I went to check the school lists today. I always go the first day they are up...always! But I have not felt like walking from my car to the school, so I put it off until today! Sam has Mrs. Huffman. Will grew up with Gray and has been friends with him since the 2nd grade! We love her, and we know she will make a huge difference in Sam's day! Sam has not wanted to talk about school. Why talk about something you always dread? But he has said a couple of things in the last two days. I got most of his shopping done at Target while Peter and Andrew were looking at Lego sets and Nerf guns with Sam. I had printed the list before we went last week. I know I have a handful of things to get, but the list is not nearly as long this year! I ordered a couple of new shirts and almost have his room put back together. We were going to put bead board on his ceilings but will have to do that in the next month or so. I did get his room painted, and so it's ready to be finished. Once his furniture is all in and arranged and drawers are organized, he will be ready to get ready each day!
I also ordered Andrew more pj's, since I could not find many options here! They should arrive soon, and we will be about ready with what he needs for his hospital stay. I ordered the Robert Whitlow movies that I have not watched in years. Hopefully, he will feel like studying; but we are ready for rest time too - books on the Kindle for me and easy to watch DVD's for him.
We ordered Sam's birthday present and Will's new Carhartt pants. Since I have not felt like doing much more than I need to do, ordering has been a lifesaver for these upcoming birthdays and appointments.
Andrew gave Sam one of his ASU backpacks, so we did not have to get a new backpack this year either. His last one had a zipper problem. We have to be able to get to his emergency snacks and meds, so that would not do! I think when Sam carries Andrew's old backpack, he seems much taller.
Andrew starts classes Tuesday after Sam starts Monday. Peter starts his internship soon and should be ready to go! My car goes into the shop for its new bumper on the first day of school, so Andrew will loan his truck to me. That thing needs a good bath and vacuuming, and I hope to be myself by then and to get all of that done for him!
We are having a birthday party at Boulder Look after Pete preaches at Providence on Sunday, August 27. We will be having special prayer before Andrew goes into the hospital on Wednesday, August 30th. We are praying for a safe stay and for a quick stay. That means Andrew needs to have seizures that they can track and get information from as quickly and safely as he can. I dread it, but I am hopeful it's something that will have a good outcome.
Thank you for praying for us. For our family. We will be at Three Forks Baptist Church this coming Sunday, August 20, filling in. We are thankful God has given Pete opportunities to preach the Gospel right now. As we deal with these earthly trials, we want to make sure we are keeping our eyes up on things eternal. We want to keep our focus on Jesus and what He wants us to do. Please pray we do this and bring Him glory in all that we say and do, no matter what.
Thanks!
Tuesday, August 15, 2017
Friday, August 11, 2017
Andrew's MRI
Andrew's MRI went well last night at Duke. He was back there about 45 minutes total, and we got back to the hotel a little after 11:00. Peter and Sam had waited up for us, and we all got a good night's sleep before coming home this morning.
And...we just read the MRI results online and got a note from the doctor already through their portal! I must admit that I have had trouble signing up for some of these, but the Duke one was very easy. We have already sent a message to the doctor about Andrew's meds before our EMU (epilepsy monitoring unit) stay and got a reply right back.
The MRI shows the same scar tissue (for lack of a better medical term). It's in the same spot and appears to be unchanged from 2004 ~ good news. Everything else looks normal. That's a huge praise. I sometimes worry that issues are chalked up to previous things, and that something new would easily just march right by me. That is where I have to pray and pray and pray that God will tell me when to check something out. I cannot tell you the times He has nudged me when I needed that nudge.
If this scar tissue is determined to be the cause of his seizures, they can look at surgery to take care of it, as long as it does not go too deep. I am so scared about the possibility of surgery on his brain but hopeful that the trouble spot could be taken away. It's been a huge trouble spot his whole life, and he would love to be rid of it.
We ate a good breakfast, and then Peter got a speeding ticket on the way home ~ Wilkes County. I am sure it is playing over in his head, my words, "Drive safely but never speed in Wilkes County; or you'll get a ticket!" Now he believes me. He was very respectful to the trooper. Oh well. I still appreciate that Peter took another day off to drive us.
I just finished my second antibiotic and was hoping the steroid shot I got Tuesday would kick in. I am so dizzy and have pretty bad sinus-like headaches. I sip on Ginger Ale all day for nausea. I have used every home remedy for sinuses that my grandfather did and one I learned from a veterinarian! My nose refuses to run, and I am convinced my sinuses are locked up. I keep praying this goes away soon. Six weeks is a long time, and I keep reminding God that my shift in the EMU is not going to be easy. I know He knows, but frustration is creeping in. I had a hard time walking to the car last night in the dark. During this, I really feel like God is reminding me how it feels to not be able to do what you need to do - literally. I had this once before and wondered how long I could go and keep doing what I needed to do. So I am trying to be patient and hopeful while getting the bare minimum done each day. And some days I have had to ask God to take over and show me what to do. And He has. I just cannot wait to feel like myself again and will never take it for granted.
That said, I am going to bed as soon as I get Sam squared away for the night. He had such a fun time swimming a little bit again! Peter found his shoes on the way yesterday for his internship (Thanks, Mimi and Grandad, for the early birthday gift!). Andrew and I are still looking for pj shirts that button up the front and think some were located in Bristol! We appreciate all of the help getting our stuff together. I still need some new author ideas! Robert Whitlow's new book is not out until September 12 ~ oh, so close! I wish he knew I was his biggest fan and would send me an early copy!
Everyone else seems fine. The older boys are working, and Peter starts his internship and final semester soon! Pete and I attended a celebration of life at the home of a dear couple who lived in Blowing Rock. It was a wonderful service with many opportunities for people to hear about what gave/gives this family hope. Remembering that sharing eternal things and not getting bogged down here puts my life in a better perspective. If you don't know Jesus, you cannot have this hope. And it's not a statement I put lightly. I am not His best messenger, but I hope sometimes He can work through even me.
I have gotten cards and texts and messages and face to face visits lately from people I know God put in my path. And I am so very thankful that when I am so worn down and worn out, that He puts them right in front of my nose where I will not miss them. And I want to be looking for His provision and the ways He takes care of me (and mine!). I want to be expecting those things, not wishing for them but not really believing.
Thanks for praying for us. Please pray as we get ready for this next step. Andrew seems very fine with it all, and I am dreading it (and trying not to show it). I am praying for peace for all of us before we walk in those hospital doors.
Happy Friday! I will leave these verses here that I needed extra today. I am so thankful I don't have to lean on my own understanding.
"Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths." Prov. 3:5&6
"Have you not known? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He does not faint or grow weary; his understanding is unsearchable." Isaiah 40:28
Tuesday, August 1, 2017
Andrew's Duke Appointment and Plans (UPDATED 8/3/17)
It's been a tough few weeks, and I sit here looking back over some of the "other tough times" and have to feel encouraged to know how terrible some of those times were ~ but He brought us through. And He will do so again.
