It is almost as if life is completely normal right now. Jim is on top of his routine, he is getting better sleep more consistently and the love and laughter that has characterized him is back in full session. If you've seen him in the office, you'll notice that he really seems like good 'ole Dr. Jim. And by the way, for the first time in 33 years, he wore a Halloween outfit. That's right, he was a hot-dog!The rest of the staff did wear Halloween costumes, but honestly, everyone's costume was overshadowed by Dr. Jim's giant, mustard-laden, thick-bun, hot-dog costume. WOW! In his own words, that's a "YAHOO!"
In addition to laughter in the office, there has been a great deal of humor in the home. He and I (Erik) have played ping-pong the last three nights, with each session catapulting at some point in to full-blown belly laughter. Anytime he comes close to winning a game, he grows a Christmas morning-grin and trash-talks his way to victory.
Mind you, victory is a rare thing for him, but you'd never know by the way he talks to me on the ping-pong table! One of our favorite moments was when I threw a slice serve over and he completely whiffed it. The ping-pong ball had so much English on it that it bounced on his side, he whiffed it, and then it bounced back on my side of the table. Believe it or not, I felt the draft from his whiff. We were rolling on the floor laughing. Great father-son moment!
A couple weeks ago, we went on a beautiful hike to the peak of one of the mountains in the Brighton Ski Resort. Dr. Cody (from our office) and his girlfriend Holly came along with us. It was a brisk, early morning hike that was refreshing and inspiring for all of us. Having the opportunity to get out in to God's creation so readily is such a privilege! And we're taking advantage of it.
Thank you for your continued thoughts and prayers. The support and has been genuine, heart-felt and beyond meaningful. It seems God has uniquely this season of love and laughter. We are prepared for the challenges that come our way, but today, we give thanks and rejoice in what God has given us. We extend our love, thanks and gratitude to you. Please stay in touch. And you can be sure that we'll stay in touch with you.
