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Morning Devotional...


Then said I: "Ah, Lord God! Behold, I cannot speak, for I am a youth." --Jeremiah 1:6

To be articulate at certain times we are compelled to fall back upon "Oh!" or "O!"--a primitive exclamatory sound that is hardly a word at all and that scarcely admits of a definition....

In theology there is no "Oh!" and this is a significant if not ominous thing. Theology seeks to reduce what may be known of God to intellectual terms, and as long as the intellect can comprehend it can find words to express itself. When God Himself appears before the mind, awesome, vast and incomprehensible, then the mind sinks into silence and the heart cries out "O Lord God!" There is the difference between theological knowledge and spiritual experience, the difference between knowing God by hearsay and knowing Him by acquaintance. And the difference is not verbal merely; it is real and serious and vital.

We Christians should watch lest we lose the "Oh!" from our hearts....

When we become too glib in prayer we are most surely talking to ourselves. When the calm listing of requests and the courteous giving of proper thanks take the place of the burdened prayer that finds utterance difficult we should beware the next step, for our direction is surely down whether we know it or not.
Dr. Tozer in Born After Midnight, pp. 86-87

"Lord, don't ever let me lose the 'Oh!' Amen."

On Seniors & Friends, Rae made the most meaningful graphic for today and I just want to share it with you again as we start a new week on this special Sunday. 


And all of Christian Photographers can say, "He is risen indeed!"

(https://www.christianphotographers.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fpahalbach.photography-cafe.com%2Fgallery%2Falbums%2Fuserpics%2FHesRisenIndeed-web.jpg&hash=194fde54a7d151941da05946764c73399bfeaa8e)

And the result of His resurrection is that He is presently King of kings and Lord of lords.  The result for each one of His followers, therefore, is that He should be the Lord of our lives.  Is He my Lord as I deal with my employer, my family, my friends, or perhaps my enemies?  When we affirm His resurrection by saying, "He is risen indeed," we are at the same instant saying, "He is my Lord indeed."  Oh may I mean it sincerely.

 





   

*Anesthesiologist Bill*

Margie received a bill from the hospital for her recent surgery, and was astonished to see a $900 fee for the anesthesiologist.

She called his office to demand an explanation. "Is this some kind of mistake?" Margie asked when she got the doctor on the phone.

"No, not at all," the doctor said calmly. "Well," said Margie, "that's awfully costly for knocking someone out."

"Not at all," replied the doctor. "I knock you out for free. The 900 dollars is for bringing you back around."

*Thanks to Pastor Tim for this joke!*
http://www.cybersalt.org/cleanlaugh

Do you know what you get when you cross anesthesia and a rabbit?  The Ether Bunny!

Our Sunday School teacher told us that yesterday.  He is 91 years old. 

What a wonderful day yesterday!  The Sunrise Service was awesome with a message of hope.  The Sunday Service and Sunday School was given and received full of love and hope.  Wonderful. 

Then the dinner at Robin, my niece's home...well, I imagine there was over 50 there.  And I didn't taste a thing that wasn't good! 

I was home by 3:30 and got comfy to enjoy TV shows. 

And isn't it great that the Captain is safe now?  Happy Easter! 

Tonight is Photo Guild.  I have a 14 year old neighbor, Hannah, that loves photography.  She called me and asked if she could go to guild with us.  Of course!

Thank you everyone for the wonderful reminders that our Christ is no longer on the cross, nor in a grave.  He is risen!







FIRST:  You need to be saved.

"For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God"
Romans 3:23

"Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God."
John 3:3b



SECOND:  You Cannot Save Yourself

"Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;"
Titus 3:5




THIRD:  Jesus Has Provided For Your Salvation.

"Who his [Jesus] own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed."
1 Peter 2:24




FOURTH:  You Must Accept Jesus For Salvation

"And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house."
Act 16:31

"But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:"
John 1:12

"That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved."
Romans 10:9




FIFTH:  Now is The Time to Accept Jesus as Your Saviour.

"behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation."
2 Corinthians 6:2


"Wherefore (as the Holy Ghost saith, To day if ye will hear his voice, Harden not your hearts, as in the provocation, in the day of temptation in the wilderness:"
Hebrews 3:7-8

Where's JANET?

