Perky Tidbits

Short and sweet.

2010-08-14T15:17:00.000-07:00

This will be short and sweet...I am at my sisters in Berrien Springs, and haven't been able to post anything on facebook from her computer, so I thought I'd try this. Here's a picture of some of my kids and grandkids at a baby shower for Tandita.

2009-12-09T19:55:00.000-08:00

Maria and the baby are both home now and progressing well. Maria is doing rehab as an outpatient. Although she still relies on her walker, she is able to walk without it indoors. The baby now weighs 6 lb. 13 oz. and has learned how to use her lungs if the bottle doesn't come in a timely fashion!
Maria continues to get stronger and is gaining more and more use of her limbs. Her progress has been remarkable even though she still has a long ways to go. When God blesses, remarkable things do happen. I receive an e-mail prayer chain daily, and as I have recently read of families who have lost young loved ones, it gives me pause to consider why some are given the blessing of life while others just as needy are not. I can only hope and pray that Maria and all my family realize what a blessing we have just received as well as how to bring glory to God through it.

Giving Thanks

2009-11-26T18:45:00.000-08:00

Today was a real thanksgiving day. Maria is tube free. (no NG tube and no feeding tube) No more breathing treatments since last night. Did well today, tho tired. Hopefully all that is behind her, and if she continues her pattern of improvement through the weekend, she could be moved to rehab by Monday. They got her in the best rehab facility here RHI. It's one that the NASCAR injured drivers go when they need it. I'm not sure how much her insurance will pay for, so it's a good thing she's making rapid improvement. We all thank you for the prayers and support you've given all of us through this ordeal. Maria still has a lot of work to do, and of course we're hoping the turns are all upward, so your continued prayer for her will be appreciated. However, my updates will come less frequently. I hope all of you also had a thankful day and that God blesses you abundantly.

Maria gets some food to eat.

2009-11-25T06:29:00.001-08:00

Maria ate clear liquids yesterday and is on full liquids today. She's eating cream of wheat right now. PT came earlier, and she's always excited to see them. Usually they come a little later, but the therapist came to see her first this morning. When they let her sit up on the edge of the bed, her heart rate went up, and she felt dizzy, so they decided to let her rest and try again later. She hadn't had her meds yet, and the nurse thought she'd do better after the meds kick in. They've started her on lopressor because Monday night she started periodically having an elevated heart rate, and her blood pressure (though better than before) is a little higher than desired. Overall she is doing amazing and is very happy to be able to eat. Yesterday she ate her applesauce and jello herself (fed herself). Also yesterday, her doctor came in and told her that there was only one reason why she was alive and then pointed up. We have had many, many hospital personnel telling us that they were praying for her. Last year, Indiana was the state that put the motto "In God We Trust" as the regular license plate...not the vanity plate. I don't think they are doing it now, but did last year.

Za'Mya had another "event" yesterday during feeding, and this time they had to rub her chest to get her to come out of it. So they won't be dismissing her right away. At first they were going to since she brought herself out, but now it'll be next week before she gets out. We're not happy for the reason, but it means that Maria will be able to see her each day and makes our responsibilities less at "home". Still don't know where we're going after Dec. 1, but hope we get it figured out before Don leaves to go home.

Vanessa, Tandita and TJ are on the way here for the day and should be here soon.

One month

2009-11-23T08:42:00.000-08:00

Today is the one month mark of Za'Mya's birth. She is not coming home today, cause she had an episode in which her heart rate and oxygen levels dropped suddenly. It corrected itself, but Saturday night her oxygen levels dropped again and corrected itself. Because of these two events, they will keep her up to 5 and probably 7 days longer, which is helpful for both Maria and us. They haven't done the ultrasound on Maria yet for gall bladder but are supposed to do that today. I left at 4:00 a.m. and she slept about 4 hours. I think she slept more after I left but not sure how much cause I haven't talked to Esther yet. We had an undesirable nurse the last two nights, and we are telling the charge nurse that we don't want her to care for Maria again.

Somehow I misunderstood our accommodations status, and we have to be out of the house where we are by Dec 1, not Jan 1, so we are trying to figure out where to go. May check with the academy to see if we can stay in their annex dorm, but we won't be able to take Maria there because of the steps. At least it does have laundry facilites, and Stan Detweiler lives there, so we might be able to wrangle some kitchen priviledges. We'll see. God has worked things out for us so far, so I know all that will be resolved, too.

Lookin Better

2009-11-22T17:53:00.000-08:00

Maria had a great day today, nausea this morning, and a little tonight. She called us on the phone this morning, and we could hear her speak clearly. She looks really good tonight, but is tired from the lack of sleep and having company today, I suppose. She's getting ready to sleep now, so hope she has a really good sleep tonight. Still wanting someone to stay with her overnight, and it's probably good until we know she's not throwing up so suddenly.
The charge nurse rigged up a way for her to be able to push the call button with the back of her hand. (Her staff is calling her McGyver.) Maria is doing her exercises and progressing. Tonight she took the back of her hand and lifted it to her face to try to push the hair back out of her face.
We took boxes of chocolates to the MICU staff...two marked "Day Shift" and two marked "Night Shift". Of course had a thank you note for their incredible care giving that we all signed. It was received with big smiles, and one of the techs came over to Maria's room to say thanks since he didn't see us bring it in.

Friday night

2009-11-20T20:43:00.000-08:00

The hard part of watching Maria go up and down physically is mostly past. Now we are going through the emotions of Maria watching Maria go through the ups and downs of recovery. Still on a feeding tube, but tonight they are stopping the feeding and clamping the NG tube because she is having bleeding, and they want to give her the stuff you take to reduce the risk of ulcers. I'm hoping that it will at leaast stop the vomiting that comes now and then and hope she can get some rest. Please pray for her, cause she is still having bad dreamss/thoughts and not as many hallucinations nor as dramatic ones, but still harassed now and then. Right now she keeps twitching, and I just keep praying for her and for the presence of Jesus, etc. She has been afraid to go to sleep, and is really dozing for the first time in two days, but it is a very restless dozing.
Her voice is getting stronger, breathing much less rapid...reasonable. She got to go down to see the baby again, mostly cause Esther kept after the nurse to do it as she was promised. She had PT today and sat on the edge of the bed again, but doesn't remember doing it.

The baby is being dismissed Monday,so I'm concerned about her mental state about not getting to go down to the nursery to see her. Just keep on praying, please. And thanks for your support as well.

Tonight

2009-11-19T23:17:00.000-08:00

Don got here about 1:00 + and Maria got to see him. He and Esther went back to the house to sleep what's left of the night and will be back in the morning to relieve me. I'll probably stay home most of the day. Cornel will be here about 3:00 Sabbath afternoon, so we'll let him take over the rest of that day. He's supposed to be bringing a car seat, cause the baby is expected to be dismissed to me sometime next week. Good to have some extra hands at least for a few days. After that, Noylen and I will have to alternate and hopefully Maria will be at least a little more mentally clear and physically stronger.

The neurologist thinks her challenges are muscular rather than neurological, but they are checking and watching things to be sure. She has reflexes, albeit slight. Along with it, there has been some not so lucid ramblings that they tell me is expected. This morning she asked me what I did with her hotdog. I asked her what hotdog, and she said the one that she was eating...where did I put it... later she told Esther she'd better catch her brother before he fell.
She was also "afraid to go to sleep" because they were trying to drug her. I found out later that she apparently overheard the patient next door "arguing" with the staff last night and caught parts of it and thought it was about her. Later, we heard the guy yell out, so I think that was probably it. She finally going to sleep now, and I hope she sleeps well, cause she has not had much sleep for 3 days.

To make a long story short, I felt so bad as well as a real dud the other day when I realized that when she first came awake, we were telling her how well the baby was doing, etc. then really TODAY realized that she was trying to ask how Gabriel (her 2 year old) was. Not that we hadn't told her, but we were focusing on the baby and she was all the time worried about Gabriel and didn't really comprehend that she had the baby. What a dufus I felt when I realized it. Anyhow we called Gabriel's dad and let her "talk" with him. He calmed her anxiety and she seemed ok then.

Maria and Cornel have some things on layaway (I assume at Walmart). The special services nursery where the baby is has told us they have a few items of clothing they are going to give us to help us get started with that. Cornel is working 3:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. 6 days a week. It's hard for Maria cause she wants to see him, but when we tell her his schedule and occasionally are able to get him on the phone, then she seems to understand and accept that he can't come until the weekend. They live nearly 3 hours away.

They tell us to expect 3 days of rehab for every day Maria was in ICU. That means 3 months! The plan now is to get her started on rehab here and hope she will get strong enough to move her out to California if we can work it out to take Gabriel with us. I don't think she'd go without him. Of course the baby will go, too. All this is up in the air of course until we see how things go. Bar any unforseen setbacks, they expect a full recovery. Brain scan was good and everything is working except her arms and legs plus the weakness.

2009-11-19T12:14:00.001-08:00

When we got here this morning, they were planning to move Maria to a bed that converts to a wheel chair. The RT came in to give her breathing treatment, and she asked maria if there was anything she wanted, and Maria replied, "I want to hold my baby." Now did that choke you up? If it didn't, you are in the minority. Anyhow, yes, we have pictures. They were able to situate the baby on her and she got to hold her for a while. I'm sure they'll take her down every day, but she tires out and we didn't stay real long this time. I asked her if she was tired and she nodded, and I asked her if she was ready to go back and she was. Her "voice" is a bit stronger today, too.
They are calling in a neurologist to check her out in regard to getting her arms and legs working again. She's off of all oxygen, though it is available if needed. She is not as unresponsive, sad, or depressed whatever you care to call it as she was. And she's anxious for her dad to get here. He'll be in about midnight and will be her for a week. Hope we have some vacation time left for the family reunion next summer!!

11/18

2009-11-18T18:37:00.000-08:00

Maria is looking better now and more awake since they moved her here from ICU. She's been depressed as would be expected when suddenly waking up and finding that you can't move your arms or legs, etc. She still has the NG tube in her nose as well as the feeding tube, and of course IV's, but physical therapy came shortly after noon and this encouraged her greatly. She asked to repeat the exercises, and Esther (she arrived this evening) and I helped her do them. She still has a few things that are a concern, but the medical teams are working to resolve. As she is understanding that this is a temporary thing, she has got back of her determination, and that's good to see along with a few smiles and a sprinkling of tears, too. The PT asked her if she wanted to try to sit up on the bed, and she nodded, so she and the nurse assisted her and she sat there with assistance for a couple of minutes. I think this encouraged her the most...hope, who can live without it?

