March, 2007

Saturday, March 24th, 2007. Yes, yes, it's true.  I have been a sluggard reporter.  I could claim that I was on assignment for six weeks on Baffin Island where there is no internet access, but that would be a lie.  Because Christie continues to become stronger and to feel gradually more and more energetic there has been so little in the way of distressing news to report.  That is God's kindness to me and to all of the little Turnbulls.  Thank you for praying for her.  Christie and I were talking about what things were like one year ago this month and we are amazed.  For one thing, I don't want to do that again.  For another, it is rather incredible to think how God carried us through that difficult time.  In fact, we find ourselves remembering it as though it were an episode on another planet or from another lifetime.  When we reflect this way, it also brings to our minds how graciously and generously many of you encouraged and prayed for us.  Thank you! 

Christie's arm continues to give her no pain whatsoever.  She is on a very disciplined exercise regimen.  She is also on a very low-fat diet since recent research has discovered that recurrence risks are apparently reduced by being careful not to eat much fat.  By contrast, I continue my moderate to high-fat diet.  Recent medical research has told me nothing about the apparent benefits of a high-fat diet, but my own researches confirm that apple cobbler, apple pie and pancakes with syrup are just plain yummy and therefore necessary.  I can't say that Christie's careful eating has had no effect on me, however.  I am now at least more aware of the fat content in the foods I am still intentionally consuming. 

The big thing we have been praying for consistently regarding Christie's health has been the insomnia.  Our sincere hope is that this condition is a product of the Herceptin treatments (which are slated to end in mid-May!) and that once those cease she will be able to actually sleep.  Though she takes very short naps through the course of the night, she is doing all that a mother of seven does, and even cheerfully.  And though I worry about how she is making it, I am really proud of her, too.  We would be thankful for your prayers that Chris could sleep.

Isabella is on the verge of walking.  She prefers to feed herself now.  She also likes to have the attention of all of her siblings.  She performs many tricks to get their attention.  Sometimes she yells.  At other times she starts clapping.  Last night she decided to imitate her mother's insomnia and had two big sisters feeding and talking to her at a very late hour.  Though she woke up crying, I don't think she was suffering by the time she was put back in bed.  But sometimes the stress of managing this household can wear her right out, even in the middle of meals, as you can see in the picture. 

May the Lord bless your celebration of Resurrection Day as it approaches.