Is she in Thailand?

http://www.cfrb.com/news/14/910194

Hopefully she's on her way home by now ....  :o

I saw the rioting on the news this morning and my first thought was of Janet. I do hope and pray that she is safely on her way home, or in a place where she is very safe.

Gilbert called to tell me that Sarah's (my dil's) brother in law, was in the hospital in ICU. Someone hit him in the head with a baseball bat and crushed his skull on one side. He had to have emergency surgery, and is alright for now, they said he will have some motor problems in a few weeks. This young man is  only in his early 30's and has had a few  more problems than someone his age should have. He was hit by a car 3 years ago and broke his leg, he was lucky to be alive after that accident, now this.

I don't know yet when, where or why this happened to him and we would all appreciate your prayers for Langdon. He needs a lot of prayer for  some other problems too.

Al he is in St. Josephs in Eureka.

Good Afternoon:   

Dan:  Thanks for the explanation of the napkin folding - something I did not know nor even think of.

Etta Sue:  You were sure a busy Lady yesterday.

Marilyn: I have prayed for your DIL's brother in law.

As for me I have completed the laundry and even hung a load of bed sheets on the line to dry, the smell of fresh sheets is wonderful.  My next little job will be to phone our lawn care company to have them deliver a weed pulling tool, they will be doing a lot more of the weed pulling since they are no longer allowed to use the weed killing sprays. They are encouraging the us the home owner to pull weeds as well.  Get this spraying golf courses is fine but the private homes is not.      :coffee: 

Hi everyone.  We had a very nice church service and then enjoyed the Easter dinner that Pat had prepared.  I then took Stacey back to her apartment, after having to unload the Saturn, which didn't want to start, and take the other car. 

We followed an obviously drunk driver for several miles on the Interstate who was weaving from one side of the lane to the other, sometimes going over the dividing line.  He exited where we did but then turned off shortly onto a side street.  I was relieved that he didn't cause an accident but fortunately the traffic wasn't too bad yesterday afternoon.

We had very heavy rain during the night and it continued this morning.  Over 300,000 people lost power today due to the high winds and trees falling down. We didn't have a problem here and there are no trees to fall on my house so don't have to worry about that problem.  We are suppose to get more rain tonight.

After coffee this morning I went to the home of our church organist to help her with her computer.  I worked for a couple of hours and then had to rush to get to my Monday men's lunch.

Pat, thanks for the devotional for this week.  Don, I appreciated your explanation of the folded face cloth.

Marilyn, so sorry to hear of the young man being attacked with a baseball bat. 

Paul, that was a beautiful and timely photo you posted.

To all my friends in Christian Photographers, a hello from old Papa John.  I don't know when the last time was that I was in here but here I am, still alive and kicking.

Cornelia suffered several serious heart attacks and for the last year she has been with Alive Hospice home care.  She is very weak and spends most of the time in bed and sleeps through many days.  A lady from Hospice comes three times a week to bath her.  We also have a nurse who comes and checks her over twice a week.  We have visits from a social worker and also the Chaplain from Hospice.  Cornelia has received over 400 cards and we know many who pray for her regularly.  Her mind is still good but her speech has been effected because she is so weak.  She is always on oxygen.  I know some of you have been praying for too.  Our doctor thought she wouldn't live more than six months when we started with this special care.  But the doctor doesn't know everything.

Pat, thank you for the invitation to come in and report.  Maybe I'll try to come more often.  God bless you all.

Papa John

So good to see you, Papa John ... I hope you do come in more often and let us know how things are for you and Cornelia.  I usually keep an eye on you at Seniors and Friends, but others may not go there, so they will be looking for your return here. 

Papa John:  Nice to see you.  My prayers for you and your dear Cornelia.  Hospice is a wonderful and giving service and must be so helpful to you as well.

Al:  I did walk almost an hour yesterday and uphill as well.  So, guess I am back to being a Coloradoan.  On the walk, we can see the entire range of mountains and snow is heavy although we need more for an average year. 

Yesterday, we were driving in an intersection with traffic and an elderly man holding a cardboard sign was walking much in a daze - please pray for him because he needs help so badly. 

Photo Guild was great last evening.  About 75 photos were gently critiqued.  I took a neighbor girl with me.  Hannah is 14 and loves photography.  She is home-schooled and just recently purchased a renovated Canon Rebel...other letters that I don't remember.  She said she learned some good points and some great ideas!  She wants to talk her Dad in joining Guild with her on the Family plan. 

