God is Good, ALL the Time!

Thank you for praying!  Tom has had no more vomiting for which we are so thankful for.  He also has gone into work everyday this week.  Today will be a long day with several student and staff interviews.  I believe he is gaining more confidence with each day and has realized that the chemotherapy can't keep him down!
Tuesday evening after Tom rested and before dinner we decided to take a bike ride around Sharon Woods Park.  For those of you who are bike helmet advocates...you'd be proud, we both had our helmets on!!  After a good 5+ mile ride we returned home...locked out.  While we were loading up in the garage before leaving for our bike ride our dog was going nuts because she thought she was going to get to go.  We believe she jumped up against the door and locked it!  Anyway, our brother-in-law, Terry, came to our rescue with several house keys!  Thankfully one of them worked and we hope he threw away the ones that I believe are from our first house or several doors ago!  Life is an adventure.
Thank you for praying for our son-in-law, Zac.  He along with his 8 students arrived safely at Momentum...yea!
Last Sunday at church our dear friend, Morgan Meyers, sang a song I hadn't heard before but touched my heart as so many things do these days.  It was called "Desert Song" and she did an amazing job with it.  If you have time to listen I know you'll be blessed.

Morgan's 21st birthday was July, 12th!  Happy Birthday, Morgan...we love you!

Speaking of the Meyer's family...Carylee invited me over yesterday for a "pool day".  What a beautiful day to enjoy His creation and fellowship together around their beautiful pool.  Thanks for a relaxing day, Carylee...a special time.  I'm not sure we would ever run out of conversation!

God continues to encourage me with His Word.

"I sought the Lord and He answered me

and delivered me from all my fears.

Those who look to Him are radiant with joy;

their faces will never be ashamed."

Psalm 34:4-5

I pray that when you see me and I see you our faces radiate with His joy!



Happy Anniversary Dan & Brittany! Chemo Re-Start

I'm putting a "warning label" on the front of this post...if you don't have a lot of time or stomach...don't read this...it's long and gross!

"I, therefore, the prisoner in the Lord,

urge you to walk worthy of the calling you have received,

with all humility and gentleness, with patience,

accepting one another in love,

diligently keeping the unity of the Spirit

with the peace that binds us."

Ephesians 4:1-2

Yesterday we met with the oncologist.  He did not order the MRI, the radiologist did,  and he believes it was too soon to get a good read.  The report stated that there were "enhancements" on Tom's brain which they interpret to be either radiation/surgery effects or tumor regrowth.  The doctor did not think it was tumor regrowth for which we are thankful.  The oncologist wants another MRI in 2-3 months.  We know that the PROTOCEL can also show up on an MRI so we are trusting God that this is what the "enhancements" are.  Last night Tom took his first day of round one of six chemotherapy treatments.  The doctor said make sure you have the anti-nausea medication on hand.  Neither Tom or I thought that he would need this since while on the chemo during radiation he never needed it, however he wasn't taking as large a dose either.  At 1:47 a.m. Tom began the vomiting.  He got back in bed and I said "I am so sorry" and he replied, "it's not that bad" and I proceeded to get the anti-nausea medication.  It wasn't ten minutes later he was back in the bathroom hurling over the great white throne.  He crawls back into bed and I say "I'm so sorry, can I pray with you?" and he replied, "I'm okay, just a little vomit, yes, please pray" so we prayed.  At 2:18 a.m. came the last round of yuck in the toilet.  We didn't know it would be the last one so I prayed and waited...fell asleep.  In the morning I was sure he would be wiped out and not wanting to go to work...boy was I wrong.  Tom came into the kitchen dressed, ready for work and singing "My God Reigns"!!  Therefore the verse at the top, Ephesians 4:1-2, my husband:  walking worthy, humble, gentle, and patient.  Tonight we have a better strategy...no turkey tacos for dinner, take the anti-nausea medication before the chemo and eliminate one chemo pill.  You see, yesterday I browned, prepared and froze 15# of turkey meat for tacos while we're on vacation with 24 family members the first week of August.  I had some extra meat and thought we'd just have tacos for dinner last night not even thinking that he may get sick.  Hind sight is 20/20!
Speaking of sight...Tom is still limited in his peripheral vision of his right eye.  I have noticed that he is getting more accommodated to it and compensating better for it.  However, he remembered that he had a warranty on his current glasses and wanted to get the replacement lenses even though it wasn't a new prescription, so we ordered his new lenses.  We went to Sears yesterday to pick them up and ran into Holly Varian and her mom, Judy Bechtel.  What sweet women who have prayed, encouraged and empathised with us on this journey.  I can't think of anyone better to understand what we're going through than the Bechtel family.  Thanks for your hugs and encouragement yesterday.
Also, yesterday while at COSTCO I ran into Sue LaMonte.  What an unexpected surprise and encouragement.  Sue has been such a prayer warrior for us even when she was facing such a difficult time in her life.  Sue fell on the ice this past winter and crushed her wrist for which she has had two surgeries and a lot of rehab.  During that time her daughter who is "high risk" had precious baby Hayden who has since had some difficulties.  I was encouraged yesterday that he is doing well.  It was great to see you Sue!
We are thrilled to let you know that Tom was at the high school yesterday working from about 10-2!  And he's back again today!  Please pray that he will maintain a confidence in who he is as a principal and that he can continue to keep the pace with working during the chemotherapy.  I know I am encouraged and sense the body lifting us up.

