goreinspirations

2011-04-22T09:48:00.003-05:00

LIFE CHANGES

So much has happened. Gene passed December 7, 2011. It was a very difficult time for all of us. Gene and I prayed through absolutely every decision we made. I followed his lead. I know now it was his time.

The kids and I are bonding very tightly. I believe God has put me as head over them and I take that role very seriously. I plan to continue bringing them up under God's authority, and do not believe anyone else has authority over us as a family, only our heavenly Father.

Many people would like to jump in and run our lives, but that would only lead to chaos. I know God is quite capable to lead me and we as a family will learn and grow together. Hiram has joined us as part of our family which makes five at times:)

I have some amazing support people in my life that are helping me through this difficult time. They love me no matter what and they are gently helping me by listening and supporting me with their love. God has circled me with love. I think you seek out the company as you would choose to live...and I have found some like minded people.

I serve, love and live under the authority of an amazing God!

2010-01-10T06:54:00.002-05:00

Hello!

It has been a while since I have posted. I have been on Facebook, having fun....and doing a lot of interesting things.

Mostly, being with family. We helped Dawson move into his dorm last Wednesday. He seems to like it. His dorm connects to the cafeteria, so he does not have to leave the building to go eat! He has a suite with three other guys, and they all play football. The suite has two showers and sinks. The gym is next door and a lot of his classes are across the street.

He is doing an independent study with his Professor. They will be studying fish. I am anxious to hear all about that.

Chase is doing well in 6th grade, really well (totally independent of mom and dad's help) and Rachel is trying her best in 3rd grade. Seems like 3rd and 4th grade can be turning points for any child, so we are trying to get Rachel on a good foot academically.

I was sworn on to the School Board last Thursday and we started our first organization meeting for building the new Middle and Elementary Schools. I am on the new buildings committee, along with the board president and some other people.

Gene's health is great. He is going through some health care to build up his immune system and detoxify his body. This will give him the best shot he can have to prevent a recurrence.

Well that is it for now!!!

2009-09-08T20:47:00.001-05:00

Pray for Rachel

Rachel is having breating issues. She has asthma symptoms. She is really struggling right now.

Please pray for her.

2009-08-19T21:16:00.004-05:00

Do you know what this is?

A Popped football! The strings started to unravel

and then pop! Chase was at the Varsity football practice

when this happened. He took a picture

and sent it to my phone.

I did not know what it was

until I sent it to my computer and opened it up.

2009-08-07T18:56:00.002-05:00

SUMMERMANIA

We have been sooo on the go. We traveled for 12 days. We left a day early, kind of a last minute decision. That worked out good for us, as when people know we are leaving, we get a lot of distractions.

Anyways, we went to:

Gettysburg two days

Hershey Pennsylvania one day

Washington DC two days

then Amelia Island, Florida

It was a great vacation. Half was touring and educational, and half was recreation/convention.

I will post pics soon.

2009-07-23T20:56:00.000-05:00

ALWAYS UP TO A POSE!

MY RACH.....

2009-07-10T20:22:00.004-05:00

Our vacation

We are planning our summer vacation. I will not say when it will be, as that could bring someone to my house that I don't want there. There will be someone attending to our house, so don't bother.

We have been planning this kind of trip in the US for a while. We will tour hard for four days straight. Then we will go to Florida and chill in the sun on the beach. I can't wait to share some of the details of this trip.

While we travel, I will attend a board meeting of an association we belong to. I was recently asked to serve on this board and I accepted. I was on the board in 1997 when Tyler was killed. I had to leave the board, because I had Chase later that year, and he needed me. I was the only woman on the board at that time. Now there are two women, one being me, and twenty men!

When we had Tyler's funeral, the people in the Association flooded us with gifts and donations. We received huge baskets of food, gifts, and money. We donated a lot of the money back to our church to buy furniture for our children's wing.

I feel it is time to give back to our Association. They have helped us tremendiously with our business. Gene supports me in this, and encouraged me to accept. I would not do this without his support.

Since I have a board meeting, one afternoon of our vacation I will be in a session with the other board members. Yes, on the Ocean, while my family is enjoying the beach, I will be inside making decisions. I actually thought about asking them if I could skip just this one meeting, but don't have the nerve.

This will be a dream trip and I will share lots of pics when I get back.

2009-06-26T07:59:00.002-05:00

OUR SOAK CITY DAY

2009-06-22T21:19:00.002-05:00

Dawson's 19th Birthday, on the 19th!

We went to a Japanese Steak House and enjoyed a great meal. The particular chef we had was a great cook. He was a lot of fun as well.

CHOP CHOP

Showing who's boss......for now........

Far left: Rachel, then Hiram (cousin to Daws), Cody (friend...and Div. I baseball pitcher) then Dawson. Cody and Dawson have recently reunited. Cody is healing from a cracked rib and can not return to baseball until the doc figures out why it won't heal. We lost contact with him for about two years because he was so busy traveling with baseball and his college classes.

Clean-up after a cake fight, which Dawson started.

It was a fun night. After the meal we came back and swam. Then later watched a movie. I think Dawson had a great time.

Ross, a friend of Hiram and Dawson showed up later. Ross and Hiram are such loyal and caring friends to Dawson.

19 only comes once!

2009-06-15T21:34:00.003-05:00

HEALTHY EATING

I have come to realize the value of eating fruits and vegetables.

I prefer to cook most of my food, because I can select the right combination of foods to feed my family. I can steam veggies, and cut up fresh fruit.

Tonight we had ribs (which had most of the fat grilled off of them), watermelon, steamed broccoli and buttered noodles (I had to throw in something that would appeal to everyone).

I can tell when I eat right. My digestion is normal, and I overall feel healthier.

After eating just one bad meal, I not only feel guilty, I feel sluggish.

Sunday I had the worst meal ever. We ate in a restaurant. I ordered Roast Beef. It was processed. Yuck!!! I expected to get some slow cooked roast beef. Then it came with potatoes and stuffing. I also ate a piece of bread.

The only veggie that came with the meal was peas. Those were good, but the rest of the meal was basically simple sugars. White bread roll, white bread stuffing, and potatoes.

I have to be more careful with my selections.

Veggies, fruit, lean meats. When I eat those, I feel great! And if I care about my family, which I do, I will continue to make healthy meals the best I can!

2009-06-08T21:05:00.002-05:00

WORLD'S GREATEST DAD

THANKS TO DAD, THESE BALLOONS MADE IT HOME FROM A GRADUATION PARTY. RACHEL WAS WELL PLEASED.

ONLY A DAD WHO TOTALLY LOVES HIS CHILDREN WOULD DO SOME OF THE THINGS HE DOES.

GENE IS A DEDICATED FATHER. HE SPENDS MOST OF HIS FREE TIME WITH HIS KIDS (AND ME). THEY COME FIRST.

HE DOES NOT PASS OFF THE RESPONSIBILITY OF RAISING THEM ONTO OTHER PEOPLE.

GENE AND I OCCASIONALLY GO OUT WITHOUT THEM, BUT WE REALLY PREFER SPENDING OUR FREE TIME WITH THEM (AND YES, SOMETIMES THEY DRIVE US CRAZY!)

UPDATE ON GENE:

TODAY WE GOT GREAT NEWS. THE PULMONARY SPECIALIST SHOWED US HIS CAT SCAN TAKEN AT 11AM IN COMPARISON WITH HIS LAST TWO AND HIS NODULES ARE CALCIFYING WHICH IS GREAT NEWS! HE BELIEVES GENE HAD A FUNGUS INFECTION BACK IN NOVEMBER, AND THE NODULES AND ENLARGED LYMPH NODE IS A RESULT OF THAT.

HE WILL FOLLOW UP UNTIL THEY ALL ARE CALCIFIED OR NOT CHANGED IN TWO YEARS.

THE NEWS DOESN'T GET ANY BETTER. GOD IS AMAZING!

I HAD SUCH A PEACE IN CHURCH SUNDAY. PASTOR GUY WAS PREACHING ON THE LEPER THAT WAS HEALED AFTER BEING SUBMERGED SEVEN TIMES IN WATER. IT WASN'T UNTIL AFTER THE SEVENTH TIME HE WAS CURED. WHEN HE SAID THE WORD CURED, I HAD THE MOST AWESOME PEACE GO THROUGH ME FROM THE TOP OF MY HEAD THROUGH MY TOES. I KNEW IT WAS THE HOLY SPIRIT SENDING A CONFIRMATION THROUGH ME. I BELIEVED TODAY WOULD BRING GOOD NEWS, AND IT DID! I ALSO NOW KNOW, NO MATTER WHAT, I WILL BE OK.

AFTER THE APPOINTMENT TODAY, WE WERE PULLING OUT OF THE PARKING LOT AND DISCOVERED WE HAD A FLAT TIRE, SO GENE AND I GOT TO CHANGE THE TIRE IN ANOTHER PARKING LOT WE PULLED INTO IN DOWNTOWN CLEVELAND. WHAT AN EXPERIENCE. I GOT A LITTLE CONCERNED WHEN HE STARTED READING THE DIRECTIONS THAT WERE IN WITH THE JACK ON HOW TO CHANGE THE TIRE. IT WAS SO STRANGE THE WAY YOU HAD TO DROP THE TIRE DOWN FROM UNDERNEATH THE CAR.

2009-06-06T19:56:00.002-05:00

OUR FIRST HARVEST!

While I was lounging in the sun on the pool deck, Rachel showed up with some of our first radishes!

Gene and I have been working so hard, I really needed to take an hour break in the sun. It refreshed me!

Of course Rach she was more than willing to pose.

The garden has bee a great family project. We are learning to work together as a family, and the rewards are so tangible.

I am so blessed to have my family. I had great parents that showed the importance of family. I have a husband who works hard to provide for us and puts his family first.

WOW, I am blessed.

On a more serious side, pray that Gene's CAT of his chest comes out normal. We go Monday and will get the results right away. I will update on my blog. I pray for him every day. I can't imagine life without him. It keeps me humble and things in perspective. We are here for a short time and just passing though.....

2009-06-04T19:33:00.003-05:00

HAVE YOU EVER?......