Early Tuesday morning

2009-11-17T05:43:00.001-08:00

Cornel ended up staying all night and called in this morning to take off work today. I'm so glad he did. Maria was "emptying out" the tanks all night. (threw up twice more)The docs do rounds really early, and the doc said she's doing fine and they think she will be moved out of ICU either today or tomorrow. She has a little cough, but he said that's because she's gaining her strength back. (they want her to cough I think to clear the secretions) He's going to have a chest X-ray, tho, just to be sure. As I said before, she's quite weak. Noylen and I will be going in later this morning and try to post another update this afternoon or evening.

Monday night, 11/16

2009-11-16T19:32:00.000-08:00

This afternoon the nurse was doing some things for Maria, and she started coughing. Sometimes she brings up stuff, so we suction. Had the "hose" in my hand when all of a sudden she started throwing up everything, of course all liquid. Fortunately it was a gusher and we were able to position her forwardly...and the nurse took the suction tube and I guess everything went in the right direction, cause tonight she is resting well. Still has rapid respiration, but her blood gasses are great, and they inserted an NG tube into the stomach, so it is empty and they are giving her something for nausea every two hours. The nurse tonight is Krista which makes me happy. She was the one who was there when Maria arrived and was her nurse then. I trust her. Cornel came just after Maria threw up and is still there, but probably will be going home soon cause he has to work tomorrow. I feel comfortable not going back tonight, she seems to be doing ok and nods an ok when you have to leave. Hard to do, but Noylen and I are trying to be sure we stay healthy, too. We stayed overnight last night, but did get sleep at the hospital nursery where the baby is. They have a special room for parents, but we can't do that very often. So goodnight, will keep you posted tomorrow, I guess.

Good News

2009-11-15T14:53:00.000-08:00

So much has happened that I'm not sure where I left off. First of all, the "team" came in to decide the next step. The boss of the team after some discussing said, "She's at the point that we need to remove the tube and she will either fly or we will have to do a trach." They asked her if she was ready to have the tube out and she shook her head yes. They did a test by turning everything off to see if she could sustain, and she did. So they decided to do it, but everyone had to get everything they needed to be ready for whatever needed to be done. So in less than 10 minutes everything was ready, and they removed the tube, put a "mask" on her, and she breathed in and you could see the relief in her immediately. They have her with just the "noseplugs" now and it's going well. She's very weak but still is not sleeping as of 2 hours ago. Shortly after she was off the tube, Cornel's brother walked in, and she smiled a big smile at him. She has communicated with nods, pursed her lips to make kisses at us, and mouthed a few I love yous. She was told not to talk for 3 hours but even then she could only whisper very softly. She has a bed sore on her back side that is bothering her. Got it early on, and they've been tending to it and watching it. She's been a fighter throughout, but the really hard part is starting for her now. Please don't stop praying for her just because she's made this huge hurdle. Praise God for his added blessings.

2009-11-15T02:21:00.000-08:00

Sorry I've skipped some stuff, but the bottom line now is trying to get Maria off the sedation. She acts like what I picture a person going through withdrawal...do they do that coming off sedation? They want to remove the breathing tube but can't unless she can be calm enough for them to do a breathing trial to be sure she can do it on her own. Have tried twice already.

1:33 a.m. text message from Esther

2009-11-08T23:00:00.000-08:00

I just got the following text message from Esther, who calls in to the hospital now and then to check on Maria's progress...
"Liver scan ok, numbers improving." 1:33 a.m. Monday, Nov 9
From: Esther Peariso
Praise God.

Sunday evening

2009-11-08T14:40:00.000-08:00

Today Maria's liver scores were not very good. They have had OB up here to see if anything involving her pregnancy and/or delivering the baby was in any way involved. They came and found nothing in that arena. They have done an ultrasound of her liver, and we are still waiting those results. This morning they had her up to 70% oxygen, but it is down to 60% now with high 97-98% scores. We were told that they will probably be going down to 55%, but that hasn't happened yet. As you know, the liver is a biggie...but as the Harp and Ponder song goes, "we've come this far by faith, leaning on the Lord; trusting in His holy Word... The prayers of His people are always heard. I have been examining my life for any iniquity that would in any way interfere. I hope others are doing the same. And no, I'm not talking about works....

Friday, November something

2009-11-06T13:49:00.000-08:00

A bit of improvement to report today. Sorry for not posting the last few days, with nothing new to say and because I just wasn't online much at all.
This morning when I came in, they had gone down from 55% to 50% oxygen and her levels were holding good. In fact when the Respiratory therapist suctioned her, she went up to 100% briefly but has remained in the high end of the 90's.
We had an anointing service a bit ago. Very touching and uplifting. The pastor who visited Maria in the hospital in Marion just before they transferred her here (Joe Quiles) and Larry McConnell who is associated with the Cicero church presided. Pastor Quiles told us that at that time he asked Maria if she wanted to give her heart to the Lord, and she replied "I did that a long time ago, but yes." And he asked if she wanted to ask Him to forgive her sins to which she also replied "yes." And he prayed with her then. Maria is sedated more than before, but she did open her eyes briefly as the pastor was talking to her. She is in God's hands. What better place to be.
After the anointing, I noticed some doctors outside her door and went to find out what they had to say since I hadn't seen a doctor today. They were from infectious disease, and they said that her fever had come down some today and that the oxygen levels were good as I said above. They said she's not out of the woods yet, but it was a positive day.
So keep those prayers coming. And thanks to those of you who have sent cards to Maria. They're on the window sill, waiting for her to be well enough to read them.
The baby is doing fantastic, and now weighs 4# 5.6 oz. We have great pics on the phone, but you'll have to wait until we can transfer them to the computer...Noylen will have them up way before I do.
Praise God from whom ALL blessings flow...He is sustaining us every day.

2009-11-03T18:11:00.000-08:00

No positive changes today. Maria has been spiking a fever that could be a number of things including an infection of some kind as a result of the tube in her nose, etc. The nurse suctioned some stuff that she thought might have come from her nose. They took 2 sets of cultures today, but I guess it will take up to 48 hours to get any results. I think I said that they want her to improve pretty much before they make any major changes other than things involving meds. They changed her over to a different sedative because she was requiring more and more and she was still agitated a lot. She is very quiet now and doesn't open her eyes as much, but this is what they want. She needs her oxygen levels required to go down...to long on receiving high doses of oxygen can cause problems. And the more active she is, the more oxygen she requires...so she needs to remain quiet and heal. Don called me last night, cause when he got home from work there was a letter from the couple who ran the orphanage in Costa Rica where the kids were preadoption. It was a very nice, uplifting letter of affirmation and hope. We have maintained contact with them through the years now and then. Maria received a letter/card from a facebook friend, too.

Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2009

2009-11-03T08:08:00.000-08:00

Maria is stable, but continues to require oxygen. This morning it was down to 60% and when we left last night it was at 70%. So that is an improvement. Her levels were remaining at 95% plus or minus and still are.

They are not going to do the lung wash because they think it could set her back, and they want her to step forward. They are looking at cultures and want to lood at them for the next 48 hours before deciding if they should do the lung wash (not correct term). Her lngs are "weepy" so they don't want to make more fluid there. They will be more aggressive at getting fluids off, however her kidneys are working well.

From culture results they may play with the antibiotics. She hs running a fever of 100 plus a little up and down that they keep checking on. The team of drs. are watching over her and considering options. It was Dr. Wolfe's partner that talked with us today, and he says they want to give her time to improve and that is better than rushing in and doing something that could set her back. (not his exact words)

Noylen is doing incredibly well, and it has been good for both of us that she is here. Please pray for her, too, cause the past couple of days have been very hard for her.

Sunday night

2009-11-01T19:36:00.000-08:00

Dr. Wolfe just came to give us a report. It has been a roller coaster ride to keep her oxygen levels up, as you know if you've been keeping up with posts. They are perplexed as to why she is not steadily getting better and are concerned that there might be scarring in the lungs. Tomorrow they are going to wash her lungs and if she stays stable they will use a scope to look around as well. They will test whatever fluids they get. The thinking is that the bacteria and pus may be gone from her lungs, but inflamation could remain.The doctor said that she may not survive, (because of her condition, not because of the test) so keep those prayers going strong. Esther tells me that this procedure is very common. The big deal now is that she needs to be able to reduce the amount of oxygen they give her and still maintain appropriate levels of oxygen.

Since Maria is heavily sedated tonight, and her levels are maintaining good scores, Noylen and I decided to come back to the house earlier than usual so we can get to sleep sooner and get up earlier to go back. Nurse promised to call if anything changed or went downhill. But it's hard to sleep when you need to pray. Praise God for His promises...that they are sure....that it's Jesus righteousness that we can claim...that I know he loves Maria dearly...that I believe His love covers us all.

Sunday, November 1

2009-11-01T10:01:00.001-08:00

This morning, Maria was responding to the nurse's questions. She asked her if she knew where she was, and she shook her head no. She told her she was in the hospital and was telling her about the baby and asked her if she had seen the baby, and maria nodded. Maria is doing well, but they need to get her off the oxygen...or at least down to the mid 30's or low 40's. They told us that if she wasn't fighting the mouthpiece so much they could lower her sedation. But she thrashes around when they bring her down. I came out here to send you the report, and before I got this much written, Cornel came to the door and motioned me to come quickly.

Maria was responding to his questions as well. She had tried to sit up. He asked her if she had seen the baby and she nodded. She started to thrash around, so I told her stuff about how she was doing well and that she needed the tube in her mouth, etc. etc. and that if she could remain calm, they could let her stay awake more. She seemed to calm, and we reassured her about herself and about the baby, etc.etc.

When she wakes up like that, her oxygen goes down, but it stayed above 90 this time. However her blood pressure went up. She was going back to sleep, so I came out to write this. She is on what is called a bivent (for Esther)...and if I understand it correctly she needs to be on a different type before they are ready to consider removing the tube thing. The nurse told me that down the road a bit, they could be talking about doing a trach tube and that it should not scare us, cause that would be easier for her and will heal up easily when she doesn't need it any more. She said that some people can have the bivent like Maria has and remain awake and watch TV etc without any problem, but others just can't do it. So we'll see if as Maria becomes more and more responsive if she can keep from panicing or not. The nurse said "I couldn't do it, I'd have to be out". I think I would, too.

Thursday, Esther's birthday 10/29

2009-10-29T09:56:00.001-07:00

This morning they are down to 60% oxygen they are giving Maria, and her scores are still holding fine...they were doing some stuff to her, so monitor wasn't displaying or I'd tell you exact scores. Periodically, the pulmonary team comes in and asks them to back off the sedation because they want to know that she will move her legs and arms. The nurse told me that she told them that Maria doesn't like it, but they insisted on knowing, so she said "I did it to please them". Movement resulted, so she put her back up and when I went in she was pretty quiet tho breathing "hard". I thought her face looked much better this morning...better coloring, more rested, eyes not as puffy.
At 12:41 p.m. (just now) they were giving her 55% oxygen and her score was 95%.
It gets scary now and then as they are working with her, but we know this is going to take time. I am "resting" in the Lord, because my faith is stronger now than in the beginning and it was pretty strong then.

