Days 55 - 59

Days 55 - 59 - February 24- 28 - I knew I was behind in this, but not that far. I guess I've been more tired and sleepier in the evenings than I thought. Plus, I think my days are off. I think starting in March, I'll just use the date. Will be easier for me to keep track of.

My last post was of Joannie's skate, so that was Wednesday, I think. Her skate was on Tuesday, but I imagine it was too late after to do it. So, this will be Thurs - Sunday.

Thursday the girls were here while Jodi went to her doctor's appointment. We had a good time together. They were watching something on TV and I needed to do something, so left the room. A little while later Bethany came in and said, "Nana, we aren't allowed to watch this show." So, I went into the living room and changed the channel. I thought that was very obedient of them to tell me they weren't allowed to watch something. Sometimes parents forget to say if something is forbidden. Usually the child won't say anything. Good for Bethie!! I am thankful that she is learning obedience, even though I know it is hard sometimes.

Friday we went to Elaine and Leon's after supper. I wanted to go through Dad's photo albums to see if I could find some pictures of Dale and I for our book. We had a good time looking at the pictures. Leon had fun teasing Elaine about her huge glasses (didn't we ALL have them?), but we did look rather like bugs back then! :) I did find some pictures, but I also found a picture Dad had taken of my mom and dad when they had visited back in 1980. It was such a good picture of them, almost the best I have besides ones done in portrait studios. I'm thankful for pictures and for the memories they evoke of our loved ones and good times gone by.

Saturday was just another regular day for us. It's our "run errands" day. It was cold and windy, but the sun came out and warmed things up a bit. Promise of things to come, I guess. I'm thankful we are still able to get around a do things for ourselves, even if sometimes we hurt afterward! Don't forget the cane!!

Sunday - Lucas was here for some "alone" time with us. He was in school on Thurs. and missed coming. He watched the race with Papa and tried to see some of the hockey game. We love having him here. The closing ceremonies for the Olympics was on, too. I'm glad it's over. I like watching some of the events, but 17 days is a lot! Me, I slept this afternoon and got a good nap in - THAT'S what I'm thankful for! And now my bed is calling me again. I'm thankful for that, too. Goodnight!

Day 54

These are pictures I took from the tv of Joannie Rochette's short program Wednesday evening.Here she is before she starts talking to her coach. I wanted to get the back of her costume, it was so pretty. She looked wonderful despite all she's been through since Sunday. She is skating out to center ice to a standing ovation and cheering and adoring crowds. It must have helped her a lot to know the whole country was behind her, no matter how she did.

This took when their camera was just changing from her face to a long shot. I thought it turned out cool. Joannie doing one of her 3 spirals in her sequence. She was so right on for this skate. It was emotional for everyone watching - not just for her!

Realizing she had done the whole program with no mistakes, she hugs her coach and bursts into tears.

When her score came up in the "Kiss and Cry" she was already overcome with emotion, I don't even know if she realized how well she really did. She is in 3rd place going into the long program on Thursday evening.

Day 53 - I just had to post these pictures. Joannie is one of my favorite figure skaters and when I heard her mother had died suddenly on Sunday of a heart attack, not too long after she had arrived in Vancouver to watch Joannie skate, my heart just dropped. It's hard enough to lose a parent, but to lose one only days before the start of something you have been working for all your life, it has to be horrific! They say she is a true champion and is trying to just "do her job" before she really grieves, but I can't imagine how anyone can do that. She is young - in her mid 20's - and her mom wasn't very old -in her 50's. It would be like how it would be for Jen if I died. That's really hard to comprehend. I was 35 when my dad died and that was hard enough. I was 45 when my mom died and that, too, was hard. It's never easy to lose a parent, but this has to be especially hard. I guess what I am most thankful for is that when my parents died, as hard as it was, I knew where they were and that I would see them again some day. My friends I've reconnected with on facebook speak often of the glorious reunion we are going to have. It will be glorious and that's all I wish for my children and everyone, that they are sure of their salvation so that we can all meet again in heaven. I don't know Joannie's religious affiliation, but being French, she was probably brought up Catholic. I pray for her that she will find peace from the Lord and if He isn't her personal Saviour that He will be someday. I'm praying there will be someone who comes into her life who will be a witness to her. That's all I can do. God bless her.

Day 53

"Do not be anxious for anything, but in everything by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God which transcends all understanding will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6,7

Day 53 - February 22nd - My birthday - I guess I should say what I am thankful for about myself, since I have been doing the family's on their birthdays. Hmmm - well, I'm thankful I'm here, I still have my faculties (well, I DO), I'm relatively healthy and my hope is still in the Lord.

I got a video of an interview they did on 100 Huntley Street from Glenda Lees. Her nephew, Lyndon Rush, is one of the men's bobsleigh team that is competing at the Olympics. We knew the Rushes when we lived in Humboldt and Lyndon is around Jen's age (I think). Anyway, he has a great testimony and they interviewed him about being at the Olympics, etc. This verse I put at the top was the one he quoted. He said it is the one verse that has always helped him in this sport. Then, when the bobsledder was killed the first day, he said it meant even more. He could worry and fret each time he gets into the sled, but his hope is in the Lord and he knows that whatever happens, he will ok. He said he prays before each run and the men have come to depend on his praying and remind him if he is busy and almost forgets. He said, "There are no atheists in foxholes, or in a bobsled". I was very impressed with his testimony. So, I, too, am thankful that my hope is in the Lord and I can cast all my cares on Him because He cares for me.

Dale and I had a nice supper out tonight at the Keg. The steak wasn't nearly as juicy and "mmm" as it usually is, but we had a good time. I put a candle on my piece of double caramel cheesecake and was very happy. Thanks for all your well-wishes.

