Out and About

As I ponder over the last week, we are grateful for the "good days", that allow Britten to do the things that he anticipated doing when he got home from his mission.  One of our family's favorite summertime activites is riding 4-wheelers in the mountains.  As we went with some dear friends to Bear Lake, they helped us fulfill Britten's 1st experience back on a 4-wheeler.  He was so thrilled to drive the 4-wheeler on the road for a few miles.  Then we switched places as we got up into the mountains.  He was so happy to be up in the mountains, doing what he had always enjoyed doing before.  Afterwards we enjoyed a soak in the hot pools and then some swimming.  We have been careful to not get water in his ear because of the fractures and damage there. 

As we went to the ENT this week and he gave us the OK for Britt to go swimming.  That was great news for a "State Champion" swimmer.  It has been fun watching Britten as he has given  "advice" to his little brother, Jaxon during swim lessons.  
Audiology tests determined that Britt has a mild hearing loss, and surgery can be done to correct this.
He also needs some future tests for hearing and balance, as he is dealing with dizzy spells.
Britten still continues being nauseous, so his days are not always easy.  With Speech and Physical therapy and Doctor appointments, our days continue to stay busy, even when he is not feeling well. 

Britten was so excited to meet with the High Council and share his testimony, but the Hic-ups prevented him from doing so.  The Hic-ups stayed with him for 2 days, and he was so disappointed he didn't get to report his mission.  He will get the opportunity again, in a couple of weeks.  Britten was also grateful for the opportunity to share his testimony and some of his feelings "on video" that was going to be shown at girls camp.  It is difficult for him because there are so many things he wants to say, but has a hard time being able to say them.
He shared with me what he wanted to say to the girls...He said, "He knows that God loves all of us.  He knows that God didn't make the bus hit him.  But Heavenly Father said, if something happens to you, I will be there to help you.  God will be there to help all of us through our trials."  "I believe that God allows things to happen because He knows that it is through our trials and challeges that we will become better."

I have sensed sadness in Britten the past few days and I asked him what was wrong.  He said, "Do you know what I would be doing today, if the bus hadn't hit me?"   In my mind I knew, but I let him share his feelings.  He said,  he would be packing to come home, and spending time with companions.  He feels so bad that he didn't get the chance to say his "goodbyes" to the people in Brazil, that he loves so much.  He didn't get the chance to meet with his Mission President and tell him how much he loves and respects him.  He feels bad, that he didnt get to "finish his mission."
As we talked about this, I experienced much sadness too.  Britten's life has changed.  He has alot of difficult challenges ahead of him, and yet I know he can do it.  Better yet,  he knows he can do it.  When we left for Brazil right after the accident happened, I told the Bishop, "If anyone can do this, Britten can!"  Britten has always had determination, and more importantly, great faith and trust in the Lord.
I said to Britten, "I dont know why this happened, but we have to Trust in the Lord with all thine heart, and lean not unto thine own understanding."


 We are overwhelmed with the "service" of friends and neighbors.  Just when I think the tears have run dry, another act of kindness is shown towards our family. We sincerely thank you, for your love, kindness, support, and prayers for it truely has made our burdens lighter. All our love,  Schenk family