Welcome to A Gravel Road Journey!

NOT SO LONG AGO, Dad RE-named his art studio, "A Gravel Road Studio", and so this seemed an appropiate title for his blog.

Why 'Gravel Road'? As Dad explains, "Gravel roads take us off life's busy highway and force us to slow down. When we slow down we have time - time to notice the things around us; the things that matter the most; life and breath, the flowers and the trees. Gravel roads allow us to taste the dust of our travel and give us time to breathe."

Since his studio is a place of quiet reflection and contemplation, we wanted to create a space for family and friends to do the same as we journey together down this new and unknown path. We also wish to keep family and friends updated on his diagnoses and treatment, so please check in often for updates and new information.

Tuesday, May 26, 2009

The Journey Continues

Just got home from another long day at Riverview. Dad was in a lot of pain this morning and was asking for all of the family to come to the hospital. After sitting there for the majority of the day, everyone but Mom went home for a bit of rest and so the kids (Xavier and Shaela) could nap. We're planning on going back this evening, and we're not quite sure what will happen, but I think Dad was feeling this morning like the end was definitely near. The nurses said sometimes patient's know, but sometimes they are wrong and it still takes a few days or weeks before they pass away. It's the not knowing exactly when that makes it so hard. You want to stay there and be with Dad when it happens, but at the same time, you need to break. Especially for Xavier and Shaela - it's hard on them being couped up at the hospital all day.

Anyway...just wanted to let everyone know what was going on, and to ask for more prayers. Please pray for peace and strength for the family, and for peace about everything for Dad. I'll keep everyone updated if there are any more changes in his condition.

4 comments:

Diane said...

Your family remains in my thoughts and prayers. I pray that Gerald would feel the presence of his Lord and Saviour. May you all continue to find comfort and peace in your heavenly Father. He is there with all of you in this very difficult time. I have been where you are now and I know how hard it is sitting there all day long not knowing what will happen.
Know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Blessings
Diane

Anonymous said...

When I wake up in the morning, when I go to sleep at night, and throughout the day, I remember Gerald and each one of you and pray. And I am reminded as I pray that God is present at every moment. May Gerald's journey towards eternal life be a gentle and peaceful surrender to God's loving embrace. May each one of you be graced with the strength of faith and hope as you journey with him.

Blessings,

Raymond Ares

Anonymous said...

Your presence is of such value. At this terrible time of grace and blessing, you will not be sorry for the time spent, for the love given, for the tears shed.

God's nearness and strength to you all.
Lynne McCarthy

Unknown said...

It's difficult to walk through the valley, especially when you don't know what's around the corner or where the bumps are in the path. Just know that so, so many people of faith are walking alongside you, and the great Shepherd knows every twist and turn already. Though the path seems unclear and often dark, he is your guide - he knows the way home.

Hardly a waking hour goes by without my thinking of you and breathing yet another prayer.

Shalom,
Joan R.