Hello from rainy Washington,

Melissa and I were so excited this morning to see the sun.  However, we were quickly reminded  that “we aren’t in California anymore” when the rain clouds moved in and drowned our earth again.  We enjoyed the brightness while we had it.

Sharmi is struggling with pain on a sporadic basis.  For about three weeks she will randomly ask for pain meds, frequently in the middle of the night.  Last week she twisted her leg at gymnastics.  It worried me because she didn’t complain and she wouldn’t talk about it.  However, it took her about 15 seconds to get up, and when she finally did she stubbled and had a heavy limp.  I asked if she was OK and what she hurt, but she wouldn’t look at me and she walked toward the trampoline and said “lets jumpp.”  I think she was scared too, so she wanted to ignore it.  Luckily she seemed fine.  This weekend though she complained of knee pain when I was putting her to bed.  It is the same knee where her cancer manifested.  I am hoping that it is just like an “old injury” that gets tired and sore.  I am trying to trust and not worry about it. 

I have another issue that I would like prayers for.  Dean has won a trip with his company due to the success of his branch this year.  It would be a lovely and much needed break, but we don’t know what to do with the kids.  Kids are not allowed on the trip, but we have asked them to make an exception if we take a nanny and don’t have the kids at any of the company events.  I don’t see how we can leave Sharmi as emotionally fragile as she is (especially with her night terrors) and I am also still nursing Chantel.  Please pray that they will make an exception for us, and if not, that we will make the right decision for the family.  Dean really deserves this trip and I haven’t been able to go on the past company trips that he has been awarded (I was 9 months pregnant and then Sharmi was too young).  Wait a minute; after 2 kids, a flood, a house rebuild, cancer and a move I DESERVE this trip.   

Thank you for your continued support and prayers. 

Cheris