Rough....

Hello all! Well, before I get to the not-so-fun health stuff, I thought I would update you on our new house. I have been hesitant to call it that until now because a whole lot of things can happen from the acceptance of a contract to closing. However, so far so good! We found out there was a small termite issue, but no structural damage. They have treated, and we didn't have to pay for it! :) Our inspection was on Saturday, and it went SO well. There were only a couple of minor inexpensive things that we asked the seller to fix, but otherwise the house was in wonderful condition. It really doesn't even looked lived in, and the inspector was impressed. That is always a good sign!! We are still waiting to hear the results of the appraisal, but we are guessing it won't be until Tuesday evening as that is when we are going to meet with our lender. It's exciting to see things progressing! Right now, we are aiming to close the last week in February.

Another great praise is that Brian found a church that he likes. The head pastor actually used to be the youth pastor at a church in Kearney, NE (where we used to live). What a coincidence! It's a small church, and they really welcomed Brian when he visited. He is going to try and attend there when he can, and hopefully he can start building relationships and get some local christian support as we walk down this difficult road. Maybe someday, I will get to go there too!!!

Now onto the health update. This is where the "rough" title comes into play. After about 4 1/2 weeks off, I got back on my treatment round rotation. This past Tuesday was my first day, and I finished yesterday. It was REALLY rough. I haven't experienced symptoms like this before, and it was definitely a struggle to get through the weekend. I am experiencing some neuro side effects that keep me from sleeping. I already struggle from horrible insomnia, but this one tops the list of challenging symptoms. Starting on Tuesday, I started feeling like little needles were in my skin all over my body. I have felt sharp painful stinging sensations and the intensity has gradually increased the further I got into my treatment round. I know it's probably the result of the Lyme that has infected my nervous system, but it has been pretty difficult to deal with. I have also had a lot of trouble with increased nausea, fatigue, dizziness and my sensitivities have become worse along with my asthma. Not a fun time. Brian and I were talking, and we aren't sure if it's because I took a longer break in between my treatment rounds (we had to get on a new schedule because of Brian's job) or if it's just that my body is fighting the disease. Either way, it has definitely been a struggle and this is honestly the worst I have ever felt since we began this journey. However, even as I say that, I find comfort that I am right where God wants me to be.

Tonight, Brian and I were reading our devotional together and it was talking about how "God works all things together for good". That is from a verse that I memorized as a young child and is definitely not one that is easy to swallow when you are in the midst of a trial like ours; however, the truth of God's word prevails in every circumstance. It's a comfort to know that God is reigning over our situation and that this time is "good". Maybe not a "good" in the sense of positive events or perfect health, but a "good" that represents spiritual growth and perseverance. We may not get to experience our own earthly definition of "good", but we have the privilege of experiencing His "good" which is far better than anything in this world. It is always our prayer that our life will be a testimony to others. The devotion than went on to discuss 1 Thess 5:18 "In everything, give thanks". Hmm...once again a difficult challenge, but an important reminder. Brian and I definitely have a lot to be thankful for, but sometimes those things get lost in the midst of physical suffering. It's good to be challenged to once again fix our eyes on Jesus with a thankful heart who is the only one that can bring us comfort, joy and peace during this journey.

So, as we start this week, we would appreciate your prayers on a couple of things. First, that my symptoms would quiet down now that I am done with this round, and that I would get some sleep. I have to be able to work (I was way too sick today, so I had to get a substitute) my job. I can work from my bed, so that is a good thing! Second, that I would be able to take two new medications without allergic reactions or negative side effects that my doctor wants me to try. Third, that God would continue to pave the way for us to purchase the house, specifically a positive appraisal, a closing date the last weekend in February (the first weekend in March won't work because I will be on treatment again and will most likely be bedridden), stamina for me to be able to make it through the actual closing (being chemically sensitive makes it very challening to be in uncontrolled environments), and a decision on whether it would be more beneficial to paint with some No VOC paint (good for chemical sensitivities, and also would seal up the flat paint on the wall) before we move in or leave everything as is. Finally, that Brian would continue to learn at his new job, and that he will enjoy it. He loves everything so far, and it seems like they are impressed with him. Yay!!!

Well, that is all for now. I will try to update this coming weekend. I hope everyone enjoys their last week in January. February, here we come! :)