From Tribulation to Hope

It
has been a long 4.5 weeks.  I don't really know if my back is getting
better or worse.  I try to increase my activity every day, but that
tends to set me back the day after.  So I'm just continuing to take
everything reeeeeeally slowly.  Hopefully, soon, I will begin to see some progress. 

Today
I was blessed by a visit from my oldest younger brother.  He came for
his birthday present (yesterday) and to bring Isaac's present (birthday
#9 tomorrow!).  We had a really nice visit, which we don't get a chance
to do very often.  Then Doug came home and after a bit, we were blessed
to have my youngest younger brother drop in for a bit too.  It was so
nice!

My
hubby was able to go out to a work function this evening.  Here he is,
looking all handsome and vice-principal-esque. (minus those 50
pounds!!!)

And
if you look at the jewelry form to his right, you'll see that necklace
I've been working on.  After I took the picture, I thought "Wow!  It
looks so pretty sitting right there!" 

Isaac's
birthdays usually hit me pretty hard.  It is a common theme among
parents of special needs children.  I was really concerned about this
year. I have been under the weather, so to speak, for so long
physically, that I was fearful that Isaac's birthday tomorrow would be
especially hard. 

But God is so faithful.  He sent a precious
birthday card for Isaac from a friend yesterday.  It was so sweet it
made me cry.  (Thank you, friend!)  Then the unexpected company today
was an added blessing.  I will still have to be home alone tomorrow
while Doug takes Isaac to therapy, which makes me sad.  But I don't
dare do that long trip – traveling is awful on my back.

I know
that God has not given us a spirit of fear, so if we are experiencing
anxiety and fear, they are coming from another source.  I am going to
choose power and love and a sound mind for the day tomorrow; and I know
it is going to turn out just fine.

Blessings to you,
Alesha