Today I went to Mom's house to even out the caregiver to patient ratio. Aunt Wilma says we are only allowed one patient per house, and Dad has been battling more tooth problems. He was actually ok today (cutting the lawn when I got there) but spent Saturday in bed. He has an infection in his mouth that needs to be cleared up by Friday, when he will have a wisdom tooth removed. Dad says if he continues losing teeth at this rate, he will be out of teeth by his birthday. He's had four out already and three cavities filled, and complications several times. So pray that he will soon feel better.

Mom hasn't been well this week. She is very tired and lacking energy. Her stomach is uncomfortably full again. She is going to try to wait for Thursday for another paracentesis (draining of fluid) but is prepared to go to London if she needs it earlier. These aren't easy days for Mom. She feels nauseous a lot and it is a struggle to keep her gut working. Pray for strength and encouragement for Mom.

Mom wishes she could write something, but wants to say, "Thank you" to everyone for all their prayers and support. It means so much. Today we opened an exciting package in the mail - the photo book we made. In it we put photos from Mom's birthday parties and the blessings we've had over the last several months. It is amazing to look back and see the many answers to prayer - a great birthday, being together with ALL our family, family photos, and much time together. We are very grateful.

It is a great thing to remember and know what God has done for us. But looking ahead to the future isn't as easy. It's hard to imagine what will happen in the days to come, or how we will get through it. Mom can so quickly feel much worse, as the bowel obstruction acts up. I struggle to tame my anxiety at times. But our God who has been with us in the past will also be with us in the days to come. Thank you for your prayers.