I think Kitty and I are going to go shopping this afternoon.  I just saw Ivalou drive past...she's going somewhere!

Has everyone paid their taxes?  Tomorrow is your deadline!  The next day is too late and you will have to pay a penalty!

That's it for today!

Thanks Pat for the great messages.    He is risen!   He is risen indeed!    Praise God for the Risen Saviour!

My family and I went to Queensway Cathedral where the live Passion Play was performed.    It was amazing with a real donkey and lamb and a dove involved in the play.   When Jesus rose out of the tomb there was a loud bang and firecrackers right in the church!!

Happy anniversary!

Love Ruthie

I am still trying to get everything moved into the house from the garage so I can get them unpacked and put away, however,  some of the boxes and tubs Keith has to move for me including my china cabinet and the cupboard that I used as a pantry at the other house. He hasn't decided where to put the book case so I can unpack my books and the China cabinet doesn't have a  spot yet either.


I am very concerned about my DIL's Brother in law, we are all a pretty close family so it is like he is one of my own.  His children call me grandma too. I haven't heard anything new on his condition yet.

Good to See you Papa John.

Early this morning I went to have my foot care done then following that I headed south to Fabricland a nice store to visit but it is best to leave your money at home, I purchased 3 yards of night gown fabric and looked at a selection of window curtain fabric it was good that I did not have measurements.     Then to another store for some vitamins and on my way home I stopped at the grocery store.  Home at last and I will attempt to get the sweater I have been knitting finished.

Have a great afternoon.       

Hi everyone. 

This was a very busy day.  After coffee and walking this morning, Pat and I took the Saturn to the garage and left it to see if they could figure out why we are having problems getting it started.  They called this afternoon and said it started every time for them and the computer didn't show any codes.  This has happened to us before.  They are keeping it overnight and the mechanic said he would try to start it several times to see if he could duplicate what we are experiencing.  He did say he thinks the timing belt may need to be changed again.  I don't know whether we are going to put a lot more into this car or try to find a different one.  This has not been the most reliable car.

I had a meeting to attend this morning and then after a bite of lunch headed to the dentist.  I spent about 90 minutes in the chair and had 5 surfaces filled.  I like my new dentist as he was gentle and didn't even hurt me when he numbed the areas.  I will see an oral surgeon next week for a consultation regarding having one of my back lower teeth pulled.  Because of my medication I can't just go in an have it pulled so it will take two visits. 

On the way home I stopped at Krogers.  Needless to say I am tired tonight.

Papa John, glad to see you stop in.  Like Jane I try to keep up with you on the Senior and Friends website but glad you brought us up to date here.

Carol, I don't think I could walk very far uphill.  I do pretty good on a flat surface as long as there is a place to rest when I need to do so.

Etta Sue, my taxes were paid several weeks ago so don't have to worry about tomorrow.

Ruthie, sounds like a memorable experience at the passion play.

Marilyn, sure you will get things straightened out shortly.

Ruth, it sounds like you also had a busy day. 

My taxes have not only been filed but I've received my federal refund of $72.13!  Now I'm waiting for my state refund - a great big $7.69!  This is the last year I'll get a refund since I'm not working any more so no payroll deductions.

Larry:  Going to the dentist - I just made our appointments today.  We found a woman less than a mile from the house. 

I have been thinking about Janet and believe she is still in Thailand. 

Hi, friends, it's mighty late, but I wanted to peek in the door and join in our thankfulness for Jesus our Risen Savior's love for each one of us, and also to thank Pat for starting this site. Doesn't seem like 6 years, does it!

Y'all have a great rest of the day.

Ruth Ann

Whew!  I shot my wad yesterday!  I met Kitty at Best Buy.  I didn't buy anything there but then between Meijer's and WalMart, I got a new cordless answering machine phone with caller ID, a complete bed set for the spare bedroom, shower curtain and liner, glass and soap dish for the bath and some other small things!  But everything looks great and the new phone is charging! 

