My Rick's Grandson

[itsrea]

You remember I told you that last year Rick's oldeat son (Tim) died?

We have had a call that Tim's son, Zack (16 yrs old) is in the hospital and has been pronounced brain-dead. Zack's mom and step-dad just this last summer moved to Wisconsin, and with it being long-distance first reports are sketchy - so all we know so far is that this is that this is a alcohol overdose. We don't know if he was in an accident or if he just drank too much.

We just got the call that Zack's mother (Rick's ex-DIL) is on her way to the hospital to sign so they can disconnect the machines.

Please pray for Rick and his family.

[EmmanuelGoldstein]

Oh no. I am so very sorry.

[bella-day]

You remember I told you that last year Rick's oldeat son (Tim) died?
We have had a call that Tim's son, Zack (16 yrs old) is in the hospital and has been pronounced brain-dead. Zack's mom and step-dad just this last summer moved to Wisconsin, and with it being long-distance first reports are sketchy - so all we know so far is that this is that this is a alcohol overdose. We don't know if he was in an accident or if he just drank too much.

We just got the call that Zack's mother (Rick's ex-DIL) is on her way to the hospital to sign so they can disconnect the machines.

Please pray for Rick and his family.


Oh Rea, I'm so sorry that this horror is found its way into you and Rick's lives.

Prayers for you and Rick of course. Prayers also for Zack and his Mom. I can't imagine how difficult this must be for all of you.

:hug:

[rhet 2]

Oh, LORD, have MERCY, please.

This family has endured so much grief and pain. Move to comfort and preserve their love one for another, to strengthen each and every one of them -- especially mother and grandfather -- against the grief they must endure. Let this nightmare world we live in strengthen their courage and their faith, locking all of them even tighter into Your Arms -- and into the loving arms of each other -- and not the reverse.

Work this out so that such terrible heavy grief somehow turns into blessing for Zack -- and give comfort for a family that has endured far too much grief as it is.

My heart aches for your family, Rea. It surely does.

[Hadassah]

Oh, LORD, have MERCY, please.

This family has endured so much grief and pain. Move to comfort and preserve their love one for another, to strengthen each and every one of them -- especially mother and grandfather -- against the grief they must endure. Let this nightmare world we live in strengthen their courage and their faith, locking all of them even tighter into Your Arms -- and into the loving arms of each other -- and not the reverse.

Work this out so that such terrible heavy grief somehow turns into blessing for Zack -- and give comfort for a family that has endured far too much grief as it is.

My heart aches for your family, Rea. It surely does.


Amen.


I have no words of my own. All I can offer you is my prayers, tears and hugs.

[itsrea]

We are still waiting word.. apparently they are waiting for what family is in the area to gather around Zack before disconnecting him from life support. We see these things happen on TV and what they don't show are the people sitting at home waiting for that call - it's absolutely terrible, this waiting. He is such a special young man, and has struggled so much since his father died last year, and we all thought that he was doing better since the move.





The pastor just left. Some of Rick's family have called.







I don't care if I EVER see another drop of alcohol again as long as I live.

[birdonawire]

Oh sweet Jesus be with this family. :pray:

[rhet 2]

We are still waiting word.. apparently they are waiting for what family is in the area to gather around Zack before disconnecting him from life support. We see these things happen on TV and what they don't show are the people sitting at home waiting for that call - it's absolutely terrible, this waiting. He is such a special young man, and has struggled so much since his father died last year, and we all thought that he was doing better since the move.





The pastor just left. Some of Rick's family have called.







I don't care if I EVER see another drop of alcohol again as long as I live.

With alcoholics in my own family, I hear you. Ditto the crack and the marijuana and the uppers and the downers and the designer Self-Destructors, too.

I'm so very very sorry, dear one.

And, yeah, hanging by the phone in agony of not-knowing is the bottom layer of hell in this world.

[JenyEliza]

Praying for you and yours, Rea. I am absolutely devastated by this news, as I know you and Rick are as well. :cry: :cry: :cry:

Keep us posted, we'll be praying. :pray: :pray: :pray:

[Seanachie]

It's news like this that makes you try to believe in miracles. Here's hoping that my firm belief in them will come true in that young Man's corner. My thoughts and prayers are offered up for all of you with that 'Big Guy'.

[itsrea]

Apparently the State of Wisconson requires two more tests to verify no brain activity so they are running those tests before removing Zack from life support.

I told Rick if ever we were going to pray for a miracle now would be the time, so, willing ourselves to accept whatever the Lord's Will is, we have prayed that the Lord would reach out and touch Zack and restore him to health.

It's strange, but as painful as this waiting is, now it is not so much painful waiting on the Lord as it was waiting on the phone.

Painful, but not so much so.

[rhet 2]

Apparently the State of Wisconson requires two more tests to verify no brain activity so they are running those tests before removing Zack from life support.

I told Rick if ever we were going to pray for a miracle now would be the time, so, willing ourselves to accept whatever the Lord's Will is, we have prayed that the Lord would reach out and touch Zack and restore him to health.

It's strange, but as painful as this waiting is, now it is not so much painful waiting on the Lord as it was waiting on the phone.

Painful, but not so much so.

I'll keep praying for that miracle.

At least, your hearts are a little eased -- sort of. :hug:

[USMCmom]

There are no words....Your in my prayers...

[jwil59]

I cannot even imagine how painfull this must be

I am praying for you guys Rea, Hang tough

[doodle5]

OH NO!!

My prayers continual!!

Carlene

[itsrea]

Zack's alcohol level is so high that they are unable to complete the last test - if Zack makes it through the night they will attempt the test sometime tomorrow morning. His mother and step-father have gone home for showers then will go back and spend the night with Zack. His sister is at her step-father's parents so that Zack's grandparents can come and go.

I'll update if we get any news.

[jwil59]

Zack's alcohol level is so high that they are unable to complete the last test - if Zack makes it through the night they will attempt the test sometime tomorrow morning. His mother and step-father have gone home for showers then will go back and spend the night with Zack. His sister is at her step-father's parents so that Zack's grandparents can come and go.

I'll update if we get any news.

I am praying Rea...........

[repchick]

Praying about this as I have a 17 yr old daughter and could not imagine the pain his family is going through. :pray:

[bella-day]

Rea,
I pray you and Rick were able to get some rest last night. Waiting for news can be sheer agony.

Praying for a miracle for Zack and that God be with you all in your time of need.

[itsrea]

At 6 (8 a.m. Wisconsin time) this morning we got the call that Zack was pronounced dead and was immediately moved to surgery where the transplant teams were waiting to harvest what they could for transplants into those that need these organs. Unable to cry we just laid and held onto each other until it was time to get ready for church.. Rick says at least someone might see or have a healthy heart from all this heartache.

Before the sermon the pastor asked Rick and I to come forward with the elders of the church and, per our application, were accepted into the membership - one of the elders, the gentleman that had the stroke awhile back told Rick NOW you have us all as family and can turn to us when you need to.

During the alter call Rick went forward to ask for prayers for his family - some of the men-friends we've made since starting this church went forward as soon as they saw him go, and laid hands on him, then the pastor and the elders came along and all prayed for him.. many of the women were moved to go forward too - my good friend Lonetta took me by the hand and led me to Rick and said lay your hands on him.. which I did and we all prayed. As we praying for him Rick turned to us and we formed a circle and the Lord told me to tell Rick to open his mouth and pray so I reached over to his chin, lifted it until he looked at me and said God says open your mouth and pray. So he did. Then God spoke to Rick through the Holy Spirit and Lonetta laid her hand on Rick's chest and interpreted. God told Rick all that I can do you can do through me... you have the power, MY power and you must speak for me, do for me, act for me.

On the way home I told Rick God just told you that you are the head of our families and that you have to get to work. He kinda gasped and said I know.

This is going to be a huge step for Rick to take, to step out to make sure his kids and grandkids are told about the Lord, to step out in faith that MY kids and grandkids will accept what he has to say, and will listen with an open heart, but he told me last night that he knew that the Lord was setting him up for this task so today was either confirmation and/or the Lord addressing any doubt that Rick might have... at any rate he is now not afraid to do what the Lord asks, but I ask that if you are willing each hold him up in prayer daily that he get into the Word daily, and help me hold im up in prayer as he learns what it is the Lord wants of him, and as he grows in strength and faith.

We both thank each of you for your kind words, your prayers so far, and we love each of you.

