October 2010.....three years later

I'll never forget October 2007....the official diagnosis of my scleroderma, the last choir concert I would ever direct at CHS, the last day of teaching in the classroom.

Three years ago I was in Blairsville, Georgia at a health ministry retreat called "Times of Refreshing".  Even though the three week retreat was very beneficial to me in many ways....my scleroderma was advancing at a very fast rate....and to make a long story short...upon my return to Michigan I went under the watchful care of some really good scleroderma specialists...and a treatment program was started.


Three years later....October 2010...I am literally beating the odds.
Now we all know....that it's not the odds that I'm beating....but rather God's perfect plan unfolding.  HE is the one who has shaped my life, my path, and my skin.  HE is the one who hears the prayers and petitions of His children....HE is the one who gives me hope, courage, and who allows me to live. 

Everything I have experienced the last three years has shaped who I am today.  When I knew I was unable to return to my career as a music educator...something I had done for over 30 years...I thought I would crumble up and die:(   Now I look at this health challenge as an added blessing in my life.  My journey with scleroderma has opened up doors of ministry, advocacy, sharing my story with others, and most of all recognizing on a deeper level God's mercy and grace in my life.

October 2010 has brought sunshine and joy....
Dad is doing very well and adjusting to his new home at Green Acres.
He has made some good friends....and enjoys visits from family and friends.
He is going to church with us every Sunday, and had even invited one of his buddies, Roy, to come along too!  What a delight:)

Linda and I talk almost every day and have enjoyed special times with Dad. Andrea and Elliott have also come to Cadillac....we always enjoy their visits.

Dad sold his car this month, and on November 4th their household items will be auctioned off combined with two other estates in Onekama by Ringel Real Estate and Auction.  It was bittersweet as Ken and I, Linda and Don sorted through the belongings of our parents. There were some things that Dad wanted kept in the family.....but there are also LOTS of items that will be in the sale.  http://www.manistee.net/bldg%20auction%2011-4-10.htm

The house is also listed for sale......we continue to pray for the right buyer.

Ken is in  the middle of a bathroom remodel for Joel's bathroom.  I am grateful for a handyman husband who can plumb, wire, build, and figure out ANYTHING:)  He hopes to be done with it soon...then on to other projects.

We are going to see Kurt, Heidi and family on October 30th to celebrate Jonny's 4th birthday....also planning on taking a two day trip to Kenosha the first weekend in November.  We are also looking forward to the entire family getting together for Dad's 87th birthday this next month.  All of our kids and grand kids, as well as Linda and Don's family  will be able to celebrate with us.....Dad is pretty excited:)

Linda, Andrea, and Elliott visited Grandpa

Family:)

Picture from Green Acres Octoberfest

Don and Linda's grandson Elliott Hoagland

Mom has been in heaven for 4 months now.....we miss her so much...and I still can't get past the moments that I think I can just call her on the phone and chat...I'm sure that will be with me for a long time.  Just imagine the precious reunion when we are together for eternity!!