Wrapping up the weekend . . .

The weekend was busy, yet quiet. Friday was a Corinth day and a visit with the oncologist; Tommy, Liz and family left for Family Camp; Saturday was too hot to do much of anything; and today we worshiped at Humboldt.

Ever since the TIA episodes in June and seeing the oncologist right after their occurrence we have felt as if our feet were stuck in concrete. It wasn't good news to hear that the medicine that was supposedly helping so much would have to be eliminated, even for the time being. The good doctor said that we would have to wait and see what happened in the next few weeks. Friday was the day we were to "see." Thankfully, my blood pressure has come down, so now the plan is to discuss medication possibilities with the primary care doctor that will assist the pressure to stay down. Elevated blood pressure is a possible side effect of the Avastin and an effect that was much more than a possibility in my case. We are all hopeful that medication will help and that I can get back on the Avastin ASAP. Again, Dr. Reed spoke of the scans taken in June, emphasizing that there was no advancement of disease. He even smiled some, making me feel much better! Hopefully, the red cell boosting shot I got will help chase away the constant fatigue. Tom and I celebrated at our favorite Corinth restaurant, the Dinner Bell, a typical down home, Southern eating place.

As we were getting back to Jackson, Tommy and his family were loading vans for Family Camp. The children had been talking about it for weeks--couldn't wait to go. I suspect the parents didn't share their enthusiasm. It takes a lot of effort to get everyone ready, pack the right equipment, sleep with seven in a room, then wade through all the dirty wet clothes upon coming home. The heat continues to be stiflling! Fortunately, there is a cold mountain stream running through the campsite that helps some with the heat. We didn't even consider going this year because of the heat and the walking involved. You might say that we're feeling our age these days. Saturday was too quiet. Just knowing that no one around the corner was home created a real feeling of emptiness.

I missed my Saturday early morning trip to the Farmers' Market--lack of energy and heat kept me home. Now it will be Tuesday before the tomato lady is there again and "Yes, we have no tomatoes." In the summer, that's just plain criminal!

This morning I had the opportunity to participate in the installation of the new pastor at 1st Presbyterian, Humboldt. What an uplifting service! The congregation has been so welcoming to the pastor and it was obvious that in the few short weeks she has been there that they have endeared themselves to each other. In many ways it was a homecoming experience for Tom and me as we literally soaked up the smiles and hugs that came our way. I look forward to seeing what God will do in Humboldt.

I look forward to seeing what God will do in our lives. How will He use me next? How will I use my gifts to glorify God? When God is in charge life is never dull. It is exciting and full of promise. I can't wait to see what comes next.

Blessings,
Pastor Margaret