An Update and a Special Visit

I haven’t blogged for awhile because of my dear, little mother’s health needs.  Her recent heart attack left her very weak and in need of help with many things she had been doing on her own.  We’ve had some scary days (and nights) and often wondered if she would be with us much longer.  Of course we continue to rest assured that she is in God’s hands and there can be no better place for our dear ones to be.  My dear mother has improved a tiny bit but is still needs a lot of rest.  She saw a cardiologist last week and his words brought hope in my heart.  He was kind and took more time with us than I imagined possible.  He gave her new medications to help her heart work a bit better.  She is having some light side effects as her body adjusts to the changes but is able to do some things around her home. 

My days are busy but I am right where I want to be, doing just what I want to do.  I’m always amazed when I look back and see how God has prepared me – and the circumstances of my life – for times like this.  I retired from my chaplain ministry at the end of last year with a sense that I needed to be more available to my dear, little mother.  Little did I know how true that would be.  Thank you for your notes and emails and prayers.  We see God’s care for our dear one and for us every day! 

I love the way God sends special moments just when we need them most.  One of those times happened just a few days ago.  I had a surprise visit from a young lady who marched right into my home – smiling!  Miss H. was so happy to see me and it wasn’t long before she was in my back yard, offering help with my garden beds.  Of particular interest to her was an area that has not yet been planted.  And a tiny, old shovel quickly brought out her ‘gardener’ skills.  Her little face still shows signs of the treat she brought to share!Her consultant was close by to give advice and be of assistance.It wasn’t long before she decided to have a brief conference with him to see if he would give her some help.After the hard task of gardening was finished I was treated to a concert of the finest quality.  There was a bit of commentary, too, as the sound of music filled the room. Notice the clean, little face - the rule at my house is that hands (and face) have to be clean before you can play my piano.I invited my young helper to come back again soon.  She left with hugs and kisses – and a promise to return again soon.

(The photo above is not from my garden.  I wish it was!  It's from a beautiful place I visited on a garden tour recently.  It's good inspiration!)