Farther Along

Tempted and tried, we're oft made to wonder
Why it should be thus all the day long,
While there are others living about us,
Never molested, though in the wrong.

Refrain-
Farther along we'll know all about it,
Farther along we'll understand why;
Cheer up my brother, live in the sunshine,
We'll understand it all by and by.

When death has come and taken our loved ones,
It leaves our home so lonely and drear,
Then do we wonder why others prosper
Living so wicked year after year.

Faithful til death, said our loving Master
A few more days to labor and wait,
Toils of the road will then seem as nothing
As we sweep through the beautiful gate.

When we see Jesus, coming in glory,
When He comes from His home in the sky,
Then we shall meet Him in that bright mansion,
We'll understand it all by and by.

This song has been playing in my head for the last couple of months but, amazingly, I didn't connect it with my dad until listening to his tapes yesterday afternoon. When it first came to mind I was praying for a friend facing severe trials. I somehow knew we would be facing our own trial down the road, but I never guessed what it would be.

Crossing the Finish Line

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.
2 Timothy 4:7

There are no words to express the feelings. What a man, what an example! How our hearts ache, but what peace we have.

With family at his bedside, Dad passed into glory, and out of a dark and dreary sky came a ray of sunshine flooding his bed. Five minutes later the rain was pouring down and heaven cried along with us. So heaven shines a little bit brighter today and Dad is caught up into His arms.

Letting Go

For since the creation of the world His invisible [attributes] are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, [even] His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse,
Romans 1:20

I looked around the house and saw Dad everywhere. Little signs that he loves us and thought, that's just like Jesus. He leaves us little signs everywhere, little signs that He loves us.

I sat by his bed, held his hand in mine and felt the tears well up inside. We listened to visitors talking in the dining room. One mentioned having a place in Florida. Dad glanced my way and said, "Would you ever want to live in Florida?" "No," I said, "Maybe somewhere in between like Tennessee or..." "Or Fairport," he said. I laughed out loud. Fairport is just 20 miles south of my parents' house. This is home and Dad never had any desire to move away.

Though weak and sleepy, he still hears everything. He knows what is going on around him and every once in a while will join in the conversation. He knows each one who comes to the bedroom door, each one who kisses his forehead, each one who stops to reaffirm his or her love. He knows our tears.

It has been a hard weekend. I found myself returning time after time to Dad's bedside this evening, sitting on that chair by the bed, and taking his hand in mine. I was afraid to go home, afraid to leave him, afraid he won't be there when I return, and at the same time praying for his departure. "Lord Jesus, Please take my Dad home." It was all I could say. He can't get up, he can barely talk... Though I miss him terribly already, I am ready to let him go.

What Can I Say?

We all feel a bit like someone has "shuffled the deck," but underneath the unsettledness is a settled feeling hard to explain and difficult to understand. With each new day comes a new realization that life will never be the same again. Dad can no longer get out of bed without help and he is taking morphine on a regular schedule to ease his pain and help him sleep. In a little less than four weeks time our world has been turned upside down, but we are not alone and we are not without much to thank God for. There are others who never had a chance to say goodbye to their loved ones. There are others who don't have a lifetime full of love and happy memories. There are others who don't have a Savior to turn to in times of grief. They say that "parting is such sweet sorrow" and I guess I understand that a little better each day.

Being Prepared

One of my dad's favorite past times is collecting firewood. A downed tree means some fun for him. "Scrounging" he calls it. With permission he cuts it up, tosses it in his trailer, takes it home and stacks it in the woodshed. Although the house is outfitted with hot water baseboard heating, Dad has always enjoyed a winter fire in the old wood stove. This year hasn't been much different than previous ones. Dad has been out collecting firewood though not quite so diligently or enthusiastically. I know he has been sick much longer than four weeks, but like the Energizer Bunny, he kept going and going. If he could just get out of bed, he'd be out there again.

I looked in the woodsheds this afternoon and Dad is prepared for winter. He is also prepared and waiting for Jesus. He is ready to go home. We are preparing ourselves to let him go. It is hard but we know the day is fast approaching. We are beginning to pray for his release. Though there will be tears, there will also be rejoicing as he is loosed from his suffering. We will be left behind, but not for long.

Going to Mom's

I'm going to my parent's house this afternoon. Dad had a rough night.

