Last weekend I was able to head out to Goldendale to spend some time with Mom and Dad. I have been so frustrated with finding myself unemployed yet again, but realized that at this moment in time it has been a blessing that has allowed me to spend much more time with my parents than I would have been otherwise been allowed.
I arrived Friday afternoon to find both Mom and Dad in good spirits, feeling fairly well but tired.
Sabbath, after Church we went on a beautiful, albeit windy walk. Dad seemed to have more energy than I've seen in him for awhile.
I stayed an extra day and spent all day Sunday burning a big pile of brush and feeding that fire with another big pile of branches.....the same branches I helped Dad stack the last time I was there from a sad tree that fell into the garden in the most recent storm.
It felt good to do something for Dad; to carry some of the load for him. I did all the heavy lifting and then we sat in lawn chairs babysitting the fire and just talking. Dad told me some stories I'd never heard and at the end of the day I felt I had gotten to know the most important man in my life just a little better.
It's strange how something like this can bring people closer. The long drive, three and a half hours one way for me, doesn't seem nearly as long as it used to and I would go a lot further than that if I needed to. In a few days I'll be back to burn more brush, stack more wood, and maybe even make a retaining wall by the driveway. And I'm sure I'll juice a few carrots too.
Dad has spent years, most his life, sacrifising and working for me, my brother and sister, and our mom. It feels good to be able to give a little back to him.
Love you, Dad.
~Chaunda
Beautiful entry Chaunda. Thank you for writing and for going and burning brush! You're a good girl. xo
ReplyDeleteWell said Chaunda dear, thank you for experessing your thoughts so beautifully. Walking this journey is easier for having you walk portions of it with us. Love you!xoxoxo
ReplyDeleteJust wanted to say I am thinking of your family through this trial. As a nurse I'm not going to comment on any of the treatments you are trying because even though I understand the medical side of it, I also saw my grandmother go through traditional cancer treatment and I know how horrible that was. So I say-whatever you want to try- do it! I will continue praying for the VanTassel's and looking forward to a day that we won't have these old bodies to rely on and the sadness the comes with this life here!
ReplyDeleteThe time you get to spend with the ones dear to you are precious no matter what you are doing. But helping carrying a load means so much I am sure. It does make you feel good to do good.
ReplyDeleteStill thinking of your whole family and wishing you well.
Love,
Amy
Thank you Chaunda for your work. It was nice talking. I felt I got to know you a little better. I feel honored that I am the most important man in your life. (Don't tell Patrick :o) ) You are very important in my life too. Love you Chaunda, Dad (Leland)
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