While Tom and I were still in Florida, Matthew had a cyst removed from his arm!  He is a tough kid (like father/like son) and didn't even need his mommy to hold his hand during this procedure!  Anyway, today he is having his stitches removed and he's a man going alone.

Our son-in-law, Zac is driving a van full (8) of teenagers from his youth group in Indiana to Pennsylvania for Momentum Youth Conference.  Would you please pray along with us for their travel safety and a great week of listening to and obedience to God's Word?  We know Sarah would love to be alongside of Zac, however we trust as she is faithful to her new job she will receive blessing too.  One day soon she can be that full-time pastor's wife that she will be so good at!

Last but definitely not least is a shout out to Dan & Brittany Magee...Happy 3rd Anniversary!  Continue walking with Jesus, trusting Him and being faithful to His calling on your lives and you will be richly blessed.  We so look forward to being together at Barefoot Landing and continuing our family fun tradition anticipating a baby Magee with us next time...WOW!  Praying for your wisdom in your housing situation, job changes, a move and a healthy pregnancy.
Okay that wasn't last...but it reminded me...when Tom & I arrived home our computer wasn't working.  We knew before we left that it was having "issues".  We are so grateful to Tom's parents and brother for the gift of the laptop...only God could time something like that!  I just pray that we will eventually be able to get the pictures and some documents off of the old computer.  I wanted to post Dan & Brittany's wedding picture but can't retrieve or even start the old computer so this picture will have to do again.



Home...Reality...Bills...Tax Audit...Sunshine...Bittersweet...

Lisa's parents and neice, Lauren & her husband Tim when we said "good bye"

Mille, too (mom's beloved dog...ha ha...she's my dad's hunting dog)

We arrived home Thursday around 11:30 p.m. with no delays.  Matt picked us up from the airport and deposited us in our quiet home with a table piled with mail, refrigerator and cupboards empty and reality hit.  I can't say I was in a good mood...I am learning to be thankful in all things, however I was struggling with being thankful to be home.  Yes, I was very thankful for the time away, precious memories made, family, beautiful weather, enjoying God's creation and the safety of a great trip...but, thankful for piles of bills, rain, and doctor's appointments?  I'm still working on that.  Friday filled up quickly with sleeping in, going through the mail, paying bills, unpacking, Tom's MRI and going to the grocery store.  Many people have called or texted wanting information regarding Tom's MRI.  We were initially going to meet with the radiologist following the MRI, however the radiologist called while we were still in Florida and postponed the appointment until July 18th.  We do meet with the oncologist on Monday, July 11 and we know that he will have received the report from the MRI so we are trusting we will get some good results then.
Tom and I enjoyed lunch on the patio today and we had a hard conversation.  He says he just doesn't feel "normal".  I truly believe that the anti-seizure medication is making him feel this way.  He was doing so well and really not requiring as much sleep/rest and since being back on the medication he seems like he's needing more rest and tires more easily.  We are both so thankful his appetite is back and he has put on some much needed pounds!  We continue to walk trusting God and knowing He is in control and has our best interest mind.  Tom's hearts desire is to be back at work this next week.  He said he's not sure if they want him back if he's not "full" capacity and I assured him that they did.  Even Tom's less than "full" capacity is way beyond my slightest capacity!  I know he can do some work, but with the difficulty of reading and his fatigue level, we will just have to take one day at a time.
We are so thankful to and for Kevin, Ulrike & Abby Brennan for keeping Addy for us while we were gone for such a long time.  I am upset with myself again for forgetting to get the camera out to take their picture when they dilevered Addy back to us.  They are such treasured friends who not only love us, but our dog too!  Addy loves going to their "farm" in the country and being the pampered indoor pet at their palace!  We so appreciate not only their keeping and loving her while we're away, but also picking her up and bringing her back to us!! 

