Early in the throws of sickness, I analogized Tara’s (and the whole family’s) journey to a race. Tara is a runner (intentional use of present tense) and a fan of running. To the low level that either of us achieved in running, we understand what it means to train and compete. We know that pushing hurts, but if the distance is long enough you eventually catch a second wind.
I think we are catching it. Tara is feeling better each day. Just the thought of being done with chemo is like getting to the top of a long hill. Our legs and lungs were burning but we kept pushing. Now it is down hill for a while. But we won’t let up. We will use this downhill stretch to gain some ground.
We look around at some of the things we necessarily let slide (parenting, house projects, physical fitness, etc.) and we think, “Oh my, we have some work to do.” But it will come and we will try to be patient with the process.
We got started on one project we wanted to do before school started; getting the kids rooms remodeled and switched around. There is excitement in the home as the kids anticipate new wall colors, new arrangement of furniture, and more. It is a great family project where everyone gets to play a part. It is so simple, yet so awesome to be a part of.
We are also trying to get back into shape as a family. I have been taking regular runs with the kids; either with the older 2 who are in cross country or occasionally with the younger ones on bike. But it is now not “a time” that matters to me, rather “the time” with them. Most notably, Tara walked the Spartan 5K this weekend. That was a HUGE accomplishment. Her body was tired (understated) and her time was not impressive to her, but she has now set a marker in the sand and is determined to regain some strength.
Looking back, it is evident that we were sustained through what seemed at the time like an impossible journey. It would be easy now to say “It wasn’t so bad” and “We made it”. But the reality is God sustained us. He kept our feet on a rock and established our steps. During even the worst parts, he gave us joy that was unspeakable.
So we will now take advantage of our second wind while we have it.
Perspectives From The Tree Tops 
Thinking of you both so often! I’m glad Tara’s strength is returning! Sending love to your family!!!
You are in my thoughts and prayers. It was good to read your blog today. I am so overjoyed that you are done with chemo and that you are feeling better and getting stronger. Keep running the race marked out for you. You are doing awesome! Love, Jean Parsley
Sitting here enjoying a beautiful morning and thinking of you all. We are certainly delighted to hear your strength is returning……We are now moved and settling in…boxes, boxes , boxes. We hope to stop by and visit you all soon. Have a wonderful day! Thinking and praying of you. Aunt Barb
So awesome to see the photos! No, never underestimate the journey you have traveled (or are traveling)……you have seen what “light” (even joy) looks like in the midst of the darkest darkness…….and you have come through it, not only having “survived” but I suspect you might actually bring yourselves to say you “thrived” ……. (So to speak)….. Oh, yes….(as I’ve said before) we wouldn’t wish this journey on our worst enemy BUT we know that we are SO much better people for having “had to do this”…… And yeah, when the next steps arrive, get ready for REALLY wishing you didn’t have to “drink this cup”………but, thankfully, our desire to survive is strong enough to step up. Saw you all from a distance Saturday night. Just a moment for some extra prayer!
I just love these pictures. I might return to the blog just to look at them again. Great job ALL OF YOU!
Thanks for sharing photos. Great job Tara! I read this passage this morning and I thought of you guys. You have seen many troubles yet He is your Sustainer, Restorer and Deliverer!
19 Your righteousness, God, reaches to the heavens,
you who have done great things.
Who is like you, God?
20 Though you have made me see troubles,
many and bitter,
you will restore my life again;
from the depths of the earth
you will again bring me up.
21 You will increase my honor
and comfort me once more.
22 I will praise you with the harp
for your faithfulness, my God;
I will sing praise to you with the lyre,
Holy One of Israel.
23 My lips will shout for joy
when I sing praise to you—
I whom you have delivered.
-Psalm 71:19-23