[rhet 2]

At 6 (8 a.m. Wisconsin time) this morning we got the call that Zack was pronounced dead and was immediately moved to surgery where the transplant teams were waiting to harvest what they could for transplants into those that need these organs. Unable to cry we just laid and held onto each other until it was time to get ready for church.. Rick says at least someone might see or have a healthy heart from all this heartache.

Before the sermon the pastor asked Rick and I to come forward with the elders of the church and, per our application, were accepted into the membership - one of the elders, the gentleman that had the stroke awhile back told Rick NOW you have us all as family and can turn to us when you need to.

During the alter call Rick went forward to ask for prayers for his family - some of the men-friends we've made since starting this church went forward as soon as they saw him go, and laid hands on him, then the pastor and the elders came along and all prayed for him.. many of the women were moved to go forward too - my good friend Lonetta took me by the hand and led me to Rick and said lay your hands on him.. which I did and we all prayed. As we praying for him Rick turned to us and we formed a circle and the Lord told me to tell Rick to open his mouth and pray so I reached over to his chin, lifted it until he looked at me and said God says open your mouth and pray. So he did. Then God spoke to Rick through the Holy Spirit and Lonetta laid her hand on Rick's chest and interpreted. God told Rick all that I can do you can do through me... you have the power, you must speak for me, do for me, act for me.

This is going to be a huge step for Rick to take, so step out to make sure his kids and grandkids are told about the Lord, but he told me last night that he knew that the Lord was setting him up for this task so today was either confirmation and/or the Lord addressing any doubt that Rick might have... at any rate he is now not afraid to do what the Lord asks, but I ask that if you are willing each hold him up in prayer daily that he get into the Word daily, and help me hold im up in prayer as he learns what it is the Lord wants of him, and as he grows in strength and faith.

We both thank each of you for your kind words, your prayers so far, and we love each of you.

I am so terribly sorry, dearest one.

And I pray that giving Zack back to the LORD will, indeed, give new hope for many.

And that Rick can find comfort in your arms -- and you comfort in his -- so that the LORD can work through both of you to bring blessings and hope to those of us still stuck trying to muddle through the messiness of this old world.

And, mostly, I pray the LORD come quickly to end things like this once and for all, never to happen again. :((

[bella-day]

I'm so sorry for your lose.

Please accept my deepest condolences.

[itsrea]

I am so terribly sorry, dearest one.

And I pray that giving Zack back to the LORD will, indeed, give new hope for many.

And that Rick can find comfort in your arms -- and you comfort in his -- so that the LORD can work through both of you to bring blessings and hope to those of us still stuck trying to muddle through the messiness of this old world.

And, mostly, I pray the LORD come quickly to end things like this once and for all, never to happen again. :((We sang a song today the chorus of which was along the lines of "you give and you take away" and I broke down as I remembered that our loved ones are not given to us, but are only lent to us. I was able to Thank the Lord for lending me Zack for the time He did... it's only a baby step, but each step moves me farther away from feeling so hopeless.

I thank each of you for your kindnesses and prayers and thoughts - each is a blessing that helps move me further away from that feeling of helpless too.

[USMCmom]

I am so very, very sorry for your loss...my prayers go out to you and yours.
God Bless

[rhet 2]

We sang a song today the chorus of which was along the lines of "you give and you take away" and I broke down as I remembered that our loved ones are not given to us, but are only lent to us. I was able to Thank the Lord for lending me Zack for the time He did... it's only a baby step, but each step moves me farther away from feeling so hopeless.

I thank each of you for your kindnesses and prayers and thoughts - each is a blessing that helps move me further away from that feeling of helpless too.

This is true.

All life comes from the LORD. Each living thing belongs to the LORD.

We only get to be the custodians for a short time.

I pray you find comfort in His Love.

[Seanachie]

My deepest condolences to You and your Family on the tragic loss of Zack. The Good Lord called him home and will be pleased that his organs will be used to save others in this puzzle of life. I hope my prayers accompany Zack on his journey and eases his way to that 'Big Guy's' place. May the Good Lord ease all of your pain and sorrow in saying goodbye and God Bless to Zack for now.

[jwil59]

I am sorry Rea. You know that I will be praying for you guys

[itsrea]

Again I say I don't care if I EVER see another ounce of alcohol... as far as I'm concerned it is out of bounds on my property for the remainder of my life.


Please pray for a healing for a rift in this family - Rick's DIL (Zack's step-mother) has accused his uncles (Rick's other sons) of being instumental in Zack's death - Zack was living in Wisconsin with his mother and step-father, and lived here in WA before that - his uncles live in S Ca and the only time they've been around Zack was summer of 2007 when his father took him down there. Anyway she says she will do everything in her power to make sure none of them ever see Tim's other children.

The heartache from this viterol has spread out like a infected sore with accusations going back and forth in emails. Rick is staying out of it because there are Tim's other children (the two small ones, plus Zack's sister) to consider, but he is deeply hurt by what's happening to his family.

I don't DARE say anything lest his DIL's hurt/grief overflow onto Rick and he be forbidden contact with his grandchildren. He's moving away from me, trying not to, but pulling inside himself more and more and it frightens me because he did that last year when Zack's father died by spending the whole winter in the smoking room - he even took some of his meals out there. Please pray the Lord will show him a NEW way of dealing with his loss and his heartache.

Rick doesn't feel he can afford to go to the memorial for Zack - I've talked till I'm blue in the face, begged him to at least pray the Lord would open a way and all he did was get angrier - so I'd ask that you pray about this too - especially that his not going does not cause a even bigger rift in this family.

[USMCmom]

Again I say I don't care if I EVER see another ounce of alcohol... as far as I'm concerned it is out of bounds on my property for the remainder of my life.


Please pray for a healing for a rift in this family - Rick's DIL (Zack's step-mother) has accused his uncles (Rick's other sons) of being instumental in Zack's death - Zack was living in Wisconsin with his mother and step-father, and lived here in WA before that - his uncles live in S Ca and the only time they've been around Zack was summer of 2007 when his father took him down there. Anyway she says she will do everything in her power to make sure none of them ever see Tim's other children.

The heartache from this viterol has spread out like a infected sore with accusations going back and forth in emails. Rick is staying out of it because there are Tim's other children (the two small ones, plus Zack's sister) to consider, but he is deeply hurt by what's happening to his family.

I don't DARE say anything lest his DIL's hurt/grief overflow onto Rick and he be forbidden contact with his grandchildren. He's moving away from me, trying not to, but pulling inside himself more and more and it frightens me because he did that last year when Zack's father died by spending the whole winter in the smoking room - he even took some of his meals out there. Please pray the Lord will show him a NEW way of dealing with his loss and his heartache.

Rick doesn't feel he can afford to go to the memorial for Zack - I've talked till I'm blue in the face, begged him to at least pray the Lord would open a way and all he did was get angrier - so I'd ask that you pray about this too - especially that his not going does not cause a even bigger rift in this family.

I can't imagine the sorrow and grief that you, Rick and your family must be feeling. Please know that I will be praying for Rick...that he will be able to turn to you for comfort, that the Lord will help to provide healing for his broken heart. I will pray with all my heart that his family will try to understand and if there is anyway at all... that he will be able to attend the memorial.

May the Lord help to keep you strong and give you comfort during this devastating time.

Your in my prayers...:pray:
God Bless...

[jwil59]

Again I say I don't care if I EVER see another ounce of alcohol... as far as I'm concerned it is out of bounds on my property for the remainder of my life.


Please pray for a healing for a rift in this family - Rick's DIL (Zack's step-mother) has accused his uncles (Rick's other sons) of being instumental in Zack's death - Zack was living in Wisconsin with his mother and step-father, and lived here in WA before that - his uncles live in S Ca and the only time they've been around Zack was summer of 2007 when his father took him down there. Anyway she says she will do everything in her power to make sure none of them ever see Tim's other children.

The heartache from this viterol has spread out like a infected sore with accusations going back and forth in emails. Rick is staying out of it because there are Tim's other children (the two small ones, plus Zack's sister) to consider, but he is deeply hurt by what's happening to his family.

I don't DARE say anything lest his DIL's hurt/grief overflow onto Rick and he be forbidden contact with his grandchildren. He's moving away from me, trying not to, but pulling inside himself more and more and it frightens me because he did that last year when Zack's father died by spending the whole winter in the smoking room - he even took some of his meals out there. Please pray the Lord will show him a NEW way of dealing with his loss and his heartache.

Rick doesn't feel he can afford to go to the memorial for Zack - I've talked till I'm blue in the face, begged him to at least pray the Lord would open a way and all he did was get angrier - so I'd ask that you pray about this too - especially that his not going does not cause a even bigger rift in this family.