Getting Out

We've had some beautiful weather this week, sunny days and warm temperatures. I've decided to take the girls out tomorrow. Maybe they will enjoy feeding the birds at Mendon Ponds. It is a long drive for small girls but I'm hoping they will find it fun. I'll need to take a helper along, someone to help steady small hands while the birds land. Troy found it a little scary so maybe they will too. We'll see.

I took my camera out in the backyard this afternoon. Jasmine came home for several hours and thought maybe I was going for a walk. Unfortunately, I didn't have enough time and she was rather disappointed. It would have been a great time to get some fresh air and exercise. I settled for just fresh air and a few photos. Maybe next time Jazz comes home we can go for a hike.
I'm hoping to pick up some apples this weekend. When I took Sofie out for her morning adventure the air smelled like apples. It must be an early morning thing as by the time I took the girls to preschool it was no longer noticeable. It just isn't autumn without an apple pie or two... or three.

Happy Birthday, Jim!

Happy Birthday, my son!
You are the one who brought me a special gift; the name "Mom." Albuquerque in September of 1981 can seem both long ago and like yesterday at the same time. The days and years have hurried by and now you are grown and living far away, but my love for you remains the same.
Thank you for coming into my life, for teaching me how to love unconditionally, and for showing me just how much my own mom and dad love me. Of course, I wish I was with you on your special day, to give you a hug and tell you how much I love you. I am blessed to have you as my son!
(I hope the delivery arrived safe and was yummy!)

Life's Railway to Heaven

My Dad is tired. Though the will to live is there, it appears the strength is not. One day he feels good and the next he cannot eat and sleeps much of the day. His banjo rests while his harmonica lays silent. He runs tape recordings of himself playing the old gospel songs... Do we hold on or do we let go? I find myself wanting to do a little of each, not wanting to say goodbye and yet knowing that the time must come. I wonder, does he hear the train whistle blowing?

Life's Railway to Heaven

Life is like a mountain railroad,
With an engineer that’s brave;
We must make the run successful,
From the cradle to the grave;
Watch the curves, the fills, the tunnels;
Never falter, never quail;
Keep your hand upon the throttle,
And your eye upon the rail.

Chorus:
Blessed Savior, Thou wilt guide us,
Til we reach that blissful shore;
Where the angels wait to join us
In thy praise for evermore.

You will roll up grades of trial;
You will cross the bridge of strife;
See that Christ is your conductor;
On this light’ning train of life;
Always mindful of obstruction,
Do your duty, never fail;
Keep your hand upon the throttle, and your eye upon the rail.

You will often find obstruction;
Look for storms of wind and rain;
On a hill, or curve, or trestle.
They will almost ditch your train;
Put your trust alone in Jesus;
Never falter, never fail;
Keep your hand upon the throttle, and your eye upon the rail.

As you roll across the trestle,
Spanning Jordan’s swelling tide.
You behold the Union depot
Into which your train will guide.
There you’ll meet the Superintendent,
God the father, God the son
With the hearty, joyous plaudit,
“Weary pilgrim, welcome Home!”

Drive-In Theatre

What do guys love best? Why cars and drive-in movies, of course. This was Grandpa's idea and Lucas thought it a good one. He had been driving around wondering what to do when, BINGO!, the idea struck! Why not go to the movies? Why pull up a chair when you can drive up the car? (He stayed on the seat today...)

So, here is is watching Veggie Tales Lord of the Beans. We don't often turn on the tube during the daytime, so one has to enjoy it while he can. And he did.

More Birds in the Hand

They move fast and as soon as one flies away another is there to take its place. Well, sometimes that's how it works... Other times we just stand there with our hands out in the air until our shoulders are so tired they ache.

A Bird in the Hand

I felt the need to get out for a walk yesterday afternoon so we took a ride to Mendon Ponds and hiked the Bird Song Trail. The birds were out today and at least a few were eager for a handout.

There is nothing quite like the feel of tiny claws wrapped about one's finger. Chelsie (Hannah's friend) screamed the first time one landed in her hand. I have become accustomed to the scratchy touch of a chickadee and I no longer duck when they fly straight toward me.

The walk was good for me, a stress reliever of sorts. We stopped to see Mom and Dad on the way home but didn't stay too long, just long enough to let them know we love them and show them my video of the birds eating out of my hand.

A new week is beginning and I have much to do...

