The Journey

The Journey Continues

2009-10-29T22:48:00.000-07:00

The journey really does continue. Just wanted to let you know this site has continued/moved as well! Anything I post from now on will be at www.theadventurecontinued.blogspot.com. It is mostly still pictures:-) and a few verbal updates on what has been going on!

The Rest July and some of August.

2009-08-06T01:15:00.000-07:00

The trip to the Northeast was the last in the line-up and I have been home since. Did some catching up with school and finished my summer semester by July 31. What a relief! This Fall I will be taking a Health Assessment class which includes a lot of the reasons I want to be a CNS (Clinical Nurse Specialist) vs a NP (Nurse Practitioner so that will be a bit of a challenge. It includes 12o clinical hours which a doctor at church has graciously agreed to do with me! I actually created a website discussing the differences in the roles. The CNS has much more of a teaching and hospital based emphasis - http://cnsandnpdebate.weebly.com/. I am just going to have to power through. Speaking of websites though if you have not seen Abigail and Olivia lately you should check out the photos on Lynn's site at http://thecaliforniasmiths.blogspot.com/!
I plan on working at KU again in the learning lab and this time I will be teaching health assessment techniques to bachelors nursing students. Hopefully the two classes will compliment each other! Until then I am just enjoying the summer. Some of the past few weeks highlights were:Having dinner with Dee and Cheryl and playing with their precious ones (Adam above being some sort of monster) Emma and Riley!

Baseball games with the Royals and White Sox - the last of this season for those two at home!
Canoeing at Shawnee Mission Park with Adam's friend from work whose name is Adam and his wife Laura
The Fray concert - Adam took me for a surprise date. (AKA I like them and he was making me happy by taking me:-) )
Yolanda coming in town. Sarah broke her foot so she wasn't able to make it. We went to the zoo, made whiskey cake from the whiskey Adam had received as a groomsman gift at the wedding, went to Theater in the Park and saw the wedding singer (we don't recommend it), and a tour of the local brewery - Boulevard Brewery!

Dinner out to celebrate the end of the semester. Sushi, yes I am one of those pseudo vegetarians that loves sushi!
And then for my birthday weekend we went to Oceans of Fun which is a water park and had a blast. Afterwards Adam cooked me dinner - a recipe that his brother created. Yummy again!

And since I am working nights I will leave you with a 1/2 and 1/2 tower taken at Perkins. I have been working a lot of nights lately so we have been eating breakfast for dinner...My favorite meal!

Home Sweet Home

2009-08-06T00:48:00.000-07:00

So it was home again to work over 4th of July and write a few papers (are we seeing a pattern here?) and then off to Adam's home sweet home - Pennsylvania! We started in Philadelphia with his brother. Adam is above with his brother's cat. I made everyone take a picture in front of the Liberty Bell:-) We visited Independence Hall and some of the historic buildings around Philadelphia. One of the most interesting, and a bit strange was magic garden which was created by an independent artist over years with pieces of pottery, glass clay, wood etc. (http://www.phillymagicgardens.org/about/general-information) The mosaic took incredible patience and a little bit of insanity! From there we went to a Phillies b-ball game. They didn't win but the stadium was packed! While we were there Adam's brother created a NINE course brunch for us which was delicious. He is a chef so had thought of some crazy wonderful creations like salmon and bulgar wheat sushi, carrot sausage, french toast bread pudding with almonds and black cherries, toasted white chocolate, fruit with bee pollen and tarragon....I could go on but needless to say it was wonderful! Rob lives near the famous 'Rocky' steps and although we did not have time to go to the art museum, we walked around the outside and got a great view of I think Main St.

We took the train from Phillie and traveled to Hershey where Adam's parents live. We went to Chocolate World of course complete with singing cows saying how sweet the milk is, we road rides at Hershey Park, walked around a butterfly house, visited with his family and spent some time at Hershey Hotel. I am not sure that I could ever afford to stay there but it was beautiful!

The view from Hershey Hotel!

From there we took Adam's parent's car to Ithica, NY to attend a wedding of one of Adam's good friends from college. The drive was so pretty and reminded me a lot of Nashville with the rolling hills. Adams friends were so fun and welcoming and I had a great time seeing the campus where he studied and getting to visit some of the gorges that Ithica is famous for. We enjoyed beautiful sunsets and stayed with Adam's friend Joey who is a southern boy who has been up north for the past 8 years. He made me feel right at home with his accent and we were able to run some of the trails while Adam was hanging out with the guys. They played Wiffle Ball at the reception and Adam and I danced. I still love to dance!

Colorado Reunion 2009

2009-08-06T00:44:00.000-07:00

After Nashville it was back to KC for a few days to write some papers and work. Then off to the Reno Family reunion. I flew to Denver and then took the 4 hour fabulous drive over the mountains to Gunnison. I came at the beginning of the reunion to catch as many Renos as I could. There were a ton of kids of course, lots of game playing and walks in the cool mountain air. One of the highlights was a day at the Blue Mesa Reservoir. All of the kids had fun paddling around in the rafts that Ter Bear had bought. It was another great trip, too short, but great to see the crew all together again!

Nashville Summer 2009

2009-08-06T00:14:00.000-07:00

I went home to work at the VA and then was on the road again....this time to Nashville. Mom was in Nashville for a bit to visit with her mom so I went for a few days to see her again and visit some friends. Betsie, Stephanie, Becky, Emily Ann, Vanette, Mau Mau, Aunt Leslie, Melissa.....to name a few. Melissa who is Marcelle's sister spent the summer taking care of our Mau Mau and did a great job! Mau Mau is 93 and the most lovely resident of Richland Place!

When I came back from Nashville Adam had lunch ready for me. And then an evening out shopping!

The Rest of Califonia Summer 2009

2009-08-06T00:09:00.000-07:00

We spent the night after the winery at my grandparents and then headed the next day to Point Reyes National Seashore, only one of my favorite places in the world. We again had a clear, sunny day, saw and smelled lots of sea lions and visited the light house. Adam and I braved the cold water but only for a few moments before getting out to lay in the sun!

Adam had to get back to work and I stayed in California with the family. I spent time at the grandparents and we celebrated their wedding anniversary with chocolate ice cream, only their favorite food in the world!

It was good to get to spend more time with the Smiths, Gail and my mom. Abigail is a ton of fun and definitely has a personality all of her own! We got to visit with Abigail and Mary Jane who have moved to Sacramento. We sure do miss them! The Kibres and Aunt Helen and Uncle Norm also came to visit which was so fun!

I started online summer classes while I was in CA which was interesting. I have sworn off summer classes but I am not sure that I will be able to actually keep that promise to myself:-) I do want to finish school sometime.

On to the Winery

2009-08-05T15:42:00.000-07:00

After visiting with my family Adam and I headed to Napa Valley/Sonoma to check out a winery. You can see that Olivia was not happy to see us go - (I love this picture!). We again had beautiful weather and good food. They fried lemons to put on our lemon and shrimp pizza. Yummy again! We brought a bottle home to share with our friends Molly and Adam.

California Dreaming

2009-08-05T08:12:00.001-07:00

With the semester over it was time for me to head to California to see my family. There was a new addition making it especially crucial -Olivia Smith was born the end of May and is a precious addition. Gail was finishing her first year at college which was more of a challenge since she broke her foot/ankle in a trampolining accident. Her friends had been a great help getting around campus and even bought a carrier so they could bike her to go with them. Gail also has a significant other in her life right now - Ben. I thought he might be interested the way he acted when I visited in January and I was right. He has been a great source of friendship and support for Gail and we like him!

Adam come to meet my family for the first time and since my mom was in town to meet Olivia it was great to have everyone in the same place (minus dad) for a little bit! Abigail really missed her Nanni ( my mom) after having a constant playmate for a month. I know the feeling was mutual. We spend an afternoon at the park and just hauled Gail there in the little red wagon!

Meet Olivia!
Dad had read about the world's best Barbecue place that was located in Oakland, CA. Adam and I picked it up on the way back from San Fran. I passed on the meat but it was a hit with the rest of the clan!
The three girls were happy to be together and to have our mommy in the country!
The whole clan minus mom who could not stop taking pictures:-)
Gail and her newly found mothering skills. It has been great for her to live so close to Lynn and the grandparents. Currently (August 2009) she is in Bangladesh visiting my parents but she spent the beginning of the summer helping Lynn and the grandparents. There was still a lot of recovering to be done to recuperate her foot.

Adam and I spent a night with my cousin in San Fran. We went running on the beach in the morning and ate clam chowder in sourdough bread bowls at Fisherman's Warf. It was a beautiful day to be on the Golden Gate Bridge and you could see everything in the city. It was wonderful to get to see my cousin. Lots of things have changed for her life as well and we did a lot of talking! She still loves being in San Francisco!

I love my cousin!

Adam and I visited Ghiredelli Square and had one of the best fruit sundaes every created. We sure do like to eat

I often am asked questions about Adam. One of the most frequent is " Is he really mature?" I guess because he is younger than me and I have had some different life experiences it is a question so yes he is mature but I also taught him the fish face above:-) We are in a serious relationship and prayerfully considering the future. There are many questions, uncertainties and unknowns but we do know that we love being together. We make each other laugh and are able to cry and rejoice with one another. It is another part of the journey. It is a bit more complicated having been married before but has been a blessing! If you are still praying for me, you can add prayers about our future to the list!

Golf Tournament and More Visitors

2009-08-05T07:44:00.000-07:00

To kick off the spring we made the inaugural trip to the lake. It was Adam's first time on a boat and skiing. Adam's best friend from High School and before came in town and we were able to teach both how to ski! The Millers are so generous to let us come with them on the boat and jet skis which we all love. Molly even let Adam take her out on the jet skis which are able to go 60+ miles an hour!

Mike learned how to ski and although I don't have any pictures of Mike or Adam up on skis it did happen. My camera battery stopped working but I will get some later in the summer!

We went bowling one night and I am yet to break 100. Adam and Mike on the other hand had no problem with that. I did plenty of kidding since they showed up in matching colored shirts. Ends up they both had picked out the same color and neither wanted to change:-)
For the end of my semester Adam and I went out to dinner. It was a different kind of semester as I learned to juggle work and school and I was quite glad that it was over. Summer school was right around the corner!
May also brought great kite weather. We did as many outdoor activities as possible with the kids in addition to tutoring since they were all restless. The program is as much about relationship building as it is about studies.
This year's golf tournament was on Will's birthday. It was a beautiful, cool day to be on the golf course. What a contrast to last year with the 100 degree heat. We work jackets and long pants. You can see some of our awesome swings:-) Emily Ann being a faithful friend came in for her fourth annual tournament. I would like to say that we were better this year but we continue to fight for our consistent last place award. Karilee was our fourth player and she had the best form. Rarely could we get the ball to go where we wanted. There was a lot of laughing and a lot of just picking up the ball and walking!

Was a great day! Two thumbs up!!
Since all of the Renos had come in town for Will's birthday, death anniversary and golf tournament we decided to head to see a Royals game. The White Sox were not playing this time but Adam just loves to watch baseball and I love to be outside with people so it was a good match!
Here are most of the nieces and nephews. I think I have 18 now and there has not been an addition for a while on the Reno side. My sister Lynn though has added one to the Smith/Schroeder/Reno clan who you will see later!
For Memorial Day weekend Adam and I headed downtown to crown center for bluegrass music, a light show and fireworks! They were so beautiful and great music. The KC symphony played the 1812 overture and used real cannons for the sixteen cannon shots. They were really cool if you can make out the shape of the one Adam is sitting on.

Visitors and Home Maintainence

2009-08-05T07:26:00.001-07:00

April and May brought lots of fun visitors to Kansas City. First was my best friend from college Becky/Rebekah, who of course we had to take to play Lazar tag. The place was located near the caves in Missouri. Adam got the high score mostly but once I lucked out. Either way we all had a blast!

Adam plays the violin in the civic orchestra in Kansas City and had a concert while Becky was here so she was able to hear him play. My sister-in-law Susie also was able to come so it made for a fun Sunday afternoon outing. Becky came to tutoring with me which was a great help as she could just listen to the girls read. We mainly just hung out and ate some good gluten free food but in true college fashion we dyed Becky's hair and cut it. I love dying hair! We went one evening to Skies which is the rotating restaurant in Kansas City. It was night by the time we took this picture so you will just have to believe that it has a great view!
In between visits Adam took me to a Mongolian barbecue place near KU. It is a smaller scale version of BD's but was just good food:-)
Shortly after Becky came, Adam's parents Liz and Bob came in from Pennsylvania. They live in Hershey AKA chocolate town. We went to my first Indy car race and though I did have to wear ear plugs I thought it was really fun!