I am praying for Rick and his family Rea. He has to hang tough and know that God is in control and will not forsake him

[rhet 2]

Again I say I don't care if I EVER see another ounce of alcohol... as far as I'm concerned it is out of bounds on my property for the remainder of my life.


Please pray for a healing for a rift in this family - Rick's DIL (Zack's step-mother) has accused his uncles (Rick's other sons) of being instumental in Zack's death - Zack was living in Wisconsin with his mother and step-father, and lived here in WA before that - his uncles live in S Ca and the only time they've been around Zack was summer of 2007 when his father took him down there. Anyway she says she will do everything in her power to make sure none of them ever see Tim's other children.

The heartache from this viterol has spread out like a infected sore with accusations going back and forth in emails. Rick is staying out of it because there are Tim's other children (the two small ones, plus Zack's sister) to consider, but he is deeply hurt by what's happening to his family.

I don't DARE say anything lest his DIL's hurt/grief overflow onto Rick and he be forbidden contact with his grandchildren. He's moving away from me, trying not to, but pulling inside himself more and more and it frightens me because he did that last year when Zack's father died by spending the whole winter in the smoking room - he even took some of his meals out there. Please pray the Lord will show him a NEW way of dealing with his loss and his heartache.

Rick doesn't feel he can afford to go to the memorial for Zack - I've talked till I'm blue in the face, begged him to at least pray the Lord would open a way and all he did was get angrier - so I'd ask that you pray about this too - especially that his not going does not cause a even bigger rift in this family.


Some, especially men, are so afraid of losing control over their emotions -- especially when part of what they feel is rage -- that they pull inside really really tight until they feel -- not think -- feel they've got the emotions under enough control not to blast those they really love in the process of letting their emotions loose.

I suspect your Rick is like that -- afraid to hurt you if he lets his emotions loose at the moment, so he clamps down really really hard on his emotions and shuts you out of his heart and mind, even out of his physical presence, just because he doesn't trust himself right now not to hurt you.

I pray the LORD soothe his anger and cause the turmoil inside his soul to seep out in tiny bits until he is comfortable enough to let you back inside his heart and mind. I pray he comes to accept that this is the LORD's will -- and that the LORD has a very good reason for allowing this to happen, even if we cannot comprehend it.

I pray you have great wisdom in helping him do that -- let the hurt settle down just a bit and love him from a distance, even if he can't show his love -- and his need -- for you at the moment.

Anger is an automatic response to hurt like this -- unbearable hurt -- and when we're hurt this badly, we want to lash out and hurt others -- anyone -- usually the people we are closest to -- just to let the rage out, we focus on somebody else -- anybody else -- and explode at them instead of exploding at ourselves and a situation we have no control over.

DIL did, I think, just that -- dump all the fury and the anger and the outrage over such hell-born tragedy on the first people she could think of, Rick's other sons. When it's really ourselves we want to explode at, explode because somehow we didn't stop the tragedy from happening, like it's our fault and there should have been something we could have and didn't do. Easier to blame his uncles than blame herself -- and very difficult not to blame God, too.

Not that there ever is something we could have done. Not that it is our fault -- which we do know deep down inside -- but that doesn't make the grief and anger at our own helplessness go away, either.

And that only makes the hurt still worse -- worse for you, for Rick, for the uncles -- and worse for her.

The toughest thing of all is accepting such a nightmare without blaming anyone, ourselves, God, each other -- or even the booze.

Though that is what the entire family must come to understand: there is no blame, just grief from living in a world so fouled up and filthy that something like this could occur at all.

I'll pray that the LORD soften her heart and drain all that rage out, so she can grieve and be comforted instead.

And I'll pray that Rick is able to trust his emotions enough to soon let you back in.

Just be patient, sweetness. Some people feel things like this harder and bury them deeper than others, so it takes them longer to break down and turn to accept the hugs with tears of heartbreak flowing in the open.

Your Rick is worth the ordeal, I think. And you are strong enough in the faith to give him the space he needs to get his heartbreak back under control so he can accept your hugs and can weep openly without shame or fear of the other emotions he's feeling, because he's worked through the other emotions before the Throne of Grace and the LORD has drained the anger and the guilt and the urge to lash out from his heart.

[bella-day]

Again I say I don't care if I EVER see another ounce of alcohol... as far as I'm concerned it is out of bounds on my property for the remainder of my life.


Please pray for a healing for a rift in this family - Rick's DIL (Zack's step-mother) has accused his uncles (Rick's other sons) of being instumental in Zack's death - Zack was living in Wisconsin with his mother and step-father, and lived here in WA before that - his uncles live in S Ca and the only time they've been around Zack was summer of 2007 when his father took him down there. Anyway she says she will do everything in her power to make sure none of them ever see Tim's other children.

The heartache from this viterol has spread out like a infected sore with accusations going back and forth in emails. Rick is staying out of it because there are Tim's other children (the two small ones, plus Zack's sister) to consider, but he is deeply hurt by what's happening to his family.

I don't DARE say anything lest his DIL's hurt/grief overflow onto Rick and he be forbidden contact with his grandchildren. He's moving away from me, trying not to, but pulling inside himself more and more and it frightens me because he did that last year when Zack's father died by spending the whole winter in the smoking room - he even took some of his meals out there. Please pray the Lord will show him a NEW way of dealing with his loss and his heartache.

Rick doesn't feel he can afford to go to the memorial for Zack - I've talked till I'm blue in the face, begged him to at least pray the Lord would open a way and all he did was get angrier - so I'd ask that you pray about this too - especially that his not going does not cause a even bigger rift in this family.


I pray that God touches Zack's Mom's heart. The pain and anguish she must be enduring has to be all encompassing right now. She needs to understand that pushing family away will not help...it will only increase her suffering.

You and Rick are in my prayers. He too is suffering greatly. The love you two share has carried you both through some pretty devasting situations in the past. I have faith that it will carry you through this as well.

Prayers, good thoughts, and lots of hugs to you Rea.

[jwil59]

I am praying for Rea and Rick today

[itsrea]

Today at Women's Ministries our teacher had me read Joshua 4 (the whole chapter). If you'd read it I won't have to put it here..

She then asked us if we were one of those twelve tribesmen how would WE go about picking up our stone?

I said I run in, grab a stone and get the heck out of there - everyone laughed and I said think about it people - the Jordan is sitting just up the riverbed, waiting to flood back into it's normal path - why would ANYONE linger there? Pick up your rock and get the heck out of there.

One of the other ladies said not me, I'd have to have the perfect stone..

And all of a sudden I got it so I said I'm one of those people who sees something and thinks "Look how God put that together", and you have to stop and think about this chapter and say "look how God put this together.. he knew those twelve men, he knew how each of them would react, what size and kind of a stone they would pick - that some of them were like me and would rush in and pick small ones, that some were like Wanda and would have to have the perfect stone, and that some would pick ones too large and would have to depend on God to help them carry it".... And the teacher said exactly - when you build something you start with larger stones and get smaller and smaller till the smallest one is on top - that's how you build something that will last.

And that brought me back to Zack and Rick and his sons... and my knowing that each of them will pick up the burden they need to, according to their own personality, and that each needs to be encouraged to let God carry this burden...

So I asked for prayer for Rick, who as a new Christian prayed last night, three days after Zack's death and asked God to remember that Zack was just a child and that He lift him into heaven. And one of the ladies told me that God had NOT given up on Zack - that even if Zack was not aware of us once he was pronounced brain dead, he WAS aware of God and that God, who loved Zack, would be in there, loving Zack and offering him chances.. and that she thinks that once we are in heaven we are going to see a LOT of people there we never expected to see there.. and that helped me - gave me something to offer Rick as hope for his grandson, and to help ease any quilt he is feeling for not sharing Jesus with Zack before his death.


Then, in our fretting about whether we will see Zack in heaven or not, whether he was saved or not, God has given me a vision - I saw a lovely field covered in wildflowers and God said to me "Just as the flowers blanket that field so I blanket Zack with my love."

:)

God, knowing me, knows how large a rock I'd pick up, whether I should have picked it up or not being of little consequence, is here helping me carry it.

[rhet 2]

Today at Women's Ministries our teacher had me read Joshua 4 (the whole chapter). If you'd read it I won't have to put it here..

She then asked us if we were one of those twelve tribesmen how would WE go about picking up our stone?