O God, You have taught me from my youth;
And to this day I declare Your wondrous works.
Now also when I am old and gray-headed,
O God, do not forsake me,
Until I declare Your strength to this generation,
Your power to everyone who is to come.
Psalm 71:17-18


Josiah and I had a good visit with my mom and dad last night. Josh came to play today and I got my hair cut. Tonight we made pizza for supper. I'm hoping the migraine I've been fighting since yesterday morning will not return tonight.

Circle Up

Hear the hum of angel curiosity
The children of the Lord are gathering
Finally the Day weve all been dreaming of
Caught up forever in His love!

Circle up, circle up around the throne
Old and young, saints of every history
Great and small, angels all and seraphim
Grab a hand, twirl a dance
Circle up and worship Him
Grab a hand, twirl a dance
Circle up and worship Him

Hear the thunder of unfolding wings
Feel the mighty wind their beating brings
Rain your grateful tears and flood the floor
Rise up and worship like a storm!

Circle up, circle up around the throne
Old and young, saints of every history
Great and small, angels all and seraphim
Grab a hand, twirl a dance
Circle up and worship Him
Grab a hand, twirl a dance
Circle up and worship Him

Now hear His golden voice above it all
Hes saying, This tear is the last to fall!
A few simple words, another storm He calms
Invites us all into His arms!

Circle up, circle up around the throne
Old and young, saints of every history
Great and small, angels all and seraphim
Grab a hand, twirl a dance
Circle up and worship Him

He Will Carry Me

Even to your old age, I am He, And even to gray hairs I will carry you! I have made and I will bear; Even I will carry, and will deliver you.
Isaiah 46:4

There are so many things on my mind that I find it difficult to sleep at night. I am somewhat used to waking up several times a night, but waking up with a racing mind is not restful at all. By the time morning arrives, I am nearly as exhausted as when I climbed into bed the night before. Although I am still reading my Bible before turning off the light, I have neglected to pray, neglected to ask the Father who loves me so much to be with me through the night. In the jumble of thoughts, my prayers have become lost, and yet He continues to carry me, for I am His child and He loves me.

Personality comes into play with Dad's illness. Rachel finds herself continually returning to our childhood home to check on Mom and Dad. She calls often and stops almost daily. She is once again the little girl on the tricycle, repeatedly going back to check on her wounded mother, never quite convinced everything will be okay. I find myself somewhat withdrawn at the moment. With the assertion that our help is not necessary and Dad feeling overwhelmed, I have the tendency to pull back, to feel uncertain, and doubt my own involvement in the process. I am not quite sure how to feel or think. I'm not quite sure where I fit in. I have never doubted my parents love for me or the fact that I am welcome in their home. I know they do not want me to stay away, especially now, but my own insecurities get in the way. I don't have time to wait; if I do I will lose my last opportunities to experience my dad, and yet something holds me back.

The above verse was given to my sister, Priscilla, by a friend just last week. There is comfort in the scripture for every occasion and we find it there now. Where would we be without Him? I can't imagine facing this uncertainty with out the love of God and His arms enfolding us.

Boys and Their Cars

Cars are just downright disappointing!

Tell Me When It Hurts

And a man's enemies will be those of his own house
Matthew 10:36

I know we are not alone and yet the words sting. They sting not because I am hurt, for the offense is not really against me or those I love, but against my Lord and Savior. They do not understand, this I know, but neither do they want to. Even the mention of God's name arouses anger and hatred. How can this be when there has been no offense committed and nothing but love offered? Although the words cut deep, the pain is not for me but for those we love, those speaking hurtful words, those who are running, running from the God who created them, running from the God who loves them so much He sent his Son to die in their place.

I am grateful for a God who loves me too. He knows when I need a word of encouragement, an act of kindness, the prayers of a friend, or even a chance meeting in a stressful situation (like the hospital). Not only did we receive a card of encouragement from a friend in this afternoon's mail, but a package showed up on my back steps too. A box full of love from the Pacific Northwest. Ah, there is not only hatred and animosity out there, but love and kindness too! Thank you, Judi, and tell Papa that his BBQ sauce was wonderful on our burgers tonight! The pickles will set until the end of October even though they are calling to me through the glass. I see them smiling. And your jam is on the way!

If the package from Judi weren't enough, I also had a phone call from a special, faraway friend who called to talk and offer her love and encouragement. What an awesome God! He not only knows what I need and when, but He makes sure of the delivery too.

Sign in the Church Cafe

Grace, Grace

Casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.
1 Peter 5:7

Grace for today is all that is needed. Why can't I remember that? I don't need to be a leaf blowing in the wind when I am safe in my Father's hand.