Last night just before we left for the night I was in the room and Maria started what looked like gagging. Nurse said that she was coughing. They succioned out the stuff and she calmed right down. I was glad Noylen wasn't in the room at the time, cause the inhalation therapist was having trouble getting the suction to work and Dr. Wolfe took over and the equipment worked...One of them said that "you just have to do it left handed" and then the specialist had to take some ribbing. With a twinkle in her eye, Dr. Wolfe said "it's because I have so much more experience" but it was all in good nature.

Baby is doing fine and is breathing totally on her own not even pressure, thus no nose "clips". They increase her feeding daily and still has the iv going into the belly button, but may be off that today or tomorrow, then she'll be in a regular "bed" instead of an enclosed one. I still haven't seen her eyes yet, so she's still pretty sleepy, but all looks good for her. They hope to bring her up to Maria's room today, but I can't imagine that they would take her out of the isolet at this point.

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

2009-10-28T09:24:00.000-07:00

Maria is struggling with oxygen levels this morning. She was down to receiving 80% last night, but this morning they had to go back up to 100% and her levels are still fluctuating between 85 and 89 mostly. I saw it go up to 90 once, but the nurses are working with her to do what they can.

Noylen brought a devotional book that a friend gave her, and yesterday, Oct 27, we read that day's thought. How poignant...
"As you become increasingly aware of My Presence, you find it easier to discern the way you should go. This is one of the practical benefits of living close to Me. Instead of wondering about what is on the road ahead or worrying about what you should do if...or when...you can concentrate on staying in communication with Me. When you actually arrive at a choice-point, I will show you which direction to go.
Many people are so preoccupied with future plans and decisions that they fail to see choices they need to make today. Without any conscious awareness, they make their habitual responses. People who live this way find a dullness creeping into their lives. They sleepwak through their days, following well-worn paths of routine.
I, the Creator of the universe, am the most creative Being imaginable. I will not leave you circling in deeply rutted paths. Instead, I will lead you along fresh trails of adventure, revealing to you things you did not know. Stay in commnication with Me. Follow My guiding Presence. Psalm 32:8; Genesis 1:1"
The first paragraph described me well. Now I am leaving it all with Jesus, and when I try to pick it up again, I keep coming back to this place
Last night I woke up at midnight and couldn't sleep, so I prayed prayers that Maria might be praying if she could, and claiming several promises that I have been claiming. There is another "Maria" in the Bible that Jesus loved, and I know He loves this Maria just as well.

Maria's Update

2009-10-27T09:16:00.000-07:00

I regret that I did not post Maria's progress from here rather than status updates on Facebook. So I am going to start doing that since some of the posts are longer than the status update will allow.

If you are reading this and haven't been a FB friend of the family, in short, our daughter got sick and ended up in the hospital with strep pneumonia at 7 months pregnant. Things went downhill from there and she was air lifted to Indiana University Medical Center in their MICU (medical). After stabilizing her, they delivered the baby who is doing well. Maria started to improve as well, but it has been a rollercoaster ride to get her stable enough to do everything that needs to be done. Here is the latest update for those who have been following her progress. I will continue to post to this blog...which notifies you on FB when I do.

It's been a week since Maria was admitted into the hospital in Marion...wow what a week of emotional rollercoaster! We're still reeling, but not so dizzy! This morning Maria is back down to 70% oxygen that she's getting and keeping her levels in the mid + 90's, occasionally going down to low 90's, but they had her tipped on her side, because they were doing a cardiac echogram to find out if her heart is delivering enough oxygen to the body...this is mainly to R/O (rule out) that it's not (they think it is ok but want to rule out that possibility. Even though he can't be convinced to like the Patriots, I like him the best...although there is nothing to dislike about any of them. They have been trying to get her to the point that she does ok without receiving oxygen so they can get a CT scan of the head. She can still be on the vent while they do that (I had previously thought she couldn't be, but the vent is not the issue, it's the being off the oxygen...which still confuses me come to think of it since she's been off the oxygen before. I guess it's more about reducing the sedation and still not need the oxygen. Blood pressure is fine. The ony ther problem now is that her incision is oozing quite a bit of fluid that they are pretty sure is NOT infection, but they are trying to determine what it IS. They are keeping the area dry coninually. Now for Za'Mya, she is doing great. They are going to increase her feeding today. She just has the little "noseplug" and is not receiving any oxygen, just gentle pressure to ensure that the lungs don't deflate completely at the end of each breath. I forgot to ask if she was still under the light today. Her bilirubin was a bit off yesterday, so when they transferred her from NICU at Riley children's Hospital to I.U.M.C. Special Care unit, they put her under the light. She is doing great, tho, and is kicking her tiny legs. I haven't seen arm movement yet nor have I seen her eyes, tho the nurses have very briefly. I stopped in this morning to get a report but didn't go in to see Za'Mya and I forgot to ask if she was still under the light. I'll go down to see her this afternoon.

Computer up and running.

2009-10-15T15:28:00.000-07:00

We have a working computer now. The camera is a different story, tho. Don was told that it wasn't worth fixing. One of these days I'll get the pictures off the chip and share them, tho. Won't be needing a camera for a while, tho. Gotta recover from having to put so much into fixing the huge deck we have on the back of the house.

Nothing much to tell. Maria is sick, tho. I wonder about the health care in Marion, Indiana, tho. She's back in the hospital for the second....maybe third time in the past few days. They checked her for the flu, but that was negative...thankfully, I suppose. Her C-section is scheduled for December 11. They have (or did this a.m.) in labor and delivery. Don't think that's in the plan, but I'm sure they want to monitor what's going on.

2009-10-05T19:20:00.000-07:00

Don says people keep asking him how come I haven't posted anything for a long time. So here's some tidbits...

Our home computer should be back "up" tomorrow night, I hope. Don sold our laptop to our daughter, Noylen, but she is generous with letting us use it while ours is not working. Problem is I can't do anything with pictures, and since I've been on facebook, no pictures is b..o..o..rr..r..ing!

Let's see, what's happened since our July vacation??? Hmm. Well, school started, and I started working in Don's office part time. I haven't noticed any extra money...what's up with that??

In September, Don had Risk Management meetings in New York and I went with him and attended the guest program they host. I especially enjoyed Ellis Island. Since Don's grandma Esther came through there, it took on a different meaning as I was looking at all the pictures. I took a lot of pictures, but later when we were in Michigan I dropped my camera and jammed the lens. I'm expecting that I will be able to take the chip out and upload the pictures I did get.

After the meetings, we went to Michigan via Wheeling, WV (to see Don's aunt and uncle for a few hours) and Indiana (to see niece, Jami Carlson; attend Bill & Bonnie Hicks' 40th anniversary celebration; and Maria and Adrian). Then on to Berrien Springs, MI to see sister, Carolyn and niece, Dena Umek. We drove up to Battle Creek to see more family briefly, before driving to Hampton, VA to see daughter, Tandita and her husband, Todd. Todd is stationed in Norfolk on the George H W Bush and we got to see some of the base. It's quite amazing. He tells us it is the largest Navy base in the world.

Reality has returned, however, as we scramble to catch up on all the work we missed during the 16 days we were gone. I think Don is caught up, but I have to do a bit more to be up to date...stuff that can wait.

Last Wednesday Noylen picked me up at work, and on the way home we got rear-ended. After getting all the insurance info, we drove to the hospital to have Noylen checked out since she is 19 weeks pregnant. It turned out that there was blood around the placenta...placental abruption...as a result of the impact. She's been on bed rest and goes back to the doctor tomorrow for followup. So far, so good. I've had a little extra pain in the neck/shoulder area as you would expect, but nothing serious. I'm used to that kind of pain since I started getting old and all the pains that go with being over 60...well, at least for me it was 60. Just like someone flipped a switch and my body started falling apart. My latest is foot pain, but I'm planning to go to the doc to check on that one. Oh, wait, gotta stop before I become this old lady who can only talk about her maladies!

Coming up is Don's quick trip to New England again...oops, I forgot to mention seeing our wonderful friends, Bill and Melanie Brace on that last trip. Don will be seeing them again, cause the short trip is to attend graveside services for his sister who died in the spring. Bill will be officiating. Since we just finished redoing our deck...$$$$...and we just did a short vacation, only Don would go this time.

We probably won't be going on any long trips for quite a while...maybe not until family reunion next summer. We'll see. Esther and Vanessa are trying to make a train trip out here in the spring, so we're hoping that works out.

So....when I get my computer up and pictures loaded, I'll post them.

2009-08-06T19:55:00.001-07:00

Our vacation in July was spent in Missouri at the Lake of the Ozarks area. One day my cousin, Ron Grubbs, came down from St. Louis to take us out on the lake. His Grubbs' Tubb is docked near where we stayed. It was the a very relaxing week and the highlight of the week. He grilled us some delicious vegeburgers with all the trimmings.

This is my cousin, Ron, with my sister, Carolyn.

Ron let Jim steer the boat for a while. He even let me steer it for a minute while he fixed something...I was glad to give it up when he got back. Not quite like steering a vehicle!!

This is what we saw from the balcony of the unit where we stayed...top floor, we were thankful for the elevator!

My sister, Carolyn and me.

Getting ready for trip...

2009-07-13T15:33:00.000-07:00

In the WEE hours of the morning Thursday, July 16, Don and I are headed to the Sacramento airport to fly to St. Louis, Missouri. We're meeting two of my Michigan siblings and will visit with two of my other siblings who live in St. Louis along with some cousins. My Michigan family will go to the Lake of the Ozarks for a week. We are looking forward to that very much.

While we are gone, someone Don knows is coming in and shampooing our carpets, a job that he feels certain will be successful. We had debated if we just needed to replace the carpet, although it doesn't seem that worn...just that dirty. So $200 and change to do the whole house sounded much better than replacing all the carpet and worth trying it. He seems very competent and comes highly recommended. Here's hoping. After we moved in, we noticed spots coming to the surface that were probably cleaned previously but maybe not effectively. I hope, I hope, I hope.

Well, lots to do. See you in a couple of weeks!

Long Absence

2009-07-04T15:45:00.000-07:00

Someone asked my husband why I hadn't posted anything to my blog for so long. Truthfully, I got hooked up with Facebook, and on there people make comments. On here it's like writing to yourself!!

