It was a quiet day for me. My tooth hurt so badly that I knew better than to go out into the woods. Especially with temperatures starting out at only 10 degrees. So I called Shane and let them know that I couldn't come. Am I ever glad that I didn't. The pain was really bad most of the morning. I called Dr. Tim at 8:30 and he ordered some antibiotics for me. After I took them and two Ibuprofen the pain finally subsided enough that I was able to lie down and actually sleep for a couple of hours.
He also ordered a prescription of Tylenol with codeine which I can take when I go to bed tonight. The pain was pretty mild most of the afternoon but is coming back again. I am hoping that a good night's sleep and some more penicillin will knock it out of me.
I made the Christmas fudge today. I can store it in a cool dry place. I still have to make buckeyes before sending the packages out of state. I like to get them out that first week in December so must get moving.
Jim and Michelle picked up my Share order for me this morning so I wouldn't have to go out any more than necessary. Bobbie came by this afternoon after stopping in to see her Dad. She brought him a nice lavender scented potpourri for his room. Sometimes things get a bit heavy in that place. I had told her I was about out of soap too and she brought a few bars for me. I love her soaps. They keep me from turning into a snake. And they smell SO good.
I went to church at 4PM then stopped off to see Dick and wheel him down to the dining room for his supper. I came right home then and am settling down for a long night's sleep. As soon as I can take my next antibiotic I will take a pain pill and hunker down.
Jeff called from Mother's. They had a pretty good day. Jeff did not see anything, but Shane saw eight. He got a shot off at one of them, the only one close enough, but missed. However, he chased it over past Cory and Cory got it. Randy also got a nice doe. I will be picking up some liver on Monday. Bobbie and I will have to plan an evening for a liver dinner. Shane is talking like he would like to try it so maybe we will invite him too. The guys are planning on going hunting again on Thanksgiving Day and if my ear is healed I will go out then, just for those few hours. Jim said that this might be dangerous, the last time I did that, I ended up in the emergency room.
Have a nice Sunday. I am going to rest again except for going over to the Center at about noon and having lunch with Dick.
Mary
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Friday, November 21, 2008
Well, today has been quite a day.
Started off with my tooth still hurting and worse that the days before. I called the dentist and left a message.
Went over to the Center at 8:30 because Tim from the Wisconsin Prosthetics was going to be there early. He was already there when I got to the Center, but was working with another patient. We got to see him very shortly, about 9AM. I watched him measure and make a plastic cast for the prosthesis. Just about then Dr. Tim, the dentist called and I could go right in.
He checked me over between a busy schedule and found that there was a crack in the hurting tooth. So. He put a filling in the tooth. I got back to the Center at about 10:30AM and Dick was just finishing his therapy. We went upstairs and I rested until it was time for lunch. Then I came home to take care of Chelsea and eat. Then slowly throughout the afternoon, the numbness started wearing off. The cookie ladies came around at about 2PM and I found out that heat makes the tooth hurt. Coffee told me.
I fixed teriaki steak and fried rice for supper and brought it over to have a meal with Dick. They were serving Sloppy Joes and potato salad, so he opted for that.
However, the tooth is getting worse. I hope it is because of all the eating and activity. Soon, I will brush with Sensidyne toothpaste, take some Tylenol and go to bed. If it is still hurting in the morning, I will not be able to go out hunting for sure. It is supposed to be about 10 degrees and that is no place to be with a sore tooth. I do have Dr. Tim's number and will call if it is still hurting in the morning.
Kind of a weird day overall. I'll update you tomorrow night. Hope I will be able to tell you that I went hunting.
Love
Mary
Started off with my tooth still hurting and worse that the days before. I called the dentist and left a message.
Went over to the Center at 8:30 because Tim from the Wisconsin Prosthetics was going to be there early. He was already there when I got to the Center, but was working with another patient. We got to see him very shortly, about 9AM. I watched him measure and make a plastic cast for the prosthesis. Just about then Dr. Tim, the dentist called and I could go right in.
He checked me over between a busy schedule and found that there was a crack in the hurting tooth. So. He put a filling in the tooth. I got back to the Center at about 10:30AM and Dick was just finishing his therapy. We went upstairs and I rested until it was time for lunch. Then I came home to take care of Chelsea and eat. Then slowly throughout the afternoon, the numbness started wearing off. The cookie ladies came around at about 2PM and I found out that heat makes the tooth hurt. Coffee told me.
I fixed teriaki steak and fried rice for supper and brought it over to have a meal with Dick. They were serving Sloppy Joes and potato salad, so he opted for that.
However, the tooth is getting worse. I hope it is because of all the eating and activity. Soon, I will brush with Sensidyne toothpaste, take some Tylenol and go to bed. If it is still hurting in the morning, I will not be able to go out hunting for sure. It is supposed to be about 10 degrees and that is no place to be with a sore tooth. I do have Dr. Tim's number and will call if it is still hurting in the morning.
Kind of a weird day overall. I'll update you tomorrow night. Hope I will be able to tell you that I went hunting.
Love
Mary
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Here we are on a COLD Thursday in November. One week from today is Thanksgiving. Where is the year going?
I drove back and forth from the Center several times. I had to do a load of shorts for Dick and fix my lunch and my supper and walk the dog.
A good thing happened today. We went to the Plymouth Clinic to see Dr. Fehrman, the orthopedic surgeon. He looked at the stump and proclaimed that Dick does not have to come back any more unless something happens to the other leg. He is aware of the problems and is hoping along with us that the hyperbaric procedures or the stem cell salve do some healing. When and if they do, we will need to be constantly on alert for any slight wounds and keep him healthy. It is a scary situation. His diabetes along with the edema and poor circulation is awful. But after all this time and work we cannot give up now.
Another special thing happened today. Tim, the owner and operator of Custom Care and Transport, told me that if it would work, he would come and pick Dick up from the Center on Thanksgiving and bring him home and back. He would do this pro gratis. There are beautiful people in this world. I discussed it with Dick and he says no. The main problem is not getting him into the house, but being able to use the facilities. We are not that far along with his therapy as yet. I will call Tim and thank him. He will then be able to spend the whole day with his family.
Tomorrow I will have news of the next step in prosthesis fitting. Tim from the Wisconsin Prosthesis will be there to, we believe, do a first cast for the first temporary prosthesis. This is exciting.
Saturday is opening day for Deer Hunting. It is going to be cold cold cold. But not wet. So I will have to really bundle up. Perhaps this will be my year.
When I was living in California, we would go out to Chiriaca Summit every year for Thanksgiving with a lot of other people in our Jeep club. I always fixed our turkey dinner on the Sunday before the holiday. Then I would pack portions of EVERYTHING for our little family to eat on Thanksgiving day out on the desert. The Jeep club celebrated on Saturday with the pig roast that I have mentioned before. I am going to have to test the scanner that is a part of our new printer and send you a picture of the pig on the spit and the camp. It was a fun time of life.
Bottle of wine, Fruit of the vine.
When you going to let me get sober
Leave me alone
Let me go home
Let me go back and start over.
We sang around the campfire at night. This was one of the songs. However, we were drinking Apricot Brandy and I liked it straight up with a cup of hot coffee on the side. Sweet and bitter. Great taste sensation.
Love
Mary
I drove back and forth from the Center several times. I had to do a load of shorts for Dick and fix my lunch and my supper and walk the dog.
A good thing happened today. We went to the Plymouth Clinic to see Dr. Fehrman, the orthopedic surgeon. He looked at the stump and proclaimed that Dick does not have to come back any more unless something happens to the other leg. He is aware of the problems and is hoping along with us that the hyperbaric procedures or the stem cell salve do some healing. When and if they do, we will need to be constantly on alert for any slight wounds and keep him healthy. It is a scary situation. His diabetes along with the edema and poor circulation is awful. But after all this time and work we cannot give up now.
Another special thing happened today. Tim, the owner and operator of Custom Care and Transport, told me that if it would work, he would come and pick Dick up from the Center on Thanksgiving and bring him home and back. He would do this pro gratis. There are beautiful people in this world. I discussed it with Dick and he says no. The main problem is not getting him into the house, but being able to use the facilities. We are not that far along with his therapy as yet. I will call Tim and thank him. He will then be able to spend the whole day with his family.
Tomorrow I will have news of the next step in prosthesis fitting. Tim from the Wisconsin Prosthesis will be there to, we believe, do a first cast for the first temporary prosthesis. This is exciting.
Saturday is opening day for Deer Hunting. It is going to be cold cold cold. But not wet. So I will have to really bundle up. Perhaps this will be my year.
When I was living in California, we would go out to Chiriaca Summit every year for Thanksgiving with a lot of other people in our Jeep club. I always fixed our turkey dinner on the Sunday before the holiday. Then I would pack portions of EVERYTHING for our little family to eat on Thanksgiving day out on the desert. The Jeep club celebrated on Saturday with the pig roast that I have mentioned before. I am going to have to test the scanner that is a part of our new printer and send you a picture of the pig on the spit and the camp. It was a fun time of life.
Bottle of wine, Fruit of the vine.
When you going to let me get sober
Leave me alone
Let me go home
Let me go back and start over.
We sang around the campfire at night. This was one of the songs. However, we were drinking Apricot Brandy and I liked it straight up with a cup of hot coffee on the side. Sweet and bitter. Great taste sensation.
Love
Mary
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Not a great day. I have a toothache.