Leaves

Last night James went out to do one of Dad's nursing home services. I stayed home. After talking with my sister for a bit, I decided I needed to do something and went to look for my paints and brushes. Leaves are growing on my wisteria vine. They may be slow to appear, but they are growing!

I must admit, my mind is muddled. I'm not quite sure where I fit in to the picture with my parents. Going back to "normal" feels almost impossible, but they want to give it a try. They don't need us there to help right now. We have been asked not to come, so here I am trying to settle my mind.

I am still in the process of figuring out our school year. Hannah's IHIP's have been written but not put into the mail. Books have been ordered but they haven't arrived. I'm not sure whether I'm looking forward to school or not.

Time Traveler

Today is filled with a mix of uncertainty and fluctuating hormones, and so I take you on a trip back to when life was simpler, at least for me...

There was a time, not so long ago, when after the supper dishes were cleared away, the family would gather around the dining room table and draw or color. While Mom washed the dishes, Dad sat and played with us.

Some of my first people. I think they look lollipops.

A train, a train, a train, a train...

Priscilla has always been good at drawing people.
This is Grandma.

And one of Mommy too.

Some of Rachel's early people.

And a first grade friend too.

A Bend In the Road

Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound,
That saved a wretch like me.
I once was lost but now am found,
Was blind, but now I see.

T'was Grace that taught my heart to fear.
And Grace, my fears relieved.
How precious did that Grace appear
The hour I first believed.

Through many dangers, toils and snares
I have already come;
'Tis Grace that brought me safe thus far
and Grace will lead me home.

The Lord has promised good to me.
His word my hope secures.
He will my shield and portion be,
As long as life endures.

The road ahead is uncertain. Dad is tired. In some ways he seems discouraged. He had hoped to return to church and at least one of his nursing home services, but fatigue and lack of strength have kept him home. Even playing his instruments leaves him tired. Saturday afternoon we bought him a touch lamp for his nightstand. He wanted to pay for it, but I told him it was a Christmas present. No more stumbling through the darkness on his way to and from the bathroom. I find it difficult to determine how much help he needs and how much independence is necessary. As a family we struggle to know how often to be there and when Mom and Dad need time alone. We have come to a bend in the road, a hairpin curve of sorts, and although we are sure of the destination, the way is strange and unfamiliar.

And the pendulum swings...

This morning I had a phone call from Mom. Dad wants us to back off a little. He loves the attention but he wants to get back to normal. No overnight stays are necessary; visits are welcome, but he doesn't need anyone to do everything for him. He feels the need to be more active (this has always been his way) and wants to be up and about. He wants to walk around in his yard (no one has tried to stop him) and talks again of going back to a couple of his nursing home services. I ask only for wisdom and grace; wisdom to know what to do and grace to follow through.

Walking

On Friday afternoon we took the girls for an orchard walk. They both wanted to hold the dog's leash. They both wanted to blow the fuzzies of dandelion puffs. On our way back up to the house we found some late in the season blueberries. Mmmm, mmmm, good!

The Marble Game

I stayed the weekend with Mom and Dad. At this point in time I am really a listening pair of ears in the dark of the night as Mom removed her hearing aids to sleep. I heard a small crash in the next room between Friday night and Saturday morning. I knew it was nothing serious, but I got up and asked "Are you alright?" from Dad's doorway. He had been up to the bathroom, got disoriented in the dark, and knocked his little clock off the night stand. I turned on the dim light, he picked it up and climbed into bed. Yesterday we went out and bought him a "Touch Lamp" (for Christmas) and set it up by his bed where he can turn the light on and off before getting out of bed and after climbing back in.

Settling In

The diagnosis is now over a week old. Dad is home from the hospital and things are beginning to settle back into a routine, a new routine. Each night one of us takes an overnight pack and stays at the house with them and each day someone is there to look out for their needs. We are struggling to determine just how much help they need and when they need time alone. It is a guessing game, in some ways, for all of us.

Cancer is a hidden disease and one never really knows how it will strike or how quickly it will progress. We are encouraged that although Dad ate very little in the hospital, his appetite seems to have returned at home. (Mom really does make the best poached eggs!) He is still enjoying his favorite spots in the house and looking often for his banjo. He is eager to return to at least one of his nursing home services, The Maplewood in Webster.

