Friday, December 31, 2010
Friday, last day before the first day
Today was a very productive day. Roger spent the day with Mom recording the thoughts and stories of her past. Most will tickle the funny bone, some bring a tear, but hearing the memories through her eyes was another blessing. So many things I either had never realized or had maybe forgotten.
I am so excited and truly feel blessed to have a brother with such wonderful talents. Who knew that his craft would make such an important mark in Mom's legacy. To hear the passion in her voice about the love of her family. A true gift for us all.
Tressa and Christine can yesterday, with the hopes of seeing Ryan & his family today, but melding schedules is not always an easy task. Boyd and Gay (Ron's parents) came to have dinner this evening, so our new years eve party was finished by 6pm! Yep it's official, I are old!
The girls begin their move tomorrow, so I guess you know were I will be! They found a wonderful 3 bedroom home in a great community complete with it's own water park. I'm think'n the monsters are gonna love their aunts this summer!!! (for those of you who are not familiar, the monster men are my most amazing grandsons. The two greatest little gifts on the planet) We are currently awaiting the little princess in June!
It was so nice to hear and see mom laughing today. She has had many phone calls and is loving the freedom of calling when she pleases. It is a true joy to have her here, and I am so grateful that we are in a position to do what we are doing.
Now for my Aunts! Aunt Linda, you need to take care of yourself, as you too have had allot to deal with this past month. Take care of your self! I can only be in one state at a time, and I'm usually in the state of confusion, so get well quick please!!! Prayers are with you daily!
And Aunt Margaret! Don't you be feeling left out and not part of the chest-palpation club!! I need you to keep on being my rock! But you too better take care of yourself and get in to see the doc if you don't get to feeling better! To many people love you!
Here's wishing all a safe an wonderful new year.
I am so excited and truly feel blessed to have a brother with such wonderful talents. Who knew that his craft would make such an important mark in Mom's legacy. To hear the passion in her voice about the love of her family. A true gift for us all.
Tressa and Christine can yesterday, with the hopes of seeing Ryan & his family today, but melding schedules is not always an easy task. Boyd and Gay (Ron's parents) came to have dinner this evening, so our new years eve party was finished by 6pm! Yep it's official, I are old!
The girls begin their move tomorrow, so I guess you know were I will be! They found a wonderful 3 bedroom home in a great community complete with it's own water park. I'm think'n the monsters are gonna love their aunts this summer!!! (for those of you who are not familiar, the monster men are my most amazing grandsons. The two greatest little gifts on the planet) We are currently awaiting the little princess in June!
It was so nice to hear and see mom laughing today. She has had many phone calls and is loving the freedom of calling when she pleases. It is a true joy to have her here, and I am so grateful that we are in a position to do what we are doing.
Now for my Aunts! Aunt Linda, you need to take care of yourself, as you too have had allot to deal with this past month. Take care of your self! I can only be in one state at a time, and I'm usually in the state of confusion, so get well quick please!!! Prayers are with you daily!
And Aunt Margaret! Don't you be feeling left out and not part of the chest-palpation club!! I need you to keep on being my rock! But you too better take care of yourself and get in to see the doc if you don't get to feeling better! To many people love you!
Here's wishing all a safe an wonderful new year.
More of Steves Jewlery
Roger was able to capture some of Steve's pieces he has been working on. He is very dedicated to his art.
To place your order.......just kidding. This is a chance for others to view his handy work.
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Thursday, the day after Wednesday and followed by Friday
As the new year approaches, I guess it is only normal to review the past year. Ours has been filled with both trial and blessings. More blessings than trials I am happy to say.
Today, I drove back to Wichita Falls to moms doctor's, who supplied her with a 2 week complimentary supply of her chemo, hoping that it will be enough until her insurance approves her treatment. The Doctor had to write a letter to the insurance company and make sure that she fits the criteria for the medication. The cost as I said before is $22,000 per month, which breaks down to a mere $261 and change per tablet, but she is suppose to take 3 per day. Chump change really!!!!
But we are so grateful for the blessing of the sample package. She is able to take it at home, with no 5-7 hours therapy session at the Cancer Treatment Facility. It is nice for her to do this in the comfort of our home.
Poor Steve gets really bored around here. But he has been busy making his jewelry. Some very magnificent pieces. We must make sure we don't let him get lost in all this. I am sure he would welcome calls as does mom.
She had an awesome day yesterday and today. I think she is feeling better than she has in a long time.
I am going to apologize now to any and all who I was not able to notify many in person. I had planned to make calls as Mom did not want the news made public until either she or I had a chance to let people know. Now that it is published in the Sunday Sidewalk, there may be many of you who did not get to find out as we had planned. So again I am so sorry if I had hurt any ones feelings. It has just been a bit overwhelming to say the least. My brain is running in 40 different directions.
Be sure to write, ask questions or call. She loves hearing from others. Thank you to all who have called it helps her so much to hear from loved ones and friends. If she does not answer, leave a message and she will call you back.
