trepidation and asked, "What would you do with me if...."  He looked me right in the eye and said, "When I took my vows, I meant them, til death do us part!"  I was so relieved that soapy hands and all, I went to him and threw my arms around his neck. "I'm not holding a bouquet, I'm not wearing a fancy dress, and there are no guests here," I said, "But I do believe that you just celebrated our marriage by repeating our wedding vows!"  I was so comforted by Paul's resolve to stick by his commitment.  I told him that I had always planned to do the same.  Then he said, "I might be seated beside you reading a book, but I will be there!"

I hope scenes like the one in my kitchen took place all over the world as the words of this well-known evangelist spread through the news media.  There are men and women all across the world tonight, feeding and caring for their childhood sweetheart until death parts them.  Wiping their drool, helping them bathe; caring for the one who is helpless.  That is a picture of Jesus, Who said, "I will never leave you or forsake you."

Wedding Day

Nathan and Elisabeth Talbott are somewhere in the ocean cruising and resting.  There were many photographers and guests with cameras capturing their wedding day for them and we were among them.  I am beginning the work on Paul Burton's life album and will include some of the pictures I took of him last weekend.  The music was absolutely beautiful, and I know Paul Burton had fun playing it.  Aunts, uncles, and cousins pitched in to help make the day a beautiful memory.  Aunt Jackie did another splendid job on the flowers.  Everything was elegant but the day flew by too quickly.  Congratulations to the Sullivan and Talbott families.

Practice, practice, practice

 Michael and Abby, niece and nephew of the bride.
Qavah, cousin of the groom.

Beautiful music for the most special day in the life of a couple.

Qavah and Abby

Pure sweetness!

Three beautiful girls!

Nathan and Elisabeth September 10, 2011

Wedding in Ohio

We just returned from a trip to Ohio where Qavah was a flower girl in her cousin's wedding.  It was all so much fun and I have pictures to prove it.  I will post them soon.  I just wanted to update the blog to let everyone know that the girls are doing well.   More to follow....

Qavah's Creative Prayers

I sat beside Qavah, the lights were out, she was tucked in, and she began to pray.  "Dear God, thank you that the Bible says that when we are afraid we can just go into our Mom and Dad's room and sleep with them."  I didn't hear the rest of the prayer for laughing. When she finished praying, I asked, "Qavah, where in the Bible does it say that about being afraid?"  "Well," she began, "Remember when we went to church that other day and Pastor Elijah said that sometimes we are afraid of the dark?"  

I remembered the children's sermon a little bit differently.  "Yes, Qavah, I remember Pastor Elijah said that when we are afraid, even if we have the night light shining in our own room, it still feels safer in Mom and Dad's room.  Their room might be pitch black with no night light but it still feels better in there".  "Yes," she agreed, "But I feel even better if I wake you up and sleep in your bed."

I took a minute to remind Qavah about the rest of Pastor Elijah's sermon: Jesus said in His word that we can call on His name when we are scared, and at the name of Jesus, things begin to get better.  I further explained that courage comes to our hearts when we remember that He is always watching over us and defending us. She thought about that a minute and said, "Well, I will just come in your room if I get scared tonight."

Don't we all want the Bible to say what suits our own will and desires?   Thanks, Qavah for another teachable moment that went both ways.

This is what I covenanted with you when you came out of Egypt.  And my Spirit remains with you. Do not fear.  Haggai 2:5

Days to Remember

Paul got home Sunday after a long flight.  He showered, shaved, ate dinner, and went to sleep. At nine o'clock Sunday night we gathered by candlelight to have a tea party for Kathryn's birthday. She was so happy with her gifts and dessert; a fresh-baked coffee cake topped with fresh blueberries and whipped cream.  After celebrating until midnight we all went to sleep.

We woke up to rain;  a very welcome rain, since our summer has been dry.  And throughout the day we have gathered for some good conversation and sipped cups of coffee together.  Paul Burton and I worked on a sewing project.  He learned how to use my sewing machine and how to hand-sew a blind stitch for hemming.  Kathryn worked on a computer problem, while Qavah hung around her Daddy like a fruit fly on a ripe banana.  We were a family.  We discussed some recent sermons we've heard, listened to Paul Burton play music, and took afternoon naps.  It was such a special time, just sitting together in our home and soaking in the peace which was plentiful enough for everyone.  Contentment and a peaceful place to abide made our home a very nice place to be.  I treasure these good things and thank God for them.

