A Positive Update

Last Sunday when I was in bed sick, I thought to myself, "How am I going to work this week, let alone help Mom while Dad is away?" The answer was, "With God's help and in His strength, of course!" I shouldn't have even worried about the future for I had already seen the Lord work miraculously in this way many times before. Though, He did amaze me again by providing our family with a wonderful week.

Dad's business trip to Sweden went well; he called us everyday with encouraging updates. Back home, Mom kept the house and family running smoothly. Qavah got her transfusion, so she is feeling better. I was able to work everyday this week, plus attend an in-service training, help Mom around the home, and babysit Qavah as needed. Mom and I even accomplished some more much-needed spring cleaning.

Late tonight, we pick Dad up from the airport. So tomorrow, life will probably return to our "normal" routines. However, until then, I'm smiling from ear to ear as I recount the many blessings and answers to prayers that have occurred in the last seven days. Since my joy is over-flowing, I hope it's also encouraging and contagious!

"How great is Your goodness, which You have stored up for those who fear You, which You bestow in the sight of men on those who take refuge in You." Psalm 31:19

Wednesday's Writing Wishes

Today at work, the administrative assistant was using a typewriter to finish some letters and invoices (even though each employee has a computer of their own). Her fingers were moving very fast! Generally speaking, I do not like repetitive noises, but there was something strangely comforting and amusing hearing tap, tap, tap rather than click, click, click. The entire scenario got me thinking about my own writing preferences.

I have recently discovered that I enjoy reading and writing on others' blogs, websites, and posts more than updating my Kathryn's Keepsakes. I find it easier to write the old-fashioned way using paper and pen (thankfully not with a quill feather!) than typing on a computer keyboard. My thoughts flow more readily and smoothly that way.

During school, I would write out long-hand the first or second (third or even fourth!) drafts of papers instead of using "modern" technology like the computer keyboard or cassette tape recorder. And if that was not odd enough, I used a pencil only when it was absolutely required.

To this day, I generally prefer a fine point pen rather than a standard number-two pencil or lead pencil. As a child, my English teachers would sometimes shake their heads in disbelief or comment aloud regarding my method of writing. And to be even more complicated, I couldn't read cursive well. Even now, when I have the choice, I politely request the writer to jot down their thoughts in print instead of cursive.

Did you ever meet someone with such specific preferences for a "simple" task like writing?? Perhaps you shouldn't answer that question! *grin* Personally, I have never met anyone else with such precise requests. Yes, it is fun to be unique. Even my writing wishes are in an organized fashion!

**In conclusion, I can't believe tomorrow is Thursday already, but I'm glad the weekend is almost upon us. It was a long health week, because I did not have some of the medicines I needed to keep my body balanced, even though I had called the pharmacy and doctor last week. I finally got the prescription fulfilled today. Friday, I have a Remicade infusion, which I really need as well.**

Working Joyfully

I returned to work this morning with a surprise left on my desk: a pile of paperwork and a long to-do list! Somehow, I had gotten in my brain that since yesterday was a federal holiday, most people would be off of work and hence I could return to the clean cubicle I had left last Thursday. Well, that dream didn't quite happen the way I anticipated. As the morning hours ticked by, I completed my responsibilities and checked them off my planner one by one. By 3:00pm, I left for home with a much shorter to-do list and a satisfied smile on my face. It had been a good, productive day.

Since I was a little girl, I've generally liked work, especially when it involved cleaning or organizing. Some of my favorite memories are of Saturdays when it was "work-around-the-home-together-as-a-family" day. Sure, I prefer some tasks over others. However, I can state that in the last two years, I've become even more thankful when I have the stamina and clarity of mind to work.

Today, I heard a co-worker complain about something she had to do. This person didn't grumble for long and I could empathize with her frustrations. However, spending significant time in the hospital has made me aware of the blessings of accomplishing jobs. Each day that I can help someone else or tackle my to-do lists, whether at home or my place of employment, is a gift from the Lord.

"Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation." Philippians 2:14-15a

Happy Monday

Maybe I'll have some time to write more later, but I wanted you to know that it has been a wonderful weekend. Qavah and I have enjoyed good health and lots of family time. Today, we hope to scratch off some more jobs on our to-do lists. I'm so thankful the Lord has given me the strength this weekend to help Mom around the house.It feels so "normal" and right. Last night, we had our small group here and that was another evening filled with many blessings and joyful memories. There are many things to be thankful for on this Memorial Day!

