Long week behind me...few more long days ahead...

Buddy's mom's service went very well on Monday and I continue to marvel at God's timing in everything. It was such a blessing to be able to be a part of things, even knowing my next day was chemo. Singing went well, and it felt good to sing again! And, in spite of the circumstances, it was very good to see many old friends at the "Valley" and have time with family. We are thankful in so many ways.

Chemo went okay too. Since it was a new drug and protocol, I had more anxiety than I expected heading into it, but things went smoothly. And overall, they say this is an easier treatment. I don't have some of the annoying side effects that went with the other meds ( 4 day headache, burning eyes, etc.). So, these few days are a bit easier. My shakes from steroids are not as bd and my sugars have been better. That alone helps tremendously. Fatigue is still the same, and I have joint and muscle pain. But, not as much nausea, thankfully. We will see how things progress...just glad I am underway again. I do seem to be catching a nasty cold, so I will be in touch with docs if necessary on how to handle that - blah...

In the midst of all the chaos surrounding the last few weeks and days, there are things that speak to me over and over again of the Lord's unfailing love and faithfulness to us. When leaving for chemo on Tuesday, the "Jesus Calling" entry started with, ironically:

"Give yourself fully to the adventure of today. Walk boldly along the path of Life, relying on your ever-present Companion. You have every reason to be confident, because My Presence accompanies you all the days of your life."

And He was ever-present...

Then, this morning:

"Thank me for the conditions that are requiring you to be still. Do not spoil these quiet hours by wishing them away, waiting impatiently to be active again. Some of the greatest works of My kingdom have been done from sick beds and prison cells...Limitations can be liberating when your strongest desire is living close to Me."

Boy does that echo what I am feeling right now. Being a 'doer', it has been hard at times to stay still. The Lord has helped in keeping me content, but it still rises up at times. Right now, we have Buddy's Florida family (brother Bob and all) and his sister, Tina and clan here to be together. I am hibernating in my little room, going out once in a while. Just can't handle the noise and crowd, but they are more than understanding and patient. Normally, I'd be baking cookies, serving the crowd, playing the games...but not in this season of life. And that's okay...

Thankful thoughts:

• Being able to sing on Monday
• Enjoying some extended family time, no matter what the circumstances...
• My heating pad...feels good on sore ankles
• That I had no adverse reaction to the Taxol
• Sweet time at chemo with my sister and hubby
• Coming home to candles lit, ice water and covers ready, even diet ginger ale next to my chair...wonder who did that, Kristen?
• Delicious meals - thank you Rita and Denise. What a gift every meal has been!
• A yellow-bellied sapsucker at my birdfeeder this morning (Kristen used to call them 'blueberry thumbsuckers"!
• the amazing men and women at Great Valley Church who made Monday so much easier on us - gentle and kind service, prayer, meal, speaking, hugs

Sorry I have been so quiet these days...truly haven't had the energy or time, but I'm hanging in there. 5 down, 3 to go!

Blessings to you all. I covet your prayers in so many ways.