Chelsea woke me up at about 5AM. I did my usual, let her out, gave her a treat and then went back to bed. However, I couldn't sleep because my tooth was achy and I was thinking too much.
After breakfast and shower, I got to the Center at 8:45AM so that we could be ready for Tim from the Custom Transport to pick us up for Dick's appointment with Dr. Sharon. He found no major problems with Dick's general health. A bit of tweaking on the meds and he wants him weighed twice a week as there has been a big weight loss and I am sure he wants to monitor. The loss will be useful when he stands on the prosthesis but too much is not a good thing either.
We got back at about 10AM and I called the dentist back. (I had left a message before I left home but nobody had called.) I think I had mentioned that I was supposed to go in next Monday to have a cap replaced on an old root canal. But this pain is getting worse. Dr. Tim was very kind. He says there is no infection (which I was worried about.) He said that the blackness of the enamel, which I had noticed is just from the old silver filling. The pain is from thin enamel and gum tenderness around the tooth that is NEXT to the one that feels like it is hurting. I now have a tube of MI Paste Plus which is supposed to recoat and replace that enamel. He said it may take a week but that I need to apply it every night and during the day, if I can. No water for about an hour after application. The night one is the most important.
I went back to the Center after the dentist appointment and took a nap. It was very beneficial, but I am still tired.
I brought the rest of that Mexican Chicken that we had on Monday night for our supper. I have JUST enough left for a lunch. I had made a half casserole.
So that was our day. Tomorrow we go to see Dr. Fehrman. I am sure he will be pleased with the say Dick's leg is healing. Wish we could say the same for the right one.
One of twelve rules to live by that a friend sent to me.
"Make the most of your circumstances. Noone has everything and everyone has something of sorrow intermingled with gladness of life. The trick is to make the laughter outweigh the tears."
Sometimes it is quite a trick but we can do it.
Love
Mary
Chelsea woke me up at about 5AM. I did my usual, let her out, gave her a treat and then went back to bed. However, I couldn't sleep because my tooth was achy and I was thinking too much.
After breakfast and shower, I got to the Center at 8:45AM so that we could be ready for Tim from the Custom Transport to pick us up for Dick's appointment with Dr. Sharon. He found no major problems with Dick's general health. A bit of tweaking on the meds and he wants him weighed twice a week as there has been a big weight loss and I am sure he wants to monitor. The loss will be useful when he stands on the prosthesis but too much is not a good thing either.
We got back at about 10AM and I called the dentist back. (I had left a message before I left home but nobody had called.) I think I had mentioned that I was supposed to go in next Monday to have a cap replaced on an old root canal. But this pain is getting worse. Dr. Tim was very kind. He says there is no infection (which I was worried about.) He said that the blackness of the enamel, which I had noticed is just from the old silver filling. The pain is from thin enamel and gum tenderness around the tooth that is NEXT to the one that feels like it is hurting. I now have a tube of MI Paste Plus which is supposed to recoat and replace that enamel. He said it may take a week but that I need to apply it every night and during the day, if I can. No water for about an hour after application. The night one is the most important.
I went back to the Center after the dentist appointment and took a nap. It was very beneficial, but I am still tired.
I brought the rest of that Mexican Chicken that we had on Monday night for our supper. I have JUST enough left for a lunch. I had made a half casserole.
So that was our day. Tomorrow we go to see Dr. Fehrman. I am sure he will be pleased with the say Dick's leg is healing. Wish we could say the same for the right one.
One of twelve rules to live by that a friend sent to me.
"Make the most of your circumstances. Noone has everything and everyone has something of sorrow intermingled with gladness of life. The trick is to make the laughter outweigh the tears."
Sometimes it is quite a trick but we can do it.
Love
Mary
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
It was very cold this morning. The snow was mainly gone, so Chelsea was not as happy rolling in the grass and when I took her for her walk, her poor little paws started to hurt from the cold. There were slippery spots too, so we did not go far.
I put a loaf of bread in the bread machine before I left for the Center. I also made SURE that I did not have to go to court about my accident/ticket. I am scheduled for December 3 at 10:AM. The nurse changed the dressing on the wound on Dick's right foot while I was there this morning so I got to see it. I can't tell if there is any improvement but it looks no worse. I went down for part of his physical therapy. Lori had him transfer from the chair to the mat not using the board. It worked but we need to have him use less foot and more upper body.
I left at 11:30 because I had to pick up some things at Walgreens and eat lunch. Mom's prescription was ready and they had a few bargains too. Now I have to figure out the best time to swing over to Sheboygan Falls and give Mom the pills.
I ate some of my leftover chicken and veggies for lunch. I also had a slice of bread fresh from the bread machine.
When I got back to the Center, I was exhausted so I took a nap. At 3:30PM I drove over to Lee and Janice Lemkuil's home. Lee is a recent double amputee and they are members of an Amputee Support Group. Janice had invited me over to see the things that they have done to make their home "Lee" safe and friendly. I got some very good ideas. Some of the things that they have done won't work but others will be very helpful. I am also going to go to the Support Group meetings. Lee offered to come and talk to Dick. Dick said Maybe after the appointment on December 2.
I think it would be helpful to him but only if he is receptive.
I zipped home and fed and took care of Chelsea then went back again to the Center to have supper with Dick. They were serving Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast ( Shit on a Shingle). Dick and I both like it and wanted to see if it tasted as good as we remembered as we have not had it in years. It Did!!
Now I am home, it is almost 9PM and Chelsea is pestering me to take her out again and then go to bed.
I think I will.
Take care
Mary
P. S. The big St. John Raffle is over. I did not get a big call and haven't heard from any of you so I guess we are out of luck on that one.
Love
Mary
I put a loaf of bread in the bread machine before I left for the Center. I also made SURE that I did not have to go to court about my accident/ticket. I am scheduled for December 3 at 10:AM. The nurse changed the dressing on the wound on Dick's right foot while I was there this morning so I got to see it. I can't tell if there is any improvement but it looks no worse. I went down for part of his physical therapy. Lori had him transfer from the chair to the mat not using the board. It worked but we need to have him use less foot and more upper body.
I left at 11:30 because I had to pick up some things at Walgreens and eat lunch. Mom's prescription was ready and they had a few bargains too. Now I have to figure out the best time to swing over to Sheboygan Falls and give Mom the pills.
I ate some of my leftover chicken and veggies for lunch. I also had a slice of bread fresh from the bread machine.
When I got back to the Center, I was exhausted so I took a nap. At 3:30PM I drove over to Lee and Janice Lemkuil's home. Lee is a recent double amputee and they are members of an Amputee Support Group. Janice had invited me over to see the things that they have done to make their home "Lee" safe and friendly. I got some very good ideas. Some of the things that they have done won't work but others will be very helpful. I am also going to go to the Support Group meetings. Lee offered to come and talk to Dick. Dick said Maybe after the appointment on December 2.
I think it would be helpful to him but only if he is receptive.
I zipped home and fed and took care of Chelsea then went back again to the Center to have supper with Dick. They were serving Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast ( Shit on a Shingle). Dick and I both like it and wanted to see if it tasted as good as we remembered as we have not had it in years. It Did!!
Now I am home, it is almost 9PM and Chelsea is pestering me to take her out again and then go to bed.
I think I will.
Take care
Mary
P. S. The big St. John Raffle is over. I did not get a big call and haven't heard from any of you so I guess we are out of luck on that one.
Love
Mary
Monday, November 17, 2008
It snowed this afternoon. For the first time, some of the snow stayed on the ground. At least for a little while. The roads are slippery. I think Chelsea is forcing herself to be "good" so that she can roll around in it.
I made the Mexican Chicken Casserole that we all like so well and took it over to the Center so Dick and I could eat supper together. That was nice.
This morning started with Bible Study. There were 8 of us there. We had a lively discussion on who are the "least of my brethren". We are supposed to pay attention to that. I would imagine that those of us who have so much will be more accountable. We also had quite a discussion on what is "enough". It makes no sense to be paying CEOs, Star Athletes and/or some other celebrities the amounts they are paid. I feel this especially about the CEO's who are frankly robbing from the bottom line of the profits. Their answer when a company is having trouble is to lay off workers. Heck, they could "lay off" one of themselves. I wonder how they will be able to face God.
Everyone is praying for Dick anyway. We need all of that.
I had a nice visit with Mother, then stopped at Walmart on the way home to renew my cell phone, pick up wrapping paper and bows AND buy a new purse. My strap broke. I am one of those people who just find a purse and stick with it. I do not change for an outfit or for the season. Fortunately I found one almost the exact same style as the one I had and it was only $10. Isn't that great.
The Plymouth Writer's Club met at 1:00PM. There were 8 of us there, including my new friend Peggy. She writes from the heart and very well. We had a nice meeting. Fortunately, I had a couple of things done. I don't have to read anything but feel like I failed a class or something when I don't.
The rest of the evening was for me and Dick. I brought Chelsea over to see him when I had to go home to pick up his shorts. He looked good today but I thought his voice sounded weak. I should be able to spend a good chunk of tomorrow with him and can watch him do his therapy. That gives me an idea too.
He sees Dr. Sharon, his primary physician on Wednesday.
A friend sent me a video of a portion of Ellen Degenerus's show. She was talking to an 88 year old lady from Austin Texas, who is a real hoot. Her name is Gladys Hardy and she said, "Listen Honey, I love Jesus but I drink a little."
Sounds like a good philosophy to me.
Have a good Tuesday.
Think of me.
