Keeping At It

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus
Philippians 4:6-7


How empowering is that? I have read and re-read that verse every day this week. It's powerful stuff and the joy it brings me is immeasurable.

It hasn't been an easy week. Andrea's stressed out by the demands of AP Art and being a senior. She signed up for the ACT exam and had a melt-down when she learned the test would take up half of a precious Saturday. I cannot shield the girl from the demands of college planning and preparation. She needs to grow up in her understanding that if you want something out of this life, there are things which need to be done or paid for up front.

Michael has calmed down a bit, although he refused to accept the help anxiety medication provides. The hospice nurse offered it; he declined. I'm grateful that I will have the opportunity to meet with the nurse in person next week. Together, we may be able to convince Michael to accept the help that is available. He is concerned that his oxygen generator is not providing enough for his lungs and it's max'ed out. We may have to obtain another or a second machine. This may require another trip for pulmonary function testing - something Michael has also refused in the past. He has written "letters" to both my children and my mother - content unknown. But, I get the feeling that these "letters" posted via Facebook are to say good-bye. I don't think the kids or Mom have read them yet - nobody's mentioned them to me.

I have a pretty upbeat mood at the moment. I'm off work all next week to get some sewing done for the craft fair next Saturday and to get the house ready for fall (cleaning, organizing, etc.) The thing that helps me the most these days is prayer. I talk with God every morning on the way to work - just a conversation - trust me, I don't close my eyes during the drive! LOL. Some people are prayer walkers, I'm a prayer driver!

Milly has taken to a spot on the dining room table, so we will need to start "telling" her that's not appropriate spot for a proper kitty. Meaning: I have to find a cheap-o water pistol. Another one of her favorite things to do is climb up the legs of our jeans. The debate to de-claw or not rages on at Chez Howe. Milly also got bold enough to pounce on old Daisy. I don't think she'll be doing that again for a while!

One of the projects I'll be working on next week is a quilt for a raffle at the office. One of my co-workers was diagnosed with breast cancer earlier this year. Our horrible health insurance is not covering all her expenses, so we're doing a variety of things to raise some funds to help her out. The quilt raffle was my idea. I have the top all pieced - will order the backing and thread today so I should be able to get it loaded on the frame by Tuesday. I know one week is not going to take care of all the projects I have!

Last night, Andrea, me and Andrea's best friend re-organized the family room, put on a yoga DVD and for 45 minutes the three of us exercised together. I'm extremely proud that I made it through the routine for one thing. Additionally, it was nice to do something with both of the girls. I really hope we can keep it up. AND - Michael was a gentleman (for once) and didn't make rude comments or make fun of us.

Have a wonderful weekend.

Love ya,
Cathy