Sat back and waited for the next available lane at a drive through? Either way, I am restless...if I commit to one lane, the other one will open up first. If I wait, I feel guilty if someone else pulls in and tries to move into a lane and I cut them off.

Anyways, today I waited and guess which one opened up first? I will tell you later. Not that it matters.

When I drove up and opened the carrier, I realized my rather large envelope would not fit, so I had to park and walk into the bank.

Ha ha ha......

2009-05-23T20:27:00.003-05:00

GOOD GRIEF

Thanks so much to those who compassionately posted on my previous post. It meant a lot to me!

Grieving is a part of life. The recent death of Shasta taught us a lot. We as a family had many questions and stages we went through. The grief stages that follow are not by the book, but what we experienced. (By the way, books are just books written by other imperfect people!!!)

First, we had extreme sadness and despair. That is the shock stage. It takes all you have to understand the death is real, and get your mind to understand the event really occurred.

Then, some guilt set in. Chase asked if he watered her enough. Funny that he would ask because I asked the vet the same question. The vet said that had nothing to do with her kidney failure. We took good care of her and Chase and I settled that quickly. I explained that guilt is a part of death. It is a natural emotion and you have to try to work through that part of grieving as quickly as possible.

One of the things I expected to happen was questions of where she went. I figured it would come from Rachel or Chase, but while we were burying her Dawson asked if dogs go to heaven. I told him from what I know, the scriptures are not clear on that, but at the second coming Jesus will arrive on a white horse. Then when the new heaven and the new earth are here, the lion will lay with the lamb in peace. So animals are mentioned.

Chase then asked if dogs have souls. I told him no. I thought that was a well thought out questions. Both Dawson's and Chase's questions were so "them".

People make up stories about heaven that have no biblical substance to make themselves feel better. Some people believe everyone goes there....sad, and not true, at least according to the bible.

Then we had the "Why Shasta was so special" stage or the "Remember when" stage. We discussed our favorite memories of her. I was with her the last day of her life, and she really enjoyed being outside, and I shared her day with the kids, and they enjoyed hearing how she rolled in the grass for five minutes straight and sat in the sun.

The day after her death, the reality had set in, and Chase commented that he was accepting she was gone, and it was getting a little easier.

Shasta's death taught us as a family so much. Unfortunately, there are children who learn it young some too young....like those who lose parents.....

Good grief. It is a part of life.

2009-05-21T20:56:00.002-05:00

GOOD-BYE SHASTA

The past week or so Shasta has been a little down and out. About 6 months ago we noticed something that looked like a tumor on her underside.

Well the past two days she would not eat at all or drink much. She was dehydrating.

I took her to the vet. I took the picture below waiting to see the vet. Now I am glad I did.

I bought Shasta at Kenton eight months after Tyler's death and a month before Chase was born. Chase has always known Shasta. They grew up together.

Shasta has NEVER been unkind to anyone. She truly is the sweetest dog ever.

Well the VET did bloodwork and took an XRay. Her one kidney was 75 percent gone and he could not see the other one. She probably had kidney disease and it had gradually become worse.

She would not survive surgery and her kidneys were hardly functioning at all. We decided to put her down.

I cried and cried at the VET. I couldn't believe how hard this was. I loved her. Today was a very hard day for us. I called Gene and Dawson and they talked to the kids and we decided not to bring her home to say goodbye before putting her down because it would be too hard.

The kids were with Gene. I brought Shasta home in a box. I set up the golf cart in a way that the kids could grieve.

Rachel and Chase cried hard. Chase opened the box right away and felt her. Then Rachel and I did the same.

Gene said the cart looked like a Hearst.

Sorry this blog is so dramatic, that was my day. I set this up to help the kids grieve.

We buried her. We plan to put a stone at her grave.

Rachel cried hard, but Chase's grief lingers. He is so tenderhearted.

Good-bye Shasta our family friend. We will always remember and love you.

2009-05-04T05:14:00.002-05:00

sneak
peak
at a
future
performance

This is Olivia and Rachel (in that order). We had picture day yesterday.

They will perform their ballet dance in one recital and Rachel will do her Hip Hop dance in another one. Her Hip Hop costume is so neat.....and their dance is very creative.

This will be her first shot at performing in front of an audience, other than singing a special in church. That will be a good experience for her, though it is somewhat frightening the first time.

It will be fun to watch...and she enjoys both dance classes.

It keeps her rounded as she is around males most of the time and has a rough side.

2009-04-15T20:08:00.002-05:00

YOUTH SERVICE EVENT

Tonight we (for lack of better words) engaged the youth to help pick up sticks. We had 11 show up. We had a devotional on "serving" prior and then headed out and cleaned up the church property.

I think they had fun.

During the devotional, I read scripture and explained to have a servant's heart, sometimes you have to put others above yourself. I told them whatever they do, whether athletics (cleaning up and putting things away after practice), helping their parents, being a friend or whatever type of service they do, they should do it with a servant's heart. If they help their parents at home, they help bring order into their family.

Three men also helped out, one being my hubby, a youth leader and our nephew, (he is on the buildings and grounds committee).

It was a pleasurable event, really!!!!

2009-04-14T08:18:00.004-05:00

BAPTISM

Rachel accepted Jesus while we were on vacation in Wyoming. We were driving around and I read the scripture in Revelations that says;

(The dead are judged)

"Then I saw a great white throne and him who was seated on it. Earth and sky fled from his presence, and there was no place for them.

And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of life. The dead were judged according to what they had done as recorded in the books." (Rachel stopped me at that point and asked, "Mom is my name in the book of life?" I asked her if she thought it was, and she said "NO!" At that time we discussed that if you receive Jesus as your Savior, your name will be written in the book of life. I asked her if she wanted to accept Jesus and she said, "Yes" and we prayed together.

Here is the rest of the verses:

"The sea gave up the dead that were in it, and death and Hades gave up the dead that were in them, and each person was judged according to what he had done. Then death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. the lake of fire is the second death. If anyone's name as not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire."

Rachel tells people about her experience, and the other day she told me that she used to lie, and now she can't lie anymore since she prayed and her name is in the book of life. I told her dad and he said she is ready to be baptized.

The next Sunday her dad walked her up to pray with Pastor Guy (I was playing the organ with tears in my eyes, could hardly see to play), and she will soon be baptized. She was welcomed into the church by many people after service.

Rachel's baptism will really mean something to her, and I believe it will be life changing. I am hoping she can get baptized in a river that goes through some land we own. I would invite anyone who would come, and believe this would be a moving experience.

Anyways, this morning I read a devotional on baptism, based on scripture:

Baptism does not cleanse us from sin. Rather, it is symbolic of our vicarious death, burial, and resurrection with Christ and should remind us of the holiness and newness of life to which we are called.

Baptism does not guarantee victorious Christian living. The power of God’s grace is required for daily victory.

The latter is the application of the changed life and how it is accomplished. We must lean on God for His power in our lives.

2009-04-09T05:36:00.003-05:00

Lead by Example

One of the hardest parts of leadership for me is living what I believe. I think it is wrong to ask others to live up to a standard you do not apply yourself.

Let's talk about parenting. If you want your kids to use English correctly, speak it that way. If you do not want your kids to use cuss words, don't cuss!

To prepare them in relationships, set a loving example of your marriage in front of them (from the heart of course). Your children will see how a marriage is supposed to work from you! If you argue, work it out. That will happen to them too.

As far a work ethic, give 110 percent in all you do. Always do your best.

Poor work ethic has contributed to the decline and condition of our economy and country. Until people accept they should have to work for everything they get, our country will continue to decline. Hand-outs from the Government need to stop or become very short term for a crises only. The churches used to help people in need, and now people are dependent on hand-outs from the Government! Just want the adversary wants!

Our church voted last night to start a garden on the back lot of the property. We are going to invite the community to be involved. This will be an outreach. If we have a good season, think of how much we could give to people in need, and share Jesus in the process.

I teach bible studies. Because I teach, I will be held to a higher level of accountability at judgement. I am responsible to teach the Word of God accurately. I should live my life in a way that mirrors God. I should conduct my life in a manner that lives up to His word.

All of this should be done from my heart. I should live by example in my work, as a parent, spouse and a teacher. If not, my words may hit deaf ears.....

2009-04-02T20:54:00.002-05:00

TIME FLIES!

I looked at the date of my last post and a week has gone by. I don't know how some peope post on their blogs daily. Wow!

Anyways, the next song I plan to sing at church is found here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TRKaFu-Tbqs&feature=related

I hope to do this for Easter. Krista is going to play the guitar. I love this song. I have some work to do. I can't sing like Glenn Kaiser (talent plus he is a man of course) but I will give it my best and sing from my heart.

It is for Him, that is my God, my Lord...and that is what really matters.

2009-03-27T06:54:00.003-05:00

A STACK OF PLAYDOUGH PANCAKES

I forgot how much fun playdough can be. We stopped at CVS and picked up two four packs for Rachel to take to school. She has Free Friday today and she is allowed to bring something from home to play with. It is a special day for those who do not have any discipline reminders, which she does not, so we are making it fun!

2009-03-24T21:08:00.002-05:00

Why do people who claim

to be Christians Fail?

I will use my life as an example. I accepted Jesus at age 27. I was raised in a church where I heard of Jesus's death and resurrection, but it was more like a historical event. After playing volleyball with a Pastor's wife, I learned there was so much more than that. Karen (my volleyball companion) loved me regardless of my drinking and other things I was doing. The love in her heart and her love for God drew me to accept Jesus as MY personal Savior. I now have a personal relationship with God through His Son.

I did not change over night. It actually took months for my mind and heart to understand my lifestyle was not good for me nor was it pleasing to God. I changed one thing at a time and am still a work in progress. My prior desires dropped off and God replaced my habits with better things. He replaced my old friends with new relationships that cultivated my into more of who He wants me to be.

That leads to this: I still fail. There is no way I will ever go through a day sinless. That is where Christians fail others. They are still imperfect, but forgiven.

I received an anonymous comment from someone who is very upset with the way one Christian (or so called) treats someone else. Let me say this, some people hide behind titles. I don't know why anyone would want to call themselves a Christian when they know deep down they are not, but people do.