I have been looking online about transferring 8mm reels to DVD!  I am thinking that there is no way I could afford a converter to do this.  The only way of doing it at home is to project on a screen and record with a digital camcorder which I don't have.  So far I have found a place that will do it for 8 cents a foot!  I don't know how many feet of tapes that Dad has but I am thinking probably 5000 feet!!  There is 50' on the 3" reels and there are lots of reels, 3" and bigger!  It's a shame we don't do something with them.

I also purchased some yarn to crochet a baby afghan for my g-niece's little boy.  He is to make his appearance to the world near May 26 and her Baby Shower is May 3rd.  Times have changed...you would never have thought of Royal Blue for a baby afghan 50 years ago but that is the color I am using!

Just doing laundry and vegetating today!

I did get an email  about Langdon from another family member but  nothing new was reported except to say that the person who did that to him has been "dealt with"  and she didn't want to know what that meant and neither do I. Just keep  him in your prayers, we don't know how this injury is going to affect him for the rest of his life or what  quality of life he will  have.

Hi everyone.  Today was the beginning of the Senior Golden Games.  We had the kickoff luncheon and business meeting.  We had a delicious meal of either bar-b-que or baked chicken, corn, green beans, roll, slaw, dessert and a drink.  Each person got a very nice tote bag that is insulated to use to bring frozen or refrigerated foods home from the store.  They had 16 $25 dollar gift cards that were drawn as door prizes.  Alas neither Pat nor I had a winning number.

We went from there and picked up our car.  It started everytime at the mechanics.  We are in a bit of a dither to know what to do.

Tonight is choir practice.  It is a truly beautiful day here.

My good friend Rod sent his reels of film off to a place in Missouri and had them transferred to a CD and he also received a hard drive with the same images on them.  If I recall this cost him about $500.

We just finished watching a movie borrowed from the library - all in French with English subtitles.  Nice story and the last name is the same as Don's surname.  Don didn't realize the movie was in French until we started watching the DVD. 

I just ordered thermal draperies from JCPenney company and was surprised that over the internet they tossed on a tax.  When did that happen?  Kohls does not carry curtains and Target had the most inept person ever - I did buy the rod from  Target and that is something because I am usually boycotting the store.  The entire reason for this is our bedroom becomes much too light too early and it would be nice to sleep an extra half hour if that is possible.  Sleepless in Denver. 

Then, I put in a few hours with my beloved Bernina.  This feels like home now.  I am reading a little part of A New Earth Awakening to Your Life's Purpose by Eckhart Tolle - any comments?  The book was loaned to an 85 year young friend and she read it in small increments enjoying the message.  Let me know if any of you have read this book & your thoughts. 

Downtown had a Tea Party today; our daughter wanted to go, I'll have to call and ask if she went to the tax protest. 

Larry:  I hope your car is alright.  Sorry you didn't win anything at the golden games. 

My surgery to tomorrow at 2:45pm and I have to be there 90 minutes before.  So Ivalou knows and she will be taking me.  Can't wait to see if my life changes!!

Beautiful day today in Indiana.  Bright and sunny and somewhat warm...57 degrees! 

I found out Kaye Don and Barb have went to Michigan today.  They just got home from Florida last Saturday!  They are keeping the wheels hot on the car! 

Hi everyone.  Another beautiful day here.  Pat was invited to a special luncheon and hasn't returned yet.  I just got up from a rest. 

I have been able to stay home today, which I am enjoying. 

Carol, we haven't had the car out again after getting it home yesterday.  However, I think we are pretty well decided to seek a new car.  So this morning I have been looking into some details and will soon start looking at various models to determine what we want to do.  I have a feeling our money will buy more now that it will from a year from now.  Neither Pat nor I are in any condition to get stranded someplace because the car won't start.

Etta Sue, we will be thinking about you tomorrow and praying that your operation will be a huge success.

Hello everyone:

Etta Sue:   I hope your surgery goes well.
Larry:  The best of luck with your car choice. What make & model will you be thinking of considering the automotive industry at the present time.

Janet was to be away for 31 days I thought has that time come and gone or is she due back any time now.

I completed my knitting project today and now after getting some of the mag. reading done and filed under G.  I was thinking of starting a prayer shawl a very easy pattern. K3;P3; and next row is done in reverse, when the right color is used it is very pretty.
I went out later in the afternoon and did some yard work and since tomorrow is to a repeat of today Mel & myself will be finishing the job in the morning.