Mary
I made the Mexican Chicken Casserole that we all like so well and took it over to the Center so Dick and I could eat supper together. That was nice.
This morning started with Bible Study. There were 8 of us there. We had a lively discussion on who are the "least of my brethren". We are supposed to pay attention to that. I would imagine that those of us who have so much will be more accountable. We also had quite a discussion on what is "enough". It makes no sense to be paying CEOs, Star Athletes and/or some other celebrities the amounts they are paid. I feel this especially about the CEO's who are frankly robbing from the bottom line of the profits. Their answer when a company is having trouble is to lay off workers. Heck, they could "lay off" one of themselves. I wonder how they will be able to face God.
Everyone is praying for Dick anyway. We need all of that.
I had a nice visit with Mother, then stopped at Walmart on the way home to renew my cell phone, pick up wrapping paper and bows AND buy a new purse. My strap broke. I am one of those people who just find a purse and stick with it. I do not change for an outfit or for the season. Fortunately I found one almost the exact same style as the one I had and it was only $10. Isn't that great.
The Plymouth Writer's Club met at 1:00PM. There were 8 of us there, including my new friend Peggy. She writes from the heart and very well. We had a nice meeting. Fortunately, I had a couple of things done. I don't have to read anything but feel like I failed a class or something when I don't.
The rest of the evening was for me and Dick. I brought Chelsea over to see him when I had to go home to pick up his shorts. He looked good today but I thought his voice sounded weak. I should be able to spend a good chunk of tomorrow with him and can watch him do his therapy. That gives me an idea too.
He sees Dr. Sharon, his primary physician on Wednesday.
A friend sent me a video of a portion of Ellen Degenerus's show. She was talking to an 88 year old lady from Austin Texas, who is a real hoot. Her name is Gladys Hardy and she said, "Listen Honey, I love Jesus but I drink a little."
Sounds like a good philosophy to me.
Have a good Tuesday.
Think of me.
Mary
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Today was a day for me to be huddled in my cave. It worked too. The only time I left was to go and shoot pistol with Nancy this afternoon. When we got to the club there was one truck parked in the lot. It was Doc (Don) Blake. He had come to the club to watch the Packer game. It seems that Judy, his wife, was giving a jewelry party and he just wanted to get out of the house. Nancy and I were glad to see him. After we shot, we visited with him for a bit before heading on home.
When I got home, I loaded Chelsea up in the car and we went over to see Dick for a hug. I stopped at the grocery store to pick up a Milwaukee Sentinal. It will give him something to read AND a TV guide for the week.
By the way, my scores were not TOO bad today. Nancy and I want to keep practicing so that we will be ready for the winter league that starts in January.
I took two naps today and am still tired. I plan on being IN bed at 9PM and hope to get a really good night's sleep. This is a really busy week and I need to be prepared.
Tomorrow, I will be going to Bible Study and then over to Mom's. I talked to her tonight. She is fine but felt a bit weak today and did not go to Mass, so I will pick up a bulletin for her from church.
I called Bret AND Bart and Barb today. Bart and Barb are a bit under the weather but doing OK and Bret is fine. He spent the weekend at the River, thank heavens. Now that he is back, he is in no danger from the fire but having sneezing fits from all the ash and the Santa Ana Winds that are blowing.
The only thing I did today was to go through and clean my coat closet/cookbook shelves. That gave me a good feeling.
Nora called today. It was so good to talk to her. She keeps track through this blog. The blog is a good thing. Today I got a message from someone, who just happened to read the blog. He or she said that they knew someone who had gone through hyperbaric procedures and that it worked wonders. That is certainly encouraging in this time of such uncertainty and concern.
Hope your week goes well. Keep us in mind. Tomorrow, my friend Kate's husband has a minor surgery. Pray for them too.
Love
Mary
I got the following in an email. It is just too cute so I thought I would brighten your day.
THE THREE LITTLE PIGS
This is a true story, proving how fascinating the mind of a six year old is. They think so logically.
A teacher was reading the story of the Three Little Pigs to her class. She came to the part of the story where the first little pig was trying to gather the building materials for his home.
She read: 'and so the little pig went up to the man with the wheelb arrow full of straw and said: 'Pardon me sir, but may I have some of that straw to build my house?'
The teacher paused then asked the class: 'And what do you think the man said?'
One little boy raised his hand and said very matter-of-factly. 'I think the man would have said: 'Well, I'll be damned! A talking pig!'
The teacher had to leave the room.
When I got home, I loaded Chelsea up in the car and we went over to see Dick for a hug. I stopped at the grocery store to pick up a Milwaukee Sentinal. It will give him something to read AND a TV guide for the week.
By the way, my scores were not TOO bad today. Nancy and I want to keep practicing so that we will be ready for the winter league that starts in January.
I took two naps today and am still tired. I plan on being IN bed at 9PM and hope to get a really good night's sleep. This is a really busy week and I need to be prepared.
Tomorrow, I will be going to Bible Study and then over to Mom's. I talked to her tonight. She is fine but felt a bit weak today and did not go to Mass, so I will pick up a bulletin for her from church.
I called Bret AND Bart and Barb today. Bart and Barb are a bit under the weather but doing OK and Bret is fine. He spent the weekend at the River, thank heavens. Now that he is back, he is in no danger from the fire but having sneezing fits from all the ash and the Santa Ana Winds that are blowing.
The only thing I did today was to go through and clean my coat closet/cookbook shelves. That gave me a good feeling.
Nora called today. It was so good to talk to her. She keeps track through this blog. The blog is a good thing. Today I got a message from someone, who just happened to read the blog. He or she said that they knew someone who had gone through hyperbaric procedures and that it worked wonders. That is certainly encouraging in this time of such uncertainty and concern.
Hope your week goes well. Keep us in mind. Tomorrow, my friend Kate's husband has a minor surgery. Pray for them too.
Love
Mary
I got the following in an email. It is just too cute so I thought I would brighten your day.
THE THREE LITTLE PIGS
This is a true story, proving how fascinating the mind of a six year old is. They think so logically.
A teacher was reading the story of the Three Little Pigs to her class. She came to the part of the story where the first little pig was trying to gather the building materials for his home.
She read: 'and so the little pig went up to the man with the wheelb arrow full of straw and said: 'Pardon me sir, but may I have some of that straw to build my house?'
The teacher paused then asked the class: 'And what do you think the man said?'
One little boy raised his hand and said very matter-of-factly. 'I think the man would have said: 'Well, I'll be damned! A talking pig!'
The teacher had to leave the room.
Saturday, November 15, 2008
I met Jeff, Randy and Jessica out this side of Dundee at the spot we go deer hunting. We checked out all the spots and cleaned them up and "repaired" benches and seats. It was a bit chilly, but the wind they had mentioned was not noticeable in the woods which were beautiful. The trails were covered with leaves. Makes it a bit tricky because one has to be more careful not to slip, but it is nice and soft.
We went in past Cory's spot so that we could see the big deer rub that we had heard about. If it is indeed a rub it must be either a huge deer of a mighty aggressive one.
Then we walked on to Shane's spot. He won't be here until the end of the week. We have to go over ruins of the rock fence that we figure great grandpa Joseph built when this was the Bowser homestead.
These treks are fun. Shane was the second one to shoot at that big deer that Randy got the year before last. I saw it too when Shane shot, and I waited for it to reappear closer to me but it went around back of the ridge across from me. It did make it to Randy anyway and he was a happy happy camper.
When we left there, we went to the spot that I was at last year. Jeff is going to sit there. He is being exceptionally good to his old sister and letting me use his spot which is easy to get to and close to the road. He has also done very well there. It seems to be a place that the deer travel a lot and he wants me to fill out at least once.
Next on to Jessie's place where she and I shot to see how accurate we are. Jessie was right on. I was low and to the left. I did get it lined up but have to remember to shoot a bit higher.
Randy and Jessie then went up to Randy's spot and Jeff and I over to "his" spot. When he started hunting this place there was a nice tree there. He had made a bench below and had a nice seat up in the crook of the tree which gave him a bird's eye view of the lanes. Over the years, his tree has died. All that is left is a crumbling stump and some rotting branches. We got the lanes cleared out and reinforced the bench and then were done. We did well. I got home shortly after 11AM, took a shower, a load of wash and ate lunch. Then I went over to see Dick. I tried to take a nap but my tooth started to throb, so I came home and took some Tylenol an lay down here. I went to Mass at 4PM.
Dick and I visited from about 5:30 to 7:30 and now I am home for the evening. Tomorrow, I am staying home until 2:30PM. Then Nancy Roehre and I are going to shoot some pistol. I will stop to give Dick a hug on my way home and stay home for the rest of the evening.
We have decided that I need rest so I will to stay in my cave except for that short jaunt. I intend to nap at least twice. Chelsea will be beside herself.
Be happy and pray for us as I pray for all of you.
Tomorrow is the big Raffle at St. John the Baptist. Some of you have tickets. The drawing is after the 10:45AM Mass. They will call all the winners so be near your phone.
Love
Mary
Randy and Jes
We went in past Cory's spot so that we could see the big deer rub that we had heard about. If it is indeed a rub it must be either a huge deer of a mighty aggressive one.
Then we walked on to Shane's spot. He won't be here until the end of the week. We have to go over ruins of the rock fence that we figure great grandpa Joseph built when this was the Bowser homestead.
