Melt Down

Each of us, in turn, melted down a little today. We've been going at this for awhile, and it seems to have caught up with us. One by one, we each experienced a few moments of great sorrow.

It is so wonderful to have a family. Even when family is not physically present, there is great comfort.

Each of you that have been praying for us, helping meet physical needs, and reading these blogs, is a part of our family, and have provided a measure of comfort to us. And for that, we are truly thankful. Tonight however, one person deserves special mention.

When Jane and I were first dating, her sister Terry called one day sobbing to tell us that her husband had just died. I barely knew her at the time; but Jane and I spent the whole day with her, helping to get things situated. The next week we helped her make funeral arrangements, and I was given the honor and privilege to present the eulogy at her husband's memorial service.

That was 22 years ago. And now, Terry is here with us, spending whole days, taking time away from her family and work to help me take care of Jane. During my "meltdown" today I asked her, "How long did it take you to get over Pat?" She replied, "A long time, but to this day I still cry from time to time." Being able to talk with her about it was good.

So, I want to declare publicly my heartfelt thanks for Jane's sister, and all that she is. Thank you Terry.

Family Arrived

My son Brent, wife Shelly, and granddaughter Lily arrived from Michigan today. We got them settled in to the Salbasgeon Inn, and headed back to our home for a quick visit.

Each time we have talked with Lily on the phone over the past two years, she has grown so quickly in her speech. It was awesome to see her in the pink (and as a little girl, she does wear pink)! She is so beautiful; and Jane was pleased to see her. We visited for about half an hour, and I took them back to the Inn; upon my return Jane was very tired out.

You see, last night was not a very good night for Jane. I will spare the gory details, but suffice it to say that the doctor is pretty sure her bowel is obstructed now. We awoke at 2:15AM and Jane was sick to her stomach. We finally got settled back down about 3:15.

It was very difficult for me to go back to sleep (even as exhausted as I was) and while I was laying in bed, I began to count on my hand the number of days until her sisters will arrive. One, two, three, four . . . five . . . . . six. "Oh Lord, will Jane make it another six days?" We called her sisters this morning and urged them to come earlier than planned, so they're driving from California tomorrow and will be here tomorrow night.

It's late now, and Jane is settled in (I pray for the whole night this night) so I'll sign off for now. Please pray for her to have a good night if you're still up.