Bye for now.   




 

Janet posted this on March 13:

"Today is our last day at home before we will be away for 34 days!"

Looks like she should be home in a couple more days.    :)

:) :) :)  Janet is home!!  So nice to scroll through and see my name pop up, and know I was missed in here!  Thanks!

I did log on a couple of times in Thailand and Vietnam, but I didn't know what I needed to know to post.  Tried, though.  :-\  They had free internet access everywhere we went, even in the most remote locations.  Strange world today.

Thailand was in turmoil, but that was while we were in Vietnam.  The day we got back to Bangkok, they had things pretty well under control.  Streets were nearly deserted, so strange when you know how many people are usually out.  Before we left Thailand for Vietnam, our tour guide told us about the unrest, and we passed by the Parliament house where the Red Shirts were demonstrating---a literal sea of people in red shirts!  So then they got more unruly, started blocking traffic and setting fires in the streets, etc.

We had a fabulous time, saw and learned so much, took so many great photos, ate wonderful food and of course, came home a bit tired.  We drove home from Denver yesterday morning, arriving at about 11 AM.  Of course first on the agenda was a visit to Beth and Mom, then I spent the rest of the day doing laundry, sorting through two huge boxes of accumulated mail, and scanning through and deleting emails---I had over 900 of them.  Yikes! 

Of course, today is more playing catch-up, but wanted to stop in and tell you all I missed you, and I did think about you while I was away.  It's good to be home!

Welcome back, Janet!  We were indeed all concerned about your being over there in the midst of the unrest.  Very glad you missed most of it.

Welcome back, Janet!  You were missed.  How is Beth and your Mom?  I know they missed you! 

Well, you are right!  Today is the day.  I am excited.  I just feel this surgery will be life changing for me!   

We will leave here around 12:55pm.  It is bright and sunny and suppose to get to 70 degrees!  Time to get out the summer clothes!

Etts Sue I am praying.

Janet Welcome back!!!  yes you were missed.

Well this has beena busy week.  Kass has continued to struggle with migrane headaches.  She missed most of yesterday in school we spentthe day together after seeing a doctor.

It is hard to believe that in 10 days Elizabeth will be 16.  Time has sure flown. 

I didn't get the grocery shopping done yesterday so that is on the agenda for today as well as like Ruth some yard work.  We are expecting rain tomorrow so looks like to day.

Have a great day everyone.

Hi, friends,

Etta Sue, my prayers are that you will experience much relief after you've recovered from the surgery itself.

Janet, many thanks to our Lord for bringing y'all through the crisis and safely back home. Yes, travel is wonderful and educational, and we really have TONS to do when we return! :)

I'm so sorry about Kassie's migraines. 3 of my children suffer from them, as did I. I've only had one in the last 4 or 5 years, though.

Larry, I agree - this would be a very good time to purchase a vehicle. I almost wish I had waited a few more months to buy my little PT cruiser, but have certainly enjoyed it, and am getting the payments made on time and slipping in a few more $$ to help bring the balance down a bit quicker. :)

I surely do want to begin sewing again, but need to move my machines here to the apartment, figure out where to stash them, get them serviced, and potentially look for a replacement of a nicer machine. However, it's great to know that those old, reliable machines are still available to me. One of them is an old used Singer I got back with my first child was a baby - ummmmm, back in the 60s! It still sews a tidy straight seam, and since it has the knee control built into the little sewing cabinet, I can still use it very well, even with the neuropathy.

Oh, by the way, I found out that my current swelling and foot pain are caused by an unnoticed metatarsal break apparently experienced while I was on vacation. So, It's back to the knee high boot again. Thank goodness, my foot specialist had suggested I retain all the healing sandals and boots used for other problems...it's saving me several dollars now that would have to go for a new boot. Isn't God good - He knows what's ahead and makes provision for us.

Y'all have a great rest of the day.

Good Afternoon: 
Welcome home Janet. 

 We finished the yard work for now, our brown bag pick up is next week so far 5 bags to go only a few compared to some.
I have a loaf of brown bread in the breadmaker yummy come dinner time. A taste for me and a bigger slice for Mel.
I have a little job here to do then must finish my paper work.

