Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Slap up side the head Thanksgiving

Day 137 of our 1,278 day war on leukemia.

Thanksgiving is a special time of year for reflection. Some years it's a gentle reminder that there are others less fortunate. And other years it's a big slap up side the head, serving notice that we are always supposed to be thankful...even when things are their worst.

This year we got the big slap up side the head and kick in the groin version.

Nevertheless, we are so incredibly thankful. Even though things seem to be at their worst, we know we are blessed beyond compare. We are thankful in so many ways. Let's see...
  • The doctors and nurses that care for Carson have been absolutely wonderful. Rush Limbaugh claims "talent on loan from God." He's got nothin' compared to these guys, and they're helping us!
  • We have had various family members staying with us basically since Carson was diagnosed, taking on the role of surrogate parent...cleaning the house, picking up kid number 1, etc. Live-in help is totally awesome! Truth is, we would be in a serious world of hurt without them. Thanks moms!
  • I can't say enough about our friends and neighbors. Meals. Lawn help (Lord knows I'm no green thumb!). Meals. Chauffeuring services. Meals. Tons of cool gifts. We have been totally humbled by the outpouring of support...to the point of tears of joy. You guys sustain us from day to day. Did I mention meals? Okay, just making sure. I'm a pig.
  • Francesca. She has sacrificed more than any parent should ask of a child, yet she continues to help...and does so with a loving heart. Francesca, you are the greatest sister ever!!
But most of all we are thankful for the prayers. Not only from our own church family, but from from many others as well. We can't thank you enough. It's you guys who call in the big guns to lift us when we can't walk ourselves...which is fairly frequent right now.

Thanksgiving is certainly special this year, and this year we are incredibly grateful. My only hope...my prayer...is that through our story, your Thanksgiving is more special, too.

Paul.

1 comment:

  1. We just love your positive attitude! Yes, I actually thought about you guys Thanksgiving morning when we discovered the basement had flooded overnight - with 11 expected for dinner! With your example in front of us, we were able to laugh and make the best of it - and Thanksgiving was very special. Because we are incredibly blessed, and a flooded basement sure doesn't seem like a big deal now.
    I assume Carson will start another round on Monday? Our prayers are with you all.
    Love, Betsy P.

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