Luv to all and wishing blessings to all who are in need!
Today, I drove back to Wichita Falls to moms doctor's, who supplied her with a 2 week complimentary supply of her chemo, hoping that it will be enough until her insurance approves her treatment. The Doctor had to write a letter to the insurance company and make sure that she fits the criteria for the medication. The cost as I said before is $22,000 per month, which breaks down to a mere $261 and change per tablet, but she is suppose to take 3 per day. Chump change really!!!!
But we are so grateful for the blessing of the sample package. She is able to take it at home, with no 5-7 hours therapy session at the Cancer Treatment Facility. It is nice for her to do this in the comfort of our home.
Poor Steve gets really bored around here. But he has been busy making his jewelry. Some very magnificent pieces. We must make sure we don't let him get lost in all this. I am sure he would welcome calls as does mom.
She had an awesome day yesterday and today. I think she is feeling better than she has in a long time.
I am going to apologize now to any and all who I was not able to notify many in person. I had planned to make calls as Mom did not want the news made public until either she or I had a chance to let people know. Now that it is published in the Sunday Sidewalk, there may be many of you who did not get to find out as we had planned. So again I am so sorry if I had hurt any ones feelings. It has just been a bit overwhelming to say the least. My brain is running in 40 different directions.
Be sure to write, ask questions or call. She loves hearing from others. Thank you to all who have called it helps her so much to hear from loved ones and friends. If she does not answer, leave a message and she will call you back.
Luv to all and wishing blessings to all who are in need!
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Another Day
Today mom's zest for life was allot stronger than I have seen since we went to pick her up. Even though the challenges of the medication continue to torment us, a great power of hope prevails. The doctors office called to say they had a 14 day supply (free just need to pick it up) to get her started while we wait for the insurance to approve the treatment plan. Another blessing we can be grateful for. I find multiple blessings-daily.
It's good to see her laugh and joke. Please be sure to comment on her blog, she looks every day to see who writes. So far, Aunt Margaret is the only one who has posted any comments....hint hint.. to the rest of you!!!!
Today's a good day, hopes for many more to come.
It's good to see her laugh and joke. Please be sure to comment on her blog, she looks every day to see who writes. So far, Aunt Margaret is the only one who has posted any comments....hint hint.. to the rest of you!!!!
Today's a good day, hopes for many more to come.
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Mom's first Doctors Visit
We met with a most amazing oncologist today. He was very caring, listened and was also very upfront and did not beat around the bush. Mom is not a candidate for having her kidney removed, nor does he feel she is up to having a biopsy, as she would have additional complications due to other health issues, she has.
So, he suggests the oral chemo. This consists of three pills a day for 4 week, off for 2 weeks and then another round of 4 weeks. This can be done in the comfort of our home, so no IV's or hospital stays, which in itself is a blessing. The down side, it may not work! But considering the alternatives, seems the most appropriate move at this point.
I took the prescription to the pharmacy, came back to 'pick it up' and found that the cost of this medication treatment is $22,000 per month. Yes $22,000-that was not a type-O, so if anyone has any spare change......ha ha I am pretty sure the reaction on my face was priceless. I had to pick my jaw up off the floor with a forklift! They are working on medicare and numerous Angel networks and drug companies. Hopefully this will cover the co payment, So, with that being said, please add those fine folks to your prayer list.
We will continue to work on building her strength, take each day-one at a time, and put it in the hands of the almighty man himself! Faith does miraculous things.
Thanks to all who have called and emailed today. It means alot to her to hear from loved ones.
So, he suggests the oral chemo. This consists of three pills a day for 4 week, off for 2 weeks and then another round of 4 weeks. This can be done in the comfort of our home, so no IV's or hospital stays, which in itself is a blessing. The down side, it may not work! But considering the alternatives, seems the most appropriate move at this point.
I took the prescription to the pharmacy, came back to 'pick it up' and found that the cost of this medication treatment is $22,000 per month. Yes $22,000-that was not a type-O, so if anyone has any spare change......ha ha I am pretty sure the reaction on my face was priceless. I had to pick my jaw up off the floor with a forklift! They are working on medicare and numerous Angel networks and drug companies. Hopefully this will cover the co payment, So, with that being said, please add those fine folks to your prayer list.
We will continue to work on building her strength, take each day-one at a time, and put it in the hands of the almighty man himself! Faith does miraculous things.
Thanks to all who have called and emailed today. It means alot to her to hear from loved ones.
Monday, December 27, 2010
The anticipation builds
As the day comes to an end, I can't help but wonder what tomorrow will bring. Mom will see the oncologist for the first time, which will determine were we go from here. I know none of use can change the outcome, but the unknown...the wondering...and the hopes of what he may have to say, may cause a sleepless night.
I guess this is were the faith in our Heavenly Father comes into play in a bigger than life way. The love of our family and friends and the support of all those involved sure makes it a better situation, if that is possible.
No doubt, the challenges we face will be difficult at times, but together we can do anything!