Pictures - 47 - 53

Tuesday - February 16th - Picture 47 -I hadn't done wash in awhile, so had, well, not a lot, but more than I usually do in one day. I sometimes only do one load at a time. We don't go through a lot of laundry with just the two of us. But, it was what I spent my day doing, so here's the picture. Wednesday - February 17th - Picture 48 - I went to see my new doctor at the Broadway Medical Clinic. That killed the whole afternoon as I had to go for an x-ray as well.

Thursday - February 18th - Picture 49 - The final of the men's figure skating at the Olympics. The new scoring system lived up to its reputation and having a quadruple jump did not help the returning Russian win. A good strong program did it for Evan Lysacek of the US. I was so thrilled for him!

Friday - February 19th - Picture - 50 - Not my birthday, but my birthday celebration. We went to Nortown Bowl and had pizza and DQ cake. Then the kids bowled on their lane with the bumpers and the adults on the other lane. Steve won his game and Bethie won hers. It was so much fun.

Saturday - February 20th - Picture 51 - This is our regular routine for Sat. I couldn't get all the grocery bags into one picture, but these are a few. We don't eat as much now, either, with just the two of us, but it fills up our cupboard space when we bring it home.

Sunday, February 21st - Picture 52 - It had been sort of warm and then got really cold again and the water dripped on the van. The first time I couldn't get the door open. It was pull, push, pull, push, then it finally opened. It is still there and too hard to chip away. Maybe if it warms up a bit this week it will melt! We are so tired of winter!

Monday - February 22nd - Picture 53 - Finally, my actual birthday. It was a quiet day. I got many well-wishes from friends on facebook and calls from family. Dale and I went out to the Keg for supper. The steak wasn't as good as we usually get - rather dry, in fact - but the grilled flatbread was delicious! We came homeand I had a piece of double caramel cheesecake from M&M meats. It is so yummy and I added the candle and said, "Happy Birthday to me!" (Dale doesn't sing). It was a good day - the Canadian ice dance team of Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir won gold and beat a crummy Russian team. I was so thrilled!!!

Days 51 & 52

"So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in Him, rooted and built up in Him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught and overflowing with thankfulness." Colossians 2:6,7

Days 51 & 52 - February 20 & 21 - Yesterday morning around 6 a.m. I awoke with a migraine. It had been building for quite awhile. I remembered waking earlier (?) and feeling it, but falling back to sleep. So, it was pretty intense. I didn't think it was going to go away. Dale came back from his rounds and the fire alarm going off around 9 and looked in on me at 9:30. The headache wasn't nearly as intense, but it did hurt. I got up and made some coffee and that seemed to help a little bit. (See Jen, I don't just get them on Sunday morning) So, we got off on our usual Saturday grocery shopping late, but thankfully there still weren't too many people out and about. I'm really thankful Dale doesn't go anywhere on Saturdays anymore. Not only do we have that time together, but he gets a chance to rest, too. There for awhile it seemed he was never going to stop, it was go, go, go. Not good for someone fast approaching 60! His body finally said STOP and he listened. Not having to be on stand-by has been good for him, too. Ahh, the joys of growing older!

On a side note - our church is sponsoring a women's workshop entitled "Caring for Aging Parents". I'm sure it is geared to those with parents who are closer to 75-80+, but Dale and I looked at each other and said, "The kids should go to this!". We'll be there sooner or later and we want them to know how to tell us "No" and all that stuff. Might as well be prepared!

Today our pastor preached from Colossians 2:6,7. He has been doing a series in Colossians and it has been so good! I didn't sleep much, well, not at all, last night and thought I'd be falling asleep in church, but the sermon was so good I didn't even think of sleeping. We are to be "struggling" for our own soul's stability and struggling for the souls of others. If we aren't doing that we are stagnant. He really emphasized we have to be moving forward in our spiritual life. I'm so thankful for our church and its teaching. I'm thankful we don't get watered down sermons, but are taught the true principles set down for us in the Word. Thank you, Lord for these men of God who are our pastors!!

Day 50

"Happy Birthday to you,

Only one will not do.

Born again means salvation.

How many have you?"

- sung at East Mount Baptist Church

Day 50 - February 19th - I put that song up there because we celebrated my birthday on this day instead of on Monday. I had decided that I wanted to do something more than meet at someone's house, eat, have cake and just sit around. So, I booked 2 lanes at a bowling alley, bought a DQ ice cream cake, ordered pizza, got plates, etc. and made goodie bags for the kids. I was going to get balloons, but I'm glad I didn't. We weren't sure what to expect or how it would turn out, although I knew the older grandkids were excited about the bowling party.

We got to the alley around 6, found a table, got our drinks and had a good time around the table, eating the pizza. Then we put candles on the cake, lit them and sang "H.B."(the normal one). I even heard the grandkids singing!

One of our lanes had bumpers on it so the kids' balls didn't always go in the gutter. Jodi and I and Dale sat and watched the kids while the other adults bowled on the other lane. I took pictures and most turned out - a little dark and grainy because it was phantom bowling (I didn't know it was). The kids had a blast and I think the adults did, too. I know Dale and I had fun watching the kids. Jason would take Evan up to the line. Evan would put the ball down and Jason would give it a big push. It was so cute. He was so tired toward the end, he would just go up and lie down on his stomach and watch the ball go down the lane.

Bethany and Lucas were doing pretty good. Bethany is quite a sportsperson. She does really well on their Wii sports. She ended up being the winner of the kids with 105 pts. Lucas was second and even took it well. He had gotten a strike, so was happy with that. He excels at the race games on Wii, so it's only fair he doesn't win everything!

