Back at Lake

Chuck here: We arrived safely at our lake house in Indiana last evening with many fond memories from our visit in Michigan. The chemo pills continue to plague Carol, but we pray that they are being even harder on the cancer cells. We returned as the sun was starting to set across the lake, Carol called my attention to our father swan swimming a ways out from the pier in the golden sunset. It looked like something you would see in a picture. We can see mother swan sitting on her nest a ways off, so anticipate seeing the family additions on our next trip here.

It was special to be with so many friends and family members gathering for the bridal shower for Laura and Justin. Yes, this was a shower for both, so we guys were also included. Sue, Laura’s mom and friends put on a beautiful (and delicious) shower and we were all moved by the tender presentations by Laura and Justin about their meeting, courtship and eventual engagement. It was a special time for all of us…June 21 is THE day!

During our travels, we enjoy getting updates from all of you so we can be more specific in our prayers. We were pleased to hear that our Michigan friend who had emergency heart surgery in Asheville was being released from a second round at the hospital after dealing with an irregular heart beat and infection in his leg from the surgery. They now anxiously await clearance from the doctor to head home.

Our friend in Florida who had a large mass removed has returned home and is getting wonderful care from her sister and friends as she recovers from the surgery. We were saddened to learn of the untimely death of the brother of a friend in Charlotte. When I talked with her last evening, the family was grieving his death and awaiting details from the authorities. Pray for each of the family members, especially the mother. We are thankful that he was a believer, but there are many unanswered questions that the family is dealing with.

Our next door neighbor here at the lake had a cancerous lung removed and has just returned home (in Illinois), adjusting to a time of healing and dealing with the ever present oxygen tube. Also, we are having some dredging done around the lake to remove weeds and muck build-up from them, and the 10-year-old son of the machine operator hit his teacher last week and then pulled a knife on his mom and sister. Some heavy decisions have to be made there.

As we look around, we realize that we are so blessed of God. Yes, we find bumps and turns in the road that we are traveling, but what a privilege it is to know that this is not our final residence, and to experience the love and care of our wonderful Savior and the encouragement and support from all of you.

Our love to you all,

Chuck…and Carol too