Debi Pryde 

December 1, 2008

Tom went in for his quarterly pulmonary function tests on Monday. Judging by the way he has been feeling we would have guessed his numbers to be significantly lower. Were we ever surprised to learn they were the same, if not better, than his last numbers in June. We feel quite blessed that the IPF has been moving slowly as we know this is not the usual progression this far into the disease. Of course, we are aware that things could nosedive at any time--but it sure has been good to enjoy a relatively normal life.

Tom is still filling in for the school administrator of our Christian school and enjoying the kids and teens. He's extremely tired when he comes home, but all and all, with the help of the staff, he's been holding up very well.

A few months ago Tom brought home a brand new Hummer. Gas prices were at their highest so GM was offering awesome incentives plus Tom still gets his GM employee discount. The Hummer will make carting around oxygen equipment a lot easier and will also handle the electric wheelchair lift and wheelchair we still own that was my dad's. For now the wheelchair isn't needed, but we know eventually it will make the difference between going places and not going places. Since we have never been the kind of people to "veg" at home much, we definitely want to make plans to stay as mobile and active as is possible for as long as possible. The added bonus with the Hummer is that it can go off-road, so Tom has been having a blast learning all the ins and outs of "off roading" and studying topographical maps, etc. We've been making little mini trips around the southern California area and having a great time exploring together. It's something Tom can do without getting out of breath and also gives him mobility of a different kind.

Folks have asked what I'm "up to" in light of Tom's illness, so here's the answer! We made the decision together to continue doing what we have each been doing with as few alterations as possible, knowing as things worsen, both our schedules will need to be reassessed and adjusted. So, I've continued to do some speaking, counseling, and am also doing more writing. RBP just finished the ladies Bible study book I worked on last summer (Glimpses of God) and I'm working on a second. I'm also continuing to work on counseling materials in partnership with Ironwood here in California. Believe me, with a husband home much more than in the past, I've got plenty to keep me busy and out of trouble!

We are excited about spending Christmas with our daughter, son in law, and grandchildren in a few weeks. (Tom is probably more excited about Christmas vacation than his students!) Our son in law is being deployed after Christmas, so we are happy we can see him before he heads out to do a humanitarian medical mission for children who have suffered burns and trauma. He is excited about the opportunity, but of course, not looking forward to the absence from family.

Thomas and Martha are still traveling across the country and having a great time. They will be spending Christmas with Martha's family. The kids are really looking forward to being with their numerous cousins (over 50) and grandma Mulfinger. We are excited for them and can't wait to hear all about their adventures!

May you all enjoy a truly blessed Christmas as we rejoice and marvel at the miracle of God coming to earth long ago in order to redeem us from our sin! Those who have put their trust in Christ truly can sing, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth, peace and good will toward men."

As Tom and I say quite often these days, "Happy trails to you!"

According to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death. Philippians 1:20