Happy New Year

I've been lazy in updating my posts and the beginning of the new year is a good time to get back into the habit and reflect on what God has done in our lives this last year. I can honestly say this last year has been a challenge for both Mike and myself. The challenges we had were dealing with a serious illness for Mike and plus all the doctor, hospital and chemo appointments needed in order to deal with the illness. Remembering the first week we found out about the cancer, God rocked our world and we felt like we had been hit with a freight train. In the course of four days, Mike had 3 surgical procedures, numerous blood and lab tests plus his first chemo treatment. Sitting in our recliners during the evening we first came home from the hospital, Mike said, "I have cancer". I think it finally sank into our brains at that time. Throughout the summer months of chemo treatments, more tests and lots of doctor visits, we saw God's hand in Mike's life and how we were able to share our faith. We shared our testimonies countlessly, prayed with others who were experiencing challenges in their lives and saw positive changes in those lives. Mike's Oncologist is a Christian and during Mike's last visit asked if they could pray at the end of Mike's appointment. Now, how many doctors do you know who are willing to pray with their patients! Mike and I also were able to share our lives in a class on Sunday mornings called, "Honor begins at Home." We had a total of 24 people in the class. Our prayer through this class was that God would touch the lives of those attending and make a difference in their lives. Mike and I are hearing periodically from those who were in the class and how their lives were changed by the Holy Spirit. We were on vacation one Sunday and we gave the couples a "Homework" assignment that required couples spend a date night and do a "check-up" on their marriage and what they were doing right and what needed fine tuning. One couple told Mike the date night would never happen because the relationship was so strained and hostile. Just this last month, this same couple approached Mike and told him on their vacation to Arizona, they started walking in the evenings and talking. They eventually talked about their marriage and did the "check-up". The husband told Mike their relationship was the best now than it had ever been in the past. This is just one story we heard. There are a few more, but time and space preclude me from sharing the other stores. Mike and I are blessed that the Holy Spirit was present in the lives of those attending our class and the class had a positive outlook on their lives. This glory goes to God alone! Christmas was a highlight this year too as we had a lot of family here at the house and I love to just sit and watch the kids and grandkids visiting happily together. What a blessing it was and I'm sure I had this funny smile on my face all afternoon long. All the work, cleaning and baking was worth all the smiles, giggles and hugs. I want to thank our friends, family and those who know us who have stood by us and been prayer warriors this past year. Mike and I feel so blessed by you all and I can't think of a better way to end this post than by thanking you all. With the new year upon us, our prayer is for continued healing and good health for both Mike and myself, and continued fellowship with those we hold so dear. Again, thank you all!!! PS: No recipe this time, just a thank you to you all.....