Of course, on here you get more detailed into your daily activities, but then sometimes that's kind of hard. Oh, well, I'm not sure what the future will hold, but now and than I probably will record some happenings. Here's the latest:

Don put me back to work...LOL. I am working part time in his Paradise office. I am enjoying it since I'm accustomed to doing office work in my later years. Not as exciting as teaching P.E., but I like it fine. When we lived in Massachussetts (according to my friend, Shawn, the only place worth living) I worked in public schools, and the first job taught me much about computers. Then we moved to Idaho where I taught Special Ed in the public school system, and the school district offered very inexpensive classes to their teachers. I took several education classes and two or three computer classes while I was there. I think if one stops learning, you stop living. I'm no expert, but I am able to work in the business office because I decided to learn how to use a computer...and the opportunities to learn just fell into my lap. PTL

Ok, I'm just rambling about whatever comes to my head here...I'm sure you can tell. I think I already told you why we moved to California. I'm not a "California girl" although this is the second time I've lived in California. This time, we are half way to the north, so the weather is better.

Don, Noylen, and I joined a fitness club called Fit One. They have an indoor and an outdoor pool, so we can swim year round. We are doing well at going. I wasn't sold on the idea at first, but I was sure I'd swim, so we joined. If it was just treadmills and weights, etc, I would have trouble getting out to do that. However, I love to swim, and Don is walking laps for now. We go at least 3 times a week. Don also found out if we go a certain amount of time, our medical insurance will refund some of the cost of the membership. Saving money for a business manager is like dangling a carrot in front of the 'ol mule. (Don't you love the comparison"?)

Well, that's enough for today. Hope your life is peaches and cream. Speaking of peaches, we bought a box of the yummiest peaches and a little box of the yummier strawberries yesterday. And we bought a little box of BLACKBERRIES! I can't believe how long it's been since I ate a blackberry. These were nice fat ones like we used to pick when I was a kid. There wasn't enough for a pie, tho.

Update on Don's sister, Dorothy Armstrong.

2009-04-13T20:51:00.000-07:00

We got the following e-mail from Dorothy's husband on Sabbath:

"Dot has taken a down turn this am. She tried to go to the bathroom early this morning and didn't get out of the bedroom before she fell due to weakness. I awoke to her making noise trying to get up. She could not assist me in getting up. After using the bathroom and getting back to the bed I checked her pulse and it was very rapid. Close to 120. I called the hospice people and a nurse came out and did a check. Dot could respond but like she was half asleep. She is resting and it looks like she will probably spend most of her time in bed now. It is impossible for me to predict what is going to happen."

The hospice nurse told Clyde that the 6-month long-end estimate was probably more optimistic than realistic, especially since this last incident. Don and I will be driving up Thursday to visit. Clyde said he thought Dorothy might recognize him but not sure she would really know he was there or interact.

On a brighter note, Tandita arrived Sunday and will be here for a month doing her last clinical to complete her Physical Therapist Assistant program and will graduate with her Associate degree in May. Don and I will be going back for her graduation in Battle Creek...Kellogg Community College.

2009-04-09T10:30:00.000-07:00

Don wanted me to upload this picture even tho it is blurry, cause he didn't like the other one. It is proof that he's officially a Californian. I think not! However it is proof that he finally did cut through all the red tape of getting the license plate since they wanted his mother's signature cause her name was included on the title to the van. It only took nearly 6 months, and the DMV was great. If you recall the story about meeting Johnnie, the elderly man that we met at the DMV and Don helped him get his license...well, I think that didn't hurt any in they're being cooperative...that plus Don went in numerous times trying to work it out. We finally got it the end of December or the first of January.

I took pictures of the first and second graders making dinosaurs out of shape blocks and legos. They are learning about dinosaurs for science. I hope to be able to send them so my e-mail so I can save them to the computer, but I haven't figured out how to do that. I tried to send it to Don's phone since the teacher I subbed for was at the same meetings but it wouldn't send. I'm still learning how to be technologically saavy! But I guess at least I'm trying!

I enjoyed the kids in 1st and 2nd grade even more than the other classroom, although they were a good group, too. Don asked me if I was ready to teach full time now. Guess what I said.

I'm Home!

2009-04-04T18:11:00.000-07:00

Don says it's time that I write on my blog. Let's see, do I always do what Don says? Hmm.

Don came to Michigan during his spring break, and I picked him up in Indianapolis on a Thursday night. We drove down to Georgia Friday and went to see Jairo on Sabbath. It was a nice surprise for him and a great treat for us. He has been doing construction during the week. His court date was moved back to May 22 when they moved him, but he just got word that it was moved back to April 22. Wow, never knew they did that! Anyhow, he looked good, and we have had some incredible letters from him during the past few months that make my heart sing. Please continue to keep him in your prayers.

Noylen came home with us and is making the effort to bring some order to her life and future. You can pray that she find a good therapist that understands what she needs. We had communion at church today, and they have a place for families to have the footwashing ceremony together here, and that was nice to do together. Keep us all in your prayers as our kids are all finding their way through life. They have struggles we never experienced nor quite understand.

I called Carolyn today, and she was watching her favorite 3ABN evangelist, Mr. Astcherick (don't know the spelling for sure) Anyhow we talked for most of an hour and had a good time chatting.

This past week I did sub teaching for a 3 and 4th grade classroom. I was ready for Friday to end even though it was a nice group of kids. I'm not used to working full time, and I was reminded of the joys of teaching minus the grading and planning! This coming week I sub for a first-second grade classroom that will require a bit more energy, but it is only for 3 days.

Still in Berrien Springs

2009-03-15T06:21:00.001-07:00

As most of you already know, my sister, Eleanor Umek, died suddenly Feb. 20. Since I am not working, I stayed on for a while and am at my other sister's house (Carolyn Grubbs). I am doing what I can to help my niece pack up her mom's things. I hope you will keep the family in your prayers as they tackle this extremely difficult task...both emotionally and physically.

Both Dena and Carolyn caught a very bad cold, and so I am glad I am here to do what I can to help out. Primarily, I think, it's more emotional support, although my numerous moves about the country have developed some pretty solid packing skills...I knew that would come in handy some day...yeah, right. We picked up some "end rolls" from the newspaper office for packing breakables and are on our second roll already, so I guess that's progress.

Also, Don is coming at the beginning of his spring break on Thursday, and we will be going back home on the 25/26th. We will pick Noylen up on the 25th and drive down to Indpls where we will fly out the next morning. We thank you for the many expressions of sympathy and prayers that have ascended for the family. Praise the Lord for his precious promises of sustaining grace and of his promise to come again to reunite us with Him and our loved ones.

2009-02-20T15:39:00.000-08:00

Eleanor Gene Grubbs Umek passed away suddenly this morning. Funeral arrangements at Berrien Springs, Michigan are still pending. I will miss her as will all her family and friends.

2009-02-16T22:38:00.000-08:00

It's been a long time since I've written anything on here. I've been preoccupied with reconnecting with former students and old friends on Facebook. We have settled in pretty well here in California. We're getting a lot more snow that we expected, but it doesn't get very cold, so we're not minding it.

I'm beginning to get to know some of the people from church and making friends. I was invited to a stamping "party" and got to meet a few new people and got to know some others a little better. Don and I took a seminar of Dave Ramsey (videos) that lasted about 12 weeks and we got to know several people there pretty well. They were in our discussion group. It was fun...and yes, Don would say the same thing. If you ever get a chance to go, we highly recommend it.

We had a foot of snow that is melting since it has turned to rain and the temperatures remain just above freezing at night and about 40 in the day time. Maybe it's the rainy weather, but I've been feeling pretty lazy and blah lately. Or maybe I'm just bored and need a job or something!
Oh, well, I'll get over that when the sun comes back out.

We got a letter from Jairo on Sabbath. It is amazing how much his faith remains strong even when things don't seem to be always going as well as he'd hoped. He just got moved again, (for the 3rd time) and he just got a work assignment driving a tractor outside the prison, so he seems to be feeling good about that. We got a call from Natalie today, and she has gone to Michigan where her mom lives and is living with her. We are coming to Michigan in May for Tandita's graduation and plan to drive down to see Jairo, and she and Junior plan to go with us at that time. Jairo plans to come to live with us as soon as he can after he gets out, and Natalie indicated that she wants to come, too. Please keep them all in your prayers as they are trying to put their life back together on solid ground.

Don is dealing with auditors this week and last and who knows how long. They are doing a 3-year audit since that's how long since it was done...unusual.

Me...I'm starting my day with the book THROUGH THE BIBLE with HMS Richards, and am enjoying this plan that keeps things in sequence (at least that's my understanding and is how it's been so far) I'm in the book of Exodus now and will do that slowly since there's so much there, and also since I am attempting to write a Biblical novel about the Exodus. I'm even combing through the begats! So if any of you are an expert about this story and especially about people like Caleb and Joshua, please share. I especially am interested in their geneaology and how old they were when the Hebrews left Egypt.

Biopsy...Edited

2009-01-08T19:41:00.001-08:00

Doc needs more info to know why Noylen's enzymes continue to rise (according to biopsy). She will have an ultrasound in the morning. Will update tomorrow.

This is tomorrow. They are going to do endoscopy to remove stones, may need surgery later to remove gall bladder...yet to be determined. She has jaundice but not hepatitis. I'll add any editing to this tomorrow rather than putting up a new blog. She'll be in the hospital a couple more days at least.

Sunday...Surgery to remove gallbladder is scheduled for Tuesday. No stones in the duct.

Surgery still scheduled for Tuesday. They had to put in a PICC line cause she kept blowing out the IV's and has bruises everywhere from attempts. I sense some apprehension and am sorry I am not closer, but have said all I can to let her know this is such a common surger

Today is Tuesday, Surgery done laproscopically, everything went as expected. Noylen will be in overnight...release planned for Wednesday.

Hospitalization

2009-01-08T14:39:00.000-08:00

Noylen is in the hospital again. This time they are getting ready to do an ultrasound and a liver bioposy. She has jaundice and they think will need her gall bladder removed. She's been in the hospital with the same symptoms a couple of times since October or November. I'm getting all my information from her right now, but after the testing is done, I hope to speak with her doctor. She's had a lot of pain and unable to keep anything down. Her enzyme levels were up 58 points since Dec 27...the last time she was there.

All is Quiet at the Perkins House

2009-01-05T15:23:00.000-08:00

All is quiet in the Perkins household everywhere but inside the memory bank. I can look at the pictures taken with a camera as well as the ones clicked in my mind. The above picture is Angelina with her cousin, Lydia on her right and Lydia's two cousins. The boy on the end is Lydia's brother, (and of course Angelina's cousin, too) They are waiting for the parade to begin, and what a wonderful time we all had there in Pasadena. Lydia's dad and his sisters spent the night on the corner so we could have front row seats. Even though I lived in Loma Linda 3 years, I never went to the parade, so it was a first for us.

At the Grauman's Chinese Theatre, we took pictures of Angelina comparing handprints with Margaret O'Brien and Shirley Temple. She thought it was a lot of fun and so did we. I'd put up the Hollywood sign, but I think you all know what it's like! Ryan Clinite was our tour guide for this part of the sight seeing. Thanks, Ryan...we wouldn't have done it on our own.

