Janiver's Journey

Moving On

2009-06-05T11:02:00.000-07:00

This has been a busy few weeks. We rejoiced to see our daughter, Bethany, graduate from Sacramento State University with a Bachelor's degree in Audiology and Speech Pathology. She graduated with honors and was highlighted in the speech given by the dean of the college. We were bursting buttons, I can tell you.

Next week our son, Nathaniel, will graduate from high school. We are so proud of him. He is planning to attend the local community college for a couple of years then pursue a long time dream of becoming an electrician and elevator repairman.

I have another CT scan and MRI next week. The surgeons will review those and get back to me with their recommendations. Continue to pray.

May God go with you all today and keep you on your journey.

Janiver

The Rock

2009-05-15T16:35:00.000-07:00

I enjoyed a day at Western District Conference. So good to see friends I haven't seen for months. I was touched by your constant reminder of your prayers. Thank you, thank you.

I woke up this morning meditating on my God. I was thinking how one feels trapped in situations like the one I'm in. My mother used to say that she felt she was between "a rock and a hard place." I thought about that. Then thought "Well, as long as the Rock is Jesus, I'll be ok."

And he said, The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer;
The God of my rock; in him will I trust: he is my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my high tower, and my refuge, my savior; thou savest me from violence. 2 Samuel 22:2, 3

I love you all.

Checking in

2009-04-27T14:20:00.000-07:00

Just checking in with all of you who are still with me in this. Faithful friends. I have a PET scan next week so have a two week break from Chemo. Nice. Except I got sick with a cold. Poor timing. (smile)

I just received a call from a surgeon in Oakland who is willing to see me and consider surgery. We shall see. God is faithful and He knows exactly what I need.

"Offer unto God thanksgiving; and pay thy vows unto the most High:
And call upon me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me." Psalm 50:14, 15

May God give you peace today.

Promises, promises

2009-04-07T06:44:00.000-07:00

You all know that God has given me many promises about this journey. It seems that the longer you travel the fewer the signposts. It has been a long, long, straight road with nothing in sight but more Chemo. Discouraging. Yet God IS faithful who HAS promised. In prayer the last few weeks I have petitioned for a fresh reminder of His Word to me and I got it yesterday from Bro. Price. God bless my pastor who is full of wisdom and faith. There are surprisingly few people who can transmit faith to another in such a powerful way.

I want to thank Anita Harding for her visit with me last week at Section 6 Conference. She encouraged my spirit in a powerful way. God bless you, girl.

"We don't know when our miracle will come, but God may bring it in a quiet way that we do not suspect." P. Price

I love you all,

Janiver

'Tis me

2009-03-30T20:49:00.000-07:00

Hello, hello. I've had a good couple of weeks. Enjoying family and the routine of life. God has been my source of strength. It is a blessing to know He is everything I need emotionally, spiritually, physically and intellectually. Thank you all for your continued prayers. Another CT scan in a couple weeks...still believing for my miracle. Love you all.

March Already

2009-03-13T11:09:00.000-07:00

Sorry, to all you faithful people who check this, that I haven't updated in a while. No new news as to my situation. I go to the Doctor today and have a CT scan in a few weeks. God has been a great source of strength. It is amazing that the lower you go into a valley, the more real and more precious He becomes. I am going to Sacramento today to visit my children there and to attend Ladies Conference tonight. That will be a nice break. Nathaniel will be going with me. He is now a licensed driver and enjoying his bright orange 1973 Chevy Nova - or American Muscle car - he likes to call it. It sure is noisy!

Love you all, and will update this again in a week or so.

February News

2009-02-19T09:27:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends,

Well, it is back to the Chemotherapy routine. Every Monday. Every week. Things are going pretty well. The Dr. has reduced my drugs by 25% since I began, so the symptoms are much easier to cope with. My feet hurt almost constantly, but that is about the worst of it.

I had a CT scan last week which shows the tumor may have shrunk a little. Still no news of a surgeon that is willing to do the surgery necessary to remove this little beast. I trust God to do a work where no man can.

Clayton and I took our little motor home to Monterey and Pacific Grove over the Valentine's week. Enjoyed a few days of total relaxation. Love those waves.

A little bragging is in order. Bethany was unanimously nominated by her professors for the Dean's list for Sacramento State University. If chosen by the final committee she will be one of a hundred students in the five colleges there. She was chosen from about 170 students for this honor. Congrats Bethany. We are so proud of you.

Stan is working hard on his degree in nursing. It is amazing the schedule he keeps. Nathaniel is looking forward to his driving test and a little more independence. Smile. Sarah is enjoying her new job and is doing very well at it. I understand that a couple of the engineering teams are vying for her help.

Thank you for your continued prayers.

Much love to you all,

Janiver

Good Days

2009-01-30T11:14:00.000-08:00

I have had some good days lately. It is good to feel good. Never take good health for granted. It is indeed a gift. God has blessed me with a great many good things and I thank Him. I have begun Chemo treatments again and will give you updates as I learn anything new. Thank you for your many prayers.

"I would seek unto God, and unto God would I commit my cause:
Which doeth great things and unsearchable; marvellous things without number: "
Job 5:8, 9

Your friend,

Janiver

New Year News

2009-01-10T12:13:00.000-08:00

I am enjoying my month off from Chemotherapy. Each day is a gift. Our children have been home from college adding that extra spark that makes life so meaningful. Stan and I have cleaned out a couple of closets at home and cleared out Clayton's library at the church. What a job! It is amazing how liberated you feel to see those boxes of unused items go out the door.