Amazing Week!

The house is quiet and it's time for me to sleep. However, I wanted to first write a short update before heading to bed. This morning, Mom sent me a quick e-mail while I was at work (which I received on my lunch break). The last line of her message said:

"P.S. You made it through a week of work!!!!!! God is good!!!!"

That pretty much sums up my news for this post. *grin* Since Monday is Memorial Day, I have a four-day weekend. Dad also has Monday off of work. Lord willing, we plan to complete some house projects that have been on our to-do lists for awhile.

Below is a picture I took one morning this week at around seven o'clock just before leaving for work. I love the shadows. The sky was perfectly clear, but sunny and it was very quiet and peaceful. There wasn't even a bird singing. Time seemed to stand still. I think the porch swings make this "scene" look very welcoming. Don't you want to just step into this photo and soak up God's amazing handiwork?

"Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.I say to myself, "The LORD is my portion; therefore I will wait for him." Lamentations 3:22-24

As God Wills It

Last week when Qavah received a VHS tape of children singing Christian music, I sat down and watched the video with her. Many of the songs I remembered from my childhood Sunday school classes. One of the songs I loved was called He's Got The Whole World In His Hands. I liked doing the hand motions, which visually symbolized God's sovereignty. I also remember distinctly singing that song with such concern in my heart for the many orphans around the world. It helped me to realize that God was taking care of the orpahns, even if I couldn't bring them "back home" to live with my family in America.

Now, I'm an adult with other serious issues in my life (my disease, job, finances, present and future relationships, church, etc). I also have many family and friends who have their own prayer requests. In fact, we all have a list of needs and desires. The simple message of He's Got The Whole World In His Hands is as true today as it was when I was seven years old; God IS sovereign! Today, whether you are caring a heavy burden or jumping for joy, remember that nothing happens without God's notice. He indeed has the whole world in His hands. I don't know about you, but that realization frees me to live my life with enuthsiasm and anticipation for what the Lord is going to do.

"[God] does as He pleases with the powers of heaven and the peoples of the earth. No one can hold back His hand or say to Him: "What have you done?" Daniel 4:35.

Monday's Medical Musing

Thank you for the recent comments, emails, and especially prayers. The last two weeks have been pretty difficult, but the Lord gave my family strength to hang on during the dark days. He also provided us with wonderful friends.

I started feeling better this past weekend with today being the best day I've had in awhile. I actually made my bed and cleaned my room on Saturday, which was the first time in over a week. If you know anything about me, then you know that a messy bedroom for eight days means something is seriously wrong. Normally, I function best when there is "order" or at least organization, within my immediate environment.

Anyways, I did return to work at BRILC today. Thankfully, the Lord gave me strength to work an additional two hours so I could make up some of the time I lost last week. This evening, I babysat Qavah while Mom and Dad attended small group. Qavah and I enjoyed watching Berenstain Bears together. The stories of Mama, Papa, Brother and Sister Bears were some of my favorite children's books growing up, so it was fun to relive the adventures. Actually, I still kept my Berenstein Bears' books, so once Qavah learns to read, she'll see that I have some of the same stories in print that she enjoys watching on DVD. They are classic stories with meaningful life-long lessons.

Tonight as I snuggle under my warm blankets (It's supposed to be thirty-nine degrees overnight), I'm thankful for a stomach that could digest delicious food, a comfortable home, a pretty bedroom, a family that loves me, friends that pray for me, a job where I can help others, and a Lord that not only redeemed me, but Who is preparing an eternal home where I'll praise Him forever.

Bumping Along

So often the HPS community refers to their life as a journey. Well, my family encountered some health-related speed bumps this week that felt more like pot holes. After four weeks, Mom and Dad are still getting over the cough of the nasty flu/cold/bronchitis they had. By Tuesday night, Qavah seemed to be feeling better. In fact, she was supposed to get a transfusion this week, but her counts were high enough that it was postponed until next Wednesday. However, Qavah did wake up this morning with another runny nose and cough.