And what's a trip to Disneyland without a picture taken sitting in the tea cup. Angelina loved all the rides, and I had to go on this one with her because Esther was getting a fast pass at the time, and they wouldn't let her go on it alone. The last time I was at Disneyland many years ago, I got dizzy from all the whirling rides and felt so sick. I had already been on Space Mountain (with my eyes closed some of the time) and a couple other roller coaster ones. But I found if I just looked at Angelina inside the "cup" it didn't make me dizzy, so I did fine. I went on the Materhorn (I think it's called something else now) and one other one and (surprisingly) didn't get dizzy or have to close my eyes.

Yes, it was this crowded everywhere...we picked the busiest day, I think. They even closed the park to admissions early due to the size of the crowd. That was the bummer part.

Need I say more...Angelina is having a great time, as you can see. Well, I'll add some more pictures on the side later. Right now I need to dismantle Christmas decorations and clean up a dirty house that has been neglected since December 16...but it certainly has been worth it. Thank you, Esther and Angelina, for making our Christmas, and thank you, Nick, for spending a Christmas without them so we could not be so lonely. You are special, too, and we hope next year you will be able to come out with them. And to my other kids...start saving so you can come, too.

Disneyland here we come...

2008-12-28T00:40:00.000-08:00

We will be leaving early in the morning for southern CA. I'm almost packed with just the last minute things and things I forgot earlier. We won't be back until Friday, so you may not hear from us while we're gone unless Don takes the lap top computer and the motel has free internet. You know Don's cell, so you can contact us that way if you need to.

We got a call this afternoon, and Noylen is in the hospital with pancreatitis which can be serious, but they're hoping things will clear up soon or they will have to do surgery. We hope to speak to the doctor in the morning, but he told Noylen he couldn't talk to us even if she gave permission (on the phone, that is...what's that all about?) So your prayers in her behalf will be appreciated.
Symptoms came on suddenly, and from what I read on the internet about it verified that it sometimes happens that way.

Have a happy new year!

2008-12-23T12:24:00.000-08:00

I just found this video of Angelina and her cousin Makayla.

The Nutcracker

2008-12-23T09:39:00.000-08:00

The Nutcracker was an amazing experience

We had a lot of fun.

2008-12-22T12:08:00.000-08:00

We got this picture from Tandita. All it said was "Tell me what you think"

Recovering from a day of making candy and cookies

2008-12-18T10:05:00.000-08:00

Esther and I made cookies and candies for the Christmas baskets and it took us all day, but the end result was a good one. Today is cleanup-the-kitchen-day!! And I'm tired because I'm no longer accustomed to keeping going ALL day!! But I'm a survivor, so all is well!

I talked to Mark, my nephew, and they are going to PUC to see their daughter and son-in-law...well, really to see their grandkids! We are hoping it will work out for us to drive back down to the L.A. area with them when they go back home, so we'll see.

More Snow

2008-12-15T07:39:00.000-08:00

There was 8 inches of snow on the railing this morning. My batteries are dead, and I stole batteries from the TV remote in the spare bedroom and got this picture before they went dead, too. Don is trying to get out of the driveway now. Kinda hard to do with a spade shovel. So much for the here today, gone tomorrow maybe 4 inches of snow they said we'd get up here! It's supposed to snow "flurries" several more days. No school today, tho. But Don has a Dr. appointment in less than an hour.

More Snowing pictures.

2008-12-14T15:36:00.001-08:00

View from the living room

View from the front porch

View from the deck

We're getting a little bit of snow that brings a touch of home that is very comforting without the extreme cold. It's nice.

It's snowing!

2008-12-14T11:17:00.000-08:00

Our first snow since moving to CA

Taken from the deck off the back

Nice to have a touch of "home"

Today is our wedding anniversary...34 years! I guess the snow came today to make it seem more like our anniversary since we were married in Michigan where there definitely was snow.

Yesterday we were invited to Gary/Greg and Sandy Dickson's for Sabbath dinner. We spent a wonderful afternoon with them. It's nice to visit "old" friends...oh, that's right, most of our friends are "old" according to our kids! Oh, well, that shows you what THEY know! Last night we went to the academy's dessert auction. Don loves auctions of any kind if it's for a good cause. He enjoys running people up and sometimes ends up buying something he didn't intend to, but we don't spend much on entertainment, so it's ok, especially when it's for the school. We got some wonderful peanut brittle, almond roca, and brownies/cookies. Most of it will go on a plate to give back to the kids and adults who work with Don if we can stay out of it long enough to package it up. The almond roca is sooo good. I'll try to save some for you, Esther, but make no promises since it's pretty tempting!

Adrian

2008-12-11T10:19:00.000-08:00

Vanessa and Alan have had some concernes lately regarding Adrian's behaviors and took him to the doctor. Apparently he has been having some seizures that have increased lately. They are scheduling an EEG hopefully tomorrow, to find out what is going on. The doctor thought it probably was "Absence seizures" since he kind of spaces out for short periods of time. She told Vanessa that it would not cause further brain damage, but of course they will find out what is going on and what to do about it. So please continue to keep our little bundle of miracles in your prayers.

Don is on his way to Georgia now after visiting family and friends in Florida. He finally reached the right people and has permission to see Jairo tomorrow from 9:00-11:00. I have been going through some boxes in the garage and am getting closer to making room for a vehicle in there!! I am SURE Esther will help me finish up that project next week!! She helped me move to Arkansas, and if you recall, Don was in the hospital with an abcess on his liver at the time. I don't know what I would have done without her, cause I got so bogged down or overwhelmed with the mess we stepped into. She took charge and got us going and organized so we could function. Don't tell Don, but I have reached the point that if I don't want it, I'm pitching it since he "fails to see the urgency"...a famous quote of his regarding others (at times) now applies to himself!

I hope you all have a very nice Christmas season. We plan to enjoy Esther and Angelina, see a few sites, go to Disneyland and see Mark and Rick (families) while there...as well as Ron Cronk, old friends from our Walla Walla College days. Oh, and a former student from Battle Creek days.
We plan to take Angelina to see the Nutcracker at our performing arts center here in Paradise. She is into gymnastics and a little ballet, so we are hoping she will enjoy it.

Oh, By the Way...

2008-12-07T15:40:00.001-08:00

Since no one commented on any of the California Trivia questions, I'm not going to give the answers! So there! (Hope you can take a joke)

Don in Alabama...update on Adrian

2008-12-06T16:25:00.000-08:00

Don has some training in Alabama on Monday, so he flew today so he could drive over to Georgia to see Jairo since his visitation is (or was) Sundays only. But we just got the word that they transferred him again and Don might not be able to see him at all. He has been in contact with the place where he is and there is still a possibility that he might get to see him. He won't know until Monday. He's going to be gone all week and will also go to Florida to see his cousin and a number of friends down there. Plans to go golfing with Aubrey.

We saw some accidents due to the heavy fog on the run to the airport. In fact, on the way home I had to hit the brakes hard at the same spot where the accident was on the way out...and I was "looking" for that spot. I didn't come close to rear ending anyone, but I never saw the warning that a stoplight was coming up. Good thing I was "keeping my distance".There was second accident on the other side as we went thru, and I kept seeing emergency vehicles headed that way for a long time. I got to church a little before Sabbath School ended. I was supposed to make it in time for SS, but SOMEONE left their wallet in the van door, and I had to turn around and go back...which I was planning to do anyhow since I went the wrong way on the interstate after leaving the airport! That plus the fog took longer.

I got a note from Vanessa and thought you might like an update on Adrian. She says: "Adrain's hand is giving him problems now that he is trying to crawl. He can't hold his weight up on it, and he seems to use it less then he did before when playing. I put a sock over his good hand to encourage him to use the bad hand and he couldnt pick anything up or play. He got very frustrated and eventually just sat there and didnt try to play at all."

Esther and Angelina will be here in less than 2 weeks...YIPPEEEE!

2008-11-30T21:05:00.000-08:00

Today was kind of a lazy day. I slept through part of one of the football games Don watched today. So now, he's ready to hit the sack, but I am not going to make the same mistake I made Friday night. So I'm writing while he sleeps. I do have some new pictures of the grandkids, so I guess you'd like to see them! This one is Vanessa and Alan's baby, Adrian Marquez Bradley. We sure are sorry to miss out on so much of his life, but we are glad for the technology that lets us see the grandkids in pictures as they grow. I have a vivid imagination and can easily imagine holding them and giving them hugs and trying to spoil them!

Well, technology is great when you know how to use it!! The pictures aren't going up "where" I told them to, but the other picture is Adrian and Gabriel who are cousins. Both had rough starts from birth, and both are doing well. This one was taken when Maria was up to Vanessa's house trying to get an ID that she lost. She also lost her citizenship papers a LONG time ago and it is quite costly to replace it and difficult to prove who you are without it. She got caught driving without a license (she can't get one without proof of who she is and even an ID won't do the job) and I don't know what she's going to do to stay out of jail for that if she doesn't get the papers. She works at Steak n Shake and has been working there for quite a while.

We had a good Thanksgiving break, restful. We enjoyed the dog we cared for while our friends went out of town. They came and picked her up today, and I forgot to get a picture, so sorry about that. She is little comparable to Jairo's little dog, Ocho, was except this one was black and white. Part shitsu (not sure of spelling) and part poodle. Very nice dog, but I'm glad we don't have one cause you have to take care of them 24/7.

Don leaves for some computer training in Birmingham, Alabama all next week...well the training is only a couple days, so he is taking advantage of the time to go see Jairo and some Florida friends and family. Jairo has been learning how to write a "brief" to present in court. He has been studying law in order to help himself and has ended up helping a couple of other people in the process. He is enjoying it but still prefers physical labor to sitting behind a desk.

While Don is gone I'll be working on GR-FR, yard work, and writing on my books. So I plan to keep very busy. (GR-FR is Grubbs-Ray Family Reunion)

Don't ever go to bed early

2008-11-29T00:41:00.000-08:00

Here I am, wide awake. I went to bed early and woke up well before midnight. The sun goes down so early now that it just SEEMS late. I guess I won't do that again. I guess I could read a while, that usually puts me to sleep if it's not too exciting a book.