Mommy Guilt

On Friday morning I had two working vacuum cleaners.  One upright, and one hand-held.  The first one had a crack in the cord near the handle that I hadn't noticed.  As I was vacuuming, the cord shorted out and a large spark followed by smoke came from the handle.  I set the vacuum aside wondering if I could fix it myself, since Paul is away.  Meanwhile, Qavah had the small hand-held vacuum and was doing a beautiful job vacuuming the stairs.  However, at the top of the stairs, she continued vacuuming into the bathroom. In the bathroom sat Qavah's soaking tub which I hadn't yet dumped down the drain.  Qavah decided to vacuum the water out of her tub.  By the time I discovered what she was doing, I found the hand-held vacuum back in the storage closet dripping wet, and a huge puddle on the bathroom floor into the hallway.  That vacuum didn't start up either. After questioning her, I decided that she needed a serious talk about the dangers of electricity and water, and the foolishness of using a vacuum cleaner to empty a tub of water.

After our talk, I sent her to time-out on her bed.  She fell asleep and stayed that way all night.  When Paul called from Sweden, I told him about what had happened.  "What could she have been thinking?" I asked.  "She watched me use my Shop-Vac last weekend to suction up the last of the water in the pool,"  he explained.  I gasped and groaned, "Oh no, Paul! By vacuuming her tub water, she actually thought she was helping me!"  My soul suddenly felt a rush of guilt and compassion.  Paul said, "Well don't beat yourself up about it, now."  But I did.  After the phone call I went to see her and that's when I discovered Qavah had fallen asleep.  Mommy guilt set in big time.  Mommy guilt is that sort of feeling that grabs you by the throat making it hard to swallow. 

A week of being both mommy and daddy wore me thin I suppose.  I woke up Saturday morning and met Qavah in the hallway.  She was smiling as though nothing traumatic had happened.  I walked her to the bathroom for her morning bath and said, "I've been thinking about why you might have used my vacuum to empty your tub water, and I just want you to know that I love you, and that I forgive you."  She looked at me with her big brown eyes and said, "And I was saying to myself this morning that I am going to do better thinking today!"  We smiled and we hugged.  If that wasn't a happy enough ending, Paul Burton rewired the upright vacuum and I finished my cleaning.   The hand-held vacuum dried out overnight and now it works.  

Qavah went to bed happy tonight.  She thanked me for the fun day we had.  She named the things she enjoyed most about the day.  I reminded her that Daddy will be home very soon.  Then we said her prayers together, and I kissed her goodnight. While I would like to think I won't have any more situations ahead in which I will have parenting regrets, I know that isn't possible.  For Mommy guilt, there is a remedy;  asking forgiveness, and then total dependence on God for His grace and mercy.  For all those moms reading this blog entry, I will add on behalf of all of us, "Lord, in Your mercy, hear our prayers!"

Swedish Sauna

Paul called this afternoon to tell me that the meeting he attended today in Sweden was held at a lake.  A large sauna beside the lake was heated to around one hundred and twenty degrees.  The idea of the sauna being beside the lake is that once you've had all of the heat you can stand in the sauna, you jump in the cold lake until you cool down.  That's certainly an interesting way of keeping everyone alert during a corporate meeting.    We are thankful for the work being done in Sweden that will keep the doors open to the company here in Roanoke.  

After another day of meetings tomorrow, Paul will travel by train back to Stockholm, and Lord willing, he will begin to make the journey home.  While that all sounds exciting, Paul told me today via Skype that he has been thinking of us and being at home.  That's fine with us.

Girl Time

Paul is somewhere over the Atlantic on his way to Sweden.  Paul Burton is working for another two hours.  The only male in the house is Gideon and he is curled up in his kennel for the night.  The girls and I decided to get into our pajamas and watch a "chic flick."  Something along the lines of Jane Austin will be just the thing.  We're off to a good week!

