Over the weekend, I celebrated being married to Stacey for 17 years. We did so up at Lake Luther in separate cabins. We were up there with our friends (church family) from Christ the Savior.
We had 26-8th graders there along with 14 high schoolers (their peer guides) and 8 other adults. The weekend was a fantastic weekend.
No, we did not do anything flashing but we were doing what we loved. I was teaching and leading and she was in the kitchen cooking and serving.
It has been a journey and I look forward to many more.
The thoughts and writings on this blog are the thoughts of Jeff and do not necessarily represent the views of Grace First Parish of Russell and/or Lutheran Campus Ministry of Southwest Minnesota State University.
Showing posts with label Stacey. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Stacey. Show all posts
Wednesday, March 09, 2011
Monday, August 03, 2009
At The Cleveland Clinic
We are at the Clinic again. Stacey was not doing well, so she gave the nurses/doctor a call. They were in contact with the surgeon and she put her on the surgery schedule.
It was a whirlwind getting a sitter for the kids and getting her up to the hospital but it all worked out. I am in the waiting room right now. The surgeon has come out and talked to me, the procedure went fine. She is not in recovery yet, should be very soon.
They will watch her for 60-90 mins (most likely) and then release her, we will then be bac on our way down to Woo.
It was a whirlwind getting a sitter for the kids and getting her up to the hospital but it all worked out. I am in the waiting room right now. The surgeon has come out and talked to me, the procedure went fine. She is not in recovery yet, should be very soon.
They will watch her for 60-90 mins (most likely) and then release her, we will then be bac on our way down to Woo.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Monday, November 24, 2008
An Update on my Wife
I did not put this up on my blog, however there was some conversations on forums and emails about my wife and wanted to place an update for you, so you will know what has been happening.
Stacey was beginning to feel pain and last week, she called her surgeon and scheduled a visit. The surgeon got her in very quickly. We went up to the Cleveland Clinic on Wednesday and they scheduled an EUA (examination under anesthesia) on Friday.
On Friday, we left at 4:15 am and we were a little concerned that we were not going to make it up there due to the snow and the wind. It was almost "whiteout" in a few instances. However, we did get up there and was only a few minutes late.
They got her in and the procedure lasted a little over an hour. I am typing this and my wife is not here and have not cleared what I can and cannot say, so I will say it in the following manner:
They had to do more than normal, thus the surgeon stated that she will be in more pain than normal following the surgical procedure. After 72 hours, I believe that she would concur with the surgeon - her pain is higher than normal.
We have lost count in a sense. We believe that this is her 10th procedure in the last 20 months. One day, we hope and pray that this will end. However, we also understand that unfortunately this may be a continual occurrence and can hope and pray that the time lapse in between them grow. This last time, it was 5 months, so that is a good thing.
Stacey is doing good, not great at the present time. However, I am amazed at how much she is able to do with only 72 hours passing. She is a real trooper. We will need to see how the long trip will play out for her - we are headed to Illinois for Thanksgiving.
So, thank-you for the prayers and I ask you to continue to pray for her as she continues to heal. I also ask you to pray that there can be a respite from this for awhile and that if/when new medications are in place that those medications will work and that there will be no short-term or long-term side effects from the medications.
I love you Stacey, you are such a strong woman to get through all the procedures and to keep the head up during all of this chaos.
Stacey was beginning to feel pain and last week, she called her surgeon and scheduled a visit. The surgeon got her in very quickly. We went up to the Cleveland Clinic on Wednesday and they scheduled an EUA (examination under anesthesia) on Friday.
On Friday, we left at 4:15 am and we were a little concerned that we were not going to make it up there due to the snow and the wind. It was almost "whiteout" in a few instances. However, we did get up there and was only a few minutes late.
They got her in and the procedure lasted a little over an hour. I am typing this and my wife is not here and have not cleared what I can and cannot say, so I will say it in the following manner:
They had to do more than normal, thus the surgeon stated that she will be in more pain than normal following the surgical procedure. After 72 hours, I believe that she would concur with the surgeon - her pain is higher than normal.
We have lost count in a sense. We believe that this is her 10th procedure in the last 20 months. One day, we hope and pray that this will end. However, we also understand that unfortunately this may be a continual occurrence and can hope and pray that the time lapse in between them grow. This last time, it was 5 months, so that is a good thing.
Stacey is doing good, not great at the present time. However, I am amazed at how much she is able to do with only 72 hours passing. She is a real trooper. We will need to see how the long trip will play out for her - we are headed to Illinois for Thanksgiving.
So, thank-you for the prayers and I ask you to continue to pray for her as she continues to heal. I also ask you to pray that there can be a respite from this for awhile and that if/when new medications are in place that those medications will work and that there will be no short-term or long-term side effects from the medications.
I love you Stacey, you are such a strong woman to get through all the procedures and to keep the head up during all of this chaos.
Friday, September 05, 2008
Isaiah is 11
Yesterday, Isaiah turned 11 years old. It is unbelievable. I remember 11 years ago that I thought that I was going to lose both my wife and my newborn son. With them both in surgery and their life in balance, I was terrified and had no clue what to do.
