Friends, you are invited to a Thank You Open House at our home (text me if you need our address) on July 12, 2-5pm. There are so many of you who have prayed for me, thought of me, sent cards, rang bells, and helped in all the practical ways of cleaning, dog grooming/walking, picking up children from school, even being Brynn’s softball parents when we couldn’t! 

There’s no way we can thank you enough, but for friends in the Portland area, we hope you’ll stop by and let us give you a hug and a heartfelt thank you. For those of you across the country and across oceans, thank you ever so much for supporting us and lifting us up in prayer. You don’t realize how much that means to a person who can’t really even pray for themselves most days. 

It’s been a month since my last chemo treatment, and I’m not bouncing back as quickly as I had hoped. The neuropathy in my hands makes typing, writing, buttoning, unwrapping, and various other tasks hard to do. Not only are my muscles weak, but not being able to feel well is an important missing component! The neuropathy in my feet means that I often lose my balance. I’ve not fallen yet, but I’ve toppled and grabbed hold of things to stay upright. 

My overall fatigue has improved a little each day. I still lay down at intervals and take daily naps, but I can sit and stand and walk for longer than I’ve been able to for a while. 

Thank you for your prayers concerning my upcoming surgery decision. I’ve had two exams that look at my sutures, and so far, getting the ostomy reversed looks like a good possibility. I’ve decided to try for it and to relearn how to use my bowels. Because it’s going to be so life changing, I plan to wait until the fall so I can enjoy my summer. 

Our family is doing well and flourishing, despite the incredibly hard year. God has been kind to help the kids through with minimal trauma, and Stephen is regaining some pockets of rest as I’m able to engage in family life and housework more. 

We praise God for holding us fast and for giving us a community like  you!