For Susan Walker Girl

What Is A Cat

Gentle eyes
that see so much,
paws that have
the quiet touch.

Purrs to signal
"all is well"
and show more love
then words can tell.

Graceful movements
touched with pride,
a calming presence
by our side.

A friendship
that will last and grow,
small wonder
why we love them so!........

author unknown

love from Bernie, Terry and Shopper

Remembering Nathan...and Susan

Our dear Pilgrim Pal Susan Bunts has posted a lament concerning her cat Nathan who had to be put down on the weekend.

All cat lovers (and hopefully all Pilgrim Pals) will understand her pain. Why not let Susan know that you're thinking of her. THANKS! ~ David, the Pilgrim

The Brodigal Plogger or the Prodigal Blogger

Let's kill the fatted calf! Our prodigal blogger has returned from her wanderings! Seriously, we welcome back our beloved Laura-Mae! What a joy, what a thrill to have her back! Let's throw a welcome home party!

THANKS, PILGRIM PALS, FOR WELCOMING OUR SPECIAL PILGRIM PAL BACK TO THE FOLD!

THANKS, LAURA-MAE, FOR YOUR HONESTY AND TRANSPARENCY!

The incredible thing about PILGRIM PALS is that we can reveal our heartbreaks, share our sorrows and show our warts without fear of condemnation. We all struggle on the journey. We all stumble along the pathway. We all go through deep waters. We all battle the enemy on every side.

But we are more than conquerors through Him who loves us passionately!

So, Laura-Mae, welcome home! The welcome mat is out. The fire is on in the fireplace. The kettle is on. Tea is almost ready! Sit and relax! You are home and you're among friends!

HALLELUJAH!

~ David & the Pilgrim Pals

I'm back!

Just so you all know......I am back and I posted on my blog today! Thanks for leaving me all the encouraging/threatening comments on my blog, it meant more than you realize!

God Bless,

Laura

Three Cheers For Laura-Mae!!

Sunday, March 30, 2008

I'm Posting!!
So...I guess I won't close this blog, although I was quite tempted to.
I can see by the comments left that I would be missed, thank you so much!
I stopped blogging because I have been going through a period of discouragment, extreme discouragement.
So bad that when I think of the past months...from September til now, I can hardly remember events that happened or regular seasonal activities that I didn't participate in.
So weird!
Anywho...I am feeling somewhat better, am looking forward more than ever to spring and I do know there is a light at the end of my tunnel.
It seems that every corner I turn there is something to remind me that God is in Control and things will work out according to His plan.
For my birthday, I couldn't believe the strong theme that ran throughout the birthday cards and presents I received.
Jeremiah 29: 11 " For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.'
Proverbs 3: 5, 6 'Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight.'
Those verses appeared on nearly every card, bookmark, gift etc that I recieved, I couldn't beleive it!
Both verses that I have known since childhood, but now they mean more to me than ever before.
I was rather convicted as well about certain sins,
I always expect the best of things, assuming that God is going to just give me every little desire of my heart, but then never take into account certain things in my life that need to go!
I have really been made aware of the uttermost importance for daily prayer and have made a point of setting aside time each day to talk with the Lord!
So that is just a little blurb on whats been happening with me this past while, thanks for being patient with me and I look forward to blogging more in the near future!Laura

Bearing One Another's Burdens

Dear Pilgrim Pals:

It must seem like I've been strangely silent recently. Decidedly distant? Not really! It's been such a hectic week to 10 days with my Uncle Bill passing away and other stressful situations occurring.

Never fear...I've been reading the posts and praying for you all. On top of the health and job issues that each of us are dealing with I'm made aware each day of others who are facing cancer, dealing with job losses and all the other circumstances that can rob our joy...if we allow them to.

Be assured that each of you are thought of fondly and remembered before the Father.

Thank you for your comments, your love, concern and partnership as we seek to encourage one another on this pilgrimage home.

Saija, we are praying for you as you spend time family in Finland mourning the loss of your cousin.

Little Missionary, we rejoice concerning the new condo and the recent interview. Hope you're feeling well soon!

Felisol, I can't say how much your love and prayerful concern mean to us all.

Vicki, we are bearing you up before the Father as you contemplate surgery in April!

LPP and all your clan down there in La Belle Province, we love you and are praying for the needs you express.

Terry, what can I say? You keep this Pilgrim Pals site flourishing! THANKS!

Donna, it's always good to hear from you!

Laura-Mae, don't be a stranger!

Amrita, we're so glad you've joined us!

Susan, we sure miss Chuck don't we! I'm so glad your pastor preaches the Word with power and authority!

Lisa J., our hearts rejoice with you as you enjoy the arrival of Ezra (pictured with his brother Daniel). What a precious jewel. I love the video clips of him. Be sure to check these out, Pals, right here.

Pilot Mom, we love you! How are the wedding plans coming along?

And for the rest of our beloved Pals...be encouraged today. We are getting closer to hearing the Father's "well done". Press on, ever trusting the Pioneer and Pefecter of our faith.

Much love in Christ,

~David, the Pilgrim

Sweet Fellowship

Psalm 133:1-3

Psalm 133
1Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!
2It is like the precious ointment upon the head, that ran down upon the beard, even Aaron's beard: that went down to the skirts of his garments;
3As the dew of Hermon, and as the dew that descended upon the mountains of Zion: for there the LORD commanded the blessing, even life for evermore.

Today Vicki and Little Missionary Julie posted and it filled my heart with joy as I read the comments by both of them and by Donna and Felisol.