Erin was so cute, too, with her little skirt with shorts attached and striped tights. Xander was pretty good and gave the most comical gestures and head tilts - must be watching the adults. All-in-all it was a very good time. I am so thankful I thought of it. The grandkids are already asking when Papa's birthday is, so we can do it again! Gotta love them!!!

This is how they watched the whole thing!

Erin in great form and great clothes! Wish they showed up better!

Lucas shows off his form - he didn't like doing it between his legs, too babyish!

Xander watching to see if he knocks down any pins. Sometimes he would cock his head to the side, so cute!!

Evan getting ready for his big throw (and Daddy getting ready to give it a push) ...And the "trophy" goes to...

Steve and Bethany!!!

Day 49

There's supposed to be a song or something here, but what I wanted to put on here, I couldn't manage to do. It was a wonderful video a friend put on facebook. So, if you want to hear the song, let me know and I can email it to you.

Day 49 - February 18th - It's actually almost 1 a.m., but I'm still up - probably because I was watching men's figure skating in the Olympics and it didn't get done until almost midnight. I was so pumped over Evan Lysacek's win that I just couldn't sleep or anything!

Tonight I watched Lucas, Bethany and Erin while Steve and Jodi went to their care group. I'm so glad Jodi is feeling up to getting out and about. The kids were good. They played Wii sports and I took pictures and videotaped them. Then, we checked to see if the figure skating was on and it was. So, I got the girls interested in that while Lucas amused himself. I am determined to have at least one grandchild who will watch figure skating with me!! Dale got 2 to watch the races with him, it's only fair!!

Bethany even said she liked it and I told her to make sure she watches the women! They are prettier to watch! It was getting close to bedtime and Lucas had a big pile of legos on the chair. So I told him it was time to put them away, then I got busy talking to Bethany and Erin. I saw him putting them on the windowsill behind the curtain (that's where he got them), but didn't say anything. Then he came over with a sheepish look on his face, like he'd been naughty - you know the look - and I said what? He said I only have 3 legos, bet you don't know where the others are. I said I had seen him put them on the windowsill. Well, sisters being sisters, the girls had to run over and look. But, brothers being brothers, Lucas didn't want them to and the inevitable happened. They got knocked off, there was madness and arm flinging and yep, someone got hurt. I comforted the crying and had everyone get their pj's on. When I went to tuck the girls in and pray with them, we talked about how everyone was wrong in the "scuffle" and that we should ask Jesus to forgive us and say we are sorry. Bethie said I should pray, so I told them they could talk to Jesus in their minds and He'd hear them and they could do it while I prayed. So, I prayed about the situation and asked Jesus to forgive the kids and help them to show love to each other. Then Bethie wanted to pray, but just thanked Jesus for the day. Erin did, too. When I went to Lucas' room, I told him what we had talked about and how we should tell Jesus we are sorry and ask his forgiveness. So, I prayed with him and then he said he'd pray later. I hope and pray they think about that a little and that some small part of it will stick with them. I am thankful I had the wisdom to know what to say. I even told Bethie I was going to kiss her goodnight, whether she wanted me to or not (she doesn't like being kissed) and I gave her a big smooch on her cheek. It made her laugh! I love these grandchildren the Lord has given us - all of them!!!

Day 48

"I have found a deep peace that I never had known

And a joy this world could not afford.

Since I yielded control of my body and soul

To my wonderful, wonderful Lord.

My wonderful Lord, My wonderful Lord,

By angels and seraphs in heaven adored!

I bow at Thy shrine, my Savior divine,

My wonderful, wonderful Lord."

Day 48 - February 17th - I saw a new doctor today. I think he will work out ok. He was very nice and said he'd take me on. (Don't laugh, once a doctor said I was to sick for her to look after!) I got in pretty quick, so that is always a plus. I like it, too, because it is close to home, so when I do feel really punk, I don't have to go far. He poked and prodded my leg, though, and boy does it hurt now!!! He sent me for an x-ray, so I hope something will tell him why it is still so sore and swollen. It'll be 2 weeks tomorrow! I'm thankful there are still doctors here in the city who take new patients. I'm sorry mine got sick and had to retire. It's always hard to leave a place where they know you so well and all. Oh well...

Day 47

"Who is on the Lord's side?

Who will serve the King?

Who will be His helpers other lives to bring?

Who will leave the world's side?

Who will face the foe?

Who is on the Lord's side,

Who for Him will go?

By Thy call of mercy, by Thy grace divine,

We are on the Lord's side,

Savior we are Thine."

Day 47 - February 16th - I heard this song sung today on facebook. The man recorded himself singing all 6 parts a cappella and it was amazing! I could have listened to it for hours!! I am so thankful for the gift God has given us to be able to sing for Him and harmonize. I'm afraid true harmony like it should be sung is lost on the youth today! I remember being in A Cappella class in high school and we learned about harmony and we sounded good, but there is nothing like a choir ministering for their Lord and singing so harmoniously it sounds like one voice!! Only God can give that kind of singing! I know it has something to do with the Holy Spirit coming out in the voice of the singer. I'm not saying every believer sings like that - there have been quite a few I knew who couldn't "carry a tune in a bucket", but they usually sang anyway - for the joy of the Lord. I pray that the Bible schools today will continue teaching harmony to their choirs and groups and that Christian youths get a chance to hear them. I truly believe we will be singing in heaven and I have a stronger feeling it will be a cappella! Oh, the harmony that will ring through those gates of heaven!!

