Fog and Sunshine

When we learned that she would need surgery, our first concern was how we'd share the news with Elizabeth.  She's been through so many surgeries and procedures and knows the reality of a painful recovery.  We both felt at peace about simply giving her the basic facts and not filling in too many of the harrowing details for her mind to dwell on, but were praying about the right timing.  Well, we've already seen our prayers being answered!  Early in the week, Elizabeth asked out of the blue if we'd gotten the results of the pulmonary stress test she had in January. 

That was the open door I needed to tell her that in fact we had! I shared that we might have an explanation for her low energy and stamina. I shared that her oxygenated blood isn't all getting to the correct side of her heart and by God's providence there is an expert at Columbia who can correct what needs to be fixed.  She was excited about the fact that both of her heart surgeons are Lebanese, but was not convinced that the surgery would give her more energy. In fact she argued that she might still want to be "couch restive", her word for just chilling on the couch instead of being up and active. HA! She keeps me on my toes, but that peaceful conversation and her calm response were pure grace.

This was one of many moments this week when God showed us that he is going to care for us and faithfully lay down the path before us one step at a time.  

"The Lord Himself goes before you and will be with you;  he will never leave you nor forsake you.  Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged." ~Deuteronomy 31:8

Though my heart feels at peace, my subconscious is clearly working on things because I'm foggy and exhausted! All I want to do is veg and binge watch Net-flix. Sigh. But that clearly wouldn't work for our school curriculum, so mid-week I did what would be good for my body and soul and joined our little crew for our Homeschool Running Club's 5K!

These mamas show up every week with their kids (babies and toddlers too!) to run with the girls and me at Riverbank State Park.  Over the past 6 months we've gotten stronger and even Elizabeth has worked her way up to jogging a mile! This is HUGE for her! On Wednesday we took advantage of a 70 degree day to walk/run a 5K along the Hudson. As we wait for surgery, we so appreciate diversions like this! 

We are so grateful for friends and sunshine and all your support and prayers. 

Goodnight Friends.