Henry:

I am pleased to report that Paul made it through yesterday’s procedure without complication. His first words upon awakening were: "I'm alright". After getting a positive report from his doctor, Paul was released from the Lansing Surgery Center (approximately 2:30 p.m.). He walked to the truck with the assistance of a very nice nurse. After a light lunch, Paul retired to his home to rest for the remainder of the day. He was not able to operate heavy machinery or farm equipment until today. He wishes to thank those who forwarded messages of support. Also, Henry would like you to know that photos are available upon request!!

Paul's Procedure

A special thanks to Hank for this update:

Tomorrow, March 23, 2010, Paul will be undergoing an endoscopic examination of his colon and the distal part of his small bowel with a fiber optic camera on a flexible tube passed through his anus – this is commonly referred to as a colonoscopy. The procedure will occur sometime after the hour of 1:00 p.m. Rest assured that he will be comfortable during the procedure as drugs will be used to induce a deep sleep. The procedure will take place at the Lansing Surgical Center on Lake Lansing Road. He is expected to be released tomorrow afternoon after a short stay in the recovery room. Visitors are welcome during and after the procedure. Arrangements have been made to get him to and from the procedure.

Today, Paul is fasting in preparation for the procedure. Please keep him in your thoughts and prayers throughout the day today and tomorrow. Text messages can be forwarded to him on his phone or posted on the P.A.R.P. blog. Thank you.

WE ARE ALWAYS LOOKING FORWARD

Hope you enjoy this clip from Camporama '09.
At at the end of her presentation, Tía says, "We are always look forward."
Good advice, Tía.
She is full of it.

Inspiration

"Life isn't about surviving the storm. It's about how to dance in the rain."

From Aunt Claudia

A Simple Reminder- Ashleigh

I’ve been thinking a lot about what I wanted to write in my first post. Today gave me an answer. This morning I woke up on the wrong side of the bed, if you can believe that, and my day was going a little less than perfect. I stopped by my parents’ house on my way back to school to grab a few things and ended up having a short and sweet breakfast with my mom. I left there with a different mind set and feeling refreshed. I had once again lost site of what is important in the day. My mom set me straight, like she does, and sent me on my way. I smiled to myself and thanked God for FAMILY. We are so blessed to have each other for the good times and for the hard times too. Sometimes we just need a simple reminder of what’s important. So, for my first post, I’m going to share with you something that’s pretty special to me. When I'm having a rough day or need a few words of encouragement, I know I can find it in my family. This is part of a letter from Bonz:

“When I think of the sweetest thing ever, I think of the Big Man Himself, Jesus. God works in mysterious ways… lots of times down-right CRAZY ways… but it is in faith, hope, and love we can do ANYTHING! The greatness, beauty, and awe of God are things I couldn’t put into words… even if I was good old BILLY Shakespeare. As long as you keep those virtues, there’s nothing you can’t tackle! Especially with the ‘Big Man Upstairs’ on your side! YOU ARE LOVED more than you’ll ever know! Enjoy God’s time and put everything else in the back of your mind. This is YOUR time, and I know you’ll make it the best it will be!”

Music

Claudia Loto requested the song at the top of our playlist. It's called It Might Be Hope by Sara Groves. Claud has suggested it as a dedication to Brett and Claudia Lundberg.

Marysue suggested Dream Big, and Amy Jo requested The Riddle.

If YOU have a music request, let us know!

A Message from Amy Jo

This is amazing! I can't describe the overload of emotions I felt when I got the email about the revival of PARP... I read the email while waiting for Brett to finish with todays chemo.
Needless to say the Stornant tears started flowing... for so many reasons. Mainly because it made me remember what an inspiration Bonz is. I miss you Bonz
I hope to be a huge contributor to this "newsletter" blog. And thank you! Sometimes we all need a little PARP!!!
Love you guys
Amy Jo

The Beginning of the Beginning

Thanks to everyone who has already emailed us and given us cool things to add to the blog! It only makes sense that we begin with the beginning. Thanks Mike S.!!