Pictures - 40 - 46

Tuesday - Day 40 - February 9th - I went to see Jodi in the hospital and she was doing so much better. A student nurse had washed her hair and she had gotten all her tubes out. She was walking around and looked so good! She even let me take a picture of her.

Wednesday - Day 41 - February 10th - Lucas got strep throat and Bethany had an ear infection, so they didn't go to school this day. Steve took the girls with him to the hospital to see their mom, but thought Lucas shouldn't go. So, he spent the day with me. Here he is amusing himself with Papa's crokinole board. He wasn't playing crokinole, though, he was racing the buttons around he board! Those boys will race anywhere with anything!!! Thursday - Day 42 - February 11th - This was the Scrabble game I thought I was going to win. I had a really big lead on Pam, but she pulled closer and closer to me and in the end, it was a draw!! I'm still trying to win one from her!! Friday - Day 43 - February 12th - Dale had the day off. We went for haircuts and then had the afternoon to kill, so we decided to go check out the new Walmart Supercentre. It is big and had lots of stuff!

Saturday - Day 44 - February 13th - It was bitterly cold this day, so Dale said we were going to "veg" all day. So this is him vegging!

Sunday - Day 45 - February 14th - Valentine's Day - the 52nd running of the Daytona 500 - the start of the 2010 NASCAR season! It was a very long race with two total stops for "road repair" and Dale watched it all. I did catch him sleeping once, but it was during a stop. I had to use two pictures, as Lucas said the one I liked was just the cars driving behind the pace car. The "blurry" one was more exciting! Whatever!

Monday - Day 46 - February 15th - we went over to see Jodi and give the kids their valentine candy since they weren't at church on Sunday. Steve came down with strep throat, too. Jodi is on so many antibiotics, she should be ok. Lucas talked Papa into playing Wii NASCAR with him. Papa was finally getting the hang of it when his back and knees gave out and it was time to quit!

Day 46

"Sing the wondrous Love of Jesus.

Sing His mercy and His grace.

In the mansions bright and blessed

He'll prepare for us a place.

When we all get to Heaven.

What a day of rejoicing that will be.

When we all see Jesus,

We'll sing and shout the victory."

Day 46 - Family Day - February 15th - This song was a favorite of my grandma Williams and my dad. I can still hear both of them singing it. If Iwasn't sitting with my mom and dad in church, I was sitting with my grandma on the right side of the church, about 4 pews back from the front, over by the wall. It was her spot and everyone knew she sat there. She was a wonderful woman of God. She loved the Lord, loved what He had done for her and how He had gotten her through the grief of losing 3 baby boys and her husband at about age 45 or 50 of a burst aneurysm. She also lived to see one daughter die of cancer and a granddaughter die in a horrible car accident. She didn't live much longer and I really still miss her. She was a loving grandmother.

I'm thankful for my grandma. I'm thankful for the things she taught me about heaven and hell and Jesus, our Savior. I'm also thankful for the family that "adopted" me when I married Dale. I appreciated all they did to make me feel welcome and a true daughter/sister. I am thankful, also, for Aunt Louise and Uncle Eric who took us as their own when Mom Berkan died. They have been faithful over the years, writing, praying for us and looking after us when we go for a visit. They are wonderful Christian people, as well.

So, today on Family day that is what I am thankful for. ALL my family!!!

Day 45 - Valentine's Day

"I Love you, Lord

And I lift my voice

To worship You.

Oh my soul rejoice.

Take joy, my King,

In what you hear.

May it be a sweet, sweet sound

In Your ear!"

Day 45 - Valentine's Day - I think Valentine's day was created by card makers and chocolate makers to sell their wares between Christmas and Mother's day. I figured out that there is a special day in each month but August (except here in Canada, where we have Sask. day the first Monday). There's New Year's, Valentine's, St. Patrick's, Easter, April Fool's (in case Easter is in March), Mother's, Father's, The First/Fourth, Labor, Thanksgiving (Columbus), Remembrance/Veteran's (Thanksgiving) and Christmas (Boxing)days. After awhile nothing seems special anymore. I used to have it pretty good. Dale would take me out for supper on Valentine's day and then on my birthday 8 days later! But, it really doesn't make a whole lot of difference to me anymore. I wasn't even "upset" that the 52nd running of the Daytona 500 was on Valentine's day and Dale paid more attention to the race than he did to me. I "retaliated" by watching the Olympics - Pairs figure skating short program for the rest of the evening. Guess we are old and settled with each other and don't need a special day to remind each other how much we are in love. I am truly thankful for my husband and for the laughter we share and the way he listens to me when I am happy about figure skating or ranting about something - his eyes sort of glass over, but then, mine sort of do, too, when he talks racing - although I bet I know more about racing than he does figure skating! Anyway, God put us together for a reason and I guess it was to grow old together and love each other despite the illnesses and all that other stuff that goes along with aging. Like he said yesterday, "We said "in sickness and in health"! So true, so true!! Thank you Lord for my wonderful husband!

Day 44

"It's the song of the soul set free

And it's melody is ringing.

It's the song of the soul set free.

Joy and peace to me it's bringing.

It's the song of the soul set free

And my heart is ever singing -

Hallelujah

Hallelujah

The song of the soul set free!"