My response to the comment was this: There are a lot of counterfeits in anything in life, especially religion. That does not make all parties guilty of faking it, and regardless, anyone can fall into sin. The real test of someone's heart (being right with God) is the love in their heart, and the fruit they have...peace, patience, kindness, gentleness, self control (tough one), etc. Keep in mind, that doesn't mean they will be perfect and flawless, just forgiven and should be progressing to a likeness of God.

Some people, after accepting Jesus, choose not to grow in their spiritual walks. I don't understand that. I have no peace unless I am growing in my knowledge and relationship with God.

If you choose to comment on this topic, love me in the process....and email me if you want to vent any past experiences. My ears are open to listen.

2009-03-23T20:39:00.002-05:00

FUN AT BRISTOL

NASCAR RACE

The four of us attended the races at Bristol Tennessee this past weekend. Her are a few shots I took with my cellphone. Dawson found out at the last minute he had football practices through the weekend (spring ball) and could not go. He has been going with his dad since he was 7, so this was a big change. Dad, mom and the other two had a great time.

The weather was in the mid to upper 60's and sunny. We were in t-shirts and sunscreen.

I love traveling in the motor home. We have so many great memories going down the road. We are going to Florida this summer and may also park it at a local campground to spend a few weekends there hanging out.

2009-03-19T11:52:00.005-05:00

think about your purpose

This is a ministry "purpose" statement I read written by someone else (this is not word for word):

"Our ministry exists to lead people into God's presence, empower their spiritual walk and usher souls into the Kingdom."

Many people walk around in life without a personal purpose statement, and never reach any kind of direction or passion about where they are headed.

If you want to discover your purpose, think of the end of your life and work back from there. Ask your self these questions:

How do I want to be remembered?
What accomplishments did I make that give a lasting statement?
(This sounds a little strange, but...) What statement would I put on my tombstone if I could select something that honestly reflected my life and how others viewed it?

This could lead into thoughts of how you really want to live out your life. that would help you establish a plan, goals, and life with purpose.

I have written a purpose statement a few times in my life. I have a Blogger purpose statement at the top of my blog. This particular statement does not incorporate all aspects of my life.

I will share my statement at another time.....I have to dig it up and write it out correctly.

Do you have one?

2009-03-11T21:50:00.002-05:00

kids and talent

Chaseman started guitar lessons (back up) tonight. He seems motivated. His teacher came to school and invited him up in front of the class to play a few things. He liked that. It was an electric guitar. His is not electric, but I told him if he invests time in practicing, I would consider getting him one (his teacher told me it is kind of a guy thing). I already have the amp that I use with my keyboard.

Next week Rachel starts voice lessons at the same time as Chase's guitar lesson. That will be so convenient. I try to group things so I run less. I am thinking about some piano lessons for me too. I play the organ, but have always wanted to advance my talent.

It will be interesting to see if their talent takes off. Maybe some day they will sing and play the guitar in church. Rachel sang a couple of weeks ago while I played the keyboard. Many people came up to me after the service and said they enjoyed hearing from her. She sang, "Alleluia". She has a sweet voice. I told her she was singing it to God not the people.

talent....talent.....it is a mystery unless you dig down inside and discover what you have!

2009-03-10T18:32:00.003-05:00

dumpster

wheels

I parked next to this truck while picking Rachel up from dance. I got out and while walking by the truck I looked and...YUCK! You would not believe all the trash and garbage in the back of this truck. There were even old dinner rolls!

On another note, WE GOT GREAT NEWS! Gene's nodules are gone!!! There is one very small new nodules they are going to keep an eye on, but other than that he is cancer free.

How is life for you bloggers? I would love to hear from you.

2009-03-02T13:23:00.004-05:00

KARMA

Though I don't buy into the "karma" claim, I can understand where people are coming from when they claim someone has "bad" or "good" Karma. I look at it more like it is a check in my spirit (bad) or an inspiration (good) when I am in someone's presence instead of Karma.

Anyways, have you ever been in the presence of someone who just totally inspires you whenever you see them? You love being with them, around them, talking to them and learning from them.

Then...............there is the ........whoooo, I would classify it as someone who is:

haughty

blatantly and disdainfully proud.

This type of person sets out in life to prove their way is better, their kids are well above yours, their lives are just sooo together, you could never arrive where they are. The sad thing is sometimes it is just so subtle, you walk away feeling less of yourself after being in their presence. Hopefully they feel better, because they just drained the sap out of you! Sometimes they even try to imply they do everything right, and you have sin issues they don't have. Gosh!

Not good company to keep. BEWARE!!!

These people are usually insecure. Instead of comparing themselves to God, they compare with others to make themselves feel better.

You can't help them. They have to help themselves. Many never change.

Seek out those who are on fire for God and inspire you, and return the good (ha, ha) Karma!

(Please note: This blog is not based on a recent incident in my life, just an observation over time)

2009-02-28T07:59:00.004-05:00

CHANGE

Eating healthy and portion control is a journey.

I found this on another blog and really loved the way the author put it into words:

"Habits take time to form and even more time to break. Don't be so hard on yourself if you have a habit the Lord has told you to break. Be patient, be consistent, eventually you won't even notice that you're doing it right."

I agree!!! It has worked over and over in my life.

2009-02-27T06:22:00.002-05:00

GOOD REPORT

Hubby's appt. went really well. The doc completely examined him and reviewed his recent CAT scan report. He said things look good!

We still have a March 9th followup on his lungs.

When we left, Gene commented, "well I guess I get to live a little while longer". How humbling this has been for both of us. My advice to you: Don't take your life for granted.

Now, for me: I am logging everything I eat and counting calories. I have gradually learned to eat more than I need, and a food journal is making me more aware of how much!!!! I hope this helps. I also am exercising now that my feet are better. What a relief that is!

2009-02-24T07:02:00.003-05:00

DOCTOR FOLLOW-UPS

We are off to the head and neck surgeon (doctor of otolaryngology, ha say that just one time) for a follow-up today. We go every three months. We have done this for two years.

March 9th he has an appointment with the pulmonary specialist for a follow-up CAT and review all in a matter of two hours. I go with him to ALL of his appointments.

I keep believing God is not done using us as a couple. We just started teaching a couples Sunday School class, have a family to raise. I pray every day that we remain healthy and we get to enjoy life and serve together for many more years. That is how I live in peace....prayer!

I will update on this later.

2009-02-20T08:52:00.003-05:00

FRIDAYS

I usually work at the house on Fridays. I will go to the office occasionally to check things...or if I need to get something done. My preference is to work at the house. This is Bella enjoying her lazy day with me! Rachel had a play at school. She was a snowflake. She is the fourth from the left. (Suzie Snowflake is what she was!) In the picture above she was singing a solo...and adjusting her headpiece!

I fixed the lighting on the camera set-up for this one. I am learning, not a pro.

Which one is the "BIG DOG"? This was on display at World of Concrete in Las Vegas. I still have some cool pictures to display.

I am feeling the best I have felt in a long time. I believe ridding my body of candida has brought about improved health...just unbelievable. It creeps up on you where you know something is wrong...but you can't get to the bottom of it. So many diseases stem from candida. It is all over the internet, so you can read up on it.

Chase is also doing great. He is so perky, his joints don't hurt any more and he is not short and grumpy. He is a different kid.

Well, that is all for now.

2009-02-10T20:31:00.003-05:00

OUR VEGAS TRIP

This picture was taken at Hoover Dam. I scheduled the trip two weeks before we left.

We were in Vegas for 5 nights and days. We had a great time...probably the best trip there yet.

The purpose of our trip was to attend the World of Concrete.

I got more out of the convention than I expected. I thought it would be kind of gloom and doom, but what I learned was to "take advantage of the recession".

We are to look for oppor-

tunities. We got some great ideas.

We had some poured wall friends from Minnesota who stayed in the downtown area, so we went there for one night to hang out and see the sights. This is a young man who paints pictures with spray paint. It was very interesting to watch.

The downtown contains the older casinos. They are connected by a very high ceiling. In the evening, on the hour, they have music/light shows.

You have to watch the ceiling as you forward to the next picture.

See how the ceiling lights up! It was awesome, and yes, our show was KISS. I took all of these pictures with my cellphone, as I did not take my camera.

Ha....you should have heard the music.

For those who are Christians....there is a lot to do in Vegas that is safe, clean fun.....but it is not a place I would pick on the map. I prefer the solitude of the mountains.

It is where our Convention was held...and we enjoyed the trip!

I will post more pictures of the trip later. We also have some more exciting things in the works!

2009-01-31T21:29:00.001-05:00

Third Snowiest Month In Ohio History

January has been an unusually snowy month. Tonight it is blowing like crazy. We may not have church again tomorrow.

I took some pictures of Bella enjoying the snow. She loves it! She went with Dawson today to cut wood and is worn out.

Bella is our Snow Dog!

This is how Rachel makes fun of the time indoors. She kind of snorkels in the bathtub.

We are tucked in tonight enjoying the evening at home. Dawson went to a friend's house for dinner and headed back early to get off the roads.

Digging out tomorrow will be interesting!

2009-01-27T06:47:00.003-05:00

I'M BACK!

It has been a while since I blogged!

We went to Kalahari over winter break. All three kids were there, and Dawson had a couple of friends come as well, one being Nicole (love her). It was a great time.

Chase and I have been traveling to the doctor three times a week getting our immune systems clear up. He has similar symptoms (tight, sore ligaments) and is improving greatly. He runs in basketball so freely now. I feel great, really great!!!

It has been difficult blogging with life demands. I decided if I don't blog every day, that is OK. I mostly want to keep my friends and family in the loop and hopefully inspire someone along the way.

Our church is going through a transition. We do not have a pastor right now. It is a good thing for us. People are stepping up and helping out. Hearts are changing. I am so glad to be a part of all of this! One younger lady recommitted her heart to Jesus last Sunday. She said she has not been living her life as she should, and God really spoke to her through the Sunday School lesson and the sermon.

Gene and I are teaching together. That is a big step for us. I handed the ladies class over (which I had been teaching) to someone I KNOW will be faithful.

I have come to realize more now than ever that I am here to bring Glory to God, and in order to do that, I have some work to do! This life is no longer just about me (though I dive into the pit of selfishness every day in some manner), it is about serving God.

Off to another busy day! Glad I can......

2009-01-16T20:13:00.003-05:00

Busy, busy, busy!

