Yesterday was a day of decline for Mom.  We noticed some changes in her breathing and responsiveness throughout the day, so it wasn't a complete surprise when the hospice nurse/case manager told us that Mom needed to receive continuous care from a nurse.  If you're unfamiliar with hospice, this typically means that the end of life is near.  All of our family gathered at Mom's bedside and had a sweet time of prayer, and each of us have had an opportunity to tell her how much we love her and how precious she is to us.  We all spent the evening together and are grateful to be able to be present with each other during these difficult hours of waiting.  The nurse has been wonderful throughout the night, addressing any changes and making sure Mom is comfortable.

Even in the midst of our grief, we can see the goodness of God.  The nurse He sent to be Mom's case manager was introduced to us at church about two years ago.  Misty cared so beautifully for Dani as her home health nurse after her two brain surgeries. When we found out we were going to need hospice care for Mom, I contacted Misty to see who she would recommend and found out she had switched from home health to hospice care.  She agreed to care for Mom and has been present with our family as Mom has declined.  Yesterday, when the decision was made to move to 24 hour care and the realization of the end of Mom's life was evident, Misty bowed with us and prayed for God to strengthen, guide us, and give us peace as we entered this difficult time.  We feel so blessed and awed at the way God has woven people like Misty into our lives at the perfect time. 

He's also blessed us with support at the perfect times.  The right amount of food has arrived at the perfect time.  Needed paper goods were dropped off prior to a trip to the store.  Visitors, calls, and texts arrived at times when we needed a little extra support.  He has known our needs even before we do.  God has continually blessed and supported us through this journey thus far.  Even as we know there is still more suffering and sadness ahead, we rest assured that He will continue to provide as just as sweetly and perfectly as He has thus far.  

Please continue to pray.  Specifically, please pray for ...

*comfort for Mom as her journey here comes to an end
*peace and strength as we let her go
*wisdom as we make decisions in the days ahead

We feel your prayers.  We want you to know that God is hearing your prayers.  We know that the strength we've had on the journey thus far has only come from God.  He alone deserves the glory for His provision of strength, and we praise Him for this gift.  We praise Him for all of you and continue to be so grateful for the ways you are supporting our family through prayer.