A little more than seven and half weeks ago, Dad walked out of the house to go wash off the motor home. This afternoon, he walked back in the door. Dad is home. Dad is home. Dad is home.

He will have home physical and occupational therapy sessions each week. He has doctor appointments ahead and more tests. His PEG tube is set to be removed on Monday. This isn't the end of the recovery road, but it feels like the beginning of the final leg. Mom will again provide support and care for Dad, as she has unceasingly since Dad's fall. That care will be more physically and mentally demanding of her, but I'm sure she will also find time for some ukulele music. Mike and I are so grateful for all of the family and friends and neighbors who are here and "have her back."

Because we are being extremely Covid-cautious for Dad right now, if any local friends/family would like to visit we would welcome that and ask that you call ahead. If you know Mom's gift of hospitality then you know that this is going against her nature in a big way, but I have convinced her that the best way to keep them both healthy is for visitors to stand in the front yard and visit with Dad by phone through the window. Thanks so much for understanding.

A couple of weeks ago during my morning Bible reading, I read about Jesus' disciples asking him why a man was born blind. Jesus' reply was that it wasn't because of sin, but it was so that the works of God might be made visible through him (I'm paraphrasing there). That has stuck with me. I think Dad took that tumble off the ladder in October because God knew that His works would be made visible through Tom Love's journey of recovery.

Every person who has read these updates and left comments of encouragement, everyone who has said a prayer, brought a meal, or helped with "house stuff," all who have stepped forward without hesitation to help, you have all been God's hands, working visibly toward this miracle of Dad's return home today. When we drove through the gates of Belsera, there were welcome signs and the streets were lined with neighbors and family, cheering and welcoming Dad back home. Works of God in every smiling face. Thank you just doesn't cover our appreciation, but thank you for walking this journey with us.

In the car on the way home from the hospital, Dad was trying to come up with the right word to describe how he was feeling. Relieved...no, that wasn't right. Happy...no, that wasn't big enough. "I'm feeling joy. Joyful," he finally settled on. We are all filled with joy to have Dad home. It will be a joyful Christmas. I just looked back at the first words I wrote on this CaringBridge site: "We are abundantly blessed. All will be well." The Love family is signing off with that same sentiment: We are abundantly blessed. All is well. Our thanks and love to you all.