Our 100th Post

Yes, we're still here. We traveled to the tiny town of Falls City for Christmas this year. That's where I (Scot) grew up. It has fewer people in it now than when I lived there - population 474. It is still a wonderful place thought, full of relatives and memories on almost every corner. It was a white Christmas there three years ago, but not this year. It was actually quite hot.

After the four hour drive, which wasn't too bad, we had another gift-giving Christmas celebration with my parents and brother. It was a real treat. We attended the only church in town on Christmas morning, Holy Trinity Catholic Church, which was the church I attended growing up. We then spent the rest of the day at my grandfather's house, which was filled with aunts, uncles and cousins. That's what Christmas means to me - being with family at my grandfather's house. It was special having my family there too.

We made it back home last night after another four hour drive, this only a little more painful than the first. I'm not yet one of those dads that say "don't make me come back there..." or "I'll turn this thing around." Liza has not had physical therapy in over a week and is feeling the lack. She told me just a second ago that she feels like she's moving backward. She hasn't been able to rest well and she's been in constant discomfort. If we can get her resting better, that will be a huge step forward. Please pray for that. She will have five days of physical therapy this week.

School is done for the semester and it feels really good to have a break. I'm doing some clean-up study (a few things left over from the semester work load) and trying to find time to do some projects around the house. Blessings to you all and many thanks for continuing to check in here, read, and pray for my sweet wife. I also thought I'd share some more family Christmas photos.

The Christmas Splits

I haven't posted in a while because I have both finished my semester of school and subsequently crashed the plane, so to speak. I have been totally wiped the last few days. Otherwise, the Polloks are still here and doing rather well.

Liza actually DANCED on Saturday night! Well, she performed a solo at the beginning of a piece called "Agnus Dei" in which she basically "moves her arms around," in her own words. She did no jumping, turning or spinning for you that are worried. It was a big step, very encouraging for her, and made all the family very proud and worried. Our good God is bringing my wife back to her passionate ministry with a new fervor and drive. It really is a beautiful thing to watch.

Yesterday I drove Sonja to the airport headed to Australia to spend Christmas with her family and friends there. That means she'll be arriving about now, our time. It's a long way. We are headed to Falls City this morning to spend Christmas with my family there. It will be our first without my grandma and should be a special one. Jacob and Amy will also be heading to Australia in a couple weeks, after they and Steven spend Christmas with Amy's family. So we are all headed in different directions this Christmas, which I suppose is becoming more and more normal in our time.

Many warm blessings on your Christmas celebration this year. Please be full of our gratitude and thoughts as you and your friends and family gather around the warmth of the story of our Savior, humbled to be born in a feeding trough in the likeness of you and I. He was born on a mission to save us from our sins - the only thing by the way, that no other world religion offers a solution for. Christ was born to solve man's deepest problem - himself. I pray that you find yourself in that story this Christmas and perhaps for the first time, you truly celebrate Christ's birth. Blessings and Merry Christmas.

Christmas after a long year

This year the Pollok family experienced quite a bit. We will have gone through three surgeries, one funeral, and over two dozen rounds of antibiotics. But Christmas is our favorite time of year and we're extremely excited to be here again, whole, healthy and together. Liza is still making progress in baby steps. She's busy plugging away at therapy and is trying to keep the headaches to a minimum, but they're not really in her control. Please keep praying for her. Here are some of the cuter pictures from our new family Christmas album.

Long Weekend

We've had a great weekend, but it was full. We had one of our good friends come in and take some family Christmas photos at our house on Friday morning, AFTER Liza had yet another physical therapy appointment. They turned out extremely good and we'll post some soon. I worked about ten hours that evening and Liza went to the studio again. Saturday was unusual in that Liza and I got to sleep in a bit. Sonja took the kids for breakfast and we went back to bed. It was glorious. I worked again that evening and Liza and the kids went down to Spring for the third evangelistic Christmas show her school and company has been involved in. They froze their skinny little rears off. We again slighted this morning by taking the family just to one hour of church, our adult community. Then it was home for naps and football. We started to put up some outside Christmas lights tonight and just spent a lot of time lounging around the house, baking cookies, etc. Tomorrow it's back at it. Thanks for the continued prayers. Keep praying for Liza's recovery, especially in the area of neck pain and headaches.

The Daily Grind

It would seem that Liza's life is consumed with physical therapy at the moment. She went yesterday for an extended and fruitful time and will go again tomorrow morning. Her range of motion in the neck is steadily increasing through much hard work and pain. I'm very proud of her.

Both of the kids are fighting off illness; Andrew has it the worst. He has missed his preschool classes all week. Hopefully over the weekend, which is supposed to be cold, he will start to feel better. Poor little guy has been such a trooper. Liza and I have also been working quite a bit lately. I was at the restaurant 14 hours yesterday and will go again tomorrow - hopefully not as long. Liza has also been working longer hours at the studio. She actually jumped yesterday. She probably won't do it again for a while. Many blessings.

More Returns

Tonight, all of the Polloks officially returned to their small group at church for the first time. Liza has been several times, I've been a couple of times, but the four of us have not been together since before Liza's surgery. It was a big deal for us to get back to some of the best friends we have.

Yesterday we had a wonderful time as a family. I went and picked up a tree in the morning and we got all of the decorations down out of the attic. The kids loved going through the boxes and putting all of the ornaments on the tree. It was a ton of fun for them.

The best part for me was putting up the manger. We have been telling them the story of Jesus' birthday but it was fascinating to see them "take in" the manger scene. Izzy keeps going and stealing baby Jesus. Today she blew his nose because he had "boogers." We're trying to find new and creative ways to make Christmas about the Lord for our kids, about giving, about worship, about the story. It's quite the adventure being a parent.