I am thankful for family and friends and to my God for His continual blessings. He has renewed his promises to me for this year. I have hope because I have HIM.

And I will establish my covenant between me and thee and thy seed after thee in their generations for an everlasting covenant, to be a God unto thee, and to thy seed after thee.
Genesis 17:7

May God's richest blessings rest on you today.

Your friend,

Janiver

The Scan

2008-12-22T10:00:00.000-08:00

I had a PET scan last Wednesday and met with the Dr. on Friday.
She said there is nothing new. The two spots she thought were new cancers are not.
So we will continue Chemotherapy for now.
It still doesn't look like surgery is an option at the moment.

Thank you for your continued prayers. I am still believing for a miracle. My God IS able.

Janiver

A Blessed Christmas

2008-12-18T14:33:00.000-08:00

We want to take this time to wish you all a blessed Christmas. When I count my blessings, each of you are on that list. May God richly reward you with peace and joy during this season that we remember why He came.

And Mary said, My soul doth magnify the Lord,
And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Savior.
For he hath regarded the low estate of his handmaiden: for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed.
For he that is mighty hath done to me great things; and holy is his name.
And his mercy is on them that fear him from generation to generation.
He hath shewed strength with his arm; he hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts.
He hath put down the mighty from their seats, and exalted them of low degree.
He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent empty away.
He hath helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy. Luke 1 : 46-54

Update on Me

2008-12-08T20:04:00.000-08:00

The king shall joy in thy strength, O LORD; and in thy salvation how greatly shall he rejoice!

Thou hast given him his heart's desire, and hast not withholden the request of his lips. Selah.

For thou preventest him with the blessings of goodness: thou settest a crown of pure gold on his head.

He asked life of thee, and thou gavest it him, even length of days for ever and ever.
Psalm 21:1 - 4

This was my scripture this week. I was so discouraged a few days ago and opened the Psalms for some much needed solace and I read this chapter first. I thank God for Joy in Strength and Blessings of Goodness.

I want to give honor to a wonderful man of God, Everett Kimmel, who went to be with Jesus yesterday. He stormed the beaches at Omaha on D-Day and God gave him 64 more years to serve Him. He was a blessing to our church while he was here. He gave the kids a hero to look up to. We'll miss you, Bro. Kimmel.

My PET scan is scheduled next Wednesday. The two weeks of Chemo before my break. Thank you all for your faithful prayers and friendship.

Much love,

Janiver

Thanksgiving Greetings

2008-11-27T10:58:00.000-08:00

I'm praying a special blessing on all my friends this Thanksgiving Day. May you enjoy time with family and friends and remember the ONE who makes it all possible.

I played hooky from treatment this week...just couldn't face it. So I'm enjoying a few days with my kids without the burden of chemo junk.

I love all of you and am so thankful for your faithful friendship through this past year. I depend on your prayers and your support more than you may realize. It seems that when I face a particularly tough day, one of you will write or call and have just the right word of encouragement for me. That is the beauty of the network of prayer and the family of God.

Love and prayers,

Janiver

Muddy Jordan

2008-11-16T17:42:00.000-08:00

These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. John 16:33

Naaman was told by the prophet to dip seven times in the muddy Jordan. He was not happy about that at all. But by his obedience he got his miracle. Sometimes I wonder why I have to go down 'seven' times in this muddy Jordan of chemotherapy, but this is the way that God has chosen. I will be obedient and rejoice when I am clear of this cancer.

Thank you for checking in on me and for your prayers,

Janiver

That HE might be glorified

2008-11-10T09:44:00.000-08:00

To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that HE MIGHT BE GLORIFIED.
Isaiah 61:3

Hello to all my friends and family. We are all doing pretty well. Looking forward to my chemo break in January, when my children will be out of school to help me enjoy it. God bless you all.

Janiver

A Weekend of Rejoicing

2008-10-27T09:47:00.000-07:00

What an awesome weekend we've had. Sharing memories and glorifying our God for bringing the church in Napa from tent to tabernacle. Friday night we visited the 'church on the hill', the first building that Bro. Price built here in Napa. We crowded into that little sanctuary and listened to testimonies of what God did there. Many pointed out the spot where they received their personal Pentecost. On Saturday we had a day of remembering what God has done since the move to the tabernacle on First Street. Many friends came who were a part of those great days. On Sunday we had an awesome service as we looked to the future and what God has in store for this city. His work is going on.

Ephesians 2:14 "For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition..."

Bro. Becton preached an awesome message on Sunday. We have many walls in our lives due to our personality and upbringing. We need to tear down the ones that hinder our effectiveness in serving God. Thomas had a wall of unbelief that separated him from a revelation. Jesus walked through that wall and ministered to him.

"...then came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace be unto you." John 20:26

God moved in a glorious way and His people responded in worship.

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No new news regarding my situation. My oncologist reported on Friday that my liver and kidney function and blood work look great...so on and on with chemotherapy. This is truly a long valley. To God be the glory.

May the God of peace richly bless you today with peace.

