Tuesday, July 21

Things have been nearly back to normal here. Aside from trips to the pharmacy more regularly than before, we're doing pretty much what we were used to doing. Justin and Allison came to visit for the weekend. We all went to Jack and John Jenkins' 50th birthday party on Saturday evening. In lieu of gifts they were asking that donation be made to the Mary Babb Randolph Cancer Center. They also had some drawings and raffled off some really nice gift baskets. Overall, they raised over $4,000! It was a wonderful thing to be a part of, and as I mentioned before, keep John and Aunt Betty in your prayers as he continues his battle with cancer.

Mom has been feeling absolutely wonderful! This evening we had wonderful meal of roast beef, hash brown casserole, and blackberry cobbler from Linda Britton. Thank you! (Linda, if you're reading this, Mom said she would like to have the recipe for the casserole.) Because of all the eating we've been doing, Mom decided she wanted to go on a walk this evening. So, Dad, Mom, Axle, Karley, and I all took a walk. We were on our way back when we heard Axle barking... In case you're not familiar with Axle, he loves to run and LOVES to chase anything that will run. This evening he had his fifth encounter with a skunk. We've gotten so accustomed to him getting sprayed that it's hardly worth telling about anymore; however, I have learned a home remedy of mixing baking soda, peroxide, and Dawn detergent. It doesn't completely remove the smell, but it makes it bearable to be in the same room as him. Although, skunk isn't nearly as bad as the dead fish incident I referred to in a much earlier post.

We're being very well taken care of from our friends and family. We do appreciate all that you're doing. Cards continue to fill the mailbox every day. Yesterday we received one from Stevie Bayles who is in Ireland on vacation! It's been such a blessing to see the outpouring of concern and love from everyone!