We are moving into phase 2 of our marathon. I (caitie) have gone back to Cleveland, and Emmie has take over being with Mom. I will still be updating the blog even though I am in Cleveland.

Mom seems to be feeling a lot better, every day is a little bit closer to full recovery from the surgery. Right before I left she was able to get her self out of bed from a slightly reclined position. This was a big step! (Being cut straight down your abdomen really takes away your muscle control. Tomorrow (Monday) she will get her staples taken out. One week after that she will begin her Chemo treatments.

She was able to get out for a little bit yesterday and went to lunch with the family. Slowly she is also starting to eat more which is good.

Prayer Requests would be that she continues to heal from her surgery. It would be nice for her to feel almost normal before she begins Chemo. Prayer that the process of taking her staples out is not a painful experience. Prayer that as a family we remember that we are not in control, but God is, and he is good! He has given us many blessing in this journey already, we need to focus on those. He is so good to us! As we celebrate Easter today I am continually reminded of the ultimate gift that God has given us, and the gifts he continues to keep giving us. He has blessed our family greatly. I pray He continues to give Mom the strength she needs, the Spirit to influence those around her, and the Love of Christ will be evident to those around her. We are also praying that she stays away from all Illnesses as she begins her Chemo process, she does not need to be getting sick.

I know a lot of you have been questioning our family calendar and needs. Right now we are trying to figure all of that out, but once I know our needs more I will be sure to let you guys know. I think right now needs that we are going to be having is as Mom has to stay in the hospital over night for days 1 and 2 of her treatment that people might be able to bring meals for the boys and Dad. Other needs would be to help by just keeping Mom company, or taking the boys out. Again I will fill you in as we figure out specifics for their needs.

If we haven't said it before, I'll say it again, we really appreciate all of you! Your prayers can be felt, and I've never been more thankful for it. God is good ALL the time, and All the time God is good! Also, He is Risen, He is Risen Indeed.