So Much to Be Thankful For!

Wow, I have been so overwhelmed with love and kind words and thoughts from everyone this past week. If ever a girl felt loved, I sure do. I have already learned so much from everyone's true Christlike kindness, willingness to help, and genuine concern as I'm heading into this new challenge! I am afraid I haven't been able to be as diligent at returning phone calls or emails or comments on the blog with it being my week back on track. But I want you to know it has touched my heart so much. Even to hear of the sweet people who always check in with my mom to see how she is doing warms my heart!

Many have been asking me, "How are you feeling?" So I figured I better give a quick update tonight, and then I can give more details after my doctor appointment Wednesday.

-I've had frequent headaches, but nothing I can't work through. They are mostly centered around my right eye. Advil has been helping a lot with this.

-My vision loss/cloudy vision is increasing, but I'm not sure at what rate (I'll ask the doctor if the tumor is growing).

-I am feeling fine! In fact, I am in great spirits, and I know it is due to the wonderful blessing and all of your fasting and prayers. I still feel happy, able to do my job, and even feeling prepared for PT conferences this week.

-I am even planning to still go to Israel in less than two weeks! When I told this to the temple matron yesterday, she laughed and said, "That's the spirit!" That is, if the doctor still believes it's wise. For some reason, I need to be there again. I'm excited to find out why. I will likely head into surgery right when I get back, but we shall see what the doctor says! (Do you notice a theme to this decision?)

I get teary as I hear about sweet children who pray for me. Thanks to all those wonderful parents who teach their children to have faith and trust in the Lord. I hope they know and feel that He IS answering their prayers, because I know their sincere prayers are truly heard and answered!

Some of what I've learned from this experience already:

I have learned from so many of you what it means to really care about people.

I have learned how much a phone call, note, or simple "I'm thinking about you" means.

I have learned that people have the capacity to care so deeply.

I'm realizing more what I want to spend my time and energies on.

I feel all the more grateful to know of your love and faith in the power of prayer.

I will keep praying to learn what it is I am to learn!

I KNOW the Lord is with me, and I'm so thankful for the comfort and security of the gospel and the power of the priesthood on Earth!

I will give more updates soon, especially after I meet with the doctor on Wednesday. :)