We took an afternoon to walk around Powell Gardens in Missouri. There were beautiful birds, orchids and trails to spend the day just walking. I love birds and Adam loves orchids so it was a good way to share the day with his parents. We cooked cheese fondue one night with the fondue pot Adam got for Christmas. It turned out delicious and we have used the pot several times since to make chocolate covered strawberries. Yummy!

In between visitors a lot of time was spent writing papers for school and doing various odd jobs around the house. Adam and I painted the room upstairs that had a huge tree painted on the walls and I learned that pressure washing a deck and fence is for someone much stronger than me! Man was a I sore. I ended up paying someone to repaint the trim, stain the deck and fence, fix wood rot and then I was ready to put the house on the market with a Realtor. Currently Prudential is managing the sales and I am just waiting for someone to buy my house. I would like to stay in Kansas City but move out of the suburbs to more downtown where many of my activities are. I have 2 or more years left at school and I would like to finish that before moving to another city but who knows what life will bring! Adam and I have found out that we enjoy running together. Below is a picture of us at a Jay Doc (KU med center) race to benefit their free clinic. While Adam's parents were here we ran a 4 mile race and this was a 3 mile which Adam ran really well in both. I feel blessed to have such a great guy in my life and be able to share so many interests with one another!
One of Adam's main interests revolves around baseball. The White Sox are his team and they were frequently in Kansas City allowing us plenty of baseball time. I still know little to nothing about baseball but enjoy the game, I enjoy it most if we are able to sit close to the field!
For the end of the year party where I tutor two 2cnd gradersm we took our kids to the children's petting zoo near Olathe. They were hilarious with all of the animals! Scared and excited, I think we ran the whole time!

May brought some cool weather and a great time to prepare for the Annual Will Reno memorial golf tournament. I cut my hair to surprise Adam (I now have had 2 serious relationships, marriage with Will and now Adam where the guys prefer short hair, go figure:-) and then we spent the evening shooting golf balls at the driving range. Adam was able to hit it 12xs as far as me but neither of us with any sort of direction!It was a fun time and made us as prepared as we were going to be for the golf tournament!

Through Easter

2009-08-05T07:09:00.001-07:00

So if you are continuing to check this blog it means I probably just told you that I updated it or you are forever optimistic that I would get around to it! I remember an old friend used to have a round shaped hot pad that said "Round Tuit" and it was so she could do all the things she said that she would do when she got a 'round tuit.' Maybe I need one of those now!
After Spring Break we all headed back to Kansas City. A late snow met us not too long after we returned. It was warm so Adam and I took advantage of it and went out for a Sunday afternoon walk. There was steam coming off the ground and snow melting all around. Above is one of my favorite pictures of Adam in front of one of the many bridges on the trails behind my house. Through the semester we continued to go to the shelter once a month for Saturday morning recreation and just play with the kids. We had some regular helpers like Abby and Mary Jane below....

The kids love when you pay special attention to them. Adam was teaching a few of the little girls how to hit the pool balls and you could just see there faces light up from the individual positive attention this grown-up guy was giving them!
Kalie below works full-time at the mission. I have been tutoring there once a week and have found her a joy to be around and serve with.

For Easter Adam and I decided to have some friends over for brunch after Church. We made his family tradition of nut and poppy seed rolls which was labor intensive but beautiful when finished! Everyone brought something for brunch and I was able to get people to color Easter eggs with me!

Mary Jane may be interested in the eggs more next year!

Another one of Adam and my cooking explorations was homemade pizza, we don't cook often but think it turns out pretty good when we do:-)
Since I have traveled back and forth to Indian we decided to have an Indian food night at my house where we made dahl and rice, chicken curry, vegetable curry, cucumber salad and of course rice. Here are some of our friends John and Katy who will have to come next time since they love Indian food!
Tom and Elly were able to make it before moving to Chicago. We miss you guys!

Molly and Adam and then Crick and Kim. Molly and Adam are still her but Crick and Kim are starting a residency at Wake Forest.

Rosho Gula to round out the evening with dessert. I was the only one who ate with my hands but we all sat on the floor. Made for a fun evening. Even John and Linda thought the food was tasty! Crick tried to put on a Lungie and I let him keep it to use at home.

Spring break!!

2009-04-02T16:44:00.001-07:00

Since I have returned to school I was able to go on Spring Break this year! It was great! Karilee and I went on Thursday to CO Springs and were able to visit with Will's oldest brother Ron and his family and spend some time at Focus on the Family where Ron works. It was really meaningful to get to meet people who had prayed for Will and I and those who are continuing to pray for us. Adam met us the next day and we drove to Denver to meet up with some of his Cornell buddies. We had a yummy meal at the Cheesecake factory before heading out to the mountains to see Gail and Terri and their families! We spent the next day just hanging out with the McCrerys and Dillinghams and their nine kids. There is always something to do! We went to the hot springs and enjoyed the natural hot tub:-)
The next day Adam, Karilee, and I drove to Monarch ski resort to try our hand at snow sports. It was Adam and Karilee's first time in a long time to ski so I decided to try skiing for the first time in 12 years. I have been snowboarding for a long time I guess! They did great and Adam was ready to head to the green slopes after an hour which was OK with me. We were on blues by the end of the day. I think he had the skiing bug bite him while we were there which means there might be another trip next year!

We left a day early because of the predicted snow. Ends up they did get 2-4 inches which since we had a V-4 Mazda we would not have made it over the pass. It again was a great time to spend with family and friends and I am looking forward to the crew coming out in May!!

Valentines Day

2009-04-02T16:35:00.001-07:00

In February the snow continued to fall, although we have had a more mild winter than I have ever experienced in KC, and my best friend Betsie came from Nashville to see me! We cooked Valentine's Dinner together and used my Mau Mau's china for the first time since I moved to KC which was really special. The crystal makes everything look fancy! Adam played in a concert and it was beautiful! He is a talented violin player (among other instruments) and it is a joy to hear him play. We met friends on Friday to have dinner and drinks at Sky's restaurant which rotates and is a great way to watch Kansas City go by!

Transition again into KC

2009-04-02T12:03:00.000-07:00

In January I returned to KC to start my semester. I continued to work part-time at the VA and I started a new position at KU as a teaching assistant to bachelors nursing students in the learning lab. Adam and Molly Dixon and Adam S. continue to be special friends and we are able to just have fun with one another. A friend from work Cheryl had her baby and Jessica and I have loved getting to know Emma June!

Karilee's brother Brian (who was Will's best friend) came in town with his twins and we had fun playing with them!

Adam's company Garmin had a winter formal which felt like going to Prom again and we had a good time getting dressed up and watching all the others who seemed to take this formal thing very seriously! Kim (in picture underneath to the right of me) went to cooking school in Spain and blessed us by making some yummy Paella that she had learned to cook while she was there. I have discovered I am more of a pescaterian then a vegetarian...I do love fish!

City Union Mission continues to be a great place to partner with and be blessed by kids at the shelter and the youth center. As you can see it is not a very serious time
:-) but instead we are able to bless and be blessed! January was full of transitions, some of which I continue to adjust to and learn more about how God grace really is sufficient for today!

January 2009

2009-04-02T11:42:00.001-07:00

Most of the rest of January was spent in California. I was able to visit with my cousin, friends from my first job at the VA, experience Davis with Gail and eat at the Crepe house, spend time on the beach, skiing at Tahoe, sledding near Tahoe, playing games, football and just being together!

The December of change 2008

2009-04-02T11:24:00.000-07:00

In December my dad came to visit in the first of the month. It was great just to be able to do work around the house and have nice dinners. The leaves fell off the trees and we had our first snow! I am not sure that I will ever get used to the fact that everyone drives in the snow. Here is a picture of the VA on one of those days.

Times at the mission have remained an important and meaningful part of life in Kansas City as well as time with friends. Molly and Adam Dixon, and a new friend Adam and I took as much advantage of the cold weather as we were able. I think Adam D. was trying to do an aerial in this picture. Christmas in KC really is a great time to enjoy the city!

With my parents still being in the country I then headed off to CA to spend the Holidays with the family. I had just found out that I was accepted into Graduate School at the University of Kansas (KU) to study to get my masters in Nursing. I consequently went part-time/PRN at the VA which enabled me to spend 3 weeks in CA. As you can see Santa came to visit, Lynn is expecting her second baby, (its a girl) and it was just really wonderful to all be together. Gail is loving her time at Davis and becoming quite the special young lady and Abigail is getting so big!

October and November 2008

2009-04-02T10:47:00.001-07:00

So I just realized it has been a while since I updated this blog so I figured more of a pictorial update would give a quick 'rundown' (as they say in The Office) of what life has been like. In the summer, after participating in a mission trip to Yakama Washington a desire was put in my heart to help those who live closer to my geographical region. I was struck with the reality that you did not have to go far to find people who were hurting and in need. I have had the privilege since sometime in September/October to partner with the City Union Mission in tutoring with children in the community and recreation on Saturdays with kids in the shelter.

It has been rewarding and just fun!

Fall around Kansas is a beautiful time to enjoy the weather and the trees. Around the same time as starting at the mission Karilee moved into the upstairs of my house. She is the little sister of Will's best friend Brian who had taught him how to fly an airplane. This has been an enjoyable albeit at times difficult transition. I thought I would be married so having a roommate just is a new thought but she is so sweet and it has worked out great! Here I am trying to teach Karilee how to use chopsticks:-)

At the end of October Molly (red hair, Abigail, (one with the baby), and Mary Jane (the baby) took a trip to South Carolina. It was a great time just to relax and be with the girls! We had some stormy weather but enjoyed good time on the beach just relaxing and eating some great seafood. Abigail's family was so kind to let us stay at her place and showed us real southern hospitality!

At the end of November Will's family came for their yearly Thanksgiving trip to Kansas City. There were almost 30 of us in the house making it loud and really a wonderful time to be thankful. I still miss Will all the time. I think that will always be a part of who I am.

Nashville in October

2008-11-03T16:59:00.000-08:00

October was a sweet month filled with spending time with family and those who are just like family. Lynn, Abigail, Mom, Dad, and I met in Nashville for Community Bible Church's annual missions conference. Gail was missed as she had to stay in school! We stayed at a close friend house and were able to just hang out. It was the first time many people had see Abigail and she put on the charm!

The Searles had a new edition, Tegan had little Gavin (Stephanie will have to tell me if I got the spelling right) but he looks like he could be in a Gerber commercial! Precious!

I got some play time and smiles!

Abigail was thrilled to be staying at Emily Ann's mom's where Ginger (the dog) lived during the day. It was a highlight of her day to be able to pet and feed the dog. A highlight of my day, besides seeing all of the precious people, was to get to drive the rental car.We all had a blast riding with top down!

Coincidentally and luckily the weekend we were in town was my high school homecoming football game. My cousin was playing in his senior game so we took Mau Mau and watched #44 work his magic. I was able to see people I hadn't seen in 6 years. The track team was an important part of my high school life and I was excited to see the girls on my 4x800 team and one has two kids now. My how life does keep going!

People were so generous to open their homes but sometimes Abigail and Lynn just needed to hide a bit from the crowds:)

Mom was in charge of speaking at the women's brunch and did a great job with a slide show and power point presentation to communicate what she is doing in Bangladesh.

Miss Ruby is one of our dear friends in Nashville. It is truly a joy to be able to sit and talk with her sister and her and hear the tales of their childhood and nursing experiences. If I am half as spry and encouraging as Miss Ruby is when I am in my 90s I will be one happy chick. I guess add my Mau Mau to that list of 1/2 as well as someone is in their 90s. She was a champion and just jumped into whatever we were doing at the time!
Mom's good friends from college Barb and Natalie came for the missions conference to hear her speak. It was good to have the support of so many who have been praying for us all though the years.

This is one of my favorite photos with Mrs. Haver and Mau Mau and then below with Mrs. Ramer. We stayed in Mrs. Ramer's house since she is living in an Altzimers home in Nashville. I don't understand why God has us all age so differently. It was great to be able just to sit and go through some photo albums together.

Cousin Melissa came and of course Abigail chose the 2 1/2 year old favorite toy to play with- the brown box filled with peanuts for packing. Abigail's laugh makes everyone else smile:)

Abigail at the International Market learning how to use chopsticks. She was quite proud of herself!
Mau Mau recently moved to a different apartment where she could have a bit more help if needed. It has worked out really well with most all of the staff being very helpful and kind. I was looking around her place one day thinking "this is about the size of house that I would like to be responsible for cleaning." It is a beautiful facility and comforting to know Mau Mau is being well taken care of. Abigail liked it because there were always plenty of crackers for her to eat!