This week was a busy week. I run a lot!

Ohio weather is brisk right now. We are tucked in avoiding sub-zero temperatures. One of our employees borrowed a "torpedo" heater. The pipes in his trailer are frozen.

I am working on my health, eating better, detoxifying my body, drinking ssoooo much water, and plan to start exercising next week. My exercise routine has been shut down with my heel inflammation, but I think I am to the point where I can exercise again (walk, run, etc).

I am looking forward to the high energy I receive from exercising.

Dawson transferred to Heidelberg College last week. He is doing well. He will play football there and I believe these coaches have more respect for the players. They seem to care about him. Time will tell.

Chase is excelling in school. He competed in school in a fifth and sixth grade Geography B. He came in fourth and was the only fifth grader who placed. I am so proud of him. He also plays basketball and does well. Some people call him Shak (or however you spell it) because he is so big.

Rachel is still in dance and is also playing basketball. She is fast, and I mean really fast.

Gene is finishing up the Fieldhouse project. The Register featured an article on the Fieldhouse, and named him as the person who built it on donated time, which he did. He is out there five days a week, volunteering.

There are over 70 kids lifting and working out in the Fieldhouse on a daily basis. Dawson is able to use it because he is a college athlete. He lifts at college, but sometimes lifts with a friend who is considering playing college football (maybe Heidelberg).

Gene set a goal of having the main lifting area of the Fieldhouse ready by the first of the year, and it happened. It is so great to stand out there and watch the kids working out. They do all kinds of routines, including speed training. I stood on the balcony (open) and watched the other day. It was quite an experience. I am so proud of my husband and all he has done. He has used a few of his employees to do the labor and he runs for parts they need all day long. He steps in and helps when they need him. He has so much drive.

As far as me, I am just keeping all the ends pulled together...practicing patience and tone. I really believe God wants me to improve my tone with my kids, husband and others. Your voice communicates a lot about what you are saying, not just your words. I am so pivotal on the health and communication of my family.

Well, that is my update. I may blog some fun pics later.

2009-01-12T20:18:00.002-05:00

Natural Medicine

Today I started treatment. First, I am going through detoxification for candida.

Candida is yeast that forms in the body for various reasons. If you want to understand more, go to the website posted on my prior blog.

I have SOOO many symptoms, some I don't care to mention. I am anxious to have improved health.

Candida disrupts the lining of the digestive tract (one of the things it does). It does other things, but can cause a lot of inflammation in the body.

My first stool today was smeared with blood. Sorry about the details, but it is what it is.

When the doctor did the treatments, he looked at hubby and I and said, "I know this seems strange, but I would not believe it either unless I had witnessed all the success I have seen...many, many people have successfully rid their bodies of candida and have greatly improved their health as a result."

I am anxious to keep going with this. I have to eat a special diet, but I can do this.

I will post on my progress.

He also worked on my vertebraes. Hubby and I looked at my xrays, and my right hip is much higher than my left hip. I could not believe what I saw. I have vertibraes in my neck and back that need aligned. I received my first treatment. Wow this is so neat to know I can improve my body with these treatments.

2009-01-11T08:06:00.004-05:00

Homeopathic Care

I have been diagnosed with planter's fascitis. I had two cortisone shots (against my better judgement) and had no success. This was the medical approach.

I went to a chiropractor Friday who does total body care. He did some adjustments to my cranial area. I don't understand everything he is doing yet, but I had immediate improvement. My right leg is 3/4 inches longer than my left leg and he is correcting that. Makes sense why my feet hurt, He is treating the inflammation naturally.

The next step is to cleanse out the candida in my body.

I will keep you all updated. This is all new to me, but I have read a lot on the web about this type of body care (wholeness).

He has a website which I have included the link:

http://www.jpheilmandc.com/

2009-01-05T23:12:00.004-05:00

Congratulations

Kurt and Elaine!!!

Micah Alan arrived at 7:00 pm today. He weighed 7 lbs. 15 oz. and was 21 inches long.

Elaine, Kurt and Noah are pictured with Rachel (this is a picture from Thanksgiving). They are playing cards as you can see. Elaine and Kurt love children, and Noah and Micah are blessed to have them as parents.

I look forward to seeing Micah.....and the rest of the family. I will wait until they are ready for company though.

Another blessing from God. Our family grows.

2009-01-03T08:19:00.001-05:00

Gecco's shedding

I caught some pictures of our female gecco removing her shed with help from the male.

They actually eat the shed! Uck!

2008-12-28T16:08:00.001-05:00

More hunting pictures.

"Dads who hunt with their kids,
don't have to hunt for their kids!"

2008-12-27T20:18:00.001-05:00

Bringing in the Harvest, Rachel, you drive!

2008-12-27T08:57:00.001-05:00

To the woods and....

Hanging out!

2008-12-24T05:15:00.003-05:00

WINTER BLISS IN OHIO

We were hit with a winter ice storm last Friday.

Wow, it was beautiful.

I stepped onto this porch, slipped and went down both steps on one foot. Amazingly, I ended up on my feet! So funny!

I am up at 5:00 to wrap a few presents for the kids and then we are off to chill and enjoy the day.

Merry Christmas Eve everyone, and remember, He became flesh to dwell among us. Emmanuel, God with us!

2008-12-22T16:26:00.006-05:00

JUST AN

ORANGE FOR

CHRISTMAS

This blog is a tribute to those who lived in a time when it was a big deal to get an orange for Christmas.

Yes, an orange, and only an orange!

There was a recent article in our local paper where a man shared what a blessing it was to get an orange for Christmas. He enjoyed every bite SO MUCH because it was something he rarely experienced.

Sunday morning, a lady shared how she was in the same situation. She said there was plenty of love in her home and just enough food to eat....but oh an orange was such a great gift. She was raised poor, very poor. They had an outhouse.

I believe her lack of material things as a child made her who she is today. She is so thankful for her childhood. I can testify she is a gentle and loving woman of God.

We must practice caution that we don't bombard our children with gifts. What are we teaching them? The best gift we can give our children is to teach them to give, to love others, and to have compassion for others.

Materialism can become a God......

What would life be like if we went back in time?

We just might slow down, laugh more, reflect more, and buy less....

Could your Christmas be wrapped in the simplicity of the true message of Jesus's birth and just an orange?

2008-12-18T05:58:00.003-05:00

GOD IS WORKING

PRAYERS ARE INTERCEDING

WE ARE BLESSED!

We received a call from the doctor's office yesterday, and Gene's nodules are getting smaller! The doctor compared the CT from last Thursday to the size of them from the PET in November and one is half the size and the other has gone down a third.

That changes everything! The doc believes it is an infection.

We can go forward with our lives. We plan to start teaching at church. We sat in and observed last week, and I thought to myself we could work as a team in the couples class, why would God take Gene?

The doctor is going to do a follow-up CAT in two months to make sure they are still getting smaller and if so will not biopsy them.

God has worked in a great way...a way that is beyond my comprehension. I think my family needed a miracle like this, as we have had so much tradegy.

Thank you God!!!

Thanks for everyone's prayers. God Bless you too.

2008-12-17T13:50:00.003-05:00

UPDATE

We went to University Hospital Monday. The specialist that met with us spent one hour asking questions as well as explaining (and showing us)what he saw on the PET and CT scans. He could not open the most recent CT we brought with us, so he could not look at that one and see if there was a change.

Gene has two nodules in his lung not on his lung. They are each about an inch in diameter.

The doctor said they are nodules, not tumors, not masses, but nodules.

If he looks at the recent CAT scan and sees that they have grown or stayed the same size, he wants to biopsy them. If they are getting smaller, that would be a very good thing because cancer does not get smaller.

FIGHTING IN THE SPIRITUAL REALM:

In the last 10 days this is the attack our home has encountered:

All of us have had the flu twice, we have nasal and chest congestion. Rachel is on a breathing machine for possible asthma, Chase has a problem ankle. My heels are being treated for heel spurs, and we took Gene to the emergency room Monday night for severe dizziness and vomiting, which turned out to be fluid in his ears.

I told God I have had enough, that He needed to intervene and change my circumstances or give me a strong dose of the Holy Spirit. I can't do this anymore! (hubby questioned how I could say this to God, because God can do whatever he wants, which I totally agree...but I told Gene that God already knows how I feel and what I am thinking, I was just being honest and having a heart to heart talk with Him)

Well, I heard His spirit say to me, "Now I can begin my work". I believe He is taking over in my life and the intercessory prayer is beginning to take effect in our home.

Thanks everyone for your prayers!

By the way, Gene has not had rib pain for two days!!! Praise God.

2008-12-14T16:55:00.003-05:00

BIG DAY

This week Gene has an appointment with a pulmonary specialist. He is feeling more pain in his rib area. They have to do something.

I am praying this is not disease progression.

Please keep us in your prayers. This is very difficult to go through. I have to keep my thoughts out of tomorrow, or I will go crazy.

I will blog as soon as I can to keep everyone updated.

Love and hugs.......

2008-12-13T07:00:00.004-05:00

Who Can God Use To Make a Difference?

Christian Athletes Can Make a Difference

With all the hype about Tim Tebow, I thought I would comment.

God can use anyone. He can display who He is through Christian Athletes. Tim Tebow has made a statement to my son who also plays college football (Division II).

Dawson told me last night that Tim travels and works the mission field with his mom and dad.

Victorious Christian young people reach other young people for Christ. People that have put their hearts and lives in God's hands, and give him the recognition he deserves when they are successful, that works! (Of course that is not the only way!)

Here is a video of Tim:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ObZMnvEIpFc

This is what his coach says about Tim:

“I’ve had some great players, and I’ve got some great players on this team,” Florida coach Urban Meyer said. “But I’ve never had one like this. Tim’s got something special inside him. I’m not talking about throwing. I’m not talking about running. I’m talking about making everyone around him better. That fourth quarter was vintage Tim Tebow.”

Let's pray that Tim allows God to continue to use him to inspire people, young and old.

2008-12-12T22:23:00.002-05:00

OUR COMPANY CHRISTMAS PARTY

We had our company Christmas Party tonight. It was so nice. The dinner selections were barbecue ribs, prime rib or chicken marsala.

The food was great, and all of our employees but one made it!

