12/22/17 Merry Christmas to all!

Dear Friends and Family,

‘Twas three days before Christmas and all through my home, just two bunnies are stirring as I’m writing this tome.  The stockings were hung on our mantel by me, though Jericho’s is so full, it is under our tree.  Daniel and Steve are snug in their beds, while I’m wide awake from my chemo meds. 

Though I am not wearing a kerchief or cap, the neuropathy in my fingers burns with each key I tap.  My oncologist’s words in my mind are a clatter, it is time that I tell you just what is the matter.

It seems when we stop my drugs for a flash, the cancer roars back as if in a mad dash.  So chemo continues indefinitely, as we pray for the research to bring new discoveries. 

But though I am sad and sometimes feel fear, Christmas reminds me that Jesus is near.  The babe in that manger was not St. Nick, He was God’s precious gift to the well and the sick. 

To show us God’s love is the reason He came, and to invite us to know Him, He calls us by name. 

You who are hungry, or homeless, or lost, come out of the darkness, the cold and the frost.  He knows all your suffering, sadness, and loss, and was thinking of you when He died on the cross. 

In Him I find peace, and despite sorrow, have joy.  For all of my hope comes from that baby boy. 

So on Him I fix my eyes and by His hands I am led, and each day He reminds me I have nothing to dread.

For though laid in the tomb in His burial clothes, after only three days, by God’s power He arose.

And I, too, one day, when life’s journey is through, will wake to a new life when God’s face I’ll view. 

May you too find hope in this Christmas so bright, cherish each moment, and now I must say goodnight!

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”  Isaiah 9:6

Love,

Gabrielle

In early December, I had the happiest week ever on Maui at the Grand Wailea Hotel for Steve's medical conference.  I look awful in this selfie, but wanted you to see the pretty hotel lobby!

This is Maui Santa reminding us to hang loose this Christmas!

Whether in chilly Seattle or along the shores of Maui, I LOVE my walks with Steve!

My sister, Marti, and her husband, Merle, joined us in Maui, and a great time was had by all.  I can't see well enough to know if Marti's eyes are open or closed in this photo!  Oops!

My dear friend, Joan, on the staff of the Grand Wailea, arranged for us to enjoy a poolside CABANA for all seven days of our trip, since the chemo makes me extra sensitive to too much sun.  How relaxed do I look on this cushy chair with my book by the pool?!  Joan--we love you!

Visions of sugarplums Lappert's hot fudge sundaes are dancing through my head as I post this!

When I got home, Daniel, Renee, and Riley helped me throw a gingerbread decorating party that was truly awesome.  I loved hearing later that the grand prize-winning house was devoured by the winner's dog, and his mischief was apparent as she arrived home and found a peppermint ball stuck to his ear!  Thanks to my dear neighbor, Gina, for loaning me this awesome "tree skirt" Christmas sweater!

As Jericho's godparents, Steve and I love taking him to Sunday School, where last Sunday he was a sheep in the children's nativity play!  He asked me once "What is church?"  I told him that's where we go to learn about God and see our friends.  I asked him on the way home from church, "How is your goldfish, Robby, doing?"  He replied, "He's just swimming around."  Good answer!

For our 35th Anniversary on December 18th, Steve made me this bracelet. The "gift" for the 35th anniversary is coral.  He made me this bracelet out of seven pieces of red coral, and five pieces of blue sea glass, for 7 x 5 = 35 years together.  I am blessed with the most wonderful husband and children, and their love, support, and prayers give me strength daily.  

Sunny donned his special hat to wish you a Merry Christmas too!