David Russell Mosley

Ordinary Time

St Edward’s Day

13 October 2014

On the Edge of Elfland

Beeston, Nottinghamshire

Dear Friends and Family,

I just wanted to give everyone a quick life update. As I mentioned a while back, my second-son (born a whole minute later than his elder brother) was diagnosed with cancer. Well, I am pleased to announce that the tumour, what we have been calling the dragon, is gone. I honestly don’t know all the details yet. We only recently found out and have not seen our new oncologist since she called to tell us the news. You can read more about that here.

We also found out today that Edwyn can have his line removed. When Edwyn was diagnosed with neuroblastoma he had a line put in so they could administer his drugs, draw his blood, and more without having to stick him full of needles. Well, today we were told that it can not only come out, but it can come out on Wednesday! We are very grateful for all the prayers and support we have received during Edwyn’s battle with the dragon.

In other news, my wife, children, and I have returned to the States. We made this decision when we found out we were having twins and it became more important, though delayed slightly, when Edwyn was diagnosed. We wanted to be around family. We wanted to make sure our families got to see them and spend time with them. So, we’ve moved in with my grandmother-in-law and are trying to sort out new lives in the USA. We miss England terribly, but we’re glad to be able to see friends and family we haven’t seen in three years.

Those who know that I’m working on my PhD in theology at the University of Nottingham may be wondering what impact this has had on it. Well, I was supposed to finish and submit my thesis by the end of last month. That, obviously, was not going to be possible. Thankfully, through the dedicated ministrations of one of my supervisors, and the head of the Theology Department, I have an extension until the end of May. I’m hoping to be done by the end of March, but am having a hard time getting back into the groove of things, especially without a home office or university office to work at. Plus, having twins means I’ve been needed at home a bit more, especially with the cancer stuff. However, I am slowly, but surely, getting back to work.

In the mean time, to help me get back into a theological and writing (and editing) frame of mind, I’m going to be trying harder to blog more, so look out for more posts from me. I don’t know about you (those of you who write) but I find that writing anything helps me get in the mood for writing, making working on my thesis even easier.

I’ve also begun looking for jobs to apply to for next year. In academia, at least in the States, most jobs are posted in the Fall the year before their start date. I’ve got some leads, but nothing definite yet. Prayers (or advice, or jobs) are very welcome.

In summary, the Mosleys are doing very well (even my wife has gotten back to blogging), I’m beginning to work again, and most importantly, the dragon is dead.

Sincerely yours,

David Russell Mosley