Doing dishes,

Sweeping floors,

Keeping up with laundry.

Although these everyday things hold no joy right now. Not that mundane household chores are ever a supreme source of joy, but usually I can take some satisfaction in them.

Avoiding foods with serotonin in preparation for my carcinoid test on Monday,

Giving my kids an extra hug every now and then,

Trying to think positive thoughts,

Forcing myself to go to a NYE party tonight even though I’d rather curl up in a ball and sleep till the test results come in.

During a stressful time in my past, I received a great little piece of advice, “Just do the next thing.”

That about sums up my life right now. Taking life one moment at a time, trying not to think too far ahead.

Here’s hoping 2007 is full of hope and promise — for our family and yours.

I’ll leave you with this, my favorite passage of Scripture, the one I always cling to in times of anxiety, from the letter to the Philippians, chapter 4:

4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!

5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.

6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable — if anything is excellent or praiseworthy — think about such things.

Happy New Year!  Wishing you a blessed 2007.