Provision

I've spent the last week "recovering"- which for me looks a lot like me trying to do stuff and getting yelled at;) I have always been a type A person, and let me tell you I was NOT prepared to have things take so long to heal. I still have a drain, which means I can't lift my left arm above my shoulder, and I am still not allowed to lift anything above 10lbs, or drive. Going from a do-everything kind of mom, to a semi-sedentary person who actually has to practice patience with herself has not been a strong point for me. I am anxious to feel better so that I can enjoy these last two weeks before I start chemo. I am 100% certain that I am learning a lesson in patience right now. Patience and pride. Accepting help has not ever been something I have been good at- BUT, when you try and take everything on yourself, you miss out on the beauty and the blessings of the people that God has placed in your life to provide that help. I know I keep saying this, but honestly I am SO overwhelmed with gratitude at everyone who has been here to pray, cook us meals (THANK YOU!!), take care of the girls, help with the "man" jobs while Joe is busy being Mr. Mom (seriously, this man is my hero), clean, run errands, take me to appointments, and even wash my hair (You know how much better you feel when you have clean hair, right?!) The greatest of joys has been brought to my life right now by the people who have reached out to help, and all who have offered prayers on our behalf. When I make it through this, I can promise you- if you need a friend who will help you bathe, cook you food, let you cry, do your laundry, hold your drains and wash your hair, I am your girl:) I feel like I could say thank you forever and it still wouldn't be enough. The last month has been so much easier because of the gift of friendship.

With all that said, I wanted to share some of the things that have been organized by my friends. All we ask for are your prayers for our family during this time, but if you feel led to do something else here is a link to my website: We Are Sarah Strong. It has links to a meal train, fundraiser, and our blog. There is a T-shirt fundraiser that ends tonight:) Also, my salon, Salon Evangelene in Medina is hosting a CUT-A-THON to benefit our family on May 16th from 5-8. The salon has an incredible team of very talented artists who are all volunteering their time and efforts, and we are so grateful to them for such a gift. Click here for more info!

We met again with the oncologist yesterday, officially consented for the clinical trial, and have a start date of May 21st for chemo. A lot will happen between now and then- testing, placing a "port" (permanent IV access), more appointments, etc. The drain is scheduled to come out on Friday morning (finally!) with my scans right after. Upheaval of the usual routine is an understatement, but thanks to lots of help we are meeting the challenge.

You know how people say "God is faithful to provide"? He does, and he is. We truly believe that every good thing comes from the Lord. He has provided us with "immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine", through His word, and through all of you. Because of this our needs are being met exactly when they need to be, anxiety over the future can rest, and we continue to praise the one who gives us HOPE beyond hopes.

Love to you all.

I lift up my eyes to the mountains—
    where does my help come from?

My help comes from the Lord,
    the Maker of heaven and earth.

 Psalm 121: 1-2

Snuggles are the BEST medicine.

Drains and all, we couldn't miss the Suhaj wedding!

Because it is necessary that you see this cheese face:)

PS...a little Meghan update while we're at it! She got her walker on Monday and is testing it out, and is pulling herself up to stand on everything she can. Her vocabulary is expanding, and her communication improving as we work with her. Her favorite song is still "if you're happy and you know it", and she always claps on cue. I cannot possibly harbor any grief when I look at her sweet face- her little voice is healing balm for the soul.