Thankful Thursday #19

My life turns on a dime. Sometimes it feels as if the realities of life are taking cues from a roller coaster . . . or maybe a ferris wheel.

Last week I wrote about a baby who wasn't expected to live more than a few days. This week he is still in NICU, but he is still alive and nursing, and doesn't have the predicted genetic disorder. It's a long way way from perfect, but it's an even longer way from certain death. Many people around the world have been praying for this family since the first diagnosis came in several weeks ago. Prayers have been answered, and a family has been given joy.

On Saturday night I learned that a friend from my college days has been diagnosed with stage IV cancer. She's a wonderful person, who has already suffered more than her share of grief. It's hard not to ask "Why?" Her husband is keeping us updated through Caring Bridge, and yesterday I registered with Lotsa Helping Hands to serve her in any way I can. Prayers are requested on her behalf for healing, comfort, and peace, but also for thanksgiving that access to the internet allows us all more connection to help one another.

Monday morning we had to put one of our dogs down. She had surgery in January and had been going downhill since then. Over the weekend she took a significant turn for the worse. She quit eating and began having additional issues. We had a family meeting on Sunday afternoon, and on Monday morning the kids and I took Etta to the vet for her final trip. It was a sad occasion of course, but I am grateful for the love she brought into our lives for more than 12 years. I was so gratified to watch my children handle the process. It is a hard fact of life that the more we love the more we have to lose.

Another trip out of town with my dear husband on Tuesday and Wednesday, and here we are back at Thursday again.

Grief and gratitude. Love and loss. Joy and sorrow. All part of the gift of life.

link up at Women Taking a Stand