Abigail liked to 'help' Mau Mau walk. Some friends that had been displaced by hurricane Katrina came to visit. Fran has been a friend of my Aunt's and it is great to have her living in Nashville now. Abigail loved playing with her grand kids the twins and as you can tell we just had wonderful weather.

Always wonderful to spend time with Emily Ann and my roomie from college Becky!

A really special treat was getting to have dinner with Gretch and meet her husband. I felt like we were able to be open and maybe that is a part of having history with one another. It was a sweet time to get to sit and share what life is teaching us in this season.

Stephanie and me in the good old 'camera on top of the other car in the parking lot' shot. You know what I am talking about!
Then it was time to go. Abigail carried her own suitcase like a grown up. Mom and I spent the morning with MauMau and then grabbed some breakfast at a place where you could have gigantic pickles with breakfast. What more could you want! In this season to be thankful I can say that I am most thankful for my family and friends who continue to walk with me and beside me on this journey.

Sun, Sand, and Family

2008-09-30T22:16:00.000-07:00

September brought the beginnings of travel. On the 18th I headed out to California to spend two weeks with my family. Gail was accepted to UC Davis and this was a chance to get to see the beginnings of her life there. We took family photos before she left with all 4 generations and those are what I started these pictures off with.

Here is the college girl and Abigail who we adore! She knows all of our names, knows what she wants and loves to be tickled by her Aunts who pretend like they are the infamous 'Crusher'. We love to make Abigail laugh:)

The 'Crusher' in action!!

Since Will died I feel as though I am a bit back in the family that I grew up in, different last name, different person in some ways, widowed now, but back in the flock in a sense. We decided to take a few pictures of the 4 of us and below are some of what we got!

We spent the Sunday before Gail moved into college at my sister's church. Below is my sweet niece. She looks cute in he Sunday dress and cute teaching the raccoons how to go to the potty like she was learning.

Here are the three sisters before we made the trek to drop Gail off at college. The next step for her new 'American' adult life.

University of California in Davis (UC Davis) is in a town called Davis near Sacramento. The sky is nearly always blue and the grass green due to irrigation. Gail's dorm is a remodeled motel with a middle courtyard equipped with laundry, computer rooms, and of course the college essential - a hot tub and pool! Blow are just some assorted family photos of our campus invasion. Even the grandparents came on one trip making it really a special time!

Below is our family and the Jessica's (Gail's roommate) family. They are town nearby Lynn and although Gail and Jessica are very different (ex. Jess is not into sports) she has been a great roommate for Gail and a sweet friend.

Gail and Jess are below. They share a bedroom and a sink with each other and a bathroom and living room with two other girls. Davis is a very culturally diverse college making Gail feel right at home! We lofted Gail's bed to let her have more room. None of us could believe we were actually moving the baby into college!

Abigail playing in the pool. She thinks college is great!

We had lunch at an Indian/Nepali place. We all enjoyed the curries and lots of good spices.

My Grandma had her 84th birthday while we were visiting! Lynn came in and we went out for lunch with a wonderful family friend, Kathy Dean, who brought her 1940s car named Milly to transport us to lunch. It was a beautiful day in CA to ride with the top down and just celebrate my Grandma's life.

Of course there was plenty of chocolate cake for lunch....

.......and dinner!!!

This is what my dad calls a Will picture ~ taken with one person's arm stretched out. He never understood how Will could take such good photos with one arm:)

Another highlight of the trip was getting to spend a day in the city with Marcelle. There were beautiful sunsets and just a gorgeous day to lay in the park, eat sour frozen yogurt, and talk about life.

We ended up at the beach across from where we used to live and just enjoyed the view and each other. I really had a fantastic day getting to be with my cousin. I am thankful for my family.

After Gail was moved in I kind of enjoyed being the only kid for little bit. Mom, Dad, I spent time just messing around Novato where my grandparents live eating breakfast and spending time around the house.

We took the ferry into the city and just acted like tourists all day. We started off a Fisherman's Wharf eating clam chowder in sourdough bowls and then headed off to Lombard street to walk up the most crooked street in the USA.

It was another beautiful day full of sunshine and lots of walking which my dad was a good sport about. We enjoyed some treats at Ghiradelli Square and then kept on walking:0

We ate some delicious sushi in the city and established that I really am a pescatarian vs a vegetarian.

After two weeks in San Fran it was time to head back to Kansas City for a week of work before heading to have some more family time.

Putting and Skiing

2008-09-28T21:48:00.000-07:00

After returning from Branson our good friend from Nashville Emily Ann came in to play in our Willis P memorial golf tournament. It was a hot day, a really hot day but tons of fun. Molly and Adam came out with all the Renos and friends. Mom, Gail, Emily Ann, and I were on a team and we were terrible but it didn't matter because it was a great day to be outside and to be together!

Look at that swing!

Did I say that it was hot!

The next day a good friend at work had a baby girl named Emma June. She is absolutely beautiful and healthy. Her big brother Riley is a proud sibling!

That afternoon was my 26th birthday and everyone came to the Gardner water park to celebrate. We had dinner and played which made for a great birthday. I of course wish Will was here to celebrate with us. Some of the sweet girls game me a rock star 'build-a-bear' complete with gold shoes and embroidered jeans.

That Sunday was spent on the lake reminding Gail, Emily Ann, and Mom how to ski. Below is the crew at the Miller's lake home.

Mom and Gail were here for almost two weeks and it was a blast. Shortly after they left I had an intruder in the garage who was not scared of me at all. The neighbors got involved and we chased him into the engine of Will's truck. We had to put the truck in neutral and back it out of the garage. Still we could not get the pesky possum out so my next door neighbor was kind enough to scoop him up with a snow shovel and throw the possum into the lawn. I was glad to see him go!

One morning I was watering the plants and there were three of these in the backyard. What a beautiful sight to wake up to! August quickly floated into September and before I knew it fall was on its way, my house is on the market, and I am in California to visit the folks!

Finishing July and the Branson Gang

2008-08-09T22:52:00.001-07:00

Finishing up July brought a bunch of house work in order to get my house ready to go on the market and lots of time outside. Being in the outdoors has to be my favorite pastime and Sonic happy hour was a great invention after any of these days. There is a water park in Gardner, a town south of Olathe. There are water slides and a lazy river. I love the water! Below are some good sports who would go with me. You might recognize Molly, Linda, and Melanie. Linda and her husband have a boat that they are so gracious to take me out week after week. Slaloming is back on the list of favorite water sports!

My Mom and Gail came in town near the end of the month and it was great to have them in town. We got to hand with Molly, Abigail, and Mary Jane. She is getting used to her crazy Aunt Ruth!

Here though is the munchkin who is adored by her real Aunt Ruth! She is a little crazy herself and so adorable!

During Mom and Gail's visit we were able to celebrate Mom's birthday before taking off on a trip to Branson.

The great Branson trip started at a local winery called Oovvda run by a husband and wife team. We were able to sample the different types of wine they had as well as take a tour. They were so patient and open. We got to see some of the fermentation process. It was a blast!

That night we went to the musical production of Noah. It was quite a show but Branson is quite a place so it all seemed to fit! There were animals and the building looked like a mansion. The stage wrapped around the auditorium and animals walked down the aisles!

The next day Mom, Gail, and I found a new way to tour the city in a boat that was capable of floating and driving. It was a blast and we had 'quackers' to make plenty of noise.

In the evening the water from the lake was cool and the air was warm causing steam to rise. It was a beautiful sight. There was a fire and water show that night making a wonderful finale.

The next day was spent on the lake. We rented space on a Catamaran and went to play in the water. There were inflatable climbing toys and a gigantic trampoline. One the way home we stopped at Lambert's and caught some of their rolls:)

HORRAY FOR YAKAMA!

2008-07-10T22:23:00.000-07:00

Meet Jason. He smiles so sweetly but watch out....he is about to run and dive on the concrete. He doesn't cry, he just dusts off and tries the jump again. He lives in White Swan, Washington on an Indian reservation where the life expectancy is 39 years old. Where the infant mortality rate is twice the national average and suicide and abuse are rampant yet for Jason and hundreds of kids just like him it is home. His home. His future is shaky at best but he is just happy someone has come out to play and watch him try the skateboard jumps like the boys he looks up to. He is just a kid who want to be loved and love him we did!

Jason lives on the Yakama Indian reservation that my church Oak Hills Presbyterian visits once year during the summer. We partnered with the Granberrys who serve the Native Indians year round. The group was split into two different groups, one worked roofing and the other on housing rehab. I was in the group that scraped and painted the outside of the home. The girl below name is Coral. She stayed the days with her grandparents Walley and Mitzie in the home we worked on.
Here are Coral and Mitzie and their fun dogs crazy Daisy and Homer as well as the house and the group working together. I love painting and I love being outside!

Above is the finished home:) In the afternoons we would go to a concrete slab with a small basketball court called Todos park. We brought crafts and did skits. We met lots of kids like Jason, lovable and wanting to be loved. Below are photos of the kids, the group playing spoons, and a photo of Coral, her mom Kim, and Mitzie.

On the last day we took a trip to Mt. Rainer. It was cloudy but beautiful and we even got to hike and ride down a small waterfall!

Movies made from out teams week are linked below. I thought it was a great idea to post them on You tube so I could share them with everyone!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Clt7quwYes&feature=related Part 1

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CMyb88Rw0Hk Part 2

I think the most significant development from the week was a renewed desire for me to serve. I am still not sure what that looks like in my life but life is an adventure in a lot of ways.

May and the beginnings of June!

2008-07-10T22:00:00.001-07:00

On May 16th I celebrated Will's birthday with the Reno's. Paul got to blow out the candles and we all went to see Prince Caspian after dinner. My parents were in Nashville visiting so I thought Gail and I could tag a long for the visit. It was so sweet to get caught up on the Nashville crew. For those that I missed I will be back in October!
The Lindes are below. We lived in a rental property they had one summer my parents were back. Great friends and it is fun to see how much the kids have grown. Taller than me of course but also able to have great conversation!

Emily Ann and Mrs Ramer are next. They have been faithful friends as long as I can remember.....

The Elrods have been there through the years...

..and the Havers used to let me walk their dog Ginger and Mrs Ruby kept my bird Alabaster when we were away on trips. They are getting older but are sharp as ever.

Seeing Jill and her new husband was a treat! It had been too long since we had made a connection! (my camera has been taking blurry photos, I will correct that some time in the near future)

We spent an evening at Mau Mau's house with my Aunt Leslie and all of the Beall. Marcelle was the cousin I initially moved to CA with. It was an evening full of laughter!

Betsie and Justin are the greatest. They have bought a home and just made a new edition to their family, Louie the dog.....

...and Becky's family also has a new member. I never thought Becky would look so natural with an infant in her arms. She is a wonderful aunt and I am excited to see how she will spoil him! Congratulations Andrews!

There are some special friends who I didn't get pictures of. Maybe when I deal with the fuzzy photo issue there will be more in October!

Nashville was a time to reconnect with people with whom I have history. Through the summer I am home for about three weeks and then gone the fourth. First CA, then Nashville, and to Washington State. I miss not being in the same state as my family but am so thankful that they are in the same country for this time in life.

The rest of April and May

2008-06-27T20:15:00.001-07:00

The end of April brought my very first Woman's retreat for which I was in charge of games. Everyone seemed to have a good time and we hiked and talked on the grounds for a couple hours after the retreat. It was a great time to spend with all the women of Oak Hills.A friend of mine recently said that it was a sign of emotional wellness if you can feel a couple of emotions at one time. I sure do hope that is true because it feels as though I feel 6 or 7 emotions simultaneously. May was one of the more difficult months being the one year anniversary of Will's death as well as what would have been his 35th birthday. I spent the first weeks of the month in CA with my family which makes me exceedingly happy and sad that Will could not be with us. It was a time for relaxation as well as some good conversation. Abigail got to see he first crab boil and was not too impressed!

We spent a day on the beach. It was a little cool but so fun. You can see that Abigail loves her Nani (grandmother). I miss not being able to watch her grow up. She is a real joy!

We spent Cinco de Mayo listening to a Mariachi band. Gail is doing great as a barista at the local Starbucks. She is enrolled to attend a UC Davis in the fall. I think there will be alot of fun to be had with a little learning:)

Shortly after arriving at home to KC was the anniversary of Will's death. It was a bizarre time to remember all that happened just a year ago. It was a sweet day in so many ways as people were able to remember Will's life with me. I think of Will everyday if not 7 or 8 times a day and to have others with me was sweet.