Celebrating Life's Moments

Paul and I sat at the restaurant last night, celebrating the anniversary of our first date, talking and laughing about our courtship and his offer of marriage after nine days of dating.  Anyone who really knows my husband knows that he makes decisions very carefully, and weighs all of the pros and cons before acting upon an idea.  He is a typical engineer in that regard, and has a tendency to take his time.  Therefore, we still marvel that after only nine days of knowing each other, he asked me to marry him.  While raising our children, we told them that we would probably not have the courage to give our permission for them to marry anyone after a nine day courtship.

As I was getting ready for my first date with Paul, I was standing at the mirror putting rollers in my hair when I remembered that I had told him our name was painted on the mailbox, and it suddenly occurred to me that the paint might have faded after many years.  Paul had never been to my house in rural Michigan.  I had given him directions and used the name on the mailbox as a way of locating which house I lived in.  With half my head in rollers I went out to my mailbox at the end of the gravel drive to find that only faded letters remained and they were no longer readable.  I quickly ran to the garage for black paint and my artist brushes and painted our name on the mailbox. With only a few minutes to spare, I finished getting ready.  I heard Paul drive up and went outside to greet him.  With a sheepish grin he said, "I drove by earlier in the day to be sure I could find your house, but I don't remember seeing your name on the mailbox."  That whole scene is so typical of us.  The combination of Paul's careful planning and my resourcefulness has blessed our marriage on many occasions.

I liked the fact that on our first date Paul talked about his family, their faith, and interests. I liked that he had goals and plans beyond college; he was planning a life.  At some point during those nine days I had baked him an apple pie, which he still tells me was the best he ever ate.  On one of our dates we went into the corn field to pick and shuck corn for my family's dinner.  None of that seemed strange to him.  We seemed to fit into each other's lives as though it was something planned for us long before we met.  Most of all I like the fact that we share a love and respect for God, and have both been able to confess our sins and ask forgiveness from Jesus, Who died to save us from the powers of death and destruction.  The relationship we share with Him has seen us through the times that were not so laughable; when we had nothing to cling to but the sustaining grace of God. He brought us together, then taught us from His word how to live out the vows we made to Him. When we lit our Sabbath candles tonight, it was with a great deal of joy, because He is our rest. Enjoy your Sabbath Day to the fullest; casting all of your cares upon Him, for He cares for you and your marriage.

A Busy Week

Kathryn is improving, and went to her church small group tonight to be with friends.  It's so good to see her rebound.  She has some aches and pains, but was able to continue on with her day and we had a busy one.  While I took Qavah to the hospital this morning for a transfusion, she stayed home to do a little babysitting and laundry.  Qavah is feeling better tonight after a bag of red cells.  She rode her bike around the driveway and enjoyed the cool evening out of doors.

Our earthquake experience felt like the rumble of a freight train.  When it didn't stop after a few seconds I watched the pictures on my bedroom wall begin to rattle out of place.  Qavah came running into my room and stated that her walls were shaking and that she didn't like it.  Kathryn asked, "What is it Mama?" "An earthquake," I replied.  We stood beside my bed listening to the creaking and rumbling, then a peaceful calm fell upon us.  There was no fear, just wonder.  Kathryn commented, "Mama it was surprisingly calm in our house, and the sun was still shining so clear and bright."  This is the verse that came to me.

I have set the Lord always before me.  Because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken.  Psalm 16:8

Medical Updates

Kathryn has had a low CBC count and heavy bruising.  She received a bag of platelets today at the hospital and hopes to feel better soon.  Some of her blood loss is coming from her bowel, and she is wondering if some of the medication adjustments she has made recently, in complying with her doctor's wishes, may be causing some of her problems.  She took some pain medication tonight which is always a last resort for her.  I gave her the injection of Prolia (used to prevent bone loss) right after the platelet transfusion, but I confess to being a bit anxious about the side effects of that drug.  She was willing to try it, and made the decision on her own, so we hope it works for her.

Qavah has had another round of intestinal problems, and today I took her for blood work after dropping Kathryn off at the hospital.  She patiently endured several needles.  Her veins were so flat that the lab techs began examining her feet and neck for access.  Yet, she left the lab smiling after getting a candy bar, two bouncing balls, seven stickers, and hugs all around.  They certainly know how to keep kids coming back for more.  Although these medical problems are popping up, the girls remain positive. 

