"I Still Feel Like the Luckiest Man"

Dear Friends & Family,

Lying in bed last night, both of us exhausted from a long weekend in Palm Springs, Curt turned his head toward me and said, "Even with all that is happening to me, I still feel like the luckiest man." I am continually amazed at his strength, courage and ability to accept this role. I told him how wonderful he is and that I am the luckiest girl in the world!

On the way to church the other day, Corbin was talking about how he thanks God often for what he has, then together we shared all the things we are thankful for. We both agreed how thankful we are to have such an amazing dad/husband, through everything Curt remains supportive and positive and an incredible role model.

Here's a little update on the kids...first of all we are so proud of how they do their best in every circumstance of their lives. Corbin (12) transitioned to middle school seamlessly, along with playing football, attending Wednesday night church, planning friend days and earning A's(7) and a B(1) on his report card this quarter, all this with a broken hand, we are so proud of him. Cayden (16) continues to earns A's in school, works 3-4 days a week after school, helps with things around the house and keeps a full social schedule with his many friends. Clarissa (18) is keeping up with her college classes, constantly busy with her sorority and community activities, working 2 days a week and spending time with many different friends. The kids love spending time with Curt and he loves being with them, he is still teaching them so much. They choose to make the most of the time we have left as a family, laughing most of the time, but also shedding tears together or in private.

On the surface our family looks great, but down inside times have never been tougher. Each of us, including Curt, are struggling physically and emotionally. Trying to juggle school, work, household needs, meals and Curt's needs, tends to leave us depleted. We are mindful to help the family member who needs it most at any moment. A while back Corbin was really struggling emotionally, he didn't say anything, we all just felt it and each of us set out to do what we could to make his life easier. The kids have done it for me and they have each done it for the other. It amazes me; this silent feeling or family intuition, not expressed by words, but we all know who is hurting and in need of extra support.

Curt & I spent this past weekend in Palm Springs relaxing, swimming and laughing with great friends. It was a nice change of routine, a beautiful location, and great for Curt to have so many guys to lift him into the pool, jacuzzi, etc. Thank you! Although he missed the kids, he really enjoyed the weekend. The house and grounds were so big, he had plenty of room to get around, find a bit of privacy or locate a quiet spot to talk to someone one on one. Curt is an example to us all; whether he's enjoying a sunset, the smell of the dry winter air or the laughter of family and friends he is savoring every moment!

Please continue to pray for strength for Curt. He is so tired and his patience is tested constantly. Even when he is home all day he gets very tired and goes to bed early. We received a few emails of support over the past few weeks and Curt enjoyed reading them. We know by the stat counter that 300-400 people are following our story weekly, but we don't know who you are. We'd love to hear from you ziemkefamily@msn.com . Meanwhile, thank you for your support and prayers!

Love,
Cindy, Curt, Clarissa, Cayden & Corbin

Palm Springs Weekend with great friends (in the amazing dining room of our grand rental house)!

Thank you Lisa (and Paul) for the "Circle of Friends" candles.
Our friendship will be forever sealed by the memories we have of the all times we have spent together!

Curt had a great time hanging out in the pool & jacuzzi with everyone.