Two days after Will's death anniversary Abigail (KC friend Abigail) had her baby. They named her MaryJane Ruth, not after me but an excellent name none the less. Molly and I went to see her the day after she was born. Life and death are our only guarantees and I am so thankful

when I get to be a part of life, especially in the case of being married to Will. I would like to live a life with no regrets. I have no regrets, only feelings of blessing, in regards to being able to love Will and having been loved by him. So here's to MaryJane Ruth and her ability to live a life where she walks with Christ and lives without having to look back!

The April Edition

2008-04-06T19:18:00.000-07:00

This is a bit late I acknowledge but it will get the journey caught up through April. It starts in December when I was able to spend the Christmas holidays with my sisters and parents. As you can see Abigail looked precious in her Christmas red dress! It was great to be with family.

Shortly after it was back to good o' Kansas and then to none other than the Caribbean. What a wonderful trip! I was with Rebekah, my best friend from college, and her family for the week. I am not sure that there could have been more perfect weather or better fellowship. It was a good break from the winter weather.

On the way back to KC I stayed the night in Nashville, a long layover and was able to see my 91 year-old Mau Mau, my Mommy, Betsie, the Searles, Selphs, all at CBC, Aunt Les.....

It was great to be with friends. At the end of January my dad came for the week. We mainly did things around the house like cleaning out the basement and addressing letters. Not as many photo opportunities but we did get one at the airport in front of a picture of the famous fountains in KC. Did you know KC was the city of the fountains? Another fun fact :)

In February the whole crew headed out to Tahoe for a skiing trip. Gail's (my little sister) boyfriend came from Scotland and did a really good job on the slopes. The scenery in Tahoe truly is breathtaking.

End of February and March rolled around and I was stationary in KC. One good memory is when my neighbor/friend's kids (who is also my pastor and pastor's wife) and I went to the dog park with Molly's brother's gigantic dog. The dog was much more afraid of the kids then they were of him which we did not expect. They all had a good time rolling around but since it is a dog park we tried to get the kids to stay on two feet. Jane the youngest and Molly and Maggie are in the photos below, you can only see Kate's feet.

In March Molly's husband Adam turned 30. I must be getting older because 30 does not seem that old to me. It was sweet to get to be here to celebrate. They have been such faithful friends to walk through life with me after Will's death.

We really don't grow up in so many ways, hence the group picture complete with bunny ears. Some say loss gets easier as time passes. It seems like in my life it get harder, days turn into weeks into months and I am faced with my loss every day. Will made day-to-day living exciting and fun. Now I have little idea of where and what to do yet. I just keep trucking along. Many of you received a letter with many of my thoughts. I will refrain from being repetitive here.

The next visit come from my mom. She was able to be here the last week of March to the first weeks in April. We were able to spend some time with the Reno's and polish our CLUE skills.

Mom was able to help me host my first baby shower for a friend at church. Lisa is Russ's wife who is my pastor and they live down the street. Their kids went with Molly and I to the dog park. She is below with my mom.

Here is the group, Abigail in the green is the one who is expecting....Will it be a boy or a girl?

This is the 'after party' with Russ, Jane, and Kate. Lucky for me Russ, Lisa, and the kids live 13 houses down and can come visit just for cake!

Mom and I spent a day in downtown KC, Union Station is really interesting to walk around and we were able to check out the the Bodies Reveled exhibit, not recommended for the squeamish but a real testimony to the intricate creation our bodies are. The WWI museum is on the list for the next visitor.

Mom and I ate at Oklahoma Joe's, I motivated by the tasty fries not the BBQ and worked on the beginnings of a t-shirt quilt combining Will and my t-shirts to cover a blanket from my child hood. It is a simple design but I am really excited to see the finished product. Mom graciously took it back to CA with her so Lynn can sew the squares together. I can't wait to see the finished product!

Reasons to be Thankful

2007-12-15T14:02:00.000-08:00

Lynn and Abigail left in November but Gail stayed on in Kansas for the holiday season. She began her re-acclimation to the USA in 50 degree weather and it was down hill from there (in a good way:) Thanksgiving brought Brian, Will's directly older brother, his first completed marathon and Gail's first snow in a long time. It was just a dusting but made everything sparkle. The Colorado Reno's were in for Thanksgiving so we spent most of our time at Alan and Fran's eating and doing puzzles. Jaycee is in the green hat making her cool dude pose.
Despite having an unfortunate bout with the flu, Thanksgiving was a time to be thankful. I am lucky to have be part of a new, very loving family. I am thankful that Will and I were able to be married and that the Lord continues to provide for my needs. I have struggled during the holidays with the seeming unfairness of our short marriage. I still and will continue to struggle with loosing my best friend, but I still have a home, heat, family, friends, can worship freely and I have a job where I am able to make a living. There a many things for which to be grateful.
While Gail was here she learned that art of biking around Olathe. She opened a bank account and established residency in the USA in order to get her driving permit. We took many trips together to the store and my new favorite place: the chiropractor. Seems with all the lifting and pulling done at work I have altered a few connections in my neck, there has not been a noticeable difference yet I am still hoping. Gail became proficient in the little Nissan 300ZX Fran and Alan (my in-laws) loaned us. There were 3 cars in the driveway since my Honda and Will's Toyota are manual. Gail and I figured we would tackle one thing at a time! She took many a 12 hour day while I was at work to study for the SAT II's. Gail did well on the regular SAT's but has her sights set on Berkley so needed a little extra to make them look her way. Maybe I should send them the photo below of our outing to 'Penguin Park' where a homeowner down the street has tuned their yard into a maze of over 40 large inflatable Christmas decorations, most of which are penguins. We did find the army Santa below. The house is overwhelming due to the sheer number of inflatable figures. The second, third, and fourth snow storms where a bit more substantial allowing Gail to make an impressive snowman. We decorated the house in hundreds of flashing colored lights. I used to like the white lights until Will and I began decorating together. His love of color and fast movement have rubbed off on me making our house this year look 'like Vegas' as one close friend pointed out when they first saw the staircase.

The smell of fresh pine and the fireplace were enjoyed through December. Most of our time out was spent visiting down town KC which is really festive during Thanksgiving and Christmas. The Plaza begins it's light display on Nov 22cnd and lasts through January and they have an outdoor ice skating rink which was a blast!

There was one attempt to sled during the second snow which was more like a mudding and ended unfortunately for the below green sled. Gail continued to try to find somewhere with a hill (Kansas is relatively flat) that did not dump her into a busy intersection. She did find one successful area at the local high school which we will have to try after we get some new sleds!

As the snow began to melt then came the ice which encased power lines and lined roads. We never lost power but did plenty of tip-toeing down the sidewalk. Above is a photo of the Reno's, Gail, and I as we did Christmas baking. Susie has a beautiful kitchen that could fit all of us working together. I will but a disclaimer on my culinary skills but I can still be helpful when it comes time to decorate. Other than that November and December have been months to be with Gail and friends from church, whether it be at the rotating restaurant in on the twenty something floor of the Hyatt or at the local dog park. People continue to be around to love and listen as I continue to learn what it means to live as a widowed child of the living God. He is still alive and isn't that what the season is about.

Merry Merry Christmas to all!

Lions, Tigers, and Monkeys in November

2007-11-25T20:46:00.000-08:00

October ended on an excellent note with Lynn, my oldest sister, my niece Abigail, and my little sister Gail coming for a visit. Abigail was able to be here for Halloween and you can see her in the clown outfit her oldest Aunt (me) picked out. It was most ridiculous with a large orange tie but the fabric was the softest in the bunch! We made an effort to have her play with Solomon and Macy but as you can see she was a little shy. We gave candy out until our bowl was empty and my brother-in-law ran to the store to restock. There is not a shortage of children in our neighborhood!Abigail warmed up to her Aunts quite nicely. She is a bundle of personality. Lynn and Jeremy have made it easy to track her growth on the Internet at smithkids.org if anyone is interested in some more footage of my niece. In the strain of connecting those still reading, my parents in Bangladesh had a visit in October from our home church in Nashville. This is the church where Will and I met in 2005 which makes it extra special! Their experiences were beautifully recorded at http://takingupspace.wordpress.com/. Check it out. You can't understand Bangladesh unless you go, but this gives you a good idea. While the girls were here we took a trip to the Louisberg Cider mill and drank hot cider, watched the apples being squashed, and played on the hay bales. Back at home we taught Abigail how to rake:0 With 10 trees in the yard we needed all the help we could get!
The highlight of our outings though, and a darn good excuse to visit Kansas City if you have been looking for one, (since there is a place to stay at 928 East Elizabeth) is the Zoo...

I am not sure if it was the sunshine and gorgeous fall colors or the carousel rides but I am sure it had a lot to do with getting to see a lion and monkeys 3 inches from the glass. It was a frightful site and Abigail was truthfully terrified but the older girls thought it to be pretty fantastic!

We all went to dinner the last night Lynn and Abigail were in Kansas. Abigail liked her special cup filled with water and we all had fun looking at all Bass Pro Shop has to offer. It was a blessing to have the crew here to enjoy the colorful leaves and the great outdoors Kansas does have to offer in the fall.

October

2007-11-25T19:43:00.001-08:00

October brought some beautiful fall leaves and different ways to remember Will. A benefit auction for brain tumor research was held by be Head Strong, the same people who organized the race, and they did a wonderful job of remembering those who had passed and continuing in the hope for a cure for those who are still fighting. The photo is from the banquet. On the lines of raising money we were able to raise over five thousand dollars for brain tumor research being done at Duke. The check was written in September after finding out that portion of the treatment that Will had been undergoing that was not covered by the insurance company was going to be covered by the hospital. This was an answer to prayer, many prayers actually.

October

2007-11-18T19:18:00.001-08:00

October began with another trip to California bringing a behind the bike trailer for Abigail. She was a smiling rider behind her aunt and mommy!

The trip then led to Hawaii with my cousin Marcelle and her sweet friend from nursing school Lauren....

It truly is as beautiful as the photos with the beaches and palm trees and wonderful sun.....
We ate some wonderful seafood, flew in a helicopter over hot lava, and snorkeled with large and gorgeous turtles.

The flowers were larger than almost believable and more colorful than in Kansas, although Kansas has it's own beauty! It was amazing to see the lava form tunnels in the ground and swim with fish of such amazing varieties.

It made me wonder with all God can make and do, why Will did not get to live longer. It means God's ways really are above mine and His thoughts above mine. (Isaiah 55:9)Until the two meet we and I continue to live and figure out how to celebrate life where ever that might take.

The Next Step

2007-09-06T02:23:00.000-07:00

I often am asked the question 'What is the next step?' This of course pertains to life after Will has died. Life long term plans are mostly put off for this time. Plans and dreams that I had all involved Will making life at this point more of a month to month endeavor.

I found my way back to CA in September to see Abigail, Lynn , and Jeremy. The trip consisted mostly of being with family and spending time outside. Some say Abigail takes a little after her Aunt Ruth. There are some things that remind me of stories I have heard. She definitely has spunk. A favorite memory is her running in to the ocean, not wanting to get out even when she had blue lips. The kid loves to have fun.

We visited cousin Marcelle in the city one day........

.......and the grandparents out in Novato another.....

Arriving back in Kansas City I was able to run in a race sponsored but Head for the Cure to raise funds for brain tumor research. Alan and Fran were there to watch and Susie, Brian, Ron, and I ran with the rest of the family cheering us on. I suppose as instinct we all wore our t-shirts from the golf tournament. Next year we may enter as a team. It was a day to remember that I wasn't alone. There were a lot of people there and all had been effected in some way by a brain tumor.

September also brought little Macy Morsman to join her brother Solomon from Ethiopia. Joe and Melanie were a great source of support while Will was battling cancer and now they have another little one making their family full with six kids. It has been sweet to see her grow.

Football season would not have been complete without a trip to Manhattan to see some K-state football. Molly and Adam who continue to be such sweet friends took me along this year to Will's Alma mater. Last year Will and I were there together. There is not much that happens were I don't have a thought of Will coming to mind. September led right into October but in so many ways life for me still in May yet somehow God does give the grace to make it just through the day. .

Summertime

2007-08-16T09:06:00.000-07:00

Greetings to all! I think the last blog of any worth information wise, I had just returned from the trip to India and was on the way to teach VBS for the week. There was a bit of natural trepidation transporting third graders but the class was such a blessing. They came every morning (sometimes screaming) 'Vacation Bible School is so cool.' Made me excited to be there. Theologically it was perfect for the stage I am at in understanding who God is and why he does what he does. (Not that I understand) There were short verses to memorize and even shorter truths to remind us what God is like. God is good. God is strong. God is with us.....