My wife though tells the story of Isaiah so much better then me. Thus, today, I am stealing her post and letting her share about last night AND more importanly, the story of Isaiah's birth. It truly is amazing and it is a MIRACLE.
The story through the eyes of my beautiful wife:
Isaiah turned 11 today! I cannnot believe he's past ten years old. I'm not possibly old enough to have an 11-year-old child... am I? After bathtime this evening, we suprised him with presents and a cake! I think he'd given up on getting anything this year at all!!
At 4:57 am this morning, it was officially 11 years since the birth of our little 2 lb 3 oz, 13 1/4 inch long, wonder baby. His birth marked the end of what felt like the world's longest but also shortest pregnancy. I'd been on bed-rest for 10 weeks by the time he was born. I had thrown up at least three times everyday practically from conception. I had been in excrutiating pain the same amount of time. I had been told by doctors that I was just having normal pregnancy pains and to get used to it. I had lost 30 lbs from his conception to his birth. I was so sick. I didn't know exactly how sick until two days after his birth when I woke-up with a 106 degree temp and couldn't move from the incredible pain. I ended up in emergency surgery at 11:00 that night fighting for my life. This was when the Crohn's was diagnosed.
While I was fighting for my life, so was my little guy. After a day or two, his weight had dropped to a frightening 1 lb 12 oz. When he was born, he just looked like a really small, but healthy baby. After losing a several ounces, he looked like a sick baby. Although at the time, I didn't think so. I just saw the precious baby that I had wanted since I was a five year old putting a pillow under my shirt pretending I was pregnant.
I spent many moments in tears wondering what would happen. If you've ever given birth and had a "normal" delivery and baby, you know the emotions and hormones that run thru you. Multiply that feeling by 1000 and you have an idea of what giving birth to a sick baby does to ones emotions. Then add in the stress of being sick for six months straight, surgery, and medical bills, and you've got one emotional train wreck.
After I was finally released from the hospital to go home, two weeks after my arrival, I went to the hospital to see him as often as I could. Most weeks that meant 7 out of 7 days. On occasion my mother and the nurses "made" me stay home to rest. On those days I called several times to check on him.
There was a point sometime during his first month of life that they sent us home one evening and told us to discuss the option of turning off the machines. This was right after they had told us that he had a severe interventricular brain hemorhage and hydrocephulus. Basically his little brain was supposed to be so damaged that he probably would never do most of the things we take for granted. It didn't look good for our little guy. We decided that we would allow him to be whoever he was supposed to be. We did and look at who he has turned into today.
He's the most amazing 11 year old I've ever had the pleasure to be around. He's a hard worker, which comes naturally when you have to teach yourself to get around somehow because your brain isn't letting you crawl, so you decide that scooting on your butt is a good option. He destroyed the butts of many cute little outfits by scotting around. He used his hands and the sides of his ankles to push around. It was a sight to behold. I remember when one of the people at the development center shot down my thrill about his scooting around and told me he had to crawl or he wasn't developing properly. I never stepped foot in their office again. We found another person who would rejoice in what he could do, not tear him down for what he couldn't.
By the time he began walking at the age of two, I had been taught the most valuable lesson in my life... don't take anything that your children do for granted. Parents of typical children just assume their child will do everything when they are supposed to. We knew he probably never would. He never has. He does everything when he's ready and not a second sooner. I've learned to rejoice in everything. I've learned that slower doesn't mean dumber as many people think. It means that he thinks differently, and wow does he.
He's an amazing kid that has overcome alot in his first 11 years of life. He's had to work harder his 11 years than most of us have to in 30. I find myself wanting to protect him from all the crap that the world will surely bring his way in the years to come. Right now he lives in what I call "Isaiah land". This protects him from the other kids who tease or make fun because they can't always understand what he says because of his speech delay. Part of me hopes that he always lives in "Isaiah Land", but I know that one day he'll leave there and see the world for what it really is. I dread that moment because that'll be the day when I wanna step in and fix it all for him and I know I won't be able to. He has to learn to live in the world as Isaiah.
So, Big Guy, on this 11th birthday of yours... a day we weren't sure we'd celebrate 11 years ago... Happy Birthday to my favorite 11 year old! I love you soooooooooooo much!
My wife though tells the story of Isaiah so much better then me. Thus, today, I am stealing her post and letting her share about last night AND more importanly, the story of Isaiah's birth. It truly is amazing and it is a MIRACLE.
The story through the eyes of my beautiful wife:
Isaiah turned 11 today! I cannnot believe he's past ten years old. I'm not possibly old enough to have an 11-year-old child... am I? After bathtime this evening, we suprised him with presents and a cake! I think he'd given up on getting anything this year at all!!