My mind thought of these Scriptures and my heart is singing with joy as I think about how we Pilgrim Pals are all so blessed to have such loving and caring friends!

I will be eternally grateful to Pilgrim David for ever creating this blog!

Interview

Hi Pals,

Just a quick note - my interview went well - at least I think it did but you just never know. Thanks for your prayers. The Lord sustained me and I was well enough to get there and back. I won't know until next week if I'm selected for the job.

I think I'm over the worst of the flu - should be all better in a few more days I hope. Thanks for your prayers for my health.


Julie (LM)

Prayer Needed - Vicki

Quick prayer update:

* My son suffered a head injury a couple weeks ago, saw a doctor, but was referred to a neurologist because of headaches that won't stop. We're pretty sure he sustained a concussion, but the symptoms have gone on for awhile now. Appointment is today. Pray for his healing. He's also now sick with sinus infection or flu or something.

* The endocrinologist referred me to a surgeon for the mass on my thyroid after determining it is so large, has grown fast, and is pressing into my esophagus. The surgeon says thyroid cancers are more common now and can hide behind benign tissue, but whether or not this mass contains a malignancy, it has to come out. Surgery isset for a complete thyroidectomy on April 18th. I met the surgeon again this week. Appreciate your prayers as I'm not too surgery-friendly. Praise the Lord for a good report on my recent colonoscopy, though. That was a breeze.

* My sister Shelby in CA was evicted from her apartment and only just now found a job. God provided for her for several months miraculously, but she is still living hand to mouth. Pray for her continual provision and encouragement. Also, her 10 yr. old daughter was harassed, along with other schoolmates, by some bullies who jumped the school fence and threatened sexual harm. The girl was hysterical with fear when Shelby picked her up from school that day. Apparently, there was no school supervision on the playground, and Shelby has since placed her daughter in another school. Please pray! It's been one thing after another, and my heart grieves for them. On my way now to put a couple packages in the mail to them.

* Pray for Donna. Her physical therapy after shoulder surgery has been difficult at times. Recovery for these things is slow and arduous - she needs our love, prayers, and support.

* My husband is neglecting certain doctor appts. that he needs to put on the calendar. Melanoma recheck, CT scan of his aorta, prostate, sleep apnea problems. He won't use his C-pap machine because it messes up his sinuses. Also, he's so exhausted every evening, I'm not sure how much of the exhaustion is the extra work load at his job, and how much is weaker condition since heart surgery last year. He drops asleep right after supper every night. These long days seem too much for him, and I'm not sure how long he can keep up this pace.

Thanks in advance for praying. I hope you know I'm always praying for you.

Praying for You Pals

Pilgrims...

Please pray for our Pilgrim Pal David and Pilgrim Pal Saija as they both go to the funeral of their loved ones, today...David to his Uncle Bill's in Peterborough and Saija to her cousin's in Finland.

Sick

Hi Pals,

I'm quite sick and in need of your prayers. I really sick about the Senators losing to the Habs (Montreal) tonight!! But besides that, I am sick with a second bout of bronchitis - this seems much worse than last January. I spiked a fever earlier tonight and just generally feel terrible. I'm on an antibiotic so I hope it, along with your prayers will bring about a quick healing. Why the urgency? I was invited to a job interview this Thursday (it's an internal position within the City), and it couldn't be worse timing for me to be this sick! However, God's will be done. If I am not well enough to go, I'll have to trust God in this situation.

"Is any one of you sick? He should call the elders of the church to pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise him up." James 5:14-15

Since you are not here to anoint me with oil....I'll anoint myself :)

Julie (Little Missionary)

Happy Birthday Little Montreal Girl

Ssshhh, don't let my sister know I tipped you off, but tomorrow is your favorite Lil Montreal Girl's birthday...the same day the Sens take on our hometown Habs, and guess who she wants to win as the icing on her cake?! Her pen name isn't Praying Sens Fan in Montreal for no reason ;) My lil sis will be all-grown up...18 years old...I think she might even have some gray hairs...okay, that's just her auburn hair showing a strand or two of blond ;)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO OUR LITTLE MONTREAL GIRL!!!!

love from all of your pilgrim pals

He Is Risen

As I left work this morning at 7:00 a.m. the sun was bursting into view on the eastern horizon prompting these words as the Son rose in my heart:

Jesus is risen, the angels announced it,
Jesus is risen, He's no longer dead;
Jesus is risen, redemption completed,
Jesus is risen, the glad tidings spread!

Jesus is risen, death has been conquered,
Jesus is risen, our soon-coming King;
Jesus is risen, new life He has given,
Jesus is risen, His praises now sing!

Dear friends...we serve a risen Savior! He is alive for evermore!

HALLELUJAH!

Bon Voyage Saija!

at the moment - life is fast paced here at condo central ...as i type this, i am 95% sure that i will be going to finland ... either next week or the week after ... for my cousin's funeral ... they have a different time frame for their funerals ... the service happens 2 or 3 weeks after the death ...it will be a quick trip ... my companion will be my aunt maija (click here ) ... in fact, it was this sweet aunt of mine who called and asked if i wanted to go ... she was able to get me standby tickets for half price - making it affordable ... and this isn't even her side of the family - it is my dad's - my aunt maija is my mom's sister! she just has a tender, sweet, heart ...so - i will find out on tuesday which weekend the funeral is on ...leo is supportive of this trip, i wouldn't go otherwise ... he wants me to be there with the family ... and i was so gungho about it yesterday - so positive! ... but today, fear started taking bites out of me ...i thought ... what if leo gets a fever? (i will be away for at least 12 days) ... what if my sister maria dies? what about the new doctor's appt.? the one i'll have to change ...what if, what if, what if ...then - like always - the Lord reminded me through His Word ... "For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and love and of a sound mind." 2 Timothy 1:7 ... God hasn't given me a spirit of fear ... so if my feelings aren't from God - who is trying to butt into my spiritual heart? ... the heart that belongs to my Saviour, who has redeemed me for Himself ... He conquered sin, conquered death ... and He has given me His Holy Spirit to dwell within me ... that hard won peace that Jesus died for! there is no fear in Him ...so i resolve to take the trip, trusting the Lord to have worked out all details ...i will continue in prayer (could you pray for me too? and leo?) ... and i shall let you know how this all develops ...oh - one more thing - leo would like to borrow someone's cat for 2 weeks - so he won't be so lonesome!