Liza did more physical therapy today and has been in some pain ever since. She's definitely not getting an "enjoyable" massage when she goes to massage therapy, lest anyone misunderstand. Her therapist spent almost two hours today working on her neck with hot rocks and deep tissue massage. That is not a pleasant thing for a neck in Liza's condition. And she's got several more lined up for this week. We'll stay in touch.

Church Double Dip

Liza actually went to church twice today and fared rather well. This morning the whole family went to a bit of "big church" and then it was off to our community group - the most that Liza can handle at this time. She enjoyed catching up with the couples there and then it was off home. (Some pictures from the day - Izzy's wonderful disposition and Andrew hiding in the couch.)

After lunch, nap, bath time and a light dinner, we all headed back to church for our annual Christmas Cafe. Tonight was the last of four shows and it was absolutely fantastic. All four of us sat together down front and the kids loved it as much as we did. They clapped and sang and danced. It was really a nice time. Liza was blessed to have several people that have been praying for her and supporting us come up and visit. It was a wonderful night out as a family.

The only challenge was getting the kids settled and down off their sugar high - lots of candy available at the Cafe. Ah, it was worth it.

This week coming is filled with finalizing school for the semester, work for both of us, and lots of physical therapy. Andrew is fighting a cold and cough and Izzy is hopefully holding off on another ear infection until tubes come the week after. You can still pray for the muscles in Liza's neck to start cooperating with physical therapy - especially those on the front right and back left (sounds like we're changing her tires). Most of her pain comes from those two places and from all over when she does too much. But generally, I think she is still encouraged and progressing. Thanks for all your prayers, well wishes, and support. We are indebted to you all. Blessings.

A Word from Paul

A wise, godly, old Bible professor I know of was once asked a question. "What would you do differently if you could do it all over again?" His answer was simple and quickly given. "I would read the Bible more."

I think of that statement very often, especially when I find that I haven't sought the joy and intimacy of reading my Bible in a while. Yesterday was one of those days. I've been reading through the book of 2 Corinthians. This was among what I read:

For we who live are constantly being delivered over to death for Jesus' sake, so that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our mortal flesh. So death works in us, but life in you. But having the same spirit of faith, according to what is written, "I believed therefore I spoke," we also believe, therefore we also speak, knowing that He who raised the Lord Jesus will raise us also with Jesus and will present us with you. For all things are for your sakes, so that the grace which is spreading to more and more people may cause the giving of thanks to abound to the glory of God.
Therefore we do not lose heart, but though our outer man is decaying, yet our inner man is being renewed day by day. For momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison, while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal.

I think that's all that need be said.

Catching Up

The last few days have been filled with activity. Preschool for the kids, work/school/sinus infection for me, and more physical therapy and even some teaching for Liza. Yes, that's right, she went to the studio tonight and taught a level 7 ballet class, after driving herself to a therapy appointment and the grocery store. She's doing quite well, but it's all taking a toll. She is in quite a bit of pain and is utterly exhausted. I'm trying to get her to slow down a little bit, but you can see how well that's working.

Today, the therapist could move Liza's head all the way to her left shoulder, but on the other side (stretching the left side of the neck) it didn't go nearly as far. She was with her for two hours today working on the muscles and her range of motion. She will go back to St. Luke's early tomorrow for another appointment there just to see if her experience gets any better. The more therapy the quicker the recovery...but she can't over do it.

Thanks again for all of your faithful reading. Many blessings and many thanks.

Mom...on her own again

I'm so very proud of my wife. She is working hard to get back to normal. She had another physical therapy appointment today but she wasn't impressed. It was at St. Luke's, but the therapist wasn't as good as the other she's been going to, and she did all of the same stuff. So it's back to our good friend Cindy from now on. She only went to St. Luke's because we wanted to see if the PT that the neurologist ordered was any different that what we've been receiving. Question asked and answered.

I worked a double again today, so Liza was actually mom by herself today. The kids went to preschool again so she had a little reprieve this morning, the afternoon made up for it. Little Izzy, who is tentatively scheduled to receive a second set of tubes December 20, stumbled and busted her tiny little lip. It was quite a dramatic scene from what I've heard. But otherwise, the children are as cute and good as they've always been (they're both getting really good at pushing each other with quite a bit of force).

Many blessings to you all.

First Solo Sortie

Believe it or not, Liza got in a car and went out on her own for the first time today. During the kids' nap time, she grabbed the keys (with my hesitant approval) and slowly headed down the road to do some very minor Christmas shopping, one of her favorite activities of the year. So please keep praying for her...and all the others on the road. (She probably won't do that again for a while, I was a nervous wreck.)

The Providence of God

Today was a restful day for Liza...at least in the beginning of it, that is. She rested relatively well during the night, then helped the kids and I get ready for church. We left for a little breakfast date of donuts and chocolate milk (not the most nutritious meal, but fun) and she went back to bed. The kids love church. They each made little crafts and talked about the Christmas story in their respective rooms. I finished teaching the book of Ruth in our Sunday School class. We got home a little after one and woke Liza up with immediate drama. She did get to lay back down for a nap after lunch. The evening was a beautifully simple Sunday evening, filled with playing and watching football. Liza needed a restful day after such a hectic day yesterday.

While we're on the subject, the book of Ruth has captured my attention. On reason is that I've been translating it from the Hebrew all semester and have had several exams on the subject. The other reason is that I've been teaching it and trying to internalize its wonderful message, which foundationally is about God's providential working in human affairs and the kindness and loyalty that we are asked to show as His children. The intricacies of the story prove the point very well. My favorite passage is in chapter 2, "and Ruth just happened to chance upon the field belonging to Boaz." I just love that because "if Ruth picks the wrong field, we can take down the Christmas lights," as one of my professors says. The narrator writes this account in such a way as to describe Ruth walking down the road trying to decide which field to glean in; for some reason she chooses Boaz's field. God providentially provided for the desperate situation of a widow and a Gentile in the most gentle guidance. Wow. I love it. That's what God does. He graciously provides for our needs in his wonderful plan. In the book of Ruth it turned out to be King David, and the bloodline of Jesus. In the life of the Polloks, sometimes its just a restful Sunday afternoon when we need it the most.

