I love big families--especially mine! Several of Dad's brothers, his sister, and an assortment of nieces, nephews, and LOTS of kids gathered at my house last night to celebrate Dad's successful cancer surgery, the never ending love of Jesus, and life in general!  Part two is tonight!

My cousin Tiffany, who is a budding poet,  wrote the sweetest tribute to my Dad called "Where I'm From."  She framed it and presented it to him last night.  When I read it to him, we were both in tears. She ended it with this postscript:

"Uncle Chet, this poem was written for you with love, because no matter where you are from or where life takes you in the future, you will always have a family who loves you and a lifetime of precious memories."   I might add that our future is eternally secure because of Jesus! 

We watched lightening from the porch as storms raced up the spine of our mountains in the distance. We laughed over old stories so familiar but still so funny. We praised the Lord with tears and hugs and Hallelujahs.

So much has changed in three short weeks. We've been fighting this aggressive cancer since February.  It's still so unexpected. We prayed for this, and when God delivers, it just takes my breath away.  Thank you Jesus for all you have done for us!