Janiver

Continuing on

2008-10-18T10:11:00.000-07:00

I just love October skies. The majesty of the cloud formations, the colors, the bird migrations ...Spectacular. We enjoyed a few days at the coast in Pacific Grove. That particular coastline is beautiful. I never tire of it. Our friends, the Gordon Richardsons, came down to spend the day with us. We had fun picking out some new hats, touring the shops in Carmel by the Sea, and eating together.

New Life Tabernacle here in Napa is gearing up for our 60th Anniversary next weekend. Ya'll come. Sixty years ago, Bro and Sis Price set up a tent and Bro. Becton preached our first revival service. The first Napa convert from that meeting still attends our church. What a blessing of continuity.

I am enduring my treatments pretty well. Still waiting to have another PET scan in a few weeks. Thank you, thank you, thank you for your continued prayers.

Your friend,

Janiver

Unexpected Blessings

2008-09-30T22:48:00.000-07:00

My husband was driving to church on Sunday morning and noticed a couple strolling near the church. The closer he got he realized he knew them and pulled over to greet them. Our pastors from Beaverton, Oregon had come down for a surprise visit. Bro. and Sis. Barry King were our first pastor as a married couple and what a blessing it was to sit under them for four years. God knows exactly what we need when we need it.

And I will give you pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding. Jeremiah 3:15

Bro. Booker once said "I have fallen into the hands of good men". And we have found that to be true in our lives as well. What a blessing to have men of God to feed us 'with knowledge and understanding' born of experience and wisdom.

I saw my oncologist on Friday. The tumor is still shrinking in size and cancer mass. The radiologist is unable to tell how much is scar tissue and how much is cancer at this point. My chemo treatments have been extended to an undetermined length of time.

Please pray with us as we meet with a surgeon on Thursday. I am facing some tough decisions.

Thank you for your support,

Janiver

Stale Crackers

2008-09-24T10:24:00.001-07:00

Have you ever sliced a perfect crisp Gala apple, some cheddar cheese and grabbed a few crackers and a good book, then sat down for a nice hour of relaxation...reached for a cracker, bit down only to discover it was stale? Well that's what people have told me about my blog lately, and I apologize. : ) It's been a tough two weeks dealing with Chemo junk. I won't bore you with the details...but I do appreciate your prayers lately.

I was laying down in my husband's office on Sunday morning, listening to the preaching and feeling a little blue. Satan was doing his best to discourage me. Then suddenly God renewed a promise to me. My husband began reading the scripture in Job that God had given me several years ago when I first began this battle with cancer.

Or who shut up the sea with doors, when it brake forth, as if it had issued out of the womb?
When I made the cloud the garment thereof, and thick darkness a swaddlingband for it,
And brake up for it my decreed place, and set bars and doors,
And said, Hitherto shalt thou come, but no further: and here shall thy proud waves be stayed? Job 38: 9- 11

And do you know what? It wasn't stale! God's promise was as fresh as the first day He gave it to me! Praise His Name. I am encouraged today in His Word.

We enjoyed a wonderful visit with Bro. and Sis. Doug Wright and their son Mark. Good friends. My brother in law Carl came this week to help us with some painting for our son's room. God has given us great people to help us through this valley. Thank you to you all for your prayers and help.

Your friend,

Janiver

More Chemo

2008-09-05T11:43:00.000-07:00

My mother is here this week from Oklahoma. I've enjoyed digging up memories with her.

My chemo this week was canceled. The pharmacy refrigerator died over the long weekend and all the chemo drugs died with it. I start again on Monday. I've enjoyed the well-timed break from the major symptoms.

"And I will very gladly spend and be spent for you..."
2Corinthians 12:15

This scripture has grabbed my attention recently. There are things that we give willingly to God and others and there are things that circumstances, etc. TAKE from us. But Paul said he was 'glad' to be used in all of it. Quite a goal to reach for. Tonight we are meeting with a couple that we met at chemo. They are very curious to know about the peace they sense around us. Pray with us that we can reach them with the knowledge of our Prince of Peace.

Thank you for your continued support and prayers.

Janiver

Empty Nest

2008-08-30T11:02:00.000-07:00

We are enjoying a brief visit from Stan who has a break from school. Shedding some tears because Bethany is moving to Sacramento to complete her Bachelor's program in Speech Pathology. (I'm so glad to still have Nathaniel at home. He's becoming a great friend.) Bethany is excited to be working with her professor on a project that gives her some great experience in testing and some treatment. Something she would normally not get until she's in a Master's program.

I am taking things a day at a time. Still have about three months of treatment. My oncologist is referring me to a surgeon to discuss some possibilities of surgery. Pray with me about that. God is good and allowing me enough strength for each day.

Your friend,

Janiver

Praying Friends

2008-08-18T20:13:00.001-07:00

We had such a wonderful time at Camp Meeting. Seeing friends, enjoying family, soaking up good preaching and teaching. We didn't realize how isolated we had become over the last six months. I was so encouraged by all of you and inspired by the closeness of this great family of God.

I was meditating on the Lord and His people one morning and God spoke to my heart. "If My people love you enough to hold you up in prayer, imagine how precious you are to Me." How true that is! These wonderful people, many of whom I'm merely acquainted with, pray for me daily, fervently, effectually because the God I serve has placed me in their hearts and minds. Those same prayers are answered by that same great God. How marvelous that He chooses to use us in this way. We need not be alone when we walk through dark valleys and climb treacherous mountains because our God and His family walk with us. Thank you Jesus and thank you to everyone of you who hold us up.