At 4:57 am this morning, it was officially 11 years since the birth of our little 2 lb 3 oz, 13 1/4 inch long, wonder baby. His birth marked the end of what felt like the world's longest but also shortest pregnancy. I'd been on bed-rest for 10 weeks by the time he was born. I had thrown up at least three times everyday practically from conception. I had been in excrutiating pain the same amount of time. I had been told by doctors that I was just having normal pregnancy pains and to get used to it. I had lost 30 lbs from his conception to his birth. I was so sick. I didn't know exactly how sick until two days after his birth when I woke-up with a 106 degree temp and couldn't move from the incredible pain. I ended up in emergency surgery at 11:00 that night fighting for my life. This was when the Crohn's was diagnosed.
While I was fighting for my life, so was my little guy. After a day or two, his weight had dropped to a frightening 1 lb 12 oz. When he was born, he just looked like a really small, but healthy baby. After losing a several ounces, he looked like a sick baby. Although at the time, I didn't think so. I just saw the precious baby that I had wanted since I was a five year old putting a pillow under my shirt pretending I was pregnant.
I spent many moments in tears wondering what would happen. If you've ever given birth and had a "normal" delivery and baby, you know the emotions and hormones that run thru you. Multiply that feeling by 1000 and you have an idea of what giving birth to a sick baby does to ones emotions. Then add in the stress of being sick for six months straight, surgery, and medical bills, and you've got one emotional train wreck.
After I was finally released from the hospital to go home, two weeks after my arrival, I went to the hospital to see him as often as I could. Most weeks that meant 7 out of 7 days. On occasion my mother and the nurses "made" me stay home to rest. On those days I called several times to check on him.
There was a point sometime during his first month of life that they sent us home one evening and told us to discuss the option of turning off the machines. This was right after they had told us that he had a severe interventricular brain hemorhage and hydrocephulus. Basically his little brain was supposed to be so damaged that he probably would never do most of the things we take for granted. It didn't look good for our little guy. We decided that we would allow him to be whoever he was supposed to be. We did and look at who he has turned into today.
He's the most amazing 11 year old I've ever had the pleasure to be around. He's a hard worker, which comes naturally when you have to teach yourself to get around somehow because your brain isn't letting you crawl, so you decide that scooting on your butt is a good option. He destroyed the butts of many cute little outfits by scotting around. He used his hands and the sides of his ankles to push around. It was a sight to behold. I remember when one of the people at the development center shot down my thrill about his scooting around and told me he had to crawl or he wasn't developing properly. I never stepped foot in their office again. We found another person who would rejoice in what he could do, not tear him down for what he couldn't.
By the time he began walking at the age of two, I had been taught the most valuable lesson in my life... don't take anything that your children do for granted. Parents of typical children just assume their child will do everything when they are supposed to. We knew he probably never would. He never has. He does everything when he's ready and not a second sooner. I've learned to rejoice in everything. I've learned that slower doesn't mean dumber as many people think. It means that he thinks differently, and wow does he.
He's an amazing kid that has overcome alot in his first 11 years of life. He's had to work harder his 11 years than most of us have to in 30. I find myself wanting to protect him from all the crap that the world will surely bring his way in the years to come. Right now he lives in what I call "Isaiah land". This protects him from the other kids who tease or make fun because they can't always understand what he says because of his speech delay. Part of me hopes that he always lives in "Isaiah Land", but I know that one day he'll leave there and see the world for what it really is. I dread that moment because that'll be the day when I wanna step in and fix it all for him and I know I won't be able to. He has to learn to live in the world as Isaiah.
So, Big Guy, on this 11th birthday of yours... a day we weren't sure we'd celebrate 11 years ago... Happy Birthday to my favorite 11 year old! I love you soooooooooooo much!
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Vacation Pictures
This post is going to be pictures from the vacation. On ytop of the picture IN BOLD will be a descriptive term of the photo and then underneath the photo in italics will be more info about the pic (if so desired).
Overall the trip was great. It did rain and storm some while we were there but to me; you have to expect rain and storms and just roll with it.
Kids Ready For Trip
As Stacey was doing the final packing items, we were outside and decided to snap a few photos. Here they are ready for their journey. We were going to travel about 90 mins and then go to church and then head on out .... thus the reason for some nicer travel clothes.
Jacob: Attitude Look
Lately, Jacob has been trying to give "this look" everytime a pic is taken. Our soft loving guy likes to give a hard look every once awhile.
Jeff, the Tough Man
I tried to show a mean look .... to out do him. I am not sure who won. Stacey was not too thrilled that I had my mohawk up and a "raggy" tshirt for church - at a church we had never been. But, I wanted to see how welcomed I would feel - being a little "rough". Very welcomed and very friendly church; really amazed.
Jacob Riding His Fusion
He loves it. He had an accident the first 10 mins there. He went down a very steep hill and tore his skin off. HOWEVER, he continued to ride all week and conquered the hill. I wish that I did a video.
Jacob .. Pondering
Deep thought.
Kids Eating Brunch
Yummy. Pancakes and Bacon
Isaiah Covering His Head
He did not want his hair to be in the pic BECAUSE he thought he was having a ...
Isaiah, His Bad Hair Day
Isaiah, A Close Up
We were all in the pick-up truck and he was almost right up on me. I love the pic though. You can look through his eyes and see his mind turning.