I can't remember the sequence if it was before or after VBS....I think before but we held the first ever Willis P. Memorial Golf tournament. In 2006, when Will was first diagnosed with brain cancer, some of his bothers and sisters went golfing. I think that really was the first ever Willis P Golf Tournament. We put that picture right next to Will's bed in rehab. They had three fingers making a W.

Will would have loved to just ride in the golf cart for this tournament. There were about 80 of his friends and family tooling around a reserved golf course. It was the first time I had ever golfed (minus Will and my trip to the driving range) and it can be said that I did not golf under 100! Actually I am not sure if I would have made it through the course if it had not been a scramble. My friend Emily Ann came in and used Will's clubs. We had a wonderful day. It was a day to remember Will and do some golfing which he loved. I learned though that it was a quiet sport, at least when people are teeing off. There is so much to learn......

The next week I caught a plane to Colorado and rented a car to travel down to Gunnison for the Reno family reunion. They have a reunion every two years but since Will was not able to come last year, they planned one for this summer. It was a hard but sweet. Sweet time being with so many people who loved and missed Will. Hard because he wasn't there. He continues to be missed daily. Will would have been proud as his brothers, dad. and nephews taught me how to shoot a shotgun and gave me credit for hitting more clay pigeons than I did:)

His nephew, niece, sister and brother-in-law were baptised in the river near the Reno's houses. The scenery was amazing and we spent most of the days outdoors. The fourth of July fireworks displays reminded me of the first time Will put his arm around me at the fireworks display in Nashville by the river. His brothers and I ran in a race nearby the cabins in Crested Butte that morning. It was a wonderful week with people who have become family.

I came home and started work on the 9th of July. My co-workers and some of my patients even have been caring and considerate, sweet and thoughtful....yet it is a return to 'normal' life without Will. A new kind of normal. Getting used to this slowly. Being in the world and not of the world is always a challenge. I knew having Will to go home to was a huge source of joy; but I did not know to the extent until he has not been there. Loving the unlovely and caring for those in need. That is much of my prayer these days. I am sometimes the unlovely:)

The grave marker was placed shortly before my 25th birthday. I was leaving for Nashville and able to see it before I took a small vacation. In some ways seeing the marker with my husband's name makes his death more real and in so many others it is most unreal. I look at the door expecting Will to come home, or wonder after a day at work if he is going to call. He is still here, in my heart, as cliche as that may sound.

The trip to Nashville was a great time to see some wonderful friends and just have time to be with people who have know me for a long time. I missed seeing quite a few friends which is why I will have to go back in the not too far future. Gail, my little sister, is coming to live with me in KC so maybe we will be able to make a trip together. Below is a photo of the best caramel cake I have ever had and Emily Ann with some balloons which made me smile after a late night trek to Tennessee. It is good to have friends who love you and who you love. That is a gift from the Lord.

Other than work I have been trying to get myself invited to the lake as frequently as possible. Besides a friend cracking three of his ribs and a collapsing his lung it has been a great source of joy. Linda and John have been more than generous in taking me out on their boat. We were able to take my nephew out and teach him how to ski for the first time. He did a super job and was a quick learner. I wished Will was there to see him get up! If it is not obvious I think and miss Will all the time. There seem to always be a remembrance of something we did together, wanted to do in the future, or I wish he was there to do. It was such a blessing to have him in my life. I know that is grace. Truth is what there is to focus on now.

Third Grade

2007-06-24T21:29:00.000-07:00

I am not sure what I think about concerning updating the blog after Will is gone but I figure those who will still be checking will be praying. Will and I had planned a trip to India with my older sister in CA to see my younger sister Gail graduate from high school. She did a wonderful job and has become a beautiful lady. She won awards for being the most sporty and 'school colors' which meant she represented what Hebron school stood for. She loves he Lord and she looked out for those younger than her. Gail did a good job being away from her family continuing to trust that God would protect and love her as she reached out to others.

It was a long but good trip. We returned to CA and I spent a few days with my grandparents and then some with Lynn and Abigail. She is growing up. This may be some of the more difficult parts of loosing Will. I feel like my world has still stopped as I look for him around the house and think that just maybe I will see him sometime when I am out. Airports are excruciating. I know he is gone but it stops my heart to see another pilot thinking it might be him.

So I am home. In our home. There are hard and good things about being in Kansas, the state that he loved. It was the real heartland to him. This week I will be working at Vacation Bible School at church. Third graders will make up my group and I know the Lord has plans and good things for those who love him but I have never not understood more what those plans are, so prayers, just prayers for good days and grace and whatever else you can think of would be appreciated. I don't understand much these days but just keep putting one foot in front of another. It's a ton harder without Will by my side but just one day at a time. Thank you for your continuing prayers. I know those in third grade thank you as well.

The Saddest Thing

2007-05-12T18:43:00.000-07:00

Sweet friends and family, it is with the saddest heart that I write today. Will left us to be with the Lord on Friday, May 11th around 3pm. We called an ambulance early Friday morning to take Will to the hospital. There were some acute changes and we thought we would go to the hospital and then Will would be able to come home after they gave him some medication or just did something, anything to help. He was shaking so we thought maybe it was a seizure. The paramedics put Will on a stretcher from the bed and I was able to stand over him and just tell him that I loved him. He looked up with one eye and told me he loved me. That was the last time I heard him speak. He was able to look at me when he was on the gurney entering the ER and squeeze my hand.

I know he is with the Lord now. I had visions before he passed away of him being complete - able to work with the ultimate carpenter Jesus Christ and fly fish in the streams. Now that he is gone the visions are more difficult to hold onto. Death truly is a sting, a terrible loss. I continue to look at the door and expect him to walk though with that huge smile and hold my hand or give me a sweet kiss. It is harder to take one step in front of another when he is not at my side. I just pray for faith and cry. Thank you for continuing to walk through life with us and now death.

We have planned a visitation for Tuesday night at Penwell-Gable Funeral home in Olathe, KS located at on the corner of 143rd and Blackbob. (http://www.penwell-gabel.com/ - obituary is posted here. Click on Olathe) There will be open visitation from 6-7 and at 7 we wanted just to have a time to share and remember Will. The Funeral will be at the same location on Wednesday at 4pm with the burial service to follow.

Will loved the Lord and I just loved him. Its hard to be anything but sad when I know I have lost my best friend. I just long for the day when I can see him again. I know at the same time I will see our Savior. Faith would not be faith if it was in the things seen. I just continue to have faith that the Lord's words are true Jeremiah 229:11 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. 12 Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. 13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart."

Love to all.

Keep Stepping

2007-05-04T16:57:00.000-07:00

It seems that once a month is realistic in my ability to update the blog site! Some days feel like a year has come to pass in those 24 hours and others we have been able to just enjoy the hours. My family made it safely across the miles with all their luggage and just in time to enjoy our Kansas City special for Easter...20 degrees and 3 inches of snow! A little bit of a change from the 80 degree weather in Bangladesh:) We were able to take a trip to the park on Easter day as it warmed up to play some football and just mess around. There is a gorgeous lake about 20 minutes south of where we were living and the pictures here are from there.

The week before my parents and Gail arrived, Will began having a bit more trouble speaking. We had just received the results of MRI #? and the tumor growth was small, almost unremarkable. MD Salacz heard our concerns though about conversation becoming more difficult for Will and switched Will's oral chemo to cyclophosphamide vs. etoposide while still giving the IV Avastin. We were just praying this one now would be effective. Mom, Dad, and Gail were able to go that Friday with Will and I to his chemo session. It was special to have them all be a part of that piece of life.

Even though Will was having more difficulty communicating there are some things in life where words aren't as necessary such as Easter cookie decorating! Gail and Will had a ball with the frosting and left just enough for a snack that night!

Abigail and Lynn arrived in time to let the 3 travelers get over their jet lag...Well almost....As you can see we just enjoyed being together!

Abigail has just turned 15 months and gave us many opportunities to run around and adore her. She has a darling little smile and just loved her grandad and uncle Will! She loved to be fed by anyone, favorite food being cheese, and would run up and cuddle for some sweet times on the couch. Mostly though, her time was spent running from one room to the next trying to explore all of the new fun things in this house.
Abigail is still learning to play with all of the new cousins....:)

while Will, Mom, and Gail did just fine! Soccer in the front yard was a favorite and hours of monopoly on freezing spring days were our pastime until we gave the family a whole new project to undertake..........

MOVING.....!! We did buy a home in the middle of April and my whole family was there to see the new place. We rented a truck and people from our church and Will's family came to load the truck at the duplex and unload it at the new house. We were transferred in a matter of hours. What a blessing! There is a lopsided photo below and if we take any more we can post them at another time but it just give you a little idea of what the new Will and Ruth Reno household looks like! (As well as what Dad looks like after a day of moving)

Cousins (the one cousin that even shares the name Ruth) even came from Texas on their way to Chicago to give us their fridge!

I can say for the most part we have moved in. The house had everything we were looking for including a stone fireplace that we were so intent on having in a new home. It seems to be very providential in timing to have a first floor master bedroom and bath that leads into the kitchen, living room, laundry, deck, and just 2 stair in and out of the house. Will's trouble talking has progressed to also having difficulty walking and with balance. There have been many changes over the past few weeks including not always being able to know what Will is understanding. There are times when we can tell he comprehends everything and just can't express and others where we are just making the best decisions with the wisdom the Lord has given us for that day.

On Thursday the 3rd we made another trip to MD Salacz to discuss the MRI from the 2cnd of May. We met with a doctor at Kansas University where we are going to transfer care to when MD Salacz goes to Duke. She recommended with so many changes we should get an MRI to see if the Avastin was effective any longer. It did not come as a real surprise but did come with great sadness that the new MRI showed the tumor has progressed significantly. Not only that but the Avastin has been causing some bleeding in Will's brain as well as there is swelling in the ventricles of his brain.

We sent the MRI to his neurosurgeon who had completed the past 2 surgeries just to see what he thought. His input was that since the tumor is close/intertwined with several intricate brain structures, the recovery from the surgery would outlast the benefit. We continue to look into other options in Birmingham as well as at the NIH in Bethesda but are having trouble weighing the consequences of dragging Will around the USA and beyond. If there was a sure treatment we would travel ANYWHERE but our goal is to have good time together and ultimately healing is up to the Lord. We just continue to pray for wisdom.

Will and I were reading the other night before bed and our devotional had us read Isaiah 43 which is titled : Israel's Only Savior. Verses 1-5 are as follows: " But now, thus says the LORD, your Creator, O Jacob, And He who formed you, O Israel, "Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; you are Mine! When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they will not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched, Nor will the flame burn you. For I am the LORD your God, The Holy One of Israel, your Savior; I have given Egypt as your ransom, Cush and Seba in your place. Since you are precious in My sight, Since you are honored and I love you, I will give other men in your place and other peoples in exchange for your life. Do not fear, for I am with you; I will bring your offspring from the east, And gather you from the west."

I am not sure still how all of the promises made to Israel transfer to the church now, but I know God was faithful to the wandering children of Israel and he fulfilled his promises. He has promised to never leave Will and I and never to forsake us since we are his children. The Lord never told us it would be easy but I often balk when it seems so tough. We will not be burned drowned or left alone. The Lord will be at our side and although I don't see why all this is happening I know ~ "Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. 2For by it the men of old gained approval. 3By faith we understand that the worlds were prepared by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things which are visible." So we continue to pray for faith and more and more of it for we truly are blessed. Christ came for us and on top Will and I still have our families, each other, and the love of our Savior.

Thanks for lifting us up as we put one foot in front of the other!

You can find us now at 928 E Elizabeth St.

Olathe, KS 66061

(913) 972 3130 (ruth's cell)

829-4459 (home)

221-6287 (will's cell)

Unusual Reactions

2007-03-26T09:30:00.000-07:00

There are times in life when all the normals are thrown out the window. When I last wrote Will had just began his Panzem treatment. It was an oral liquid, chalky but bearable. Will began taking the medication on Wednesday the 7th. We returned from Duke the following day thinking this would be an easy medication to handle. Will felt great until Saturday night when some queasiness began. He was in bed for the first time ever when I got home from work at 8pm! I thought it was strange but figured it would be OK the next day. He opted out of church which never happens and began to vomit mid morning on Sunday. All day Sunday and Monday he couldn't even keep water down. We called the doctors on call at Duke and MD Salacz here. The consensus was to stop the Panzem (oral chemo from Duke) for 24 hours and see how that helped.