May our God, who is more than enough, richly bless you today.

Janiver

Great News!

2008-07-27T20:40:00.001-07:00

Clayton and I enjoyed a couple of days at Pacific Grove...bumming around thrift stores and sitting and watching the waves. Very relaxing.

Friday I had a doctor's appointment. She said the tumor has a vapor pocket in its center which indicates that it is dying! My CEA count is down to virtually zero...not enough cancer cells to count. Praise God. My cancer is in remission. We serve a great God. This progress is not entirely due to Chemotherapy....but to a miracle working God.

All glory and honor and praise belong to HIM who has heard our prayers.

Shout here.....dance here....

Thank you again for all your continued prayers. I will be in chemotherapy for about another 16 weeks...

See you at Camp Meeting in Santa Maria.

Janiver

July Already

2008-07-07T11:36:00.000-07:00

Nothing like letting TIME get away from you. Hope all my faithful friends out there are ok.

When I resumed Chemo, the Doctor reduced my dosage which helps my recovery to be speedier. So I feel stronger faster and better all around. Thank you for your continued thoughts and prayers for me. My next CT scan is on the 17th of this month. Still believing for miracles.

We had a brief visit from Stan. He is practically buried under studies, tests, projects, study groups, and this next week they will add Clinical study to the mix. He loves it though...except for the 'no sleep' part. smile

We enjoyed a visit with our friends Gordon and Sandi Richardson on the Fourth. Great people, good friends.

Love you all,

Janiver

"He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.
I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in Him will I trust. "
Psalm 91:1, 2

Chemo Break

2008-06-17T09:20:00.000-07:00

I have had a two-week break from Chemotherapy. I had a minor infection one week, then a very low white blood cell count the next. I go in tomorrow to see my doctor and possible treatment. It was a nice break, especially the last few days when I've actually felt good. But, God knows the way that I take...because He has arranged it.

Will check in again soon.

Janiver

His eye is on the sparrow

2008-06-08T13:04:00.000-07:00

I was so blessed to be in service this morning. Because of my Chemo schedule I am able to be in church maybe once every two weeks or so. My husband preached an encouraging message on the Fifth Sparrow.

Matthew 10:29 "Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. "

Luke 12:6 "Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, and not one of them is forgotten before God?"

In Luke we find there is a fifth sparrow thrown in for nothing, as it were. Sometimes we feel like nothing, of no value, but YOUR FATHER cares and loves us even though... The scripture tells us that WHILE we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. And yet as Christians we are so hard on ourselves for every fault. He STILL loves us and will bear us up.

The word sparrow in these passages is really the diminutive form for baby or small sparrow. No matter how small you feel you are of value. To your Heavenly Father and to me. Thank you all for your prayers and concern. God bless you today.

Janiver

Friends

2008-05-22T07:29:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday, our good friends Dennis and Valda Johnson from Albany, Oregon came by to have a meal with us. They also gave me a prayer cloth that had been prayed over on my behalf in their home church. I'm still believing for a miracle. I believe God has promised me many more years.

It is so refreshing to be with long - time friends. To pick up the threads and renew the old bonds with new memories. The older I grow, the more I cherish friends...old and new. They enrich me with fresh insights and outlooks, causing me to grow and stretch.

I'm learning to live with the chemo treatments and side effects. Learning to anticipate the next phase of discomfort and to forestall it with antidotes. Thank you for your prayers and comfort. For you do comfort me....more than you can know unless you too have suffered. We suffer in many ways in life, but He is the God of ALL comfort. Bless His Name.

Have a wonderful day today and may God enrich you with friends like yourselves.

Janiver

Doctor's Report

2008-05-15T16:50:00.000-07:00

I finished the initial 8 - week cycle last week. The CT Scan showed a 2 mm shrinkage of the tumor. Dr. Kolevska said the shrinkage would increase as the tumor mass shrinks. We are moving in the right direction.

Still trusting HIM.

On Mothers' Day morning the Lord gave me this scripture.

There is none like unto the God of Jeshurun (Israel), who rideth upon the heaven in thy help, and in his excellency on the sky.
The eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms: and he shall thrust out the enemy from before thee; and shall say, Destroy them.
Israel then shall dwell in safety alone: the fountain of Jacob shall be upon a land of corn and wine; also his heavens shall drop down dew.
Happy art thou, O Israel: who is like unto thee, O people saved by the LORD, the shield of thy help, and who is the sword of thy excellency! and thine enemies shall be found liars unto thee; and thou shalt tread upon their high places. Deuteronomy 33:26 - 29

How Awesome and Mighty and True and Consistent is OUR GOD!!!

Love you all,

Janiver

Mothers' Day

2008-05-10T23:10:00.000-07:00

For twenty six years I have enjoyed this miracle called Motherhood and the manifold emotions and responsibilities it has brought. My children are my greatest joy and accomplishment. I have learned more from them than I have taught. One lady asked us many years ago, "How does it feel to be raising kids that are smarter than you are?" And she was right! I pray daily for my four that God will go with them and reveal Himself to them. I know He loves them more than I do and that brings GREAT comfort to a mom who feels her limitations. Thank you, Kids, for all the wonderful memories.

Happy Mothers' Day to all my friends who have given to a child in any way. Love you all.