Our hearts are always moved with emotion when the girls are having health problems.  Partly because we are sad for them to have to endure so much, but also because they take it so well and just keep going like champions.  It's humbling to see them jumping these hurdles with so much grace.  God is faithful to meet them where they are, and comfort them.  We thank Him for another good day.

August Memories

There are a few things happening with the girls health care, but they are both stable, and I have nothing new to report.  They are both having some medication adjustments and Kathryn is about to try a new bone building drug next week, but otherwise this has been such a great summer for both of them.

August is the month that Paul and I celebrate the anniversary of our first date.  I met Paul one Sunday after church, and he came to see me at my house the next week on a Sunday night.  We went to the Dairy Queen, bought a sandwich and soft drink, and took it to a park where we talked together and ate our fast food.  There was a pretty sunset that night but the Michigan mosquitoes were ruthless.  It doesn't sound romantic, but in those few hours we found that we had common interests, common goals, and a desire to know each other better.  Those years have flown by, thirty-eight years to be exact, and now we are heading into what I like to call the twilight years.

Last Saturday night we were in our room ready to climb in bed for the night when I spotted my toe nails and thought, "I need to repaint them and trim them!"  I asked Paul for his help because a funny thing is happening during this time in my life.  My legs don't bend the way they used to, and my trifocals don't help me see well enough to trim my own toe nails.  So Paul clipped my toenails and painted them pink while we chatted about nothing in particular.  I woke up for church the next morning and shaved the wild hairs off the back of his neck and trimmed the hairs coming out of his ears. I suddenly thought about the fact that we have reached the age when we have to groom each other and wonder why that isn't written into the marriage vows.  It certainly speaks of true commitment to me. We couldn't have dreamed of these days back at the time of our first few dates, but they are here now, and there is something very sacred and sweet about celebrating who we have become.

Oh the comfort, the inexpressible comfort of feeling safe with a person - having neither to weigh thoughts or measure words, but pouring them right out, just as they are, chaff and grain together; certain that a faithful hand will take and sift them, keep what is worth keeping, and then with a breath of kindness blow the rest away.   Dinah Craik, 1859

It's A Proud, Proud, Day!

Do you remember the Disney movie, Dumbo?  There is a scene when little Dumbo is able to use his ears to fly.  Seeing her young one take off, his mama stated with a broad smile, "It's a proud, proud, day!"  Well, the same was true at our house today.  The little swimming arm flotation cuffs came off today and Qavah decided that she wanted to swim without them.  She held her nose and off across the pool she went, kicking for all she was worth.  Of course we had to run for the camera.  I snapped a few pictures because it is a "proud, proud, day!"

Catching Up

Paul and I have been catching up on various projects and lately it seems like we are either working slower or weekends have gotten shorter.  Try as we might, we still have a lot to do before the summer is over.  I purchased a little white board for our refrigerator with ten lines on it.  At the top of the board the words "TO DO" are written, and now our list is centrally located to remind us of our goals.  

Paul Burton arrived home safely yesterday, and had some wonderful pictures of El Salvador, and a dark tan.  His time spent there was productive and he was able to use his musical gifts to play and sing for the children's Vacation Bible School.  He also led the mission team in worship each morning.  Once he had a break in his schedule he went to a local market and met a man there selling little whistles to tourists.  They had a conversation about guitars because Paul Burton noticed the man had one.   During their conversation, the man asked Paul Burton several questions about note reading and playing guitar.  The man brought some sheet music out to show to Paul Burton and he was able to give that local man a guitar lesson right there at the market. The guitar that Paul Burton took with him to El Salvador stayed with the La Casa de Mi Padre mission for future mission groups to use.  After seeing his slideshow yesterday afternoon, Paul Burton went to sleep and we went swimming.

The girls have been well, and enjoying the summer.  I have not posted as many blog updates because I am so focused on using this time to get organized.  The blessing of this time of peace is very much appreciated.  The rest of the world is in turmoil, but our home feels like a place of refuge, and even the white ducks have reappeared and have been seen each day floating lazily on the pond.  These are good days.

