Nov 19, 2010

BACK IN MICHIGAN

We are back in the Grand Rapids area.  We are spending the week plugged in and hooked up at the home of our friends and business partners Stan and Kathleen.  They have just finished building a beautiful home in the country and have a pad with 50 amp power and water next to their house.  We are so thankful for their hospitality and use of their home.

This is unfortunately not a fun trip.  Our friends Chris and Teresa are going through one of life's darkest moments.  Teresa is dying.  We have known Chris and Teresa for over 10 years.  We were there when their daughter was born and have traveled together several times over the years.

Teresa, who is only in her late 40's, was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer two years ago.  We thought she had it licked, but it came back last spring and there is nothing more the doctors can do.  Chris who just turned fifty one has been taking care of her and also trying to be Dad to their daughter who is now nine years old.  As you might imagine this is a very difficult time. Hospice is involved to help with the medical issues, but it's still not easy talking about upcoming funeral plans and related matters.

One of the bright spots this week is that we were able to spend time with our new grandson Harrison "the bear" Randall. What a good natured little guy.  He has brought some sunshine into this difficult time.  How can you not smile when you see this?


Not a good day on the scales.  In spite of watching what I ate, I am up two pounds. I'm going to have to be very careful during the Thanksgiving period.  It's easy for me to use food as a mood booster, so I'll have to watch it.

Until later.

8 comments:

Carol K said...

I will certainly keep Chris and Teresa in my prayers. What a joy your new grandson can be to you all during this difficult time. A new birth reminds us that as one life ends, another life is just beginning, and so goes the cycle.

Don't beat yourself up about the weight gain.

Linda said...

You are right, how can you not smile when seeing the photos of Harrison! So glad he is able to cheer both of you at this time. Our continued prayers for Chris and Teresa.

Barb said...

What a little cutie! Aren't grandkids great?

I'm sorry about Teresa - she's so young. This has to be very hard on her husband and daughter. It's nice that you are there for them.

Keep at it, and the extra pounds will come back off - maybe it's water weight.

Along the Way with JnK said...

So sorry to hear about Teresa...glad you are able to be there for them.

Just noticed your visited map, almost identical to ours...just the New England states left and Hawaii and Alaska too.

Melissa said...

Keeping you all in my prayers.

Wanderin' said...

So sorry you have to go through this. How lucky they are to have your friendship.

Ali Workentin said...

Keeping you all in our prayers. Glad you made it home to be near Chris and Teresa. And super excited you get to be near Harrison.

Wayne and Maureen said...

it is tough when friends and love ones move on and leave us to wonder about our own mortality...I am sure Teresa will be filled with wonder when she is reunited with her creator.