These treks are fun. Shane was the second one to shoot at that big deer that Randy got the year before last. I saw it too when Shane shot, and I waited for it to reappear closer to me but it went around back of the ridge across from me. It did make it to Randy anyway and he was a happy happy camper.
When we left there, we went to the spot that I was at last year. Jeff is going to sit there. He is being exceptionally good to his old sister and letting me use his spot which is easy to get to and close to the road. He has also done very well there. It seems to be a place that the deer travel a lot and he wants me to fill out at least once.
Next on to Jessie's place where she and I shot to see how accurate we are. Jessie was right on. I was low and to the left. I did get it lined up but have to remember to shoot a bit higher.
Randy and Jessie then went up to Randy's spot and Jeff and I over to "his" spot. When he started hunting this place there was a nice tree there. He had made a bench below and had a nice seat up in the crook of the tree which gave him a bird's eye view of the lanes. Over the years, his tree has died. All that is left is a crumbling stump and some rotting branches. We got the lanes cleared out and reinforced the bench and then were done. We did well. I got home shortly after 11AM, took a shower, a load of wash and ate lunch. Then I went over to see Dick. I tried to take a nap but my tooth started to throb, so I came home and took some Tylenol an lay down here. I went to Mass at 4PM.
Dick and I visited from about 5:30 to 7:30 and now I am home for the evening. Tomorrow, I am staying home until 2:30PM. Then Nancy Roehre and I are going to shoot some pistol. I will stop to give Dick a hug on my way home and stay home for the rest of the evening.
We have decided that I need rest so I will to stay in my cave except for that short jaunt. I intend to nap at least twice. Chelsea will be beside herself.
Be happy and pray for us as I pray for all of you.
Tomorrow is the big Raffle at St. John the Baptist. Some of you have tickets. The drawing is after the 10:45AM Mass. They will call all the winners so be near your phone.
Love
Mary
Randy and Jes
Friday, November 14, 2008
I am exhausted. It was a long day. I got up a bit early because I woke up and couldn't sleep anymore. I went to the Pig early to pick up some water for making coffee and some pretzels for Dick. I went early because I wanted a donut. I got a Chocolate Long John which tasted wonderful.
I went over to see Dick at about 9, after making a few phone calls. I talked to Janice Lemkuil, the wife of an amputee, Lee. They are members of an amputee support group which meets once a month on the fourth Wednesday of every month. I am going to try my best to go to the next meeting which is November 26. They meet at 2PM at Rocky Knoll.
I also heard from Dick Ruh from A & J Custom Van. He checked and found out that the 2008 Ford Explorer cannot have that swivel, lowering seat installed. Something about the electrical hookups. We are considering changing vehicles, but are in the early stages. Dick said that he would bring over a lower van that allows for wheelchair access by ramp for my Dick to try if that would help. They also deal in custom vans. One of the workers at the Center has a brother and sister in law who also are adept at finding vehicles. We need to consider all the pros and cons and then make up our minds.
I met Bobbie at the Horse and Plow at about noon. We had lunch there. She had a Cobb salad that looked luscious and I had a veggie pannini. Then we walked through the American Club Craft Fair.
There was a LOT of neat stuff. It is fun to look at all the beautiful things that people make to sell. I picked up two Christmas gifts which I will not put on this site because the recipients just might guess what is for them.
Got home a bit after three and caught up on the phone and email messages before going over to be with Dick again. Jim and Michelle came to clean again just before 4PM so I packed my dinner and asked them to feed the Chelsea for me.
I came home at a bit before 7 so I could watch Ghost Whisperer. I saw the first part of a two parter last week and did not want to miss the ending.
Tomorrow, I am going to the woods with Jeff, Randy and Jessica to scope out our hunting sited. It is supposed to be cold. I just hope it is not too cold next Saturday when we hunt. We are going out at about 8:30 so I should be over to see Dick by noon. I will go to the 4PM Mass and then be with Dick again until close to bed time. We decided that I will take Sunday for a stay at home and rest day - except that Nancy and I are going shooting at 2:30 and I will stop on the way home to give him a hug.
I found a neat quote that is fun with all the political stuff that is going on. A P. J. Rourke said:
He said, "The Democrats are the party that says government will make you smarter, taller, richer, and remove the crabgrass on your lawn. The Republicans are the party that says government doesn't work and then they get elected and prove it."
Love
Mary
I went over to see Dick at about 9, after making a few phone calls. I talked to Janice Lemkuil, the wife of an amputee, Lee. They are members of an amputee support group which meets once a month on the fourth Wednesday of every month. I am going to try my best to go to the next meeting which is November 26. They meet at 2PM at Rocky Knoll.
I also heard from Dick Ruh from A & J Custom Van. He checked and found out that the 2008 Ford Explorer cannot have that swivel, lowering seat installed. Something about the electrical hookups. We are considering changing vehicles, but are in the early stages. Dick said that he would bring over a lower van that allows for wheelchair access by ramp for my Dick to try if that would help. They also deal in custom vans. One of the workers at the Center has a brother and sister in law who also are adept at finding vehicles. We need to consider all the pros and cons and then make up our minds.
I met Bobbie at the Horse and Plow at about noon. We had lunch there. She had a Cobb salad that looked luscious and I had a veggie pannini. Then we walked through the American Club Craft Fair.
There was a LOT of neat stuff. It is fun to look at all the beautiful things that people make to sell. I picked up two Christmas gifts which I will not put on this site because the recipients just might guess what is for them.
Got home a bit after three and caught up on the phone and email messages before going over to be with Dick again. Jim and Michelle came to clean again just before 4PM so I packed my dinner and asked them to feed the Chelsea for me.
I came home at a bit before 7 so I could watch Ghost Whisperer. I saw the first part of a two parter last week and did not want to miss the ending.
Tomorrow, I am going to the woods with Jeff, Randy and Jessica to scope out our hunting sited. It is supposed to be cold. I just hope it is not too cold next Saturday when we hunt. We are going out at about 8:30 so I should be over to see Dick by noon. I will go to the 4PM Mass and then be with Dick again until close to bed time. We decided that I will take Sunday for a stay at home and rest day - except that Nancy and I are going shooting at 2:30 and I will stop on the way home to give him a hug.
I found a neat quote that is fun with all the political stuff that is going on. A P. J. Rourke said:
He said, "The Democrats are the party that says government will make you smarter, taller, richer, and remove the crabgrass on your lawn. The Republicans are the party that says government doesn't work and then they get elected and prove it."
Love
Mary
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Today was a bit better. At least we got a few answers.
We have an appointment at St. Luke's with the Hyperbaric doctor on December 2 at 10:00AM. Now I have to confirm that Tim from Custom Care and Transport can drive us.
I also have A & J Vans pricing out what it would cost to have a "lift" passenger seat put in the Explorer. Dick is learning to do a board transfer and this would be a seat that would swivel, come out, lower and then reverse to get Dick in the car without standing. Gene from A & J, as I said, is pricing it out. It is only one thing that we are checking but may be a "permanent" solution to transporting him. Tim is great but there is no funding for transportation and it is beginning to mount up, even locally.
I have several other possible sources of help that I will be calling in the next few days.
The rest of the day was spent just us together. I ate dinner with him in the dining room. We were served really good ham, scalloped potatoes and beans with peach pie. Then for supper I brought Market Day hamburgers and we ate in his room.
Don't have much else to say as everything is really goofy. Tomorrow, Bobbie and I are going to the American Club for the Christmas bazaar and having lunch at the Horse and Plow. I look forward to the break.
Love
Mary
We have an appointment at St. Luke's with the Hyperbaric doctor on December 2 at 10:00AM. Now I have to confirm that Tim from Custom Care and Transport can drive us.
I also have A & J Vans pricing out what it would cost to have a "lift" passenger seat put in the Explorer. Dick is learning to do a board transfer and this would be a seat that would swivel, come out, lower and then reverse to get Dick in the car without standing. Gene from A & J, as I said, is pricing it out. It is only one thing that we are checking but may be a "permanent" solution to transporting him. Tim is great but there is no funding for transportation and it is beginning to mount up, even locally.
I have several other possible sources of help that I will be calling in the next few days.
The rest of the day was spent just us together. I ate dinner with him in the dining room. We were served really good ham, scalloped potatoes and beans with peach pie. Then for supper I brought Market Day hamburgers and we ate in his room.
Don't have much else to say as everything is really goofy. Tomorrow, Bobbie and I are going to the American Club for the Christmas bazaar and having lunch at the Horse and Plow. I look forward to the break.
Love
Mary
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Had to get moving VERY early this morning because Dick had his appointment with Dr. Moreno at 9AM and we left the Center at 8:15.
I got hungry for a Mc Donalds Breakfast sandwich so stopped and picked up a bacon/egg/cheese biscuit. It tasted good.
No good news from Dr. Moreno. The largest wound on his right foot is now deep enough that it is VERY serious. Several things were discussed. First, he can no longer put ANY weight at all on that foot. Second, Dr. Moreno gave me the name of a hyperbaric doctor. We are going to see about getting an evaluation to see if he is a candidate for oxygen therapy. Third, if not or perhaps in conjunction with the oxygen therapy a graft might help it heal. Lastly If we cannot get it healed, we have to consider another amputation. Please pray very hard. We are discouraged.
I had lunch at Firehouse Pizza with members of the class of 1958. We plan on doing this every three months. This started with the gals but now the guys come too. It was good to see them and I had a chance to unwind a bit.