Busy Weekend

Liza actually had planned to go to the studio again yesterday but thankfully decided to try to rest. I'm not sure that she accomplished her goal though. The kids had the meltdown of all meltdowns late last night, as I was away at school of course. Liza and her mum had to try to handle two hysterical kids while they were both running on fumes.

This morning we both arose early, I back to a full day of school, and Liza to a local high school to prepare her girls for their involvement in a fundraiser. Then tonight, she will do the same for an evangelistic Christmas ministry in Spring (a town just south of us). Izzy and Andrew are excited to go and see the camels. Izzy wants to pet them. Yeah, we'll see about that. She talks a big talk. She LOVES animals...but from a distance. Tomorrow, another Sunday School teaching opportunity. We've been going through the book of Ruth. I'm loving it.

I've also been thinking about what I have discovered is one of the most prevalent emotions or dispositions of our age; one that I am intimately associated with. Exhaustion. I don't think there is a more popular answer in our home to the question "how are you?" I'm sure you relate - especially if you're an American, but probably just because you're a human. For some reason we are tempted to measure the quality of our day by the amount of things we get done. Exhaustion then becomes like an award at the end of a "good" day. The Bible would agree...sometimes. To be tired at the end of a hard day's work is a good thing. But busy-ness is not always good. Remember Jesus' words, "Martha, Martha..." And although I hate it, I feel extremely busy. Most of us do.

The beautiful side of busy-ness though, is the opportunity it affords us to depend and rely on God. In the midst of our running and panting and trying and hurrying and working, we MUST become intimately acquainted with the strength, peace, hope, and invigorating Spirit that only God provides. Liza and I have unexpectedly bumped up against this strength and peace. I pray and hope that we become addicted to it more than we become addicted to busy-ness. I love the way God enjoys displaying His strength in our weakness. His peace in our busy-ness. His calm in our storm.

Only God

Liza said tonight that she has taken more medication for pain today than she has in a long while. She needed to do that because she has been attempting more activity (and has been forced to fend off two beautiful kids by herself several times this week). She will have another massage therapy appointment tomorrow to continue trying to regain her range of motion. Her dance company and other students will be ministering in Spring this weekend and have a part in a local fundraiser at McCullough High School on Saturday. As things start to pick up I've seen both a new spark and a new fatigue in my lovely bride. Please continue to pray for her.

The Lord Jesus has been so sweet to us recently, giving us several unforgettable moments with our children. I've had several "conversations" with Izzy and Andrew both and they have been learning and experiencing many new things lately. It has truly been a precious time for us all. In fact, I think the single most prevalent and noteworthy emotion or attitude that I've had for a good time now is gratitude. I am so grateful that God is a good God who loves to rescue his children out of difficult situations. I am also so grateful for the hundreds, if not thousands, or people who have personally helped us and prayed for us in this time. I don't think I will ever get over (nor do I want to) how much they have impacted me these last few months. There are many times in the day when my inner words fail me as I think about them. Only a God like this can bring beauty out of suffering. Only Jesus can bring life out of the grave. Only our God can make someone grateful for a tragedy. Many blessings.

Picking Up Speed

Since I've started this post over three times now, I think I've lost my ability to write at this late hour. I'll cut to the chase then. Liza had another massage therapy appointment today that went well but was difficult and painful. She has several muscles on the sides and back of her neck that just aren't wanting to cooperate. She also was not able to rest during the day, for the second day in a row, because of a new-home construction across the street. I don't know what's going on over there but I think today they were drilling ice cores or dynamiting a stubborn stud. I (Scot) had to work a double at the restaurant but was thankful to come home for a couple hours in between to see the kids and Liza. Tomorrow will be much the same. The kids are well. Andrew had preschool again today and loved it. Izzy is getting another ear infection we fear. This means a possible second tube surgery before the new year.

This weekend begins more of Liza's annual Christmas ministry, a job she has loved dearly the last six or so years that she's been involved. It is headed by Sonja's church and has been a tremendous production in years past. Liza and her girls have been on the team since the beginning as dancers and actors in this evangelistic Christmas show. That all begins this weekend and Liza is having to make sure her girls are ready. Her company is also involved in a fundraiser for a local school this weekend. On top of that, I have class on Friday night and all day Saturday. So, yes, we do still need your prayers. Many blessings.

More Activity...More Pain

For those of you who know Liza, you know that she is tough and likes to push herself. Well, she's doing that. Physical therapy has been rough and she's been attempting more and more, which is all okay by the doctors. They have encouraged her to regain normality as soon as she is able. This afternoon, the kids and I took her to the studio so that she could spend just 30 minutes with a student. This student, Sabrina, will be filling in for Liza in a solo role during an annual Christmas ministry with which Liza's school is involved. Just a half hour walking through the dance was enough. She is now going to try to recover with a nap.

Liza made her return to church yesterday and that was also trying. We only attempted our Adult Community class for her first go round (just as I, regrettably, have been doing recently with two kids and no mommy). Being Thanksgiving weekend, it was a light crowd which helped her to take it all in. I thought she did great.

Thanks again for your continued prayers and love.

More Physical Therapy

Liza is currently at another physical therapy and massage therapy appointment. It's definitely not as glamorous as one might think. She comes home in quite a bit of pain from the exercises that are trying to get the range of motion back in her neck. Just last night she was showing me the noticeable difference in her neck tendons and muscles from left to right. This process will be lengthy and trying for her. So please continue to keep her in your prayers.