I have not felt well for at least a few weeks. I am still "fighting" with BCBS, and it's not something I can let go; because it affects everything for the rest of the year. Andrew's personal customer service rep has not had to help us with anything big yet, and I am not sure it's going to work out - her help. Then my car was hit in the Harris Teeter parking lot. It crunched my bumper, so I can hardly get in the back of my car. It was a hit and run, but there was a witness who took the tag. Long story short, somehow the people who hit me got my information even though I did not have theirs. I was trying to work with them but had already worked a week and a half getting my car lined up to get fixed, a new bumper. Everything is being dragged out, so I have just had to ask my insurance to handle it. But my insurance doesn't have their info. It's frustrating but not the end of the world, I keep telling myself. It's our only car that can go to Charlotte or Duke. Pete's Toyota (or Honda, as he calls it) would not make the trip to Wilkesboro! So all of that, on top of the regular life I lead, has worn me out a little.
And there is more. There are changes, and I am not good at change. But I am trying to be obedient and do what God wants me to do. I have been concerned for Pete too, and I have been praying a lot. This part is not meant to be cryptic, though it is. It's just another huge thing to me, and it's all right at the same time as all of this other going on. But I know I must keep praying and believing that God will take care of all of that too ~ and all my concerns for others.
So we took off Sunday afternoon for Duke. Peter went with us, in case I did not feel well enough to drive. We took our first break at the outlets in Mebane and had a fun but hot few minutes walking around. We got dinner on our way to the hotel and were happy to find a nice, clean pool with no one around! I could see the boys out of my balcony, and they were able to to out and play twice at night. The next morning. Peter dropped us off at Duke and took Sam to breakfast and back to the hotel to swim. Sam loved spending time with two of his brothers and had not been swimming all summer!
Andrew and I really liked the doctor at Duke. He had gotten some of Andrew's information before the appointment and had a good idea of Andrew's situation. He asked a ton of questions. He was great at talking to Andrew and directing most of his questions and answers to him. But he asked me about the times when Andrew was young, and we both felt he included us both and really wanted to know about Andrew. It takes a long time to go through the questions on Andrew's medical history, and I usually take a cheat sheet and only elaborate if they want me to. I left a couple of articles with the doctor, so he would know a little more about Andrew; and he seemed genuinely interested in those.
In a nutshell, Andrew's options for seizures are limited - more drugs, a VNS, or surgery. After a good explanation from the doctor about the surgery and testing needed to even see if that was an option, Andrew decided to go with that plan. So he will go back to Duke this month for an MRI. It's at 9:45 pm, so we will see if we can get the same hotel! And I am waiting on Duke to call with a time for Andrew to go to their epilepsy monitoring unit (EMU) and spend 4-7 days, so they can evaluate his seizures. They will take him off his medications to make him have seizures and will monitor him. We will be with him at all times. I still don't have my situation even remotely worked out with Sam, but I told Pete he would just have to take that time off. One of us will be with him, and one can keep up with Sam while taking a break. It makes me sick to think of it, but I know it's to get him to a better place hopefully.
After all of the testing, the team at Duke will meet and determine if Andrew is even a candidate for surgery. He may not be. Or if there would likely be damage of some kind, they said they will not do surgery. From what we know now, Andrew meets the criteria to be tested. And he is ready to do that.
The doctor was very nice and told Andrew that Andrew can stop the process at any time and try more medications. But he seemed optimistic about helping Andrew get seizure free. And Andrew wants (right now) to see if that is a possibility.
People comment sometimes that I am strong - and I know what those people mean - not that I am really strong but that I let God help me through things. I don't want anyone to think I am strong - especially by myself. But I can tell you that this will be one of the biggest challenges I have ever faced - and I am not the one considering surgery. I will be counting on God for ALL of the strength we need.
So I am asking for prayers for Andrew. I am asking for prayers for wisdom and guidance and the right doctors and nurses and radiologists and anyone else involved. I am also asking for prayers that God can use us through this experience. It's just scary to me. So scary it makes me feel sick. But I want Andrew to have more freedom and less worry and less interruption. He gives up a lot that not many realize. And the decision is totally up to him.
Thanks to ALL of you who supported him in his yard sale! He got rid of tons of our stuff, and we took quite a bit to donate. He was so excited to do so well!
Thanks again for praying for our family. We know God is in control. He knows all. And I just have to keep my focus on Him. He loves Andrew even more than Pete and I could.
Holding tightly onto this short but a favorite verse and promise:
"But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:19
UPDATE ON 8/3/17
Andrew will check in at Duke sometime on August 30 (Sam's 13th birthday!). We will leave our house early in the morning and be on our way or down there by the time they are ready for him. He should be there 3-5 days (doctor said 4-7). It will be "not normal" to hope for the right kind and enough seizures for them to get the information they need, while we try to keep him safe. Our plans are (right now) to take Sam with us. The rooms are very small, and there is only one reclining chair. So Pete will spend the nights, and I will take the days. We can come and go and get food for him, but one of us will need to be with him at all times. I will be updating my kindle with some new books (PLEASE send me book suggestions - Christian fiction is my favorite - Robert Whitlow, Dee Henderson, Angela Hunt). He can have DVD's and can study or do whatever he feels like doing. If anyone knows where to find 100% cotton pj tops for men that button up the front, I would appreciate that information. I can look outside of Boone when we go back on the 10th for his MRI. But I don't have that "shopper energy" right now! I found some at Walmart, but they were not all cotton.
Thanks to all of you who have prayed. Thanks for the encouragement and offers of help. Our hotel is already covered by a generous gift someone sent a couple of days ago.
And please pray for Sam as he has to go with us. Please pray for Peter and Will as they stay at home and work. Sometimes the siblings need some attention and definitely need prayers. It's not always easy to be in our family. We aren't perfect and never want to appear so. But we are blessed beyond measure. Our blessings come from knowing God is real and that He is always with us. And while we don't look forward to this, at all, we are thankful it's soon and will be over with.
And while I always make this about Andrew or Sam usually, I would ask those who pray to pray for one of my little friends going through some of the same testing. He is in the initial stages, and I pray for him to have something easily treatable and not dangerous and disruptive. And I pray for peace and comfort for his parents as they go through this tough stuff. Thanks!
P.S. You may not want to park near me! I must be a magnet for accidents! Evidently a truck backed into the car parked beside me with a trailer hitch and left the scene. Fortunately, they found him next door, as he did not stay to take responsibility! Just crazy!
Friday, July 7, 2017
July Update ~ And THE BEAR!
I know I have been so bad to update this blog! I will try to do better!