Will was in the hospital Monday and Wednesday (of last week) receiving fluids for dehydration and every anti-nausea medication they thought might work. We tried 8 different kinds of anti nausea medications. Nothing seemed to help and being off the Panzem didn't completely stop the nausea so it was restarted. Will tried to muddle through his 4 doses a day but never felt like he was getting back to normal.

My good friend Betsie came in town. Friday was the first time Will felt like getting out of the house. We went down-town to take a look at the Dead Sea Scrolls and Will threw up for the last time an hour after his Panzem dose. He said the medication just didn't make him feel right. Life's not that fun when you are throwing up all the time and if you never feel right it is hard to enjoy yourself so we are officially off the Panzem study from Duke.

The nausea and vomiting was an unusual reaction to the Panzem but surely was Providential. Will's last MRI on the 22cnd of this Month showed there was new growth. This means the Panzem was rather ineffective at controlling the tumor even though Will only took it for a short time. With the guidance of doctors and some more prayers we have decided to return to receiving the IV Avastin medication every 2 weeks from St. Luke's. The doctors placed this in combination with a new medication which Will is taking by mouth every day for 21 days then 7 days off called Etoposide. They have had some success with these 2 medications when taken together. We are just praying now that this will stop the growth! Insurance still does not want to cover these treatments so we are praying for favor in that area. We are still going through appeals and writing letters. Another issue in the medical world that makes it just a little harder to deal with the real issues at hand!

The doctors always test Will's kidney function prior to the Avastin treatments since it is known to be hard on your kidneys. For the 9 treatments he had earlier there were never any problems, but now after the Panzem treatments Will's tests showed some mild kidney failure. No kidney failure is mild but this was barely in Stage 2 which meant Will could still receive the Avastin. Having been off the IV Avastin for the past 6weeks we still don't know if this is an unusual reaction to the Panzem or something further. In any regard we will be watching it closely and covet your prayers! All normals really have to be thrown out when you are dealing with individuals!

SOOO for the non-medical which is the most fun - Will's sisters just came in with their 8 combined kids and my friend Betsie. I have enclosed those photos above. You can tell we are quite a crowd wherever the Reno's travel! We are still looking to buy a home and are having inspections done on the new prospect tomorrow. Will, Lynn, and I just bought tickets to travel to see Gail (my little sister graduate) from high school in June. We just pray for wisdom in every step. Will's oldest brother is in town from Colorado with his 2 kids and we have been throwing the baseball and playing games together. Will manned the golf cart this morning for their game. PLUS my parents and Gail are coming to visit us for 2 weeks in April. We are excited! It is just still sweet to be together. Will is back to eating normally and we are thankful. Will and I are glad to have each other and still so glad to have the prayers of those around us! Thank you again for walking through this time with us.

The Trip

2007-03-09T19:31:00.000-08:00

HOME AT LAST! It just feels wonderful to be back in a place where we know our schedule and are not waiting for hours for doctors to answer our questions! (not that we are complaining:) Will qualified this time for the Panzem trial! We were praising the Lord for an open door so we just walked through. Panzem is an oral chemo/targeted therapy that Will has to take 4X's a day. The side effects seem minimal at this stage and the most evident is the inconvenience that not eating 1/2 hour before or after the medication causes. So again we are not complaining but the wait on Tuesday to see the MD for 5 minutes was 4 hours. This afford the opportunity to meet a Jewish family who had just flown in from Israel. Their 23 year old son had been diagnosed with a brain tumor the past December and they were flying to all the major US cities to search for the best options. Will's Mom and Dad were traveling with me and being the 'friendly Kansas city folk' as his Mom would say, struck up a conversation. We learned they were taking the same herbal medicine as Will from Mannatech and had some information about some other therapies that we are going to investigate. There was a level of comfort knowing that the Lord let even his chosen people develop a glioblastoma. It made Ruth remember that the Lord has not forgotten....so you can add Ilan Dimant to the list of those to lift up. The Lord will not forget his people. Ilan and his family are in the picture below. He is a measly 6 foot 7 inches. The other is a photo of the four of us at Red Lobster where Will skillfully attacked TWO POUNDS of crab legs. He did have some help finishing!

We are scheduled for a trip back to Duke on April 3rd. They will be doing MRI's every 4 weeks in order to keep an 'eye' on the tumor. We are just praying that this is the therapy that stops and shrinks the tumor. In the interim Will and I will be entertaining and continue to look for a house. We have put the third offer down on a new home and are waiting to hear back from the owners. Will's sisters came in for a surprise visit from Colorado and we were thrilled! His brother and their family come end of March and before that one of my dear friends is traveling in to spend some of Spring in Kansas City. We truly are blessed. Thank you Thank you for your thoughts, notes, and above all your continued prayer!!

1 Corinthians 15:25-26 "For he must reign until he has put all his enemies under his feet. The last enemy to be destroyed is death."

Amen!!

THe Saga

2007-03-04T16:20:00.000-08:00

It always seems to me after a MRI report life turns into a bit of a saga for a few days. Apologies for leaving yet another cliffhanger of a blog!

MD Salacz read the MRI on the 23rd of February. The space on the side of the tumor cavity that we were watching before seemed mostly unchanged from the last MRI and the tumor cavity actually looked smaller. This was a praise. Another tumor spot that they had been watching though had gone from 4mm to 11mm. This doesn't seem like much of an increase to some, but significant when you are dealing with the brain. Our scans were whisked off to Duke and then we had the weekend to wait and be patient.

Our doctor is always calm. He likes to say he doesn't get overly excited about the good news overly depressed concerning the bad. This coupled with a peace the the Lord provided, gave us a rather calm weekend and were able just to wait until Monday. We were waiting to hear if Duke had any new cancer protocols or trials in which we could enroll and if not we would continue in Kansas with the Avastin treatments and switch to another drug besides the CPT-11 Will had been receiving. MD Salacz felt the Avastin was still effective since so much else on the scan looked promising and wanted Duke's input.

Monday rolled around and we expected Duke to call by 8am. Ruth wouldn't have minded the early wake up since she was driving to work and had started calling people at 7am. You have to start early if you want anything accomplished with the medical system!! It ended up that most of the medical staff, specifically our contact, convieneiently developed a stomach bug that week! Ruth called 3 or 4 other contacts and just waited for a call back. By the end of the day there was nothing and Will was scheduled for Chemo at St. Luke's the next day. Since we didn't want to just sit around and do nothing to fight the new growth we had tenatively scheduled a treatment, but it was important to hear from Duke prior to administering any more chemo in case that would disqualify Will from one of the trials. We called MD Salacz and he started to call Duke as well.

Tuesday morning came and we postponed Chemo until Wed in order to hear from Duke. A Doctor called around 3pm our time to tell us they had a chance to review Will's scans and Will's disease had progressed. When we heard over the phone that the tumor was bigger and close to the brain stem, not in the brain stem just close, I think it hit home more for both of us. It was just sad. But there was not much time to grieve as they were faxing us the consent for a new trial at Duke with which they had some success with in the past and thought Will would be a good candidate. The new drug is called Panzem and Will would be taking it orally three times a day. She didn't know many of the specific rules and regs of the trial and not knowing when we could actually go to Duke we kept our appointment to receive the Avastin her in Kansas City on Wed. We still needed to contact the head of the trial because if we were going to have to wait for weeks to recive this treatment we wanted to do something in KC now!

To make a long story short the appointment for Will's chemo was moved to Thursday and in God's providence we found out 15 minutes before Will was to leave the house that if he took this next treatment of chemo it would disqualify him from anything at Duke AND that they would get us into an appointment the next week. We felt like then we could at least breathe out knowing we would be doing something physically to fight the growth along with all the praying that had been done the past few days.

So we are heading out to North Carolina tomorrow. Ruth's work has been understanding and given the time needed to make the trip. We will be in the clinic on Tuesday being screened for eligibility in the trial and then hopefully Will is going to take his first dose of Panzem on Wednesday. We say hopefully, but we are praying that whatever the Lord's will is in this situation we will be submissive to. Including just coming home if the trial is not in His plan for Will's next treatment step.

So there is a long blurb. Our flight takes off at 8am. Ruth has spent some time this past weeks just having some sad days just hating the fact that Will is sick. It's been a bit of a battle at times to remember God never promised heaven in this life but instead He 'is preparing a place' and in that place there will be no more sickness of sorrow and the Lord is sovereign.

I just attached some photos at the end. Some are from game playing, others from a gorgeous day at the park when we took Will's nephew Caleb for his first playground experience. The one's where there are a lot of kid's were taken at none other than Applebee's where Will and Ruth both acquired their waiter and waitress skills, separate cities, ten years apart but same restaurant. We introduced Will's older brother's family to our favorite dessert the Maple Butter Blondie. UMMMM!!

All for now. We continue to pray in all things that the Lord be glorified!

"But I have trusted in Your mercy; My heart shall rejoice in Your salvation. I will sing to the Lord, because He has dealt bountifully with me." Psalm 13.5-6

Isaiah 41:10:
So do not fear, for I am with you;
do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you;
I will uphold you with my

righteous right hand.

February 2007

2007-02-20T07:44:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentines day a little late and all the Holidays in between we missed! It is less than a month later but I feel as though we left you on a cliff hanger last time! After finding out that the reason Duke had not responded was that our scans had been sent to MD Anderson vs Duke, we waited an extra day prior to starting the radiation therapy. The physicians assistant called from Duke and reported after reviewing the scans his adamant recommendation would be that we continue with the chemo and not do the radiation therapy. He wanted us to just recheck the MRI in 6 weeks as planned. It is Duke's belief that the tumor spot was small enough not to touch. After a day of prayers and discussing options with MD Salacz, we decided to play the waiting game with the understanding if Will began to feel any worse we would get an immediate MRI and proceed from there.

Time does truly fly when you are having fun as Will is up for his next scheduled MRI this Thursday the 22cd! We will meet with MD Salacz after and review the results. If this is something you can lift up to the Lord we would be grateful!

Will has been doing well with his chemo. He now receives treatments on Tuesdays and ends up feeling pretty crummy all of Tuesday and then Wednesday feels mostly back to normal which is a huge praise. He is holding strong at 150lbs and not loosing so we are thankful! He has started to have just 2-3 minutes in the day where he feels nauseous and has to sit down. This is not a huge imposition in the day but just another side effect to pray that the Lord will relieve him of.

In the meantime we have taken a trip to Colorado to see Willis's new precious niece. She is so sweet and it was a great time to just relax and to be in a place that was actually WARMER than KC. Shocking:) There was just enough snow on the ground in the yard that Will and Ruth could take the snowmobiles out and take the kids on a bit of a ride. The kids seemed more comfortable driving with Will than they did with Ruth even though he was driving with one arm! Those of you who have driven with Ruth you can figure out why:) With the good weather we drove a couple of hours to the hot springs and enjoyed a day there. Will rented a 'banana boat' for his nephews and they had a ball. After a couple of games of baseball we headed to an Italian restaurant to celebrate Valentines Day since Ruth had to work on the 14th. It was just a sweet time being with Family and playing lots of Monopoly!

Thanks for your prayers and for lifting us up these past few weeks and this coming Thursday.

3cm

2007-01-13T16:02:00.000-08:00

Greetings! To those who faithfully look to see if I have updated our blog and then have gotten 4 new additions due to the fact that I cannot spell check at work and then promptly forget to finish the writings once I get home, Will and I both thank you. We thank you for your prayer and love!

As many have asked and wondered what are the results of the most recent MRI. This MRI was after the second 6 week session of the IV chemo Avastin/CPT-11. We knew it was not the 'end-all-be-all' but we were hoping for some more of the same good news. Although what we found was not entirely devastating, it was a bit maddening. There is a new 2cm growth at the bottom of the surgical cavity. It was frankly an area they were worried about previously but seemed to be shrinking by the last MRI that was taken. Ruth spent some time crying and just being sad and Will spent time comforting his wife. Then it was and is back to the drawing board. Since the tumor seems to be contained in all other areas of the brain the thought of our doctor is to continue with the current IV chemo and treat the small 'problem spot' with some radiation surgery. It would be non-invasive and possibly completed in Kansas. Duke was unable to get back to us prior to the weekend so we continue to wait for their input in the situation. We just have to keep the tumor under 3cm for the radiation surgery to be done. Never though 1cm would matter so much!

Will and I just continue to pray for this to go away and as so many have prayed for the Lord's healing. In the meantime Ruth has learned how to play Risk and tied with Will and then taught a crew how to dominate the game of Clue. A little bit of snow and sleet has kept us indoors but we have learned that a Honda Civic works quite well through the ice and snow. Thanks again for continuing to pray. We just ask for God's mercy.

