Speck of the Minds Eye: What a 13 year old can teach you

The first 6 months of 2013 has been filled with the best of times and the blurst of times (typo intended you stupid monkey!). We recognize how dear family is to us. This is nothing new - but this year has really shown just how much. Adversity or other bumps in the road (some seemingly insurmountable) really bring out the best in most people, some even surprise you! So through this tough time, we have forged new friendships, strenghtened some existing ones, and enforced family bonds. Others seem to have a harder time dealing with adversity for various reasons and it brings out their worst. All you can do is let go and shake your head sadly.

The last couple of months for us has centered both directly and indirectly around a 13 year old boy with brain cancer. He is out of medical options. And I love every member of his family like my own. Gavin's impact on our family is huge. The little things he did for us without realizing what it meant to us at the time. Things like warming Logan up for her games when Mark had to work late or sitting in the Garage Mahal with Mark, and no one else, watching a game while eating candied sausages.

I have watched what impact Gavin has had on our street, to our community, and nationally. I think back to when Gavin and his family first came in to our lives and how different things are now. The journey he has had to take these last two years, his family's faith and strength, and I am heartbroken but also amazed. I now hug with unabashed abandonment (ok for me at least), I try to tell those I care about that I love them. So if you haven't heard it from me - I am putting you on notice. Our small family, the three of us, have grown stronger as a family unit. And we have talked about things that are sad and hard but necessary. We stress the value and need of community and friendship and to control only the things you can control. Let others do what they feel they need to. We are amazed by the generous nature of our own 11 year old who has sold many of her toys to raise money for Gavin and his family. We are also finding opportunities as a family to spread Pediatric Cancer Awareness where we can. Our latest endeavor is our participation in the Biggest Loser Off-Road Challenge where we are representing The Truth 365 and Gavin on August 24th. Please check out their site The Truth 365 and watch their film. Also to read Gavin's Story - feel free to sign his guest book while you are there. We continue to be hopeful and pray for a miracle for him but also have shed many tears along the way.

So family and friends, if we seem distracted its because our thoughts are elsewhere. Please keep Gavin and his family in your prayers. Your show of support, compassions, and thoughtfulness amazes me. Some of you I have not spoken with in a long time but it a great feeling to know you support and care. We are truly blessed as a family with such great friends and family.

And now for something completely random. Some picture of the great landscaping work at the cottage and the new stove/ Microwave!!! No more guessing the temperature of the oven - which was a real challenge for us novice cooks!