A Trip to DC and a Hard Week

     While Vern & Kali were off to Peru doing dental work & exploring, I took the boys to Washington, DC with my mom & younger brother, Matt.  We had a great time visiting there, & I had lots of strength & energy.  I don't think there was anything that we left undone--which is amazing, considering that everyone else & their dog were there for Spring Break & the city was a bit crowded.  Matt & I even did some driving in the DC traffic!  We were met there by our Hatch cousins, who live in Virginia, & really enjoyed experiencing all the wonderful history of that area with them.  We just wish the trip could have lasted longer!
     The day after we returned, last Monday, I went in for my chemo treatment.  I seemed to be doing well, & there weren't any changes with the physical exam, but the next day my CA-125 #'s came back, & they've gone from 58 up to 71.  It's not a lot, but enough that we need to make changes (again).  Dr. Prystas is recommending that we keep doing this treatment, but do it 2 weeks in a row, with 1 week off.  Hopefully, this will be keeping enough of the drugs in my system to keep the cancer at bay.  That same day, we received the news that my cousin, Eric, & his family had lost their 17-year old son to an unexpected death.  My heart has ached for them, & my spirits have been pretty low all week.  What a blessing it has been to watch & listen to General Conference!  It truly is a healing balm to the soul.  It is spiritual nourishment to my heart to be able to feast upon the words of Christ & His gospel at this time.  President Uchtdorf's message this morning has seemed especially relevant to life's circumstances.  How thankful I am for the "light" of the Savior, & the sure knowledge I have that we need not live in darkness, doubt & fear...for He has overcome the world & we can put our trust in Him.  I am continually thankful for your faith & prayers on my behalf.  Hopefully, there will be better news to share in the future.  Love always, Kim