I will post pics soon.

2008-12-11T11:45:00.003-05:00

MENTAL HEALTH DAY

Hubby told me to stay at home and get the house in order. I said, "sure". He said, "we run around and do things for everyone else, why not get our own house in order"! He is right!

Already I have cleaned the frig, kitchen, cooked venison (is now slow cooking in the crockpot), emptied the trash, etc., etc.

I am going to do an estimate for a customer that just called, and then I am headed to the grocery store next for some fresh mushrooms to put in with the venison. I will pick up gift cards for our company Christmas party which is tomorrow night. Then we go to hubby's CT scan at 2:30 then Dawson comes home from college at 3 and the kids from school at 3:30.

Tonight will be delightful with everyone home.

It has been years since I have been alone in the house. Whenever the kids are at school, I am at work so I can get home when they do.

Today is different. It is a mental health day. I have talked to myself all morning.....hahahahaha ubububub

2008-12-08T12:01:00.003-05:00

SOAP

I brought a bar of soap (small white bar) back from vacation last summer. It was made with all natural products. We stayed at a spa hotel in New Mexico, and I really liked the soap, especially on my face.

As you can see, I still have the bar! I use it every day, sometimes two or three times, and I have been using this bar instead of liquid hand soap. That means it has lasted over four months.

I have come to realize that liquid soap is wasteful. I was refilling the pump container at least once a month.

I do not like using bar soap in location where many people use it (example: our main guest bathroom) but for areas where one or two people use it, I prefer bar.

I also bought two bars of soap from the lotte tree (www.thelotetree.com) and love it! I am trying their natural oil for my face as well.

Just some thoughts. Have a great day!

2008-12-05T21:30:00.003-05:00

DAY THREE

I am on day three of my cold. I still do not have plugged sinuses, yay!

I am getting used to my Neti Pot. It is quite interesting. If you use it wrong, the saline solution runs down your throat, and it feels like you are coming up from snorkeling in the ocean.

You can visit this link and see a demo: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j8sDIbRAXlg

I am not sure about the exercises though...and keep in mind, I am not a fruitcake.

I believe this is helping me recover from the symptoms of my cold much quicker. There is a guy at work that hacks all the time, and I seriously think I am going to buy him a Neti Pot. He might think I have weirded out, but if I can convince him to try it, he just might be surprised.

Has anyone else used a Neti Pot?

Oh, and by the way, I have an update on Gene. His appt. has been moved up. I will blog on that in a day or two.

I was on the phone with two different doctor's offices today, as well as radiology in Cleveland (trying to get a hard copy of his PET scan) while I was shopping at Myers. This was not by choice, it just worked out that they called me at that time.

Anyways, when I got in the checkout line, I looked down and had veggies, fruit and bread in my cart. I must have had the scare/guilt thing going on, as I loaded up on healthy stuff.

I will update soon.

2008-12-04T23:07:00.002-05:00

COLD SEASON

Well, the cold virus has spread through the house, like tag, and now I am it.

I have slept the last two afternoons. I am not sure if it is the medication, or my lowered immune system. Actually it is probably both.

I am rinsing out my nasal passages, so i am curious to see how much that helps. So far, I do not have sinus pressure, which is BIG for me. I usually get that so bad it feels like a spike is going through my head! One good thing is I usually get this just once a year, so hopefully this is it.

I am praying I will be back at em tomorrow. I have some Christmas decorating to finish and a family to take care of.

By for now.

2008-12-02T22:25:00.004-05:00

NASAL DOUCHE

(Seriously)

I am testing a process of rinsing my sinuses. I found out about this from my sister. I was telling her about Rachel and her breathing difficulties. Rachel has been doing breathing treatments for the past week. I do not want to throw in the towel and accept she has asthma, because I don't want to put her on medication and inhalers.

Anyways, you can actually rinse your sinuses, thus removing allergens, bacteria and viruses. When my sister explained the process, I told her, "It sounds kind of like a nasal douche"! She said, "yes it is"!

Well, I went to CVS and couldn't find this nasal product. I was determined to try it, so I explained what I was looking for to the pharmacist, and he said, "Oh, you are looking for a nasal douche"! I about died...he called it the same thing I did, and it was so funny.

You can read about this product at; NASAL IRRIGATION:http://www.healthegoods.com/product/nasal-irrigation-using-a-neti-pot/natural-health-articles

2008-12-02T07:03:00.002-05:00

TIME FLIES

Hubby and I were talking about how fast time goes.

I look in Rachel's eyes, and she is growing into a little young lady. She is beyond a toddler.

Chase is on the fringe of puberty. His voice is not changing yet, but he is having other signs. I am not in a hurry for this, because noticing girls comes with that.

With all we have going on, mostly with Gene's health, I have a desire to serve my Lord now more than ever. I realize I don't have much time left to make a difference.

Your priorities change when you have any thoughts of a shortened life, or you experience the death of someone close to you. You realize this life is temporary. The afterlife will never end. That brings us all to the question: Where am I headed after I die.

I know when Jesus asks me at the gates of heaven (judgement) "What have you done to get into my heaven" I will say: "I accepted you as my Savior, not just in my head but in my heart". I will enter through the gates because my name is written in the Lamb's book of life!

How about you? How will you spend your time on earth and when you die what will your answer be???

2008-11-30T06:50:00.003-05:00

OUR THANKSGIVING

This is my hubby's side of the family. If you click on the picture, it will enlargen.

I was just thinking...almost everyone in the picture is a born again Christian! God has really blessed our family.

We had a great time. Most stayed about 6-8 hours. It flew by. What a great time.

2008-11-29T08:01:00.002-05:00

Chi Products

My doctor (yes a physician) told me about Dr. Chi products. He said there is scientific data to back angiostop, which is what I ordered.

Angiostop was designed tostop angiogenesis. Angiogenesis is a physiological process involving the growth of new blood vessels from pre-existing vessels. If you can stop this process, the tumor cell dies.

This is the link: http://www.chi-health.com/

I ordered the book and the supplements, and both are due to arrive December 1.

I have come to the realization that most medical procedures take care of the disease symptoms (ex: tumor) after the problem is there. The methods used are so harsh on the body. My husband has a huge scar on his neck and missing lymph nodes in that area.

I was looking for something that has scientific data to back the products. There are so many things that claim success, and I don't want to be sold on something that won't work.

This is the first natural product I found that has data, or so I am being told.

I am looking for a way to help him on the forefront, not after the fact.

I pray that God will heal my husband and keep him here for a long time. I am well aware that ultimately it is up to God. Prayer is the most important factor in all of this, but then is God leading me to do this? Maybe so, but I won't know unless I try.

I have learned that serving God is the most important thing we can do, and our time here is short, but that is another blog topic.

2008-11-28T07:30:00.002-05:00

THANKSGIVING FUN

On Wednesday night, I came home to find Dawson and Nicole baking pies! I am so glad Daws likes to cook. Both my guys like cooking. Chase is taking an interest.

That is one of my parenting goals, to raise kids who will prepare their own food, and make it good!

We had 24 people over for Thanksgiving. They came at 2:00 and the last ones left at 10:00. It was a great day. It was potluck, so we had lots of yummy options.

Well, may God bless your weekend!

2008-11-25T07:00:00.003-05:00

Natural Alternatives

I am looking into natural products that have success rates killing cancer cells and stopping angiogenesis (allowing a tumor to attach and create a blood supply).

One product is made by Dr. Chi. I ordered the book and expect it to arrive any time. My doctor told me about it and also said there is scientific data to back the success of preventing angiogenesis.

It is nice to have a doctor that is open to all options. He is working with us to try to diagnosis what is considered a 2 cm mass on Gene's lower left lung. He had an xray yesterday and the radiologist is "hedging". He is cautiously not giving a conclusive reading to protect himself so it could go either way.

I prayed and wept to God yesterday to allow Gene and I to continue to live here and serve him.

Please pray for Gene. I will keep you posted.

By the way, pray for Rachel too. She is taking breathing treatments for congestion. I took her yesterday as well for a chest xray to rule out pneumonia.

I plan to look into natural remedies for her if they try to say she has asthma. The thought of having her on inhalers and steroids concerns me.

Sorry my blogs have been a little down lately. I am not on a mountaintop in my life right now. God is blessing me with strength, peace and a sound mind amidst all of this, really!!!

2008-11-20T07:07:00.002-05:00

TOMORROW

One of the keys to living a worry free life, is to live for today. It is OK to plan for tomorrow, but you have to get all the fun, peace and life out of today that you can get.

One of the ways I do that is by teaching at church. I taught the youth last night, and they bring so much life to the table in our discussions.

I keep trying to live each day to the fullest. I want Gene to know that he has good days to live....regardless of how many he or I have left.

Last night he went hunting and had a lot of time to think. He is concerned about his health. He said, "I just don't want to be a burden to you!" That broke my heart. I told him, "If I had health problems, what would you do?" and he proceeded to say, "I would take care of you!"

I told him he is not a burden. One of my hassles right now is CVS. When you need a prescription, it takes sooo long. The script to dry up his sinuses I took in yesterday had to be ordered. I dropped it off, went in to get it, and nobody bothered to call me and tell me it was not in stock. So...I come back today to pick it up after 12. You know, I will call first!

Please pray for my family and Gene's health to be restored. I am looking into a new product for him that is natural for him and has scientific data to show its' success rate, and will blog on that soon!

2008-11-18T22:26:00.003-05:00

GOOD ENOUGH NEWS

I threw in the "enough" because the PET scan came back relatively OK. There is no definite evidence of malignancy, but there are some nodules in the left lower lung they want to follow up on.

The doctor came in and asked if Gene has a cold. He told him yes. He said that would explain the inflammation.

We questioned this when he got the PET scan. We both asked at different times if this would show up, and the gent doing the scan said that is not what the PET scan shows. Well, he is wrong. We questioned this because the last PET scan showed he had a sinus infection, and we told him that. Dah!

Apparently these guys are trained to run the machine, but are not familiar with reading the results. You would think those things go hand in hand.

Anyways, if we were informed his cold/bronchitis would affect the scan, we could have come back another time when he was feeling better.

Now we will have a chest xray to follow up, and a visit to a pulmonary specialist as a precaution.