Janiver

Ocean and Roses

2008-05-03T11:55:00.000-07:00

My husband and I 'ran off' to the coast last week for a couple days. What is it about the restless sea that settles my spirit and speaks peace to me? I grew up in Monterey County and the beaches at Pacific Grove are my refuge. As I was walking along the boardwalks at Asilomar Beach I could feel the weight leaving me. I think it is because the ocean is SOOO big and our God holds it all in His hands. I feel safe there, knowing God is holding me as well.

I came home and, of course, went out to my garden to check out the flowers. My roses are so gorgeous this year. Especially beautiful and fragrant are my Mr. Lincolns. They are as big as a salad plate. Thank you, Jesus, for roses and lilies and daffodils...

Thank you to all my friends for checking in with me. I love you all and we'll will make it through this valley together.

Your friend,

Janiver

Pressing on

2008-04-22T10:38:00.000-07:00

From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee, when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock that is higher than I. Psalm 61:2

This scripture reminds me that we need each other. When I am overwhelmed I need friends to lead me to That Rock. Thank you for your help and prayers and encouragement in these dark days.

I love you,

Janiver

The Oak Tree

2008-04-13T21:40:00.001-07:00

A mighty wind blew night and day.
It stole the oak tree's leaves away.
Then snapped its boughs and pulled its bark
until the oak was tired and stark.
But still the oak tree held its ground
while other trees fell all around.
The weary wind gave up and spoke,
"How can you still be standing, Oak?"
The oak tree said, "I know that you
can break each branch of mine in two,
carry every leaf away,
shake my limbs, and make me sway.
But I have roots stretched in the earth,
growing stronger since my birth.
You'll never touch them, for you see,
they are the deepest part of me.
Until today, I wasn't sure
of just how much I could endure.
But now I've found, with thanks to you,
I'm stronger than I ever knew."

(from a Hallmark card)
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And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper. Psalm 1:3

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My internet connection has been down a few days, and I've only a few 'good' days before Chemo again to get laundry, etc. caught up. Thank you all for checking in. Love you all.

Janiver

Treatment #3

2008-04-03T22:20:00.000-07:00

Just checking in with all my friends.

We enjoyed a few days with our dear friends Tom and Sandra Bracken. We go way back, so it takes no time at all to pick up where we left off at the last visit. We drove Up Valley to St. Helena on Saturday and enjoyed a visit to the original CIA (Culinary Institute of America) and sat in on a cooking demonstration. There are no friends like long time friends...but I enjoy meeting new ones too.

Yesterday was full-treatment Chemo day. Clayton started the day with me at Kaiser at 9:30 and Bethany came at 3:00 to bring me home at about 4:00. Dr. Kolevska says I'm doing ok. My symptoms are actually rather mild. The rash on my face has cleared up some. Thank you all for your prayers.

I am learning to think twice before I touch anything as the neuropathy makes my fingers and toes tingle like they are waking up from sleep. Annoying.

It was such a blessing to come home yesterday from a rather exhausting day and find that the Gooch family in our church had provided food and a gift to lift my spirits. What a blessing the saints in Napa have been through these tough days. They are a continual strength and blessing to our family.

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Jehovah is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? Jehovah is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? Psalm 27:1

But be not thou far from me, O LORD: O my strength, haste thee to help me. Psalm 22:19

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I love you all and pray for you often. Thank God for the family of God and friends to encourage

in times of need.

Janiver

Looking Younger

2008-03-26T10:51:00.000-07:00

One of the unfortunate side effects of one of the drugs I am on is an acne-type rash on my face and upper body. But as one young man in our church pointed out this morning, it keeps me looking young. Ha Ha...

I have been feeling somewhat stronger, (thank you, Jesus), and have resumed a semi-normal life style. I was blessed to have my daughter, Sarah, go to chemotherapy with me yesterday. Only 3 hours this time. As we were leaving, she was wanting to hold my bags and help me down the stairs. I assured her I was fine. "I'm sorry, Mom", she gushed, "I'm just treating you like an infidel." We had a good laugh at that! She's always mixing up her "big" words.

God is such a continual tower of strength. I am grateful to Him for His peace that is enduring, unfathomable, unexplainable, eternal.

"In thee, O LORD, do I put my trust: let me never be put to confusion.
Deliver me in thy righteousness, and cause me to escape: incline thine ear unto me, and save me.
Be thou my strong habitation, whereunto I may continually resort: thou hast given commandment to save me; for thou art my rock and my fortress." Psalm 71:1-3

You, my friends, are all such a blessing to me...it is so encouraging to read your comments. We will plan a party and celebrate when this is all over.

Love you,

Janiver

Chemo Daze

2008-03-20T09:19:00.000-07:00

Wow! what a week. I've been so weak, but fortunately not too much nausea. Thank you for checking in on me. My family has been terrific, organizing meals, doing chores...while I sit or lie down. I was so proud of my Bethany girl cooking a home-cooked meal last night. She's got the touch!

Love you all so much. Also remember to pray for Sisters Torres and Hale as they go through their valleys as well. You are all great friends to us.

