As many of you know, my husband has been fighting pancreatic cancer since February this year. He went through 12 rounds of chemo valiantly; then 5 radiation treatments. But the cancer is still spreading and has metastasized to his liver. The doctor gives him 6-8 months maximum to live.
He is failing quickly, and all my time is now dedicated to caring for him. I am sure my soft hugs will be sporadic for a while. Keep watching and reach out any time. I will do my best to send you a hug or two.
Here are the hugs I have this month …
S - Scripture
My tip this holiday season is to be a Mary, instead of a Martha. Resist the temptation to be so busy and enjoy Jesus!
Luke 10:41-42 The Message (MSG)
The Master said, “Martha, dear Martha, you’re fussing far too much and getting yourself worked up over nothing. One thing only is essential, and Mary has chosen it—it’s the main course, and won’t be taken from her.”
O - Oasis
Tim Janis has developed some of the most stunning and relaxing music videos. This Relaxing Christmas video will be an oasis for you during the holidays.
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F - Funny
The Mighty is another wonderful forum that offers fun and information. I loved this meme that says, “When you want to decorate for the holidays but you just don’t have the energy.”
T - Tips
The Fibromyalgia Bloggers Directory has many posts from various Chronic Pain Warriors on “Coping with the Holidays.” Click this button to check them out.
H - something Heard
I interviewed with three different chronic pain podcasts this fall. You might enjoy following them.
In the Seams by Broken and Mended
Fibromyalgia Podcast with Tami Stackelhouse
U - Update
I am working with the illustrator to finalize the illustrations for Holly the Holstein’s Farm Friends. I really wanted to have this available for Christmas but it’s not happening. (Unless someone offers to format and upload the illustrations.)
I have change the goal for publishing to January 11 which is National Milk Day.
I have a few publishers I want to contact about publishing From Dissonance to Harmony _ A Devotional Journey with Chronic Pain. But that is going slow as well.
G - Great Conference Opportunities
Diamonds Conference Winter Event will be January 24-26, 2025. But registration is open now. It is free when you watch it live.
Tami Stackelhouse has an event coming up in January, too. Learn more about that when you listen to her podcast. (Listed above)
S - Song
Here’s a song some dear friends shared with us not long ago. We loved it and it is on my daily playlist. It’s not Christmas, but it is an awesome song. You’ve Already Won by Shane & Shane
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God Bless and Merry Christmas,
Mandy
Love your suggestions!
Yes please give your time to caring for Michael and yourself. We understand that updates and writing will be slow. So many love you and are praying for you. May the Lord cover you with His comfort and strength for each moment.