Tonight we lit up the charcoals and roasted hot dogs over the flame. We finally had success with the coals (third time’s a charm) and in fact Tim wished he had a steak to grill after the hot dogs were consumed. We had a nice laugh and enjoyed each other’s company. My family has been wonderful through this whole process. Tim is such a strong person, holding us all up with his broad shoulders. I can’t imagine going through this without him by my side. My kids (21 and 15) are keeping me positive. A sticky noted with “smile, today’s going to be a great day (smiley)” made its way to my bathroom mirror, and the energy hugs I get from my daughter keep me going every day.
It was a good time for a fun family picnic, for tomorrow will be a full day of testing. I imagine it will not only be a day of testing my physical body, but may also test us spiritually. It feels like a long day ahead.
I have to go downtown Houston to give blood first thing in the morning (7:45 AM). They are doing two CT scans tomorrow, and then I meet with the inflammatory specialist at 1:00 PM. Hopefully we will have more information by tomorrow night, but at this point they are determining how progressive (and serious) this thing is.
Emotionally we are doing pretty well. We have been inundated with love and prayers. Each time we pray before we eat, go to bed at night, and start the day, we ask the Lord to heal my body. Pastor Don and Debbie anointed and prayed with me Sunday morning, and his message on Joy (the opposite of fear) was a solid reminder not to let Satan rob me of the joy that the Lord has placed in my heart. It is challenging. While the pressing weight of tomorrow’s consult makes it difficult to be joyful, I will stand with James who writes, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers (and sisters), whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance” (James 1:2-3).
We are certain we have many silent prayer partners as well as those who have decided to share their prayers and concerns with us publicly. It’s ok if you don’t want to comment or say anything at all. Sometimes it’s easier to go through it yourself than to watch someone else going through it. God hears even the slightest whisper. We do appreciate the words of encouragement, as well as the laughter and know we have lots and lots of friends.
Until tomorrow…
Cindy, I am in constant prayer. It’s hard to believe this is happening. I had no problem when I was diagnosed with cancer, but it is hard to think that the monster has attacked you,too. I know that He that is in us is greater than he that is in the world, so we both will fight against that monster. God always takes care of me and I am trusting that He will do the same for you. He is still a God of miracles, and I sure would like to see one now. I love you. Give Tim and Elizabeth a hug for me and let them hug you back for me. Mom
My sweet Cindy,
We are praying constantly! Let me share with you one of my favorite bible verses – goes perfectly with the teaching you shared on fear: “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging. – Psalm 46:1-3 (NIV)”
He will give us strength in the time of trouble. He will remove our fear; even when it seems like the earth around us is falling apart. HE is bigger than any of our fears!
We LOVE you!!!
Dawn & Rob
I am praying. I haven’t commented before because I haven’t really known what to say, but I am praying. One of my classmembers told our learning hour class this past Sunday that peace is when you are calm. We then talked about how that the world around us can be everything but calm, but when we have God’s peace we can be calm in the midst of everything else. That is what I am praying for all of you today–that you have peace and are calm in the midst of the tests and as you hear the report. May the God of Peace enfold you today!
Thank you Margaret. We sense God’s peace. Words of wisdom in your learning hour class. We have wi-fi in the waiting room. The CT is up next.
I forgot to tell you that my class is 3rd – 5th graders and the student with such wisdom is a 3rd grade student.
Praying
Thanks Irene! God is good.
Wanted you to know that I was devastated to hear about your diagnosis and that you have been in my thoughts since. I still remember lots of love and laughter. XOxo
I love you Bonnie! It is good to hear from you and I too remember lots of love and laughter. These memories bring good medicine to my soul. Keep praying. God is bigger than all our problems. XXOO
Constantly praying! You know I am quietly thinking, pondering, and praying for you my dear friend. Words cannot express what you are going through! Wish I could physically be with you tomorrow to wrap my arms around you. I am with you in spirit. Praying for healing!
We are going to have to get together, play some cards, have some time to laugh. I’m sure Bob’s corny jokes will keep us in stitches. 🙂 Wi-fi is strong here in the building, so we have just moved our virtual office from Panera to MD Anderson for the day. Keep up the prayers. Definitely can feel it!
Praying….read something interesting today. “Do not pray for more peace instead pray for more Jesus. He is our Peace.” I’ve prayed for peace many times. But from now on, but especially during the uncertainty of tomorrow, I’m praying that you will be overwhelmed by the very Presence of Peace and He will be so close you will hear his heart beat….
I love that Jena! Thank you. I need lots of Jesus.