I am just so grateful to know the Gospel and to have such an awesome influences in my life. I can't imagine trying to attempt it without God and his most wonderful Son, Jesus Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit!
Tomorrow is truly going to be,....another day!
I guess this is were the faith in our Heavenly Father comes into play in a bigger than life way. The love of our family and friends and the support of all those involved sure makes it a better situation, if that is possible.
No doubt, the challenges we face will be difficult at times, but together we can do anything!
I am just so grateful to know the Gospel and to have such an awesome influences in my life. I can't imagine trying to attempt it without God and his most wonderful Son, Jesus Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit!
Tomorrow is truly going to be,....another day!
Sunday, December 26, 2010
Blessings of Christmas
Christmas Day has come and gone, but the time was well spent. It was wonderful to have my brother and two of our daughters home for Christmas Eve and Christmas day. Ron's parents came to celebrate Christmas day with us. Having family for the holidays is one of my favorite blessings. Although not everyone was here, we were able to talk to most everyone. Technology is a wonderful thing.
As always, there was more food than we could eat, and it was tough to decide what to eat first, second, third,...etcetera.......pretty sure there was more than one stuffed turkey in the house! Naps were the late afternnon activity of choice.
Mom had a great day, and tolerated it well. Today was a little rougher for her, but overall moving and Christmas all in one week has been very good for her I think. Steve says this is the happiest he has seen her in a long time. She has her ups and downs, but then again we all do, don't we?
How wonderful to receive all these blessings from our Heavenly Father at such a special time of year.
Luv and Holiday wishes to all.
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Setteling In.........
We are slowly finding a home for all Mom & Steve's belongings, so they can feel at home and not like they are tuck away somewhere. It has been fun listening to stories, and I know Steve is more than impressed with the weather. It was cooler today, but 48 is still better than the -6 I had the privilege of experiencing while I spent the 7 hours in Sidney. That was all the snow and winter I needed for the year! ha ha
Mom's computer is up and running now, so she can find her e-mails you send her. She has a dedicated phone line (940)-894-2029. Mailing address is PO Box 776 Decatur, TX 76234
She would love mail as well. She is still learning facebook, but I would expect she will have it mastered by new years! Tomorrow we will begin the Christmas dinner feast preparation. She is really looking forward to Roger being here for Christmas. Shellie and Clayton will be missed, but we can wait until New Years to see them. It will be tough, but we will manage through it!
Brandon will be here following new years, so I will be lov'n have the kids home, although short. We are also anticipating the visit of many family member on Mom's side. May not be the reunion we had planned, but it will be awesome just as well.
Nap time for me, as tomorrow is another day.!
Today has been busy and full, but fun. Gotta love the holidays.
Mom's computer is up and running now, so she can find her e-mails you send her. She has a dedicated phone line (940)-894-2029. Mailing address is PO Box 776 Decatur, TX 76234
She would love mail as well. She is still learning facebook, but I would expect she will have it mastered by new years! Tomorrow we will begin the Christmas dinner feast preparation. She is really looking forward to Roger being here for Christmas. Shellie and Clayton will be missed, but we can wait until New Years to see them. It will be tough, but we will manage through it!
Brandon will be here following new years, so I will be lov'n have the kids home, although short. We are also anticipating the visit of many family member on Mom's side. May not be the reunion we had planned, but it will be awesome just as well.
Nap time for me, as tomorrow is another day.!
Today has been busy and full, but fun. Gotta love the holidays.
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
And so it begins............
Mom is officially in Texas now. She is liking the warmer weather and Steve is enjoying his vacation.
We have been so blessed by all the angles among us who helped make the trip possible. From those who helped with the actual travel to those who were behind the scenes doing all the rest of the things that made the transition so quick and painless for everyone.
We enjoyed the trip down. The weather was more than cooperative, although Wyoming had its challenges for a moment.
Our home is busy, but we are enjoying all the quality time and the holidays. Baking is to commence sometime tomorrow, and plans for being stuffed on Christmas (This is for the people ...not the turkey, by the way!)
Mom has asked that you post stories and positive comments. She will post, as she is feeling up to it.
I will post as I have time to keep everyone up n the progress. She sees the oncologist on Tuesday the 28. Following the prognosis, I will post the plan of attack.
Happy holidays and love to the friends and family!
We have been so blessed by all the angles among us who helped make the trip possible. From those who helped with the actual travel to those who were behind the scenes doing all the rest of the things that made the transition so quick and painless for everyone.
We enjoyed the trip down. The weather was more than cooperative, although Wyoming had its challenges for a moment.
Our home is busy, but we are enjoying all the quality time and the holidays. Baking is to commence sometime tomorrow, and plans for being stuffed on Christmas (This is for the people ...not the turkey, by the way!)
Mom has asked that you post stories and positive comments. She will post, as she is feeling up to it.
I will post as I have time to keep everyone up n the progress. She sees the oncologist on Tuesday the 28. Following the prognosis, I will post the plan of attack.
Happy holidays and love to the friends and family!
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