Isaiah in the Rain
rain .. rain .. rain .. go away and come back another day
Jacob and His Coral Snake
Jacob wants a real snake. Mom will not allow that in NO CARTAIN terms, so he settles for snake candy.
Jacob Crossing the Tree
We were not sure that he was going to make it, but he accomplished it.
Don't Start a Fire
Don't even think about it, mister
Bethany and Jacob Playing Frisbee
No, it is not in the pic, they are after it ... :)
Jacob on the Trail
Jacob liked the trail and even allowed a photo.
View From Our Hike
Very nice view. You can not see all the 'levels' in the pic though.
Isaiah Hiding
He loves to hide and 'spook' people; especially his younger brother. It is quite amusing to watch at times.
Corn, Anyone ?
Corn on the Cob in the Fire = GREAT TASTE
Those Hurt
It is bound to happen chasing the frisbee into the woods.
Doing Dishes in the Rain
Working Hard, even in the rain
The Fire Tower
The kids and I climbed it. I can not believe that I use to jump off of cliffs higher than the tower in college - craziness.
Stacey at the Bottom of the Tower
She looks so small .. she looks like an ant (Bethany)
Bethany and Jacob in the Truck
Ready for the trip back to the campsite through the park. Yes, we got reprimanded.
Bethany Smelling the Flowers
I love this photo and she loves her flowers
Bethany and the Moth
She chased creatures all week.
Bethany at the Lake
She made me cast a shadow over her so her eyes would not be blinded.
Bethany in the Rain
Rain was not going to damper her experience
Ladder Ball
Camp Favorite, maybe. Bean toss was up there as well.
Stacey and her Dad
Daddy and Daughter
Look Out
We can see 'them' coming
Well, there are numerous photos. Not all of them by any means but it should give you a glimpse of the trip.
Overall the trip was great. It did rain and storm some while we were there but to me; you have to expect rain and storms and just roll with it.
Kids Ready For Trip
As Stacey was doing the final packing items, we were outside and decided to snap a few photos. Here they are ready for their journey. We were going to travel about 90 mins and then go to church and then head on out .... thus the reason for some nicer travel clothes.
Jacob: Attitude Look
Lately, Jacob has been trying to give "this look" everytime a pic is taken. Our soft loving guy likes to give a hard look every once awhile.
Jeff, the Tough Man
I tried to show a mean look .... to out do him. I am not sure who won. Stacey was not too thrilled that I had my mohawk up and a "raggy" tshirt for church - at a church we had never been. But, I wanted to see how welcomed I would feel - being a little "rough". Very welcomed and very friendly church; really amazed.
Jacob Riding His Fusion
He loves it. He had an accident the first 10 mins there. He went down a very steep hill and tore his skin off. HOWEVER, he continued to ride all week and conquered the hill. I wish that I did a video.
Jacob .. Pondering
Deep thought.
Kids Eating Brunch
Yummy. Pancakes and Bacon
Isaiah Covering His Head
He did not want his hair to be in the pic BECAUSE he thought he was having a ...
Isaiah, His Bad Hair Day
Isaiah, A Close Up
We were all in the pick-up truck and he was almost right up on me. I love the pic though. You can look through his eyes and see his mind turning.
Isaiah in the Rain
rain .. rain .. rain .. go away and come back another day
Jacob and His Coral Snake
Jacob wants a real snake. Mom will not allow that in NO CARTAIN terms, so he settles for snake candy.
Jacob Crossing the Tree
We were not sure that he was going to make it, but he accomplished it.
Don't Start a Fire
Don't even think about it, mister
Bethany and Jacob Playing Frisbee
No, it is not in the pic, they are after it ... :)
Jacob on the Trail
Jacob liked the trail and even allowed a photo.
View From Our Hike
Very nice view. You can not see all the 'levels' in the pic though.
Isaiah Hiding
He loves to hide and 'spook' people; especially his younger brother. It is quite amusing to watch at times.
Corn, Anyone ?
Corn on the Cob in the Fire = GREAT TASTE
Those Hurt
It is bound to happen chasing the frisbee into the woods.
Doing Dishes in the Rain
Working Hard, even in the rain
The Fire Tower
The kids and I climbed it. I can not believe that I use to jump off of cliffs higher than the tower in college - craziness.
Stacey at the Bottom of the Tower
She looks so small .. she looks like an ant (Bethany)
Bethany and Jacob in the Truck
Ready for the trip back to the campsite through the park. Yes, we got reprimanded.
Bethany Smelling the Flowers
I love this photo and she loves her flowers
Bethany and the Moth
She chased creatures all week.
Bethany at the Lake
She made me cast a shadow over her so her eyes would not be blinded.
Bethany in the Rain
Rain was not going to damper her experience
Ladder Ball
Camp Favorite, maybe. Bean toss was up there as well.
Stacey and her Dad
Daddy and Daughter
Look Out
We can see 'them' coming
Well, there are numerous photos. Not all of them by any means but it should give you a glimpse of the trip.