PS we have been looking for a house in the midst of all this and have an offer down on a 3 bedroom ranch which has been accepted. It is really cute and completely redone. Prayers for wisdom would be wonderful on this account as well!

New Year

2007-01-09T01:29:00.000-08:00

New years bring new beginnings and as Tuesday before we learn the results of Will's MRI we just remember how far the Lord has brought us. From Denver to Nashville where Will met Ruth who came from Jackson to spend the summer. To San Francisco where love bloomed to Kansas City where it was sealed before God in a large church in Stanley the verse stands true;
"Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you."[a] 6 So we say with confidence, "The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?"[b] Hebrews 13:5b & 6.

These verses come from Deuteronomy and Psalms and all those year ago the words stood true as they did in Hebrews and as they do now. If you happen to stumble upon this entry today please pray with us for God's mercy and wisdom in this new year.

The Visit

2007-01-09T00:51:00.000-08:00

After a week off in SanDiego the temptation was great to go to work but Ruth was able to resist because....Lynn and Abigail were to come into town. The visit lasted a week and provided some sweet time for us to fall more in love with Abigail and for her to realize she liked her mom better than she liked us!!:) Afternoons were spent at the park and a day at the Art Museum where Will and Abigail humored the sisters and their cultural outing. Abigail really is as cute as she looks with a quick laugh and a teetering walk. Will continued to receive treatments and need a nap in order to recuperate in the afternoons which worked perfectly with Abigail's schedule. This provided the sisters with some much needed time to run and just talk about life with one another. Lynn and Abigail headed on to Chicago to meet Jeremy's family and we stayed in KC to prepare for Christmas!

Since two weeks away from work never seem like enough Ruth decided not to return until after Christmas. We had decided that it was time to start a full-time position and one opened in the Surgical ICU (SICU) so an agreement was made to start on the 26th. With this in mind there was not much reason to go in before, so Ruth just stayed home with Will. He surprised her with a trip to the Nutcracker which she had wanted to see in real life for years. He is a romantic!
Not surprisingly this has been one of our favorite Christmas seasons. There have been many evenings spent just sitting by the fire and enjoying the lights of the tree. Praying together every evening brought a sense of thankfulness for the baby that came and then died for our sins. It is a bit mind boggling to thing the precious baby in a manger died 33 years later. A connection that had not been made in my head and I still struggle to fully realize. Another aspect of Christ that I continue to wrestle with but know is true is the fact the God is good. God is good even though Will is sick. God is loving because that is who He is. It does not change just because Will has become ill. It is truth. I learn faith, true faith from my husband who continues to believe and trust that God is real, present, and active no matter what goes on with his body - he believes in truth. I am blessed.

So Christmas day came with a late wakeup call and a leisurely time opening presents. I am sure if the Lord chooses to bless us with kids one day we will love waking at the crack of dawn but it sure was nice to do everything at a slow pace including taking a nap prior to cooking! Will's parents and brother came over for the evening meal and just made it feel like a real celebration. We are grateful to have family near enough to have over and thankful for the phone to talk to those who are not! So as said before as husband and wife you stay together in sickness and in health and we are truly blessed.

Polar Bears

2007-01-09T00:41:00.000-08:00

It is now January of 2007. It is not too surprising that I have not entered anything for the new year but here we are now to share our blessings and requests for prayers. Thanksgiving passed and left Will and Ruth looking for a tree on the 26th. Knowing it had to be real AND perfect they set out to hunt. The first choosing of an evergreen passed with complete agreement on the tree and it still stands in the living room today. Epiphany has passed but the Renos continue to celebrate Christmas with a beautiful tree in the living room.
Through the end of November and beginning of December Ruth continued to work on an interim basis at the Veterans hospital. Will received treatments every Friday at St Luke's and spent time recovering and enjoying time with family. The beginning of December brought a lull in Veteran's hospital census and a perfect opportunity to use a 3 night stay at the Marriott that Ruth had won in a drawing. With Will's free flying privilege the trip provided a wonderfuly stressless vacation including time at the beach, a day spent touring the zoo, and dinner together at night where we could just laugh and be together. Our favorite part of the trip might have been watching the Polar bears together. It is not everyday you run up against such a massive creature up close and to watch him swim made us want to jump in! The whole trip was truly a blessing and a beautiful start to the holidays.

Phase II

2006-11-21T17:05:00.000-08:00

After Ruth and Willis's trip to NC it was time to enter phase II of the treatment adventure. Since Halloween was near and there were tons of maps printed in order to find our way around Duke for the next year, we decided to combine the two. The maps were spread out on the table and pumpkin carving commenced. Will created his pumpkin all on his own with one arm and you can see how it outshines Ruth's about 100%:)

Since we had not been accepted into the protocol at Duke, the Reno's once again returned to KC to figure out the next step in Will's treatment. We had spoken to MD Salacz at St. Lukes concerning the chemotherapy as an alternative option prior to August 25th. He had begun the ground work in getting it approved with the insurance and this was the option Will decided to go with next. The treatment is experimental and is the exact same as what we would have been receiving at Duke, CPT-11 and avastin, just no longer free under the protocol. This still has not seemed to be a problem to St. Luke's as we are undergoing treatment without knowing how were are going to pay. They have agreed to administer the medication no matter what our ability is to pay which is a blessing. Discussions and appeals with the insurance company continue to occur and prays are going up for a solution but until we get one we just live by grace.

It really is amazing how the Lord continues OVER AND OVER to provide for our needs. The most recent being a positive MRI reading. To back up a bit Will did start the treatments on October 20th. He receives an intravenous infusion for 4 hours every two weeks at St. Lukes. Work has been wonderful about letting Ruth have those days off so we can sit and talk or watch TV or just be with each other. November 17th was Will's third treatment in six weeks placing him back in the MRI scanner the following Monday November 20th. Being the first MRI post experimental treatment we were all ready to see the results! We are so thankful for the notes and prayers from those who keep lifting us up. There had been some 'enhancement' areas on the pre-experimental infusion MRI back in September that were questionable for tumor. Those areas have regressed/gotten smaller. The darker areas which were the old blood that had disqualified Will for the study at Duke are lighter and have regressed. AND there is no new blood on the MRI which would have stopped the treatments. There are praises all around and I know you are to praise the Lord in ANY circumstance but we just can't help but be happy for the good news. Thanks for sharing in this with us!

Besides all of this it is hunting season for white-tailed deer. Will has been out several times and is still to shoot one but we know it is just on the horizon!

Alan, Fran, Will, and Ruth spent some sweet time at the International House of Prayer (IHOP) in Grandview, MO just praying and having other pray for Will's healing. IHOP is a wonderful 24 hour prayer ministry which has rooms where those who are ill can go and pray specifically for healing. Prayer for Will's healing is an everyday affair but we hope to get back soon to take advantage of others lifting their voices to the Lord.

Thanksgiving is almost here and we do have a lot to be thankful for. Warm showers and heaters and crunchy leaves just touch the surface of how much we praise God for the gifts He gives and how He provides. He spared nothing, not even the gift of His Son Jesus. I think sometimes that even becomes cliche when I say it but the thought of giving up Will or he I, hurts just to think about. I cannot imagine the pain of giving up One I had perfect communion with. Guess I think of Thanksgiving as a bit of a precursor to Christmas. We are thankful for positive MRI scans and life. We are thankful for 26 of Will's family members coming in for the Thanksgiving holidays to love on us and celebrate. We are thankful for those who read this lengthy blog and then pray. We really are.
Some of the crew at IHOP before Will's MRI>

North Carolina

2006-10-15T19:40:00.000-07:00

Currently we have returned from North arolina. There were weeks of preparation preceding this trip in order to get Will into a clinical trial. All treatment from here on out is experimental since the first round of chemo and radiation was ineffective. Duke had/has a trial using and IV infusion of two chemotherapy agents to attack the tumor. We spent two days at Duke signing consents and Will was taking tests. Doctors and clinicians were confident Will would qualify for the trial and Will was scheduled for his first treatment on Friday morning. Will’s dad Alan had traveled with us and we decided to go to the beach for the rest of the afternoon. It was 80 degrees and sunny so a wonderful day to sit by the waves. Half way through the afternoon we received a call that blood had been noted on the MRI which disqualified Will for the study. The fact that there was an indication of blood on the MRI is not a concern medically, it only meant that the company which is conducting the trial requires everyone in the study to start from the same baseline, meaning no blood. Since we got that news too late to go home Thursday, we spent the night in Durham and flew home Fri. The advantage to being in the Duke study was that all of the chemo drugs would have been free. The same chemo treatment can be done here at St. Luke's in Kansas City but the insurance does not cover the cost of it which we have been told is about $40,000/treatment (Will will require a treatment every two weeks for a year or more if this chemo is effective). We have scheduled a meeting with Dr. Salacz at St. Luke's Cancer institute for Monday/tomarrow at noon to discuss options. We had prayed the whole trip that the Lord would open and close doors as he saw fit. Ruth was a little frustrated and Will peaceful as he remembered outloud that what we pray we must live. Isn't that the truth. We covet prayers and continue to look in joy and with anticipation to what the Lord in going to do.

FInd rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from Him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; He is my fortress, I will not be shaken." Psalm 62:5-6

Second Time Around

2006-10-15T11:40:00.000-07:00

On August 25th Will entered into the operating room once again. Once again the Veterans hospital Ruth was working at helped release her from the ICU position she was suppose to start that week and allow her to stay part time in order to be with Will. Four hours and a few nail bites later Will was out of surgery an on his way to the ICU again. He was groggy but talking and smiling. We were all just thankful to have him still alive. It was another day.
The surgery went as well as could be expected with all of the visible tumor being removed once again. The tumor had grown a little further to the front this time causing Will's arm and leg to be effected after removal. He is still undergoing physical and occupational therapy to try to regain use of he right side. He does so well getting around and continues to know the Lord has a plan. Knowing the surgery was not a cure this time either other options were being explored. Will again progressed rapidly from the ICU to the regular floor and then directly to rehab. Two weeks later he was back at home and Ruth and Will were bother just enjoying being together again.
Since the surgerie we have been enjoying time......

at Royal's and softball games....

At aviation shows........................At weddings........

AT KSTATE GAMES..........

In Colorado with the aspens or having fun at home......

and at chiefs games and bowling with family.....

Whatever it has been it has involved a lot of prayer, many tears, and much laughter. We continue to want to go on a honeymoon, buy a house, and have kids but are waiting for the Lords timing on each. We are only guaranted today and we continue to live under the grace provided for today. We are thankful for the prayers and encouragement of all around. The joy of the Lord IS our strength.

Marriage and Beyond

2006-10-14T13:58:00.000-07:00

July 15th rolled around beautiful at 100 degrees and sunny. Friends and Family from all over made the sweet trip on 3 weeks notice to celebrate the joining of the two. It was a sweet time and made for the perfect beginning of their lives now as one. If any of you grew up in the 80's then you will know where the quote 'Mawage, Mawage is what bwings us togever today.." is from. Marriage is what brought so many sweet people together to bless Will and Ruth on a day where she really did feel like a princess bride! They do say that the wedding kiss rates as one of the best/ longest in history.
Mom, Dad, and Gail Schroeder had to return to the other side of the ocean and Ruth and Will settled into their duplex in Lenexa, Kansas. Being close to all the KC Renos provided a wonderful support group for Will and Ruth alike as they began their lives together.

Will continued with his radiation and chemo for the next five weeks as the couple learned how to live and love together. Ruth was orienting to a new position at the VA and Will undergoing therapy in attempts to get his arm back to baseline strength for hunting elk in September. Will was starting to drive again and mow the grass. Both were entertaining thoughts of a real honey moon and trying to buy a house.

Will felt tired but no other real health concerns arose while he was having treatment. He was even able to keep his thick black hair until after the wedding. From then on he started sporting the shiny look which Ruth has grown to prefer. He finished 33 radiation sessions and six weeks of oral chemo to complete the first phase. All was going well.

On August 16th Will was at home watching a football game when he experienced a small seizure. He was able to call his parents after it was over and they rushed him to the ER. A CT of his head was completed and we were told their was a large mass noted in the surgical cavity. Figuring there must be some mistake Will and Ruth headed home to get some sleep. An MRI was not scheduled until 3 days later and unfortunately revealed a tumor larger than the size of the first which was causing a significant amount of swelling. This may have been the cause of the seizure and consequently was the Lord’s way of telling us something was not right. After many tears a more than a bit of disbelief, it was back to the square one to figure out the next plan of action. True to their word Will was immediately taken off of the clinical trial at St. Lukes and other options were explored. We were presented with either the option to do surgery or an experimental chemo. What a terrific decision to face after all that had transpired in the past few weeks. Again after many prayers and tears Will and Ruth decided to go with the surgery. It seemed like the most aggressive option to provided them with some more time.