My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O LORD; in the morning will I direct my prayer unto thee, and will look up. Psalm 5:3

Janiver

Memories of Daddy

2008-03-13T14:52:00.000-07:00

Today is my Daddy's birthday. Born March 13, 1925 in Arkansas to a poor farming family. The Depression was well entrenched long before the Stock Market felt its blow in 1929. He told me years later, "Jan, we didn't have enough to eat. I was hungry most of the time." Tough times for a kid. In 1943 his family moved to California to work in the fields and factories. He met and married my mother a few years later. And the rest, as they say, is history. He was a wonderful provider, father, faithful saint, and conscientious citizen. I still miss him. Every time I see Folgers coffee, I think of him making coffee, frying bacon and eggs, starting another day. "Another day another dollar", was a favorite saying of his. He died in 2004 of mesothelioma (asbestos cancer). Thank you, Daddy, for loving me, providing a stable home, free from fear. A real treasure in this century.

*****************************

More GREAT news. Bethany has been invited to join Phi Kappa Phi, the honor society for four year colleges, that represents the top 10% of students in all fields of study. We are proud of her accomplishments.

*****************************
I go to Kaiser tomorrow morning and continue on my journey.

Thanks to all of you,

Janiver

On the Schedule

2008-03-06T15:55:00.000-08:00

I want to take this time to thank everyone who has prayed (and is continuing to pray) for me. I am grateful for the love and peace and help that I feel daily.

"Therefore, as ye abound in everything, in faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love to us, see that ye abound in this grace also." 2Corinthians 8:7

I want to thank Bro. George Craft who took time out of his busy schedule to come by Napa to pray for me on Monday. My son Nathaniel and I were both touched by his concern and by his faith.

I just returned from Kaiser, and they have me on the schedule to begin Chemotherapy on March 14. If the Lord wills.

I also have some GREAT news. Our son Stan was accepted into the Bachelor's of Nursing Program at Sacramento State University. In June, he will begin his fifteen months of study. Love you, buddy.

Still trusting God,

Janiver

Good News

2008-02-27T09:34:00.000-08:00

I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty. Revelation 1:8

I am so glad that our God is not a has-been! He is the Great I AM. God IS our refuge and strength, a very PRESENT help in trouble. Psalm 46:1

I woke up Monday, dreading my doctor's appointment because it seems I always hear bad news. In prayer that morning I poured out my heart to God and said "I am ready to hear some GOOD news!"

The doctor came in and first announced that I needed to return after the CT Scan. She couldn't really help me until she saw the scan. Then she said, "Your blood work came back. Your CEA count is down a bit. That really doesn't mean a whole lot without a scan, but it does mean your tumor is growing extremely slowly."

OK. That isn't the news my heart yearns for..but God answered my prayer and gave me some good news.

Thank you for your support...always.

Janiver

Friends On A Journey

2008-02-22T11:33:00.000-08:00

Hello to all my family and friends. This is the day that the Lord hath made, I will rejoice and be glad in it. I am still waiting to begin treatment with Kaiser. I have a CT scan scheduled this next week. Wouldn't it be great if it showed NO tumor! I am still believing for a miracle. But I am in God's hands and He never fails.

I thank you all for your constant and continuing prayers. What a great fellowship of believers that we are privileged to journey with. You are all a constant source of strength to me and my family. I cannot describe the feeling of hope I feel whenever one of you calls or writes to say "I am praying for you." I pray that your prayers go up as a memorial to heaven and will return a blessing to you one day.

I love you all,

Janiver

Beginning Treatment

2008-02-08T19:24:00.000-08:00

To my faithful friends,

God has continued to give strength to me during this long wait. I had a consultation with my oncologist yesterday. She is ordering blood work and another CT scan. She has also recommended that I be a part of a Chemo Study for my type cancer. The study combines the regular chemo regimen with one of 3 types of other medicines that curbs new vascular growth as well as other things. I will probably begin treatments next week to drive the cancer into remission.

As always my hope is in my Great Physician who is the overseer in my case.

Thank you for your continued prayers and encouragement.

God's hands can work where men's hands cannot. He can do what man says is impossible. He says yes, when men say no. He is Faithful Who has promised.

Your friend,

Janiver

My Life is in His Hands

2008-01-18T15:48:00.000-08:00

For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.
But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.
We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;
Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;
Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body. 2Corinthians 4:6 -10
*******************

I received a call from a physician at Stanford Medical Center yesterday afternoon. They do not feel that surgery is a viable option. Due to the location of the tumor there are many complications that could arise. They have referred me back to Kaiser Oncology Department to begin Chemotherapy probably in mid February.

I do not understand why God is leading me down this road, but I do understand that God IS leading me. He never has and never will forsake me nor my family. He will be faithful Who has promised.

Continue to hold us up in prayer. He is an awesome God.

We love you all and are also praying for you today.

Your friends,

Clayton & Janiver and family

Waiting...

2008-01-16T20:29:00.000-08:00

Well...

We went to Stanford today and learned that due to a glitch in communications, Stanford hadn't received authorization from Kaiser for the meeting with the Tumor Board. However, they put it on the schedule and discussed my case anyway...I just couldn't attend. Frustrating.

My doctor's medical assistant should call me tomorrow with the results of their findings. And hopefully all the paperwork will be approved as well. It is much easier to trust God in all of this than in man's devices.

When you enter the clinic, a pianist is playing soothing music in the lobby. Imagine our surprise as one of the songs she played was, "Here I am to Praise You". It was the only praise chorus she played while we were there.
I believe the Lord had her do it just for us.

Stanford also hires massage therapists to come to the clinic to provide free treatments for their patients who are waiting for appointments. It was 15 minutes of bliss and almost made up for the fruitless 2 hour, one-way trip!

