Long Overdue Update

So, I want to apologize for the length of time between updates.  We've been busy.  Busy working on Teresa's treatment, busy helping out our kids, busy travelling.  So forgive my tardiness, and forgive anything I overlook.

First and foremost, we've been through three more bouts of chemotherapy.  Those have all gone pretty well.  Nothing essential has changed, Teresa's still fighting, still tired.  The tumor is still there, but it has not grown, nor has it shrunk.  The Dr. is quite happy with this, as it bodes well for Teresa's longevity.  

The Dr. dropped one of the chemotherapy drugs at the last session.  This particular drug was causing Teresa a lot of neurological pain problems, and it was important to Teresa's quality of life to stop the drug.  It was absolutely necessary for the first few bouts of chemotherapy, but it is no longer necessary.  Teresa has noted a marked decrease in pain since she stopped taking this drug.

We have traveled a bit, including spending a week with some of my family in NM.  This was very uplifting to both of us.  I'm hoping to post a few photo's later.

Teresa is approaching her Birthday, as well as we are approaching our 34th Wedding anniversary.  We plan on a few days away in early October to celebrate.  

One of the most memorable things about this crazy time was a plot by family and friends to secretly put together an encouragement book for Teresa.  Just seeing it reduced her to tears, and it took her a few days to absorb it all.  I'm going to put her own words here:

Dear Family and Friends,
I received the beautiful and thoughtful album you all contributed to, for which you sent your well wishes, prayers, memories, and love. What a wonderful surprise!
I cannot express the overwhelming amount of emotion that overcame me, when I started reading all of your personalized messages, Bible passages, prayers, and more. I can say that it took me a few days to actually start reading the notes more closely, because it was difficult to hold back my tears of joy, and good memories.
I know you are all very special to me, and though you don't necessarily know my family members, my husband Jon was very touched by this gift.
I have to admit, I never expected such an outpouring of love in a lovely package!
I sincerely thank each of you for being part of this gift.
Love and best wishes to you all.

We are both at a place now where we are just living in the moment, ready to accept God's will for us each day.  Most importantly, we continue to enjoy the rich mercies of the Great Physician, and seek healing for our souls.  This life is just a shade of the world to come, where all sickness, sorrow, and sighing have fled away.