Day 44 - A quiet day for Dale and I. He had yesterday off, so we got our hair cut, bought groceries, picked up his work truck after it had its oil changed, went on our supper date and watched the opening ceremonies of the Olympics. Or rather, watched part of it. We both hated it and stopped watching. So, we missed the lighting of the cauldron. I totally forgot about it altogether! Later, I was going to win big time in my scrabble game with Pam, but it ended in a draw! It was crazy! So, today we basically did nothing. Oh, I swept and swiffer mopped the kitchen and entryway, because it was driving me crazy and called to see how Jodi was doing, but other than that, we vegged. (Well, Dale totally vegged)

I am thankful for relaxing days like this. I have a HUGE pile of laundry to do, but I'm not even going to look at it. It can wait until Monday. It's another day off (Family Day), so Dale won't need work clothes.

Yesterday, we went to the new Walmart Superstore to see what it was like. It was a typical Walmart. Lots of people, but we weren't in any hurry, so didn't mind the wait in line. It was fun to just leisurely walk through it and see what they had.

My rash is clearing up and has stopped itching, so I'm thankful for that, too.

Tomorrow is Sunday and we get to see Xander and Evan, Jason and Sandra. Don't know if Steve and his three will be out, as he has strep throat now. The ladies are away at retreat and because it's a holiday weekend, there is breakfast at church.

Day 41 & 42

"It only takes a spark to get a fire going.

And soon all those around will warm up to its glowing.

That's how it is with God's love.

Once you've experienced it,

you want to sing, it's fresh like spring,

you want to Pass It On."

Day 41 - I was so tired last night I just couldn't sit at the computer and write. This crazy disease of mine is like that. I get so extremely tired for seemingly no reason at all. I can sleep and sleep and still feel tired. I am thankful it isn't as bad as it could be. I could be having kidney problems or heart problems or any number of vital organ difficulties. But, most of mine is just the fatigue. It is taxing at time - especially when there are things to do, but I just can't get up the energy to do them. So, although I'm not thankful I have Lupus, I am thankful it isn't as bad as it could be.

Day 42 - Today Jodi came home from the hospital. I have to say both Dale and I were very concerned about her. Not worried, we left her in God's hands, but terribly concerned - for the pain she was in and the seemingly cavalier way some doctors were treating her. I am thankful for the doctors at the Pasqua hospital who realized she wasn't kidding when she said she was in horrible pain and it had nothing to do with her previous surgery. She knew she should be feeling better and she just wasn't. I guess we all have to realize that we have to be pushy when it comes to being treated by doctors. Who knows our bodies better than we do?? So, I am thankful for those doctors and for the good care she received in the hospital.

Days 39 & 40

"When I started my journaey in fresh childlike faith

I believed that the Lord's way was best.

I would read in His Word how He mothered the bird

And grieved when it fell from its nest.

How I felt His delight when I chose to do right

And I prayed I would not make Him sad.

We would meet on the way in the cool of the day

What a pure, sweet communion we had.

---

Oh, but now more than ever, I cherish the Cross. More than ever I sit at His feet.

All the miles of my journey have proved my Lord true

And He is so precious to me.

---

The road I have traveled has sometimes been steep

Through wild, jagged places of life.

Sometimes I've stumbled and fallen so hard

That the stones cut my soul like a knife.

But the staff of my Shepherd would reach out to me.

And lift me to cool pastures green.

The oil of the Spirit anointing my wounds.

There I'd rest by the clear, healing stream.

---

Oh, but now more than ever I cherish the Cross.

More than ever I sit at His feet.

All the miles of my journey have proved my Lord true

And He is so precious to me.

---

Is love's old, sweet story to good to be true?

Do you find all this hard to believe?

Has the cruel world we live in so battered your heart

That the hurt child inside you can't grieve?

I can't say I blame you, I've been where you are.

But all I can say is, it's true.

You're wanted, you're precious, you're the love of His heart

And the Old Rugged Cross was for you.

---

Oh, but now more than ever I cherish the Cross.

More than ever I sit at His feet.

All the miles of my journey have proved my Lord true

And He is so precious to me.

Yes, He is so precious to me."

---

"More Than Ever" - Gaither Vocal Band

---

Day 39 - This was Monday. Jodi had surgery the week before on Friday and I had been up to see her on Saturday. She had a tube in her nose, catheter in her bladder and a tube coming out of her abdomen, plus two IV lines. She was really "wired"! Oh and an oxygen tube at her nose. She could medicate herself with Demerol and was pretty dopey. On Sunday, she had her glasses on and looked a little more normal. She had been up, sitting in a chair. Still had all the tubes, but was hoping to get them out on Monday.

I didn't go to see her on Monday, but Jen did and told me she looked wonderful. No tube in her nose! And she had been up walking! I was so encouraged!!

ENCOURAGED; ENCOURAGMENT - Those two words have come to mean a lot to me in the last little while. I understand more how people need encouragement in their lives. Not just their physical lives, but in their spiritual lives as well.

When the nurse was getting Jodi up to walk on Monday, he had to encourage her to go slowly and that it would get easier. And it did! But, if he had just said, "Don't be such a baby! Get up and walk!" She probably would have done it, but so grudgingly. But, now she says the more she does it, the better it is.

When Jen called and said how Jo was doing, I was encouraged! That made me feel good and happy and I praised God for allowing the doctors to find what was wrong with her and fix it! Now she is healing the way she should be healing. She wasn't doing that before!

I am thankful for people who encourage us - Craig is a great encourager and Dale is slowly becoming one. Jen encourages with her love and smile. When I get a hug and "I love you" from Jason, I am encouraged. When I see our 5 sweet grandkids playing together so happily, I am encouraged. "God is in His heaven (and here with us) and all's right with the world." (That's a quote from somewhere. It's not really true, but that's how it feels to the person who has been encouraged and feels that God is there with them!).

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Day 40 - Tuesday - This was NOT a day for thankfulness on my part. I guess I would have to say I am thankful I had a pretty good night's sleep.