I said I run in, grab a stone and get the heck out of there - everyone laughed and I said think about it people - the Jordan is sitting just up the riverbed, waiting to flood back into it's normal path - why would ANYONE linger there? Pick up your rock and get the heck out of there.

One of the other ladies said not me, I'd have to have the perfect stone..

And all of a sudden I got it so I said I'm one of those people who sees something and thinks "Look how God put that together", and you have to stop and think about this chapter and say "look how God put this together.. he knew those twelve men, he knew how each of them would react, what size and kind of a stone they would pick - that some of them were like me and would rush in and pick small ones, that some were like Wanda and would have to have the perfect stone, and that some would pick ones too large and would have to depend on God to help them carry it".... And the teacher said exactly - when you build something you start with larger stones and get smaller and smaller till the smallest one is on top - that's how you build something that will last.

And that brought me back to Zack and Rick and his sons... and my knowing that each of them will pick up the burden they need to, according to their own personality, and that each needs to be encouraged to let God carry this burden...

So I asked for prayer for Rick, who as a new Christian prayed last night, three days after Zack's death and asked God to remember that Zack was just a child and that He lift him into heaven. And one of the ladies told me that God had NOT given up on Zack - that even if Zack was not aware of us once he was pronounced brain dead, he WAS aware of God and that God, who loved Zack, would be in there, loving Zack and offering him chances.. and that she thinks that once we are in heaven we are going to see a LOT of people there we never expected to see there.. and that helped me - gave me something to offer Rick as hope for his grandson, and to help ease any quilt he is feeling for not sharing Jesus with Zack before his death.


Then, in our fretting about whether we will see Zack in heaven or not, whether he was saved or not, God has given me a vision - I saw a lovely field covered in wildflowers and God said to me "Just as the flowers blanket that field so I blanket Zack with my love."

:)

God, knowing me, knows how large a rock I'd pick up, whether I should have picked it up or not being of little consequence, is here helping me carry it.

Good lesson.

Why does He let bad things happen to good people?

"so that all the peoples of the earth may know that the hand of the LORD is mighty, so that you may fear the LORD your God forever" -- vs. 24

I pray that your Zack is with my Jenny -- my little sister who was murdered during a pot party -- safely on the other side of Jordan, forever safe from the turmoils and dangers of the Wilderness they have left behind never to hurt them again. For they have surely entered into the Promised Land, never to wander again.

And that the rocks you and Rick carry out of the Jordan, big and little, will be a testimonial forever of the power and the glory and the merciful provision of our every good from the LORD of Lords and KING of Kings.

From such trials as these, great monuments to the Grace of God are built, rock by rock, one heavy burden at a time.

[JenyEliza]

Prayers for all I love here today--and for those they love. I am sorry I am not around much right now. I am battling bronchitis/suspected pneumonia and am quite sick. Have a doctor's appointment at 4:30 pm. Will update later.

And...now, Rhet...I know why you were so drawn to me from the first. God has given you another Jeny to love here on earth. :) :cry:

You strong, smart, beautiful women mean the world to me....

:hug: :hug: :hug:
God bless you all...especially rea, rick, rhet and repchick

[rhet 2]

Prayers for all I love here today--and for those they love. I am sorry I am not around much right now. I am battling bronchitis/suspected pneumonia and am quite sick. Have a doctor's appointment at 4:30 pm. Will update later.

And...now, Rhet...I know why you were so drawn to me from the first. God has given you another Jeny to love here on earth. :) :cry:

You strong, smart, beautiful women mean the world to me....

:hug: :hug: :hug:
God bless you all...especially rea, rick, rhet and repchick

And you to us.

We are all of us, including you, a mini-community serving each others' needs.

I continue to pray for your own health and financial situation. I wish there were more I could do, for I hate to see you suffering like this.

And pray for Repchick's oncology visit today.

Just as I know Rea and Rick are praying for us as much as we pray for them.

There's just too damned much suffering in the world -- and I mean the curse word LITERALLY -- because I wish the Good LORD WOULD damn it literally, removing all this hurt and pain PERMANENTLY so we could all of us chase soccer balls and marvel at butterflies and sunsets and sunrises and rejoice in gentle breezes whiffling across our faces instead.

I PRAY with all my heart that He "shorten the days" and come quickly-quickly-quickly.

[JenyEliza]

Leaving now for doctors visit. Feeling some improved over when I made my post above, but not nearly good enough to drive. So a neighbor lady is driving me over to docs.

Spoke with repchick earlier...she is hovering over my like a Mama Lion, bossing me and such. She was very upbeat before her visit and much more concerned about me than herself. What a love she is! :D

To all I offer prayers of love, comfort, healing and comfort on this day.

:hug: :hug: :hug: :hug:

Jeny

[USMCmom]

Leaving now for doctors visit. Feeling some improved over when I made my post above, but not nearly good enough to drive. So a neighbor lady is driving me over to docs.

Spoke with repchick earlier...she is hovering over my like a Mama Lion, bossing me and such. She was very upbeat before her visit and much more concerned about me than herself. What a love she is! :D

To all I offer prayers of love, comfort, healing and comfort on this day.

:hug: :hug: :hug: :hug:

Jeny


Am praying that the Dr visit will go well and you will be on the road to recovery soon....
Take Care & God Bless

[jwil59]

Today at Women's Ministries our teacher had me read Joshua 4 (the whole chapter). If you'd read it I won't have to put it here..

She then asked us if we were one of those twelve tribesmen how would WE go about picking up our stone?

I said I run in, grab a stone and get the heck out of there - everyone laughed and I said think about it people - the Jordan is sitting just up the riverbed, waiting to flood back into it's normal path - why would ANYONE linger there? Pick up your rock and get the heck out of there.

One of the other ladies said not me, I'd have to have the perfect stone..

And all of a sudden I got it so I said I'm one of those people who sees something and thinks "Look how God put that together", and you have to stop and think about this chapter and say "look how God put this together.. he knew those twelve men, he knew how each of them would react, what size and kind of a stone they would pick - that some of them were like me and would rush in and pick small ones, that some were like Wanda and would have to have the perfect stone, and that some would pick ones too large and would have to depend on God to help them carry it".... And the teacher said exactly - when you build something you start with larger stones and get smaller and smaller till the smallest one is on top - that's how you build something that will last.

And that brought me back to Zack and Rick and his sons... and my knowing that each of them will pick up the burden they need to, according to their own personality, and that each needs to be encouraged to let God carry this burden...

So I asked for prayer for Rick, who as a new Christian prayed last night, three days after Zack's death and asked God to remember that Zack was just a child and that He lift him into heaven. And one of the ladies told me that God had NOT given up on Zack - that even if Zack was not aware of us once he was pronounced brain dead, he WAS aware of God and that God, who loved Zack, would be in there, loving Zack and offering him chances.. and that she thinks that once we are in heaven we are going to see a LOT of people there we never expected to see there.. and that helped me - gave me something to offer Rick as hope for his grandson, and to help ease any quilt he is feeling for not sharing Jesus with Zack before his death.


Then, in our fretting about whether we will see Zack in heaven or not, whether he was saved or not, God has given me a vision - I saw a lovely field covered in wildflowers and God said to me "Just as the flowers blanket that field so I blanket Zack with my love."

:)

God, knowing me, knows how large a rock I'd pick up, whether I should have picked it up or not being of little consequence, is here helping me carry it.

Wow, thanks for posting this. It is just so dynamic when God people gather to study His Word together.

Something has been on my mind the past day or so about this. I am really praying hard that this will not in any way stunt Rick's spiritual growth. I have seen that happen with things like the death of a loved one, most often when that loved one is a young person. I don't know why that's been on my heart, I am just being honest about it.

[jwil59]

Leaving now for doctors visit. Feeling some improved over when I made my post above, but not nearly good enough to drive. So a neighbor lady is driving me over to docs.

Spoke with repchick earlier...she is hovering over my like a Mama Lion, bossing me and such. She was very upbeat before her visit and much more concerned about me than herself. What a love she is! :D

To all I offer prayers of love, comfort, healing and comfort on this day.

:hug: :hug: :hug: :hug:

Jeny


I pray you feel better jeny. What did the doc say?

[itsrea]

And you to us.

We are all of us, including you, a mini-community serving each others' needs.

I continue to pray for your own health and financial situation. I wish there were more I could do, for I hate to see you suffering like this.

And pray for Repchick's oncology visit today.

Just as I know Rea and Rick are praying for us as much as we pray for them.