Tandita finalized coming here in April for 4 weeks to do her final inservice...I can't remember what it's called, but anyhow she'll work in a physical therapy lab getting lots of practice for her future career as a physical therapist assistant. She is really enjoying the work so far. She does an 8-week rotation in January/Feb. as well. We are looking forward to having her home for a while.
Esther and Angelina are coming for Christmas. We wish her husband, Nick, could come too, but that's not working out.
We had a quiet Thanksgiving. Don and I delivered meals for the Salvation Army on Thanksgiving morning. We were supposed to serve for those who came to the dinner, but they were short drivers and we ended up doing that instead. We only messed up on one...we reversed the "order" and gave the family who were supposed to get 2 dinners four, and the one with 4 only got two. Fortunately we had to call that family because we couldn't get in the driveway and they had caller ID. They called us as we were on our way back to the church to pick up more meals, so we apologized and told them we'd bring them since they happened to live one street over from our house. We didn't feel TOO bad, cause the family who got the extra seemed like they really could use the extra.
We are dog-sitting for Gene Keller. I'll put up a picture of the dog later. It's a nice dog, well-mannered. Good job, Kellers!

Well, guess I'll try reading now!

Oops, missed two pictures...

2008-11-24T10:27:00.000-08:00

Daphne and Breasa at our house...the other pictures were taken at their house

View from the conference room. Lanny gave us a tour of their new offices.
He is the Union Educational Supt.

2008-11-24T10:13:00.000-08:00

The new NPUC office

Lanny and Duska Hurlbert, longtime special friends. We wish we were able to see them more often. We spent a little time with them when we went up for the Patzer memorial service.

Daphne and Eluid and their two beautiful children. Daphne and her family were at the orphanage in Costa Rica when our adopted kids arrived. She and her sister and mom lived with us for a time while the girls attended UCA. We enjoyed the company of Daphne, Eluid, Anthony, and Breasa last Sabbath at our home.

Sweet picture, eh? It's obvious they love each other, too. Pretty neat kids.

A picture's worth a thousand words, they say!

2008-11-21T14:18:00.000-08:00

More California Trivia

2008-11-18T12:45:00.000-08:00

I decided I'm not going to attempt to re-create the last posting that I lost. It was about our trip to Portland for the Patzer memorial service and all the old friends we briefly greeted. I see they are posting the service online and offer a printed version (although I didn't say much about the service).

So...here's some more California trivia while I take a break from working hard today. You can answer if you want to, just for fun.

Former questions and answers are:
Los Angeles lies farther east than Reno!!
California's largest lake was created in 1905 when the Colorado River flooded.
Tarzana got its name from the Tarzan stories; the author founded the town.
Anaheim was settled by immigrants from Rhineland...the city's German name means home by the river.

New Questions:
Where is the lowest elevation in the Western Hemisphere?
California's highest and lowest points are how far apart?
How many different kinds of fruits and vegetables are grown by California farmers?
In 1826 98% of the territory's population were Native Americans...what percent of CA's current population is Native American?
What is known as "the crookedest street in the world"?

Ok, who can give the right answer first??

Home Sweet Home

2008-11-17T10:08:00.001-08:00

Well, I just deleted probably the longest post I've ever written...accidentally, of course. I am NOT going to recreate it now. I'm too ticked.

A Tribute to our Veterans!

2008-11-10T12:58:00.000-08:00

This was written by my nephew. He wrote it about a generation of our family after losing several in death. But since this applies to many others, I thought you might like reading it since tomorrow is Veteran's Day.

ONE BY ONE
Phil Umek
January 15, 1996

One by one the men who are our heroes are passing on. The men who taught us so much about life. The men who are so strong, so big, so invincible, so determined to make this world a better place. One by one God calls them home.

They want so much for us to understand the importance of family, of friendship, true friendship. Oh…how this world needs to listen to them. Their smiles are brightest when children are playing…and we all want to be on their team. Now, one by one they are leaving us.

They helped us see that you don’t have to be tall to have strength, that you don’t have to shout for people to listen, that hard work is always better than just getting by. One by one they march. Proud, Loyal patriots who defended our country without being asked, knowing it was right! They ask for nothing, and they deserve everything! They don’t ever complain even when they have something to complain about. They endure pain with a smile and a concern for others. One by one they are passing.

Who will be there to teach our children to play ball? They made a back yard game seem like the world series. Who will be there to show them that fingers go inside the glove, not outside? Who will be there to remind them that a good bunt is as important as a home run, that you can pick up a chair by the back leg, that “near falls” don’t mean the match, that teamwork is unbeatable, and that you don’t have to apologize for winning? One by one we see them go.

Our hands are not small any more and we have learned to reach as high as we used to throw. Because of you we will teach them, remembering many of your words, reminding them of who you are and what you mean to us. One by one we have to say good bye.

We long to see you, to hear your laughter, to listen to just one more story, to hear your spoon clink against your coffee cup, to shake your hand just one more time and say “thank you for all you taught us. We are so proud of you and we love you!”

Be at peace and God…Please take care of them, one by one.

Latest Word from Vanessa

2008-11-09T18:41:00.000-08:00

The latest from Vanessa is:

"...everything is really good. Adrian is very happy and doing well. He is now wearing a special brace on his hand to separate his fingers which tend to stick together. He is just about sitting up on his own though he doesn't roll over yet. Carter is back in school and though I miss him a ton, I am feeling much better about the whole thing than I have in a long time. I am working on getting registered for the winter semester at Lake Mich College. I have an appointment tomorrow with my advisor. Alan and I are really excited about that. We are doing really good. we are really happy and life is pretty uneventful. Which is good. I like the peace and quiet. It's a nice change."

Divide and Conquer

2008-11-09T12:27:00.000-08:00

Tandita is finishing up her second year of the physical therapy assistant program and has some inservice training that she has to do this year. She is doing one in Niles and one in Benton Harbor back to back and will be staying with Vanessa while she does that. She is in the process of trying to work out the last one at the Paradise Adventist Hospital here in April/May. We are hoping it will all be worked out. The hospital has a pretty large physical therapy outpatient program. In fact that's where I went for the PT that I just finished. We're kinda excited about having her come. I thought you'd like to see this picture of her.

When we grocery shop, we use the divide and conquer method to get done. A few days ago we went to Chico and got groceries at WinCo, a discount store that also has bulk staples, etc. We first experienced this chain when we lived in Idaho. It was busy but not too crowded (as it sometimes is). Anyhow, Don sent me to find a couple of items while he scooped up some things in another section.

I was hurrying down the left side of the aisle with some canned milk in my hand. (Don had the cart) Suddenly a gentlemen stopped in front of me (coming from the opposite direction). I was kinda hemmed in and couldn't help but see what he was reaching for. He pulled one jar off the shelf, and I said "sauerkraut!"
Now, I haven't considered buying sauerkraut for many years. He looked at me as he reached for another, so feeling a little stupid for my comment said, "I love sauerkraut." He said, "so do I, it's good."

"I think I'll buy some, too." I decided. So he handed me the second jar as he took it off the shelf and thanked him. We both laughed, and I thanked him and went on my way. When I found Don, he was not impressed that I bought sauerkraut. "Don't fix any of that for me!" was his response. Well, with some big franks cut into it, I think I can have a couple great lunches. I'll let you know next week if it was as good as it looked.

I'm wondering if any of you remember having sauerkraut and if you liked it. I even remember my mom making it herself...but I don't remember how it turned out. But I do like it a lot.
This afternoon Don and I are going to the home of the Spencers for a short visit. (This is for the Boston connection) Don saw Gary at church, and Mary called us in the afternoon. I don't think I have ever met either one of them, but of course Don has.

Skeletons in my closet?

2008-11-04T12:08:00.000-08:00

My family has an e-mail "family list" where we josh back and forth. Sometimes it gets interesting. (emphasis on the "sometimes") I wish I could get them to switch to this, cause the comments people make (reply all) often get all mixed up and it's hard for some to figure out what the comment means or refers to. This would take care of that, cause all the comments would be under the same posting.

Anyhow, I thought I'd post some of the latest insights you may find interesting...or not.

I guess "or not", cause I discovered it would take too long to find the right sequence of information-sharing. Oh well, no gossip for you today...BUT DID YOU VOTE?? We did. Don was the first one there, and he got to go around to all the ballot boxes to check to make sure they were empty (no cheating here). In Magalia, our voting is done in the fellowship hall of the Adventist church just up the road from us.

O me, O my!

2008-11-03T16:43:00.000-08:00

You know you're old when all you have to talk about is doctor appointments! But the unheard of raises its voice whether you like it or not!

My first appointment was at 7:00 this morning!! It was physical therapy, tho, so it woke me up. That is going well, and the "good" arm has only 10% more range of motion than the "bad" arm...and probably 10% less pain!! Well, the good arm has no pain and the bad one is MUCH better.

Then from there I walked around the courtyard to the other side of the complex and reported for my 9:30 dermatologist appointment half an hour early. Since I've had a skin cancer issue once before, my new doc made arrangements to keep tabs on it. That's good since my GP removed the previous one and I was always a little edgy about not seeing a dermatologist later when everything I saw looked suspicious. LOL Anyhow, he looked me over from head to toe and didn't see anything worrysome. I asked him how much he would charge me to remove all those BOTHERsome hangy wangies around my throat that my grandbabies love to grab. He said "no charge", so I said, "great, do it!" Good thing my grandbabies aren't around now, cause the spots would certainly look intiguing now!

Tomorrow it's to the dentist...guess Don wants to get me in shape! Rightly so, cause I have a tendency to put things off. My mamogram isn't until next week, but I haven't had one of those in 4 years...yes, shame on me.

Well, I wish I had something more interesting to report, but ah the life of life with no kids or grandkids around. Or maybe blah the life. But I do love those "comments"!!

Dinner with Johnnie and Jeannie

2008-10-30T23:27:00.000-07:00

Well, tonight was our dinner out with Johnnie and his wife of 61 years (in a few weeks). Johnnie is the one that Don helped get his driver's license. He came here from Spain when he was just a year old, and the lady at the DMV was telling him he needed a green card. We missed that part cause that had happened on a previous visit. He not only enlisted in the Army during WWII and had his papers, but he also had his naturalization papers. Both were too old to satisfy the current establishment.

After they were married a while, he took Jeannie back to her grandmother and told her that he was bringing her back because he didn't want her any more. The grandmother said, "sorry, but you married her and you have to keep her." Anyhow, they had 6 kids and will soon have 61 years together. Is that a great story or what! Unfortunately only 2 of their kids are still living, so that's sad. But we enjoyed getting to know them better. He worked for the railroad all those years. Was an engineer in the early days, learned all about steam engines, and eventually was in charge of the all the engineers. Lived all of their life out here and in Nevada.

Well, that was the highlight of our day today!!

Esther

2008-10-28T15:09:00.000-07:00

We got a call from Esther who received an invitation in the mail today to participate in the International Scholar Laureate Program from the Delegation on Nursing. You can go to this website
http://www.scholarlaureate.org/index.cfm and click on "Nursing" to see where she would go. Ross, who shares a house with Esther and Nick is already planning fund raisers for her. The invitation came as a result of her National Honor Society status, I don't think she knows who nominated her, but they're pretty excited about it.