In The Middle

Kathryn and Qavah are often the subject of my posts because so many friends and family members are following their health updates.  However, tonight I have an update on our middle son, Paul Burton.  He is on his way to Washington DC to fly out tonight on a mission trip to El Salvador.  While there, he plans to help with a building project and assist in medical exams given to the children and parents at the mission compound.  He decided to pack light but is taking a guitar with him for playing and singing with the kids.  Then he is hoping to leave the guitar for other missionaries to use, or give it to one of the children with musical ability.  Tonight before he left, we circled around him and prayed that the guitar would be an answer to someone's prayer.  There is someone in El Salvador who has been longing for a guitar and will soon have it in their hands. Using us mere mortals is just one way God works in this world.  Paul Burton gets to deliver the guitar;  but we are all just instruments in God's hands.  We're so happy for Paul Burton, and the joy he will have in giving.

Snack

This was a recent conversation between Kathryn and Qavah.  I'm still chuckling about it.

Kathryn:  Are you hungry Qavah?

Qavah:  No I fixed a snack all by myself!

Kathryn:  You did?  What did you make for yourself?

Qavah:  I got a bowl and put eight marshmallows in it because I am eight years old now, and I ate them all up.

I thought about being eight years old again, being able to help myself to a bowl full of sugar treats and not have it settle on my waistline, and I thought, "You go girl!" Maybe I'm too old to be raising a child!

Tree House Birthday

As I have mentioned before, Paul bought our present home and property with the future generations in mind.  At the time we had three teenagers, so grandchildren seemed an idea for the far and distant future.  Here we are fourteen years later with an eight-year-old, and four grandchildren, a gift from Colin and Jennifer.  The children ran their little legs off on Saturday as we celebrated Qavah's birthday.  Her party included Grandma and Granddaddy, and all of her "forever family."  At the end of the day Qavah crawled into bed and said, "You know what?  This was the best best day ever!"  I'm glad she thought so. 

The tree house has an automatic gate closer at the top. Once the children enter into the tree house, the gate closes behind them for safety.  Paul also rigged up a little basket and pulley to hoist up toys and snacks.  The children had a picnic supper in the tree house and we could hear them talking from below.  They were dreaming about finding pirates with their spy glass that Paul made for them out of PVC pipe.  I couldn't have imagined all of this back when we bought this home, but I am glad Paul did.  Sometimes God gives us dreams a size too big so that we can grow into them.  This dream now fits perfectly.

Click on the picture below and a little picture album will appear.  To see a clearer picture, click on the pictures within the album.  We are working on the clarity of the pictures and we'll fix them later tonight.  Paul said that there is not one square corner on the tree house and everything had to be custom fit.  It took almost four weeks to complete, working at it a little bit each evening.  My husband told me that sometime soon, on a moonlit night, there will be two chairs up there with two cups of coffee for us.  Nice!

Tree House

Making Memories

Paul has almost finished the tree house.  I will soon post pictures of that adventure. During the time that Paul was trying to devote to the project, we had problems with the pump and pressure tank on our well.  Since all of our well water supply is used for daily living and running our air conditioning system, we went several days without both.  We used the swimming pool for keeping comfortable and clean.  Qavah may think of these days as some of the best in her life because she had plenty of pool fun with everyone.   

I had a lunch meeting today with friends, and Paul Burton took Qavah to the hospital for a blood transfusion.  I think Qavah sees him as a "prince charming" and was very pleased that she got to ride in his car to the hospital.  We are all making preparations for a birthday party for her on Saturday.  Next month we will have had Qavah for four years.  It doesn't seem possible.  

As the days unfold I have a sense that God has enjoyed watching us play, struggle, rejoice, and even cry.  I feel His pleasure in all of daily life, even in the hardships that produce patience.  The world is in such turmoil that the safety of His presence has been even sweeter.