Friday, June 27, 2008
Waiting
I am still waiting. I was able to go visit her for about 15 minutes. She was in temporary recovery. They sent me back to the waiting room to wait till she is in her own recovery area. It has been about 45 minutes. Hopefully, they will be calling my name soon.
It is very interesting to "people watch" and see how others are handling their waiting. You see individuals who are waiting by themselves and groups who are waiting together. The waiting room as cleared out quite abit. Of course it is 8:09 pm. We got here at noon .... a lot of waiting.
When I saw Stacey, she was doing good. She said the pain was about a 3 out of a 10 which is good because it was up around 7 and 8 earlier in the day.
The ER waiting room was very intriguing ..... a lot of action and police :)
It is very interesting to "people watch" and see how others are handling their waiting. You see individuals who are waiting by themselves and groups who are waiting together. The waiting room as cleared out quite abit. Of course it is 8:09 pm. We got here at noon .... a lot of waiting.
When I saw Stacey, she was doing good. She said the pain was about a 3 out of a 10 which is good because it was up around 7 and 8 earlier in the day.
The ER waiting room was very intriguing ..... a lot of action and police :)
Stacey Is Out
Stacey is out of surgery. She is not quite in recovery yet. She should be there any minute. I am at the main campus at the Clinic thus I was able to tap into their wi-fi. I brought the comp - just in case.
This procedure was actually the shortest one, yet. Hopefully, the readjusting did it's job and she will not be in discomfort and in immense pain - the pain was really bad for her this last week.
This procedure was actually the shortest one, yet. Hopefully, the readjusting did it's job and she will not be in discomfort and in immense pain - the pain was really bad for her this last week.
Friday, June 20, 2008
She Made It Through
Stacey's surgical procedure seemed to go very well. We are back home and she is in her room resting. We will know more later but all seems well right now. To everyone that was praying for her - thanks. Hopefully, the time frame between procedure 8 and procedure 9 will be a long distance off.
Thursday, May 08, 2008
Prayers for Stacey
Hey there. I just wanted to let everyone know that Stacey and me are making a trip to the Cleavland Clinic tomorrow morning. Her appointment is at 9 am.
She has been in pain for a few days and she has tried to ride it out. However, I forced her to call the doctor. After a few conversations with the nurses and the surgeons, they wanted to see her tomorrow morning.
So, if you happen to surf by my blog before her appointment, we would appreciate the prayers. We are hoping that we will be able to do it (healing) with medication, but another surgery may be discussed.
Of course, we have no clue but we will know more in about 15 hours. I will give you all an update when we get back into town.
Wednesday, March 05, 2008
Happy Anniversary
14 years ago today, Stacey and I got married.
Stacey, it has been an unbelievable ride over the last 14 years. I am sure that if we could have seen into the future while we were at Lincoln Christian College and watched a video: "The Greathouse Life"; we would have smiled and then bursted out in laughter. We would have said, "that is not going to be our life".
Thank you for everything that you have done for me, our family and our ministry over the years. You truly have been a God-sent blessing. I look forward to the next 14 years. Just think (tears) our little one will be in college by that time and we may be "empy nesters". Nah, all three will still be hanging around.
I love you greatly. I truly admire you for everything that you do and everything that you have become. Your strenght and determination has been amnazing to watch as you have faced obstacles that are not really fair.
Your in my thoughts and prayers and I sent you my love. I look forward to our journey in life together.
Happy Anniversary - Number 14
Stacey, it has been an unbelievable ride over the last 14 years. I am sure that if we could have seen into the future while we were at Lincoln Christian College and watched a video: "The Greathouse Life"; we would have smiled and then bursted out in laughter. We would have said, "that is not going to be our life".
Thank you for everything that you have done for me, our family and our ministry over the years. You truly have been a God-sent blessing. I look forward to the next 14 years. Just think (tears) our little one will be in college by that time and we may be "empy nesters". Nah, all three will still be hanging around.
I love you greatly. I truly admire you for everything that you do and everything that you have become. Your strenght and determination has been amnazing to watch as you have faced obstacles that are not really fair.
Your in my thoughts and prayers and I sent you my love. I look forward to our journey in life together.
Happy Anniversary - Number 14
Thursday, February 14, 2008
To My Wife ....
Happy Valentine's Day.
Thank you for everything that you do for me and the love that you continue to shower to me. The last 15 years with you have been very fantastic. I am thoroughly looking forward to the next 50+ years with you.
You truly are an amazing woman that has wonderful strenght.
Thanks for being a fantastic wife. I do appreciate it; even though I probably do not lift you up enough about that. You are wonderful in my eyes.
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Surgery # 6
Just wanted to let you know that we will be leaving in 5 hours (Friday morning at 4 am) to go to Cleveland. Stacey is going to have her 6th surgery in 10 months. She will be checked in at 6:00 am with a 7:30 target time for surgery. With this being the 6th one; we know what to expect. Her pain has been pretty bad the last 24 hours. Thankfully, she has pain meds. I will let you know how everything went tomorrow afternoon/night.