It's Monday

2008-10-27T22:00:00.000-07:00

Basically an uneventful weekend until Sunday evening when we went to the Music Department's talent show/fund raiser. It was a combination of the Gong show and American Idol. The judges comments were funny, and only two (maybe 3) people got gonged. There were a couple of "plants" for the benefit of the gong. It wasn't just academy kids, but people from the community and elementary school. Ted Atwood, former Heritage Singers bass or baritone? was the MC. He was very good, and he also performed, singing well while making us laugh. Then he and his wife came on as Sonny and Cher...costume, wigs, and all. They sang "I got you, Babe" in a silly yet musically "good". I think they ended up winning first prize. Anyhow, it was a fun night.

Then tonight Don and I attended our Monday night Dave Ramsey Financial Peace seminar. We missed one or two when Don was in the hospital, but we've been going quite faithfully. It is fun and we are learning a few things. We have all the CD's for the "lectures" that are entertaining yet full of advice. (They come with the class) I just wish they were DVD's. Esther is coming for Christmas, so I think we'll borrow some of the DVD's from the church so she can benefit from them while she's here. (I know she can hardly wait!!)

On a sadder note, we got the word this morning that Jere Patzer died Sunday night. I first got acquainted with Jere and Sue when Jere was in the seminary at Andrews and I was teaching at the academy there. They helped Carolyn, our Bible teacher, and me hold a Bible camp for junior high kids over a weekend. Then when we went to Upper Columbia Academy, he was the president of that conference...we were there 8 years and enjoyed knowing them and working with them there. We are so sorry for this great loss and consider ourselves fortunate that his life touched ours. Also, their son, Darin, was the accountant at BCA when Don was principal there.
If you'd like to read their journal of Jere's battle with lymphoma, you can go to: http://www.npuc.org/article.php?id=337

Something to read.

2008-10-24T09:20:00.000-07:00

Good morning (or afternoon for most of you)! I was being lazy this morning even tho I was lying in bed arguing with myself that "it's Friday and you have lots to do to be ready for Sabbath"! Oh, well, I had most of the day left...until I suddenly remembered I had a 9:00 physical therapy appointment. I rolled over and looked to see how much time I had and at first was thinking I had only 20 minutes to be there...but really had 40 minutes. Unfortunately it takes me 20 minutes to get there...maybe 15 to park in the p-lot. I was glad, cause at least I had time to "wash up". So I got ready, then couldn't find my car keys. Remembering that I had brought in groceries the last time I was out, I went to look in the car. There they were in the ignition. (not a good thing) More unfortunately...the key was turned on! I still haven't tried to figure out why since I'm not in the habit of leaving the key on when I park.

Needless to say, I called and cancelled my appointment that they promise to reschedule. The PT is REALLY helping my shoulder. They do ultrasound and massage (but no massage last time) and then various exercises and he stretches by gently pulling the humerus away from the clavicle etc. I was getting a burning/searing sensation upon reaching/stretching up high or forward. Couldn't sleep on the right side. I've had trouble with that arm for quite a while, so my new doc referred me to the PT. I am very happy with the results. Might work on my lower back next...maybe.

Well, as I mentioned, it's Friday, so gotta run. I'm enjoying reading the blogs of others, hope you will check them out, too, by scrolling to the bottom to link to them. I'm sure it's more fun if you know them, at least in some cases, but you never know until you try it, right?

Warming up!

2008-10-15T09:37:00.000-07:00

Well, it's 68 degrees at 9:37 this morning, so no heat required the past couple of days. Guess I'd better keep this short cause I want to do a little outside work while it's warm.

Don is the administrator in charge this week, and he has a meeting tonight so will be home later. Guess I'd better get lots done while there's no one here to feed and the TV is off. Don watches all his sports programs when he gets home. There's only one that annoys me except when they all hash over the same stories and don't say anything different. Mike and Mike in the Morning has always been my favorite cause they don't yell at each other...and they're funny. But that is very early in the morning, and he doesn't watch it much that since we moved to CA. I like Around the Horn ok, too. It's PTI that annoys me; mostly when they argue. Oh, and I don't like Jim Rome is Burning when he gets on his high horse. A lot of the time I like his program ok, but a lot of the time don't. But I like Hogan's Heroes best! LOL We got fed up with CSI and those programs and started recording H/H. I know, we're officially old foggies. Oh, well, it happens. TV is such a waste of time anyhow.

Well, that's it for today. At least you know we're alive and kickin'. We think of you and hope you'll come see us some time.

Are You Keepin' Up?

2008-10-13T09:38:00.000-07:00

I thought sure someone would have something to say about the DMV story! Well, this morning I had to cave in and turn on the heat. It was 58 degrees when I finally got up at 7:30 this morning. Of course, Don was already gone and left before 6:00...not sure of exact time. Guess it was too cold to watch his favorite sports program. It has been "unseasonably" cold here...naturally, we're here!

They say it is going to warm up, so as soon as the sun hits my big windows, I'm sure I'll have the heat turned off by then. I've been just layer-ing up, but just couldn't get going this morning.

Some friends from Arkansas were here yesterday...Charlie Barber's father died (the funeral we attended) and they stopped by to see us before they went home. Anyhow, Macherie (spelling not guaranteed) told me that the bay tree in the front has many uses other than cooking. One being keeping bugs out of your house. She told of a bad infestation of fleas that wouldn't give up with extermination, and throwing a lot of those leaves around took care of a swarm of fleas...and the fleas did flee.

She puts them in her pantry and never has bugs in her food (and she did previously). She even scatters a few under beds and in closets. They have a really nice scent, too (verified). But as it turns out, I'm pretty sure the tree is actually in my neighbor's yard. It was dark when I went out with her to look. So I plan to talk with my neighbor and ask if I can pick a few branches, and the seeds are on them now. I read online that the berries can be planted and will produce another tree...and you do that in the fall. They are also very good for planter growing. You just keep it trimmed.

The latest on Jairo (if you haven't heard) is that the court recently dismissed the robbery charges against him. The police tried to charge him with an armed robbery that happened near where he lived. They had some circumstantial evidence that didn't "add up" but went ahead with it anyhow. He is now finishing up "time" for probation violation (contact with police and use of drugs). He thinks he'll be out in November and wants to come "home" since his wife took off with his son and is living with a man she met on the internet. She is living in the Los Angeles area. These past 6 months (not sure of exact time) in jail with a 20-life charge hanging over his head has given Jairo "pause", and he could clearly see where his life was headed if he didn't do some serious changing. Not being able to see his son during the past several months (since Natalie left) has hit him between the eyes, too...not to mention Junior's having to see him through a window.
He is quite relieved that he doesn't have to go through a trial, because he guaranteed them that he was not going to plead guilty to something he didn't do no matter what kind of plea bargain they offered him. Please keep him and his family in your prayers.

DMV

2008-10-10T19:35:00.000-07:00

We're gradually getting auto paperwork we needed, and so yesterday I went to the DMV to finish up things to get the new plates for the Mitsubishi. Don had everything done except they had to check the vehicle number to be sure it matched. While I was doing that, Don went to get some new screws for the plate cause the old ones were stripped.

Maybe I looked like a suspicious character, cause the guy who waited on me was taking a long time looking over all the paperwork to be sure it was in order. I guess he wasn't the one who waited on Don, so it was all new to him. We had to have a letter from Vanessa and copies of her ID as the name Haugen and Bradley since she signed her Bradley name to the title that was in her Haugen name.

Meanwhile...and this is the story...there was an elderly gentleman beside me who was having difficulty getting his driver's license because his name and birthdate didn't match on the paperwork he had. As it turned out, he was born in 1919...same year as Don's dad. I could tell by the conversation that he was in a fix...both not understanding and trying to convince the lady that the documents he had should take care of things. And her trying to convince him that there wasn't anything she could do because his ID didn't match the computer. I was hoping Don would come before I finished, cause I was sure he could help the man get the proper documents. It appeared he was going to have to go to immigration to get those documents.

Well, Don finally got there, and I motioned him to come over. I told him to listen to the conversation, and eventually he began to intercede for the man. In short, he asked a few questions and discovered the guy had immigrated many years ago, and his name was misspelled and his birthdate inaccurate on several documents. The one document that had his name right didn't indicate when he was born. Then he said he had an expired passport but didn't know if he could find it. They would take that. So Don told him to go home and see if he could find it, and if not Don told him he would take him to Sacramento to immigration to get the proper documents.

Later on, I got a call from "Johnnie" and he had found his passport. So Don called him and made arrangements to pick him up this morning and take him to DMV. As it turned out, he still had to go to Social Security to get that changed so the computer would accept his info. So Don took him down to Chico and got that cared for. Don and I had a funeral to attend at 11:00, so Don took Johnnie home and then picked him up after the funeral and went back to DMV. We are happy to report that Johnnie now has his driver's license and is happy as a lark. Of course he wanted to pay Don, and of course Don refused but agreed to let him and his wife of 60 years to take us out to eat on their wedding anniversary that's coming up in a while.

California Highway Patrol

2008-10-08T11:07:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago I was killing time and exploring Chico while Noylen was taking a G.E.D. test. I thought I knew how to get to Costco, but I never knew which exit it was and had taken the wrong one previously. Once again I took the wrong one, but this time I knew how to get back on the freeway...hate those one-way streets.

Anyhow I saw a cop following me but knew I wasn't speeding, so I wasn't worried. However as soon as I signalled that I was going on the freeway he put on his lights. I still figured he had just got a call and pulled over. He pulled in behind me and told me that my license was expired...the plates. So here's the story:

Don went in to get the van registered because they were expiring in August. However, when we got the van in Florida, they wouldn't let us buy it unless his mom's name was on with him. We registered the car in Indiana, and then in Arkansas with no problem. However, California wouldn't register it without Alta Mae's signature. Don told them that that was going to be difficult to get since she was buried in North Carolina. They didn't seem sympathetic at all. So Don called the Chrysler Financial where the loan is and was told that they needed his power of attorney and her death certificate.

Well, Don couldn't find the power of attorney, I guess. So he had a friend in Arkansas go to the DMV and renew the Arkansas registration...which he did. Unfortunately that's when Don got sick and when the new registration and sticker came, he didn't get it put on the van. This was the next day after he came home from the hospital. Don always takes care of such things, and I was not aware the van was "illegal". I hadn't been driving the car cause I knew that one had expired while we were waiting for Vanessa to verify her name change cause she had signed that car over to us using her Bradley name.

Did you know you have 10 days to register your car in California after you move? How unrealistic is that? Obviously they've never unpacked MY house. Anyhow, the cop told me that it wasn't a "ticket" and that all I had to do was get it remedied and go to an officer to get a signature. However this week, I got a citation in the mail to appear Oct. 30. If I show up I have to pay $10 with a $200 bail if I don't! Guess I'll show up, meanwhile Don called Chrysler financial again and was told that all they needed was the death certificate and they'd take her name off. So that's what we're doing and hope that it comes before Oct. 30 so everything is taken care of.