 Every word of God is flawless; He is a shield to those who take refuge in Him.  Proverbs 30:5

Good Days and Nights

Our air conditioning is now working on the second floor of our home.  In addition to the cool air we have added an ultraviolet light and electrostatic filter to clean the air as it circulates through the duct work.  Gone are the mornings that we wake up with stuffy noses.  The air we breath is refreshing and has the fragrance of fresh air after a summer rain.  It took a long time to work out all of the details, but as the days go by we are finding that it is a pleasure to be breathing cleaner air.  We added the filter for the girls, but we are finding that it is helping us as well. 

Qavah and Kathryn are having some very good days this summer.  We have been able to go out together, and take in some of the fun things happening in our town.  Last night we attended a concert performed by a college choir.  The songs were sung acapella and the harmony was beautiful.  The choir sang Psalms, and even Qavah sat quietly on my lap for over an hour listening intently.  On the way home, Kathryn and I talked about how enriching that sort of music is for our souls. These days are so delightful.  We are savoring them, then enjoying a good night of sleep.  This is what the Psalmist meant by "Let the light of your face shine upon us O Lord.  You have filled my heart with greater joy than when the grain and new wine abound.  I will lie down and sleep in peace, for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety." Psalm 4: 6-8

Busy Living

The girls have been in good health and we are enjoying the summer.  We have had relatives and friends here, and purchased a small pool that we can all get into to cool off.  Over the weekend we had uncles and cousins assisting in the building of Qavah's tree house.  She has dreams of climbing the ladder into the green canopy to pretend she is on a sailing ship.  The idea is taking shape and Paul hopes to finish it next weekend.

Qavah has needed transfusions every two weeks now, and we are concerned about that, but we continue to pray that God will bring healing to her body.  Kathryn had the sad news that her bone scan showed osteoporosis  advancing rapidly and she now has compressed discs causing constant pain.  The calcium she takes is not being delivered to her bones.  Next week another drug will be tried to control bone loss which is an injection that we will give her at home.  While it is sad to see the curve of her spine becoming more visible, she is growing stronger in her faith, and more confident in the written word of God, Who promises to strengthen us for His glory.  We are thankful for these good days.

We are planning to attend our nephew's wedding in September.  Qavah will be a little flower girl.  I have the honor of helping with the rehearsal dinner which includes Aunt Dawn's pulled beef and macaroni and cheese.  Grammy Helen is coming for a summer visit this week, and our air conditioning may be fixed by tomorrow night.  The days are packed with good things and good moments.  Blessings continue to fall like a gentle summer rain.

Fun in the pool

Building Qavah's dream

 Jacqui and Judy playing Grandma Harriff's old pump organ

Some of the family getting ready for saying grace over the meal.  We missed not having Mom and Dad here but they were in Michigan celebrating the Wensley family reunion.

Birthday Partying

We had a great day of celebrating yesterday.  I hardly know how to put it into words, but I feel so amazingly blessed when I celebrate the lives of the people I love.  It felt like Christmas yesterday as we celebrated Father's Day and two birthdays.  Mom and Dad Campbell were here so there were three generations of fathers to celebrate. The party continued today as I have been receiving many emails with birthday greetings.  I wondered how in the world so many people knew it was my birthday.  Kathryn told me at three o'clock this afternoon that she mentioned my birthday on Facebook and the mystery was solved. She then read several more messages that completely took me by surprise.  Two of them came from the state of Michigan where I was born.  Thank you all so much for the "Happy Birthday" greetings. This has been a very happy day, and although it is my birthday, I felt like today was really a celebration of friendships that I dearly love and cherish.  We are continuing the party this evening with popcorn and a movie, which is about to begin!

Father's Day

Father's Day will be especially nice for Paul this year.  I plan to pamper him, cook for him, and let him rest all day. However that is tomorrow.  Today he has a "honey do" list that covers a page.  We are checking things off his list at a good clip but the day is more than half over and there is much to do.  We have mowed, replaced old screens, and are working outdoors to try to get our property back under control.  As I was scrubbing off the back porch I promised him that tomorrow there would be a chair there with his name on it.  

Happy Father's Day to all the men who have helped with homework, pulled loose baby teeth, and let the kids sleep in the middle of the bed during a thunderstorm.  Your wife probably sees more of those sweet moments that she remembers to tell you about.  A father's unconditional love is a gift to the whole family.  Thank you to the Campbell men who take that job seriously.  We love you.