my tickets are bought ... i leave on the 25th ... my cousin's funeral will be on the 29th ... then, Lord willing, i will get home on 6 April ...

Reflections on "Good" Friday

GOOD FRIDAY

How could a day so dark and gruesome
Ever be described as “good”?
When the sinless, spotless Jesus
Gave His all, His life, His blood.

But, ah, the “good” accrued to sinners
We, ourselves, deserved to die;
But the blood of His atonement
Rent the veil and brought us nigh.

Now we stand, redeemed, forgiven,
Ransomed, justified and free;
Guaranteed a place in heaven
With the King eternally.

All the “good” that we could muster
Never could our sin debt pay;
But by trusting in His merit
We have LIFE this “Good Friday”.

~ David W. Fisher, March 21st, 2008

Uncle Bill Passes Away

Yesterday I heard that my Uncle Bill was close to death and rushed over to the Palliative Care unit at our local hospital. He had been transferred there from the Peterborough Regional Health Centre a week ago. While I was in his room Uncle Bill breathed his last and was ushered into the presence of the Lord. My Aunt Shirley and their four children Paul, Doug, Susanne and Jane were all present. The following article appeared in today's edition of our local newspaper, The Peterborough Examiner. Click here.Visitation will be Monday, March 24th at Comstock's Funeral Home in Peterborough from 2-4 and 7-9. The funeral will be held on Tuesday, March 25th at Murray Street Baptist Church in Peterborough at 1:30 p.m.Please pray for Aunt Shirley, her children, their spouses and the grandchildren as they grieve the loss of a wonderful man!The only sibling still surviving is my Aunt Eileen. Uncle Frank died suddenly from a wasp's sting back in 1961. My dad, Chester, passed away in 1992. Another sister, Jessie, died when she was only 6 months old.THANKS FOR YOUR PRAYERS!David
Scribbled by David Warren Fisher at 3:45 PM

Laura-Mae... "A Perfecting Love"

Dear Laura-Mae...It has been brought to our attention from our "Little Pilgrim Pal" that you want to close your blog. Please don't do it! We know that you are a very busy girl but we still do need you. You are one of the original Pilgrim Pals and you are very important to us!!!!
We love you!!!
http://lauramae25.blogspot.com

Have a Blessed Easter

I've decided to come out from "hiding" and wish everyone a wonderful Easter - celebrate Jesus! I have been really busy lately. Everything finally got settled with the financing for my new condo, which I move to in June. What a blessing from God. I can hardly believe it. If you had asked me a year ago if I would even consider buying I would have said you are crazy! Well, sometimes God takes you on a road of blessing that does seem crazy! When the "idea" first came to my in January, I thought - no way that will happen. But, if it's God's idea and we follow Him - awesome things happen. The Lord brought me a Christian Real Estate Agent and a Christian Mortgage Broker - pretty cool eh! Thank you Heavenly Father for my new home - may it be a sanctuary for all who visit....and of course for me and my bunny :) I've already envisioned the second bedroom as my very special prayer room.

Julie (Little Missionary)

Come Out Come out Wherever You Are!!

Is everybody on holiday?