Andrew ran The Bear last night. He finished 5th with a good time. One of his former Watauga teammates passed him on the very last incline. But he still finished strong and FIFTH out of around 800 runners. His best time from 2015 (when he won) would have been a good second this year and is still the 7th fastest time of all the recorded times since 1998 (except for last year's times which were for a short run due to wind!).
He almost did not run. He had a goal to run The Bear and the Grandfather Mountain Marathon this week. He was so excited to train. But his training has been almost non-existent. He has only been able to run about 30 miles in the last month.
He has been so tired. He has had some issues with seizures, since April. It's been tough. In my previous posts, I have mentioned how we've had to call for help. EMS is always great - once you can get them to come. We have gone through many tough times without calling or with calling and canceling. So it's hard, when you know you really do need the professionals to come. Right now, Andrew is on three of the best seizure meds he can take while awaiting an appointment at Duke at the end of this month. So he has been good for the last few weeks, but he is taking a ton of medication.
Andrew has also been volunteering for 30+ hours a week at the Hospitality House. He just finished his last week of that but will continue to help throughout the summer. He is helping me with Sam's camp for the next two weeks. So (side note), I am going to put info on FB about a yard sale he will be having to raise some money and get rid of some of our stuff. I will give him the stuff, and he will hopefully sell it and make some money for fall (since he has worked all summer so far for free!).
So from the setbacks from the seizures, some infections and other medical issues, and work, Andrew had to give up his goal/dream of running the two events. He knows the organizers and most of the volunteers and has always wanted to run both after he finished his eligibility.
Then, he decided he wanted to try The Bear. Pete and I told him he could do whatever he wanted. He did not have to be at his best. We know other runners who won and then ran after running other races the week of or not being able to train much. Pete and I prayed with him yesterday. We also prayed for him (more than once!), and Pete specifically asked that he could be in the top 20 or so - just to encourage him. We were hoping he would at least get a mug.
So we made the trek up the mountain. I have been sick and dizzy all week. I had to rest most of yesterday to even be able to go up there. As I stood up in my usual spot, I prayed and prayed for him - for his safety and for his race. Then, after what seemed like a very long time, Pete came over and said, "Mama, look! I think Andrew is in 4th!" And he was. I could tell by his arms and his dark blue shirt ( a Mast Store high school race shirt that has remained a favorite). His former teammate passed him, but Andrew still finished strong in the race that almost wasn't. And once again, I had to stop and thank God for letting him have that.
Sometimes it's hard to be Andrew's mom. For all of the good races or good days, there are some tough ones. And I would not trade if for anything. But I looked at some of those runners, and they looked just fine. And I know some of them have struggles I don't see. But I look at Andrew and see a miracle. And not many people know that, because he doesn't look sick. So I am disappointed when he is disappointed, but I sure am happy and thankful when he is happy! (http://www.wataugademocrat.com/sports/local_sports/first-timers-grab-victories-at-the-bear/article_4bd369f8-0cc0-52da-a634-25e44b84e3dc.html)
Andrew had three specialist appointments in a week. Talk about overload for information. They were all fine, and everything should be on track. I was a little disappointed that no one could see a pattern that may explain the increase in seizures. So at Duke, I plan on asking for a new MRI at least. And I am praying for a doctor who takes an interest in him and really wants to help him.
My niece Laura had surgery (brain surgery) for her Trigeminal Nerve on Wednesday. She was supposed to spend one night in ICU and be at the Mayo Clinic (in Florida) for another 3-4 days. She did so well that they released her on Thursday! She has to stay around until Saturday, but we have been so relieved and thankful for a successful surgery. She is sore and in pain from the surgery, but we pray she is healed from this pain she has suffered from. She has had to take all kinds of medications, some of the same ones Andrew has taken. So our prayer is that she no longer needs any of that. Her husband goes to training in a few days for a few weeks. And then he deploys for a year in January. So it's been tough and emotional for their young little family. And we keep them in our prayers and will keep lifting them up and supporting them. Laura was able to get our texts and calls and was so happy for Andrew.
I know I have mentioned Sam's learning issues. We have an appointment for him in Asheville in September. I just keep praying for him. I am so thankful for the program at Appalachian that is helping him learn to read. And I am thankful for people God has put in my path to encourage me in such a discouraging situation. But the last few days as I have been so sick, he has been the best nurse I could have. He anticipates what you need before you ask. And he can get the TV on or the phone fixed before I even try. He is also happy to help with any house things that need to be done. He is beyond his years in being intuitive and thoughtful and helpful, and I thank God for allowing me to be his mother. His last endocrinology check up was good. Even though diabetes has been hard and you feel like you have a C for A+ effort, I am thankful for any good check ups. Our JDRF race is probably going to be October 7, and we will start putting things on FB soon!
One of the moms I know because of diabetes posted a video of Mercy Me and their new song "Even If" that I love. I did not realize the lead singer's son is a Type 1. And what he said in the video hit home. Our world seems to revolve around this disease so much. And the doctor visits can be frustrating. You wish you could just not have to do that anymore. And I feel like that a lot with Sam AND Andrew (who just had three big specialist appointments). I think it's partly overload and overwhelming. So I am sharing the video and song link below. Because no matter what, God is still my hope. I still believe that He sent Jesus to save us. And this is not my home. One day we will all be happy and healed, those of us who believe and accept that Gift of salvation. The hardest times make me closer to God. And for that, I have to be thankful. I don't want to sail through this life enjoying every minute because it's easy and miss the opportunity to point others to eternal life with Christ. And I am afraid I would. So it's not that this world should be all depressing and dull, but my focus should be on that the best is yet to come. And I want people to know and choose to be in the best.
Thanks for reading this!
"Even If" Mercy Me
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WHosmHnOrb8 - cut and paste this to hear his testimony!
Andrew ran The Bear last night. He finished 5th with a good time. One of his former Watauga teammates passed him on the very last incline. But he still finished strong and FIFTH out of around 800 runners. His best time from 2015 (when he won) would have been a good second this year and is still the 7th fastest time of all the recorded times since 1998 (except for last year's times which were for a short run due to wind!).
He almost did not run. He had a goal to run The Bear and the Grandfather Mountain Marathon this week. He was so excited to train. But his training has been almost non-existent. He has only been able to run about 30 miles in the last month.
He has been so tired. He has had some issues with seizures, since April. It's been tough. In my previous posts, I have mentioned how we've had to call for help. EMS is always great - once you can get them to come. We have gone through many tough times without calling or with calling and canceling. So it's hard, when you know you really do need the professionals to come. Right now, Andrew is on three of the best seizure meds he can take while awaiting an appointment at Duke at the end of this month. So he has been good for the last few weeks, but he is taking a ton of medication.
Andrew has also been volunteering for 30+ hours a week at the Hospitality House. He just finished his last week of that but will continue to help throughout the summer. He is helping me with Sam's camp for the next two weeks. So (side note), I am going to put info on FB about a yard sale he will be having to raise some money and get rid of some of our stuff. I will give him the stuff, and he will hopefully sell it and make some money for fall (since he has worked all summer so far for free!).