On a different note, Liza and I are at least planning to have a date night tonight! That will be the first one...well...I honestly can't remember the last one. We are excited to just talk and catch up a bit. Even though it is a rainy and bitterly cold day for south Texas, the kids are I will go get Liza in a bit and then attempt to get set up for an early time for just us. We'll see how it goes. Much love and thanks.

Thankful

On this Thanksgiving morning, while our turkey is in the oven and other goodies are waiting their turn, many of our thoughts have turned to you. For those who have been reading this blog and praying for Liza, and the many of you who have given on her behalf and enjoyed the benefit concert, how can we ever thank you enough. I wish I could tell each of you individually just how thankful I am like I did with my kids and wife this morning. I suppose this will have to suffice for most of you until we meet again. We love you all and are so grateful for your prayerful and generous presence in our life. Our faith is strong because we see God working through you. Many blessings and happy forkfuls.

Early Snow

Yes, the first snow of the season came early to the Pollok home this year. The kids and I took Liza to a physical therapy/massage appointment this morning and then it was off to work for me, while the kids stayed with one of their favorite sitters until mommy was done. I got an early break before I was to go back for dinner and came home to a fiasco...but a funny one.

As you can see from the pictures, Andrew, and probably his buddy Jeremiah, took a large container of corn-starch baby powder and decided that it should "snow" on Thomas and his friends. I'm not sure how, but this "snow" made its way on top of his chest of drawers, in the window blinds, in the closet, on the bed, and everywhere in between. Everything we patted or touched reacted like it had been stuck in an old attic for twenty years. Poof. It was too funny and cute for us to be cross at Andrew, but he does understand that another "snow" incident is unacceptable. What else can you say? His room has never smelled so good. Have you ever tried to vacuum up 20 oz. of powder spread over 120 square feet of carpet?

Liza is in quite a bit of pain right now from the PT and is trying to sleep it off. She slept better last night than she has in a while thanks to some new meds. She has been going without for a while but the pain was not allowing her to sleep properly, which in turn leads to more discomfort. So I called our friend Shirley, the nurse practitioner, yesterday and she called in a script for us. It seems to be helping now, but we'll see how the afternoon and evening go. Blessings.

There and Back Again

I arrived home again tonight a little after 6 PM. I obviously did not have access to the Internet while I was away or I would have kept you all up to date.

I thought the weekend away was extremely successful. I spoke to a group of high school students in four sessions about the concept of our awkward position as Christians in this world. Peter addresses his first epistle to a group he calls "aliens and strangers." That was the theme of the retreat. In a basic sense, I talked about suffering and tried to open up for the students a biblical concept and theology of suffering. I had a lot of fun and I think the students were impacted. Pray that God will continue to work on them.

Meanwhile, Liza was home with the kids aided by the most amazing mother-in-law on the planet. Sonja was here throughout the weekend helping Liza do almost everything. The kids were pretty rowdy throughout the weekend and especially when daddy got home, but Liza did fairly well. She was still in substantial pain throughout the weekend when I would call and she wasn't able to rest very well. But it was joyous to see her play with the kids when I got home. She had moments where we all forgot about her surgery and recovery because she was just enjoying her kids so much. She laughed and even ran across the floor chasing Izzy once. It was great to see. But of course, now she has a pretty bad headache. We're turning in early to try to catch up on our sleep. Many blessings to you all and thank you for your continued concern and prayers.

Another Weekend

Well, in just about an hour Liza is actually headed back to the studio. She will teach a bit and run through a couple dances that the company is working on for Christmas. She fared well Wednesday with just a bad headache. We'll pray again today that she doesn't over do it.

I'm off for another speaking engagement this weekend. Again, another scheduled event for a friend in Austin that was on the books before Liza was sick. It's just in Austin this time and I'll be back on Sunday afternoon. We have some wonderful help lined up for over the weekend but please keep Liza and the kids in your prayers. I hate being gone at times like this but there's little we can do. I'm very excited to go and share the gospel and teach the Bible with these kids though. Their student pastor is an old friend and I'm looking forward to seeing him again soon. This is my passion. Please pray for us all over the weekend. Thanks.

Back to the Studio

Liza actually went back to the studio today for several hours. Believe it or not, she actually walked through a dance just to try to get back into the swing of things. She has felt so encouraged and motivated by the benefit concert that she longs to get back to dancing. She actually did not fare too badly afterwards either. My boss offered me another night off because there were too many servers scheduled and I gladly took the kids on a mall-date so mom could rest. I jumped at the chance, even though work is a priority for us, because I've really been longing for more personal time with Izzy and Andrew. Liza is reading now in bed with a pounding headache, waiting for the meds to kick in. I think she is still feeling a tiny bit stronger every day - slow progress.

I also wanted to add this picture to the blog so you could see the many long hours of work by our small group in action. This is a picture of the silent auction area during intermission at the benefit, which was held at the beautiful Woodlands United Methodist Church. Together with our church, Faith Bible Church, and of course the wonderful Ballet School there were scores of individuals working hard on our behalf. Our small group, the greatest collection of couples in the world, organized and managed this area with tremendous success, thanks also to all of the donations, which were mostly from the Ballet School. I think each class made a basket - and they were amazing. And Sonja, Liza's mum, also worked tirelessly on the production and pretty much everything else. The concert would not have happened without her and the Ballet School, that is certain (Sonja has even been teaching all of Liza's classes!) When I first opened this picture, all I saw was love in action. Liza and I had fun trying to recognize the hundred plus people in the photo. Again, many thanks and blessings to all who attended and those who were there in spirit.

A Night Off

Andrew went to preschool again today and had a huge Thanksgiving party. Liza, Izzy and my parents went to be with him. I, unfortunately, was stuck at work, deep in the weeds. He had a wonderful time and told me all about it when I got home. His school and teachers are truly outstanding and we are so blessed to have been able to get him in this year.