Preparation

2006-07-26T13:48:00.000-07:00

When it came to marriage planning it was a blessing that Will came from a big family and that the Lord continued to bless Ruth and Will’s efforts to be together. Will’s sister-in-law Kristen became partners with Ruth’s mom and to created the dynamic duo of wedding planners. They took care of flower, caterers, and details. The Lord opened up a beautiful Presbyterian Church in Stanley in which to have the ceremony. Will's sisters Terri and Gail created the announcements (which some of you are yet to receive since they are still on my desk.....but you will!) Susy did the programs. Joy loaned Ruth her wedding dress. Brothers, sisters, family member and friends provided rides, made meals, and prayed. Some may think what did Ruth and Will do? The best answer may be ‘A whole lot of nothing!’ It was a blessing that God created both Ruth and Will the way he did and having others plan the wedding was the best idea either of them could think of!

The Waiting

2006-07-26T13:45:00.000-07:00

Ruth and Cheryl arrived in Kansas city after spending a not so restful night in the Denver airport. :) (Standby sometimes really is just that:) After showers and naps Mom was able to start meeting all of the 7 brothers and sisters and 15 nieces and nephews. It was a happy household and over the next few days Ruth and Cheryl found their spot in the Reno clan. Will told Ruth he wanted to start to look for rings. Ruth still wasn’t sure if this meant he wanted to get married now or later. Will thought this was obvious. Oh the difference between men and women!
June 23rdwas their one year anniversary. Will took Ruth out to Ruth’s Chris steak house and they enjoyed dinner and conversation. Ruth went to the bathroom and came back to find 12 roses on her chair. Will had never given her red roses except for the time he told her that he loved her. Will got down on one knee as he asked Ruth to be his wife. There were a few teary eyes and Will’s brother popped out from the restaurant to reveal he had been taping the whole thing. What a special memory to have on tape! Will then revealed the wedding would happen in 3 weeks and everyone was on board. Both families had agreed to do everything they could to make the wedding special and not to mention possible while Ruth’s family would be in the country! At this the whirlwind and the fun began!
Ruth returned home to begin the process on moving to another state and switching jobs. She was working for the Veterans hospital in SF. They were immensely helpful in getting her transferred to the Kansas City VA. Her cousin, Marcelle, whom she had been living with helped pack up the apartment and after a few more days of work, time with the family, and her grandparents 60th wedding anniversary she was trucking across the country to her new home in Kansas. Mom/Cheryl went with her and they passed the time laughing and catching up on life that had not gotten to be shared.

Prior to all of this, it was discovered that Will’s tumor was a cancer called glioblastoma multiforme. This type of tumor is a fast growing and non surgically removable tumor so although they got all of the tumor that they could see there was still more on a cellular level. A trip to St. Luke’s cancer center just a couple of weeks after Will’s operation opened up the possibilities of participating in a clinical trial. The doctors and staff were impressive with their knowledge and evident concern about Will’s recovering. After many prayers and much discussion, all decided to have Will participate in a trial where he would receive radiation and chemotherapy under the supervision of a clinical trial. There were assurances that Will’s best interest would be in mind at all times. A five week waiting period was in order after his surgery to allow healing and then began the second part of his journey to recovery two weeks before the wedding.

Next Steps

2006-07-06T09:22:00.001-07:00

Will began to recover nicely moving from the ICU straight to a med/surg floor and then to a rehab hospital. Word finding was still coming slower than he would have liked but he was walking and continuing to make everyone laugh. With him doing so well, thoughts now turned to next steps. The Renos and Ruth were waiting to find out what type of cancer we would be facing and options to pursue. Ruth was attempting to sort out what to do with her job and if/when Will wanted her to move out to Kansas City. Even after brain surgery there was no doubt in Will’s mind that he wanted to still be with her.
Ruth went back to San Francisco to work and Will stayed in Kansas to recover. When Cheryl, Ruth’s mom, first heard about Will being sick she began to work on changing her flight back to the USA. (Ruth’s parents live in Bangladesh.) She was coming to see her first grandchild later in the month so Dad/Don traveled to the main city six hours away to arrange a new flight.
Ruth was attempting to hold down a job in SF with her heart remaining in KC. It was a sweet time for Cheryl/Mom to be able to come in and just be a part of the developing story. With Will being a former pilot there were free flight offers from friends still flying so Ruth and her mom headed out to Kansas city again to see the recovering Will.

In sickness and in health....

2006-07-03T05:10:00.000-07:00

If anyone is reading this you may or maynot know about Will's health issues over the past few months but chances are you do know that we are getting married! Traditional vows have read 'in sickness and in health'. I am not sure what ours will be but some of the sickness has come sooner than we expected. It has been quoted to us though many times....Hits not the years in your life that counts but the life in your years...' We are going to make the most of this life together but here is a little of the story.

It was March/April of this year and what had turned into the Willis and Ruth duo were trucking along in their relationship. Conversations had begun to include kids and houses and working out how to live in the same town. Medical issues came into the picture at this time as well with an upset stomach and decreased appetite for Will. There is not a whole lot of margin for weight loss so Ruth suggested a Doctor's visit. Wanting to cut our the middle man Will went straight to a GI specialist who essentially waved him off with some over the counter medications. We decided it was time now to get someone who could see the whole picture and made an appointment with a Family medicine doctor.

About this time Will was also studying to earn his 737 license in the journey to be employed by Southwest. He had completed one week of ground school and was off for the second week of simulator training. Retaining information had become harder as well as recalling words. Some simple like cup and towel and others more complex like APU or thrusters. During this month as well there had been episodes where Will had numbness down his arms and in his right leg. Lack of appetite and a 'full feeling' in his stomach continued. The medical doctor thought this could all have to do with a hiatal hernia and prescribed some strong antacid. With these in hand Will headed off to finish his training and that he did! Two days before his 33rd Birthday he returned to Nashville with a new 737 license...a sweet accomplishment but it had been a lot harder than maybe it should have been. Around the time he arrived home Will started to have splitting headaches and increasing numbness. Words were even harder to find.

Ruth was visiting Nashville and they were able to go to the doctor together this time. He poked and prodded a bit and listened a lot. They left the doctor's office with two referrals in hand to see an neurologist and another GI specialist. The neurologist was the fist one able to see Will and since it was still a week away we continued on with our trip to Jackson to see Ruth's friends graduate and enjoyed time in Nashville. Ruth had to return to San Francisco before the appointment but Will's parents heard about what was happening and came to Nashville to be beside their son.

The 26th brought an MRI and news that no one expects to hear. The neurologist saw a rather large mass on the left side of Will's head. Although they did not know what the future would hold the decision was made to move back to Kansas to receive care. In 24 hours the house was packed and the Reno's we heading back to KC to all be together. A Neurosurgeon appointment was made for Tues the 31st. Speaking became more difficult but the goal was just to make it until 2pm on the 31st in hopes some answers would be found.

Ruth came in from San Fran a couple of days early to be able to go to the appointment. Unfortunately Will's body could not wait until that time. He woke up the morning of the 31st in bad shape and unable to speak. An ambulance ride later Ruth met the rest of the Reno family in the ER. After a day spent waiting the neurosurgeon was able to see Will and removed a large tumor from the left side of he brain. He was able to extract all that he saw and family and friends who were praying were able praising the Lord for one more day added to Will's life. All those watching were able to see the hand of the Lord spare Will.

The History

2006-07-02T02:19:00.000-07:00

Ruth Schroeder distinctly remembers the Sunday the 5th of June 2005 as the Sunday after the Sunday she decided not to attend church resulting from a game of rock-paper-scissors. It was shortly after leaving Union University. 'Ironically' that was the Sunday the Pastor asked all those who had just graduated to stand up. Ruth sheepishly stood up and sat down, little knowing there were two eyes looking her way the entirety of the service.

If you here the rest of the story told by Will you learn of falling over folding chair in order to gain an audience with the young lady he was watching, but as seen by Ruth that Sunday was the day she met a lovely your man named Will Reno.

Will hung around church until all had left the premises except the Schroeders and some family friends. He was promptly invited to lunch at which he sat around listening to family tales of Ruth growing up at Community Bible Church and how she approached adolescence. Will was attentive and an easy laugher. Ruth thought, who is this guy? They parted ways and there were no numbers exchanged or talk of meeting again. The next Sunday, the 12th, Will barely made eye contact with Ruth. She resolved that this had amounted to nothing.

If you hear this story from Will's perspective you would call this period in time 'playing it cool.' He didn't want to seem to desperate so the Sunday of the 19th he asked for her number. Bold move if you know Will!

Ruth received a call that week and plans were made for the 23rd to go out. She thought he was just a pilot who wanted someone to show him around Nashville. He had psyched himself up to think this wasn't really a date. They met at the YMCA after he had come home from a 4 day trip. Ruth with her hair wet from swimming and Will in his uniform. They were both trying to keep it casual. No expectations. They proceeded to eat sushi and Ruth fell out of the car and then walked around Nashville where she proceeded to spit off the bridge and pick the wrong kind of ice-cream. This guy was a goner as far as Ruth was concerned. Will went home and told his sister he had found the girl he wanted to be with for the rest of his life. At least he was pretty sure.

The next few weeks in Nashville were full of lunches at Applebees (where Ruth was working at the time and she thought Will just drove 20 min for the burgers:), Canoeing at the lake, boating on Percy Priest, Fireworks by the river, Humid runs and an agreement to try the courting relationship. Will even went on two dates with Ruth's dad so they could keep seeing each other. It was good to have the family involved and kept the relationship where it should be, focused on the Lord.

Alas though it was time to leave. Ruth already had plans to move to California and with a truck and a roommate in hand she was going through with it. The couple sat on a hammock before hand trying to define their relationship. Ruth told will she just wanted to know if he began to see anyone else while she was gone. Will said there was not chance of this. She was beginning to learn what a man of his word he was and is.

Will kept his word and the pursuit of a relationship with his new found princess over the miles. He encouraged her through long phone conversations and turned her head with bouquets at the door. The first chance available he came out to California. Ruth really began to think, who is this man? The month of August was spent traveling. Marcelle, Ruth's cousin and roommate, Ruth, and Will made the unconquerable trio as they traversed from Tahoe to LA around San Fran, by the beach and then back again. Disneyland was a highlight as Will and Ruth ran around in their Mickey and Minnie ears. They realized this was something special as they talked of respect and friendship to the sound of waves. A wonderful week in September was spent in Colorado watching the aspens turn and biking in the mountains. Individually they wondered, Is this love?

Will continued to be a friend to Ruth as she began her first job and flowers were waiting at the unit. He helped her move into her first apartment and surprised her after a boring day of orientation. He stretched his tastebuds and learned to like sushi and food from the orient. Ruth started thinking of trying to eat chicken, a big step for a vegetarian:) They were learning to pray together and share what the Lord was teaching them.

Thanksgiving was spent together in Nashville again. It was a sweet time as Ruth had not returned home since moving to CA. Will took Ruth to PF Chang's and in a momentous night told her that he loved her. He had never told a woman that he loved her in 33 year. Well besides that one time....:) But this meant he wanted to spend his life, the rest of his life with her. She didn't realize this at the time but knew it was a sweet thing to be loved by this man.

Time rolled on...December was spent at a wedding in CO, January apart as Ruth's friends came to San Fran, February and March between Tahoe and Colorado and San Fran just skiing, snowmobiling, sledding, biking in the park, and learning about the individuals that God had made them. They were falling in love. Learning how to disagree civilly and relate unselfishly. Discovering how to forgive and encourage one another to love the Lord more diligently. They knew there was real life to come but began to realize there were no coincidences. That meeting at church was divinely ordained.

They realized real life was to come and knew they wanted to tackle it together.

Thanksgiving 2005

2006-07-02T01:46:00.000-07:00

The journey

2006-06-29T03:43:00.000-07:00

There are times in life where you look back and wonder why and how things and people have come in to play. If one was able to predict accurately and verbally communicate all that life had in store and the twists it would take, most likely we would mostly live in states of disbelief and avoidance. So I thought this might be a good way to get the story and the history of Will and Ruth out there for those who might not have heard and those who just want to know more about the when where and how of how our two lives came together and how life unfolds in ways that we would never have guessed. Thanks for being a part of our journey through your thoughts and prayers.

Willis and Ruthie