The calendar shows that my surgery is in two weeks, so our goal is to stay connected to each other, to our kids, and to God. Finding time for all the many important relationships in this season of life is tough, but a joy. Thank you for all of the cards, texts, practical helps, and your patience as I often take a while to respond. I see all the ways you're loving me, and it lends me courage.

As you might know, this summer I was offered a part-time admin position at my church. I began working on August 6 and was diagnosed with cancer on August 29. God's timing makes me smile. He knew what he was doing to give me a job that fits my skill set, my schedule (with 4 kids in 3 schools), and my love for my church. Hinson staff has been gracious to give me all the time I need to heal and recover.

This new job has been life-giving in so many ways, and I look forward to it every day. However, it means that 4 out of 5 school days a week, my child-free time is claimed by commuting, working, and sometimes squeezing in a quick errand. Connection with Stephen has been in short supply.

Our dear friends, the Morgans, watched our kids and dog overnight so Stephen and I could slip to Astoria for 24 hours away. It was peaceful to drive through beautiful Oregon listening to music, talking when we wanted, and being quiet when we wanted. The quiet was my favorite since we usually don't get much of it.

In Astoria we ate melt-in-your-mouth food, watched the many ships sail past (one was the West Virginia), read books, wandered the shops, and swam in the pool. Of course we toured the Columbia River Maritime Museum (Stephen's a huge naval fan!) where we learned that the confluence of the Columbia River and the Pacific Ocean create the worst wave conditions on the planet. Now you know too.

The weekend was such a refresher and gave us time to talk about the shift our lives are taking. I'm feeling a little more nervous now that things are getting closer. Though I'm not in pain, life with cancer is a bit more time-consuming and undignified. 

Please pray that we would be able to prepare our kids well for what's ahead and that we would walk with them as present and connected parents. While that might not be always possible, we know so many of you will be there for them.  And most of all, we look to God for his presence, power, kindness, and care. That's the connection we treasure most.