July 13

Sam woke up today feeling better. He has been walking around, asking to do things, had a little food which has stayed in his stomach (so far, that is), and is a bit less whitish in color than usual. He obviously was fighting an infection, but with little immunity was losing the battle. The antibiotics have helped and we are very thankful.

It's been a terribly emotional week for me. Having our family together was wonderful and I think I was feeling relieved and able to let my guard down. I have been very tearful and tired. Seeing Sam so sick again was really hard on us all. It brings it to the forefront of our minds once again that things can change very quickly for Sam. It's very scary.

The weather has been awesome and I enjoy sitting outside in the mornings on the deck having devotions. God once again dazzles me with timely scriptures and insights.

"You hem me in-behind and before; you have laid your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain (Psalm 139:5-6).

The well known Isiah 40:29-31 was meaningful for me today as I pondered how leukemia has affected each person in our family. We had time to share what was going on with us this week, how we are coping, what is making us weary, and sharing our struggles with our situation. It was helpful to share, cry, pray and support one another. We look forward to the day when Sam will walk and run and not grow tired and weary, when his strength will be renewed, and our hope in the Lord will always be powerful.

Debbie