Pat:  I have gone back a few days and did a copy & paste of the Peroxide a lot of the things I have used in the past but a few are new so it is good information to keep on hand.  Thanks    

Saturday Mel & I will be going fishing it is the opening of some season, you can tell that to me a fish is a fish, to Mel it is something different.  I will enjoy the day though, lots of fresh air.

Time for my afternoon coffee :coffee:

Good afternoon Ruth.  Is salmon season open now?

I am back from shopping and have decided to make a few meals ahead.....just copying my sister!  I am currently making 2 shepherds pies and 2 lasagnas (sp).  I am wanting to do as well 2 chicken casseroles.  Need to call a friend for her recipe.  My bread machine has quit on me but I have a mixer that does the job as well.  so tonight it is home made bread plus one of the above.

I really have to get so Bye for now.  God bless
Judy

Prayers for Etta Sue - Kass - and all!

Larry:  Good luck on looking at a new car.  I will be interested in what you buy. 

Janet:  Welcome home and a safe trip you had! 

RuthAnn:  Good luck with putting your sewing area together. 

Ruth: 

QuoteI completed my knitting project today and now after getting some of the mag. reading done and filed under G.  I was thinking of starting a prayer shawl a very easy pattern. K3;P3; and next row is done in reverse, when the right color is used it is very pretty.
 

I have the same pattern & next week at our meeting, I am hoping one of the experts will help me learn to put it on a circular needle. 

Lunch was canceled today and tonight's play with g-daughter is not going to happen.  We heard a snow/rain storm was coming and we do indeed need the moisture.  For some reason, this is a really tiresome day for me.

JudyB:  Cooking in batches is what I learned early and our daughter does the same.  We always need freezers. 

Time for tea to lift my spirits -

Hi everyone.  I had a full day including going to look at a couple of cars this afternoon. 

I am pretty sure I will buy another Hyundai but the 4 door sedan model.  They now have a 20 year 200,000 mile warranty on the major components and a 5 year bumper to bumper warranty and 24 hour roadside service.  The price is very good and we would get a $1,500 discount because we had previously purchased a Hyundai plus there is a special $2,000 rebate on the Sonata model, which puts it in the price range of the next lower model.  I am going to look at some of the other lines but it will be hard to convince me they would be a better buy.

Janet, so glad to see you home and to know you all escaped all of the upheaval while you were gone.  How did the move to the new building go for Beth and your mother?

Judy, I can feel for Kass as I used to suffer migraines almost on a weekly basis and both of our kids also have them.  I no longer have them.

See you all tomorrow.  I am worn out tonight and plan on retiring early.

Larry, the move to the new building went as smoothly as possible.  They said it was the "organized chaos" we had planned.  But there are problems with the building:  The roof leaked when the first snow, then rain, came; they had buckets setting all over; and they carpeted the entire thing, except for the bathrooms.  I think that was a poor plan.  My Mom can no longer move her wheelchair (on the carpet) so my sister Shirley has found and purchased a power chair for her.  And the nursing staff all complain about how much more difficult it is to move the residents about in their wheelchairs.  I guess it is another of those things where decisions were made by a committee, none of whom had ever worked in a nursing home.  :ticked:

We got another good rain, and it is still overcast today.  So I guess our drought has been broken, praise God.

We went to Diane's last night to get our pets.  Both Sarah and Dinah were very happy to have us back.  But they got along great there, and got plenty of love and attention.  Diane and Jeff both became quite fond of Sarah, said we could just leave her there.  Their dog died a couple months ago, and Diane said if we would leave Sarah, they wouldn't have to housebreak a new dog.   ;)

I finally got to the bottom of the mail pile, and got all the bags unpacked, and almost all the stuff put away.  I have the things I brought home for Beth in a bag ready to take to her today.  She really, really missed her Mom, all the nurses told me.  (I missed her, too.)  I can see that she has lost more ground in the month I was away.  She has been having pain, and we know she has gall stones, so they are talking more surgery.  I hope she doesn't have to have it; I don't know how much more that poor girl can take!  :'(

I have been up and at it for a few hours already, now need to be back at it.

About photos--we got a lot printed in Thailand, and have many more on our memory cards.  So we need to make a trip to Wal*Mart, I guess!

See you all later!

Thanks to you all for your prayers...I felt them.