Erin's Eulogy By Debbie Koch

Here's what I promised in my earlier post today. It's kinda long but I hope you take the time to read all the way through. I hope it touches your heart the same way it did mine!
Chris (Erin's dad)
Eulogy for Erin from a Total Stranger (well sorta) by Debbie Koch, Vincennes, Indiana
It is doubtful that the name Erin Michelle Page would have meant anything to me had my son not attended Higher Ground Baptist Church and shared his Sunday school class with Kimberly and Brian Malone. But, on Saturday February 16th, as our family gathered together in Spring Hill, TN to celebrate the 1st birthday of our first grandchild, son David told us of a young girl named Erin who was stricken ill suddenly in Kingsport, TN. David received a phone message from his Sunday school teacher, Shea Payne, who stated that the doctors said Erin's organs were starting to shut down, and they had done all they could for her. It was out of their hands.
Thus began our Prayer vigil. Over the next three weeks I learned alot about this lovely young stranger named Erin. I learned she had a mom and stepdad named Kimberly and Brian Malone and a very eloquent father named Chris Page. Her sisters were Morgan and Briana. And there were others whose relationship to Erin were unclear: Doris and Tammy. It did not matter. We prayed for them all---Erin's family, friends, and the staff at Vanderbilt's Children Hospital.
I learned that Erin was a 14 year old cheerleader at Robinson Middle School, that she loved care bears, Hello Kitty, and giraffes. And I learned that Erin was a fighter with the heart of a lion, and that she had a truckload of friends---some she never even knew--until now.
And I learned something about the rest of us. I learned that East Tennessee had "Pray for Erin" lighting it's highway signs in certain locales. I learned that people from all over the world were lifting up Erin and her family in prayer, and even from such exotic places as Ontario Canada, Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, New York, North and South Carolina, Georgia, Mississippi, Louisianna, Texas, Kentucky, Arkansas, North and South Dakota, Ohio, Illinois, and Vincennes, Indiana, where Erin was placed on the prayer list at Indiana Presbyterian Church. God has no boundaries---political or otherwise. We are all in one accord.
We prayed for a miracle, and each new day was a miracle. Erin squeezed a hand. Erin smiled at Chris. Erin's big blue eyes followed family members around the room. Erin's oxygen level was elevated. Erin's bleeding had slowed. And on the days when the news was discouraging, It only brought us even closer to Jesus. And that was a miracle, too.
Erin was instructing us to lean on the Lord and not on our own understanding. Erin was showing us that love transcends this world we know and see. Erin was reminding us that each life and each moment of life is a precious gift. Erin was admonishing us to put aside our trivial pursuits and petty differences and focus on those things that truly matter. Erin was teaching us to fight the good fight and finish the race. And, victoriously, Erin was leading the way Home---not the one in East Tennessee---but our Heavenly Home. And she did all of this without saying a word. She did all this by simply being.
The third verse of one of my favorite hymns, "My Shepherd Will Supply My Need", based on the 23rd Psalm, Illustrates Erin's final journey: "The Sure Provisions of My God Attend Me All My Days; O may Your House be my Abode, and all my work be Praise. There would I find a settled rest, while others go and come; no more a stranger, or a guest, but like a child at home."
Yes, my little sister in Christ, Erin Michelle Page, is truly at Home and resting contentedly, safe in the arms of Jesus. She has joined that cloud of witnesses that watches from on high and urges us on in the race of life. Someday, when our journey ends, we will join her there---no more a stranger or a guest, but like a child at Home.

Report From Erin's dad

I just don't know how to start this entry in Erin's journal. When Erin first got sick and Brian and Kimberly suggested we did this I was skeptical about it at first. Now, here I am, at 7:00 AM on Saturday morning still posting to this site. God has a plan. I appreciate everyone who encouraged me to continue posting. I feel like God has used Erin's sickness in a mighty way to open the eyes of people everywhere to His Love. I know if no one else feels this, I do! I thought the Celebration of Erin's life yesterday was a fitting tribute to her. I was dreading it so much and wondered to myself how i could make it through. Oh Yea of Little Faith! That's me, always skeptical always being judgemental! I shook hands and hugged people from 1:30 till 9:30. God took care of me! People ministered to me all afternoon and evening long! I wanted to make sure I got to speak to everyone who had been praying for my Angel. If I didn't get to tell you personally, I want to say I appreciate you all! Please continue to pray for me and Kimberly , and our families. I know the next few days when everyone goes back to their normal lives it will be hard for us to return to some sort of normalcy. I can't say how long I will continue posting to this site but God knows. It is sort of like a therapy to put my feelings down here. A guy whom I first met in Nashville who brought us a care package (sorry I don't remember your name) handed me a folded piece of paper and I believe he told me his mother had written something for Erin last night. We read it on the way to my sisters last night and it is so beautiful! I intend to post it on here later sometime today for everyone to read! It's so beautiful! Thank you Debbie Koch for your beautiful writing! I appreciate everyone who came to celebrate Erin's life with us last night. Jesus I thank you for the Peace you showered me and my family with! I am going to try to get a little more sleep before the graveside service today. My mind just fills up and it seems like i have to empty it to be able to rest. I promise to update sometime later with the beautiful writing of Debbie Koch. Thanks!
Chris (Erin's dad)

Saija's Loss

Saija, our beloved Pilgrim Pal, has posted a sad note on her Thro' A Glass Darkly regarding the sudden passing of her cousin.

Here's what she wrote and the accompanying graphic:

"this morning started with tragic news ... my cousin, only 48 years old, died suddenly ... in much the same way as leo's sister ... a prolonged headache ... an aneurysm ... then death ...he lived in finland ... the distance is great ... yet the grief that my family over there is feeling - is felt here in our home too ... just another reminder of our mortality ... the brevity of life ... and a need to live each day, as if it were our last ..."

And so, Pilgrim Pals, let's surround Saija with our love, concern and prayer support and assure her that we're standing with her during these difficult times.

Thank you!

~ David, the Pilgrim

For Arlene And Erin From Little Montreal Girl And Little Pilgrim Pal

When I get where I'm going
on the far side of the sky.
The first thing that I'm gonna do
Is spread my wings and fly.
I'm gonna land beside a lion,
and run my fingers through his mane.
Or I might find out what it's like
To ride a drop of rain

(Chorus:)
Yeah when I get where I'm going,
there'll be only happy tears.
I will shed the sins and struggles,
I have carried all these years.
And I'll leave my heart wide open,
I will love and have no fear.
Yeah when I get where I'm going,
Don't cry for me down here.

I'm gonna walk with my grandaddy,
and he'll match me step for step,
and I'll tell him how I missed him,
every minute since he left.
Then I'll hug his neck.
(Chorus)

So much pain and so much darkness,
in this world we stumble through.
All these questions, I can't answer,
so much work to do.
But when I get where I'm going,
and I see my Maker's face.
I'll stand forever in the light,
of His amazing grace.

Yeah when I get where I'm going,
Yeah when I get where I'm going,
there'll be only happy tears.
Hallelujah!
I will love and have no fear.
When I get where I'm going.
Yeah when I get where I'm going.