Then I went grocery shopping and back to stay with Dick. I ate supper with him. I did come home long enough to pick up my meal, take care of Chelsea and make some phone calls. Kate called while I was home. Pray for them too. Ron is having a minor surgery on Monday.
When we get our men healed, Kate and I are planning on a weekend somewhere, the four of us to relax and celebrate. Perhaps you would like to join us as you have traveled this journey with me.
Anyway. Tomorrow is a quiet day. Fr. Van Beeck is saying Mass at the Center and I will go. I will be firming up evaluations for the evaluations too.
Til tomorrow. I hope it will be much more upbeat then.
Love
Mary
FELLOW TRAVELER
Come back with me to yesterday
Rage one more time
Cry for past mistakes
Mourn over lost friends
Gloat over triumphs
Relive treasured joy
We journey there in memory.
Travel with me to tomorrow
Bring Peace to the world
Resolve world hunger
Make every child safe
Fly to distant planets
Explore the center of the earth
We travel there in imagination.
Then, walk with me today.
Hold my hand.
Work with me, side by side
Play with me in wild abandon.
Sing with me, shout out your song.
Pray with me and share your soul.
Love me. Stay with me.
Today we have.
I got hungry for a Mc Donalds Breakfast sandwich so stopped and picked up a bacon/egg/cheese biscuit. It tasted good.
No good news from Dr. Moreno. The largest wound on his right foot is now deep enough that it is VERY serious. Several things were discussed. First, he can no longer put ANY weight at all on that foot. Second, Dr. Moreno gave me the name of a hyperbaric doctor. We are going to see about getting an evaluation to see if he is a candidate for oxygen therapy. Third, if not or perhaps in conjunction with the oxygen therapy a graft might help it heal. Lastly If we cannot get it healed, we have to consider another amputation. Please pray very hard. We are discouraged.
I had lunch at Firehouse Pizza with members of the class of 1958. We plan on doing this every three months. This started with the gals but now the guys come too. It was good to see them and I had a chance to unwind a bit.
Then I went grocery shopping and back to stay with Dick. I ate supper with him. I did come home long enough to pick up my meal, take care of Chelsea and make some phone calls. Kate called while I was home. Pray for them too. Ron is having a minor surgery on Monday.
When we get our men healed, Kate and I are planning on a weekend somewhere, the four of us to relax and celebrate. Perhaps you would like to join us as you have traveled this journey with me.
Anyway. Tomorrow is a quiet day. Fr. Van Beeck is saying Mass at the Center and I will go. I will be firming up evaluations for the evaluations too.
Til tomorrow. I hope it will be much more upbeat then.
Love
Mary
FELLOW TRAVELER
Come back with me to yesterday
Rage one more time
Cry for past mistakes
Mourn over lost friends
Gloat over triumphs
Relive treasured joy
We journey there in memory.
Travel with me to tomorrow
Bring Peace to the world
Resolve world hunger
Make every child safe
Fly to distant planets
Explore the center of the earth
We travel there in imagination.
Then, walk with me today.
Hold my hand.
Work with me, side by side
Play with me in wild abandon.
Sing with me, shout out your song.
Pray with me and share your soul.
Love me. Stay with me.
Today we have.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
The day started VERY early. The phone rang at 4AM. It was Dick. He had a problem. The call button cord had broken, apparently it got caught in the bed mechanism or something, and he could not get help to his room. He was in bed and had been trying since 2:30 to get some one's attention. Finally he just called me. I looked up the number as I got my sweats and a jacket on and called as I was driving to the Center. When I got there they were just swinging him into his wheel chair. He was a bit shook and so sorry that he had to wake me. The staff had never seen a cord break like that before and told him that next time he should just YELL until someone answers. But - we had a better idea - he now has the number at the center desk and could just call them on his phone. They said that they used to have a patient who always called them because she could not remember how to use the call button.
So, I went home and tried to go back to sleep but that was rather futile. I got two short rests with perhaps a bit of sleep before I headed back to see him at 8:30AM.
I left again at 9:30 to pick up Chelsea for her appointment for another blood draw today. Not good news. The BUN level is still increasing and Dr. Connors is suggesting taking her off of one of the meds that helps the cough to see if that will help the kidneys. It is all iffy but the new med is supposed to be really good for the kidneys. We will just have to try it and see.
I took my lunch back to the Center and ate with Dick and the guys in the dining room after he had his PT. Then I took a nap. Not long, perhaps another half an hour but it helped. I stayed with Dick until 4:30PM. He had occupational therapy this afternoon but the rest of the time was quiet. We missed it but the social director had a special Veterans program. It was while Dick was having his therapy. But Ross had prepared a special framed certificate for each of the veterans. It has their name, branch of service and which war they served in. We put Dick's up on a shelf in his room. Ross also brought a red white and blue boutonniere which Dick wore proudly.
Anyway, I came home at 4:30PM and stayed. I am really tired. I had put pork chops and cabbage in the slow cooker so supper was easy. I called Bret at about 6PM and we had a lovely visit. He had called last night before I got home and was available again this evening. He sure sounds good and is planning on being back here for a visit next summer. Yippee.
I heard from Leslie today too. Her husband Bill's sister Debbie died yesterday. We all prayed for her earlier this year. Now we need to pray for Bill and his family.
Guess that is all the news.
A friend sent me the following quote from When Angels Speak: Inspiration from Touched by and Angel by Martha Williamson.
There are rivers for you to cross, but when you walk through the waters, He will be with you. There are mountains for you to climb. But when you cannot take another step...He will carry you. There are gardens, jungles, oceans, and caves. There are people to cherish and hearts to change. There is a life to live here. And He will hold your and all the way if you will just come into the light and have faith.
I think it is beautiful so should be shared with you all too.
Love
Mary
So, I went home and tried to go back to sleep but that was rather futile. I got two short rests with perhaps a bit of sleep before I headed back to see him at 8:30AM.
I left again at 9:30 to pick up Chelsea for her appointment for another blood draw today. Not good news. The BUN level is still increasing and Dr. Connors is suggesting taking her off of one of the meds that helps the cough to see if that will help the kidneys. It is all iffy but the new med is supposed to be really good for the kidneys. We will just have to try it and see.
I took my lunch back to the Center and ate with Dick and the guys in the dining room after he had his PT. Then I took a nap. Not long, perhaps another half an hour but it helped. I stayed with Dick until 4:30PM. He had occupational therapy this afternoon but the rest of the time was quiet. We missed it but the social director had a special Veterans program. It was while Dick was having his therapy. But Ross had prepared a special framed certificate for each of the veterans. It has their name, branch of service and which war they served in. We put Dick's up on a shelf in his room. Ross also brought a red white and blue boutonniere which Dick wore proudly.
Anyway, I came home at 4:30PM and stayed. I am really tired. I had put pork chops and cabbage in the slow cooker so supper was easy. I called Bret at about 6PM and we had a lovely visit. He had called last night before I got home and was available again this evening. He sure sounds good and is planning on being back here for a visit next summer. Yippee.
I heard from Leslie today too. Her husband Bill's sister Debbie died yesterday. We all prayed for her earlier this year. Now we need to pray for Bill and his family.
Guess that is all the news.
A friend sent me the following quote from When Angels Speak: Inspiration from Touched by and Angel by Martha Williamson.
There are rivers for you to cross, but when you walk through the waters, He will be with you. There are mountains for you to climb. But when you cannot take another step...He will carry you. There are gardens, jungles, oceans, and caves. There are people to cherish and hearts to change. There is a life to live here. And He will hold your and all the way if you will just come into the light and have faith.
I think it is beautiful so should be shared with you all too.
Love
Mary
Monday, November 10, 2008
Cold, Cold, Cold.
That is all I have to say for today.
I went to Bible Study in Sheboygan Falls for my usual Monday morning. We had a group of 8 of us. The readings all related to using your talents to the best of your ability. The first reading was from the last book in Proverbs relating to the Ideal Wife. The last was the parable from Matthew about the landowner who gave three of his servants money when he went on a trip. Two doubled his money and one buried it and the one who buried it was in REAL trouble. Guess we are supposed to use what we have, be it talent or money.
Then I stopped and visited with Mother for a while. She is just fine and staying warm. She went to church yesterday. It was clear though cold and someone, usually Shirley Carpenter, always walk her home. We set a date to go out to Gibbsville to get the Christmas cheese boxes AND I told her that Bobbie will go with us on December 10 to see The King and I at Horace Mann.
I took a couple of things, including some of my Zupa Toscana, over to Kate on my way back to the Center at about noon and had a cup of tea with Kate. Keep praying for Ron. He sounds good, but there are things that need praying for.
Then I spent all afternoon with Dick, including eating supper with him, except of course for coming home to walk and feed the Chelsea girl at about 4:30PM..
I always come home at about 7PM so that I can get things done and prepare for bed. Chelsea is impossible. I have been home less than an hour and have taken her out twice. She had been very good and is now whimpering at me again. I know she is confused but wish she could talk. One doesn't know if she just wants to go to bed, if she REALLY has to go out, or if she just wants attention. And I still miss my kitties, even if they would mean more work for me.
So that is what is happening in our world. Soon it will be time to settle into a nice warm bed for the night.
Be safe and I will say a prayer for you all tonight that tomorrow is perfect.
Love
Mary
That is all I have to say for today.
I went to Bible Study in Sheboygan Falls for my usual Monday morning. We had a group of 8 of us. The readings all related to using your talents to the best of your ability. The first reading was from the last book in Proverbs relating to the Ideal Wife. The last was the parable from Matthew about the landowner who gave three of his servants money when he went on a trip. Two doubled his money and one buried it and the one who buried it was in REAL trouble. Guess we are supposed to use what we have, be it talent or money.
