June Update

Daryl. . .    We have good news and challenges to report - I guess that means  we're balanced.  The good news:  betweeen an internal med md in Missouri, two osteopaths - one in Omaha and one in Wichita  - we've found some awesome doctors.  That's a far cry from what we've said the past three years.  Yes, we've found three innovative  health care professionals - praise God!  Actually four - we're working with another doctor in Tucson by phone as well.  And what's encouraging is  that the therapies Daryl has been on are having a positive effect.  He's put on about 20 pounds since his all time low about two months ago - halleluiah.!   We still have a long way to go, but good things are happening - we're thankful and praising God! The challenge:  please pray for encouragement for Daryl (and me too).  We've been battling his illness for three years now and it can become overwhelmingly discouraging.  Prayers, smiles, and connections is what we need and would cherish from our friends.  I even put a few suggestions at the bottom.

Jamie and Eric. . .    Praying for baby (ies)! BIG news - and a prayer opportunity:  they just went through in vitro May 29th and we'll find out June 8th if they're pregnant.  Please pray for  the little luvins (embryos) to implant and Jamie and Eric will have a healthy pregnancy and healthy baby (ies)!  Funny note:  Jamie's also put on 20 pounds: he he! - doctor's orders for increasing fertility chances. Also, their annual GOLF fundraiser is coming up soon.  Hole sponsorships are available and are a great way to help their ministry.  And they need golfers!  If you can join in the fun - it's a great time for a great cause.  Important:  you do NOT have to be a good golfer!  It's a best shot with prizes, silent auction and food.  This is their main fundraiser and all proceeds go toward their campus ministry.  Click here to register for the golf tournament or read about their ministry!

Rob's book. . . "Everburn. . ." is ever closer to printing!  Take a look:  The man overwhelmed him with powerful, gracious eyes.  "Are you intent on taking this road, Ponce?" His presence was much different than before.  Something like an invisible cloak had come off since their earlier meeting.  He looked the same, but everything else about him reeked of power.  Ponce felt like his soul was totally bare in this man's presence, but still somehow very safe.  Lying was impossible.  "Yes." "Please give me your right hand." Ponce extended his hand.  With a drowning stare, the man clasped his hands around Ponce's hand.  His eyes began to light up until they were a heavy gold.  A searing feeling started to envelop Ponce's fingers.  The burning slowly moved up to his knuckles, across his hand and into his forearm.  Flames flickered all around the set of hands.  He let out a quiet yell which grew into a full bodied roar of pain.  His arm felt like it was on fire from the inside, but in spite of the overwhelming pain, Ponce didn't try to let go.  The man's eyes held him totally placid until they dimmed to royal blue, and he released Ponce. The man's face was regal and calm.  "Do you know what a crucible is, Ponce?" Ponce had dropped to his knees and twitched his fingers while he stared at his palm.  "It's a container that can take incredible fire.  I think they're used in alchemy and metallurgy to melt things down."  He stood up and roared in anger.  "But I'm not a crucible!  What did you just do to me?" The man smiled.  "My name is Sotare, and I just made you into a crucible, my Crucible.  The world is in trouble and only my fire can heal it." "Fire kills and destroys.  It can't heal." Sotare's smile remained in the same place.  "Mine can.  And you will carry it, Crucible."    Andy. . . Is loving Atlanta, spending time with Kim, cheering on the Braves, Hawks & Falcons, going to Buckhead church and working at World Financial Group.  We keep trying to convince him Iowa's the place to be, but we haven't succeeded yet.  Okoboji calls him though!  He and Kim are coming back for the fourth of July. Yay!  How to be an encourager. . .  Being seriously ill is one of the most devasting and discouraging things that can happen to someone.  Believe me, we know.  Health problems hinder us, cause us stress and often generate intense emotions such as discouragement, fear, lonliness, anger or depression.  Being encouraging and sometimes just being there for someone who is sick is extremely valuable in their healing process.   I cannot say it enought:  this is when we need family and friends the most.  Three things you can do to be an encourager:  1.  Periodically send a note or email of encouragement or interest - right now.   Remember , words are powerful.  'The tongue of the wise promotes health" (Proverbs 12:18) and "A wholesome tongue is a tree of life" (Proverbs 15:4).   Be positive -  thank them for their friendship, help or for their part in your life.  Talk about common interests.  It will only cost you a few minutes and you'll be a blessing and be blessed in return!  2.  Help your friend/family member maintain their life as normal as possible.  This helps keep a sense of confidence, positive outlook and order to an otherwise chaotic situation. 3.  Stop by for a visit - Daryl had the biggest smile on his face when our friend Jan Tjeerdsma stopped by last week and surprised him with a gift.  Encouragment and positive environments are healing - thanks for your part in our healing journey - we love you!