I was supposed to work a double today, but since one of our wonderful and regular sitters was sick, I called in between shifts and my boss gave me the night off. What a treat. I took the kids grocery shopping and then made dinner while we playing and enjoyed just being the four Polloks again. Liza was still too weary to get up and go to our small group, which met tonight. Oh, how we long to get back to them soon.

Generally speaking, Liza had a relatively good day although she was not able to take a nap. This has been one of the few days since surgery that she wasn't able to catch at least one. I've noticed that the spark the concert started in her is still there. She's laughing more and planning on returning to the studio tomorrow for a short time to walk through a dance. Can you believe that? I'm so proud of her, yet a bit worried at the same time. She'll just have to take it slow and listen to her body. Pray for that, please. I also thought you'd like to see my bride speaking in public (She was in horrendous pain at that moment and simply hates the picture). It was a landmark moment for her and one of the proudest moments I've had in my marriage. And I wasn't even there. Many blessings.

Home Sweet Home

I was greeted at the door by my two beautiful kids just before 9:00 PM this evening. It is a joy to see them and my bride again. The kids and I ate a late dinner together and laughed so much that the others in the house told us to be quiet. My parents are still here and have been helping in tremendous ways during my absence. Unfortunately, they have to leave tomorrow.

My time away was very fruitful but taxing because of the circumstances. I hated to be away from my family at this time but fell in love with the students I served in southern California. They were outstanding young men and women indeed. I am still praying that our Good Lord blesses the things we discussed this weekend and the experiences that we all had. I think we all felt that He met us up on top of that mountain. Thank you all again for your prayers for me and my family while we were separated. I'm looking forward to catching up in the next few days.

More Concert Pictures

Here are some more pictures of all the dancers involved and our dear friend Larry Dalton, a concert Steinway pianist, who graced us with his talented hands. Thank you to all.

Coming down

It's so good to still hear the excitement and enthusiasm in Liza's voice even today. I'm still in California (speak twice more today, once tomorrow, then home). I called her briefly to check in and she sounds like the old Liza.

We have talked a little about the personal repercussions of the benefit concert. She said that her passion for dance and teaching has been renewed and she has a new drive to get back to the studio and back on the floor. That is great, but it will still be a while and she knows that. I'm so very happy that she has been given a new motivation because of the love our church and friends. I think that's part of the reason for the change I can hear over the phone.

She even feels like she was physically healed a little during the concert, especially when she got up on stage and spoke. She can remember saying a simple thank you to God, the Great Physician, and Restorer, and a thank you to all that attended and have helped our family. She is adamant about NOT ever speaking in public, so that moment was a very big deal for her. In was in that brief encounter that she began to feel better physically. Although she was quite worn out later that night and is still, she felt God directly answer the many prayers that are being offered on behalf of her healing. God is definitely good. And for continually asking Him to show His great goodness to my wife, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. Coming down off the "high" of the concert will be a new beginning of determined progress and strength for Liza. I can't wait to get home and hold her again.

Pictures Say it All...

I talked to Liza this morning. She said that she didn't sleep well last night because she was still so excited. What sweet medicine that was for a husband who is away from his bride.

Here are some amazing images from the benefit concert Friday night. They are of Liza's own company, her hip-hop students, Dance Ad Deum, some students from Humble, and her friend Jenna Vance.

Beautiful Night

Well, I'm writing from a cabin at the top of a mountain in Crest Line, California, at Thousand Pines Christian Camp. It's 43 degrees outside right now and getting colder. I'm here to speak at a high school student retreat, a trip on which Liza was originally scheduled to come. Of course, plans changed quickly in the last few months.

I spoke to Liza on the phone a couple of hours ago and she said immediately, "tonight was awesome." Many more people attended the benefit concert than any of us expected. What a blessing! She also said that her company was amazing. "My girls were more beautiful than ever. They just worshipped." It made my heart glad to hear the excitement in her voice, even though she said that her body was convulsing. She got home after 10:00 and she left the house a little after 6:00. Four hours is a long time for her relatively fragile state. She was in a large amount of pain and said she felt like she had Parkinson's disease because her body was literally shaking all over. Thus, our conversation was not long-winded, but the enthusiasm and encouragement in her voice was unmistakable. I'm so very thankful and glad that Liza could see how many people love her and are touched by her life and ministry. I'm sure her special choreography was moving and inspiring to all that were there. I'm looking forward to adding some pictures and possibly some video in upcoming posts.

Thank you all for your prayers for tonight, and many of you for coming and supporting my wife and family. Below is the letter that my good friend Tray read in my stead.

Dear Friends,

I’m afraid my feeble vocabulary fails me as I try to convey the amount of gratitude Liza and I, and our whole family, have for you all. Your generous support, loving prayers, and presence here tonight are a beautiful testimony to the love of Jesus Christ expressed in his body, the church. We have been overwhelmed with humility as our peers, our church family, and even our students have served us in this difficult time. For this reason, amidst all of the pain and suffering that Liza’s endured, we have come to a place of thankfulness even for the trial itself, because we have been able to experience the deep love that you all have shown. Liza still has a hard road ahead of her as she struggles through physical therapy and labors to return to her teaching position and to the dance floor. For that continued trial we again covet your prayers.

More than anything, I sincerely wish that I could be here tonight and personally verbalize my appreciation and love to your all. I want to shake your hands and hug your necks and show you how much you’ve meant to us. But this feeble letter will have to suffice for this occasion. Again, thank you. May God richly bless you for all you’ve done and are doing for my lovely wife and family. May you be deeply touched by what you experience tonight and above all, may our Good God be blessed.

With all love,
Scot Pollok and family.

May God be Blessed

Liza and I just took little Izzy to the ENT for a check up on her ears and then went to get Liza a new shirt for tonight. She's very excited. (By the way, Izzy got two shots in her "bum bum" because the first round of antibiotics did not work. We'll go back for another check up in ten days. If she gets another infection after this one, then we'll likely schedule another tube surgery.)

