Ephesians 5:20 …..always giving thanks to God the Father for everything…

Here I sit on the couch feeling like a dishrag. It’s day #4 of being sick with a parasite. But we are encouraged to think of the good things and we are exhorted to be thankful in all circumstances. So, even in the midst of a parasite invading my body, I have had time to think on the things that are ‘good’ about this situation.

First, I have a wonderful husband who has patiently been by my side the whole time, offering me assistance, drinks, peace and quiet, chicken soup and keeping well meaning friends from waking me up when they came to visit! He has answered the Peruvian phone! (That’s amazing since he doesn’t like to.) During this time, I have run a fever, and complained of the heat and without considering the future electric bill, he has kept the fan going for me, and moved it from room to room according to where I have been spending my time! Thank you Lord for my thoughtful, loving husband.

We have a Peruvian friend who has visited with food, with re-hydration medicine, cipro, and herb tea. Another ‘ordered’ and paid for the medicines. They have called to check up on me again this morning. Another friend brought home made soup and dinner. In fact 3 meals have been provided us. These friends have shown their love in ways I didn’t expect. There are Americans who have written and called to ask how I was doing and to make sure I was getting what I needed.

But, I am thankful for the comfortable place to lay my head, the luscious showers with an abundance of clean water, a clean bathroom, electricity for the fan, friends who have taken care of our every need, praying FaceBook friends, praise music CDs, for a measure of increased strength each day, and for daughters who are concerned (although they need not be!)

We had to cancel several engagements. Everyone has been so understanding and accepting of our apologies. But more than that, they have shown concern for me rather than any concern for the change in plans. Not be able to attend the graduation and reception of a friend was a big disappointment. Visiting another friend, who is in her last days with cancer, had to be postponed. Hosting our second UNO tournament with friends was cancelled. There was no way we could help in VBS this week as planned. A trip to the UPS for shipping some packages to the USA for friends is not happening until next week. A trip to Hope House Don made on his own one day to handle a matter in Bridget’s and Greg’s absence.

This time has given me the opportunity to catch up on some much needed sleep. We had some friends visiting here from GA and NC for a week and with the summer pre-planning tasks in their schedule, there was little time to get more than a few winks at a time. It has also allowed me extra time to think, pray and even write this blog, although it has taken me two days, between naps to get this far. Yes, I have so much to be thankful for even in these circumstances.