Simple JOYS

 

They say the two weeks following radiation and chemo can be really tough. The side effects of the intense 6-week treatment still linger so mom has had to really take care not to overdo it and rest a lot. We're learning a lot through this process especially how to take extra special care of our extra special mother. We're quickly realizing limits and adjusting to a quiet routine. Mom continues to amaze us. She's been such a trooper getting through this second major hurdle in treatment. 

One of the major perks about living in Boise is the glorious spring sunshine and the beautiful blue skies. Hollie took mom to meet up with Hillary at her neighborhood park in Tuscany. It's a joy to be with Hillary's boys. They miss Nanna so much and of course she misses them too. We can't get enough of their smiles. 


Mom hasn't had the energy to do too much. For quite a while, our only outings have been to the hospital but Hollie and Hillary enjoyed taking mom to brunch one morning at one of her favorite breakfast places in Meridian, The Griddle. 




I'm in awe at the hope and beauty God blesses the earth with every spring. Mom's neighborhood puts on quite the show in the springtime. There are so many gorgeous blooming trees and shrubs and bursting spring bulbs everywhere. Tuscany has no shortage of busy birds. I've seen a couple broods of ducklings with their protective mother ducks swimming through the reeds in the canals in mom's neighborhood park. I've also enjoyed many signs of spring back home. The Seattle temple grounds are filled with a splendid array of colorful tulips. One evening after leaving the temple, my husband and I saw the most spectacular rainbow. Whether in Boise or Seattle, each sign of spring reminds me that the Lord created the earth and the seasons for us to appreciate the simple joys of nature, to recognize the signs and wonders of new life and to assurance us that He is there. 

"...all things denote there is a God; yea, even the earth, and all things that are upon the face of it...do witness that there is a Supreme Creator." Alma 30:44 

Amidst the worries and sorrows, I'm so grateful for the simple joys in life. 

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