On Monday, I had some "rainbow" sherbet. What I didn't realize was that it contained orange juice concentrate. Combined with the caffeine tea I drank earlier in the day, my body was a mess by Monday night. I had huge, nasty bruises, petechiae, and an itchy rash all over my body! A shower eased some of the misery, but it did not stop the bleeding. So I had to take one squirt of Stimate (DDAVP). While Stimate does stop the bleeding, its side effects are not pleasant, which include (I'm listing it here for those who may need to know): Agitation, chest pain, chills, dizziness, fluid retention and swelling, indigestion, insomnia, itchy or light-sensitive eyes, pounding heartbeat, rapid heartbeat, sleepiness, and vomiting. I've mostly dealt with chest pain, headaches, sleepiness, fluid retention, and dizziness.

I did not go to work yesterday, but I did work half a day today. By tonight, the Stimate has mostly worn off, so I am feeling better. The rash has healed and the bruises are slowly disappearing. I do still have a nagging headache, but that my be due to seasonal allergies.

This week's sicknesses make me very thankful for the healthy days my family has had the last several months. I'm also grateful for the each day spent away from the hospital, where my family can enjoy the peace and beauty of our earthly home, while looking forward to our perfect, Heavenly home. "[God] will wipe every tear from our eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away." (Revelation 21:4)

Five (Paragraphs) For Friday

All is well here health wise. Today was a busy and long day, so I am going to bed now. However, I thought that some people might check to make sure we were fine. Qavah is doing better, although the reason behind this week's troubles is still a mystery. The Clariton-D is helping, though.

I had a harp lesson for the first time in over a month. I think my last lesson was four or five weeks ago. I had to suspend lessons while my rib healed and I got back on my feet. The Lord really did heal my body quickly! I was back to work within two weeks of the "fracture". Someone asked me if the rib still hurt. For the most part, it really doesn't hurt anymore; just every once in awhile if I move my body into a weird position. I do, however, still have trouble picking up an object that has fallen onto the floor. I'm thankful for a sister who is always willing to help me out.

My grandparents came for a visit today, so grandmom could have her harp lesson, too. It had been awhile since we visited together, so it was pleasant to catch up again. They stayed for dinner and a little bit of music before returning home. In my lesson, I learned how to play one song backwards (The Chimes) and learned a few more measures of Jesus Loves Me.

I saw a movie last night that I highly recommend. It is titled Faith Like Potatoes. Colin saw the movie recently and told us about it. I'm so glad he did, too. Maybe I'll write more about the plot soon. Faith Like Potatoes is along the same lines as the thought-provoking Bella movie I blogged about a few months ago.

Now, it is technically May 2, so I really do have to turn off the light, so I can sleep. Mom and I are going to a mother-daughter brunch at a local church. Paul Burton and Colin are going hiking together. And I imagine Qavah will busy herself with playing near where-ever Dad is working. I think he wants to clean and organize the garage, which means that Qavah might find some new "toys" to enjoy. I look forward to tomorrow evening when we can all return home and share our different Saturday adventures with each other.

Wednesday's Wisteria

Yesterday was such a warm and sunny day that I took a short stroll in the yard. Just as if on cue, our wisteria tree bloomed. It was breathtakingly beautiful! I had to capture the purple loveliness of God's handiwork with my camera:

We have several plants in yard called "sweet bushes," because of their smell. The fragrance is so pleasant to smell:

Our grass is so green from the recent rains. I love the shadows displayed in this next picture:

Etiquette 101

Over the weekend, our family visited with our friends, David and Lizi , for a unique purpose. As a child, David's mother taught him how to be a gentleman using the book, Emily Post's Etiquette. Lizi grew up in England, where she also learned etiquette. We noticed their impeccable manners a few weeks ago when David and Lizi joined us for Passover dinner.

Since the fine art of proper etiquette is no longer regularly taught or found in today's American culture, we asked David and Lizi to teach us appropriate "table manners". They graciously answered our request with an invitation to dine at their home this past Saturday. Every detail of the evening was carefully and wonderfully planned!

The table was beautifully was set with a lovely flower arrangement:

Each place setting was also tastefully decorated and logical. Each utensil had a purpose. Most of the dinnerware and flatware used to belong to David's mother:

We learned general manners, such as how to use our flatware, how to pass the food, and to whom we should first speak. Our meal was very delicious and consisted of five courses: soup, main course, sherbet (to cleanse the palate), salad, and dessert. At the very end of the meal, we each got a finger bowl to wash our hands:

After dinner, we enjoyed some live, classical music and conversations centered on the Lord:

The evening closed much like it began with thankful hearts and prayers to God for His provision and goodness. Proper etiquette is not as difficult to learn as I imagined. As David said, "It's about common sense and putting others ahead of yourself".

"Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others." -Philippians 2:1-4

Fabulous Friday

Today's Remicade treatment very went well. The nurse had my bag of medicine ready very shortly after I arrived, so I did not have to wait for the pharmacists to deliver it. That meant, I did not have a large and unnecessary dose of saline pumping into my body. Usually by the time the Remicade infusion is finished, I have a pounding headache. That was not the case this time. I'm very grateful to the Lord for every attentive nurse and medical appointment that occurs without a glitch.

I have enjoyed the past few days, too. Helen's visit was definitely the highlight of this week. Even though I was not able to spend a lot of time with her due to my work schedule, we did make some memories with the few hours we had together. Helen brought some gift cards to our home that, upon being used, benefited her grandchild's school. That was all of the incentive to go shopping that we needed! So, Tuesday night Mom, Helen, and I had a successful shopping trip to Payless Shoes. Then we came home and watched a Beth Moore video. Wednesday night, Mom and I took Helen with us to Bible study. Then, we came home and had a "girls' bedtime tea party" with a candle, coffee, and leftover Birthday cake (thank you for sharing, Paul Burton!). That night, we went to bed both spiritually and physically fed.

Another blessing of this week was observing the outside beauty of God's creation . Until now, the flowers have been timid to bloom because of the cold temperatures. The songbirds, too, have waited to burst into their melodious tunes. This week, all of that changed. The varying colors displayed on the tree foliage and flower petals remind me of an artisans paint tray. And the birds are so cheerful! They are beckoning God's creation to praise Him, which is what I find myself doing a lot these days. Below is snapshot I took this afternoon:

Snapshots of the Weekend

I had a wonderful time visiting with Sandy! Her positive, but realistic perspective on living with a chronic illness was both refreshing and inspiring. This was Sandy's first visit to Virginia, so we showed her the beauty of Roanoke by walking in the wildflower garden at Mill Mountain and driving on the Blue Ridge Parkway. The Lord gave us a beautiful day to visit together with warm and sunny weather:

Below is Sandy with her mom, Nancy:

Roanoke is known as the Star City:

Sandy remarked at how odd it was that we call the trees pictured below "Red Buds," because they are more purple and pink in color. I quite agree. Despite their name, though, these trees are a welcome sight to Virginians who know that once a Red Bud is spotted, Spring is just around the corner:

This next picture reminds me of the part in Anne of Green Gables where Anne and her friend Diana explore the woods only to have Anne fall into a hole and twist her ankle:

Wednesday's Wrap-Up

Hello! Recently, the days have been jam packed and thus my blog posting has slowed down. I've had other priorities. However, I do think of at least one topic to write about everyday, even if I don't actually post my thoughts. This week in particular, we've had something going on every evening. In fact, I just got home from Bible study. Tonight, I was reminded (again!) of how much the Lord orchestrates our lives. I also learned about reversal of destiny, chiastic structure, and peripety. (Those are fun words to say aloud!)

Lord willing, I have an exciting event taking place on Saturday. I have a very special friend from Michigan coming to visit. We've had this event on the calendar for sometime now, but I was waiting until my friend wrote about it on her blog before I announced the plans here. Sandy will be attending a conference in Washington, D.C. next week, but first she is making a detour to our area of Virginia.

While Sandy does not have HPS, she does have another rare blood disorder and an endocrine disorder, so she knows first-hand what it's like to live with a chronic illness. She does not let the diseases stop her, though. With her strength and hope anchored in the Lord, Sandy lives life with perserverance, spunk, and joy! One of my favorite things about Sandy is her ability to write. She is a faithful blog poster, so I encourage you to visit her website. Please pray that she (and her mom) make it to our home safely and that our time together will be full of wonderful memory-making. I promise to take pictures!

Spring-ing Into Action

Okay, so maybe I can't exactly have a "spring in my step" yet, but I am staying very busy nonetheless! For these first few days of April, no news is good news. My rib is healing nicely, although it's still sore. I'm thankful to be up, around, and breathing, though.

We've had "company" this week at home. In addition to family events, I've been trying to catch up at work. There are several projects going on right now in addition to my regular responsibilities. Well, my lunch break is over, so I'll have to post more at another time. Thank you for checking the website and praying.