The surgery center is very personable.  I felt like Queen for a Day.  The surgery itself was quite different.  One...I was awake with only a local anesthetic.  Two...I have never had anyone 'work' on my backside before.  Three...the electric shocks are not pleasant! 

But all went well.  I have a stimulator and am now testing the left side.  Two wires were inserted.  I am thinking I had the stimulator turned up too high.  When the 'local' ran out, I was getting shocked big time just moving.  I kept moving the dial down and now it is quite pleasant.  Still have some numb spots on my hind quarters and I don't know why.  I was up 4 times in the night but the volume was much better!  The nurse for the InterStim Therapy will be calling me today to see how well I have done.  If she is satisfied with this 24 hour period, then I will be testing the right side.  When all is satisfied, I will remove the wires myself!!! 

I go to the surgeon next Friday.  Then if the test went well, it will be a waiting period for the surgery for the permanent implant...mid summer.  I am going to tell them that if they have a cancellation, to call me and I could be there in a hour!  Waiting that long is like giving a kid the taste of candy but telling them they can't have anymore for two weeks! 

This is a rainy day here in the north.  In the forcast for Tuesday is snow....can you believe it!  UGG

Kass seems a bit better today but very tired.  She has been so stressed over the last few weeks that I am sure that is a contributing factor with the headaches.


Pat How are you doing?  How is JudyMcK?

John will be home about suppertime tonight and I have most of his meals ready.

Have a great day everyone,

Still snowing here -

Janet:  Be prepared - the rain is coming your way. 

It's a dark drizzly day here today, but hopefully the drizzle that's supposed to continue most of next week will get rid of the "fire weather alert". 

Etta Sue, I'm so glad the surgery seems to have been a success.  Prayers continue.   :)

Hi everyone.  I don't know where the day went other than we were gone from about 10 this morning until after 2 pm. 

Janet, I sure understand about pushing a wheel chair on carpet.  When Stacey was out last weekend she tried using the wheelchair and finally gave up in favor of the crutches as it was hurting her arms to push the chair.  It is particularly difficult in a transfer chair with the small wheels.

Etta Sue, glad the first phase is over for you and you felt it wasn't too bad. 

Judy, glad to hear that Kassie is feeling better. 

Carol and Jeanne, they are predicting showers for us tomorrow.  Today was a truly beautiful day with very low humidity.

Etta Sue, I am so glad to hear that your "trial run" is going so well!  I had no idea what that surgery was like, but you have given me a fair idea.  Now to get the "real thing", huh?

Carol, we did see a little sun today, but wouldn't really mind some more rain.  So send it on over!

There sure hasn't been much happening in here today.  Guess everyone is busy.

I went to see Beth, then went and worked on my Peru scrapbook for a few hours.  Seemed strange to be thinking of Vietnam but working on photos of Peru.  I am so far behind with my albums!

I got really tired about 3:30, so packed up, came home, sat in my recliner and promptly fell asleep.  Guess I needed a nap, I am still jet-lagged.

Something has got to be done about those Somali pirates!!!  :clobber:

The InterStim Therapy (http://professional.medtronic.com/interventions/sacral-nerve-stimulation/overview/) nurse called yesterday and had me to hook up the right side to be tested.  For some reason the left side quit on me.  The right side test has done much better.  Less trips and more volume with less urgency.  First time, today at church there was no visits to the Ladies room before, during or after church...even waited until Sunday School was over.  And no trips while eating out!  Yeah!! 

Those of you who don't know what InterStim Therapy is may click on the red above and see what I am going through. 

We all ate at the new Olive Gardens today near the new shopping center about 6 miles from me.  A lot bigger restaurant but oh, so noisy!  Everyone was getting louder to be heard!  The food was fantastic!

Now I am waiting for a call from Diane, the InterStim Therapy nurse.  She may be satisfied and have me stop the test.  And I can remove the wires myself!!  Pray for me!

Etta Sue, I am so glad you are experiencing blessed relief from that annoying problem!  What a blessing that will be in your life.  Prayers continue in your behalf.  <3

Please pray for my Darrel.  He is feeling really rough, and has a breaking out in patches around his middle.  Shingles is what we suspect it may be, and are praying it is not--but Janet says he IS GOING to the doctor TOMORROW!  He also has a rib out of place, and has a chiropractor appointment on Tuesday.