In times of trial I am grateful for the love of my Savior. I can trust Him with all my tomorrows as He gives me grace and strength to get through the present day. I can't imagine living without that comfort and this is why I wish all of my family had the blessing of knowing God's love. There is nothing like it.

Facing the Sun

For many days I have seen these giant sunflowers, growing along the road, their faces toward the sun. They have one focus in their short life, to soak up all the sunshine they can. I find it incredible that in the bud stage most sunflowers rotate their faces from east to west, following the sun across the sky, and at night turn back to face the east once more, waiting for the sun to rise again. What an example of how we are to live; facing the Son, following Him through the day, and looking for Him new in the morning...

My days continue to be busy. Hannah and I cleaned out the kitchen cupboard this afternoon, washed every dish, and bleached the shelves. No more mouse remnants. In the process I learned I have too many dishes. Tonight I went grocery shopping and stopped to see Mom and Dad on the way. What an incredible blessing they are to me as they continue to follow Jesus in their twilight years, their faces toward the Son, always trusting and leaning upon Him for strength. I hope one day I can be just like them.

Another Busy Day

It was another busy day. I actually had a chance to sit down and order Hannah some school books (nothing like waiting until the last minute...), and vacuumed all the grass and tree dropping up off the floor. We are down one mouse and, hopefully, will soon find the time to empty the cupboards and clean out all the "evidence". Wouldn't want company find that!

I made it to church this evening but had a hard time staying awake. Guess I am not quite caught up on my sleep yet, or maybe I'm just not quite used to my new schedule. The girls are getting used to a new schedule too. Bella would just as soon have stayed here and played toys this morning. Emma, on the other hand, was raring to go. She had something wonderful for "Show and Tell", Queen Anne's Lace and seashells. I have to laugh because these two little girls remind me so much of Shirley Temple. I wonder if they can tap dance...

My "garden" is slow growing. I bought some new paintbrushes but have yet to find some time and inspiration to break out the paint. This is the pillar and wisteria vine my friend, Michelle, started last week. Maybe I need to focus on a new carpet remnant and the table and chairs instead and then worry about the flowers.

My computer clock reads 10:01 pm and it is time for me to go to bed. Tomorrow I must get the oil changed in my van, make a stop at the post office, and visit Shelly while I wait for my vehicle. I think I just might clean out my refrigerator and get rid of some things that have been hiding in there much too long.

A-R-I-T-H-M-E-T-I-C

A Rat In The House May Eat The Ice Cream... or maybe a mouse will.
Our cats are not doing their job, or maybe we just have a rather intelligent mouse living in our kitchen. Too bad for him he is not smart enough not to leave evidence scattered around in cabinets and on counter tops. I've given him ample time to move on, but it is apparent his residency is permanent, at least in his opinion. A couple of peanut butter laden mouse traps will be spending the night in our kitchen and maybe tomorrow we will be short mouse or two. (The photo is borrowed. I couldn't kill him if I had to look into his eyes first.)

This morning I woke at 6:30 am, took my shower and found myself presentable when Emma arrived dressed like a princess for her first day of preschool. Bella was every bit as cute. I gave them each a kiss on the forehead before leaving them for the morning and heading over to church for Ladies' prayer. (What a blessing to meet with these precious women.) After picking up my forgotten purse at my parent's house, I headed back to town to retrieve the little girls and bring them home for lunch, some playtime, and a nap. I took a nap too, in James' big chair. When the girls went home, I dragged some long waiting fruit out of the fridge and made a batch of peach jam. Josh came to visit for the evening, and I made a second batch of jam. I just hate to throw all that fruit in the trash can... The laundry is folded and I am exhausted. My bed is calling me and I hear it loud and clear. Tomorrow will be a slower day and maybe we'll have a chance to look at Ben and Hannah's school work while the girls are at school. We can always hope.

If you get a chance, visit my sisters' blogs and leave them a word of encouragement. We are blessed by your kind words and thank God every day for the wonderful parents He blessed us with. We know our time together is growing short, but God is good. He has never left us and we know He never will.

The Children's Place

It has been an exhausting week. Tomorrow morning a new day will dawn and I will be turning a new corner. "My girls" will arrive earlier than Troy did and so I must rise an hour and a half earlier each morning. It was my plan to hit the sack much earlier than normal, but I'm afraid I don't have a very good start. I'm going into this already tired but God knows and He will provide the strength needed; He always has.

