I would start this out by saying something like, "It's been a long time since I updated this," but it seems I begin all of these that way. Therefore, I will not. Things have been going well since my last update. I've been out of the hospital for a couple of months, and I'm going to the clinic only once a week.

My blood cell counts, including my white blood cells, continue to rise. Also, the Epstein-Bar Virus has been taken care of and my lymphoma seems to be gone. On Tuesday, January 13th I will be going in to have my PICC line taken out, and they will be putting in a port. This will make it much easier to do certain things, including showering. Megan is very excited that I'll be showering every day again!

Last update I mentioned that one of the hardest parts of all this is just the boredom, so I decided to start doing some volunteering at the church I attend. I am now helping to put together our online worship services every Sunday. Basically, I get sent all the videos we need, including liturgy, hymns, the message, etc., and I edit them together and add text for things like responsive readings and scripture readings. I am really enjoying this, and I know the church appreciates it.

We had a wonderful Christmas and New Year. While it was hard to be away from our families because of COVID restrictions, and because I have zero immunities to anything right now, it was nice to have time with just Megan and the kids. There was no rush to get to where we needed, and it was quit relaxing. Also, it snowed on Christmas Eve! What more could one want then family and snow?

In December, we were very worried financially. Megan's unemployment ended, and the little I receive from disability isn't enough to pay rent and all the rest. Yet we know that God continued, and continues, to be good. Throughout the entire month, we were blessed by the support of others. I am amazed, given the times and how many are struggling, that so many people reached out to help us. We were also following the debates in congress very closely and were happy when they agreed to extend unemployment benefits.

Speaking of employment, I've begun to think about what it is I want to pursue when I get through all this health stuff. I really enjoyed my work as a Peer Recovery Specialist, unfortunately during the time I was ill I let my license lapse. I'd have to take the class again, and the licensing exam, but I know I could do those things. I have also thought more about starting a masters in addiction counseling. And then there's the church. I think if there was a way to marry all of these things together, it would bring me great joy.

Well, that's pretty much where I and my family are. Thank you to everyone who continues to support us with prayers, presence, and gifts. We couldn't do this alone, and because of you we don't have to.

Peace,

Howie