Then I stopped and visited with Mother for a while. She is just fine and staying warm. She went to church yesterday. It was clear though cold and someone, usually Shirley Carpenter, always walk her home. We set a date to go out to Gibbsville to get the Christmas cheese boxes AND I told her that Bobbie will go with us on December 10 to see The King and I at Horace Mann.
I took a couple of things, including some of my Zupa Toscana, over to Kate on my way back to the Center at about noon and had a cup of tea with Kate. Keep praying for Ron. He sounds good, but there are things that need praying for.
Then I spent all afternoon with Dick, including eating supper with him, except of course for coming home to walk and feed the Chelsea girl at about 4:30PM..
I always come home at about 7PM so that I can get things done and prepare for bed. Chelsea is impossible. I have been home less than an hour and have taken her out twice. She had been very good and is now whimpering at me again. I know she is confused but wish she could talk. One doesn't know if she just wants to go to bed, if she REALLY has to go out, or if she just wants attention. And I still miss my kitties, even if they would mean more work for me.
So that is what is happening in our world. Soon it will be time to settle into a nice warm bed for the night.
Be safe and I will say a prayer for you all tonight that tomorrow is perfect.
Love
Mary
Sunday, November 09, 2008
There were a few snow flurries this afternoon. Nothing accumulated today either. Chelsea and I went out just as the day was dawning and had a brisk but pleasant walk. When it is not windy, I do not mind the cold.
I spent a good chunk of the morning sitting with Dick, then came home to walk Chelsea and fix and eat my lunch so I could get back at a proper time to take off his stump shrinker and let his leg breath before we put the clean one back on.
Jim and Michelle came over at close to half time of the Packer game (Boy was THAT a disappointment. Got to have good kickers or we are out of luck. The game was pretty good up til then too.) Did I tell you that Ross, the social director, put up a tribute to the veterans in the solarium? He did a nice job and I had brought in a picture of Dick in Korea. So Jim and Michelle got to see it. Jim remembers wearing the shirt that Dick wore in the shot. I never knew him when he was so young.
I zipped home again at 4:30 to feed Chelsea and pick up soup and a sandwich for my dinner. Dick and I ate together in his room.
I sewed on the tea caddy that I am making.
Altogether it was a lazy, quiet, uneventful Sunday. Just the way we like it. We are renewing our cribbage skills too.
The other day I was talking to a friend and she mentioned an Indian tradition. It reminded me of the true story of the Choctow Indians who sent money to Ireland during the famine. The following is from Wicapedia
Midway through the Great Irish Famine (1845–1849), a group of Choctaws collected $710 (although many articles say the original amount was $170 after a misprint in Angi Debo's "The Rise and Fall of the Choctaw Nation") and sent it to help starving Irish men, women and children. "It had been just 16 years since the Choctaw people had experienced the Trail of Tears, and they had faced starvation ... It was an amazing gesture. By today's standards, it might be a million dollars" according to Judy Allen, editor of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma's newspaper, Bishinik, based at the Oklahoma Choctaw tribal headquarters in Durant, Oklahoma. To mark the 150th anniversary, eight Irish people retraced the Trail of Tears.[54]
I have always been impressed by their generosity. One year at Irish Fest, a Choctaw artist called Gary White Deer showed his work. I got a book mark but would really like a print or something of his work.
Love
Mary
I spent a good chunk of the morning sitting with Dick, then came home to walk Chelsea and fix and eat my lunch so I could get back at a proper time to take off his stump shrinker and let his leg breath before we put the clean one back on.
Jim and Michelle came over at close to half time of the Packer game (Boy was THAT a disappointment. Got to have good kickers or we are out of luck. The game was pretty good up til then too.) Did I tell you that Ross, the social director, put up a tribute to the veterans in the solarium? He did a nice job and I had brought in a picture of Dick in Korea. So Jim and Michelle got to see it. Jim remembers wearing the shirt that Dick wore in the shot. I never knew him when he was so young.
I zipped home again at 4:30 to feed Chelsea and pick up soup and a sandwich for my dinner. Dick and I ate together in his room.
I sewed on the tea caddy that I am making.
Altogether it was a lazy, quiet, uneventful Sunday. Just the way we like it. We are renewing our cribbage skills too.
The other day I was talking to a friend and she mentioned an Indian tradition. It reminded me of the true story of the Choctow Indians who sent money to Ireland during the famine. The following is from Wicapedia
Midway through the Great Irish Famine (1845–1849), a group of Choctaws collected $710 (although many articles say the original amount was $170 after a misprint in Angi Debo's "The Rise and Fall of the Choctaw Nation") and sent it to help starving Irish men, women and children. "It had been just 16 years since the Choctaw people had experienced the Trail of Tears, and they had faced starvation ... It was an amazing gesture. By today's standards, it might be a million dollars" according to Judy Allen, editor of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma's newspaper, Bishinik, based at the Oklahoma Choctaw tribal headquarters in Durant, Oklahoma. To mark the 150th anniversary, eight Irish people retraced the Trail of Tears.[54]
I have always been impressed by their generosity. One year at Irish Fest, a Choctaw artist called Gary White Deer showed his work. I got a book mark but would really like a print or something of his work.
Love
Mary
Saturday, November 08, 2008
We had snow off and on all day today. It was mixed with rain. When Chelsea and I went for the walk it was kind of sprinkling. To top it off, my sox kept sliding down into my boots, SO, we did not walk very far.
I washed the sheets this morning and folded two loads of clothes. Had to bring Dick his shorts and some clean tshirts. Then I went over to spend the morning with him at about 9AM. That time seems to be a good start time. It gives me plenty of time to get ready without rushing AND to spend some time with Chelsea.
Without therapy, it was pretty quiet for us. Peggy, the wife of the guy across the hall from Dick, came in and we had a visit. She is the one that has joined our Plymouth writers club. Actually, there was a bit of excitement today, one of the noisier residents was yelling, she sometimes gets pretty wild.
I left at 11:30AM to eat lunch and walk the dog. I have finished the Christmas stitcheries that I was working on and have moved on to the rabbit tea cup holder that I bought at the Quilt Show. That won't take too long, I can see already. Guess I'll go back to some crocheting, maybe another little critter or some cancer hats.
Dick and I decided that tomorrow we are going to start playing cribbage again too. We will see how much we remember. It has been years. When we were dating, Dick taught me to play because we needed someway to spend out evenings. We weren't bar people and after a while one runs out of movies so we needed something. We played for several years for $100.00 a game. He still says I owe him thousands. I know I ended up behind but me thinks he exaggerates.
The Center was serving stew tonight, so I took out a container of mine and went over and ate it with him.
I went to church at 4PM so now tomorrow I can be kind of lazy.
Take care.
Love
Mary
I washed the sheets this morning and folded two loads of clothes. Had to bring Dick his shorts and some clean tshirts. Then I went over to spend the morning with him at about 9AM. That time seems to be a good start time. It gives me plenty of time to get ready without rushing AND to spend some time with Chelsea.
Without therapy, it was pretty quiet for us. Peggy, the wife of the guy across the hall from Dick, came in and we had a visit. She is the one that has joined our Plymouth writers club. Actually, there was a bit of excitement today, one of the noisier residents was yelling, she sometimes gets pretty wild.
I left at 11:30AM to eat lunch and walk the dog. I have finished the Christmas stitcheries that I was working on and have moved on to the rabbit tea cup holder that I bought at the Quilt Show. That won't take too long, I can see already. Guess I'll go back to some crocheting, maybe another little critter or some cancer hats.
Dick and I decided that tomorrow we are going to start playing cribbage again too. We will see how much we remember. It has been years. When we were dating, Dick taught me to play because we needed someway to spend out evenings. We weren't bar people and after a while one runs out of movies so we needed something. We played for several years for $100.00 a game. He still says I owe him thousands. I know I ended up behind but me thinks he exaggerates.
The Center was serving stew tonight, so I took out a container of mine and went over and ate it with him.
I went to church at 4PM so now tomorrow I can be kind of lazy.
Take care.
Love
Mary
Friday, November 07, 2008
Another week almost finished. It was an eventful day. Chelsea and I did our thing this morning until 9AM when I drove on over to the Care Center to be with Dick.
I got there just after breakfast and just before Leah came to take him down for his PT. Lori kept him busy this morning. He did the leg lifts, a board transfer, stood up AND got his stump rewrapped. By then he was tired. We got back up to the room at about 10:30 or so, just before I had to leave for the dentist.
My appointment was at 11:00. I was there for a cleaning and wing something xrays. I mentioned that I have had cold sensitivity on my gold tooth. The dentist says that that IS a root canal but there is a big gap between the teeth and the only thing he can recommend is a recapping of the tooth with enamel and rebuilding the tooth. So I guess I will have to do that. The technician that worked on me had bad news. She has, since I saw her last, lost her mother and her daughter gave birth to a preemie who only lived for an hour an a half. I was able to share my experience with her but I feel sad tonight. Sad for her and sad for her daughter and sad for me. I told her to tell her daughter that that hour and a half will be forever with her.
