I cannot believe how long it has been since we have posted anything. Our days are filled with love and caring for one another. That is not to say that life is idyllic. Our wonderful children, try as they may, still have melt downs and little dust ups over toys and who is right about a certain subject. We are striving to make our home a contention free zone where there Spirit of the Lord resides more of the time so that we can feel His peace. We are certainly not perfect at it but it is a worthy pursuit that is very appropriate during this time in our lives. Actually, it is a worthy goal for all times of life its just that the value of it now seems greater than gold and does not fluctuate like the stock market.
Amber has been having more and more difficulty getting out of the house. Her level of energy is really low and she only controls her pain well when she is in bed or in her recliner. On August 22nd she had a great desire to go to the temple. For those who do not know, the temple is a place where we go to worship, learn, make covenants with the Lord, and feel close to heaven. When you go you are usually there a couple of hours. Based on the week she had I was unsure if she would be able to go. She insisted on going no matter what and we went and were strengthened spiritually.
On Sunday the 23rd they dedicated a new Temple and had a sweet service that she really wanted to attend. Again I doubted whether she could make it based on pain and fatigue. Yet again she taught me a sermon on faith, dedication, and courage by going against all odds. We were able to attend with our children Blake, Bekah, and Abby. Caleb and Ammon could not go because you had to be at least 8 years old. We all felt the spirit of the Lord very strong and appreciated the opportunity to consider heavenly things together as a family. How grateful we are that we have been able to learn together as a family God’s plan for our happiness and eternal progress. It brings great peace to us all to know where we came from, why we are here, and where we are going when this life ends. I know that the things we have learned are true and the promises of God are sure. He knows where we are going and the path we must follow and why. We can trust Him!
When Amber went on hospice at the beginning of May she wanted more than anything to be able to do things with our children while they were out of school. We wondered because her oncologist thought she only had 3 months to live, if she would be able to accomplish this. Many prayers have been offered by us and our children to allow Amber to participate in all of our family activities this summer. The children started school August 31st. Because of the grace, mercy, and love of the Lord Amber has made it. We are so grateful to the Lord for granting us this great blessing. The summer was truly wonderful and lifelong memories were made. When we plead with the Lord to remove our burdens from us he always has the power to do so but some times it is not His will. He is always mindful of us and our suffering and always stands ready to strengthen us, help us, and ease our burdens. He always stands ready to heal our broken hearts. All that is required is that we answer his constant call, “Come unto Me”. I am grateful for His tender mercy of allowing Amber this season to be with her children. Things like this help me to know that He knows our thoughts and He knows our hearts. The Savior of us all does not leave us comfortless or alone.
Now we just have Ammon home all day with grandma. He misses the kids a little but is enjoying the individual attention and not having to compete for toys with Caleb. Amber has still been sleeping a lot. A week ago our wonderful hospice nurse Carol helped Amber with the decision to get a pain pump. This allows her to have a constant stream of pain medication even if she is asleep. She can hit a button for an extra amount if she needs it. This allows her to stay on top of her pain management and be more comfortable. We are grateful for the tender care given by Carol and also the social worker Sean who helps us all a great deal.
I have decided as of this week to only work 5 hours per day so that I can spend more time with Amber and be more involved in her care. This also allows me to be around my children more so they feel secure and have more access to a parent. I feel good about my decision and enjoyed being home more yesterday. I appreciate my co-worker’s willingness to pitch in on my workload and members of the management team in the office for allowing me this time.
Thank you for all of your prayers, love and support.