We are going to our family doctor tomorrow to see if he can help him get his lungs cleared up. I think he still has some kind of infection.

That is what happens when you hunt in the rain!!!

Thanks everyone for your prayers. I still have a peace about all of this and I am enjoying life to the fullest!

We had such a nice day together...

2008-11-18T07:32:00.003-05:00

LIVE FOR TODAY

Today at 2:20 pm we get the results of Gene's PET scan.

Last night when we went to bed he said his chest hurt on the left side. That plays with my mind. I thought I would not sleep well, but I did (except Rachel crawled in with us and needed medicine for her congestion and woke me up).

I have to believe he has a bad cold unless we hear different.

I will blog as soon as I can.

Pray for us.....

2008-11-15T08:14:00.002-05:00

Peace

I am doing a study with the youth on Wednesday nights at church. It is called "Knowing the Heart of Jesus" by Max Lucado. The chapter we are starting is about knowing the peace of Jesus.

That is what I am experiencing right know. Even though Gene just had this test, and we are waiting on the results, I have extreme Peace. I have not experienced this in a while...total peace!

I am riding life on God's jet not mine. What a great place to be!

2008-11-14T07:13:00.002-05:00

WAITING

Life will require waiting.

I have heard it said, "patience is exhibited in what we do while waiting".

Yesterday's scan took 2 hours and 45 minutes. At least 45 minutes or more could have been cut out if they were running on schedule.

I don't see us driving that far for any more tests...they bring in a mobile unit just like our area does. The only reason we went that far is because the doctor said he can yell at his people if he doesn't like the job they do.

Well, I would hope that these scans have a universal procedure, but then I could be wrong.

Anyways, I think the next one will be local. They left hubby laying on a table after injecting him with dye for 1 hour and 45 minutes. It should have been 30 - 60 minutes for the dye to run the course in his body.

I have been thinking a lot about Gene's health, probably too much. I have a peace knowing God loves us and is in control of our lives. I can not worry because that robs today.

Please keep praying for Gene....

2008-11-12T22:42:00.003-05:00

PET SCAN

Gene (my hubby) and I will drive to Westlake tomorrow for his PET scan. We have to wait until Tuesday for the results, because the doctor is out.

I am concerned because he has rib/chest pain. This comes and goes, so it may not be related to his past cancer history.

He lifted five 100 lb. bags of sand today, and has more pain tonight. I am wondering if he has pulled something. (By the way, he clarified he lifted them one at a time, in case I was not clear on that, ha ha!)

It is hard to never worry...but I admit I am learning to trust God more, and leave the future in His hands.

Please pray for Gene......

2008-11-10T20:40:00.002-05:00

HOLIDAY

PREPARATIONS

Saturday, while the guys were out hunting, Rachel and I cleaned the basement. We really did it up! She finished sorting the movies/video games (Chase had started this a week or so ago) as I wiped everything down. Even the aquarium got an good cleaning!

We moved the furniture around and created more room.

This morning, before Dawson headed back to college, we moved the Nordatrack into this area so I can watch TV while I work out. My work-outs were getting boring, and seemed to take forever. It went much better today, because I was occupied while I exercised.

I plan to add some free weights to this room and maybe some wall mirrors!

Anyways, I am cleaning some areas of the house for the next two weeks, then I plan to put up my Christmas decorations. I like them up early, because I enjoy them more before Christmas than after.

Are you getting ready for the Holidays? If so, what are you doing?

2008-11-08T06:21:00.003-05:00

Fitness

Does anyone have a preferred method of working out?

It seems like routine is key, and support helps a lot.

Do you do Yoga, run, treadmill, weights or something else?

I would like to hear what other people do, so go for it!

2008-11-07T07:23:00.002-05:00

HIP HOP

CLASS

My niece suggested we sign Rach up for hip hop at a dance academy where she took dance classes when she was younger.

It was a great idea! Rachel takes hip hop and ballet. We dropped Acro because each class was 45 minutes and it was too much for her in one night.

She likes ballet but loves hip hop. She is a natural in hip hop. It is so cute to watch her.

I did not know we could take pictures or I would have brought my camera. These are cell pics so next time I will have better quality pictures.

I took ballet and it helped me build good posture and a strong back and ab muscles. I told Rachel I want her to continue ballet because it is so foundational to any dance.

I am trying to keep both of the younger ones physically active this winter. Basketball is next. Chase wants to try out for a traveling team. He has a chance to make it due to his height, but his coordination is not there yet. He is about three inches taller than most kids in his class, and much larger, and very strong. He grew three inches since summer. He is 5'5" in fifth grade!

I am working out as well.....and plan to be faithful this time.

2008-11-05T22:12:00.003-05:00

GOOD DAYS, and SOME TRIALS

Well, I got the money collected from the customer who was being difficult. The check came today!

Dawson's head coach told the players if anyone needs to talk to him, they should set up meetings for next week. He must be aware there are some issues on the team. When your captains fight against each other, that is not good...plus some other things.

On campus...Dawson had an issue come up. He called me at 8:50 Tuesday morning and told me to cancel his debit card RIGHT AWAY! He said someone stole it out of his wallet. While I was calling the bank, I went online to check his account (we have a joint account, and I only check it if he needs to know something) and BAM! The thief had just made an ATM withdrawal for $200.00! Someone from the bank got on the phone and told me it had happened at 8:28am, just shortly before Dawson called.

Dawson and his teammates (I could hear them in the background) were sorting this out. Then I told him the address of the ATM machine and it was the campus address!!!

Dawson went to security and they viewed the video tape at the ATM machine. Dawson called me back with a very sad voice, and told me it was his close friend Seth he met at college this year. He said he suspected it was him, but didn't want to say unless he was sure. Seth saw Dawson punch in his PIN number when Dawson got his tattoo.

They lifted together every day and played next to each other on the field, so it will be an empty spot for Dawson, because he was kicked off the team immediately.

I don't know what drove this young man to do this, but he is in a heap of trouble.

Dawson asked him twice if he took his debit card, and he denied it. Then he pressed charges. That was a very hard thing to do. Seth then admitted it to the police.

I feel bad for Daws. This is the person he trusted and ran around with. They had a lot in common. I know he must feel the absence of his friend, but you have to do what is right.

It makes me wonder who else Seth has done this to, if he would take advantage of a friend. Such a violation.

Well, so is life. There is evil everywhere...and sometimes it is hard to discern where it is and who you can trust.

On the brighter side, Chase made the honor role with all A's and one B. I go to parent teacher conferences, so I will see how the younger two are progressing. They both get good grades, but I am sure they are not perfect in their behavior.

Chase would stress himself for perfect grades (and he could do it) if I pushed him. I told him it is not worth it. I have seen kids push themselves to be top of their class, and then not go to college. Since he is ssoooo competitive, I feel he needs chill a little.

Until later!!!

2008-11-03T06:45:00.003-05:00

Don't worry, be happy...

Our Pastor had a great message on contentment yesterday. He is right, we seek happiness, which is an emotion that comes and goes.

What we need is contentment from God. I read the footnotes in hubby's bible during service and it said: Contentment is focusing on what you are supposed to do not what you think you should have. Wow!

Paul wanted to be content in any situation. He was beaten, lacked support, didn't always have comforts that we like to have, but he continued to serve God and seek contentment in those situations.

So this is what I am supposed to do today (to serve my family):

Dawson came home from college. Football has been mentally tough on him. Physically he has done well, it is the words from the coaching staff (not all of the coaches) that beats him down. I think yesterday's sermon was a good one for Dawson, hubby and me.

Anyways, I have decided to remain content today, regardless of my agenda, which is:

I have to collect money from someone who is putting off paying us. He is playing games, and I get to deal with it, but that is part of my job.

Rachel needs to go to the doctor. She is having problems breathing...has since Friday, but it is getting worse.

Dawson heads back to college to finish his last week of football... I will see how his mindset is and encourage him.

That is just the beginning of my list, but so is life...

I will be content in any situation today. Tonight I will look back and realize I had a good day, really.

I am just glad hubby feels good. He has a PET scan next Friday and a reading on Tuesday the 18th. I will let everyone know the results. Please pray for him. Sometimes it feels like we are up against a death sentence. Ugh! I am praying that God will give us many more years together.

I promise my next blog will be more positive!!!!!

Contentment. Practice it in any given situation.

2008-10-28T21:18:00.003-05:00

OHHH BELLA!

I let Bella out for about five or ten minutes tonight, and when she came back in I noticed she was licking her paws. I looked and she had a hole in her back paw, on top, that was about one inch long and one half inch wide. At first I thought someone shot her with a b-b gun, but then I noticed a lot of flesh torn on her other paw.

We are not sure what happened, but maybe her paws got caught in a fence. We are going to look around in the daylight tomorrow to see if we can see what happened so we can fix the hazard.

I thought it could be an animal trap, but it is not trapping season, and it would probably only be one paw.

The vet told me to tape up her paws to hold the flesh together, and see how she is doing in the morning. I told her I knew whe would let me, so I would give it a try. She was so sweet and cooperative...held her paw up for me while I taped it.

You can see some of the skin torn in the close-up picture. Does anyone have an idea what may have caused this?

2008-10-25T13:15:00.006-05:00

SATURDAY MORNING MADNESS

Dawson is home from college. He is always on a mission. This is his bow hunting face.

He went to the game last night to cheer on his friends. Then he got up and went hunting with one of them and they were back for films at 9.

It is back to the woods tonight, then to our fall festival at church. On the go....

2008-10-23T18:45:00.002-05:00

GREEN

Chase had a program tonight. They made green tiedye (sp?) shirts at school and had the recycling logo put on the front. They looked real nice.

The theme of the program was recycling and taking care our planet.

I did not grow up under this "training" that the schools promote. My kids have.

It is kind of like a religion.

Though it is good training, and a good cause, I am surprised at the thrust in the public school system. You can promote a belief system like this, but not religion.

2008-10-20T19:57:00.004-05:00

TATTOOS

Are there any proven health risks to getting a tattoo? I am not aware of any. I know people that have them and got them years ago, no health issues.

Tattoos are controversial. I have thought about getting one where only my husband can see it (please don't think too much on that one, I was thinking in front of my right hip!) That tattoo would represent "Us".

