I realized that I had written this back on September 4th and did not post it, so I am posting two journal entries today.

I wanted to give a short update as people have been asking how I am since quitting chemo.  I went through a time when my feet reeked, and the skin was peeling off in thick, disgusting patches.  The good news is that I have come through that time with the skin being mostly healed and new and fresh underneath.  My feet don't hurt much any more, and the neuropathy has subsided significantly. 

My sister Crystal and I took a couple of days recently and did a little "stay-cation," which was great fun.  We went to Como and a St Paul Saints baseball game, a couple of Victorian home tours, including a new Glensheen Manion tour in Duluth, a train ride, (complete with a murder-mystery theater and prime rib), and more good food and history.  My soul needed it.

Labor Day weekend took me to Lou and Pam Mertz's lake house where I was further restored with friends and food and time with the Lord.  What a blessing and soul refreshing!  Now, it is back to work at jobs I love.  

We are busy at work because of the recent storms, and I am able to make it through an 8 to 9 hour work day without a nap.  I am still scheduling ministry appointments in the evenings, although I'm being much more aware of overbooking because I have a tendency to do too much, and as a result, I don't get many bike rides in or spend time with loved ones much.  I love the fall season and want to have some autumn activity:  apple picking, paleo pumpkin muffin baking, farmers market buying, and some thrift shopping.   

As always, I am blessed and grateful for this time and all the ways my Father has shown Himself to be faithful and loving.  Thanks for your prayers, love, and friendship.