Day One Hundred Thirty-six

"The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold." Psalm 18:2

Ryan was full of energy today!  We made it to the early service just a little late, which is usual for us.  We stayed for both services today and went on stage to talk about our journey with pastor.  I think the talk aligned well with pastor's series on God, suffering, and the viewpoint of people going through challenges and God's amazing work amidst them.  Many times people question why there is suffereing from a distance, and they never experience God's work underway within the particular situation they are questioning.   The series has helped address questions that are constantly asked about suffering around the world, and the messages have been beneficial to us.  The pastor and the congregation have been a blessing to us, and we are thankful.

You know that you have written something that makes sense when someone else reads it to others. :)  Pastor read the following excerpt of Day 119 at the end of our discussion during church:

We have experienced two new worlds: One that doesn't make sense, which includes sick children and families suffering and another full of God's love with many people doing absolutely wonderful things for those children and families. What is amazing is when the latter surrounds the former and incredible things happen. It is obvious to me that God is working through those people and truly making great things happen. This has changed our lives, and I pray that as we continue and finish the journey with a healthy son, that God works through us to make a difference in others.

Emma did great at the nursery today!  First time!  After the second service, I went by and she just waved at me and kept on playing.  Ryan and Davianna didn't want to leave their Sunday School class either.  I think that's an obvious good sign.

The kids watched Toy Story this afternoon and then Ryan and I went to Lowes to get some light bulbs.  I love going there and Home Depot with him.  He asks 100 questions and seems so mature.  It's all guy talk, and he loves the tools and comes up with a lot of ideas of why we should buy them.  He thinks just like me. :)  I pointed out the things that he should talk to his mother about for Father's Day, but I know that end up with new underwear.

The children down the street came over and the kids played outside for a while. They have such a wonderful time together. A new family with children moved in a couple of houses down, so we'll have to go welcome them to neighborhood.

WE HAVE OKRA! 

Mirjan's garden is producing okra now, and that is a really good thing! I look forward to her wonderful creations...fried, stewed, okra ice cream??

Tonight the kids danced and sang for a while and then it was bath time. Emma was the first one out and before I knew it she was out of the bathroom and on the other side of the house...running and making a lot of noise. Ryan always runs out of the bathroom hollering, and I think she is taking after him. Ryan and I read one of his favorite books, "All Dogs," that his Nana bought him. Nana probably knows what his favorite page is....he goes to it first every time.

The kids went to bed quickly, and then I was able to watch the last quarter of the basketball game. It was a good day.

Father, thank you for a wonderful day and a son full of energy! Thank you for allowing us to share some of your blessings and love at church. I ask that you continue to strengthen Ryan's body and comfort his mind. Keep his spirits high as we start down the home stretch of the treatment process. Please continue to heal my little boy. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.