When someone suffers a stroke, life often becomes a daily celebration.  So much is exciting and promising and wonderful.  Today Arla had more success with swallowing, and it is a reason to celebrate.  She swallowed a few bites of applesauce and some yogurt.  She was able to chew and swallow some cheese and an animal cracker.  She also mastered a spoonful of thickened water.  While one would think that water would be the easiest thing to swallow, it lacks texture and is difficult to feel in the mouth which can lead to it going into the lungs.  Therefore, the water is thickened to assist a stroke survivor in feeling the substance in her mouth.

Arla is such a powerful force these days.  God is so amazing.  Only our Lord could weaken a woman physically only to raise her up more powerful in her ministry and in the lives of family and friends than ever before.  And she does all this without speaking a word.  Continue to pray for her healing, for Harold’s strength, and for those who work with her.  If any out there doubt the power of God, just look to Arla as an example of God’s mighty works.  She believes.  She has the power of the Lord.   Thanks be to God.