As I (Scot) will unfortunately not be able to be at the concert tonight, I hope you all are blessed by what you experience. Again, Liza's heart is for the night to be all about worship of our Great God, because "our only hope is in Him who is Infinitely Good." I will still try to update this blog over the weekend with some pictures if possible. Many blessings to you all and a heartfelt thanks for all who were involved in making tonight possible.

Giving Thanks

Liza actually went up to the Methodist Church and watched concert rehearsal for over 2 hours! Well, watched and taught, that is. She just couldn't help herself. But this evening, she was "done," in her words. That little outing took everything she had. She was extremely encouraged, though, by her girls' level of dancing and is very excited about tomorrow night. Our pianist friend, Larry Dalton, arrives just after lunch and the dancers from all the companies will be arriving in the early afternoon for more rehearsal. Our very own Tray Morgan will host the evening. Liza and I just prayed together and she mentioned that she "doesn't care at all about the fund raising, I just want people to be touched and for God to be glorified." I thought that she said it very well.

My (Scot) parents came in tonight to be with the kids over the weekend and come to the concert tomorrow. Andrew and Izzy were thrilled to see them. Here's a couple pictures of them at breakfast (notice the balanced and nutritious meal that their father made). They both went to "school" again today and are loving it. It's been my favorite time of the week to sit and debrief the day's happenings with them individually. I just keep falling in love with these two over and over again.

As I reflect on all that's gone on in the last few weeks I'm really overwhelmed with thanksgiving. I realize that I've given almost one single answer to all who have asked about Liza: "slow progress." But in reality, we are so very thankful for a innumerable number of things that God has done. And so before all the festivities of tomorrow begin I wanted to encourage you all to give thanks to God for what He's done in Liza, how He has spared her and used her to touch lives during this trial. One of our life goals is to be thankful people. When it comes to this surgery and recovery and all the words and visitors to this blog, we are extremely grateful. Thank you all. Thank you Jesus.

Physical Therapy #1

Liza just told me, from the pitch blackness of our bedroom, that she was "overall, encouraged today." A doctor friend came over and shared her expertise with Liza as they gently worked on the range of motion in her neck. They took it easy, but it still affected Liza, which I guess is understandable. She also shared with Liza the simple fact that her neck, spinal cord and brain have been through a huge trauma. It takes a while to come back from something like that because the spinal fluid, the spinal cord, and all the nerves that come out of the cord are getting acquainted with more space and an increased ability to function properly. So even though right now Liza's "whole body is throbbing" and she has pins and needles in her hands and feet, she is still encouraged. We are still hoping that all of these symptoms are directly related to the healing process, which will take months. Please continue to pray that Liza will be able to sleep deeply, solidly, peacefully, and undisturbed by noises, worries, pain, numbness, etc., so that she can be as involved and blessed by the next few days as possible. Thank you all.

New pain

Since our good report on Monday, I think Liza has attempted to do too much. She immediately started picking up the kids, which they LOVED, but she has paid the price lately. She has also developed some nerve pain and tingling in her extremities, which is very discouraging for her. She has not had anything like this since the surgery, until yesterday that is. So she has been struggling with that reality for about 24 hours now. It kept her up last night - not the pain, but the thought that the surgery did not relieve the symptoms that she struggled with before. I, for one, and Dr. C, for another, are not convinced that these new sensations have any connection or relevance to the success of the surgery. It is still too early to tell; the nerves are still trying to heal.

This morning was also difficult. I had to go into work again and Liza was with the two kids by herself for the first time. She prepared well and was able to occupy them and have a lot of fun by not doing too much physically. They both sat on her lap and they read books for over a hour. Then Liza's mum took Izzy to run some errands and Liza got some one-on-one time with her little man. They played trains of course, and I think Andrew ate it up. But she overdid it again and is now trying to rest. We were both awakened at 6 AM this morning as cement truck after cement truck barrelled up on street and poured a new slab directly across from us. Yeah, I don't even know what to say about that. Who wants any kind of slab at 6 AM, honestly. I wouldn't take a slab of chocolate at that hour. And I really love chocolate.

We are also busily preparing for the benefit concert this Friday night. It will be at The Woodlands United Methodist Church at 7:30 in the main sanctuary. I want you all to know that it is entirely a worship concert. We have several special guests that have graciously agreed to come and be a part, including another professional dance company and a concert pianist, but the night really highlights Liza's worshipful and masterful choreography with her own professional ballet and modern company, Ballet Excelsior of Houston. You can purchase tickets at the church and there will also be other ways to interact and help out. Every dime of the proceeds will go directly towards Liza's medical bills, so let me, as Liza's husband, be the very first to thank you all for your hard work toward this event and your presence there. There have already been over 400 tickets sold by our estimation and we are hoping for more. Come and enjoy professional level artists worship our God. It's going to be an amazing night. Again, thank you for your prayers, comments here on the blog and well wishes. Liza checks this multiple times a day and is extremely encouraged by all that you are doing for us. Blessings.

Now that you're here

I can easily say that I never imagined that a simple website like this would bring so many people together. I was still for a moment one day before the surgery and thought that a site like this may be a good way of informing our small circle of friends and family of current news on Liza. I really never thought it would be anything more than that. I think I was wrong. From the comments on the site and personal interactions I've had with readers, it would seem there are maybe hundreds of people reading this little thing - that kinda makes my hands tremble.