The Angels Rejoice...More

The following report was posted by Chris (Erin's dad) on her web site. Check it out here. What an impact this precious young lady is having even after her homecall. Let's keep her family in our prayers. ~ David, the Pilgrim

I heard some great news last night from Brian. There were 47 people saved and 43 rededications at the meeting held in Erin's honor at the Crossroads Youth at Higher Ground! To God be the Glory!

I know Erin is so happy in Heaven this morning! To hear things like this lifts me from the valley of despair and sets me high on a mountain of Joy! I am so proud to say that I am Erin's dad! I have been blessed just to be able to call her daughter!

Erin, I love you so much Honey! Jesus, thank you!! I Know God is still using Erin's sickness to touch people in this city and around the country!

Please continue to pray for our family. I have been dreading the next few days knowing from the past experience of losing my Dad in 1992. I want this Friday to not be a sad funeral, instead I want it to be a celebration of Erin's Life!

I had no idea of the impact that skinny little girl of mine could have on her friends and this community. I pray that God get's all the Glory! I hope everyone didn't think that Tuesday nights update would be the last. I'll continue to post to this site as long as the Lord lays it on my heart to do so! I am sure Kimberly and Brian feel the same. I couldn't sleep again this morning and I woke up with all these words going through my head.

I want to again thank everyone for their Prayers and comments they leave here. It's like an ointment for my aching heart to read your lovely words of condolence. Thanks everyone! Thank you Lord!

Chris (an Angel's dad)

Welcome Pilgrim Pal Amrita!

Amrita
North, India
I am a single , evangelical, born-again Christian woman, child of the swinging 60s. A teacher by profession,but changed gears when disability - in the sound and light realm struck. Now I am a care giver to my widowed Mom and Aunt and business manager of our small church (voluntary service )The purpose of my blog is to share the trials and triumphs of life in India and encourage friends to pray for us.You can call it a cross cultural blog http://yesugarden.blogspot.com/


Pilgrim Pals is very pleased to announce that Amrita is joining!!
Amrita is a godly, and heart caring person from India.
Below you will see some of the flowers that she loves to grow and keep care of.
Her blog is chuck full of good things!

Below is one of her posts that I really enjoyed. Her personality comes right through!
Amrita is like our Jel who visits so many blogs and spreads her sunshine and her hugs, expecting nothing in return. [Two friends we have here who will never forsake us! ]
It will be a joy to have her as one of the Pals!!

Every Valley
We are walking by faith and not by sight as we continue our church building project.Now we are laying dirt and rocks to level the road. A road
roller will level it.We need lots of water to settle the dirt and the Lord sent us a rain storm and some rain last night to help us on our way.Thank you Jesus.
I am claiming the Promise from Isaiah 40;4,5.Singing along with Handel 's Messiah.Listen to Jon Humphrey sing it.
Of course Isaiah. is talking about 'clearing way for the Lord ' v3.
But as the same time we can ask Him to remove the hills and level the valleys in our lives.
Isaiah. 40;4,5 (Old Testament)
Let every valley be lifted up
And every mountain and hill be made low
and let the rough ground become a plain
And the rugged terrain a broad valley;
Then the glory of the Lord will be revealed.
And all flesh shall see it together;
For the mouth of the Lord has spoken.

PS Thank you so much Felisol for introducing us to Amrita!

ERIN IS HOME!

The previous post expressed the critical nature of Erin's present condition. I didn't know what to expect when I logged on this morning at our Buffalo hotel. We are confident that Erin will be "absent from the body, present with the Lord" if she doesn't survive this ordeal.

As PILGRIM PALS let's commit to pray fervently for Erin and her family today. I am! If our sovereign God chooses to call her home let's come alongside her family to show our love and support. They will need the loving care and encouragement from fellow believers!

Thank you, Terry, for keeping us informed!

Standing together,

~ David & The Pilgrims

NOTE: It has just been posted that Erin is home! The angels are rejoicing but we are grieving...but not as others who have no hope. Finally home!

Home Call For Erin Michelle

Erin Michelle Page has been welcomed home in Jesus Loving Arms on March 11, 2008 at approx 9:10pm CST

Is Any Thing Too Hard For The LORD?

I just don't know how to say what I've got to. We've met with Dr. Fleming and Erin prognosis is very grim. We're going to stop the ECMO machine and let Erin be with Jesus and be ultimately healed. The doctors have assured us they've done everything possible to give Erin a chance to heal.. Erin's lung xrays from today actually look worse than those from when she first arrived at Vandy. Also we saw the CT scans from yesterday of her entire body and they reveal Large clusters of fungus in Erin's brain surrounded by inflammation. Her blood gas numbers have been steadily deteriorating. Dr. Fleming's team all have children so they understand the difficulty in this type of decision. He told us that he felt they were doing stuff to Erin instead of for her. We appreciate everyone's prayers and support. We need everyone to continue to be praying for us during this darkest of times. Even though we know Erin will be with Jesus, it's hard to let go. I want everyone to know that Kimberly, Brian and myself have read this message and we all agree that the people praying for Erin and checking this sight so faithfully need to know exactly what's happening. We're waiting on Morgan to arrive here in Nashville so she can see Erin. Doris is bringing her and I would like everyone to be praying that they have a safe and uneventful trip. Please remember all of us as we travel back home to Kingsport later. God has really been using Erin in a mighty way to Touch people and I feel he will continue to use her and her family to accomplish this. We Love you All! Thanks you Jesus for the Peace you've given us!
Chris, Kimberly, and Brian