The day started out good. I went to see Jodi that afternoon. She looked really good. One of the student nurses had washed her hair and she looked almost perky. All the tubes, etc. were out, except for the IV's and she had been weaning herself off the demerol. She had been having normal bodily functions and was doing well!! I had a good visit with her. We went for a walk - probably harder on her than on me. At one point she had to stop and cough. Now for those of you who have never had abdominal surgery, this is a very hard and painful thing to do. So, she leaned against the wall, I got behind her and hugged her, holding on to her abdomen. She got a good cough and thanked me for that. Well, I knew what she needed. I had been there before! A few times!!

I waited around for Steve to bring the kids up, but finally had to go. Jodi had said Bethie had an earache and Steve would likely be taking her to the walk-in clinic. I told her I was going to get some steroids for the stupid rash and I'd take her. So, she said she would have him call me when he got home. She actually called me later to say he was taking all three, because Lucas had strep throat again. I did run into them there. That's when the day went downhill. I didn't really have to wait a long time to see the dr - maybe 1/2 - 3/4 of an hour. He was very nice and said he'd fix me up. We talked about prednisone. I took the prescription next door to Shoppers and waited and waited and waited for it to be filled!! There were a couple of people there who had been at the clinic and were in ahead of me. They got their prescriptions and were gone. Finally, I went up and asked and she said, oh it was done a long time ago! I never heard my name called! I was a bit peeved. Then, it wasn't prednisone, but a steroid cream! When I got home, there wasn't a sheet in it for first time users, so I had to look it up on the internet. He had called part of my rash "perioral dermatitis" and the information said not to be used for perioral dermatitis. I was so mad, I just didn't care. Oh, I have to back up a bit.

I got out of Shoppers and it was bitterly cold. The wind was horrific!! I got in the car and drove home and the stupid parkade gate wouldn't open with my remote. It gets like that sometimes in the really cold, but I've never had a problem with it. So, I had to get out of the car into that freezing wind. Find the dumb key, get into the parkade, open the gate and rush to get back into the car and get it through the gate before it closed again. By the time I parked it, plugged it in and got into the apartment, I was frozen and so mad. Then the medicine thing and I was getting pretty livid. Dale told me this morning he was afraid to talk to me for fear I'd kill him! Well, I wasn't that mad, but I was pretty mad!

So, what to be thankful for when things seem to spiral downhill like that? Well, once I calmed down and watched "19 Kids and Counting" and saw their little Josie so very tiny and all hooked up to everything imaginable, I was thankful for health and then, later, for a pretty good night's sleep. What a day!!!

Pictures - 32-39

Monday -32nd day - I made Dale's favorite dish, spaghetti (or basgetti as Bethany calls it). I'm not sure what it is about it that he loves so much, but he could eat it more often than I make it. I tell him he puts way too much sauce on. There really are spaghetti noodles under there! Tuesday - 33rd day - I have discovered online Scrabble. I am currently playing game after game with a friend of mine from high school, Pam and have had a game with Sandra. I really enjoy it, but sometimes it seems to take forever as we aren't always online at the same time. But it is still fun. Wednesday - 34th day - These are my three snowmen. When Bethany and Erin are over they fight over who is going to play with them. 'Course the one only wants to play when the other has already started. I let them, as they aren't porcelain like my other precious moments figurines. They also have lights, which is a big draw as well. Thursday, 35th day - this was the infamous "bad" day when Jodi went into the hospital by ambulance, I fell and hurt my knee, locked the keys in the house, had to wake a neighbor and use her phone to call Craig and get him out of a meeting to come get the girls and I, take us home, pick up Jen and Lucas at school and drop them off at my place and home. The kids stayed over night and camped out on the floor. The loved it!!

Friday - 36th day -These are the two Precious Moments figurines I bought because they reminded me of my mom and dad. Bethany was asking me about them, so I had a chance to tell her how my mom used to pray no matter what she was doing and prayed for us as she watched us walk to school. And how my dad was in the army and fought in WWII for the US. I don't know how much it meant to her, but she listened and said she liked them.

Saturday - 37th day - Jodi's contraption in the hospital. I went up to see her that evening, but she wouldn't let me take a picture of her. So, I took one of all the "bells and whistles" they had her hooked up to. Except the catheter bag and bag for the tube down her nose. They were too gross. It was good to see her alert and talking, even though she would close her eyes once in awhile.

Sunday - 38th day - This is a close-up of my farm in the game farmville I play on facebook. I bought a flag, quackerquarterback and kickercow in honor of the Superbowl and for Jason I chose Indianapolis. I'm sorry they didn't win for you Jay! The cow actually kicks the ball. It is cute!

Day 38

"My hope is in the Lord, Who gave Himself for me.

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And paid the sacrifice of love on Calvary.

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For me, He died.

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For me, He lives.

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And everlasting life and light He freely gives."

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Day 38 - "Hope" - How many times in a day do we say that word? "I hope you can come over", "I hope he gets home on time", "I hope...". I am thankful for hope. I am thankful, that like the song above, my hope is in the Lord. I don't have to worry about what is happening today, tomorrow or next week. My hope is in the Lord because He gave Himself for me! What a wonderful thing! I watched some "Superman" movies tonight. I always thought the Superman story mirrored God and Jesus a little bit and always wondered if the two men who "created" him were thinking along those lines. Anyway, Superman took Lois way up above the earth and asked her what she heard. She said "nothing". He said, "I hear everything. You said the world doesn't need a savior, but everyday I hear them crying for one." Isn't that like our Lord? He hears us - all of us - everyday and comes and comforts us or blesses us or whatever it is we need. I'm so glad we don't have to put our hope in a super man, but in our super Lord! Thank you, Lord for the hope we have in You!