UPDATE
We are home. The surgery lasted about an hour. She is doing well. Thankfully, we are in a wonderful hospital system and have a tremendous surgeon.
Thanks
UPDATE
We are home. The surgery lasted about an hour. She is doing well. Thankfully, we are in a wonderful hospital system and have a tremendous surgeon.
Thanks
Monday, November 05, 2007
Through The Eyes of My MIL
My MIL came and spent 9 days with us. My wife and the kids had a ball with mom and granny hanging around. While here, she took tons of pictures. We dumpped them on my comp and here are a few pics for people to see the family growing up. So, these are pics through the eyes of my MIL.
Here is a pic of Bethany and Granny
Stacey, Isaiah and Jacob carving up the pumpkin:
Does it scare you ???
Stacey prepping Isaiah for Trunk-Or-Treat
Our Pastor at Trunk-Or-Treat
Isaiah & Jacob at T-Or-T
Stacey & Jacob picking on each other ....... endlessly
Our "small" dog with the boys ..
Here is a pic of Bethany and Granny
Stacey, Isaiah and Jacob carving up the pumpkin:
Does it scare you ???
Stacey prepping Isaiah for Trunk-Or-Treat
Our Pastor at Trunk-Or-Treat
Isaiah & Jacob at T-Or-T
Stacey & Jacob picking on each other ....... endlessly
Our "small" dog with the boys ..
Friday, September 21, 2007
A Long Week
It has been a very long week. Overall it has been a good one, but here are a few highlights for those of you who try to follow what is happening in our family life. I know that I have not blogged that much lately.
Sunday
Sunday was a busy day with the three worship services at church, sunday school kick-off which included a rally, confirmation began ( I teach ), our Sunday afternoon ministry began.
Monday
Monday was a busy office day because I knew that I was going to be out of the office most of the week. Monday afternoon, I attempted to catch the ms girls volleyball game ( one of the girls from confirmation plays ) before I went to council. I only got to see warm up but had a great coversation with mom. Council meeting was excellent with fellowship and sharing about ministry.
It was also Bethany's first day of preschool in the state of O-H-I-O
The boys also had soccer foot skills.
Tuesday
Stacey did not have a great weekend and was in pain. Her surgeon was willing to see her so we went up there for an exam. the exam went okay but they decided another procedure was needed and scheduled it for Friday.
I came home and spent a few hours in the office. I came home for dinner and took the boys to a varsity girls hs soccer game. This accomplished a few things. One, it helped them understand defense a little better and we got to see a hs girl from our church play and talk to their parents.
Wednesday
I prepared most of my lessons and then had some family time before I went to meet with some guys from the church. We sat around and played cards and laughed and told stories. Following the night of cards .. Stacey, Isaiah and myself went to Cold Stone for ice cream.
Thursday
We left at 5 am to drive up to Cleveland for Isaiah. He had an MRI done. I got back into town early in the afternoon and spent a couple hours in the office before going to an Upward Basketball coaches meeting and then to their school for a PTO meeting.
Friday (today)
We left at 4:30 in the morning to go to Cleveland. This time it was for Stacey and her procedure. The procedure seemed to go well. We got back around 3 pm. I took the kids over to the church building to play while I did some final prep - still have about 1-2 hours of work left. We then went over and grabbed some pizzas and ate them while vegging. Stacey is knocked out while Isaiah is watching tv, Jacob is running around like a mad man and Bethany is getting into everything upstairs.
It is almost time to stake out the spot on the floor and go nighty nighty. We have to be at the soccer field for Bethany's soccer game at 8:45
Sunday
Sunday was a busy day with the three worship services at church, sunday school kick-off which included a rally, confirmation began ( I teach ), our Sunday afternoon ministry began.
Monday
Monday was a busy office day because I knew that I was going to be out of the office most of the week. Monday afternoon, I attempted to catch the ms girls volleyball game ( one of the girls from confirmation plays ) before I went to council. I only got to see warm up but had a great coversation with mom. Council meeting was excellent with fellowship and sharing about ministry.
It was also Bethany's first day of preschool in the state of O-H-I-O
The boys also had soccer foot skills.
Tuesday
Stacey did not have a great weekend and was in pain. Her surgeon was willing to see her so we went up there for an exam. the exam went okay but they decided another procedure was needed and scheduled it for Friday.
I came home and spent a few hours in the office. I came home for dinner and took the boys to a varsity girls hs soccer game. This accomplished a few things. One, it helped them understand defense a little better and we got to see a hs girl from our church play and talk to their parents.
Wednesday
I prepared most of my lessons and then had some family time before I went to meet with some guys from the church. We sat around and played cards and laughed and told stories. Following the night of cards .. Stacey, Isaiah and myself went to Cold Stone for ice cream.
Thursday
We left at 5 am to drive up to Cleveland for Isaiah. He had an MRI done. I got back into town early in the afternoon and spent a couple hours in the office before going to an Upward Basketball coaches meeting and then to their school for a PTO meeting.