I have also considered getting one on my right ring finger that would represent my commitment to God. When people ask, I could say, "I am sold out to God, and he owns me. I am his bride".

The one and only thing holding me back on the ring finger tattoo is my inner man. I feel led to do this, but not yet. I believe there are sin issues in my life that I need to work out first, one of them being my weight. I am not morbidly obese, but need to lose weight. I am not as fit as I should be, so I believe my temple is not the best testimony it should be. Overeating is defiling my temple!

There are many other ways we defile our bodies (sex outside of marriage, cutting, etc.), but it seems overeating has become "socially acceptable" and a habit in my life.

Maybe when I reach a healthy weight I will get my tattoo. Then I can spiritually and physically be the beautiful bride God intends me to be.

Remember, "Man looks at the outward appearance, but God looks at the heart". The next time you see someone with a tattoo, don't judge. They may be an onfire Christian that could blow right by you with their pure life and Godly inner man!

Or, they may be someone who needs the love of God! Look past the outer man and realize that your opinion could be wrong and you may miss a wonderful person by judging their outward appearance.

I am curious, what do you think of tattoos? Please be kind but honest.

2008-10-19T16:01:00.001-05:00

This song says a lot...

God with us!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ajczMxNu45M

2008-10-18T06:42:00.005-05:00

MOM, I GOT A TATTOO

This is the text I received while I was at the football game last night. He says it means "strength".

We are going to Findlay today, so I will see in person if this is real. Dawson is a joker, so I will have to touch it to believe it.

I don't think he is ready to get one where it will show professionally. Not knowing his career choice yet, I told him to be careful about a location that he can not conceal.

Dawson is exploring his freshman year at college. Gosh, I hope he stays on a good path. I pray for him....He is having a good time, keeps his grades up and is staying the course with football. I just keep praying for him.

2008-10-16T05:17:00.004-05:00

THE HOLY SPIRIT

I believe there are some people in my life that are seeking God. I see the Holy Spirit working around me.

There is a couple coming to town whom I knew in High School. They travel around the country ministering to people. He used to be in a band in bars, and now he serves God through his music.

I saw a friend at the football game last night. He is going to see them perform and minister at the Assembly of God Church this weekend. I told him I may go with him. I really believe this man is open to the Holy Spirit. He has been in AA for years, but I have seen him changing lately.

The Holy Spirit is moving all around me. God is blessing me in people relationships and spiritual openness like I haven't seen in a while, Sometimes we have to wait and then harvest comes.

I think our church is going through growing pains prior to a growth spurt. There have been some big events happen lately, and new people are stepping up to serve.

The Holy Spirit is working and it is exciting.

2008-10-12T18:21:00.002-05:00

PASSING......

Our FFA teacher was killed in a car accident this morning. He will be greatly missed by many. Though we as a family have not been involved in FFA, we know many who are...and will be devastated.

This will have a big impact on our Senior High School, as he was very active with the kids and ran a rather large department in the school.

I just saw him Friday night. He was working in the concession stand at the Football game. He looked up at me and said, "Hi!"

Over the next few days people will grieve Mr. Huffman. I can see the school shutting down the day of the funeral.

So sad.....

2008-10-10T08:24:00.002-05:00

WHO'S THE WINNER? THIS IS A MODELING CONTEST TO SELL EAR MUFFS!

Isn't it amazing what we will do for love!

2008-10-09T05:13:00.002-05:00

I HOPE THEY ALWAYS GET ALONG.

These two are best friends.

I am so glad they both came along in my life when they did.

God knew what we needed!

2008-10-07T22:02:00.005-05:00

TWO KIDS, REALLY

Last night I met Dawson half way between school and home to give him a few things he needed. Hiram rode along. I told them I had a pan of lasagna and pumpkin pie, and they jumped on the opportunity.

We met up at Kroger. We did a little shopping. They were ssoooo appreciative because I bought them some groceries. They both have meal plans, but get tired of cafeteria food.

Hiram has an apartment which means they have a kitchen to cook meals. We bought healthy food!!! Fresh fruit, milk, chicken, etc.

2008-10-05T18:25:00.005-05:00

ACCIDENT

Last night I headed out to pick up some Chinese food for supper. I was driving through a nearby city, when "bam" I felt someone hit the side of my truck.

A young lady cut over in my lane and hit me! It really stunned me.

We pulled over and the first thing she did was start apologizing. I was concerned she would try to say she I came over in her lane, but she admitted to she was at fault.

She looked very young and scared. I told her I understood it was an accident. I asked how old she was and she told me 19. I felt sorry for her because I knew it was probably her dad's car, which it was.She calmed down until she called her dad, whom REALLY upset her. I asked her what he said, and she said the car was his "baby".

I told her it was just a car.

Anyways, the damage to my truck seemed to be contained to the tire and rim. My tire sticks out about 3-4 inches, so I think that is the only thing that hit her car.

Her car was pretty messed up as you can see.

2008-10-02T05:42:00.004-05:00

Married 25 Years

We celebrated 25 years of marriage by going to an excellent restaurant and ordering a clam special. It was luscious!

On October 1, 1983 Gene and I were married. Yesterday was our 25th anniversary. I picked fall because I love the feel and look of the season. We went to Niagara Falls for our honeymoon.

Now, 25 years later, we are still together. I want to stay married to my husband until death. I choose to do that for a lot of reasons. The vow I made to God 25 years ago, (which equals 300 months or 7200 hours) has kept me in my marriage, because it hasn't always been peaches and cream. I stay with him because I love him. I am pleased he is the father of our children.

He is so supportive as a dad. He spent two years every day after school watching Dawson practice football his Junior and Senior year. He would park next to the practice field and watch him from his truck. Many times I would have to go to the school to see him.

He pushes the cart in Toys-R-Us at Christmas time, because he likes to help pick out the gifts. He tells our kids he is Santa, because he does not have the heart to lie to them. He is committed to always telling them the truth and teaching this moral to them.

I could go on and on. Most of all he loves me dearly and is very loyal.

I started dating my husband when in 1979 a year after I graduated (now you can figure my age). He is one year younger than me.

We married four years later.

The first four years of our marriage were a life of drinking and drugs. It was OK at first, but then the emotions set in. The neglect of each other (feelings) plus running in different directions with our friends let to a divorce.

We split up and divorced for a short time....not speaking to each other AT ALL!!!

During that time, I had a friend I played volleyball with that kept telling me about how much God loved me and wanted to have a relationship with me.

I accepted Jesus, and boom, my life changed.

My ex-husband (same guy) called me one day. He heard I had changed (accepted Jesus). We talked for four hours straight. We decided to go out on a date. It went OK. Then we went out on another date....and another. Then he decided to sign himself into the Tennison center for drug and alcohol addiction. He asked me to support him, and I did.

He rededicated his life while he was in the unit!

It was a tough road for both of us and still is at times. Getting back together was the best decision I could have made. I did it because it was the right thing to do, and I fell back in love with him.

We have endured so much, but have shared so many great memories in our marriage, which I will share in other blog...have to go!

2008-09-30T08:47:00.004-05:00

MAKING MORNINGS ORDERLY

About two weeks ago I decided my 8 and 10 year old children were old enough to get themselves ready for school without direction.

I was constantly prodding them to make their next move, all while I was getting ready for work.

I sat them down and told them they were responsible for their morning routines. I told them if they miss the bus they would have something important to them taken away (fun activities is always a good place to start).

They are doing great! On occasion they come to me for assistance, like where is this or that, or does this match, but overall they are independent of me. I have to give Rachel a notice when it is 5 minutes until bus time, because she is still learning time. Some days she heads out when she sees Chase walk out the front door (that is her cue).

This is a life skill they need. Mom will not always be there.

I have an alarm set in their rooms.

It is so much better for all of us. We enjoy our mornings more.

I was shocked when Dawson's college coach asked me if he can get himself up in the mornings, or was he going to have to stay on him. He said he does not like to do that. I told him he started getting himself up in 7th grade.

Well....I sure hope our morning routines continue!

2008-09-27T19:24:00.002-05:00

FIELDHOUSE PROJECT

We are finishing up the outside of the fieldhouse. These pics are taken of our guys installing the electric box and lines. We are trying to get the electric hooked up and inside lights installed. That way we can host an open house before our final game of the season. We have pledge cards to pass out, and hope to get some more donations.

The building will be worth well over 1 million, but we should be able to build it for about 500K due to area contractors working for reduced costs.

I will have inside pics as soon as we have more lighting.

2008-09-25T20:22:00.002-05:00

FAMILY DAY

This weekend is family time at college. I am going to visit Dawson tomorrow, and I am really looking forward to seeing his life at college.

I get to go to class with him. Then lunch, then I get to see his dorm.

We are going to go shopping. I am really looking forward to the whole experience. I will get to see Hiram too and his life there.

2008-09-24T05:51:00.004-05:00

TEACHING KIDS TO PICK UP

These are things I find all the time from Rach.

I have to remind her to pick up after herself. It does not come naturally.

Her older brother was the same way. The middle child is great...does not leave much lay around.

I think a lot has to do with the personality of the child. Some you have to remind them what to do, maybe because they have creative minds that don't stay focused as well...or it is just not as important to them.

Hubby and I had to chuckle because Daws came home from college and complained because his roommate doesn't take out the trash, and leave his side of the room a mess. That is what he did at home, but now that it is HIS room he is neater. So funny!

If we pick up after them they will not learn, so it takes more effort to go get them and make them do it. Hopefully, eventually they get it!

2008-09-22T20:25:00.002-05:00

CHARACTER:

Why is a good name rather to be chosen than great riches? (See Proverbs 22:1.) It is because a name is more than a label; it represents the character and nature of the person who has it.

Oh how we can damage our own name (character) in just one moment of rage, an impulsive comment, a not so thought out decision...an improper reaction to a situation.

The church, which is God's people, has become too much like the world. We are not separate where we stand out and either draw people to God, or make those who deny God uncomfortable. We compromise our lives to be comfortable being around others.

My prayer is that those who are in my circle, as well as myself (beginning with me of course), would live lives that attract others to a relationship with God through Jesus.

I also want to look at myself and the changes God wants in MY life, and not be focused on others. We all need to examine ourselves.