The Close of the Day

The work of the day is over.  I had several errands to run before noon and the girls had a couple of medical appointments.  After tending to those things, we went grocery shopping and came home to straighten and fix dinner.  At the close of the day, a cool refreshing wind has started to pick up out of the north and the house is cooling off.  We have the Lord to thank for this perfect air conditioning. Our bedroom curtains are caught up in the breeze like dancers in flowing white gowns.  The night air is perfumed with the fragrance of honeysuckle and I have a feeling that we are all going to have a very lovely night of sleep.

I am humming and remembering a song my Grandmother used to sing before going to bed.  I hope I recall the words correctly.

Now the day is over;
night is drawing nigh.
Shadows of the evening
steal across the sky.

Jesus give the weary
calm and sweet repose.
With thy tenderest blessing,
may my eyelids close.
(Thank you to my friend Patricia, who found this on the internet.  Enjoy!)

Weekday Recap

Monday afternoon I took Qavah for her routine blood work to check her counts.  It had been eight days since her last transfusion.  She had complained in church on Sunday that she was cold and sat on our laps to keep warm.  She also complained of being tired. On Tuesday the hospital called to tell us that Qavah's labs showed that her counts had dropped suddenly, and she needed another transfusion right away.  We have no idea what caused the problem, but I was impressed that Qavah was tuned in to her body well enough to say that she was uncomfortably tired and cold.

The extreme heat and humidity here in Virginia has had the air conditioning service repair people scrambling to fix problem air conditioning units.  Our twenty-five-year-old air conditioning system has finished its life and will be removed and replaced soon, but the crews are so busy it will be a couple more weeks until they can get to us.  We have been sleeping downstairs at night where the air is cooler and the girls have been camping on the living room floor on mats.  I have been trying to get my work done upstairs in the early morning before the sun heats things up past bearable.  Through all of the minor aggravation of being displaced, I have thought of the people in Joplin, and in Haiti, and have repented for complaining of the heat when they are suffering without a roof over their heads.  God has dealt graciously with us this week.  Qavah is feeling well again, and cooler air is on the way.  We are blessed in so many ways that to deny that by complaining would be childish.  As Madame Blueberry sings, "A happy heart is a grateful heart!"  We head into the weekend feeling grateful.

Briefly...

We had a wonderful weekend with family, and our church family.  The girls had energy, and health, and enjoyed the visit with grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins.  Tonight we attended a local church where a presentation was made on the importance of giving America's Foster children a "forever home," thus fulfilling the scripture stating that we are to care for widows and orphans.  Paul and I were moved greatly by the presentation. We had our girls with us and when the presentation was over, Qavah asked, "Daddy, can we stop on the way home for some oatmeal cookies?" Paul said, "Yes," and that sent Qavah into a joyful hopping mode.  There is great healing of the heart, when orphaned children are adopted and given a "Daddy." When the time comes for Qavah to process her past, I'm thankful that she can factor in the sweetness of an oatmeal cookie, and a Daddy who delights in giving her good things.

Qavah's Reward

Kathryn and I were talking yesterday about the fact that Qavah has had one illness after another since early April.  Her doctor has recommended a therapy to boost her immune system, but we haven't started it yet.  However, she has been feeling very well for the past few days.  Although Qavah has times when she is extremely tired and sick, she remains cheerful and grateful.  I have watched with interest what the Lord will do on behalf of Qavah, who assumes a positive attitude when there is a good excuse not to have one.

This morning I was watching Qavah with her reading tutor. Mrs. Henry has become a very special part of Qavah's life and the two of them were side by side on the sofa reading together.  Mrs. Henry had brought one of her favorite children's books to read, and I felt very thankful that Qavah could be at home enjoying the beautiful morning with her teacher.  After lunch, a new friend came to visit.  Her name is Miss Judith and we met at church.  Miss Judith asked if she could help me take care of Qavah's hair and I sat watching the two of them as Qavah was having her hair braided for the first time.  These ladies came and brought blessing into our home today.  The Lord brought them here for Qavah.  The scripture states that He is the giver of all good gifts.  With gratitude, I thank Him tonight for bringing new friends into her life. They are two of her rewards; gifts from God.