And another request:  Beth is feeling really bum, and having lots of pain.  They are sure it is gallstones, and had an appointment set for her on Wednesday, but since she feels so bad, are trying to move it up to tomorrow.  We hope he will go to the Home to see her, much easier on her that way, than taking her into the office.

We had a wonderful service at church today, with a healing service following.  I went in Darrel's stead, for prayer for him.  It is so good to be back home where people worship God, not Buddha or Confucius, or their ancestors, or Ho Chi Mihn!   We should thank God every day for the good old U.S.A.!!

A sun filled Son-Day!  We must have had over a foot of snow - easily.  Don did scrape the driveway and all is melting now so it is a mess of deep icy ruts out in the street as they don't plow our side streets. 

Etta Sue:  I didn't realize all you are enduring and sending prayers that everything works very well for you.

Janet:  What a trip you must have been on - sounds like it would make an interesting story. My prayers for Beth & Darrell.

Larry:  Can anyone put larger wheels on Stacey's chair?  There has to be an answer for her.  I have never been in or looked at a Hyundai vehicle but they sure get high ratings.   

We were in Arizona for three months and I just can't catch up fast enough.  My list is so long - many friends to call and chat with so why are they not home when I call?  We will try to visit oldest son & family later today if someone calls back.  Meanwhile, Don had to fix the garage door as it wouldn't open & it is so heavy to push it up like we did in the olden days.  ^-^  I am sleepy every afternoon and really fight it most of the time and one thing is I have ordered room darkening drapery for the bedroom.  Otherwise, the sun is waking me much too early & I can't stay in bed - old habit. 

Hi everyone.  This has been a nice and peaceful day.  I did attend church this morning (Pat didn't attend as she was feeling exhausted--guess we did too much running around yesterday).  During the service there ewas a special recognition for our wonderful choir director and our organist, each of whom has been with us for 10 years.  Also there was a special recognition for our church administrator, who has been at the church for 20 years.  Following the service there was a very nice reception with lots of goodies.  I didn't need to eat lunch when I got home.  Rather, I took a nice two hour rest/nap.  

Etta Sue, that is indeed good news on your morning.  That manufacturer also is one of the makers of the combined pacemakers/defibulators.  However, the one I have is made by a company called St. Judes.

Janet, I feel for Beth and the gall bladder problem.  That is very painful and sometimes you wonder if you will ever get relief from the pain.  The pain came almost everytime after I ate and often had it in the middle of the night.  Also sorry to hear of the discomfort that Darrel is experiencing.  Sure a good thing you are home if he does have shingles and he sure shouldn't wait to find out as I think there are treatments now to help.  

We had sad news in our church family this week as one of the ladies we know and who attends the Wednesday morning Bible study group, has been dignosed with lung cancer and has been taken to hospice.  She has elected not to have treatment as fought off cancer once before and is now 86 years sold.  

Carol , why are you fighting taking an afternoon nap.  That is one of the joys of being retired.  Glad to hear your snow is melting.

Praying for you Etta Sue

Janet I am praying for Darrell and Beth.

Father, I pray You'll give Etta Sue complete and permanent relief.  I pray they'll find out quickly what Beth's problem, is and be able to take care of it.  I pray for Darrel that they'll correctly diagnose and treat his problem.  Oh Father, do these things, I pray, through our Lord Jesus Christ.
Here it's about 69 degrees, sunny, and absolutely beautiful.  Supposed to be this way through thursday.  Our pastor and his wife have gone to a mountain retreat south of Mt. Lassen that was set up specially for pastors and  their wives.  I'm praying they'll be completely refreshed.
I go back to Vector Rehab tomorrow to have the leg looked at.  They might possibly wrap it again for just the day or two until the new fittings come in.  The new fittings will be worn at night and are supposed to be therapeutic, so my prayer is that they will be.

Carol, Larry, Marilyn and Al...Thanks for the prayers.  Our God is able, and praise His name, also willing!

I am exhausted, still jet-lagged, plus trying to care for both Beth and Darrel.  I pray tomorrow's doctor visits will provide us some answers, and some relief, as well. 

I don't care if it is only 6:15, I am headed to my bed, with vitamin C, Zinc and Tylenol on board.  :sleep:

Time to close the door on this week's "Thoughts for the Week" and open a new one for April 19

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