Addy (R) meets Opie Homoelle (L) who Matt is dog sitting for!

Our Anniversary

Yesterday Tom and I celebrated our 26th wedding anniversary!  What a blessing to enjoy our day here in Florida.  We went to Manasota Beach and I don't think I've ever seen such a calm gulf.  It was perfect.  Tom and I went on a very long beach walk, swam and had a picnic lunch. Tom is trying to exercise daily to gain back some strength and build his endurance.  I couldn't think of a better way to spend the day.  We then ended our day with an amazing meal at The Crow's Nest.  Tom had grilled mahimahi and I had grilled red snapper, both were delicious.  Tom and I have said good bye to one of our favorite foods...fried fish!

This isn't a good picture, but wanted to put it on the blog...notice the sign above us!

"Amazing Grace"...we're experiencing it!

Last night my parents went to Ft. Myers airport to pick up my niece Lauren and her husband Tim, who are here for a week!  No break for my parents...they go from company to company!

Please pray for us as we enter back into reality.  Tom has his first post-radiation MRI on Friday.  Oncology appointment on Monday with the chemotherapy restarting.  If I can be brutally honest, I would much rather live my life in "vacation world".  I am not looking forward to entering back into reality.  Tom is ready to get back to "normal", whatever that is!  He is looking forward to getting back to the high school and finding his routine.  I'm still praying about my job commitments.  My priority is Tom and seeing that he is properly cared for!  We feel that I can make some firmer decisions about work once the MRI results are back.  God continues to teach us how to live our lives "daily" relying on Him.

Tom and I want to thank our parents for all the love and support they have given us and we know they will continue to give us.  We are truly blessed and we're so thankful for the time we've had together.  We will see them again soon, Tom's nephew is getting married on July 30th in Clinton, IL so we will all be together there.  My family will all (25 of us) be together in Tennessee for our annual family vacation.  We always look forward to our times together with family.  Thank you family...we love you!

Happy Birthday America!

Sunday morning we were encouraged by the sermon here at First Baptist Church of Venice.  America was founded on Christ and how far we as a nation have come from that foundation.  Our country needs revival and that begins with me!  Am I willing to surrender all to Him and allow revival to start with me?  I shared Sunday that it is so hard for me to step into the "surrender circle" apart from Tom.  Tom is such a vital part of my life.  This mornings devotions God spoke "You will never be in control of your life circumstances, but you can relax and trust in My control.  Instead of striving for a predictable, safe lifestyle, seek to know Me in greater depth and breadth."  Lord, You know I'm trying.

Sunday we enjoyed lunch at Marker 4 then Terry and Kelly were off to Ft. Myers to fly back to Columbus.  Tom took his usual afternoon nap and Mike, Cheryl and I enjoyed great conversation in the pool!  Dad and mom got back in time to then take Mike and Cheryl to Sarasota to fly back to Pittsburgh with then a very late night drive back to Akron.  Tom and I will never be able to communicate our love and appreciation for the commitment Terry, Kelly, Mike and Cheryl have made to us.  What honor and love we feel as they continue to give, love and commit to whatever we need.  Thanks guys for a great week of memories made and cherished time together...we love you.

Sunday evening we enjoyed the Sunday evening service at the beach singing patriotic songs, a challenge from God's Word and a baptism in the gulf!  A beautiful evening and God held the rain off until we were all back in the car!