We are praying for you Chris, Kimberly , Brian and Morgan....that the Lord will be your strength!.......Love from all of the Pilgrim Pals

Erin

Good morning! It's almost 9:45 nashville time. I spoke to Erin's nurse this morning. She told me that Erin 's bleeding had increased some so they are starting a medication to try and control that again. Starting Erin back on Norepinephrine to help with her blood pressure. Her Oxygen saturation has stayed a little higher since we raised her last night (about 80). Hopefully we will meet with the doctors sometime this morning to discuss Erin's CT Scan in Depth. This morning I read all the new comments so far to today and it was uplifting to me. I know everyone says they get a blessing from what we write but it's a two way street. I was sitting here all alone trying to hold back tears while reading the comments of dear friends and family. This ordeal has really opened my eyes as to what really matters in my life. I appreciate everyone"s prayers and comments. Please continue to Pray for Erin and her family. It means so much to us! We thank God for strength and peace during all this. Please God, continue to touch and use Erin in a mighty way!

Pilgrim Passing By

Yesterday the Pilgrim had to leave the main highway (the QEW) as he and his family headed for Buffalo, NY. Taking a different route to their destination, the Pilgrim and his family called Terry to get directions. Our beloved Terry was home and sure wasn't much help. All she did was scold the Pilgrim for not getting some much needed rest and told him he shouldn't be using his cell phone while driving.

The Pilgrim enjoyed speaking with Terry regardless of her scolding and arrived safely at his/their destination. Today the Pilgrim and his family will travel east to Rochester, NY where they will enjoy the Strong Museum, an interactive museum especially geared for children.

Last night the Pilgrim and his entourage (6 in total) slept in two queen size beds and one blow-up mattress on the floor. This morning they are suffering from various aches and pains but will continue down the road. The "excellent adventure" continues.

Thanks for your prayers!

URGENT: Please pray diligently for Erin and her family today. They are certainly going through some uncertain and troubled waters. THANK YOU!

Erin Michelle

Drs just came back in and they ARE going to take Erin to ct today and do a full body scan .JUST TOLD US IT WILL BE 3PM CST so be 4pm at home!!!!They say that the benefit is outweighing the risk at this point since her condition has somewhat deteriated. This CT should tell them and us a better description of the actuall shape her lungs are in, if fungus has indeed set up in some or any of her solid organs, and where her blood loss continues to come from. Her abdn is more distended today and firmer which indicates some type of leak somewhere. This move down to ct is really risky and is going to require multiple people to move her and her machines, they actually had to go measure to see if they could make it in the ct room and if she had enough tubing to reach with her in the machine. So this will be a lengthy process and we will update you as soon as we can. Please Pray for all involved in this procedure that God be with them all but MOST OF ALL ERIN MICHELLE, WE ALL LOVE HER SOOOOOO MUCH!!!!!!!!!

Update 6:21.........Just spoke to Dr. and the only 2 definite things he saw was something in the right side of her brain which is possibly/probably a fungus and that her lungs look awful. The radiologists are currently going over her ct with a fine tooth comb. He said that he didnt see anything that made him wanted to call it quits right now, but we wont know any really good information till tommorrow after everyone gets together and talks. Everyone being radioligists,infectious disease, and other doctors.He just wanted to tell us something before he left and thats all he knows. She still reacts to his exam as far as neuroligicaly but he has to see if this possible fungus can even be cleared from her brain. He said he cannot contribute anything he saw to her drop in o2 sats or blood loss so that remains a mystery as well. We should know more tommorrow afternoon. Please continue to pray for Chris,Kimberly and I as we are here united for Erin and pleading to God for his Mercy and Grace to fall upon us to deal with his will!!!!!Pray for our Erin!!!!!!!! PRAY PRAY PRAY!!!!!!!!

Yes! Greater Vision!

David is right about how much that I love "Greater Vision".
They were the first American group that I heard many years ago.
Gerald, in particular is very precious.
Whenever I saw him at concerts, he always reminded us that there was a unsaved man that he was praying for and he asked us, if we could remember, could we pray for him too.
Well about ten years back when he came to Copps Colosseum in Hamilton for the Quartet Convention, he mentioned on stage that the man he had been praying for had been saved!
At intermission, I bought some products from their table and also a photo of the boys and of course I got them to autograph it for me. I had to go and look for that Gerald and when I finally tracked him down, I asked him, seeing as that man was saved, could he please pray for my dad now{Dad Golden]...
"Why sure and I will!" he said. When I gave him my picture to autograph he said, "And now what is your Daddy's name?"
"Cecil Golden", I said.
And then right there and then he signed that picture for my dad!
My picture!!
There was nothing for it but for me to give that picture to Dad Golden when I got home and it has hung in his room these many years now right over the chair where he watches TV.
I told him that the handsome young man, Gerald was praying for him and that is all I said. Dad never objected to Mom Golden framing the picture and hanging it on the wall
Now ...part two of the story...My brother , Teddy who lives in Iowa, went a couple of years back to a "Greater Vision" Concert and he is just like his sister.....just loves to talk to the singers!
Gerald asked him where he was from and when Teddy said that he used to live in Welland, Ontario and his name was Ted Golden...well didn't that Gerald of ours just look him in the eyes and said.."Well I am STILL praying for Cecil Golden!"
A man of his word, eh?
I am praying that part three of this story will be the conclusion ...the day that Dad Golden is finally gloriously saved!





PS Vicki...I am going to try and make an update on Dad and Mom Golden tomorrow!!
I just have to download a few pictures....Love Terry

Heavenly Sounds

A good friend, John Dinnick, forwarded me the following link. The news clip concerns one of my all-time favourite Southern Gospel singers, Gerald Wolfe (pictured in the center).