On a happier note, we got a call from Esther all excited because now she can go on for her B.S.N. (N=Nursing) right there in Petoskey, and at a lower tuition rate, too...and her work will pay some of it. She's taking a couple of general ed requirements now, one being a Spanish class.

Also heard from Tandita who is doing clinicals now and really enjoying it. She's considering doing her last one this year out here. That would be nice, and I think she'd like working at this hospital. She's doing her P.T.A. (A=Assistant)

Don is back to work pretty much full time, but weary at the end of the day. He's trying to be careful not to overdo, but it's hard for a work-a-holic!

Gabriel's One Year Birthday Pics

2008-10-01T20:00:00.001-07:00

Sue's Book

2008-09-23T10:44:00.000-07:00

I'll bet some of you thought I had given up on getting my book published. Well, I will admit there have been times that I did. I do have a way to get it published, but it will cost me a little moolah. I had hoped I wouldn't have to go that route. But I am, it seems. I have several months of serious work to do to finish it, but I hope to do that this winter.

As soon as Don gets back to work, I plan to get right to work. I have made a lot of changes and additions since the first draft. One of the additions included a "reflections" section at the end of some of the later chapters. Here's where some of you come in, if you are willing. I would like you to e-mail me some of the thoughts you had along the way. . . in the beginning (pre-adoption), at the time the kids came home, when you were first aware of the challenges we were having, and any other thoughts you may have had that might round out the book. If you do this, that means you give me permission to use any of your thoughts, but I would contact you and give you the excerpt I would use pre-printing. It would be nice if you would make your comments right here...even responding to the comments of others. Just click on the "comments" at the bottom of this to see the comments of others. If you choose to use the anonymous box, sign your name at the end of your comment...unless you want to remain anonymous.

I can't tell you how much this would help me; and don't be afraid to hurt my feelings if you have/had a negative stance...that would make the book "real". I have been pretty candid in what I have already written. It has taken some courage to do that...who likes to admit their faults.

Oh, by the way, the book is written under a pseudonymn and the names have been changed to protect some who want it that way. Your input, encouragement, discouragement, enlightenment, etc. will be greatly appreciated. Also, I have changed the name to BRIARPATCH FAITH.

Don is HOME!

2008-09-21T16:31:00.000-07:00

The doctor stopped in to see Don early this afternoon just after he ate and told him he could go home later if he was not using the IV pain meds. He hadn't used any since 6:00 a.m., but he (Don) wanted to see how the lunch settled before going home. We just got home about 4:00 this afternoon. He can't drive for a week, and he can't lift over 10 pounds for 4 weeks.

Happy Birthday, Gabriel!

2008-09-21T10:40:00.000-07:00

Gabriel Eugene is one year old today, and he took 30 steps in a row. Watch out now! LOL

I wanted to post a recent picture of him, but they're all on Maria's myspace page and she hasn't e-mailed any. I'll get her to send some recent ones and I'll post them later. (I did, and it's first)

Up and walking.

2008-09-17T21:21:00.002-07:00

Don walked twice today and was getting ready to walk again when I left tonight. They didn't get him up until about 1:00 the first time, and then he's been sitting in the wheel chair the rest of the day (except, of course, when he's walking). He had a hard time getting to a sitting position on the edge of the bed, but stood up ok once he got positioned there.

Anyhow, he's doing well, but very uncomfortable and in pain from the surgery as expected. He asked me to say thanks to you for your prayers.

Surgery went well.

2008-09-17T21:21:00.001-07:00

Don had the stress test today, and was cleared to have the surgery. He has a "bundle branch"...don't ask me to explain that intelligently. Anyhow it is some place that misfires...so something else does it's work. (as much as I "got") Bottom line it's not a concern.

By the time he got back from the stress test, his surgery had been moved to 2:00...then to 4:00 (due to an emergency that came in). At about 3:45 they came down to move him (bed and all) to a different room. I told them he was about to go for the surgery, so they called to ask when...they said 5:00, so they went ahead and moved him across the hall to a private room. It is room 291 now and the number there is 530-877-9361 and ask for him by name and room number. They finally came and wheeled him down to the OR at 5:20.

The doctor came out at about 7:30 and said he did fine. The hole was pretty big (at least I thought so), and they had to make it a little bigger to get everything inside. They put mesh over the hole to repair it. So you can imagine the next few days will be worse for him. He looked pretty ashen, but was muttering at everything anyone said, so he was in his usual entertaining mode. He was back in his room about 8:30. They got him settled, and we (Noylen and me) left shortly after. I was pretty tired, so I think I'll hit the sack early.

Thank you all for your prayers, and continue to pray for a good recovery. Doc said he'd most likely be in the hospital over the weekend.

Stress Test at 8:00 am Wed

2008-09-16T21:02:00.000-07:00

Stress Test scheduled for 8:00 a.m. Wednesday and surgery at 1:00...assuming stress test gives ok results. If you want to call Don, check the previous posts for the phone number.

2:30 update

2008-09-16T14:27:00.000-07:00

I just came home for a bit, and I thought I'd give you the latest up-to-date report on Don. They are still concerned about that irregularity they saw on the heart monitor, so today they plan to do either a ECG or a stress test or both. They want to know everything is ok for them to do the surgery. If all that is good, they will do the surgery at 1:00 Wednesday.

He is looking and feeling much better today and has grown accustomed to the tube down his nose...it isn't bothering him like it was last night. He is not having any pain. If you want to call him, he could talk ok now. At this moment, however the phone is not within reach, but when I get back later this afternoon, I'll be sure it is when I leave for the night. (See previous post for #)

They also told him he could be pre-diabetic, and they are monitoring that as well.

Latest

2008-09-15T21:50:00.000-07:00

The good news regarding Don is...it's fixable. The bad news is that he has a tube down his nose and into his stomach that is driving him crazy, and it has to stay there until they do the surgery. They are getting him hydrated, etc. and so aren't promising the surgery will be tomorrow, but they hope so. If not, then on Wednesday. The CT leaves them with some question regarding location, so they have to open him up and figure out where the problem is...but the CT for sure shows a hernia and the bowel is sticking out where it shouldn't.

He is at Feather River Hospital in Paradise, CA; room 272B. He has a phone, but he will not be anxious to talk on it before the surgery...and who knows how long afterwards... but the phone # is: 530-877-9361. You can ask for him by name and room number. Remember we are two or three hours behind most of you, and calling will be allowed from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Our cell phones don't work in the room...or just about anywhere else in the hospital.

Surgery pending.

2008-09-15T17:04:00.000-07:00

The verdict after a CT (scan) is that Don has a hernia/blockage in the bowel so only a small amount is getting through. He hasn't talked to the surgeon yet, but surgery to fix it is the next step...probably tomorrow (Tuesday). They will have to open him up to do the job...not laproscopic. The tests also revealed something askew with the liver, but that might be due to 10 days of the heaves...they'll find out what's going on there, too.

I just got home and will eat, rest an hour, and then go back. I'm hoping the surgeon will make his decision about timing by that time. TTYL

Don

2008-09-15T10:27:00.001-07:00

Don is being admitted to the hospital. Maybe now they'll get to the root of the problem.

Don back in ER

2008-09-15T09:35:00.000-07:00

I will give a report when I know something. The title is all I know at this time.

Baby Adrian is GROWING!

2008-09-14T13:36:00.001-07:00

Adrian is growing so fast, it seems like just a few weeks that he was struggling to stay alive. How blessed we are...how thankful. He's 5 months now. His big brother, Carter, is a proud, helpful brother, too. Aren't they both cute?

Happy Sabbath!

2008-09-12T18:47:00.000-07:00

Don got worse after getting better, but he's better again!! He's hoping to make it through the night tonight without losing his jello, broth, and gatorade. If he does, it will be the first night without losing all. If he makes it through the night, he'll go to church tomorrow. He slept very well last night after the 2:00 incident and, though weak, is feeling pretty good.

I'm glad to see a few of you brave souls are leaving comments now. It's not so hard after a couple of tries. I looked at the GR-FR blog, and it said Dena and Hank were signed in, but I couldn't see any blog for them???

This week's progress included clearing out the study so you can see the floor now...it's free of the boxes that were stuffed in there. The shelves are helter skelter, but that's not on my priority list. I'll get a picture out one of these days.

More House pictures.

2008-09-10T19:30:00.000-07:00

Moving Day!
From the bedroom door

From the door to the deck.

Thought you might like to see the progress...slow that it is!

Tonight Don is home.

2008-09-09T20:27:00.000-07:00

Well, the final diagnosis after nearly 11 hours at the ER is he has gastroenteritis/ileus (or ileitis...bad ER penmanship)

He has to eat like a rabbit ("sip constantly")but only clear liquids (including gatorade) and jello now. He has instructions to see a doctor within 24-48 hours for follow up, and interestingly enough, the Dr. name they gave him is the same one he tried to get in to see on Monday and was told it would be in October. We'll see what happens in the morning when he calls. We're not worried, tho, cause the lady (who is a doctor's wife) that told him to go the ER told him not to worry, they'd see that he gets a Dr. Also, there are several physicians on the board, etc.

Other than this, all the tests they took had good results. He'll still do the stress test, tho. (that's me talking!)

This Morning...

2008-09-09T09:14:00.000-07:00

It seems nobody is taking new patients until October or so! Don spent the day Monday at home, eating a few...very few...things to see if he could hold them down. In the night they came up, so he went to "work" to await a time when offices open. While there, he ran into a friend who called him later from the grocery store where she ran into a doctor she knew. He told her to tell Don to go to the ER because if he went to a doctor it would take 2 or 3 days for the results of the tests to get back to them...and the ER would get the results in a few hours. So he is at the ER, and I'll be going down to join him shortly.

Stay tuned!

Sue's Siblings at a Family Reunion

2008-09-04T01:20:00.000-07:00

The top picture includes my sisters-in-law

The next picture is of my two sisters, Eleanor and Carolyn and me. Below my brothers and one cousin are in the back; L to R are Hank, Harry, cousin Dean, Jim, Burge and of course, me. My oldest brother, Bob was not able to make it. The older we get the more precious these reunions are, and the faster the time flies.

Old Dog Learns New Tricks

2008-06-07T16:22:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the Perkins' Family Tidbit Trail. So this is blogging!?? Hope you like it; hope I like it; hope Don likes it!

The current tidbit of info is that the Perkins are about to hit the trail. Westward Ho! Destination, Paradise...California, that is. Don's position here at Ozark has been eliminated and the only place we could find that wanted him as their Business Manager was in Paradise. It actually is a nice place, and I think we will enjoy it...except for the moving part. Well, that's all for now, let's see if this works!