Day 37

"God is so good. God is so good. God is so good. He's so good to me!" Day 37 - Actually this should be more about yesterday. Today is Saturday, February 6th. Yesterday was Craig's birthday. Since I started with Sandra and Jennifer, it is only fitting I include Craig in my birthday tributes. I don't have a picture of him. We didn't celebrate his birthday with him. I think he was in an all-night soccer tournament or somesuch. He is also preaching tomorrow, so has been busy with his sermon all week. He isn't big on birthday celebrations for himself, so I don't think he cares if we "forget". Well, we didn't forget - I did say "Happy Birthday, Craig" on the message I left on their answering machine! I will try to get a picture another time. So, here's my tribute to Craig. I am very thankful for Craig. He has been a real spiritual encourager to Dale and I the short time we've known him. His sermons are wonderful! He is so polite and very kind and helpful, respectful and such a gentleman to the ladies. I am proud to call him my not just my son-in-law, but my son, also. He is truly a part of the family. He treats Jen so well and we know he loves her. Thank you, Lord, for Craig and thank you, Craig, for being part of our family!

Day 35 and 36

"1-2-3 Jesus loves me. 1-2 Jesus loves you. 2, 3, 4 He loves you more, Than you have ever been loved before. 5, 6, 7, I'm on my way to heaven. 8, 9, 10, He's coming again."

Well, it's been quite a week and I didn't realize I had missed 3 days (including today). So, I must backtrack.

Day 35 - Not a day to have much to be thankful for, but I did think of something. I went over to Jodi and Steve's to take care of Bethany and Erin. Steve was taking Jodi back to the hospital by ambulance because she was in so much pain and couldn't move. The girls were playing with toys when I got there. The ambulace attendants came and I moved in to where they were to get out of the way. I don't know how I did it, but Lucas' Diego jeep was on the floor and I stepped on it. It acted like a skate and I went flying. I landed hard on the left side of my leg and knee. I knew I couldn't get up. One of the ambulance guys came to see if I was ok and tried to help me up, but my knees aren't strong enough. So the other guy came and they lifted me up and put me on a kitchen chair. From there I could stand and put my weight on the leg and it was sore, but I could walk. Jodi, however, couldn't and was taken to the hospital. Later, I was to go pick up Jen and Lucas at school with Steve's van. The girls and I left with bags for their sleeping over and just as I shut the door, I realized the keys were still on the counter. We went next door and unfortunately woke the young woman up to use her phone. (only reason a cell phone would have been useful!) I called Craig and asked if he'd come pick us up, drop us off at my place, pick up Jen and Lucas and drop Lucas back at the apt. What a nutty day!! What am I thankful for? That I fell while the ambulance guys were still there! I don't know what I would have done if it had just been me and the girls!!! While we were out in the cold waiting for Craig to come, we sang and one of the songs was the one at the beginning of the post! Kept us from feeling the cold!!

Day 36 - My thankfulness this day was that "something" showed up on the CT they did of Jodi's abdomen and it got her into the operating room rather quickly with a very good doctor who was very thorough! Once they got in they couldn't figure out what was causing the pus and infection she had inside her. Jodi figures it was because Kory and Natalie Hunter saw her right before she went in and prayed for her and God healed it! Anything is possible with God. I am thankful she is getting the medicine she needs and is getting better.

"Praise God from Whom all blessings flow. Praise Him all creatures here below. Praise Him above ye heavenly hosts. Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost. Amen." (The girls know this and we sang it, too)

Day 34

"I've got a mansion, just over the hilltop. In that bright land where, we'll never grow old. And someday yonder, we will nevermore wander. But walk on streets that, are purest gold."

I got an email forward from my brother today. I am not a big fan of these, as I find most of them sort of useless, but I had to chuckle when I saw this one. It is pictures of celebrity homes. ie: John Travolta, Sylvester Stallone, Oprah, Eddie Murphy, to name a few. These homes were enormous!! Way too big for one family and you know these people have way too much money! I would guess that would be the only reason you would want such a huge house - because you can afford it!! Anyway, as I looked at these places, my mom's voice came to me - she's say "I wouldn't want to live in a big old house like that! Just think of all the cleaning!!" Yep, that's exactly how I feel. Now, I'm sure my mom has a beautiful mansion in heaven and it is clean all the time - and not because she cleans it. It wouldn't be heaven if that were the case!! So, today I am thankful that I don't have to be envious of these people because I will be richer by far than they could ever imagine when I get my mansion in heaven!! And no bathrooms to clean, right Jay! Hallelujah, Amen!!

Day 33

"He giveth more grace, when the burdens grow greater. He sendeth more strength when the labors increased. Through added affliction, He addeth His mercy. Through multiplied trials, His multiplied peace. His love has no limit. His grace has no measure. His power has no boundary known unto men. For out of His infinate riches in Jesus, He giveth and giveth and giveth again."

