Our weeks can often feel extreme and eclectic. So much of it is wonderful and some of it is terrible. Both, together. Ever-learning to be thankful in all circumstances.
April 29
Amanda's car has not been running for a bit so I've been transporting her to/from work. I'm thankful for the time together and the beauty of spring everywhere.
April 30
We went to Manhattan for treatment because, along with chemo, I was seeing a new doctor, this one a pain management specialist who my spine doctor referred me to.
What a view from their building!
May 1
No picture
May 2
Sarah's family had planned a post-graduation trip to Italy. Her brother has a significant leg issue leaving him unable to make the trip. So, a week in advance they extended an invitation for Avery to join them!! We were able to get Avery on the same flight with them, leaving from Boston. Sarah's mom sent me a smattering of pictures and updates through the week, which was appreciated.
May 3
The head TBQ person of our region reached out and asked if we would be willing to host the two-day event...churches from Virginia to Maine competing for a spot at Nationals, this year held in Dallas. With Katie spear-heading the effort and our pastoral staff fully supportive, it all came together.
I don't have adequate words for how beautiful and accepting this community is. Because its not the norm, its incredibly inspiring to me to see older people giving of their time, money, wisdom, experience even when they have no obligation, just out of their love of this next generation and a passion for serving Jesus.
For instance, this step-grandfather of one of the quizzers is plugged in enough to know this event was happening and that its something his grandson has been working at diligently and, as a result, is growing in so many ways. It was on his heart to buy t-shirts for the whole team. So sweet!
Pastor Jonny and McKenna never missed a district's meet. They faithfully showed up early on Saturday mornings, coffee and/or newborn in hand.
Once the quizzing was done for the day, we opened up the community center for games so the adults could mingle and the kids could vent some energy. Amy and I served ice cream to an eager line. Jack and Nathanael came in after work and lead Trivia and football.
What an absolute honor to serve alongside Katie these last four years of TBQ. I have so much respect for her, even more so now since we've spent each week together (and since our kids have been dating for two years... they are great parents!). She's one of those people...I always leave feeling encouraged and inspired after spending time with her. We have a shared love of God's word and the life-changing power it has and its been a joy to lead with her.
My first pictures from Rome. :)
May 4
The next day we finished out the quizzing. Once the churches had all left and we'd finished the cleanup, Pastor Jonny was back and treated us to pizza.
We grabbed a group picture, just missing Andrea her parents/coaches.
We went up the street to Amanda's friend's house where some acquaintances were gathered. Jason's parents came to see him off as well.
May 5
It was a cold and rainy Sunday afternoon and we got a perfect spot so I could watch the game from the car.
I didn't know that about Jack buying the shirts! That's amazing! The entire event looks like it was a massive success! You and Katie make a phenomenal team!
ReplyDeleteWell, the tears came over the TBQ pix....man! how special that has been for 4 years and AMEN to all that you noted. and then I got to the park pix...just amazing! I'm so glad your here! Here to serve, here to see, here to pose with Amanda, here to capture amazing shots of a bench in a park. Pass the tissues!
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