So I thought since you're here and reading, that I'd share something that doesn't have to do directly with Liza's brain surgery. If you have found yourself on this site for any reason, let me say first that I'm glad you're here. If you happen to peruse the posts written throughout this volatile time in our lives, I pray and hope that you see a peace and trust in our feeble words. This peace in the midst of incredible uncertainty is not a kind of sheepish denial or nihilist "whatever" that attaches itself to those who don't care. Neither is it an ignorant or simply optimistic view of things. From the beginning, and with her own mouth, Liza said that if she didn't make it through this that she was okay with that. But she could make that statement, and I could heartily agree with her, even as her husband, only because of our faith in Jesus Christ the Son of God. It is only His life, death, resurrection and real presence with us that makes this kind of peace possible. Whether this breath is our last or not, we can take it knowing full well that it is but a shadow of what lies waiting for us as believers in Jesus in the presence of God the Father. This relationship and hope is the glue that holds all the words of this site together. Without that, at best this would be a site filled with whimpering, self-pity, and pitiful attempts at recognition. But I hope you can see that it has become much more than that. Through the faith, courage, and perseverance of my lovely bride (who actually has suffered but a fraction of what many thousand others suffer) the witness and history of this site has become something beautiful.

Now for what it's worth, I'm really a geek. I'm a full time graduate student in the field of Christian theology. I've read all the books required of me thus far (which are many), I've studied the original biblical languages for years (and fallen in love with them), I've read the Biblical authors themselves and countless others who have written about them, I've read the other world philosophies, I've studied cultures, I've traveled widely for a guy my age, and I've taught and meditated on these things for a long time. All that to say, for whatever it's worth,...I believe it. I wholeheartedly buy into the gospel of Jesus Christ expressed in both the Old and New Testament. I have based my entire life on it.

But don't just take a geek's word for it. Believe it yourself. Communicate with the God of the universe right now - He is near to you. The truth is, you've got a problem that only He can solve. The failures that you've committed, no matter how big, small, numerous or few, will forbid you any option other than separation from God. And that is a problem that only God can solve, because it is a God-sized problem. And since it is a problem only you should solve, since you are the one who has failed (and every other human that has ever lived), God became a human to solve the problem. Jesus of Nazareth's historical death and resurrection from the grave secured for all time access to God the Father for all who put their trust in Him, His life and His work. That's good news if there ever was good news. So if you're here at this site wondering why you've even read this far, maybe it is time for you to think seriously about yourself, about God, and about the differences between the two. Only God can rescue you from yourself, and the best news of all is...He is willing. He is love. He expresses that love just like you and I breathe in and out. Let Him love you to the fullest by rescuing you from yourself. All it takes is faith in Jesus. Thanks for reading.

All Good News, except...

We heard almost entirely good news today. As far as Liza is concerned, Dr. Comair and Shirley (pictured with their beautiful patient) were very encouraging and impressed with her progress. Here are some details: She has been ordered to start physical therapy, which is the first mention we've ever heard of PT in this whole process. That means she has to begin forcing her neck to regain its range of motion. That will prove painful, so they gave her a different muscle relaxant that should help. She also had a worrisome nodule or lump on the left side of her neck. It was painful and sore to the touch. Dr. C said that it was a lymph node that usually swells up after surgery, nothing to worry about. He also said that future natural childbirth is still an option and should be much easier because the "problem has been fixed." The pain and tightness, mixed with frequent spasms, in her left side is the only part of the equation that Dr. C is not completely sure about. He feels it could be just a result of her "beautiful muscles" trying to heal themselves and the nerves beginning to work properly, but he isn't sure. He went into more detail about the difficulty he had with Liza's very muscular neck. He had to cut quite deeply through her "beautiful muscles" and then suture them on the midline. This causes the muscles to revolt and get all fired up, causing a lot of stiffness, soreness, and some spasms as they try to heal and return to normal working order.

Another good bit of news is...Liza can now pick up the kids! She did it immediately when she got home. They were both very happy and her new ability did not go unnoticed. But she overdid it a bit and is now paying the price, sitting on the chair in the living room as her entire body pulses and throbs.

The only bit of bad news we had today concerns our kids. We returned from Liza's appointment only to snatch our kids from our lovely babysitter Emily to rush to their doctor's appointment. As it turns out Andrew has developed congestion in his lungs and has been put on antibiotics and breathing treatments. We did one tonight already. And, little Izzy has yet another ear infection. In January of this year she had tubes put in after 13 consecutive infections. Currently, her right ear tube is in the process of falling out and she has developed an infection already. Bad news. So she is on antibiotics too and we are going to schedule a follow-up appointment with her ENT and revisit our options so that we don't go through Izzy's little "hell" all over again.

Overall it was a positive day with positive news for Liza. The kids are doing well but we feel a little set back. I'd better go now, I can hear Izzy whining for "mommy" in the next room. I added a picture of her getting into mommy's makeup today before our appointment. What fun little girls are. Thanks for your prayers and thoughts.

Rough Day

In her own words, Liza "did too much today." She did sleep well last night and got another 3+ hours while we were at church (which was interesting since we were unaware of the time change). But after that, she spent a little too much time outside with the kids. Two new houses are going up just across the street and it's simply too tempting for our children. So she walked across the street to just keep an eye on them. That proved to be a little too much. Since then she's been just trying to be still. Her head and neck have been aching and she's very tired. We spent our anniversary dinner with Chinese take-out at our dining room table with kids on either side of us. It wasn't as magical as we'd hoped. The spicy chicken was very good though.

Tomorrow we go to see Dr. Comair and Shirley again for another post-op visit. We are hoping to get the go-ahead on picking up the children and that the graft/seal in the neck incision is good-to-go. We are also hoping for further and more general confidence and reassuring that everything Liza is experiencing is normal or better than normal. Every time we come away from these visits we are encouraged, so we're praying for more of the same. The ride to and from is also pretty rough for Liz, please keep that in your prayers if you think about it. We will be leaving about noon. I'll post again when we get back. Much love till then.