I came home then and heated up the bean soup for Dick and me for lunch. He wasn't thrilled with the lunch choices today and I had planned on bringing the soup for supper, so we flip flopped. When I got back there the prosthesis guy was waiting for him in therapy. He was there to measure and fit Dick for Stump Shrinker stockings for his stump. This will be SO much easier. Of Course this happened just one day after Lori taught four of the nurses on the floor how to properly wrap the stump with an ace bandage. Well - they will know now when the next amputee comes onto the floor. And this WILL happen.
I went shopping this afternoon. I had to drop some pills and money off at Mother's so I made a big circle. I went to Woodlake to buy Chorizo for the chili I intend to make in a week, to Office Max to buy ink cartridges AND to Shopco and Dunhams looking for shorts for Dick.
On the way home I stopped and picked up my dinner to eat with Dick and give meds to Chelsea. Then I went back to the center. Bobbie was there visiting. Good for her Dad. He needs others besides just me. When I went home to feed Chelsea, I had a lovely surprise. The cleaning elves had come while I was gone and my house was sparkling.
Tonight, when one of the CNA's was helping Dick, she commented on how much thinner his legs and arms are. She said that he was not longer the "big fat guy". She is a real kick. Such a light in the long days that he has to spend there. She also said he would make a good Santa Claus. She doesn't know that he IS MY Santa Claus. So many of the nurses and CNAs are so kind and really are obviously becoming fond of him. He is his charming self.
I miss him being here. I hope that he heals quickly and that we can have him home soon.
Jeff Foxworthy said"
" If someone in a store offers you assistance, and they
don't work there, you might live in Wisconsin ."
Doesn't sound like a bad thing to me.
Love
Mary
I got there just after breakfast and just before Leah came to take him down for his PT. Lori kept him busy this morning. He did the leg lifts, a board transfer, stood up AND got his stump rewrapped. By then he was tired. We got back up to the room at about 10:30 or so, just before I had to leave for the dentist.
My appointment was at 11:00. I was there for a cleaning and wing something xrays. I mentioned that I have had cold sensitivity on my gold tooth. The dentist says that that IS a root canal but there is a big gap between the teeth and the only thing he can recommend is a recapping of the tooth with enamel and rebuilding the tooth. So I guess I will have to do that. The technician that worked on me had bad news. She has, since I saw her last, lost her mother and her daughter gave birth to a preemie who only lived for an hour an a half. I was able to share my experience with her but I feel sad tonight. Sad for her and sad for her daughter and sad for me. I told her to tell her daughter that that hour and a half will be forever with her.
I came home then and heated up the bean soup for Dick and me for lunch. He wasn't thrilled with the lunch choices today and I had planned on bringing the soup for supper, so we flip flopped. When I got back there the prosthesis guy was waiting for him in therapy. He was there to measure and fit Dick for Stump Shrinker stockings for his stump. This will be SO much easier. Of Course this happened just one day after Lori taught four of the nurses on the floor how to properly wrap the stump with an ace bandage. Well - they will know now when the next amputee comes onto the floor. And this WILL happen.
I went shopping this afternoon. I had to drop some pills and money off at Mother's so I made a big circle. I went to Woodlake to buy Chorizo for the chili I intend to make in a week, to Office Max to buy ink cartridges AND to Shopco and Dunhams looking for shorts for Dick.
On the way home I stopped and picked up my dinner to eat with Dick and give meds to Chelsea. Then I went back to the center. Bobbie was there visiting. Good for her Dad. He needs others besides just me. When I went home to feed Chelsea, I had a lovely surprise. The cleaning elves had come while I was gone and my house was sparkling.
Tonight, when one of the CNA's was helping Dick, she commented on how much thinner his legs and arms are. She said that he was not longer the "big fat guy". She is a real kick. Such a light in the long days that he has to spend there. She also said he would make a good Santa Claus. She doesn't know that he IS MY Santa Claus. So many of the nurses and CNAs are so kind and really are obviously becoming fond of him. He is his charming self.
I miss him being here. I hope that he heals quickly and that we can have him home soon.
Jeff Foxworthy said"
" If someone in a store offers you assistance, and they
don't work there, you might live in Wisconsin ."
Doesn't sound like a bad thing to me.
Love
Mary
Thursday, November 06, 2008
Well, I believe that the Indian Summer is about over. It was pleasant enough when Chelsea and I took our walk but started raining before the morning was over with.
I did stay home today. However, I had to leave twice for the car. First, Gary called and told me to come between 11:30 and 12:00. I did and it was not quite ready, so I came home and had lunch, then went back to get it. It looks great. He had it waiting inside the building so I would not have to get wet starting out.
I worked on the bank accounts today. I am all caught up, though there are some refinements that I want to do if I have to continue with this.
The only three exciting things that happened today were the following:
At about noon, the doorbell rang. I went to see who it was. It was the van from Aurora and the gentleman, who had previously made deliveries, said that he was here to pick up the wheel chair. Obviously, I was taken aback and told him that the chair was not here and asked why he was picking it up anyway. I asked why nobody had called. Then he said that he HAD called, so we looked at the order and it was not our number. He started to laugh about then as he looked that the address which was on June Grass, not Tallgrass. He said he pulled into the complex and since he had been here a couple of times before just assumed that this was the place. Pretty bad when I was thinking that they were taking a wheelchair away from a man without a leg. Glad we settled that. I told him that he would make the blog tonight.
I talked to Jeff tonight. We are trying to figure out how to builthe ramp that we need for Dick. Jeff is such a help. I know that we can't bring Dick home without one. He said he will call when he and Randy go out in the woods to check out our hunting spots. I don't see any reason why I won't be able to hunt this year. I can ask someone to be checking in on Dick.
The other exciting thing was that I ran into the order from the Tastefully Simple party that I had attended a couple of weeks ago. I had two items on back order. There was no designated delivery date but it has been a while, so I called Jan. She had just received it on Tuesday, so brought it over tonight and we had a nice visit.
Tomorrow I have a dentist appointment and several errands.
Guess that is all. Take care of yourself. You are worth it.
Love
Mary
I did stay home today. However, I had to leave twice for the car. First, Gary called and told me to come between 11:30 and 12:00. I did and it was not quite ready, so I came home and had lunch, then went back to get it. It looks great. He had it waiting inside the building so I would not have to get wet starting out.
I worked on the bank accounts today. I am all caught up, though there are some refinements that I want to do if I have to continue with this.
The only three exciting things that happened today were the following:
At about noon, the doorbell rang. I went to see who it was. It was the van from Aurora and the gentleman, who had previously made deliveries, said that he was here to pick up the wheel chair. Obviously, I was taken aback and told him that the chair was not here and asked why he was picking it up anyway. I asked why nobody had called. Then he said that he HAD called, so we looked at the order and it was not our number. He started to laugh about then as he looked that the address which was on June Grass, not Tallgrass. He said he pulled into the complex and since he had been here a couple of times before just assumed that this was the place. Pretty bad when I was thinking that they were taking a wheelchair away from a man without a leg. Glad we settled that. I told him that he would make the blog tonight.
I talked to Jeff tonight. We are trying to figure out how to builthe ramp that we need for Dick. Jeff is such a help. I know that we can't bring Dick home without one. He said he will call when he and Randy go out in the woods to check out our hunting spots. I don't see any reason why I won't be able to hunt this year. I can ask someone to be checking in on Dick.
The other exciting thing was that I ran into the order from the Tastefully Simple party that I had attended a couple of weeks ago. I had two items on back order. There was no designated delivery date but it has been a while, so I called Jan. She had just received it on Tuesday, so brought it over tonight and we had a nice visit.
Tomorrow I have a dentist appointment and several errands.
Guess that is all. Take care of yourself. You are worth it.
Love
Mary
Wednesday, November 05, 2008
This was supposed to be another day in the 70s but it did not make it. Chelsea keeps waking me up before 5 but I am letting her out and then going right back to bed and sleeping until 6. It is becoming light then, so we take our walk right away. She is still perky on those walks.
I was supposed to pick up the Explorer at 9AM. SO. I did a few things around her, took Dick a clean shirt, gassed up the loaner and went to the bank on my way over to the Auto Repair Center. Gary and I took care of the payment and all, then Gary said that he wanted me to look at one thing on the Explorer. I was confused. We went out and he asked me to look at the hood. There were pits scattered over a good portion of the hood. He asked me if I knew what they were and I said, " The Glass." I remembered that there was glass all over my hood after the accident. He said that this is all he had to hear.
I don't have the car yet. They are going to repaint the hood too. I am sure glad this came out. I might not have noticed until there was serious rust this winter. So. I will be picking it up tomorrow or the next day.
I stopped at the Care Center and caught Dick in the middle of his shower, Occupational Therapy and getting his leg re-bandaged. So I decided to go and do my grocery shopping and fix lunch. I got back as he was finishing PHYSICAL THERAPY and we went upstairs and I ate my lunch with him.
I came home at about 4PM with a stop at WalMart to buy more minutes for Dick's Cell AND I found him two new shirts. I ate supper here with Chelsea and then went back to spend part of the evening with him..
Tomorrow, we decided that I am staying home. With any luck at all, I will not have to go ANYWHERE. I want to rest and just putter and work on the computer.
There is a football game tomorrow night. Good thing I get a warning.
Did I tell you that my Bret tried out for Pop Warner Football when he was young. It was the only sport that he tried out for that he did not want to stay the season. It really surprised me because he loved watching it on TV. He had played baseball and basketball for years but did not like PLAYING football. He still likes watching it. Oh well, for years he did not like avocados but loved guacamole.