There's just too damned much suffering in the world -- and I mean the curse word LITERALLY -- because I wish the Good LORD WOULD damn it literally, removing all this hurt and pain PERMANENTLY so we could all of us chase soccer balls and marvel at butterflies and sunsets and sunrises and rejoice in gentle breezes whiffling across our faces instead.

I PRAY with all my heart that He "shorten the days" and come quickly-quickly-quickly.Prophecy has to be fulfilled first my friend.. and the sooner we leave the Jews alone so they can rebuild the temple, the sooner that will be - I remember being apalled (sp?), as if anyone could want the world to end, but I am growing into understanding of my saintly little Aunt's saying she was more then ready to meet the Lord.

[itsrea]

Prayers for all I love here today--and for those they love. I am sorry I am not around much right now. I am battling bronchitis/suspected pneumonia and am quite sick. Have a doctor's appointment at 4:30 pm. Will update later.

And...now, Rhet...I know why you were so drawn to me from the first. God has given you another Jeny to love here on earth. :) :cry:

You strong, smart, beautiful women mean the world to me....

:hug: :hug: :hug:
God bless you all...especially rea, rick, rhet and repchick(((Jeny))) please let me know what the dr said and how you are doing - and Rhet is right, you are indeed in my prayers.

[itsrea]

Good lesson.

Why does He let bad things happen to good people?

"so that all the peoples of the earth may know that the hand of the LORD is mighty, so that you may fear the LORD your God forever" -- vs. 24

I pray that your Zack is with my Jenny -- my little sister who was murdered during a pot party -- safely on the other side of Jordan, forever safe from the turmoils and dangers of the Wilderness they have left behind never to hurt them again. For they have surely entered into the Promised Land, never to wander again.

And that the rocks you and Rick carry out of the Jordan, big and little, will be a testimonial forever of the power and the glory and the merciful provision of our every good from the LORD of Lords and KING of Kings.

From such trials as these, great monuments to the Grace of God are built, rock by rock, one heavy burden at a time.This is so beautifully written that I had to read it to Rick - thank you so much for the mental pictures you create in me my friend, they overcome the handicap of my short-term memory problems and help me remember for vividly then I could otherwise.

[itsrea]

Wow, thanks for posting this. It is just so dynamic when God people gather to study His Word together.

Something has been on my mind the past day or so about this. I am really praying hard that this will not in any way stunt Rick's spiritual growth. I have seen that happen with things like the death of a loved one, most often when that loved one is a young person. I don't know why that's been on my heart, I am just being honest about it.I ask that you keep praying my friend.. something is jabbing at my gut too, as if to say 'something is wrong' somewhere and not knowing who or what I've been saying the pleasepleaseplease prayer...

[repchick]

You got it rea.:hug::pray:

[rhet 2]

I ask that you keep praying my friend.. something is jabbing at my gut too, as if to say 'something is wrong' somewhere and not knowing who or what I've been saying the pleasepleaseplease prayer...


You, too?

It's horrid.

[itsrea]

You, too?

It's horrid.At first I thought this can't be from God because of the awful feelings of fear that came with it - but over the years I've learned that it's the Holy Spirit prompting me to pray.... If I remember to DO that I don't do too badly - if I don't I can literally make myself sick.

The selfish part is that being human (and nosy) I just wish that the Holy Spirit would also give me some insight into who, why, where and how it's all going to come out.

As if me knowing would help any :rolleyes:

The feeling is still here, still strong, it woke me several times during the night... it's like God pleeeeeeeaaaaaaaaaaassssssssssse don't take anyone else from us, please.

[rhet 2]

At first I thought this can't be from God because of the awful feelings of fear that came with it - but over the years I've learned that it's the Holy Spirit prompting me to pray.... If I remember to DO that I don't do too badly - if I don't I can literally make myself sick.

The selfish part is that being human (and nosy) I just wish that the Holy Spirit would also give me some insight into who, why, where and how it's all going to come out.

As if me knowing would help any :rolleyes:

The feeling is still here, still strong, it woke me several times during the night... it's like God pleeeeeeeaaaaaaaaaaassssssssssse don't take anyone else from us, please.

I'm not sleeping well myself.

I pray myself into a doze and wake with prayers already cycling through my brain.

And hearing about toddlers beaten to death in insane rage, 10 year olds giving birth to babies born through a mother's boyfriend's sexual predation, knowing the misery of orphans in Nigeria, the horror of the sex slave trade in India and in Sudan, the spread of rape and torture and abuse throughout the world -- including on US soil -- my heart ****ters with grief and horror over the hell humankind is causing the most helpless and innocent of us.

Then there's the spread of drug addiction -- and booze IS A DRUG -- and sexual perversion IS JUST AS ADDICTIVE and just as corruptive, from pornography to marry and divorce two weeks later -- it's like watching animals tear and shred and storm and rage, snarl and eat each other alive.

How can anyone with half an ounce of compassion and love for others endure knowing what's going on in our schools, in our cities, and NOT wake crying to pray still harder?

And then the nightmare touches someone you know and cherish, like your loss of Zack.

So, the tears fall harder and the prayers scream out still louder, begging the LORD to stop the horrors, stop the brutality, stop the cruel indifference to human life, stop the degradation and destruction of souls, stop the animal addictions and return some measure of sanity, some hope of humanity once again at least trying to be more than animals.

I'm sorry.

I shouldn't dump my griefs on you, especially now.

But knowing the hell that has begun to rage across the earth, including in our own homes and our own neighborhoods, just since the late 1960s, when Jenny was murdered during the opening phases of this total social disintegration -- I honestly want to just stop reading, stop thinking, stop being -- just give up and sit in a graveyard rocking while the tears fall.

HOW CAN HUMAN BEINGS BECOME SO CRUEL AND BRUTAL, so degraded with all concept of the nobility of the human soul lost, all concept of self-respect and dignity and honor lost?

[itsrea]

I'm not sleeping well myself.

I pray myself into a doze and wake with prayers already cycling through my brain.

And hearing about toddlers beaten to death in insane rage, 10 year olds giving birth to babies born through a mother's boyfriend's sexual predation, knowing the misery of orphans in Nigeria, the horror of the sex slave trade in India and in Sudan, the spread of rape and torture and abuse throughout the world -- including on US soil -- my heart ****ters with grief and horror over the hell humankind is causing the most helpless and innocent of us.

Then there's the spread of drug addiction -- and booze IS A DRUG -- and sexual perversion IS JUST AS ADDICTIVE and just as corruptive, from pornography to marry and divorce two weeks later -- it's like watching animals tear and shred and storm and rage, snarl and eat each other alive.

How can anyone with half an ounce of compassion and love for others endure knowing what's going on in our schools, in our cities, and NOT wake crying to pray still harder?

And then the nightmare touches someone you know and cherish, like your loss of Zack.

So, the tears fall harder and the prayers scream out still louder, begging the LORD to stop the horrors, stop the brutality, stop the cruel indifference to human life, stop the degradation and destruction of souls, stop the animal addictions and return some measure of sanity, some hope of humanity once again at least trying to be more than animals.

I'm sorry.

I shouldn't dump my griefs on you, especially now.

But knowing the hell that has begun to rage across the earth, including in our own homes and our own neighborhoods, just since the late 1960s, when Jenny was murdered during the opening phases of this total social disintegration -- I honestly want to just stop reading, stop thinking, stop being -- just give up and sit in a graveyard rocking while the tears fall.

HOW CAN HUMAN BEINGS BECOME SO CRUEL AND BRUTAL, so degraded with all concept of the nobility of the human soul lost, all concept of self-respect and dignity and honor lost?I think there is a fine balance between feeling what the Lord wants us to so that we are willing to give in and give up and give, period, and letting it overwhelm us, and with the sorrow so recent in our lives we are tending towards being overwhelmed.. plus it's less painful (believe it) to look outward at other's pain then it is to live with our own..

One of my favorite stories is that after my husband died my younger sister worked her butt off trying to run my life.. actually she worked her butt off trying to run my life AND my DIL's - and we just steadfastly refused to let her. To this day I say had we let her run our lives HER marriage would still be in tact - because we wouldn't, and because there was no one else around to run, she had to look inside herself and her home.. her marriage crumbled like crumb cake.

In 1982 my Sunday School teacher wrote a book about losing two of her children to Cystic Fibrosis.. it's a wonderful, heartbreaking testimony to how the Lord lifts us through these tough times Rhet.. all He wants of us is to spread his word so that others may experience the same help. If you want I'll PM you the title of the book.. I read it in a day.

