New Woman

After a day or so of treatment (for laryngitis, sinus infection, stuffiness), I started to notice a difference.
I felt a spring in my step.
What WAS that wonderful feeling???

Oh, AIR!
I was starting to get significant oxygen into my lungs, into my brain, into my bloodstream, rushing all through my body with health!

I was starting to feel like a new woman!
What a good way to begin a New Year!


I remembered the chorus of an old hymn, maybe from childhood, "There is Power in the Blood":
"There is power, power, wonder-working power
In the precious blood of the Lamb..."

Giving thanks for Jesus, my Life-Blood.

I'll Be Home (sick) for Christmas

For a pastor's family, family traditions are highly related to the church's traditions and schedules.

John and I, in various places we have lived, have had a tradition that I would be his Christmas Eve liturgist (reader).

This year, however, I was out with laryngitis.
-Thanks, capable college student Julia Wahl, for helping to lead worship on short notice!

I missed the Sunday service as well.

By Monday morning, I was ready to see a doctor. I was stuffy, and my face hurt. John kindly called to make arrangements and took me in. I came home with antibiotics for a nasty sinus infection that went along with the laryngitis. I was also told to use a nasal irrigator, which I had never done before, so we chose Ocean Complete Sinus Irrigation from the pharmacy shelf. Eager to feel better, I took the first antibiotic pills right away, with the office drinking fountain. Then I carefully read the directions for the nasal spray and tried it as soon as we got home. It had instant and dramatic results, and was probably one of the most disgusting things I have done. But it was also strangely satisfying and amusing.

Time out from the "sick" story...
On December 19, John and I attended a lovely farewell event for music director Stacey... and Gary Becker at a previous church in Northville. While there, we also saw friends who mentioned a lack of entries in my blog. So to friends that I do not see regularly: "Thanks for noticing and caring, and always for prayer! You are in my heart."

Visiting Dr. Malviya

John and I just got home from my Dec. 8 appointment with Dr. Malviya. I am doing well. My Nov. 30 CT scan (pelvis, abdomen, and chest) was fine. Sigh. And bravo!

I go back for the same process in six months.

While waiting in the exam room, I quietly practiced some choir music (not because I am so diligent, but because I did not do it earlier). It was good for both my spirit and my breath.

"Peace, peace, peace on earth...
and good will to all.
This is a time for joy....."
(Words and music by Rick and Sylvia Powell)

And now, it is time to sleep.

Thank you, Holy God,
for health,
for moments of life,
for loving us,
for people to love...
and now for rest.