Four Day Weekend

The list of things we need to accomplish this weekend grew to fill a page.  Paul and I are hoping to work together to accomplish our goals, stopping from time to time to enjoy the front porch and iced tea.  Vines and under brush have taken over the yard in the past few years so we have a lot of outdoor work on our list.  

Indoors, Kathryn is feeling better after a Remicade treatment on Tuesday.  Qavah is back up and running after a transfusion yesterday.  The girls have an indoor list of light cleaning jobs.  We are a team, and we appreciate the extra day on this holiday weekend to take care of the things that God has loaned us; especially each other!

As we work on our property in peace and freedom, we will be flying the American flag on the front porch.  We are thankful for the men and women in service to our country and pray for peace, so that they too can come home and sip tea on their front porch.  There are many battles being fought by courageous people across this land and the world. God Bless this Memorial Weekend, as people around our land remember those who died, and those who soldier on.  God Bless America.

Happy Ever After

I was headed home from an appointment with Qavah and noticed that the low tire pressure light was on indicating a problem with my front right tire.  I called Paul and told him my location just in case the tire went completely flat.  Everything seemed fine and I made it home safely and didn't think of the tire again until I had to use the car the next day.  There was so much drag on my car when I pulled out that I thought I had left the emergency brake on.  Suddenly, I remembered the tire.  I got out to check it.  Sure enough, it was as flat as a pancake.  

I called Paul at work in the middle of the day and told him what had happened.  He thought a minute before saying, "Can you go into my shop and fill my air tank..." Panic set in.  I pictured myself trying to fill that tank with the compressor air knowing I am not good with power tools or tanks of any kind.  I gasped and said, "Paul, please don't make me do that."  He laughed and said, "I'll be right home."  "Thanks honey,"  I said with great relief,  "and I will never ask you to cook dinner."  We are both more than willing to stick to the things we do best.  My tire is fixed and Paul had a good hot meal.  Yes, for better or worse, until death do us part; happily ever after. 

Sundown

At the close of this day, we are very thankful for Qavah's improved health.  Today was the first day she was really interested in food, and while she was chewing very slowly, she reported that her tongue doesn't hurt any more.  I have been using all of the prescribed medications, but it has taken several days for the drugs to work on her mouth ulcers. 

We plan to go to church in the morning, and worship with our friends.  There have been many opportunities to increase our trust in God plan last week.  We have found Him faithful.  We now enter into worship with other believers who put their trust and hope in God.  The world didn't end today as it was predicted.  Now we can put the challenges and silliness of the week into perspective as we sing:

Glory be to the Father
And to the Son
And to the Holy Ghost.
As it was in the beginning
Is now and ever shall be;
World without end,
Amen, Amen.

Next Thing

We were home from Cincinnati for just a few hours when Qavah started shaking and developed a fever of 104.7.  I knew it was infection of some sort and she complained of pain at the base of her neck and leg bones.  We spent the remainder of the weekend in and out of the doctor's office and emergency room trying to get the infection under control.  It seemed Qavah was recovering, then this morning she suddenly showed me some new symptoms.  She has developed ulcers all over her tongue that are very painful and she was unable to eat today.  I took her back to the doctor and she is now being treated for a fierce fungal infection which can happen in immune-compromised people.  

The last few days of symptoms have been very difficult to manage.  Qavah's body just doesn't seem to want to fight, so the medications have to do the work, yet they also present problems for her.  This has led me to seek further help for the problems with her immune system, which are keeping her from living a normal life.  We have done our best to keep her away from other sick children, but she seems to pick up everything so easily.  A physician at Duke University has shown interest in this problem with Qavah's faulty immune system.   We are in the early stages of discussion and the test results from Cincinnati will be most helpful as he studies them.  The things I am seeing happen to Qavah are above and beyond what can be handled here in Roanoke, and the doctor I took her to today said as much.    

What is next for Qavah?  Her fever is high again.  Our small group was here tonight and we prayed about this situation.  After praying, we wait.  We'll be waiting to see how God will move on Qavah's behalf.  According to His word, He is able to do exceedingly beyond what we ask or think. 

And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God. Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us. Ephesians 3:19-20