Happy Birthday!

 My husband is having a milestone birthday this week! It's extra special for us. Two short years ago, on this day, he was in the ICU fighting for his life from pancreatic cancer. They call the operation that he had a "whipple." Part of his pancreas, stomach and intestines were removed. There were a few complications and a heart specialist was also called in.

A young Glen at his Grandma's house in Kentucky

We have to be careful what he eats; fats, sugars and spices are hard to digest. He takes enzymes to help. All that said, he is a walking miracle. 

Early morning deep sea fishing

He exercises regularly and has kept strong. He eats just about whatever he wants in moderation as long as he takes prescription enzymes along with his food.  With a huge garden and small orchard,  we were healthy eaters anyway, so sensible eating isn't too hard.

We love a good salad

But, there's times, such as eating a large slice of his favorite birthday cake with lots of frosting, that have me holding my breath.

"Cotton" carrot cake

As much as I like to be in control of everything (yes, that's a downfall I've tried to correct for years!) I've learned to let him decide what he can handle. And, I pray. 

Never underestimate the power of prayer. God knows what we need. So, whether you're calling for protection for you or a loved one, know that the Lord is listening.

I ask, and don't thank, nearly enough, Lord.

Glen and Cotton are chopping and stacking firewood right now. That's no easy feat; our large oak and fir tree rounds that he splits must weigh over 50 pounds. 

Cotton and Glen chain sawing one of the smaller trees today

I thank God for the wonderful hospital and doctors that we have. And every day I thank Him for blessing me with another day alongside my husband at our little farmstead. I think that I will enjoy my husband's birthday more than he will.

Glen shares everything, even a once-a-year
fast food hamburger, with his sidekick, Cotton