Monday started early with me taking off on a bike and time to think and pray.  It was a cloudless sky and a beautiful time exercising my legs and brain!  My mom's bike is equipped with odometer and after 5 miles and time for Tom's medicine I was back at the house.  After telling Tom about my great ride he said "I want to go on a bike ride!".  So after blueberry pancakes for breakfast and trimming the hibiscus tree the four of us jumped on bikes and headed out for another 5 miles!  What a great way to start the holiday.  Lunch by the pool and then nap time for Tom allowed me more quiet time floating on a raft!  The rain clouds rolled in around 3:00, perfect timing to make fruit bowl and relish tray before heading to the Homoelle Family condo for dinner and fireworks!

Friends since 1984, when Tom met Kent Homoelle at WCHS, we have enjoyed our times with them over the years.  Kent is one of Tom's "best friends" and Tom always looks forward to his time with him.  We both love their family and Suzanne and the girls are all so sweet.  Our son, Matt is actually house and dog sitting for them while they are here in Venice.  Suzanne made fajitas for us all, Kent's mom, Suzanne's dad and my parents too! 

My parents received a VERY exciting phone call while we were there...they're going to be great-grandparents!  My niece Brittany and her husband, Dan Magee are expecting their first child in December!  As soon as my parents hung up Tom and I received a call to announce our "greatness"!!  What fun times and excitement ahead.  The storm rolled through and it cleared off beautifully for fireworks off the Jetty over the gulf...they were spectacular.

Courtney, Bethany, and Colleen Homoelle

Celebrating our FREEDOM

""Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."

John 8:32

Boat, Brills & Breakfast

Yesterday we enjoyed the day on the inter coastal waterway.  The skies were a little overcast so it wasn't too hot.  We left Nokomis and went to Sarasota and then back for about a four hour boating adventure.  What an enjoyable day.

After the boat ride we stopped in Nokomis Grove for some of their famous "citrus" ice cream.  The popular flavors are orange, lime and pineapple.  They "twist" the flavors and Tom and I shared an orange lime combination cup...yummy!
A stop at a local produce stand gave us fresh corn (delicious) to go with our rice and beans dinner!

This morning Tom and I were able to enjoy breakfast with one of Tom's Bryan College basketball teammates, Ed Brill and his wife, Michelle!  What a treat to have them connect with us and make the reunion possible.  It is always good to catch up and know that their are godly people in our lives willing to pray for Tom.  Thanks Ed & Michelle for breakfast, fellowship and friendship!
Today is our last day before Terry, Kelly, Mike and Cheryl head back to Ohio.  We were sad to wake up to rain for our last day, however the skies are lightening up and the rain has stopped.  I think we will still take one last trip to the beach.



Florida Fun & Fellowship Continues!

As you can see from the picture above that we are relaxing!  But you also can see that the skies have been overcast.  We are not complaining about the weather, however it is very untypical for this area to have multiple days such as this.  Florida has not had a lot of rain and we are thankful for the rain the Lord has sent.
We are also thankful that Tom has not experienced any other "situations" since his seizure on Sunday evening.  It took him a couple of days to adjust to the medication so we just relaxed around the house here with little activity.  Mom and dad have been so accommodating to all of us and such great hosts.  They treat us like royalty and spoil us!  Most mornings a group exercises, walking, riding bikes or jogging.  Neither Tom or I are a part of that group!  I enjoy quiet times by the pool until Tom decides to get up.
Yesterday we ventured to Siesta Key Beach and we all got more sun than we thought.  After cleaning up we went back to the Captain's Table to enjoy outdoor eating on the bay.  However, the storms rolling in did not allow for outdoor eating or watching a sunset.  We did enjoy the amazing meal and continued fellowship.  Fun pictures were taken with memories made.

Today we are looking forward to an afternoon boat ride up the inter-coastal waterway.  Today the skies are clearer and it looks like it will be a beautiful day.
Our hearts go out to the Palumbo family.  Sunday, June 26, Barb Palumbo met her Lord and Savior at heaven's gate.  A daughter, sister, wife, mother, aunt and friend will be greatly missed here on this earth.  We look forward to seeing her again on heaven's shore.  We lift up her precious family as they celebrate her life today at her funeral service.