Living The Dream

It was foggy and raining the last morning we rode side-by-sides in South Dakota last week. By the time we stopped in Lead for fuel, then through Deadwood, and 13 miles north on Hwy 14A to Camp 5, it was raining steady. We were all wet. When arriving at the trailhead at the base of  one of the Black Hills, Jan heard a grandchild say, "Wow, this is living the dream".

But first things first. A week ago yesterday close to 40 of our immediate family headed to South Dakota to Cody and Tori's wedding. It was held in RiverTree Church in Mitchell. After a honeymoon, Tori starts her job as a Registered Nurse in Sioux Falls. Cody works at Fareway in Sioux Falls and continues his education as a Physical Therapist.

A week ago this morning, with Ethan driving the semi, and many cousins waiting their turn to ride with him, we left Mitchell and headed for the Black Hills. Thanks for the picture Stacy.

Our rented home for the week fit all of us comfortably. It was in a newer development just north of Lead. The name of the home was Diamond in the Rough.

Becky or one of the girls would usually get the four coffee pots ready the night before. And I would turn them all on early the following morning.

After a delicious breakfast ranging from eggs, pancakes, ham, sausage, or bacon, fruit, and cinnamon rolls, 40 sandwiches, a whole box of assorted chips, and a large cooler of drinks were prepared for the noon meal on the trails.

The boys would make a plan and destination for the day. We rode close to 200 miles of roads, trails, and paths within a 50 mile radius of where we stayed. We'd stop for lunch anywhere from an old cemetery, to along a creek, lake, or waterfall. And yes, the younger kids would inevitably jump in and get wet in 50 degree water.

After a large supper, we would all get together for devotions. One evening everyone was asked what one word they would like, or set a goal for, to describe themselves. Words ranged from, available, genuine, caring, attentive, rooted, to faithful, present, warm-hearted, etc.

Another evening I read from Proverbs 30 where the author shares he is weary. And asks God for not too much, or he will become proud, or not too little, that he might steal. I shared that after my diagnosis, I was at peace, and had asked God that He be honored, no matter what the outcome. Then 10 days later my wife Jan was diagnosed with a brain tumor. And I said, "Wait a minute God. What's the deal?" It always hurts more when someone you love is sick.

On the final night Mark read from II Corinthians 12 where the apostle Paul asks God three times to remove the thorn in his flesh. God answered Paul by telling him that His grace is all Paul needs. Mark asked Brian to read a devotion that talked about how God's power works best in our weakness. If I'm able to write next week we'll talk about handling weakness. And receiving help rather than giving it. Six year old Lane is holding eight week old Rosie after devotions.

After devotions the middle age cousins would play poker, while the younger cousins played UNO. Us adults would either join in, read, or visit.

Does God communicate with us in nature? Yes. In scripture and prayer? Obviously. With nudges? Yes from experience. Does He communicate with us in hardships? Absolutely. 

Living the dream is celebrating the past and anticipating the future. Living the dream in the midst of hardship requires gratitude. 

My friends in Israel have a Hebrew saying: Dayenu (die-ea-new). It means, "If there is nothing else, It is enough". It reminds us that we are forever grateful for the opportunities we have already been given.

Jan and I are celebrating the past, enjoying each others' company now in the present, and yes, we are both anticipating the future. Thanks to so many of you that are encouraging us in both spoken and written words, and with your prayers. The prayers and caring are truly felt.

A bit of an update: Jan is anticipating a more detailed MRI soon, and then hopefully an appointment with a brain surgeon either in Des Moines or Iowa City. I am scheduled for colon surgery tomorrow morning in Oskaloosa.