He has been nominated for a prestigious Dove Award for Best Male Vocalist. Gerald talks about the song which has ministered to him in the most profound manner, Til the Storm Passes By. I share his appreciation for this great song written by Mosie Lister.

Even if you don't have an appreciation for this genre of music please check out the clip. Perhaps you will have a greater understanding of why I love this style of music.

Click here for this clip:

Note: This clip no longer works. It must have have worked on the day the TV station posted it. - David

Hey Pilgrim David...It still works for me!!
And it is well worth watching......Terry

Note: Pilgrim Pals Terry and Susan are both Gerald Wolfe fans. Gerald's group, Greater Vision, has been singing together for 18 glorious years.

Sunday Afternoon

Erin has developed a small problem with her wound vac. Surgery is coming up in about an hour to change out the wound vac because it is leaking. We also need specific prayer for her oxygen levels because they have become somewhat lower. They again reversed her ECMO circuit to try and bring the levels back up and it did briefly so they are going to continue to make minor changes in her positioning and her flow to try and acheive the best levels possible. We talked with the ECMO specilist Dr. and he said for us not to look for the body ct scan to be done because it was too big of a risk to move her. Still possibly may do the bronch procedure to look at her lungs if her levels get better in the next couple days. The cause of the drop in oxygen levels is a major concern now to find out whats causing it. Continue to lift Erin up to our Holy God to come through at this trying time and Miraculously intervene for this sudden drop in o2 levels and eliminate the cause whatever it may be!!! God Bless you ALL!!! John 11:4
TO GOD BE THE GLORY!!!!!
Brian

A Good Day For Erin

God has blessed us with another day! Erin has had a good day! She has rested today and there were no procedures performed. She does have a small leak around the canula in her leg. It is a minimal amount of bleeding and should be able to be controlled. We ask that you continue to pray for the healing of her lungs and the fungal infection. Erin is such a witness and blessing to us all! I can't wait for her to be healed and tell everyone of her journey and how God has provided for her and us all. We are all doing well and continue to be very appreciative of your thoughts and prayers.
Kimberly

Having Fun Yet?

My fellow Ontarians - are we having fun yet with the snow storm :)

It is absolutely wild here! It started last night; this morning was calm - the calm before the storm and it didn't last long. This afternoon has been snow, snow, and more snow and very windy. I've been praying for the people who have to drive in this weather (paramedics, police, firefighters and others).

Just one little item to share and ask for your prayers - I bought a condo this week! God led me to an affordable and lovely 2 story home - it's such a gem! Actually as most of you home owners know this is only the beginning of many other ends that need tying up (eg finalizing the mortgage, meeting with a lawyer). Pray that all falls into place.

Julie (LM)

Please Pray For Erin And Her Mom And Dad And Her Sister...

Hello to All !!!! Sorry for the delayed update today but today as been pretty much a normal day to/for Erin and from talking with Drs and Nurses it will be the same thru the weekend. They put off doing all tests until the first of the week just to give her little body some much needed rest. They did have to give her a couple small amounts of blood not really for any problems but for the fact they were drawing off to much fluid due to her increased output! We thought there was a problem tonight with her wound vac inside her abdomen so surgery was called in to go inside and see what it was but after they were suited up ready for action they found a piece on top of the vac that was messed up so all they had to do was replace it instead of going in her belly. Thank you so much for all of youre support for the entire family. Please continue to pray for Erins lungs to heal quickly so we can get her off ECMO to get rid of the fungus thats causing a higher concern to the Drs daily!!! Also continue to pray for strength for Kimberly and Chris who continue to stay by her side day after day, daylight till way after dark. This trying time has took its toll on us all but yet united us closer to each other for Erin, and in Christ to pull Erin thru with the power of a loving family and loving God who truly answers theunceasing prayer of so many!!! God Bless you All !!!

Brian

The Pilgrim and the Police

Mercy Me is the name of a contemporary Christian worship band. Usually I'm old-fashioned in my musical tastes but I like a lot of their work.

The words Mercy Me took on a whole new meaning a few minutes ago. Traveling south on Hwy. 19 here in Florida I thought I was "going with the flow" of traffic but a Sheriff's cruiser pulled up behind me with his lights flashing. I pulled into the right lane, thinking he wanted to pass me. No such chance! He pulled me over.

After giving him my driver's license and rental car agreement I waited for what seemed like an eternity for the policeman to come back, quietly praying that he would have mercy on this pilgrim from Canada. Finally he approached my car with the "ticket". He told me that he didn't want to spoil the last day of my trip with a $210.50 fine and handed me the "warning citation", not a ticket. Whew! Was I relieved!

The officer showed mercy when I didn't deserve it. I WAS speeding even though I didn't realize it at the time. The penalty should have been meted out but mercy was extended instead. You know where I'm going with this don't you.

We all deserved to be punished for our sins "but God who is rich in mercy" stepped in through His Son and declared us righteous and justified...in Him.

God showed mercy! The officer was merciful. I'm grateful! Now - how can I extend mercy to someone else today?

Something to think about...

