Monday, May 10, 2010

100 Degrees and Climbing

Really, it is. I keep thinking it can't get any hotter, and then it does. Please pray for energy and perseverance for our family. There is SO much going on in the next month and we are feeling quite drained in every way.

That's what made Friday's treat extra nice. An hour foot massage, free (wahoo!), with a bunch of friends. We sat in comfy chairs, sipping lemon tea, chatting about life. I almost forgot all the responsibilities waiting for me at home, it felt so good to just be me (without a child attached to any limbs) and to relax with adult conversation and friendship. Thanks friends for the wonderful night. I came home with new energy!

After my last post about hope, lots of people have been asking if Calvin is getting better. Not really. But that's not why I have hope now. It's not hope that he is going to be healed or hope that my life is going to be easy. Rather, it's a renewed sense of God's nearness and presence. His promises are real and comfort me. I lost sight of that for the first few months, but He does not let us go. Thank you, Lord! I feel hope that Darryl and I will one day feel lighthearted again. That we will laugh, love, and carry on. I feel hope that life will not always stay in this standstill and that together with Calvin, we will learn to live life to the fullest and with all of our heart.

There is so much on my mind and heart these days but no time to write it down. Soon. It really helps me to work through things by putting it on paper (actually I NEVER write on paper, but you get the point).

I also have been thinking about my wonderful mother. I am horrible at remembering to get flowers or send a thoughtful card. Thankfully my other dear sisters are not. My mom has been a faithful encourager her entire life. She gives and gives to her family in every way possible, and I'm thankful. Her selflessness and care for her kids is something I hope to have with my own children. She's always been a huge support for me and this whole ordeal with Calvin has been no exception. When I was alone in Bangkok she called me often and truly helped me bear the burden. She encouraged me, cried with me, reminded me of truth, offered to get on the next flight, sent me so many supportive emails, and it goes on. Thank you, mom. Even as an adult, there's still nobody like mom. I am so blessed to have my parents. Darryl's parents have been a tremendous blessing to us as well. They have always been a source of encouragement and support for us in so many ways. We are so looking forward to seeing our families!

I want to encourage you to visit the blog of Greg Lucas. I can't tell you how much this blog has resonated with me. What grace fills their lives! Please take the time to visit his blog, it will be time well spent.

6 comments:

Unknown said...

Kara, I DO pray for all of you every single night. I hope you "feel" our prayers -- I'm sure you do. I had planned to be more regular in my giving to your cause, and I am now reminded again that I must be faithful in that regard. Right now is the perfect time and I am going to make a donation online right after I get through here. Hope it helps a little iin your efforts to do the Lord's work. My thoughts and prayers are always with you. About your mom--I love her so much...and had an opportunity to be with her at a bridal shower a week or so ago at PRTS. In fact, I was right next to her for a long time, and we talked. Of all the people at the bookstore/seminary, though I do love them all, Lil is the person I miss the most. She and I were a "well oiled machine" when it came to doing the bookstore thing.....She is truly my dear friend.
Love to all!
Loi

lois v said...

Just finished catching up on the past few blogs. They always amaze me! The pics are helpful to keep us emotionally in touch with your situation. So glad that a ray of hope has returned to invade your soul darkness. Praying that you will have the strength needed to finish the year and come home to your family.

lois v said...

Just finished catching up on the past few blogs. They always amaze me! The pics are helpful to keep us emotionally in touch with your situation. So glad that a ray of hope has returned to invade your soul darkness. Praying that you will have the strength needed to finish the year and come home to your family.

Christy said...

I'm so happy that you have a wonderful mom to walk with you. They really are priceless.

And I totally wish I could have gotten a picture of that hair piece. I had my camera and everything. If only I wasn't so afraid of "what people would think" or "being chased out of a hospital."

Kara said...

Christy, I'm still laughing at your comment. :)

Pam Kwekel said...

Oh Kara, you dont know how often we think of you. To be honest I don't pray for you as I ought. At least once a week I go to your blog to see how you are doing. You write very well and open up your heart to us. I realize things and feelings change daily so it is hard to keep us updated. God is in control and knows everything that is going on today but also tomorrow and forever. I have many fond memories of you except when you lied to me at camp about where everyone was LOL. I agree I wish I also was like your mother. She is so helpful even when she doesn't feel well. God be with you and keep looking to him and he will carry you through.