On Wednesday past I had five extra children. We had a great day and it was as if Troy had never left. Still affectionate and loving, I think I miss him more now than I did in May. I hope we have plenty of opportunities to catch up with him throughout the school year. He really is looking forward to riding the bus and going to school with his big brother. Can't say as I blame him.

Tyler, who usually isn't quite sure what to do here, had a wonderful time pushing Lucas around the yard in the stroller. It kept Lucas happy and allowed me to spend a bit of time with Troy, Josh, and Emma. I hadn't known that Ty was so interested in little people and it was nice to see him interact with the baby. Not too many little boys want to hang out with a baby, although mine never seemed to mind.

Of course, Josh thought all the activity was great. He had a wonderful time playing outside with the boys, and riding in and pulling the wagon. Yes, I may be tired, and of course a bit distracted by other happenings, but I am also looking forward to this new adventure. I can even go the Ladies' Prayer tomorrow while the girls attend preschool! I can't wait for that either.

Home Again

"Home" It is a sweeter word today. Dad came home from the hospital Saturday afternoon. Once he was in the house, Rachel asked him what he wanted to do. His reply put the smile back on my face and a bit of hope in my heart. "I want to sit on my back porch," he said, "and I want my banjo." That is my dad! He is weak, he is tired, he is hopeful. It is an unknown journey we are facing and there is much trepidation. I am afraid, but I intend to enjoy my dad for as long as the Lord allows.

My son, Jim, flew home from Minnesota Friday morning. His dad called him Thursday and advised him to come home and not to wait too long. He didn't waste any time getting here and I am grateful for his presence with us this weekend. Tomorrow morning he must return to Minneapolis and start his new job Tuesday, but he was here. I'm sure it means as much to his Grandpa as it has to James and I.

Last night I stayed overnight at my parent's house. Dad's double bed has been moved into a spare room and a hospital bed moved into his. Mom has slept in a hospital bed since she went on oxygen eight years ago. Where have the days gone where both of my parents slept snug together in their own bed? Where have those days of childhood gone and what is it that lies ahead?

A Strange Path

It has been a week of many tears. I went to bed with a lump in my throat Monday night. I thought I could hold it together but once the light went out I found I couldn't. After Wednesday's cancer diagnosis the tears ran in the dark of night and I couldn't stop them. They come in waves. Sometimes my heart is sad and heavy and other times we talk and laugh. This morning we met with a woman from hospice. (It is a foreign word.) Tonight we have a family meeting to figure out how we can bring Dad home and take care of him and Mom.

Through all of this I am amazed at the sense of peace my father has. He quotes scriptures with his eyes closed (always has) and encourages us. He is not afraid. He is looking forward and has no regrets behind him. He is a hero.

July 2003

Dear Mom and Dad,

Thank you for all the wonderful childhood memories that make me smile even today. So many are the everyday memories of just being part of a family and things parents do "just because". Thank you for holding me on your lap in the rocking chair, for singing me songs and tucking me into bed at night. Thank you for helping me put on my socks and for tying my shoes. Thank you for the last sip of coffee in your cup, for Lifesavers during church, and for letting me watch you make dinner. Thank you for threatening to warm up your icy hands on my warm tummy, for bananas and milk at night, and a pet dog. Thank you for loving my friends. Thank you for taking us to the roller-skating rink so many summer nights. Thank you for drawing pictures with us and taking us to Sunday school. Thank you for camping trips and picnics, for letting us pick vegetables in your garden, and for bicycles. Thank you for all those Fisher-Price toys and the blocks for building houses. Thank you for Five-Day Bible Club in our backyard and for taking the whole neighborhood to VBS in the back of the Toyota pickup. Thank you for teaching us about Jesus and praying for us. Dad, thank you for driving all the way to Albuquerque to bring James, Jimmy, and me back home to New York. Thank you for all the many, many ways you show your love for us.

Love
Martha

Random Stuff

I'm not sure what to say
We are waiting for lab results for Dad.
He is concerned about Mom.
Mom seems to be doing fine.
I had much to pray for at Ladies' prayer this morning.
My friend, Michelle, came over to help me with my "garden".
We didn't paint much.
I'll post a photo tomorrow.
Bethany and I went to visit my dad this evening.
He looks tired.
I need to be up by 6:30 am tomorrow.
There will be five extra children here.
I like having a house full of children.
I'll be tired tomorrow evening.
I need to go to bed.