Every time I think I'm doing soooo well as a Christian along comes someone who is REALLY doing for the Lord and I have to step it up...

gheeze

[itsrea]

Thought I'd update you - Rick got his sons to promise to tone down their response to the accusation that they had any influence over Zack's drinking and/or death - and I think they did - but we got a copy of the emails and some of the people involved seem to be more intent on one-upmanship then on grieving - I am semi-patient/understanding about it because I know grief can cause some pretty strange reactions in some people and at the same time I'm praying that it all just stop because once something is said a person can never un-hear it and Rick's family doesn't need anymore rifts.

Yesterday Rick sent flowers for Zack's memorial, and I sent a bouquet for his mother and step-father, and another to his sister... we are hoping it encourages them to know that we love them and are here if they need us.

I seem to be having a bout with the flu - I had awful chills this afternoon and can hardly stay awake this evening, but am fighting napping because night-time sleep is so disturbed for both Rick and I.

On the 'up' side Rick insisted on Christmas shopping yesterday so we drove the over two hours to the closest mall and had a really good time - I found theeee cutest gift for baby Aubrey - it's made by leapfrog and is called Fridge Phonics.. if any of you have two year olds I suggest it - it is soo darling, so cute, and so educational - and less then $20 - I got Aubrey the ABC's but there is one for making words too - all of the letters are magnets that stick to the fridge, as is the base.. the baby picks a letter (or three) and puts them into the base and a song starts about that letter - my Aubrey snaps her fingers and bounces when she hears music so I think she is going to LOVE this gift

:dance::dance:

[rhet 2]

Thought I'd update you - Rick got his sons to promise to tone down their response to the accusation that they had any influence over Zack's drinking and/or death - and I think they did - but we got a copy of the emails and some of the people involved seem to be more intent on one-upmanship then on grieving - I am semi-patient/understanding about it because I know grief can cause some pretty strange reactions in some people and at the same time I'm praying that it all just stop because once something is said a person can never un-hear it and Rick's family doesn't need anymore rifts.

Yesterday Rick sent flowers for Zack's memorial, and I sent a bouquet for his mother and step-father, and another to his sister... we are hoping it encourages them to know that we love them and are here if they need us.

I seem to be having a bout with the flu - I had awful chills this afternoon and can hardly stay awake this evening, but am fighting napping because night-time sleep is so disturbed for both Rick and I.

On the 'up' side Rick insisted on Christmas shopping yesterday so we drove the over two hours to the closest mall and had a really good time - I found theeee cutest gift for baby Aubrey - it's made by leapfrog and is called Fridge Phonics.. if any of you have two year olds I suggest it - it is soo darling, so cute, and so educational - and less then $20 - I got Aubrey the ABC's but there is one for making words too - all of the letters are magnets that stick to the fridge, as is the base.. the baby picks a letter (or three) and puts them into the base and a song starts about that letter - my Aubrey snaps her fingers and bounces when she hears music so I think she is going to LOVE this gift

:dance::dance:

I pray the LORD soften their hearts. There's grief enough without adding anger to it.

:hug:

[itsrea]

Osborne, Zachary J.

Zachary Joseph Osborne 16, Appleton, passed away unexpectedly Sunday, November 30, 2008 at Appleton Medical Center. He was born February 12, 1992 to Timothy Osborne and Angela Osborne in Portsmouth, Virginia. He will be greatly missed by his mother and step-father, Angela (Wayde) James; sister, Corrine Osborne, brothers: Nicholas and Jacob Osborne.
He was preceded in death by his father, Timothy Osborne and grandmother Coleen Osborne.

Memorial services will be held at 2:30 pm Sunday December 7, 2008 at the Valley Funeral Home with Rev. Martin Ruge officiating. Friends may visit the family from 1:00 2:30 pm also at the funeral home.

Picture of ZACH (http://www.valleyfh.com/Obits.cfm?Details=607)

http://www.valleyfh.com/Obits.cfm?Details=607 (http://www.valleyfh.com/Obits.cfm?Details=607)


Before the family knew Zack's step-mother blamed (in part) Rick's other sons for Zack's death one of Rick's other son's bought her a ticket so she could attend the Memorial - she's been there for about three days now - Rick's calls were being returned before she got there, now they are not being returned. He's left her two messages on her cell, several messages on Zack's mom's phone, nobody is returning Rick's calls. He's literally worried sick that she has spread her anger to the other's in the family and that now, somehow, he too is being blamed.

We've prayed and are trying to leave it there, but many of these people are not saved so this is the perfect time for satan to widen the gap that all these miles caused... please pray for a peaceful resolution to these problems - Rick loves every member of his family, and is so afraid of losing Corry now too.

[rhet 2]

Before the family knew Zack's step-mother blamed (in part) Rick's other sons for Zack's death one of Rick's other son's bought her a ticket so she could attend the Memorial - she's been there for about three days now - Rick's calls were being returned before she got there, now they are not being returned. He's left her two messages on her cell, several messages on Zack's mom's phone, nobody is returning Rick's calls. He's literally worried sick that she has spread her anger to the other's in the family and that now, somehow, he too is being blamed.

We've prayed and are trying to leave it there, but many of these people are not saved so this is the perfect time for satan to widen the gap that all these miles caused... please pray for a peaceful resolution to these problems - Rick loves every member of his family, and is so afraid of losing Corry now too.

Sometimes, the sewer has to overflow before it can be drained.

I hope and pray this is all that's happening -- the LORD using Zack's tragedy to reach deep down inside his family to start cleaning out the anger and the hate to make room for a new way of life, this time life based on the Way, the Truth, and the Life and not the will of corruptible human beings.

For that is the only way peace can be achieved -- permanent, stable, steady Peace based on the ONE Who is the ultimate PeaceMaker.

May He hover over every last one of you, including Rick, but most especially his children and their children to pull them ALL out of the darkness and into the Light forever and a day.

Hang tough in faith, dear sister. The LORD knows what's He's about and what great good He's going to use this tragedy to achieve. Romans 8:28 was never more applicable than it is right now in your own dear sweet life.

:hug:

[USMCmom]

I ask that you keep praying my friend.. something is jabbing at my gut too, as if to say 'something is wrong' somewhere and not knowing who or what I've been saying the pleasepleaseplease prayer...

Will keep ya in my prayers...I think that many of us have felt this:frown:
Stay strong...

[JenyEliza]

rea....teens are going to drink. Whether or not we want them to, they are going to experiment. Some are able to handle the experimentation and move on. Some experiment and find themselves in way over their heads and don't know how to reach out for help. Sometimes there is no help coming and these teens return to our Lord--as in Zach's case.

Whatever the case, it is NOBODY's fault. It happens. It is tragic and painful beyond mere words. The loss of these precious teens tear families apart at a time when they should most come together for love and support and comfort.

At this point we must pray and trust in the Lord that He will love and care for Zach and all of his extended family and bring healing to you all.

May Zach's death not be in vain. He would not want to see everyone at each other's throats over his accidental death.

:pray: :pray: :pray:

[jwil59]

I ask that you keep praying my friend.. something is jabbing at my gut too, as if to say 'something is wrong' somewhere and not knowing who or what I've been saying the pleasepleaseplease prayer...

You can count on that. We've come to far to stop now

[jwil59]

Before the family knew Zack's step-mother blamed (in part) Rick's other sons for Zack's death one of Rick's other son's bought her a ticket so she could attend the Memorial - she's been there for about three days now - Rick's calls were being returned before she got there, now they are not being returned. He's left her two messages on her cell, several messages on Zack's mom's phone, nobody is returning Rick's calls. He's literally worried sick that she has spread her anger to the other's in the family and that now, somehow, he too is being blamed.

We've prayed and are trying to leave it there, but many of these people are not saved so this is the perfect time for satan to widen the gap that all these miles caused... please pray for a peaceful resolution to these problems - Rick loves every member of his family, and is so afraid of losing Corry now too.

He can't help what they do Rea or how they react. These people are all greiving, that is something that non-belivers do totally different than we do.

Hang tough child of God

[JenyEliza]

Praying for you and Rick tonight, hun. Love you bunches. :hug: :hug: :hug:

[rhet 2]

He can't help what they do Rea or how they react. These people are all greiving, that is something that non-belivers do totally different than we do.

Hang tough child of God

This is true.

But, together, with the LORD's help, we can pull each other through -- and pull others out of the holes they fall into with us.

We just have to hold on and hang tight and pray and work as hard as we can until He delivers us all. Including non-believers.