Friday (today)
We left at 4:30 in the morning to go to Cleveland. This time it was for Stacey and her procedure. The procedure seemed to go well. We got back around 3 pm. I took the kids over to the church building to play while I did some final prep - still have about 1-2 hours of work left. We then went over and grabbed some pizzas and ate them while vegging. Stacey is knocked out while Isaiah is watching tv, Jacob is running around like a mad man and Bethany is getting into everything upstairs.
It is almost time to stake out the spot on the floor and go nighty nighty. We have to be at the soccer field for Bethany's soccer game at 8:45
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Bethany & The Docs
Bethany went to the specialist today for her brace. She (for those who do not know) has scoliosis. It is pretty severe - her curvage is 41%. HOWEVER, we caught it early and we are in the Cleveland Clinic Hospital setting; so we are comfortable with the care.
She most likely will have to wear the brace 16-20 hours aday. This will be for many, many years to come. At the present time; she seems to be a real trooper. We will take our first step on September 12th when we pick up the brace. I put a few of the pics up from the docs.
Bethany & Me
Doc Preparing Bethany for the Body Mold
Mom Cleaning up the Paste
She most likely will have to wear the brace 16-20 hours aday. This will be for many, many years to come. At the present time; she seems to be a real trooper. We will take our first step on September 12th when we pick up the brace. I put a few of the pics up from the docs.
Bethany & Me
Doc Preparing Bethany for the Body Mold
Mom Cleaning up the Paste
Friday, August 24, 2007
My Wife / My Daughter
I am in my office working on the website that needs to be ready by the end of the day. I have sent a letter to the confirmation students and told them to check the schedule out on line - so it needs to be up. HOWEVER, I had to take 5 minutes and place these lyrics on my blog. Everyday, I hear this song and everyday it reminds me of wife wife and words that she would speak to our daughter. The lyrics are below. I wish I had a video or audio link; but I don't.
In My Arms by Plumb
your baby blues
so full of wonder
your curley cues
your contageous smile
and as i watch
you start to grow up
all I can do is hold you tight
knowing clouds will raise up
storms will race in
but you will be safe in my arms
rains will pour down
waves will crash all around
but you will be safe in my arms
story books full of fairy tales
kings and queens and the bluest skies
My heart is torn just in knowing
you'll someday see the truth from lies
knowing clouds will raise up
storms will race in
but you will be safe in my arms
rains will pour down
waves will crash all around
but you will be safe in my arms
Castles they might crumble
dreams may not come true
but you are never all alone
because I will always
always love you
clouds will raise up
storms will race in
but you will be safe in my arms
rains will pour down
waves will crash all around
but you will be safe in my arms
In My Arms by Plumb
your baby blues
so full of wonder
your curley cues
your contageous smile
and as i watch
you start to grow up
all I can do is hold you tight
knowing clouds will raise up
storms will race in
but you will be safe in my arms
rains will pour down
waves will crash all around
but you will be safe in my arms
story books full of fairy tales
kings and queens and the bluest skies
My heart is torn just in knowing
you'll someday see the truth from lies
knowing clouds will raise up
storms will race in
but you will be safe in my arms
rains will pour down
waves will crash all around
but you will be safe in my arms
Castles they might crumble
dreams may not come true
but you are never all alone
because I will always
always love you
clouds will raise up
storms will race in
but you will be safe in my arms
rains will pour down
waves will crash all around
but you will be safe in my arms
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Update on Stacey
I have been asked by a few individuals on how Stacey is doing, so here is a little update on her progress.
When she had her surgery, she was hoping that another seton was not going to be necessary. But, alas, it was and not in her most desireable location.
However, she bounced back from the surgery very nicely and probably pushed herself a little too hard even though she is doing great (a little fatigued at times).
She bounced back so well that she found herself "at home" in the kitchen helping with the VBS meal. She is a real tropper.
Her next appointment is on the 14th. It can not be moved. They have squeazed her in to make this happen with the GI and the surgeon. The small problem came into play because we have a staff retreat on that day.
Within 5 minutes though of Stacey calling and letting me know that the appointment must be made ... a few phone calls, office visit at church was made and we had people watching / picking up kids and someone to go to the hospital with Stacey.
The church people are being sooooooo helpful as we navigate these choppy waters. It is so fantastic to have a supporting congregation around us.
Thus, we will know a lot more on the 14th. We may find out what the next steps will be, we may get her on a treatment plan and we may begin the aggressive medication (humira). Whatever the steps are, I know these things (yuck, that sounded like Glen Beck):
1. The hospial system she is in his AWESOME
2. We have a church who is in our corner
3. We have GREAT insurance where we can rest with ease
Thanks for all the concerns, the prayers and the financial gifts to the church as they pass them out to us for medical bills from the Indiana insurance fiasco.
When she had her surgery, she was hoping that another seton was not going to be necessary. But, alas, it was and not in her most desireable location.
However, she bounced back from the surgery very nicely and probably pushed herself a little too hard even though she is doing great (a little fatigued at times).
She bounced back so well that she found herself "at home" in the kitchen helping with the VBS meal. She is a real tropper.