So from the setbacks from the seizures, some infections and other medical issues, and work, Andrew had to give up his goal/dream of running the two events. He knows the organizers and most of the volunteers and has always wanted to run both after he finished his eligibility.
Then, he decided he wanted to try The Bear. Pete and I told him he could do whatever he wanted. He did not have to be at his best. We know other runners who won and then ran after running other races the week of or not being able to train much. Pete and I prayed with him yesterday. We also prayed for him (more than once!), and Pete specifically asked that he could be in the top 20 or so - just to encourage him. We were hoping he would at least get a mug.
So we made the trek up the mountain. I have been sick and dizzy all week. I had to rest most of yesterday to even be able to go up there. As I stood up in my usual spot, I prayed and prayed for him - for his safety and for his race. Then, after what seemed like a very long time, Pete came over and said, "Mama, look! I think Andrew is in 4th!" And he was. I could tell by his arms and his dark blue shirt ( a Mast Store high school race shirt that has remained a favorite). His former teammate passed him, but Andrew still finished strong in the race that almost wasn't. And once again, I had to stop and thank God for letting him have that.
Sometimes it's hard to be Andrew's mom. For all of the good races or good days, there are some tough ones. And I would not trade if for anything. But I looked at some of those runners, and they looked just fine. And I know some of them have struggles I don't see. But I look at Andrew and see a miracle. And not many people know that, because he doesn't look sick. So I am disappointed when he is disappointed, but I sure am happy and thankful when he is happy! (http://www.wataugademocrat.com/sports/local_sports/first-timers-grab-victories-at-the-bear/article_4bd369f8-0cc0-52da-a634-25e44b84e3dc.html)
Andrew had three specialist appointments in a week. Talk about overload for information. They were all fine, and everything should be on track. I was a little disappointed that no one could see a pattern that may explain the increase in seizures. So at Duke, I plan on asking for a new MRI at least. And I am praying for a doctor who takes an interest in him and really wants to help him.
My niece Laura had surgery (brain surgery) for her Trigeminal Nerve on Wednesday. She was supposed to spend one night in ICU and be at the Mayo Clinic (in Florida) for another 3-4 days. She did so well that they released her on Thursday! She has to stay around until Saturday, but we have been so relieved and thankful for a successful surgery. She is sore and in pain from the surgery, but we pray she is healed from this pain she has suffered from. She has had to take all kinds of medications, some of the same ones Andrew has taken. So our prayer is that she no longer needs any of that. Her husband goes to training in a few days for a few weeks. And then he deploys for a year in January. So it's been tough and emotional for their young little family. And we keep them in our prayers and will keep lifting them up and supporting them. Laura was able to get our texts and calls and was so happy for Andrew.
I know I have mentioned Sam's learning issues. We have an appointment for him in Asheville in September. I just keep praying for him. I am so thankful for the program at Appalachian that is helping him learn to read. And I am thankful for people God has put in my path to encourage me in such a discouraging situation. But the last few days as I have been so sick, he has been the best nurse I could have. He anticipates what you need before you ask. And he can get the TV on or the phone fixed before I even try. He is also happy to help with any house things that need to be done. He is beyond his years in being intuitive and thoughtful and helpful, and I thank God for allowing me to be his mother. His last endocrinology check up was good. Even though diabetes has been hard and you feel like you have a C for A+ effort, I am thankful for any good check ups. Our JDRF race is probably going to be October 7, and we will start putting things on FB soon!
One of the moms I know because of diabetes posted a video of Mercy Me and their new song "Even If" that I love. I did not realize the lead singer's son is a Type 1. And what he said in the video hit home. Our world seems to revolve around this disease so much. And the doctor visits can be frustrating. You wish you could just not have to do that anymore. And I feel like that a lot with Sam AND Andrew (who just had three big specialist appointments). I think it's partly overload and overwhelming. So I am sharing the video and song link below. Because no matter what, God is still my hope. I still believe that He sent Jesus to save us. And this is not my home. One day we will all be happy and healed, those of us who believe and accept that Gift of salvation. The hardest times make me closer to God. And for that, I have to be thankful. I don't want to sail through this life enjoying every minute because it's easy and miss the opportunity to point others to eternal life with Christ. And I am afraid I would. So it's not that this world should be all depressing and dull, but my focus should be on that the best is yet to come. And I want people to know and choose to be in the best.
Thanks for reading this!
"Even If" Mercy Me
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WHosmHnOrb8 - cut and paste this to hear his testimony!
They say sometimes you win some
Sometimes you lose some
And right now, right now I'm losing bad
I've stood on this stage night after night
Reminding the broken it'll be alright
But right now, oh right now I just can't
It's easy to sing
When there's nothing to bring me down
But what will I say
When I'm held to the flame
Like I am right now
I know You're able and I know You can
Save through the fire with Your mighty hand
But even if You don't
My hope is You alone
They say it only takes a little faith
To move a mountain
Good thing
A little faith is all I have right now
But God, when You choose
To leave mountains unmovable
Give me the strength to be able to sing
It is well with my soul
I know You're able and I know You can
Save through the fire with Your mighty hand
But even if You don't
My hope is You alone
I know the sorrow, and I know the hurt
Would all go away if You'd just say the word
But even if You don't
My hope is You alone
You've been faithful, You've been good
All of my days
Jesus, I will cling to You
Come what may
‘Cause I know You're able
I know You can
I know You're able and I know You can
Save through the fire with Your mighty hand
But even if You don't
My hope is You alone
I know the sorrow, and I know the hurt
Would all go away if You'd just say the word
But even if You don't
My hope is You alone
It is well with my soul
It is well, it is well with my soul
Sometimes you lose some
And right now, right now I'm losing bad
I've stood on this stage night after night
Reminding the broken it'll be alright
But right now, oh right now I just can't
It's easy to sing
When there's nothing to bring me down
But what will I say
When I'm held to the flame
Like I am right now
I know You're able and I know You can
Save through the fire with Your mighty hand
But even if You don't
My hope is You alone
They say it only takes a little faith
To move a mountain
Good thing
A little faith is all I have right now
But God, when You choose
To leave mountains unmovable
Give me the strength to be able to sing
It is well with my soul
I know You're able and I know You can
Save through the fire with Your mighty hand
But even if You don't
My hope is You alone
I know the sorrow, and I know the hurt
Would all go away if You'd just say the word
But even if You don't
My hope is You alone
You've been faithful, You've been good
All of my days
Jesus, I will cling to You
Come what may
‘Cause I know You're able
I know You can
I know You're able and I know You can
Save through the fire with Your mighty hand
But even if You don't
My hope is You alone
I know the sorrow, and I know the hurt
Would all go away if You'd just say the word
But even if You don't
My hope is You alone
It is well with my soul
It is well, it is well with my soul
Monday, May 29, 2017
May Update
Here we go again...it seems.
