Small Steps

Recovery is slow but sure! I don't think we were prepared for the magnitude of this surgery and recovery. It's BIG...but no match for Mom's spirit! She's ready to get back to her usual walking 4 miles a day, gardening, playing with the grandkids, church activities, etc. But...it's going to be a long while before that happens....but it WILL happen. Even in the midst of total fatigue, I feel safe and peaceful as we give this all to God and rest in His loving embrace.

We are so thankful for the small steps...eating at the table, lifting her left leg, sitting up, and walking more steadily. We are looking forward to the big steps...NO walker, NO pain, getting outside, NO nausea, and enjoying a great cup of coffee first thing in the morning!

Mom's sister, Frannie, is coming this weeked from Oregon and staying a week. Mom is thrilled! For those of you who have ever seen these two together, you know what kind of week it will be! Frannie is a cancer survivor and a huge support for Mom. See ya Sunday, Frannie!

The three little grandkids (Katherine, Vaughn-Thomas, and Blane) are getting used to our "new normal." They adore their Maw-Maw and continue to light up her life. They are used to having her truly PLAY with them on a daily basis. She is always the one to play hide-n-seek, explore in the back yard, build indoor tents, dance, sing, take them to movies, take them to the park, read to them, etc. It's so amazing how kids just adapt...They are precious playing at the foot of Mom's bed, bringing her drinks, singing to her, telling her about their day, and getting excited about every card and package that Mom receives. Today, two of Mom's neices sent her a beautiful ivy topiary. Katherine opened it and took it to Mom with such excitement shouting, "Maw-Maw, look! Somebody sent us a beanstalk!" Although painful, Mom couldn't help but laugh.

Life is good and getting better. As you pray for Mom, please include in your prayers all families who are also battling the rages of cancer, and thank God for the incredible gifts and talents given to those who are seeking cures and better treatments for this disease.

Good night!