2008-09-21T20:54:00.003-05:00

SUPPORT FOR DAWS

(The gent in the front is Dawson's buddy from college, then Dawson and then dad!)

Dawson has worked with the High School Varsity team in the weight room last year and through the summer. He was there to get in shape for his fall football at Findlay. He has done a good job mentoring the younger guys.

He drives home every Friday night to support the guys on the team. He goes in the weight room, tunnels with the fans before and after the games...and visits the locker rooms. The guys love him...and tell me how much he has helped them. That blesses my heart.

Anyways, they have decided they are going to get a group and travel to Findlay to support Dawson. He has an inner team scrimmage that he may get to play for, and they will either go to that or an actual game.

He does not know, so shhhhh! Sometimes when we give, we get back, but we should never give TO receive.

He will be shocked and pleased. He needs support because it is a lot of HARD work and a big adjustment to follow the football schedule, attend classes and do homework. His football takes 4-5 hours of each day, five days a week, one day is game day and they have Mondays' off. They get two weeks a year off, and that is it.Gosh, I didn't realize the demand. I hope he stays motivated to go the course.

2008-09-19T08:41:00.003-05:00

HAIRCUT TIME!

I cut my two youngest children's hair last night.

Since I have a license to do hair, and practiced full time as a cosmetologist for 11 years, I have my own set up in our house. I have a chair that pumps, a sink, counter top and various tools.

It is such a convenience. I don't have to make appointments, and especially KEEP them! You know how that goes.

Anyways, Missy was more than willing to show off her new style. She has great hair, lots of fine hair. It highlights well in the summer sun. In my experience, she has the best type of hair to work with.

Mr. C just got a trim. He looked much improved.

I got my license right out of high school, went to work for my mom at her salon and was running the business after about a year. I bought her Salon at age 23. I knew I wanted to own a business, and that was a great opportunity for me. Thank mom and dad!!!

Anyways, through the birth of our first two kids, I worked full time, and helped my husband start up our construction business. I don't know how I did what I did except I was young and VERY energetic. My sister and my mom helped with my first two boys, so they were with family, sissy, mom or me or dad in their young years. Poor dad would work hard (and I mean HARD) all day and then have to pick up the boys and take them home, take care of them, and then wait for mom to get home (sometimes 8 or so) to help. That was usually two nights a week.

It took both of us to get financially stable at first. I knew eventually I could work part time, and started doing that when our second was 5.

I have no regrets. I have always wanted to help out my husband financially.

The second two have been easier to manage. I work less hours away from home, and have the option of working at home.

I think my kids are doing well...and God has taken care of so much for me. I have continued serving Him in all seasons of my life. He has always met our needs, but we have obeyed him in tithing.

We all have our own journey.

2008-09-17T19:33:00.000-05:00

SPEAKS FOR ITSELF!

Is that the same as Wordless Wednesday? ha ha

2008-09-16T05:40:00.004-05:00

A DOG'S LIFE

Bella has it made. I have to say she has worked for her position of queenship (yes that is a chair) in our house!

She earns respect. She is loving, intelligent, cuddles, plays, and basically will do whatever you want at the moment.

If I lay down at night or in the afternoon for a nap, she lays down too. She follows me from room to room, never letting me leave her sight. She keeps one eye on me at all times.

She guards our house.

She is so precious with the kids.

Her personality is everything I wanted.

I have some training I need to do with her, but she learns fast.

We love Bella.

2008-09-14T06:57:00.002-05:00

ONE NOT SO GREAT WAY TO END A DAY

Thursday, on the way home from a meeting, Gene's truck shook, then literally "broke down". His transfer case broke...and he was sitting off the road on a major highway. He called me to help find someone to tow him. Normally he would have one of the guys bring the drop deck trailer and load it on that, but he thought it would be too hard to load on the highway.

It took a couple of calls to tow companies, but we finally found someone to answer and come to get him.

Dave, one of our employees drove and brought Gene back.

When they got back, Dave said, "This is a change, Gene is usually coming to get me" which was so funny and true. If someone breaks down late in the day, Gene is the one who goes and gets them. That is the reason we are not really done working until everyone is back to the shop.

This truck has well over 300,000 miles on it. We keep fixing it and replacing parts. He is getting his seat repaired while it is down. It is about 2" shorter due to being worn out. He is in and out of it all day long.

He drives a heavy duty truck because he pulls trailers often. This truck has been a great truck.

Another day at work...you just never know.

2008-09-11T20:29:00.003-05:00

GRUDGES

I talked to someone today who has a 30 year grudge. Someone beat him up when he was 20, (he is now 50) and he still has hard feelings.

I guess I would be uncomfortable meeting up with my past attacker, but you would thing as adults, things change, we grow up, and acquaintance can be remedied.

Anyways, I have come across many hard hearted people lately.

I just want to live a life of peace, but that can be a challenge.

When I speak to people, especially if it is a confronting type of situation, I pray in my spirit that my speech would be covered with grace.

My dad was big on this. He was one of the kindest people ever.

Grace...cover what we say and do with grace...and live a life of peace...not creating new grudges that we have to go back and try to fix.

2008-09-10T05:47:00.002-05:00

WELL.....

Dawson has a roommate, finally. He is a quarterback from Texas. He is from a team in Texas who won state twice! His baseball team also won twice.

I hope they get along well. Daws is such an intense player...doesn't believe in slacking at all, so they should have that in common.

This kid came all the way from Texas to attend college play for Findlay. That is brave...

I talked to Hiram last night Dawson's cousin who wrestles for Findlay, and they (Daws and Hiram)are breaking down some of the segregation between the football players and the wrestlers. I didn't know that existed. Hiram is a good leader too...he works hard and was an All American wrestler last year. He is a very nice person, he has a big heart.

I hope their work ethic carries on in life...though it should.

2008-09-08T19:26:00.004-05:00

WANNA

SEE

SOMETHING

KINDA

FREAKY?

Daws and I visited another retina specialist today for a second opinion on his eye. His left pupil is still larger than his right, though it is getting better, and he said that is a good sign. He said there are a lot of people who have one pupil that is larger than the other and can't guarantee Dawson's pupil will go back to the normal size (depends on the healing of the muscles and nerves in the eye).

Well, the good news is he did not see any retina damage, so both docs agree.

My dad had a detached retina which led to blindness in one eye, so this has been a touchy situation for me.

Anyways, we found out how blessed he is and it could have been so much worse. The eye doc thinks his eyelid was open when the injury occurred, and it was a direct poke to his eyeball!

Anyways, here is a pic of his dilated eyeball...keep in mind this is exaggerated by the drops used at the office.

The doc said if the poke was straight at the center of his eyeball, and there was hemorrhaging, he would be out for the season...no football until next year. The best, his vision is great!

I keep reminding myself, God is in control.

By the way, this doctor was great. He encouraged Dawson in his field of study. He suggested some trainers at colleges that offer summer intern programs, and I think Daws is considering it, that is if he is accepted. One is in Michigan, and one in Colorado.

If he interns under a big name trainer, he could get a job in a college, or it would open up other opportunities for him after he graduates.

Well, maybe all of this happened to get us where we were today. God knows.

2008-09-05T22:52:00.003-05:00

UPDATE ON DAWS

Well, Dawson came home today and his pupil in his left eye was larger than his right eye. I called the eye doctor right away and they told me to bring him right in for an exam.

He was seen by our local eye doctor who immediately sent him to a retina specialist.

The specialist says he has some permanent damage in his eye, but his retina appears to be OK. The gel in the back of the eye pulled away and is sitting somewhere inside his eye. This will not affect his vision, but in many cases the retina pulls with the get and either tears or detaches.

He said this was a very hard impact on his eye. He personally has seen people come in where their eyes have burst.

That is serious. He is very fortunate it was not worse than it is.

I prayed in the office while he was being examined...giving God my burdens.

He is restricted from football and lifting until we get a second opinion on Monday.

His coach said they will get him a new helmet with a face shield. I plan to call him tomorrow to give him an update and make sure he understands Dawson will not be back until his helmet and face shield are there for him.

Gosh, this is all new territory for me.

2008-09-02T19:58:00.004-05:00

FOOTBALL

I got in the truck tonight to run Chase to football practice and this is what I saw...just had to get a picture.

He is ssoooo into football...and he really wants to do well. He went to practice even though he was fighting the flu (no details on that ).

Then tonight I got a call from Dawson. One of his teammates accidentally poked him in the eye. He said he could not see for about 10 minutes. I fear his cornea is scratched.

The trainer is going to look at it in the morning and see if he needs to go to an eye doc.

I told him to remove his contact. I am surprised the trainer did not tell him that..but then again, Dawson may not have told her he wears contacts.

I had to prod him to remove the contact. It is a must if you scratch your eye, especially your cornea.

I prayed for him and believe God will protect him.

2008-08-28T21:08:00.002-05:00

THE UNCERTAINTIES OF LIFE

This is serious.

Actually, I have something to share.

The past year has been an uncertain time in my life. My husband had cancer. Half of that year was spent with hubby undergoing two surgeries, chemo and radiation which brought him down for about two months. We still go to the doctor every three months. I go to every appointment with him, which has some gut wrenching moments. So uncertain. Life...

A recurrence would not be good. We have already been told that. Any CAT scan or PET scan (which he has another PET scan in November) could show a result that may turn our lives upside down again. We were told Tuesday by the nurse that as long as nothing "lights up" we will be fine. Ugh...how do you deal with THAT???

Well, I read something this morning that helped me let go of some of my worries.

Now listen, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money." Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life" You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, "If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that." As it is, you boast and brag. All such boasting is evil. Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins. James 4:13-17

"If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that."

My husband's life, my life and my children's lives are in God's hands...a good place to be. I have decided to live and enjoy the life I have and live it to the fullest each day. I am committed to making the years I have with my husband the best they can be. We have loved each other more in the past year than some people do in a lifetime.

I will live what life I have to the fullest.....

If it is the Lord's will, I will be back to blog again soon.

2008-08-24T21:28:00.003-05:00

BABY
SHOWER

I hosted a baby shower for me lovely niece today. She is the one that said she was not going to have children, and ha! Love came to town!!!

I opened my house and my sis and other niece prepared the desserts

Anyways, it was a great time...