Today is Monday, November 2, 2026, Issue #336
“ You never know how strong you are, until being strong is your only choice.”
— Bob Marley
Feline Tomfoolery
By Brady Wilfork Snugglebum & Belichick McDaniels Runtzilla
“Um, excuse me, human. Where exactly do you think you’re going? I’ve made myself quite comfortable on this suitcase, and I have absolutely no intention of moving. I suggest you cancel whatever plans you’ve made. Where will I find a warm lap to lay upon?
– Belichick, as his human prepared to depart to London
Moments by Mira
www.everafterphotograpypnw.com
Located in Gig Harbor, Washington, Ever After Photography PNW is owned and operated by Mira Nachtigall, a long-time friend of Rachel.
Mental Health Minute
When Life Feels Out of Control
Sometimes life throws unexpected challenges that leave people feeling helpless, overwhelmed, and emotionally exhausted. The desire for answers, solutions, and reassurance that everything will be okay can be overwhelming. Unfortunately, life doesn’t always work on a predictable timeline.
When faced with uncertainty, it’s easy for the mind to wander toward worst-case scenarios. Constant worry about things beyond one’s control can add to emotional exhaustion.
A few important reminders:
- It’s okay to not be okay.
- Strength and vulnerability can exist together.
- Rest is important, even when the mind won’t slow down.
- A lack of control doesn’t mean a loss of hope.
Takeaway: Not everything needs to be figured out today. Focusing on what can be controlled, allowing room for grace, and taking life one day at a time can make difficult moments a little more manageable. Sometimes, simply getting through the day is enough.
The Results are…?
Blake’s Journey
What a ride it has been and continues to be. The good news is that Blake’s lab values decreased enough to allow for him to come home on Tuesday (definitely not back to normal yet). With significant weight loss and lack of energy from being ill since the 12th and hospitalized since the 18th, it will take some time to regain his energy.
Rachel has worked in healthcare for two decades and has never before seen discharge paperwork with a question mark next to the diagnosis. With Blake’s bone marrow biopsy results still pending to date, there are many unanswered questions. She had originally thought the results came back negative but was wrong. Pending remains the status.
Why did he fall so ill? Why did his organs begin to shut down? How can this be avoided in the future? All questions are currently unknown making the future a frightening prospect.
By the time this issue publishes, Alec will have returned to Utah while Rachel will remain with Blake for the next week.
Blake is feeling well (aside from residual issues related to lying in a hospital bed for so long). He is slowly regaining his strength and getting a lot of rest. The photo below is Alec and Blake while on a walk the day after discharge. Blake was anxious for some fresh air.
Rachel is doing well, considering. She is sleeping a bit better and is able to think a bit straighter. Overwhelmed is still a current feeling but that too will decline. She hopes the biopsy results will shed light on things.
A Bit of Good Luck
While cleaning Blake’s home, Rachel found a few ladybugs hanging about. He does live in the country, and it is quite common to find little critters inside.
A Little Indulgence
Rachel is allowing herself to indulge a bit more than usual but is also ensuring she gets plenty of healthy food, too.
Below is an iconic British treat, the Millionaire’s Shortbread. Rachel absolutely loves these treats.
With both of her boys being great cooks, Rachel enjoyed a group effort with a delicious chicken parm for dinner.
A Bit of Ely
Ely is a town four miles from Blake’s home and the nearest civilization. The four miles is full of twisty narrow farm roads making it a drive rather than a walk. There are some lovely sites in Ely.
A Bit of Bury
Bury is where the West Suffolk Hospital is located. The walk from the Bury train station leads walkers down a peaceful path through the wilderness.
Views from the Train
Sunset from the train was something new for Rachel. Sunset in general is something she doesn’t often experience. She has seen a lot of sunsets on this trip.
Sites of Prickwillow
This is the little country town that Blake lives in while stationed here in England.
The friendly neighbor cat that is filling Rachel’s feline cup.
Sites of London
Maybe pushing it a little but Blake wanted to take Alec and Rachel to see Book of Mormon live in London. Alec would fly out the next morning.
Rachel can’t believe it is already November. Hopefully this week brings an understanding as to why this happened and how it can be avoided in the future. For now, she holds on to hope. Until next time, be well.
Feel free to stick around (below) and like, rate, share and comment (direct to Rachel). She is always looking for content ideas and would love input.