For is this not the job our Christ has given us? to pull together to hold each other tight and together reach out to the lost and pull them out of darkness and into the same Light we were given, not by our own works, but by the Grace of God Himself.

I wish we had a smilie with people holding hands to keep each other standing tall.

[crystalclear]

What a tragedy!! I am so sorry to read about your loss.

[itsrea]

Rick broke down while talking to one of his sons today and of course that made me cry too - He told his son that he is just going to give up, this all this accusing and fighting is too much - I left the room and went into our bedroom to cry and when Rick found me he insisted that I tell him why - so I gently pointed to his chest and told him there is a new Rick in there, a Rick washed in the blood of Christ and that new Rick can't do things the way the old Rick did - there can be no pulling back, giving up, withdrawing - God told you that two Sunday's ago when he told you that you are the head of this family and that you had to be His voice, His action and so you can't do things the way the old Rick did - there is too much at stake, our CHILDREN are at stake and we simply cannot let them fall to the wayside because we are too hurt to stand in the face of more hurt - it's not US standing there anyway - it's GOD - HE hurts too, but HE isn't giving up on our kids and neither can you.

Gosh folks, I am sooo glad the Lord did not require that I grow as fast as Rick is having to, and am so blessed to be able to witness and share in this growth - it's taking a LOT of work on his part but he IS so eager to do what God wants...

Anyway, while wrapping his presents for his grandkids and packaging them up for shipping today I had the thought that it might not be appropriate for us to send Corry her presents so I just got on the phone and called Rick's ex-DIL (Zack's mom) and left a message asking what she thought - I told her we had no desire to do aNYTHING that could cause any of them any more pain at such a stressful time, but would she please call us back and let us know whether to send the package now or wait? Then we drove into town to mail the other packages. Angela called us back while we were gone - her voice is so low I could hardly hear it, but she asked us to call back and we did - the poor woman can hardly get out a whole sentence without crying or choking up - I'm thinking I wouldn't be in any better shape were it my 16 yr old that had just passed away so we are very blessed and relieved that she was ABLE to return the call.

She wants us to send Corry's package, and thanked me for the flowers I sent her and Corry (I sent them separate bouquets Friday). While talking to her Rick expressed his concern about Corry and Angela promised that she would have her call soon. Zack's step-mom is still there and will fly home tomorrow, so we hopefully will hear from her soon too -

at any rate all the people involved still need prayers so I ask that if you are led to, please remember them in yours.

Thank you all so much,
Rea

[rhet 2]

Rick broke down while talking to one of his sons today and of course that made me cry too - He told his son that he is just going to give up, this all this accusing and fighting is too much - I left the room and went into our bedroom to cry and when Rick found me he insisted that I tell him why - so I gently pointed to his chest and told him there is a new Rick in there, a Rick washed in the blood of Christ and that new Rick can't do things the way the old Rick did - there can be no pulling back, giving up, withdrawing - God told you that two Sunday's ago when he told you that you are the head of this family and that you had to be His voice, His action and so you can't do things the way the old Rick did - there is too much at stake, our CHILDREN are at stake and we simply cannot let them fall to the wayside because we are too hurt to stand in the face of more hurt - it's not US standing there anyway - it's GOD - HE hurts too, but HE isn't giving up on our kids and neither can you.

Gosh folks, I am sooo glad the Lord did not require that I grow as fast as Rick is having to, and am so blessed to be able to witness and share in this growth - it's taking a LOT of work on his part but he IS so eager to do what God wants...

Anyway, while wrapping his presents for his grandkids and packaging them up for shipping today I had the thought that it might not be appropriate for us to send Corry her presents so I just got on the phone and called Rick's ex-DIL (Zack's mom) and left a message asking what she thought - I told her we had no desire to do aNYTHING that could cause any of them any more pain at such a stressful time, but would she please call us back and let us know whether to send the package now or wait? Then we drove into town to mail the other packages. Angela called us back while we were gone - her voice is so low I could hardly hear it, but she asked us to call back and we did - the poor woman can hardly get out a whole sentence without crying or choking up - I'm thinking I wouldn't be in any better shape were it my 16 yr old that had just passed away so we are very blessed and relieved that she was ABLE to return the call.

She wants us to send Corry's package, and thanked me for the flowers I sent her and Corry (I sent them separate bouquets Friday). While talking to her Rick expressed his concern about Corry and Angela promised that she would have her call soon. Zack's step-mom is still there and will fly home tomorrow, so we hopefully will hear from her soon too -

at any rate all the people involved still need prayers so I ask that if you are led to, please remember them in yours.

Thank you all so much,
Rea

Oh, poor Rick. Growing beautiful in a truly rich way Rick. With Rea at his side.

And Angela: first step to a new beginning for her and Correy and Rick and you and everyone. All we need is for the LORD to nurture the healing and start spreading it to the others, including and especially step-mom.

OF COURSE you have my prayers! And my deepest, hardest hugs to go with them.

[jwil59]

Rick broke down while talking to one of his sons today and of course that made me cry too - He told his son that he is just going to give up, this all this accusing and fighting is too much - I left the room and went into our bedroom to cry and when Rick found me he insisted that I tell him why - so I gently pointed to his chest and told him there is a new Rick in there, a Rick washed in the blood of Christ and that new Rick can't do things the way the old Rick did - there can be no pulling back, giving up, withdrawing - God told you that two Sunday's ago when he told you that you are the head of this family and that you had to be His voice, His action and so you can't do things the way the old Rick did - there is too much at stake, our CHILDREN are at stake and we simply cannot let them fall to the wayside because we are too hurt to stand in the face of more hurt - it's not US standing there anyway - it's GOD - HE hurts too, but HE isn't giving up on our kids and neither can you.

Gosh folks, I am sooo glad the Lord did not require that I grow as fast as Rick is having to, and am so blessed to be able to witness and share in this growth - it's taking a LOT of work on his part but he IS so eager to do what God wants...

Anyway, while wrapping his presents for his grandkids and packaging them up for shipping today I had the thought that it might not be appropriate for us to send Corry her presents so I just got on the phone and called Rick's ex-DIL (Zack's mom) and left a message asking what she thought - I told her we had no desire to do aNYTHING that could cause any of them any more pain at such a stressful time, but would she please call us back and let us know whether to send the package now or wait? Then we drove into town to mail the other packages. Angela called us back while we were gone - her voice is so low I could hardly hear it, but she asked us to call back and we did - the poor woman can hardly get out a whole sentence without crying or choking up - I'm thinking I wouldn't be in any better shape were it my 16 yr old that had just passed away so we are very blessed and relieved that she was ABLE to return the call.

She wants us to send Corry's package, and thanked me for the flowers I sent her and Corry (I sent them separate bouquets Friday). While talking to her Rick expressed his concern about Corry and Angela promised that she would have her call soon. Zack's step-mom is still there and will fly home tomorrow, so we hopefully will hear from her soon too -

at any rate all the people involved still need prayers so I ask that if you are led to, please remember them in yours.

Thank you all so much,
Rea

I am praying Rea. What I am thinking is that this is going to be a real turning point in Rick's spiritual growth

hang tough sis, He is in control

[birdonawire]

Still praying for the whole family that has to be so painful may God ease the pain and give peace.

[USMCmom]

Rick broke down while talking to one of his sons today and of course that made me cry too - He told his son that he is just going to give up, this all this accusing and fighting is too much - I left the room and went into our bedroom to cry and when Rick found me he insisted that I tell him why - so I gently pointed to his chest and told him there is a new Rick in there, a Rick washed in the blood of Christ and that new Rick can't do things the way the old Rick did - there can be no pulling back, giving up, withdrawing - God told you that two Sunday's ago when he told you that you are the head of this family and that you had to be His voice, His action and so you can't do things the way the old Rick did - there is too much at stake, our CHILDREN are at stake and we simply cannot let them fall to the wayside because we are too hurt to stand in the face of more hurt - it's not US standing there anyway - it's GOD - HE hurts too, but HE isn't giving up on our kids and neither can you.

Gosh folks, I am sooo glad the Lord did not require that I grow as fast as Rick is having to, and am so blessed to be able to witness and share in this growth - it's taking a LOT of work on his part but he IS so eager to do what God wants...

