"Wherefore, whoso believeth in God might with surety hope for a better world, yea, even a place at the right hand of God, which hope cometh of faith, maketh and anchor to the souls of men, which would make them sure and steadfast, always abounding in good works, being led to glorify God." Ether 12:4

Sunday, October 18, 2009

One Year Later.....

A year ago today, we were all sitting in a hospital in Salt Lake holding hands and saying prayers, coming to grips with the news received the night before. Dad had terminal gall bladder cancer and was given 2-4 months to live.

Now a year later, what a life we have lived. We've experienced and accomplished more in a year than many do in a lifetime. While it has been a different journey for each of us, we have all grown stronger and closer to the resolve of an eternal family. Terminal Cancer brings into sharp perspective the things that matter most. Some items still remain to be checked off on the bucket list, but most are done and for that we are thankful. Thank you to all who have participated in any way in our lives, whether through visits and calls, or prayers and fasting. It has all made a difference.

Surely the Lord will never, no never forsake us. We have been sustained by His almighty hand. We all agree that the time is drawing near, but no one thought Dad would still be with us today. We look forward to what the days and weeks ahead will bring.

In celebration, we spent the day on Strawberry Reservoir with the family fishing with Karl. It has been a while since we all went fishing. Mom and Nichole obliged and had a great day. The weather was beautiful and the fishing was great. We caught 26 fish during the morning we were there. Thanks Karl for being a great guide and friend!








Dad is still losing weight, but is in great spirits. He's down to 130 lbs, and continues to make his homemade slushies and slurpees, which are quite tasty. He sleeps in till about 10 am and then takes a nap in the afternoon. He welcomes visitors and is anxious to give long extended hugs. We would love to have you stop by, just be sure to call first.

The council he's given is still in play. This life is about relationships. Relationships with your spouse, your children, your grandchildren, your friends, your neighbors, and your God. Every day matters in how you build each one. Be a builder!

10 comments:

Amy said...

Congratulations on the year mark!!! I was thinking about all of you yesterday :) I'm glad you got to go fishing and enjoy the day together. I love and miss you all! I hope you continue to enjoy each day together!

By the way I would love your slushee and slurpee recipe :)

Anonymous said...

Amy-
the big secret is simple, equal amounts!
Put your ice cubes in a blender, then just cover with ANY flavored liquid. ANY liquid tried has measured up. My favorite is Welche's Strawberry Mango Splash Juice (available at most grocery stores and COSTCO), mixed as per above. I have some more advanced recipes I would be happy to share via email.

Zeann said...

And the blessing continue to roll to you and from you. You have been such an inspiration this year, such an example of faith, fortitude, and love. Love you Losers

Go Karl!!!!

Barbara Jackson said...

We thought about you fishing so early in the morning. All we can say is BURR!!!!!!!!!!!!! Rick, you going to add a little fish to your slurpee this week?

oxoxoxoxoxoxo

Ned and Barbara

partypatt said...

Thank you for the update, and congratulations on making the one year mark! That's a great accomplishment and is very telling of your family's determination and yours as well. I hope you are still having fun. You are an inspiratio to all...may the Lord bless you!

Jacki Wilson said...

We're happy to know you like visitors. We're not very good at "going visiting," but once we're there we love it and can't figure out why we don't do it more often. Hugh is in California right now visiting two daughters. When he comes back, we will call to make an appointment.

Leslie Scoresby said...

We also thought about you all day on Saturday and what was happening last year. Heavenly Father has truly blessed us all as He has allowed you to stay here to celebrate life with each of us. We will see you soon. And we love you!

David Petersen said...

Rick,
We loved being with you and Michelle last night at the Johnson's. You still have your sense of humor, that's for sure. You are a walking testament that prayers are heard and answered, tender mercies extended and that Heavenly Father is mindful of each and every one of his children. We love you and hope to be able to spend more time with you!
P.S. Michelle, the pie you made was out of this world. Thanks!

mary jane said...

Hey guys, What a fun evening that was. Thanks for taking the time out of your day to come and spend the evening with us. You guys are awesome. As soon as I make these Roy's souffles (and if they work) we will be out for a taste test.

Love ya! MJ

Zeann said...

Bishop and family, lovin you, and prayin for you all. Thank you for all your influence in my home and to my family. Thank you for sharing your beautiful testimony with us. Love you