Another Great Day For Erin

Hello Everyone! Erin has had another great day for healing to take place! Her lungs looked a little better this morning and her stats have remained in good ranges. I talked to one of the Infectious disease doctors today and he does seem to be really concerned about the yeast fungus. I feel like her lungs are going to have to heal before the doctors will really address the fungus. She's receiving two medications for the fungus. I hope everyone saw the story about Erin on WJHL TV. I thought is was done in a very swwet and compassionate way. If you didn't get to see it on tv, you can go on the internet to tricities.com and click on video. from there look for "girl with 10% chance of living opens her eyes". I want to thank Josh Green of WJHL personally for his wonderful depiction of Erin's story. I also want to thanks all the Kids, Staff, and Faculty of Ross N Robinson School for their help, cooperation, and prayers. It warms my heart to find out how much Erin is loved. I think we could all learn a lesson about love and compassion from these kids. I appreciate everone who continues to think of and pray for Erin and her family. We feel the effects of your prayers every single day! Keep up the good work! To God be all the Glory! I've heard from several old friends today with promises to pray for Erin and that means so much to me! I am so blessed in my life that it's unbelievable! I appreciate everyone at work also. They have been so supportive and understanding. Well I didn't mean to use up so much of tonight's report Bragging on what the Lord has done for me during this time but He knows what we need to hear. I love you all very much! Thanks everyone! Thanks Jesus!

Update On Erin from Her Dad Chris

Good morning to everyone! Erin had another good night! Thank the Lord. I spoke to her nurse this morning for an update and she said she had been a little too active this morning. The nurse said she told Erin she was going to do a procedure and she felt like Erin tried to tell her "no". She said Erin was looking at the doctor and the monitor that shows her vitals. Also she shook her head side to side as if to say no. When she did this her blood pressure dropped some so she will be sedated a little more. We're thankful for this report but we want her to be comfortable. It was hard to leave her last night with her being so responsive to our voices. Katie (Erin's nurse) said she felt her lungs looked better but not to take her word for it and she said through the stethoscope she sounds like a different person! Again, Thank the Lord! She did receive platelets last night but the ECMO Technician said the equipment tends to separate the platelets from the blood. Her abdominal wound vac is getting a little blood but could be due to a dressing change. Surgeons will partially close her abdomen wound today. Please pray that all goes well with that procedure. As I am typing this I have been talking to the infectious disease doctor. He is very concerned with the yeast fungus which is growing in Erin's system. The fungus will thrive in the ECMO circuit as long as she is on it and it will be hard to fight. Another problem is the fungus tends to settle in organs and can harm them. We're just praying for Erin's lungs to heal and that she can come off the Ecmo circuit as soon as possible. Dr. Krausse (infectious disease doctor) still doesn't understand exactly what happened to Erin. He hasn't isolated a specific bug that could cause all the problems. He assured me that the yeast fungus developed later in her system. First her lungs need to heal and come off the ECMO circuit then they can address the fungus problem. While her blood is flowing through all the plactic the fungus will thrive. Let's all pray for Erin's lungs to heal. I think everything else is secondary to that. I appreciate everyone who takes time every day to check this site and remember Erin in their prayers. I thank God for the strength He has given me to be able to cope with this terrible situation. We know God is using Erin to change lives. He deserves all the glory! Thanks everyone!
Chris (Erin's dad)

1:00 PM...Thursday
The dr. just came out and told us they were finished with the wound vac procedure. Things went well and they got the mesh inserted. Her oxygen levels and blood pressure are still doing well. They have gone up on the sedation due to the fact that she is being typical Erin. They are still working on her sedation Dr. A said she is still awake and won't close her eyes. She said their goal today is to get her asleep. It has been great seeing those big, blue, beautiful eyes! However, we do not want her in any discomfort or pain. We also don't want her to worry about what is going on around her. We continue to praise God for the small steps toward her recovery. The healing of her lungs and the fungal infection appear to be our biggest battles at this time. Please continue to pray for these specific things. We continue to be amazed at the outreach of God's hands and compassion through his wonderful people. You all will never know how much each and every thing that has been done has sustained us in our time of need! To God be the Glory for all HE has DONE...and will continue to do.
For those of who in the Tri-Cities- Erin is supposed to be on the WJHL News (Ch. 11) at 5:00p.m. Watch our precious baby and continue to lift us up!
God is good ALL the time! ALL the time God is good!
Kimberly (Erin's Mommy)

Thanks For God's Loving Grace And Thanks For Erin

Erin continues to maintain good numbers on her stats. Her saturation is still around 90. She's been very alert this afternoon, responding to our voices and our constant kissing and petting and loving on her. I've been dreading leaving her tonight to go to my sleep room but the nurse assured us that she would be given some medication to rest. We continue to trust the Lord with Erin and we want His perfect Will to be done in her life. I hope you aren't getting tired of me asking you to pray for Erin (especially her lungs) but that's what she continues to need. I bet the Prayer switchboards in Heaven are buzzing with prayers for her. We appreciate everyone who visits the site and posts comments or sends cards. We think Erin is already a miracle and are amazed at her improvements. Thank you Lord for your Amazing Grace!! I hope everyone rests better tonight knowing Erin is doing so well! Goodnight!
Chris (Erin's dad)

When He cometh, when He cometh

To make up His jewels,

All His jewels, precious jewels,

His loved and His own.

Refrain

Like the stars of the morning,

His bright crown adorning,

They shall shine in their beauty,

Bright gems for His crown.

.............................................

He will gather, He will gather

The gems for His kingdom:

All the pure ones, all the bright ones,

His loved and His own.

Refrain

Like the stars of the morning,

His bright crown adorning,

They shall shine in their beauty,

Bright gems for His crown.

............................................

Little children, little children,

Who love their Redeemer,

Are the jewels, precious jewels,

His loved and His own.

Refrain

Like the stars of the morning,

His bright crown adorning,

They shall shine in their beauty,

Bright gems for His crown.