I apologize for not having updated my blog since January 9th! I know that many of you are concerned that I haven't been well enough to write a blog, but that is not the case. On Feb 6th we started a bathroom renovation to make a "roll in" shower and I had expected that the bathroom reno would be the topic of my next blog, but it's not done yet, so that's why I've been waiting...
During March and April I've been keeping myself busy preparing tax returns for friends and family. Preparing tax returns is fun!! My keyboarding skills are getting a bit weaker -- especially in my left hand -- but they are good for now! My chewing and swallowing is as good as usual. My back muscles are almost all gone, so I find it very hard to stand up straight. It's much easier to walk hunched over, but that hurts my lower back in the motion of sitting or getting up out of a chair. I've had three incidents in the past four months where my legs simply gave out and I collapsed straight down to the floor. Fortunately, there were no long-term (or short-term) injuries as a result of those falls. In the end, I think my pride in my ability to walk on my own was keeping me from using a walker. But now, I'm using a walker both inside the house and outside because I never know when my legs will give up.
Every day, I try to focus, with joy, on the things I can do rather than worrying about the things I can no longer do. Keeping a spirit of Joy is very important. As Jesus says in the Bible in John 15:11 "These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full".
One of the things that brings me much joy this weekend are the three most important women in my life who are all mothers...
Here's my mom, Orian Steele, holding her great-grandson, Mason Eric Schmitt.
What a blessing to have a mother who has always cared about her six children. She has raised us well and she loves family time.
Here's my daughter, Hannah, eight years ago on the birth of her daughter Skylar. Hannah is now the mother of two children, including Mason! Hannah, you are a gracious and loving mother and I am proud to see our family legacy continue through your genes!
And, finally, the loving and courageous mother of our two children, Hannah and Deagan...my dear wife Cathy.
This picture was taken back in 1990 before we were married. Cathy is absolutely beautiful on the outside and full of love on the inside! I am so thankful for our 32 year relationship and for Cathy's courage to assist me through this ALS journey. Where would I be without her?
And I'm also thankful for my sisters Kim and Jill and my sisters-in-law Nancy, Marie, Cindy and Barb. All great mothers and friends of mine.
I am blessed and loved by family and by God! Thanks for being on this journey with me. I've updated the prayer points which you can find on the home page of the website or using this link https://www.faith-over-fear.ca/blank-page
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.
Romans 15:13