SPECIAL MOMENTS WE SHARE KEEP US STRONG

Yesterday Gary (left), Ron, and I went to the Smoky Mountain Brewery that just opened in Turkey Creek in Knoxville, Tennessee.

We each enjoyed “red pale ale” which is not advertised, but is from their seasonal menu – you have to ask for it. At first, a strong “hoppy” taste attacks your taste buds, but after a couple of sips they relax and begin to beg for it!

We made small talk about Ron’s recent health issues, reassuring him things would work out. Little did we know that Ron would get the results of a lung biopsy he had on Monday, after getting home that afternoon. The news was not positive…he does have a small spot of lung cancer on a lower lobe of one lung. Since the presence was detected so early, and the fact that he’s in such great shape, there is no reason he will not be fine.

Please pray for him, as he is very important to our family. Thanks.

We also discussed our recent efforts to reduce our food intake, and I related my pork tenderloin, and nut-encrusted recipes (which I have posted on Mushy’s Cookings). Naturally, since Ron rides his bicycle a couple of times a week, hikes, kayaks, and generally exercises, he needs much less control than we do.

Anyway, Wednesday was a “Knight’s Day Out” (at least for those of us old retirees) and we splurged on the calories. Gary and I got the wonderful Grilled Rueben (pictured) with sliced corned beef and sauerkraut, topped with sour cream and melted cheese, with a green bean side! Ron tackled the Chicken Cheese Philly with sliced chicken with grilled fresh peppers and onions, topped with melted cheese, and fries on the side!

After another “red ale” to wash it all down, we crossed the street to the Irish Times Pub & Restaurant for dessert – a very nice black & tan, drawn by prepared to perfection!

As a follow up, I spoke with Ron this morning and he is in good spirits. Days like Wednesday are important to us all (The Knights) and we don’t intend to let this get us down. Together, with our combined prayers, we shall prevail!

UPDATE: Ron's PET scan revealed that he has no other occurrence of cancer in his body. It is localized to one spot on a lower lobe, which means he will probably not have to have chemo! This is the best news possible. I prayed that he would not be weakened or down long with this, because he loves the outdoors so much. God is good!

Thanks for all your thoughts, comments, and prayers!