I won't pretend that this past few weeks have been a piece of cake, but one learns that God NEVER fails. I love Him.

Thank you for all your prayers and phone calls and for checking in on this blog. You are all dear to me.

Janiver

Cleaning Closets

2008-01-11T09:23:00.000-08:00

I like to start the New Year by cleaning closets. I have donated four bags of stuff to charity this last week. Stuff that no longer filled a need. I had quite a collection of denims that I'd planned to use for a quilt or some other craft. Fabrics that were once destined to be part of the family wardrobe, now passed on to encourage some one else to dream a while. And books. I always buy too many books. I do read them. But I always think, "I'll read that again." and don't. So it becomes clutter.

I inherited the tendency to save from two wonderful parents who grew up during the Great Depression. At least that's my excuse. But I have tried to adopt the maxim, 'When you bring something new into your life, take out something old.' And it seems to work pretty well. At least with things. As I've grown older I've learned to hang on to the things that REALLY matter. Friends, Family, Memories.

Cleaning closets gives me a time to reflect on the past year, what I've accomplished, and to affirm what I wish to do in the coming year.

Yours for a clutter-free 2008,

Janiver

P.S. Oh, yes. I did have the biopsy and it went well...just waiting to hear back from the results and the doctors' plans for me.

Love you all, my dear friends

Tests and More Tests

2008-01-02T22:12:00.000-08:00

I went to Stanford last Wednesday night and had the MRI. I am scheduled for a biopsy next Thursday. We won't know too much for about two weeks. This is why they call us patients.

Thank you for checking in on me. Thank you for your prayers and support.

Janiver

Happy New Year

2007-12-31T18:36:00.000-08:00

I hope you all have had a blessed holiday season...time with family and friends..and making time for our Savior. We will be wringing out the old year with our children and their friends. Wringing out all the bad things and keeping the good. May God richly bless you all with peace and may you draw nearer to Him this year.

Ringing in the New Year 2008!

With much love,

Janiver

Stanford Update

2007-12-21T08:57:00.000-08:00

Clayton and I met with two doctors at Stanford Medical Center's Cancer Center yesterday. They gave us a couple of surgery options. Dr. Shelton has ordered an MRI and a biopsy in order to have the information they need to help us decide what to do.
We were very impressed with the facility and the staff there at Stanford. After my appointment I was treated to a free chair massage. Lovely.

I am still believing my God to intervene and keep me.

Thank you for your continuing prayers.

Your friend,

Janiver

Christmas Cookies

2007-12-14T12:53:00.000-08:00

I love this time of year. Many of our happiest family memories are of baking special Christmas cookies. ... seeing more icing on the kids' faces than on the cookies. ...the spicy aroma of baking gingerbread. ...eating more sweets than is good for us. ...eating the crumbs.

Crumbs. The crumbs were as good as the whole cooky. Irresistible. Yummy. Just as sweet, just as spicy, just as fattening.

The woman from Canaan came to Jesus with her need and was rebuked by him. Yet she persisted. She knew in her heart that it only takes ONE TOUCH, ONE CRUMB to do the job.

"And she said, Truth, Lord: yet the dogs eat of the crumbs which fall from their masters' table." Matthew 15:27

And Jesus was amazed at her faith.

"O woman, great is thy faith: be it unto thee even as thou wilt. "

Dear Jesus, hear me today. All I need is one crumb from your table, because it contains everything that the whole loaf contains. I love you.

Janiver

Sunday Thoughts

2007-12-10T08:34:00.000-08:00

Blessed is the man that trusteth in the LORD, and whose hope the LORD is.
For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit. Jeremiah 17:7,8

...and hope maketh not ashamed. Because the Lord is our Hope. How can we ever be ashamed in Him?

We had a great day yesterday, worshiping our Lord with friends and family. Bro. Steve Crow from New Mexico was in services with us with his family. His message on hope encouraged us all.

I had the CT scan on Friday. They only had to poke me twice to insert the IV. : ) God bless those nurses and staff who are so patient with us patients. I will hear something this week sometime.

Thank you for your thoughts and prayers,

Janiver

More Tests

2007-12-06T20:17:00.000-08:00

My CT scan is scheduled for Friday, 5 p.m. The radiologist will read it probably Monday or Tuesday.

"And call upon me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me." Psalm 50:15

" Thy right hand, O LORD, is become glorious in power: thy right hand, O LORD, hath dashed in pieces the enemy.
And in the greatness of thine excellency thou hast overthrown them that rose up against thee: thou sentest forth thy wrath, which consumed them as stubble." Exodus 15:6,7

"And now, O LORD God, the word that thou hast spoken concerning thy servant, and concerning his house, establish it for ever, and do as thou hast said." 2Samuel 7:25

" Remember the word unto thy servant, upon which thou hast caused me to hope." Psalm 119:49
:This is my comfort in my affliction: for thy word hath quickened me." Psalm 119:50

Thank you for your continued prayers,

Janiver

Finally...

2007-12-04T23:11:00.000-08:00

I talked with my surgeon on the telephone today. He is ordering blood work and the CT scan. Thank you for praying with me about this. This has been quite a week for us. Fridge had to be repaired, plumbing to be repaired, when it rains it pours. : )

Bethany and I were able to take a three day mother/daughter trip which was very enjoyable. Life marches on.