We have been rolling along, but the last few weeks have kept us on our toes. Sam has had moderately high blood sugars during the day but enough lows to keep me from changing his 24 hour insulin he takes before bed. Last Saturday, he complained his stomach hurt all day. He would get up to play with the dogs or his Legos and end up back on the couch. Finally, at about 8:30 or 9:00, I thought what would Carla say if I called her with his symptoms? I immediately thought she'd ask if I had checked him for ketones. Nope! His blood sugar had not been that high. So we checked and found they were really bad. So there was another bit of time to get them gone before we could go to bed. It usually entails drinking a lot of Gatorade and water and checking every hour to make sure they are getting better and blood sugars are not worse! We got him settled down within a couple of hours, thankfully. But we still battled them off and on for a week. He had two places on his leg that we treated with antibiotics, in case they were something worse than staph; so that could have affected him - fighting infection. He seemed better on Saturday after having some weird numbers on Thursday and Friday. He seems better still. But I did go ahead and change his Lantus last night (24 hour insulin) and sent him to bed at a good number. Not long after, I was reading in bed; and he slipped in to show me a 42 on his meter! So I rolled back out of bed and fed him every snack he wanted until 45 minutes went by, and we had a reading in the 140's. I slept through my 1:15 am alarm and checked him around 4:00 am. He was a tiny bit high, but at night that is more of a relief after lows!
We went to an outside wedding near Charlotte on Saturday. I kept telling Andrew and Sam to drink water and stay in the shade. The actual wedding was out in the sun with no shade, but it was not long. So even though it was very hot, they were fanning themselves and staying under an umbrella or the open shelter. After the maid of honor gave her pages long toast, Andrew came from the table beside me and asked if I could go and see if I had emergency meds in the car "just in case." I looked at him and asked if he was okay. Then Pete looked at him and jumped up. Fortunately, we were at the end of the shelter and could get him away from the reception and in front of the catering van parked in the grass. I was torn between running to the car (parked quite a bit away) and staying but knew I needed to check on the meds, so I started running. And praying. I am not in good shape at all and am working on it, but I will need to work faster and harder now. I was able to run down the hill and then walk fast. As I got close to my car, Pop came with a golf cart and helped me search the car. I felt sure the medicine was under the seat, but I could not find it. So I got into the car and drove it up to the shelter to help. By the time I got back, the seizure was over and sirens were coming our way. Sam helped direct the first responders to Andrew (for the second time in a month). They were so kind and helpful and were great checking on Andrew. There were two fire response trucks and an ambulance. Since we were at a winery, I am not sure what they thought they might find. But we were thankful for them and a recent ASU nursing grad. She and her boyfriend sat at the end of the aisle beside Pete, and they had talked before the wedding. She kept an eye on Andrew and even noticed the cut on his head when they sat him up. Not until we got him situated and then put him in the air conditioned car to hurry home did I know that Pete was really scared with this one too. He watched Andrew go through it and come out of it without any medical help. And it was tough. Sometimes emergency meds don't kick in for a minute or so. But it seems like 10 minutes when you are watching him not breathing. It is so so scary.
We loaded up. Andrew was still so polite. He told his cousin he was sorry he disrupted his big wedding day. His cousin went and got him some water and told him not to worry - that he understood. And then we just went on.
The emergency people told us what to do if he had another on the way home. To keep driving and call 911 and let them tell us to stop or to meet them somewhere. That was good to know. We did not have any problems on the way home, as we hurried home. He slept in my spot again, and he did not have any problems during the night.
Yesterday, Andrew could not make Sunday School; but he was at church doing the sound. We got there a few minutes before church started, and some who knew about his Saturday were happily surprised to see him. I felt good knowing he wanted to be in church.
Since today is Memorial Day, I guess I will have to start all of my inquiries tomorrow. Something is off, is not right. Whether it's still getting his thyroid medicine straightened out (but it's been almost four weeks now, since we corrected that) or getting a new MRI (he has not had one in a while) or something else. He has four specialist appointments in June, so we need to gather all of the information we can before those appointments. We just need lots of prayers for guidance.
Pete started to fuss at Andrew a little bit about not telling us he thought he was going to have a seizure. He wants him to not ask for medicine but to tell us he feels like a seizure is coming. But I told Pete that he has felt bad before and not had one. Andrew and I were on the interstate coming home from UT Knoxville around midnight after he ran a 10,000 and he felt weird. We were on a dark stretch with no exits for a while. Andrew put his medicine on the dash and a blanket on his lap. And we had a plan that if he had a seizure, I would pull over and call 911 on speaker and pull him out and put him on the blanket. I drove as fast as I safely could, and I prayed. Very hard. And then the feeling passed. And he did not have one. So we are thankful when he feels one coming on but are so thankful when they don't get him.
Once again, we are thankful that he is okay. He could have these when we are not there to help. We give him medicine when we can and turn him on his side and talk to him (and sometimes yell to try to get him back) and pray and pray and pray for it to let up and go away. It's hard, but I would never trade that for him being by himself. God is good.
Please pray for Andrew. And for us to seek out what he needs. Thanks so much.
"Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost." Romans 15:13
This verse has been taped to my computer for years. I need to read it often.
UPDATE: I was in touch with Duke today. Andrew has a July 31 appointment with a neurologist who specializes in difficult to control seizures and autoimmune issues. He is also on a waiting list in case an earlier appointment becomes available. Thanks again for praying.
We have been rolling along, but the last few weeks have kept us on our toes. Sam has had moderately high blood sugars during the day but enough lows to keep me from changing his 24 hour insulin he takes before bed. Last Saturday, he complained his stomach hurt all day. He would get up to play with the dogs or his Legos and end up back on the couch. Finally, at about 8:30 or 9:00, I thought what would Carla say if I called her with his symptoms? I immediately thought she'd ask if I had checked him for ketones. Nope! His blood sugar had not been that high. So we checked and found they were really bad. So there was another bit of time to get them gone before we could go to bed. It usually entails drinking a lot of Gatorade and water and checking every hour to make sure they are getting better and blood sugars are not worse! We got him settled down within a couple of hours, thankfully. But we still battled them off and on for a week. He had two places on his leg that we treated with antibiotics, in case they were something worse than staph; so that could have affected him - fighting infection. He seemed better on Saturday after having some weird numbers on Thursday and Friday. He seems better still. But I did go ahead and change his Lantus last night (24 hour insulin) and sent him to bed at a good number. Not long after, I was reading in bed; and he slipped in to show me a 42 on his meter! So I rolled back out of bed and fed him every snack he wanted until 45 minutes went by, and we had a reading in the 140's. I slept through my 1:15 am alarm and checked him around 4:00 am. He was a tiny bit high, but at night that is more of a relief after lows!