Maxine says/ "Voting is like choosing your favorite mosquito out of a swarm."
Mary
I was supposed to pick up the Explorer at 9AM. SO. I did a few things around her, took Dick a clean shirt, gassed up the loaner and went to the bank on my way over to the Auto Repair Center. Gary and I took care of the payment and all, then Gary said that he wanted me to look at one thing on the Explorer. I was confused. We went out and he asked me to look at the hood. There were pits scattered over a good portion of the hood. He asked me if I knew what they were and I said, " The Glass." I remembered that there was glass all over my hood after the accident. He said that this is all he had to hear.
I don't have the car yet. They are going to repaint the hood too. I am sure glad this came out. I might not have noticed until there was serious rust this winter. So. I will be picking it up tomorrow or the next day.
I stopped at the Care Center and caught Dick in the middle of his shower, Occupational Therapy and getting his leg re-bandaged. So I decided to go and do my grocery shopping and fix lunch. I got back as he was finishing PHYSICAL THERAPY and we went upstairs and I ate my lunch with him.
I came home at about 4PM with a stop at WalMart to buy more minutes for Dick's Cell AND I found him two new shirts. I ate supper here with Chelsea and then went back to spend part of the evening with him..
Tomorrow, we decided that I am staying home. With any luck at all, I will not have to go ANYWHERE. I want to rest and just putter and work on the computer.
There is a football game tomorrow night. Good thing I get a warning.
Did I tell you that my Bret tried out for Pop Warner Football when he was young. It was the only sport that he tried out for that he did not want to stay the season. It really surprised me because he loved watching it on TV. He had played baseball and basketball for years but did not like PLAYING football. He still likes watching it. Oh well, for years he did not like avocados but loved guacamole.
Maxine says/ "Voting is like choosing your favorite mosquito out of a swarm."
Mary
Tuesday, November 04, 2008
Another "spring" day. I sure will be glad when Chelsea gets into this daylight savings time mode. It doesn't do me much good when she starts pestering me at 4:30AM.
Chelsea had her doctor appointment at 10AM. Her B.U.N. level is up a couple of points so we need to check next month. We don't know if there should be more tweeking of meds or not as of yet. She also had her picture taken for their file and she posed quite nicely (with a little bribery). I am sure glad that I gave her a bath yesterday.
After we left there, I took her over to see Dick. We do not stay long. She is not the greatest visitor. She paces and pants. But she was glad to see him.
When I took her home, I worked on paying bills and fixed lunch for myself. Then got back at 12:30.
Today, Dick had his physical therapy at 1:00 instead of in the morning because a Timothy Kading of Wisconsin Prosthetics was there and evaluated Dick for future prosthetics. It was interesting. He said that the wound is healing quite well, but needs some time yet. The next step will be a shrinking stocking. I don't think that is quite the right term but it is a stocking made of ace bandage type material which will help to shrink and shape the stump so it will fit nicely into the prosthesis. We learned a lot. We know for sure now that Thanksgiving is out of reach but Christmas might work.
I still would like him to come home for the day on Thanksgiving. but that might not be possible either. I am kind of lonely here in the evenings. Good thing I have our Chelsea. Wish my kitties were here too.
I took Chicken Pot Pies for us to eat together tonight in his room as we watched the beginning political stuff. I have to leave at 7 most nights though. Otherwise I cannot get stuff done around here and get to bed at a reasonable hour.
I got a call from Gary at Mike Burkhart Ford. The Explorer is all fixed and I will pick it up tomorrow morning. The loaner, an Escape, was a nice car to drive. I just have to fill the tank in the morning on the way over. Tomorrow will now be very busy as I have to shop too.
Time to wind up. I blessed Dick with some of the water that Joe brought back for me from Lourdes.
Love
Mary
Chelsea had her doctor appointment at 10AM. Her B.U.N. level is up a couple of points so we need to check next month. We don't know if there should be more tweeking of meds or not as of yet. She also had her picture taken for their file and she posed quite nicely (with a little bribery). I am sure glad that I gave her a bath yesterday.
After we left there, I took her over to see Dick. We do not stay long. She is not the greatest visitor. She paces and pants. But she was glad to see him.
When I took her home, I worked on paying bills and fixed lunch for myself. Then got back at 12:30.
Today, Dick had his physical therapy at 1:00 instead of in the morning because a Timothy Kading of Wisconsin Prosthetics was there and evaluated Dick for future prosthetics. It was interesting. He said that the wound is healing quite well, but needs some time yet. The next step will be a shrinking stocking. I don't think that is quite the right term but it is a stocking made of ace bandage type material which will help to shrink and shape the stump so it will fit nicely into the prosthesis. We learned a lot. We know for sure now that Thanksgiving is out of reach but Christmas might work.
I still would like him to come home for the day on Thanksgiving. but that might not be possible either. I am kind of lonely here in the evenings. Good thing I have our Chelsea. Wish my kitties were here too.
I took Chicken Pot Pies for us to eat together tonight in his room as we watched the beginning political stuff. I have to leave at 7 most nights though. Otherwise I cannot get stuff done around here and get to bed at a reasonable hour.
I got a call from Gary at Mike Burkhart Ford. The Explorer is all fixed and I will pick it up tomorrow morning. The loaner, an Escape, was a nice car to drive. I just have to fill the tank in the morning on the way over. Tomorrow will now be very busy as I have to shop too.
Time to wind up. I blessed Dick with some of the water that Joe brought back for me from Lourdes.
Love
Mary
Monday, November 03, 2008
It felt like spring most of the day. We must keep these days in our hearts to help warm us during the long cold winter that we know will come.
Chelsea and I had a nice walk and ran into a couple of the walkers that we had not seen for a while. With the time change, I was able to take her out about 6:15 as it was light. So we were done before my shower. This was rather distressing for Chelsea, actually, because I decided that as this was going to be a warm day it would be a perfect day for a doggie bath. So after my shower, I "invited" her to join me and scrubbed her down good. She is absolutely beautiful.
I swung by to see Dick on my way to bible study. I also stopped at Kate's. Ron is home and she had to get some prescriptions filled. I offered to get them as they were being filled in Kohler at Woodlake. It seemed that as I was going to Sheboygan Falls anyway, it was no big shakes to swing into Kohler and then she did not have to leave Ron. I dropped them off on the way to spend the afternoon with Dick. Ron and Kate were out in their back yard enjoying the wonderful sun and warmth and eating lunch. So I got mine out of the car and joined them. Ron is bruised up and tired, but seemed to be in good spirits. Maybe he was putting that on for me, but if he was able to pull it off, that is good enough.
We had had a wonderful bible study this morning. Joe, one of our guys, had just returned from a Marion trip to Lourdes and Fatima with his wife. He brought each of us some Lourdes water and a holy card from Fatima. Tomorrow, I am going to bless Dick with that water. I shared some with Kate so she can bless Ron too.
Kate asked what we should do. I told her I am going to sprinkle it as I am sure that I won't be able to get Dick to drink it. Ron said he won't drink it either. Kate and I are the ones with the faith, I think. That is enough. God understands.
Mother is just fine. We had a nice visit.
Tonight was the Rhine meeting so I went there when I left Dick. Nothing too exciting going on. Elections are next month. I am not nominated. Thank God. Rachel was selling FHA fruit and I bought a mixed case of oranges and grapefruit. Dick can't have grapefruit, but I love it and a half a case should be manageable. Their fruit is always SO good.
Tomorrow, Chelsea gets another blood test. Hope the kidneys look better.
Guess that is all for now.
Love
Mary
Chelsea and I had a nice walk and ran into a couple of the walkers that we had not seen for a while. With the time change, I was able to take her out about 6:15 as it was light. So we were done before my shower. This was rather distressing for Chelsea, actually, because I decided that as this was going to be a warm day it would be a perfect day for a doggie bath. So after my shower, I "invited" her to join me and scrubbed her down good. She is absolutely beautiful.
I swung by to see Dick on my way to bible study. I also stopped at Kate's. Ron is home and she had to get some prescriptions filled. I offered to get them as they were being filled in Kohler at Woodlake. It seemed that as I was going to Sheboygan Falls anyway, it was no big shakes to swing into Kohler and then she did not have to leave Ron. I dropped them off on the way to spend the afternoon with Dick. Ron and Kate were out in their back yard enjoying the wonderful sun and warmth and eating lunch. So I got mine out of the car and joined them. Ron is bruised up and tired, but seemed to be in good spirits. Maybe he was putting that on for me, but if he was able to pull it off, that is good enough.
We had had a wonderful bible study this morning. Joe, one of our guys, had just returned from a Marion trip to Lourdes and Fatima with his wife. He brought each of us some Lourdes water and a holy card from Fatima. Tomorrow, I am going to bless Dick with that water. I shared some with Kate so she can bless Ron too.
Kate asked what we should do. I told her I am going to sprinkle it as I am sure that I won't be able to get Dick to drink it. Ron said he won't drink it either. Kate and I are the ones with the faith, I think. That is enough. God understands.
Mother is just fine. We had a nice visit.
Tonight was the Rhine meeting so I went there when I left Dick. Nothing too exciting going on. Elections are next month. I am not nominated. Thank God. Rachel was selling FHA fruit and I bought a mixed case of oranges and grapefruit. Dick can't have grapefruit, but I love it and a half a case should be manageable. Their fruit is always SO good.
Tomorrow, Chelsea gets another blood test. Hope the kidneys look better.
Guess that is all for now.
Love
Mary
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