This last week marked two months since our family’s collective vision for the future shattered. Assumptions and tacit plans for how life would unfold over the next few decades went out the window. 

Mom has come a long, long way in the last 60 days. Her prognosis remains the same, but her quality of life has steadily improved. She’s been able to wean off all pain meds, and she’s hoping to start physical therapy to help her continue to regain strength and mobility. We are so grateful for this progress and gift of time - a miracle prayed for by so many! 

Last year, the kids’ school newsletter mentioned a unit the middle schoolers had done on kintsugi or “golden repair.” This Japanese art form uses golden lacquer to repair broken pottery, seeing the cracks as a beautiful part of the object’s history rather than something to hide. It’s a great metaphor for how our family has begun to reassemble our plans for the future: as we put events, traditions, and celebrations back in their place, we do so with a greater appreciation for each and every one. Small things, like Mom going to Stations of the Cross next week so she can hear Graham read, and much bigger ones, like my cousin’s wedding in July. Erin and Nathan’s wedding plans are back on track - and I think we’ll all approach their day with a deeper appreciation for what it means to gather those you love to celebrate life’s milestones.

This next phase is one we didn’t think we’d get: a return to normal. But like a vase that’s been glued back together, it’s not quite the same as before. Our hope is to fill this special time with as much gold as possible: togetherness, laughter, and love. 

God-willing, we won’t have many updates for a good long while. Mom, Dad, and the rest of us are beyond grateful for the support poured out over the last few months: prayers, meals, funny texts, reminders to rest, childcare, rides, messages of hope. Love, in so many of its forms. Thank you, thank you, thank you. 

We love you, 

The Drees Family