We went to an outside wedding near Charlotte on Saturday. I kept telling Andrew and Sam to drink water and stay in the shade. The actual wedding was out in the sun with no shade, but it was not long. So even though it was very hot, they were fanning themselves and staying under an umbrella or the open shelter. After the maid of honor gave her pages long toast, Andrew came from the table beside me and asked if I could go and see if I had emergency meds in the car "just in case." I looked at him and asked if he was okay. Then Pete looked at him and jumped up. Fortunately, we were at the end of the shelter and could get him away from the reception and in front of the catering van parked in the grass. I was torn between running to the car (parked quite a bit away) and staying but knew I needed to check on the meds, so I started running. And praying. I am not in good shape at all and am working on it, but I will need to work faster and harder now. I was able to run down the hill and then walk fast. As I got close to my car, Pop came with a golf cart and helped me search the car. I felt sure the medicine was under the seat, but I could not find it. So I got into the car and drove it up to the shelter to help. By the time I got back, the seizure was over and sirens were coming our way. Sam helped direct the first responders to Andrew (for the second time in a month). They were so kind and helpful and were great checking on Andrew. There were two fire response trucks and an ambulance. Since we were at a winery, I am not sure what they thought they might find. But we were thankful for them and a recent ASU nursing grad. She and her boyfriend sat at the end of the aisle beside Pete, and they had talked before the wedding. She kept an eye on Andrew and even noticed the cut on his head when they sat him up. Not until we got him situated and then put him in the air conditioned car to hurry home did I know that Pete was really scared with this one too. He watched Andrew go through it and come out of it without any medical help. And it was tough. Sometimes emergency meds don't kick in for a minute or so. But it seems like 10 minutes when you are watching him not breathing. It is so so scary.
We loaded up. Andrew was still so polite. He told his cousin he was sorry he disrupted his big wedding day. His cousin went and got him some water and told him not to worry - that he understood. And then we just went on.
The emergency people told us what to do if he had another on the way home. To keep driving and call 911 and let them tell us to stop or to meet them somewhere. That was good to know. We did not have any problems on the way home, as we hurried home. He slept in my spot again, and he did not have any problems during the night.
Yesterday, Andrew could not make Sunday School; but he was at church doing the sound. We got there a few minutes before church started, and some who knew about his Saturday were happily surprised to see him. I felt good knowing he wanted to be in church.
Since today is Memorial Day, I guess I will have to start all of my inquiries tomorrow. Something is off, is not right. Whether it's still getting his thyroid medicine straightened out (but it's been almost four weeks now, since we corrected that) or getting a new MRI (he has not had one in a while) or something else. He has four specialist appointments in June, so we need to gather all of the information we can before those appointments. We just need lots of prayers for guidance.
Pete started to fuss at Andrew a little bit about not telling us he thought he was going to have a seizure. He wants him to not ask for medicine but to tell us he feels like a seizure is coming. But I told Pete that he has felt bad before and not had one. Andrew and I were on the interstate coming home from UT Knoxville around midnight after he ran a 10,000 and he felt weird. We were on a dark stretch with no exits for a while. Andrew put his medicine on the dash and a blanket on his lap. And we had a plan that if he had a seizure, I would pull over and call 911 on speaker and pull him out and put him on the blanket. I drove as fast as I safely could, and I prayed. Very hard. And then the feeling passed. And he did not have one. So we are thankful when he feels one coming on but are so thankful when they don't get him.
Once again, we are thankful that he is okay. He could have these when we are not there to help. We give him medicine when we can and turn him on his side and talk to him (and sometimes yell to try to get him back) and pray and pray and pray for it to let up and go away. It's hard, but I would never trade that for him being by himself. God is good.
Please pray for Andrew. And for us to seek out what he needs. Thanks so much.
"Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost." Romans 15:13
This verse has been taped to my computer for years. I need to read it often.
UPDATE: I was in touch with Duke today. Andrew has a July 31 appointment with a neurologist who specializes in difficult to control seizures and autoimmune issues. He is also on a waiting list in case an earlier appointment becomes available. Thanks again for praying.
Friday, May 5, 2017
An April Update
I guess we all have those things that come, and we see them and don't let them bother us. But sometimes things come in a flurry and knock us down; and then the least little thing becomes too big to handle for the day or week or month. Andrew tells me (no offense!) that I am too sensitive. He says it in a sweet but knowing way. And one of the sins Pete mentioned in his sermon Sunday was worry. And he knows I have been so guilty of that lately. But he also says he knows how hard I have been fighting it and to keep on.
So I decided that since most of April I did not feel well, I would try to get a change of scenery soon. Because I need it and because I need the boost. I felt really run down and ran through most days and tried to rest when I could, so I would be able to keep up. And I remembered a friend who did the very same thing for years. And it was hard to know your whole life revolved around trying to keep up the best you could, while feeling as if you were losing ground more and more. And now that I feel better, I can be out of that loop.
When last Friday rolled around, we had already had a couple of tough weeks with Andrew - he was tired and fighting an infection. We'd been trying to get him well and back on track, and he was doing better. But we knew his thyroid was off (had just found out), and Carla had sent the labs to his newer doctor in Winston. Andrew was planning on manning the water station at our half-way point at our road race the next day on the Greenway. Paula and I were doing early packet pick up at the Greenway and had gone to her mom's to get Andrew's water station supplies. When we got into her car to go back to the Greenway, Sam called and calmly told me I needed to come home. He said, "Andrew is having a seizure, so you need to come home." I asked where his dad was, and he said that he was on the phone with 911. I knew it was bad if Pete called 911.
Paula rushed me to my car, and I jumped in and took off with my flashers on. I was being very careful, even though I was frantic because I could not get Sam back on the phone. We had already prayed for Andrew, and I kept praying and put on some praise music. As I came down the road from the Greenway, a car pulled out from the swim complex; and an SUV pulled up to pull out. I beeped my horn slightly, so they would notice I had my flashers on and was in a hurry. They pulled out right in front of me anyway and hit their brakes a few times in a short amount of time.
Now, I know those people were probably coming from swimming and had children in the car. And they could pull out in front of me if they wanted to. And they could hit their brakes and slow me down more. I just wish they had had some compassion. I was not doing anything wrong or running up on them. It's that power trip that a lot of people have driving. And I think it's just the by product of our society now - that if we can do it and want to, we can. No matter what. Who cares about anyone else. God helped me see a straight shot through a parking lot before we pulled out onto the next road, and I took it and was able to save a little bit of time.