The Day I Married Liza

Seven years ago today was our wedding day. I actually remember it quite vividly. It rained the day before and the morning of and the parking lot of the church was partially under water. I remember the doors opening in the back of the church and the vision that Liza was on that day. I honestly think I almost had cardiac arrest. With the 1000 plus people in attendance, it was an incredible day being surrounded by our dear friends and family. The seven years since that day have flown by, but have been adventurous. We have ministered the gospel together, traveled a bit of the world (the pic is from a trip to Italy many years ago), we've almost lost two brothers, adopted a son, gave birth to a daughter, and began school again. We still laugh and giggle and wrestle like we did when we were dating (although a bit less) except our relationship has grown much deeper and more sure. My wife is a remarkable individual, which many of you reading this know first hand. If you don't, I hope you have the opportunity to get to know her. She is the best mother and wife I know and is also one of the most talented artists I've ever seen. My love, admiration, trust, and devotion to Liza is constantly growing, sometimes in unexpected situations...like brain surgery. Of course we've also gone through that together. Actually we still are, I guess. But I am still looking forward to many more adventures with my gorgeous partner.

Liza will stay home again today from church while I take the kids. That is getting very old so we are looking forward to her joining us again as soon as she feels able. She was nervous about being able to sleep tonight because she slept so poorly last night. We'll see how that goes. Izzy just woke up crying (2:00 AM) and I rocked her back to sleep. I don't often get to do that so I quite like holding my little girl and snuggling. I just wish she'd pick a better hour.

Izzy's Birthday

Even though Liza is not feeling too hot today because she slept very poorly last night, we threw a small family birthday party for our youngest daughter, Isabel Grace Ingrid. Of course we had to throw a party for our widdle princess! All the family pitched in and got her really one present - her own little kitchen and nursery, house...thing. You can see the pictures. It came with a fabric tent, a stove, sink, changing table and other things like a cheap set of pots and pans. She loves to change diapers and cook and feed babies so we were very excited to give it to her. Liza and I were up to almost midnight putting it all together. That may explain the bad night of sleep. Anyway, Jacob and Amy, Dylan and Zander, Sonja and us four Polloks were here for a butterfly cake and Pizza Hut (what a combination!). She had such a wonderful time. Much more excited about visitors and especially baby Zander, she jumped and smiled and sang and it was a joy to watch. Now we'll attempt a nap time when both kids are hopped up on cake icing so that Liza can get some better sleep. Enjoy the pictures (especially you, Janine).

Always good to sleep in

This morning was a good morning. I didn't have to work, the kids didn't have preschool, and we had no visitors - so it was just a normal Pollok morning. I got up after a good night's sleep and made breakfast and then the kids and I went outside and ran some errands (in our pajamas) while mommy got some more sleep. The more sleep Liza gets, the better she feels. So far, then, today has been a great day. We're about to attempt nap time, so I'm sure the "great" is about to be replaced with something a little less glamorous.

Sympathy pains...?

I doubt it, but I've had the worst headache and neckache now for about 24 hours. Liza said tonight that her headache was possibly the worst since the surgery. Sheeesh. We're going to bed. We're still hopeful and trusting, but we're going to bed.

First Outing Fallout

Liza and I got back from the studio a little after 4 and before 5 she was in bed, wasted. Just a little half hour trip took everything she had. While it was great for her to see and hug some of her older girls, it was also discouraging, as she didn't expect to be so weak. She slept for two solid hours and then tried to coddle the sick kids the rest of the night. They both are struggling to understand why mommy can't pick them up. It's heartbreaking for Liza to have to deny them. Oh - nobody goes out to eat on Halloween night apparently.

Slight Fever and First Outing

Probably because both kids are dealing with illnesses, Liza came down with a slight fever yesterday afternoon. At least we are praying that there is no other cause for it. There is no indication that it has anything to do with her surgery. It is still worrisome though, so please pray that her fever, which she still has a bit of, will go away. She actually had two very bad "spells" yesterday where she almost blacked out. She got up from bed two different times and within a few seconds caught herself on the wall as "everything went black." In our consultations, we think it was just a side effect of fatigue and the slight fever. We are keeping a close eye on it though.

Andrew and Izzy are still trying to get over their respective crud, although they may be dealing with the same thing now because they "share" so many of their things. We are also gearing up for Izzy's second birthday party on Saturday. We planned small for Liza's sake but the whole family pitched in for something very cool for our little girl. Look for pictures this weekend.

I also just dropped Liza off at the studio! Can you believe it? She did not go to teach, of course, she just wanted to see a few of her students and watch rehearsal for about a half hour. I am about to go fetch her again, though I am worried that it will backfire on her tonight. She hasn't been out except to go to the doctor visits since the surgery. I'm glad she felt up to it but am worried that she'll feel poorly afterwards. I'm on break from a double at work right now, so I'll go back for Halloween night at a fine dining restaurant - can there be anything more fun than that?

The Latest Fashion

As you can see Liza's hair is growing back quickly but not quick enough for her. The incision site looks really good to me, but still gives her the willies. She slept in today till almost noon which really set her up for a better-than-average day. She actually said that she only had a couple of small headaches today and that they didn't last long. The nerve pain was all she struggled with. Now that Izzy's getting over her sickness, Andrew has a virus. I took him to see our wonderful doctor this afternoon and found out he has Adeno virus. His teacher and other classmates at preschool have also had it. He's not tremendously bad, we can just tell that he's not his normal cheerful self. He's got irritated eyes, congestion, cough, light fever, and the squirts. Good times.

I (Scot) have been scheduled to work a double tomorrow and Wednesday, so please pray that we have adequate help with the kiddos. Here they are having a picnic on the hood of my car. We are in new territory here, since I've been off from work for almost three full weeks now. I started back this weekend and it went very smoothly with regular sitters and Liza's mum. For the next two days, I'm sure we will be blessed with the same loving help we've been receiving. Again, many blessings to you all and thank you for your service, thoughts, comments, and prayers.