It's been a couple of weeks!

I have been reminded by several friends that I have not been updating the blog as much lately, and that is very true. My last post was two weeks ago, though it certainly does not seem like that long. I have been extremely busy holding down the home fort and working, not to mention having the kids out on their summer break and needing to "entertain them." Time has been flying by through this cool, wet and green Colorado summer. Rare has been the day that an afternoon could be enjoyed at the pool. Window viewing of lightening shows has been our more common routine.

Our big news is that H was received into the Catholic church on Friday last week in a beautiful ceremony here at our house. Father John from St. Mark here in Highlands Ranch and his whole team have been so great to Heidi and our family. Accommodating a Mass here at our house for H to proclaim her faith was just amazing and a rare opportunity indeed. It is something she has wanted to pursue for a very long time and I am very proud of her for following through with this spiritual dream of hers. They even brought over a choir of 6 with guitars and a flute to add to the celebration. Some cake and Champagne followed and it was just a very special evening with family and a few friends. Even in her physical weakness, she was strong and continues to set such an amazing example for our girls as she battles for her life every day.

I know many of you are worried about her condition, so here is a brief update. She is very weak, but mostly in good spirits. We don't count things that she can't do anymore and the things that she can do are our blessings...talking to us, smiling, expressing her love and thanks, still being able to chew and swallow...how fortunate we are compared to many with this dreadful sickness. Some times are harder than others, but she seems to come through the down cycles and can smile and laugh about many things.

The girls remain happy and are enjoying their summer. They are aware of what is going on and seem to be able to compartmentalize it to moments of sadness that can be recovered from quickly. I am continually amazed at their resilience. Just three weeks left and then it's back to school...3rd, 5th and 6th graders! Unbelievable!

The Hospice people have been engaged, but not overly so, which is what we want. H's nurse is very sweet and has been helpful with medications and other supplies. She is a good listener and has addressed several of H's concerns in a very compassionate way. We have also seen a social worker and a pastor, but have not felt a lot of need for them to spend time with us as of yet, and definitely would want them to be with people that need them more right now than us. They have medications and equipment delivered to the house, which has been a welcome respite for me, not having to stand in line at the Safeway Pharmacy forever waiting for someone's problem to be fixed. Sometimes it's like watching the Keystone Cops over there, but I'm sure it's very complicated...

Peace, out for now.
B.