bittersweet times

In a phone call tonight to Waikato Hospital, Bronwyn spoke to her mother and then to her father, who remains an inpatient there. They had just finished meeting with the Consultant, who told them that their tests so far have suggested there may be some form of growth or tumour. While we will remain positive, this is obviously not a good development and is most upsetting. The doctors plan further tests: a bone scan, a CT scan, a biopsy. The nature of the biopsy apparently means that it will take one to two weeks to get the further results. It is possible any growth may have been related to the cause of the fracture, which was identified when David was admitted to hospital. It is a hard thing to be so far away at a time like this. David and Jenny, you have our love, and our prayers. We place our trust in God, who we know will protect and keep you both in all things, now and always.

Yet in the midst of our suffering, there are also the seeds of life and joy. We are pleased to now be able to extend warm congratulations to Stephanie, Bronwyn's sister, and Michael Chernishov, who have announced their engagement! We long to celebrate with them in person, and will be pleased to extend a warm welcome to the family to Michael—when we meet him! Due to quirks of time and space, though Michael has been on the scene for a more-than-respectable time now, the truth is we're yet to lay eyes on the man. Or more to the point, yet to take the measure of him. You see, it has been suggested that Michael may indeed be taller than my good self. All I can say is: many are called, few are chosen... and I've heard that story before. But regardless, Michael, welcome! We look forward to the many happy memories we shall all create together, as a family.

Then in the midst of all this, after an inset day (teachers only day) yesterday, Bronwyn starts her first day back at school tomorrow. So for Stephanie and Michael, for Bronwyn, for Jenny, and most especially for David, your prayers are coveted tonight.