Tonight, I watched a television show I have enjoyed watching for quite a few years now. I don't like reality TV and get frustrated with the "problems" that the people have on them and the griping and complaining. This show, however, is definitely different than any other. First of all, the couple have 19 children. Secondly, they are born-again Christians and are not afraid to let people know their faith is in God and they raise their children the way they feel God would have them be raised. Their children are polite, well-mannered and for the most part obedient. They are typical children and since most are only a year apart in age, they get along really well. I have read their book and I admire this couple and the way they are living for the Lord. In December, their 19th child was born at 25 weeks. She weighed 1lb 6oz and is the tiniest thing I have ever seen. As I watched the show and heard the mom tell of how this was the first time they had ever had to journey through something like this, I thought of my own children and grandchildren. So many times we forget the plight of others because we didn't have to travel down that road. Praise the Lord, Dale and I had 3 very healthy babies. They didn't all come easily, but once they were here, they were healthy and strong and grew and didn't have any major health issues. Because of God's goodness, they are young adults now, married and living for their Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. I am so very thankful for that. I'm sure we probably would have done what we had to do if one of them had had a health problem, but they didn't. So, maybe we've had it too good. And maybe this TV family has, too. I don't think so. I believe God has a reason for everything that happens to us and I believe He sent this precious little girl into their lives early and that it will be for His glory that whatever happens, happens. My thankfulness for today should be every day of my life. I guess most of the the things I am thankful for could be used over and over again, as God supplies us with good times and bad and we never know what is around the next corner. I just want to be have a thankful heart and not whine and complain about things I don't have. That is my prayer - "Lord, give me a thankful heart." And thank you for our three healthy children and five healthy grandchildren.

Day 32

"I've got the joy, joy, joy, joy, Down in my heart. Down in my heart. Down in my heart. I've got the joy, joy, joy, joy, Down in my heart. Down in my heart to stay."

Day 32 - I turned over two calendars today. Both, of course, for February. One has a cartoon on it about valentine's day, the other is a picture of two Precious Moments "kids" kissing. That is not what I am thankful for. I am thankful that today is February 1st. It just feels "spring-ier" already! The daylight is hanging on longer in the evening and even if it really isn't close to spring, at least, to me, it feels that way! Hurry spring!!!

Days 29, 30, 31 - Thankfulness

I knew this would happen sooner or later. I ended up with a hurt back and on pain pills, so was too out of it to post.

Day 29 - Tonight, again, was our date night. I had to take Jodi's three over to their grandma's by myself as Dale was stuck with a majorly clogged drain. We went out for supper after I got home. I have to say that my thankfulness this day almost had something to do with having kids at my age (but I think I've said that before). However, it ended up being sitting in a booth with a hot cup of coffee. I was thankful for that warmth of the coffee. Putting the kids in and out of the car and getting their suitcase was very cold and my fingers and toes were starting to pinch a little. So, when we finally got our decaf coffee, I held the cup and was so very thankful for the warmth on my fingers. These things may seem small, but at the time they are huge!! I even ended up taking my sweater off when the warmth really got to me!

Day 30 - As I said, I hurt my back. It started in the Friday evening. I turned over in bed and got a horrible cramping sensation all the way down the outside of my left leg. It hurt so badly and I tried standing to stretch it out. That's when I realized it wasn't a cramp, it was the nerve in my back screaming it was in pain all down my leg. I walked around a bit and that seemed to help, so quickly took two pain pills. It took almost 1/2 hour for the pain to subside and then I gingerly lay on my back in bed to see if it would be ok. Thankfully, it was. Eventually, I was able to turn on my side and sleep (I can't sleep on my back), but I did have to get up in the night and take some more pain pills. So, Saturday was spent taking pain pills and trying to find comfortable positions to sit and lay in. Dale and I did manage to go for groceries, but that was it for me. I was sleeping most of the day and evening. I guess I am thankful that I didn't have to do anything most of the day. It is nice to have a dear, sweet husband who lets me be sick or hurt or whatever and doesn't expect me to cook for him. Thanks, Sweetie.

Day 31 - Well, still having back pain, I wasn't able to go to church. I was awake before Dale got home, so had a bit of time to myself. I am thankful for quiet time, when we can reflect on what the Lord has done for us and pray for those of our friends and family who we feel the "nudging" to pray for. I relaxed again most of the day, so that helped my back considerably.

Pictures days 26-31

Day 26 - I figured I should show you what I sat and looked at for almost 2 hours this day. It is the light the dentist uses to light up the inside of your mouth! Yep, I had to fillings to replace and a small cavity. I don't freeze well, so she REALLY froze me - from my chin to my eye on the left side (flashbacks of Bell's palsy!). But, I'm done now, so should be good for awhile. Day 27 - These pictures used to hang in my bedroom when I lived at home. They were pictures my mom said she bought off some sort of traveling salesman. The birds are all made with bird feathers and thepictures are really quite pretty and colorful. I always liked them and when Mom had her stroke and we started cleaning out her house, I claimed them.Day 28 - This is the only thing I have found I could grow in our apartment. It is a nice big bamboo plant. I actually bought the 3 stalks this big, minus the leaves on top. They are growing nicely. I bought a little bamboo plant and it started to die on top. I cut it down and now it is growing again. I guess plants that just like to be left alone are the ones I do best with.

Day 29 - I had these 3 munchkins on Friday. Jodi had her tummy tuck surgery in the morning. I told them how I had made a sign saying "Get well soon Daddy" when Papa was in the hospital a long time ago. I had Jason, Jodi and Jen hold it and took a picture of them with my Polaroid camera. Then I took the picture up to Dale. (He doesn't remember, but he was pretty sick then) So, we did the same for Jodi, except I printed the picture off with my scanner/printer. It turned out not to badly. Day 30 - I hurt my back (I think it was trying to buckle Bethany and Erin into my car) and was pretty doped up Sat. and Sun., so whenever the drug would kick in and I could sit and see for a bit, I got on the computer. I was looking at some book templates on Heritagemakers to see about doing a book with Dale's grandparents and parents in it.

Day 31 - Sunday, I was still really groggy, so didn't even go on the computer much. I sat and watched TV mostly. This is a scene from "National Treasure".