My friend is a fireman, and he told me once that if I drove on the road with my flashers that people were MORE likely to pull in front of me. And he has been right. Another time, I tried to get to the old high school where Andrew had pretty much collapsed while running in the infield, and a car saw me and pulled out in front of me from the gas station. Because he could. And it has happened a couple of other times, and I have not driven with my flashers on many times! I have watched cars not pull over for fire or ambulance. And it is appalling to me! I cannot do anything about it but make a way when it's my turn. And I just have to work around them when trying to get to my person who may need me. Just something to think about if you see someone in a hurry. Maybe they are just rude, or maybe they are on their way to an emergency?
I drove down my road and saw the ambulance and fire truck in front of my house. I pulled in at the lower part and ran up through the yard to the front door. Andrew was lying in the floor with oxygen and four people working on him. He was able to smile at me and tell me he was doing better. So I could breathe again. I just hate seizures so much.
One young fireman was holding Andrew's hand. I noticed he kept holding Andrew's hand, because Andrew had a grip on him and did not realize it. I was there when the fireman got ready to stand up and gently undid Andrew's fingers from his own. So Andrew still did not notice. It just showed the kindness and compassion of this emergency worker.
We decided that Andrew felt okay and did not send him to the hospital. He was exhausted, and we called our doctors to check on one thing. My mind always tries to figure out what is different and may have caused him to be susceptible to a seizure.
Pete had called 911, because Andrew stopped breathing. Then Andrew went into a second seizure and was still too locked up to have any emergency meds that we have. I was not there to help, so he had to ask them to come on. It is too tough to call 911 and try to keep him turned on his side and try to get him breathing or give him his meds when you are by yourself.
Sam ran and got Andrew's emergency meds without Pete even asking. He corralled the dogs in the back yard and called me. He even flagged down the ambulance. He was a much better helper than his mother who literally freaks out. So we are very thankful for his calm, helpful little spirit.
Some of our faithful neighbors who check on us came by to check on Andrew. The same ones who offer help and mow yards for others even when they are sick themselves. We are thankful for them. They drop what they are doing and offer to help.
Andrew slept in my bed in my spot and started another seizure at around 10:00. Pete and I both were able to get the medicine in him before he got too bad. It's just hard to wait for it to kick in and to see if it will kick in and help. It was rough. He was so exhausted. But after that, we all slept, me on the couch but where I could hear. And the next morning, he was feeling better but foggy.
This week, we found out that Andrew has gotten the generic of one important drug since December, Carla suggested I check on that, and she was right..again. That has been changed back to name brand. We also added another seizure med to the two he already takes. We have tried to get him to rest and get to a place where he can take his exams. He has already gone to Bible study and run with his friends on the team. Like I have said before, he bounces back, so we do too.
Pete is helping me look for my change of scenery, and sometimes it's stuff right under our noses. I am thankful he takes it seriously and wants to help. And I am thankful that walking more and reading my Bible more and praying even more are things that bring about a noticeable difference. I know I cannot take care of these special charges if I cannot take care of myself! And I am glad I don't long for long and faraway trips. I just don't, so that helps too! I would rather be at home near my favorite people.
Please continue to pray for Andrew. The other boys can always use prayer, but they are doing well. Peter broke his ankle and just got his cast off. He is happy to be driving again and not be tied to our schedules!
Thanks for all of the prayers! We appreciate each and every one, because we know God hears each and every one!
"Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not." Jeremiah 33:3
Saturday, March 11, 2017
A March Update ~ March 11, 2017
We are expecting SNOW! They keep lowering the amounts, but we are a little bit excited. We kind of cannot expect spring until we see some, so we hope we get some! We have our sleds and hot chocolate ready just in case!
Pete just got back from a long Israel trip on Wednesday. Long is 12 days! We were so ready to see him. Once I dropped him off at the airport on a Friday afternoon, we set out to clean and get rid of a ton of stuff. I had some help, but the boys were pretty busy; so I got a lot done. They did help some and haul stuff away. I have a lot more to do, but I am happy with what I got done. My next big job is Sam's room - the ceiling and trim. And then we hope to tackle our front stairs and hallway.
When Pete is gone, I have his responsibilities. I did not preach, but I did his cleaning jobs. And I miss him being here to help me and talk me through the day. We got along really well until the very last couple of days. Andrew got really sick, and I found myself very pulled and juggling a lot of different things. And before anyone fusses at me for not asking for help, I did what I needed to do when I could do it. That meant putting Sam in charge at home a couple of times for a couple of hours. He really stepped up. And I have had so many offers of help and lunch brought to me and people checking on me that I had to stop and tell God thank you for giving me the very best people to help me. He really does. And I am so very thankful.
Andrew seems better. He told me Tuesday morning that he did not remember ever feeling that terrible. He was sick later Monday night, and I got up some to check on him. But Tuesday morning was very rough on him. He ended up getting 2 1/2 bags of IV fluids. His hemoglobin was up, so we will check that again in a week or so. He was so dehydrated, and I was so worried about him. But he is much better now. My dad came over and took him to class (because he has to go to class!), while Sam and I went to the airport for Pete. Dad got him lunch, so he was able to eat for the first time in really over a day and a half.
Sam had been sick the week before with a fever off and on, which he never has! He took flu meds just in case, since he is so high risk. With no snow days, the flu and strep have been awful here. Another reason to wish for some snow! ASU is on spring break, so hopefully that will help them with their germs!
We had two really great preachers come while Pete was gone. They talked about sharing Jesus. One talked more about international missions and trips, and the other talked about local people who have not heard the Good News. Both sermons were different, but they both brought the reminder that we are to share with others. I just saw an ad with Ron Reagan (Ronald Reagan's son) who said he is an atheist and not afraid to burn in hell. It literally made me sick. He took on an air of someone trying to tell us what we need to do but began and ended the ad with his own personal beliefs. It should have made me mad, but it made me feel so sick. I did not think, "Well, he will find out one day." I have added him to my own prayer list. He cannot be happy living a life without hope. And he is not the only one. I know some people look at me and other Christians and church goers and think they would rather take their chances than be like me or associate with me. But it's not about me. It's about Jesus and what He did. My job is to share and try to stay out of the way. I have to share the truth while showing love. But my job is not to tell you no matter what you think or believe that all will be well when this life ends. It won't, and I don't wish that on anyone. I think it's a burden we should have, because we can pray to be obedient while we are praying for those who have no hope while giving it all to Jesus. It is just so overwhelming.
Have you seen the ad where the two boys are in a car wreck? And they are standing in line somewhere. And the line is getting split. It hits one boy that the people in the lines are going different places, and his friend is in the good line. And it's heartbreaking when he asks his friend in a most desperate voice, "Did you know about this? Why didn't you tell me?????" It's so powerful and should shake me up to share more. I worry too much about the wrong things - offending someone or being awkward. But we should tell our story as second nature and let God do the rest. I have not felt compelled to shake my finger in anyone's face, but I have stepped up a few times over the years and told someone I did something to help them because I thought God wanted me to. And it really is pitiful to see how few times that was.
