A few thoughts tonight:

I have been asked a few questions that come up frequently by those of you who read my blog. I thought I would take a bit of time and answer them so you can know what's up. I appreciate all of the prayer and thought that you all put into our lives and want to give you as much as makes sense so that you know what to pray for. So, here it is...in atypical blog fashion:

Q: Josh, you know it's ok if you don't blog everyday right? I mean isn't it draining to have another thing on your plate?
A: Actually, it's nice that you are concerned for me, and I really mean that, but blogging is mostly for me. It allows me to revisit the things I know as truth and write them down. That's comforting in days of complete uncertainty regarding Ava. It's also the best way I know to get a concise message to so many faithful people who are praying. I love knowing that people read this so they know how to pray. Honestly, I look forward to blogging every single day.

Q: Josh, have you checked into flying Ava up north or flying her doc here?
A: Yes, we have looked at both. The variations in air pressure combined with the inability to get to a hospital quickly from 30,000 feet is enough to convince Lisa and me that a leisurely drive over two days in a very roomy vehicle is the best way for Ava to go. Also, this doc lives in NJ and has all of her gear for treatment there, so flying her here would not only be impractical for her, but it would not allow Ava the same level of treatment.

Q: Josh, have you looked into....?
A: Yes. We have spent two months researching every single thing known to man to fight GBM. This is our absolute best option. You all have helped us in reaching this point and we are forever grateful.

Q: Josh, how do you stay so positive?
A: Go back and read some of my blogs from the end of June. I have many days where I can't hold it together. By the end of the day when it's time for me to process it all, I am reminded that God is the only source of comfort, peace and restoration that we have. It's not hard to recognize when there is nothing standing between you and Him.

Q: Josh, are your mom and dad ok?
A: I know they hurt for us and for Ava. I also know they raised me to know a God who is omniscient. They fall to their knees for Ava every single day and pray there is some way God will heal her this side of heaven. However, their faith cannot be shaken by what they don't understand. A God they can understand is a God that is not big enough to handle what we are going through. Mom and Pops are in it with us and fighting through...they are as fine as they can be, but count on your prayers just like Lisa and I. (this also goes for Lisa's mom, Pats)

Q: Josh, is there anything we can do besides pray?
A: Some of you, yes. If there is I am not hesitant to ask. I am not too proud to ask for help when it will benefit my family. For most of you though, we need your prayers more than anything else you can offer. If you wonder if we need it, you can always ask me. I'll tell you straight up if it will help or not...but don't be offended if it won't.

Q: Josh, did you read that one comment I left on your blog in July?
A: Yes, but I can't recall them all off the top of my head. So please forgive me if I have forgotten which one to attribute to you. We read every one and are encouraged daily by your thoughts. Please keep them coming. We feed off of your encouragement in this daily battle.

Q: Josh, do you have any idea how many people read your blog everyday?
A: Uh huh. There are between 6 and 11 thousand people that read this each day from all corners of the world. Lest you think I would think I am some big deal because of those numbers, you should know that there were 50 a day before Ava got sick. My girl has some for real fans and prayer warriors out there.

Ok, that's all of them for now. There are a few others, but those are the major ones that I get several times per week.

You all are incredible and we are blessed to be a part of your extended family. Thanks for praying. Please don't stop.

A special thank you to all of you who participated in the facebook 24 hour prayer vigil for Ava that ends in 90 minutes. What a gift you gave us today.

Oh, and Ava is doing fine. She just spent the day sleeping and watching movies with her Grandmas.