Her next appointment is on the 14th. It can not be moved. They have squeazed her in to make this happen with the GI and the surgeon. The small problem came into play because we have a staff retreat on that day.
Within 5 minutes though of Stacey calling and letting me know that the appointment must be made ... a few phone calls, office visit at church was made and we had people watching / picking up kids and someone to go to the hospital with Stacey.
The church people are being sooooooo helpful as we navigate these choppy waters. It is so fantastic to have a supporting congregation around us.
Thus, we will know a lot more on the 14th. We may find out what the next steps will be, we may get her on a treatment plan and we may begin the aggressive medication (humira). Whatever the steps are, I know these things (yuck, that sounded like Glen Beck):
1. The hospial system she is in his AWESOME
2. We have a church who is in our corner
3. We have GREAT insurance where we can rest with ease
Thanks for all the concerns, the prayers and the financial gifts to the church as they pass them out to us for medical bills from the Indiana insurance fiasco.
Friday, July 20, 2007
We Are Home !
It is 4:45, we are home. A 12-hour day. A drive up to the clinic ( about an 1 hr. 15 mins ) and then her procedure / recovery and the drive back.
She is doing great. A little tired, a little drugged, a little off-balanced but doing well. They had to put in another seton - not what she wanted. But in the end, I believe it will be best for her.
I have got to tell you, the waiting at the Clevland Clinic is UNBELIEVABLE ( in a fantastic way ).
They give each family a code and you can watch these boards ( like the airport for arrival / departures ). By looking at the board, you can tell when the patient checked in, when they went to the pre-op room, when they enter operation, when they went to recovery and when they went back to their room.
They also give you a vibrating pager ( like you get at the restaurant ). They page you when they have updates. It vibrates and you go to the front desk if you want the update.
So, I got updates for the following items:
- when she went from the anest to the op room
- when the op began
- when the op was done
- when the surgeon was free to speak to me
- when she was moved to her recovery room
Every single person was extremely friendly and helpful. We also had a family surgery day briefing. They explained everything that was going to occur. They informed us on the boards, the pager system and where to go for any help.
Another nice thing was in the hospital, they have subway, starbucks, mc d's among other restautrants and cafe's and a regular cafeteria.
More later. Thanks for the prayers.
She is doing great. A little tired, a little drugged, a little off-balanced but doing well. They had to put in another seton - not what she wanted. But in the end, I believe it will be best for her.
I have got to tell you, the waiting at the Clevland Clinic is UNBELIEVABLE ( in a fantastic way ).
They give each family a code and you can watch these boards ( like the airport for arrival / departures ). By looking at the board, you can tell when the patient checked in, when they went to the pre-op room, when they enter operation, when they went to recovery and when they went back to their room.
They also give you a vibrating pager ( like you get at the restaurant ). They page you when they have updates. It vibrates and you go to the front desk if you want the update.
So, I got updates for the following items:
- when she went from the anest to the op room
- when the op began
- when the op was done
- when the surgeon was free to speak to me
- when she was moved to her recovery room
Every single person was extremely friendly and helpful. We also had a family surgery day briefing. They explained everything that was going to occur. They informed us on the boards, the pager system and where to go for any help.
Another nice thing was in the hospital, they have subway, starbucks, mc d's among other restautrants and cafe's and a regular cafeteria.
More later. Thanks for the prayers.
Thursday, July 19, 2007
Back To The Drawing Board
Well, my video editing has hit a snag. When I save it, I am unable to save it into the correct format to upload it to the blog. I am sure it is a very simple fix but I can not figure it out tonight.
((((( Trev ))))) can you help me ???
I am using muvee and trying to load it through YouTube. What do I need to save it as in the option format ?
Tomorrow morning, we make up at 3:30 am. I think that is more like waking up during the middle of the night. We are headed up to the Cleveland Clinic for Stacey to have surgery and then to meet with with GI.
My reading material of choice while she is in surgery and loopey land is the following: Silos, Politics, and Turf Wars
Everything in town is covered. My mom is headed over late tomorrow night to be with Stacey but the kids are covered tomorrow and Saturday from individuals from the church. They have a fantastic schedule set up for them and individuals are helping in every area.
Thank-you so much Zion for being there every step of the way and making sure that this weekend is manageable for is. You have covered everything and are willing to do more if needed, it means sooooooooo much.
((((( Trev ))))) can you help me ???
I am using muvee and trying to load it through YouTube. What do I need to save it as in the option format ?
Tomorrow morning, we make up at 3:30 am. I think that is more like waking up during the middle of the night. We are headed up to the Cleveland Clinic for Stacey to have surgery and then to meet with with GI.
My reading material of choice while she is in surgery and loopey land is the following: Silos, Politics, and Turf Wars
Everything in town is covered. My mom is headed over late tomorrow night to be with Stacey but the kids are covered tomorrow and Saturday from individuals from the church. They have a fantastic schedule set up for them and individuals are helping in every area.
Thank-you so much Zion for being there every step of the way and making sure that this weekend is manageable for is. You have covered everything and are willing to do more if needed, it means sooooooooo much.
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