Peter is in his senior year and probably will graduate in December. Will is still working every day and was able to haul off quite a bit in his long bed truck. It is loud, but I just thank God when I hear him coming home. Andrew has at least another year of classes and internships with his added nutrition major. He finished indoor track and is done with running for Appalachian. He is sad but ready to move on to marathons or whatever is next. He got to run at conference in Birmingham and did not have the best races. He had a couple of good races, so we were happy that he could run. And he was the top fundraiser in Laps for Apps ~ which some of you know about, because you were so generous!!! Sam is reading a little bit, and we will certainly take that.
One sweet time today was that Sam decided to run track. So Andrew started "coaching" him today. He went out again later with me to walk. We took both dogs which was an equivalent of a 10 mile workout for me - they were so excited and running and pulling me on the leashes. It was just so sweet to see Sam excited about training for track. This will serve him and his health well in the future too.
Thanks for reading this. I have a new song! It's Mercy Me's "Even If" ~ and I have played it over and over. I have a new worship CD ~ Hillsong's "Let There Be Light". "Even If" talks about praising God and talking about Him even when He does not answer us in the time or way we want. We still know He is there and in control.
"Even If" Mercy Me
Pete just got back from a long Israel trip on Wednesday. Long is 12 days! We were so ready to see him. Once I dropped him off at the airport on a Friday afternoon, we set out to clean and get rid of a ton of stuff. I had some help, but the boys were pretty busy; so I got a lot done. They did help some and haul stuff away. I have a lot more to do, but I am happy with what I got done. My next big job is Sam's room - the ceiling and trim. And then we hope to tackle our front stairs and hallway.
When Pete is gone, I have his responsibilities. I did not preach, but I did his cleaning jobs. And I miss him being here to help me and talk me through the day. We got along really well until the very last couple of days. Andrew got really sick, and I found myself very pulled and juggling a lot of different things. And before anyone fusses at me for not asking for help, I did what I needed to do when I could do it. That meant putting Sam in charge at home a couple of times for a couple of hours. He really stepped up. And I have had so many offers of help and lunch brought to me and people checking on me that I had to stop and tell God thank you for giving me the very best people to help me. He really does. And I am so very thankful.
Andrew seems better. He told me Tuesday morning that he did not remember ever feeling that terrible. He was sick later Monday night, and I got up some to check on him. But Tuesday morning was very rough on him. He ended up getting 2 1/2 bags of IV fluids. His hemoglobin was up, so we will check that again in a week or so. He was so dehydrated, and I was so worried about him. But he is much better now. My dad came over and took him to class (because he has to go to class!), while Sam and I went to the airport for Pete. Dad got him lunch, so he was able to eat for the first time in really over a day and a half.
Sam had been sick the week before with a fever off and on, which he never has! He took flu meds just in case, since he is so high risk. With no snow days, the flu and strep have been awful here. Another reason to wish for some snow! ASU is on spring break, so hopefully that will help them with their germs!
We had two really great preachers come while Pete was gone. They talked about sharing Jesus. One talked more about international missions and trips, and the other talked about local people who have not heard the Good News. Both sermons were different, but they both brought the reminder that we are to share with others. I just saw an ad with Ron Reagan (Ronald Reagan's son) who said he is an atheist and not afraid to burn in hell. It literally made me sick. He took on an air of someone trying to tell us what we need to do but began and ended the ad with his own personal beliefs. It should have made me mad, but it made me feel so sick. I did not think, "Well, he will find out one day." I have added him to my own prayer list. He cannot be happy living a life without hope. And he is not the only one. I know some people look at me and other Christians and church goers and think they would rather take their chances than be like me or associate with me. But it's not about me. It's about Jesus and what He did. My job is to share and try to stay out of the way. I have to share the truth while showing love. But my job is not to tell you no matter what you think or believe that all will be well when this life ends. It won't, and I don't wish that on anyone. I think it's a burden we should have, because we can pray to be obedient while we are praying for those who have no hope while giving it all to Jesus. It is just so overwhelming.
Have you seen the ad where the two boys are in a car wreck? And they are standing in line somewhere. And the line is getting split. It hits one boy that the people in the lines are going different places, and his friend is in the good line. And it's heartbreaking when he asks his friend in a most desperate voice, "Did you know about this? Why didn't you tell me?????" It's so powerful and should shake me up to share more. I worry too much about the wrong things - offending someone or being awkward. But we should tell our story as second nature and let God do the rest. I have not felt compelled to shake my finger in anyone's face, but I have stepped up a few times over the years and told someone I did something to help them because I thought God wanted me to. And it really is pitiful to see how few times that was.
Peter is in his senior year and probably will graduate in December. Will is still working every day and was able to haul off quite a bit in his long bed truck. It is loud, but I just thank God when I hear him coming home. Andrew has at least another year of classes and internships with his added nutrition major. He finished indoor track and is done with running for Appalachian. He is sad but ready to move on to marathons or whatever is next. He got to run at conference in Birmingham and did not have the best races. He had a couple of good races, so we were happy that he could run. And he was the top fundraiser in Laps for Apps ~ which some of you know about, because you were so generous!!! Sam is reading a little bit, and we will certainly take that.
One sweet time today was that Sam decided to run track. So Andrew started "coaching" him today. He went out again later with me to walk. We took both dogs which was an equivalent of a 10 mile workout for me - they were so excited and running and pulling me on the leashes. It was just so sweet to see Sam excited about training for track. This will serve him and his health well in the future too.
Thanks for reading this. I have a new song! It's Mercy Me's "Even If" ~ and I have played it over and over. I have a new worship CD ~ Hillsong's "Let There Be Light". "Even If" talks about praising God and talking about Him even when He does not answer us in the time or way we want. We still know He is there and in control.
"Even If" Mercy Me
They say sometimes you win some
Sometimes you lose some
And right now, right now I'm losing bad
I've stood on this stage night after night
Reminding the broken it'll be alright
But right now, oh right now I just can't
Sometimes you lose some
And right now, right now I'm losing bad
I've stood on this stage night after night
Reminding the broken it'll be alright
But right now, oh right now I just can't
It's easy to sing
When there's nothing to bring me down
But what will I say
When I'm held to the flame
Like I am right now
When there's nothing to bring me down
But what will I say
When I'm held to the flame
Like I am right now
I know You're able and I know You can
Save through the fire with Your mighty hand
But even if You don't
My hope is You alone
Save through the fire with Your mighty hand
But even if You don't
My hope is You alone
They say it only takes a little faith
To move a mountain
Well good thing
A little faith is all I have, right now
But God, when You choose
To leave mountains unmovable
Oh give me the strength to be able to sing
It is well with my soul
To move a mountain
Well good thing
A little faith is all I have, right now
But God, when You choose
To leave mountains unmovable
Oh give me the strength to be able to sing
It is well with my soul
I know You're able and I know You can
Save through…
Save through…
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