Good Perspectives

Rob went back to the eye doc today for a one-week recheck...  Although his left eye is still hemorrhaging, the doc feels the laser from last week is starting to form the scar tissue he was hoping for that will keep Rob's retina from completely detaching in his left eye.  This is a good thing!  He wants to see Rob again next Monday afternoon to continue checking on the progress.  :)

Rob also has the CT scheduled for next Monday morning of his pelvic-abdominal regions.  He continues having some pain in the front of his belly and in his back (same area), and we're hoping it isn't all related.  (One day at a time, one day at a time...)

Rob is doing well, although still bothered a bit by the things happening with his vision that aren't clearing up quite as fast as he'd hoped.  He isn't wanting to think much about the blood results and upcoming CT scan.  He's been a bit more preoccupied with the thought of losing his vision.  He remains upbeat and full of his usual puns, which helps us both feel better.  He still sleeps quite a bit, but that's okay... he must need it as it seems to keep him balanced.
 
It started snowing late this afternoon while we were at the doctor's office.  We were on the sixth floor, and it was near sunset... so beautiful.  When we got back home, I took Darby outside, and it was still snowing.  It was so quiet, and sparkly... and even though a bit blustery and cold, I couldn't help feeling blessed to be in that picture.

The other morning driving in to work, the sky was a very dark, almost navy blue... storm clouds brewing.  But in those early morning hours the sun was up and shining hard on the Autumn leaves that were still attached to the trees:  vibrant oranges, crisp yellows, fiery reds.  SO beautiful!  Again, I was thanking God for putting that in front of me to remind me that even in the midst of turbulence, there are peaceful waters.  I was happy to be there at that time.

I've been spending free afternoons watching Christmas movies in my quilt room when I'm home... something I do every year starting in Autumn and going through Christmas.  I have over 300 movies, and yes, I like to watch them every year.  I like where they put me emotionally.

On Sunday afternoon I was watching a movie about a young carpenter who came into a town, helping everyone and blessing so many lives.  And I thought to myself, "How awesome would it be to have Jesus right there to talk to?" And no sooner did the thought cross my mind, that I heard in my heart, "I am always with you, always here to talk to you" as tears instantly streamed down my face.  This whole thought/experience took a matter of seconds, but it was so real and such a comfort to me.  I KNOW this, I just sometimes get so wrapped up in the ugliness of circumstances, that I don't keep my priorities straight... I don't LISTEN and I don't SEE.  I need to work harder on that, so I can live and breath in that Peace.   

I would really appreciate your continuing prayers for Rob and all that he's facing today and in the coming days.  And I'd like you to also pray for your own families, your neighbors, your friends, your co-workers...  For the woman running the register and the man picking up the trash.  For the factory workers and school teachers.  For everyone you see throughout your day.  I don't know if you really understand how powerful your prayers are...  But they have kept this loving, gentle-giant of mine in a good place regardless of what he's had to go through and what is yet to come.  And if that isn't enough evidence for you that prayer works, I don't know what is.

Last week I pulled out of the parking lot at work, crossing four lanes in rush hour to get to where I needed to be to get home, and just missed being taken out by a semi.  I know, stupid move.  I was tired, and on overload, and I just wanted to wash off work and go home.  Amazing Grace.  Wrapped in prayer.  God keeps letting me know he's near.  He keeps showing me every day in all I see and do and hear.  

Am I paying enough attention?

We all struggle at times with things going on in this imperfect world.  I am thankful though, that when I finally stop all the craziness that's swirling around in my brain, He is standing there with open arms to lift me up and rock me gently, filling me with His love and peace and strength... so I can do another day.

And for each new day I'm given, I am okay with all that is and all that is to come.

~~~~~~~~~

Oh my... it's after 2:30am and I am rambled out.  

Goodnight dear ones.  The sweetest of dreams and the best of days to you all.


In Love and In Peace,

Cheri ♥