Thank you again for your prayers,

Janiver

Still Waiting....

2007-12-02T14:27:00.000-08:00

But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. Isaiah 40:31

I am still waiting to hear from Kaiser regarding the CT scan. Please pray with me this week that they will return my calls. : )

God is our strength and He continues to hold us up. I am so grateful to Him. Psalm 23 promises that His goodness and His mercy will follow me...

Our love to all of you,

Janiver

Hope Maketh Not Ashamed

2007-11-25T14:09:00.000-08:00

" Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:
By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.
And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience;
And patience, experience; and experience, hope:
And hope maketh not ashamed; " Romans 5:1 - 5

"Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the LORD. " Psalms 31:24

God is our hope and strength...a very present help in trouble... He is a constant source of energy in this time of interminable waiting. Thank you for all your prayers and concern for us.

Your friend,

Janiver

"Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost." Romans 15:13

" ...hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God." Psalms 42:11

Friends in Need

2007-11-21T00:07:00.000-08:00

Bethany and I were discussing the value of family and friends when one is going through hardship. She said, "I never realized that until the day I was in the waiting room of the hospital two years ago. You were so sick. The elevator doors opened, and out walked Uncle Loren. He had gotten the call from Dad and just dropped everything and drove ten hours to be there."

Until you face sickness, death, tragedy, you really cannot appreciate the strength there is in the prayers of the family of God. Gratitude wells up inside me whenever I hear from someone that says, "I am praying", or "Our church prayed for you."

I have received many phone calls, cards, and, of course, the comments posted to this blog, and I sense the love and faith that is behind each one. I have received prayer cloths that I keep with me. Your faith strengthens my faith.

On Sunday the Hanks family, Bro. and Sis. Morgan Underwood, and Bro. and Sis. O'Keefe came to service to encourage my husband and to pray for me.
Yesterday, our family was blessed by a visit from Dennis and Valda Johnson and Elbert and Donna Hollingsworth from Albany, Oregon. They drove here to see us and to pray with me. I am so humbled by their expression of love, concern and faith.

May God return blessings to all of you who have prayed for me and our family. Our God is faithful.

Janiver

"...and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother." Proverbs 18:24

Hope for Today

2007-11-17T21:09:00.000-08:00

"Speak unto the children of Israel, and bid them that they make them fringes in the borders of their garments throughout their generations... And it shall be unto you for a fringe, that ye may look upon it, and remember all the commandments of the LORD, and do them; and that ye seek not after your own heart and your own eyes... That ye may remember, and do all my commandments, and be holy unto your God. "
Numbers 15:38 - 40

"And a woman having an issue of blood twelve years, which had spent all her living upon physicians, neither could be healed of any,
Came behind [him], and touched the border of his garment: and immediately her issue of blood stanched. "
Luke 8:43 - 44

I find such hope in these scriptures for me. In living a life separate and holy unto God we can approach Him with a boldness that others may not know. I am confident that God sees me, knows my need, cares for me, and will not fail me. Thank you to all of you who have left comments to us. Your prayers and your kindness is a real strength.

The family of God is a blessing in times of need. May the God of all peace strengthen each of you.

Your friend,

Janiver

Stanford Update

2007-11-14T15:19:00.000-08:00

November 14, 2007

I have just received a phone call from one of the Stanford nurses. They are ordering some imaging, CT Scan, etc. ; then as soon as the referral paper work is complete they will call me to make an appointment with one of their surgeons.

Trusting God,

Janiver

Looking for a Miracle

2007-11-14T08:55:00.000-08:00

Greetings to all our friends and family. Thank you again for your many prayers for us for today. Someone once said that there are no impossible situations only opportunities for miracles. I had an appointment with Dr. George Berndt today regarding the possibility of surgery. He told me that it is not feasible to do conventional surgery on this tumor. He is referring me to Stanford Medical Center for a possible 'in-surgery radiation' treatment. He feels this is the best alternative for me at this time. The tumor is outside the colon and resting against the bone.

Thank you for your continued prayers.

"According to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death. " Philippians 1:20

I'm singing the song:

"Praise You, praise You,
Let my life praise You.
Praise You, praise You,
Let my life, O Lord, praise You."

I am believing God for His best for me and my family.

I love you all.

Janiver

The Waiting Room

2007-11-03T17:22:00.000-07:00

This is a new venture for me. I plan to use this blog to keep my family and friends better informed as to the journey God has chosen for me at this time. I have experienced a local recurrance of colon cancer. The tumor is 2 cm and my oncologist, Dr. Whitney, has referred me to the surgeon who performed my previous surgeries. So... we are waiting for our November 13th appointment with Dr. Berndt. Hopefully we will learn whether surgery is an option or not at that time. Radiation is not possible as it was used before and can only be used once in any one area of the body. After the 13th they will decide what regimen of chemotherapy to begin. I may qualify for a new colon cancer study that involves variations in the chemo treatment with newer medicines.

My treatments will be from Kaiser Hospital in Vallejo, about 25 minutes from our home in Napa.

I am not in any pain at this time. God has given me a peace about His plan for me during this time.

A heartfelt 'thank you' to our family, wonderful local church and so many great friends for the expressions of love and concern that you have shown to us already! It means so much to have that support.

Please continue to keep us in prayer in the days and weeks ahead for the decisions we will need to make.