At the end of the day

It was good for me to be afflicted so that I might learn your decrees.

My soul faints with longing for your salvation,

but I have put my hope in your word.

(Psalm 119:71 & 81)

Let me first say that, because of the many who are serving our family out of love during this time, I have the energy and emotional fortitude to write tonight. Thanks, Pam, for sitting with Caleb so I could shower and see my girls. Thank you, Mom and Dad Thul, for canceling all your other plans and staying with the healthy kids at home. Thank you, Kanzes, Bergs, and Greenes, for the Thomas videos, snacks, and toys. Without all of that...I wouldn't have had energy to do anything but flop into bed today! I was a little like a limp dishrag after 24 hours without food, few hours of interrupted sleep last night and no shower for days. I feel very refreshed this evening.

Caleb is doing about the same. All of his lab tests are slightly improved at the end of the day, probably because he is rehydrated again. He is still pretty lethargic and sleepy. He also hasn't had any diarrhea since 2 p.m., which is amazing! The doctor thinks that giving his stomach a rest by hydrating him using IV fluids is doing the trick to slow down the diarrhea. Unfortunately, if his case is like Aaron's, when liquids are re-introduced, he will still have trouble. Aaron tried some clear broth this afternoon and is in horrible pain this evening because of it. Another day in the hospital for him tomorrow. He was so weak today, his shower was too much for him. Caleb is feeling about the same - he won't even sit up in his wagon for rides in the hall anymore, preferring to lay flat and watch the ceiling go by.

I am constantly in prayer, for my friend, recently widowed, for my grandmother, recently widowed, for my family, wasting away without food or drink. I am clinging tooth and nail to the promises of God - praying it is those good promises that come true for our family. Psalm 1 - the man planted like a tree by living water; Jeremiah - God's good plans for us; Job - the double blessing poured out after the test of suffering was weathered. I am waiting desperately for the double portion. I am trying to be spongy and soak up all the life-altering lessons God is proffering through this season of sorrow. I am begging to know just a taste of Christ's willing obedience, not my will, but Thine be done, Father!