Anyway, while wrapping his presents for his grandkids and packaging them up for shipping today I had the thought that it might not be appropriate for us to send Corry her presents so I just got on the phone and called Rick's ex-DIL (Zack's mom) and left a message asking what she thought - I told her we had no desire to do aNYTHING that could cause any of them any more pain at such a stressful time, but would she please call us back and let us know whether to send the package now or wait? Then we drove into town to mail the other packages. Angela called us back while we were gone - her voice is so low I could hardly hear it, but she asked us to call back and we did - the poor woman can hardly get out a whole sentence without crying or choking up - I'm thinking I wouldn't be in any better shape were it my 16 yr old that had just passed away so we are very blessed and relieved that she was ABLE to return the call.

She wants us to send Corry's package, and thanked me for the flowers I sent her and Corry (I sent them separate bouquets Friday). While talking to her Rick expressed his concern about Corry and Angela promised that she would have her call soon. Zack's step-mom is still there and will fly home tomorrow, so we hopefully will hear from her soon too -

at any rate all the people involved still need prayers so I ask that if you are led to, please remember them in yours.

Thank you all so much,
Rea

Will keep all of you in my prayers...
Merry Christmas & God Bless

[itsrea]

I really DO thank each and every one of you - I don't know what I'd do if I did not have here and the Ladies Study... my heart breaks and I struggle with tears thinking about how rough time has been since Rick's coming to the Lord. Don't get me wrong - I am blessed beyond measure that he has turned to the Lord, it's just that it seems to me that this should be a joyous time for him, these beginning baby steps, and here he is learning some really hard steps really early in his walk. I just keep reminding myself that the Lord's plan is perfect and that He knows what He's doing... and THAT kinda scares me - I mean what could be in store for Rick that THESE days are the lessons that prepare him for what the Lord wants of him?

Lord, provide us with your strength because ours is weak and puny and shivering... Thank you for each and every heart that's willing to pray for us, and thank you for holding Rick steadfast in your way.

In Jesus name,
Amen

[rhet 2]

I really DO thank each and every one of you - I don't know what I'd do if I did not have here and the Ladies Study... my heart breaks and I struggle with tears thinking about how rough time has been since Rick's coming to the Lord. Don't get me wrong - I am blessed beyond measure that he has turned to the Lord, it's just that it seems to me that this should be a joyous time for him, these beginning baby steps, and here he is learning some really hard steps really early in his walk. I just keep reminding myself that the Lord's plan is perfect and that He knows what He's doing... and THAT kinda scares me - I mean what could be in store for Rick that THESE days are the lessons that prepare him for what the Lord wants of him?

Lord, provide us with your strength because ours is weak and puny and shivering... Thank you for each and every heart that's willing to pray for us, and thank you for holding Rick steadfast in your way.

In Jesus name,
Amen

Just think about how fast the first century Christians had to grow in faith -- and they lacked centuries of clarification of the teachings of the LORD and the Apostles.

Yet, because of the tough, they were the finest of the fine when it came to unshakable faith and the strength needed to change the world.

Your Rick is obviously scheduled for strong leadership among the faithful -- and that's no bad thing, darling. You just stick at his side like glue, to be his Sarah, his Deborah, his Priscella -- a Proverbs 31 woman worthy of a "Well done" from the LORD in your own turn.

Just like you already have been doing -- because the LORD's growing you at the same time, at the same pace, through the same testings of your own faith. Just like He grew you up through tough trials to prep you for these trials in the present moment, wise and strong to be Rick's soul mate because you learned the hard way long before you met your Rick.

The LORD will grow Rick fit for the LORD's work, strong and sure and steady, you betcha!

:pray: and :pray: and :pray: some more.

[itsrea]

Just think about how fast the first century Christians had to grow in faith -- and they lacked centuries of clarification of the teachings of the LORD and the Apostles.

Yet, because of the tough, they were the finest of the fine when it came to unshakable faith and the strength needed to change the world.

Your Rick is obviously scheduled for strong leadership among the faithful -- and that's no bad thing, darling. You just stick at his side like glue, to be his Sarah, his Deborah, his Priscella -- a Proverbs 31 woman worthy of a "Well done" from the LORD in your own turn.

Just like you already have been doing -- because the LORD's growing you at the same time, at the same pace, through the same testings of your own faith. Just like He grew you up through tough trials to prep you for these trials in the present moment, wise and strong to be Rick's soul mate because you learned the hard way long before you met your Rick.

The LORD will grow Rick fit for the LORD's work, strong and sure and steady, you betcha!

:pray: and :pray: and :pray: some more.Rick's sister-in-law emailed me today to remember to remain flexible because the Lord can use me better and I won't break if I am flexible.. funny how that little detail always seems to slip out of my memory... I thank you for your advice ((((Rhet))) - it's a BIG help, and witness to what our Sunday School teacher told Rick the day he was baptised.. that the Lord told her he is going to use Rick in a BIG way.

Rick's DIL, Zack's step-mom, responded to my email about where to send Christmas presents today - she said send them to her mom's because they will go there first then to her sister's in Wenatchee (spelling?) for Christmas.. she said weather permitting she's flying back to WA (from Wisconsin) today and that she loves us.

Although the email was very short for her, I'm assuming that if she's picking up emails in Wisconsin then the emails that have been flying back and forth between her and Rick's kids maybe are not going to affect her relationship with US. I pray not because Rick literally HAS lost all he can bear.

[rhet 2]

Rick's sister-in-law emailed me today to remember to remain flexible because the Lord can use me better and I won't break if I am flexible.. funny how that little detail always seems to slip out of my memory... I thank you for your advice ((((Rhet))) - it's a BIG help, and witness to what our Sunday School teacher told Rick the day he was baptised.. that the Lord told her he is going to use Rick in a BIG way.

Rick's DIL, Zack's step-mom, responded to my email about where to send Christmas presents today - she said send them to her mom's because they will go there first then to her sister's in Wenatchee (spelling?) for Christmas.. she said weather permitting she's flying back to WA (from Wisconsin) today and that she loves us.

Although the email was very short for her, I'm assuming that if she's picking up emails in Wisconsin then the emails that have been flying back and forth between her and Rick's kids maybe are not going to affect her relationship with US. I pray not because Rick literally HAS lost all he can bear.

That he has!

The emails would suggest some heart-softening underway. I pray so!

And I pray there's not more heartbreak headed his way for years and years, he's taken so much lately. And so have you, for that matter.

:hug:

[jwil59]

I really DO thank each and every one of you - I don't know what I'd do if I did not have here and the Ladies Study... my heart breaks and I struggle with tears thinking about how rough time has been since Rick's coming to the Lord. Don't get me wrong - I am blessed beyond measure that he has turned to the Lord, it's just that it seems to me that this should be a joyous time for him, these beginning baby steps, and here he is learning some really hard steps really early in his walk. I just keep reminding myself that the Lord's plan is perfect and that He knows what He's doing... and THAT kinda scares me - I mean what could be in store for Rick that THESE days are the lessons that prepare him for what the Lord wants of him?

Lord, provide us with your strength because ours is weak and puny and shivering... Thank you for each and every heart that's willing to pray for us, and thank you for holding Rick steadfast in your way.

In Jesus name,
Amen

Rea being a Christ filled Christian is hard for even the most seasoned belivers because we often think that God should take all our pain. There is a lot of Scripture relating to Christians that suffer with physiacl and mental problems as well as greif, I am sure you know what I am talking about. Yall meditate on that. Thanks for what you are saying about God will and His perfect plan because we can all learn from that, especially comming from people going through a rough period like yall are. God bless you for that faith, that is exactly what God wants from you and Rick right now.

God bless you both, I am praying

[itsrea]

A note:

If any of you watch foxnews :)) you already know that parts of the Cascades are already under blizzard warnings - here on our side of them the weather is strange to say the least - we had a sunny and semi-warm day, then the sun set and twilight was those funny wisps of steam coming off the ground like they used to use in the oldtime scary movies - it's only 10 after five and the decks are already frozen over - those of us that live here have been watching this weather form up for days now - today we spent the afternoon splitting more wood and carrying it to the garage, the tub and 5 gallon water jugs are filled in case we lose power, the lantern is charging and the candles are set with matches ready... that's about all we can do now but wait to see if the high winds will hit us - there is a dead tree across the road just waiting to take out the power lines of it does - so if you don't hear from me for a couple of days don't worry - we are snug as a bug here with everything we can ready :)

Take care all - who was it that used to say don't forget to brush your teeth and say your bedtimes prayers?

hugs,
Rea

[itsrea]

Rea being a Christ filled Christian is hard for even the most seasoned belivers because we often think that God should take all our pain. There is a lot of Scripture relating to Christians that suffer with physiacl and mental problems as well as greif, I am sure you know what I am talking about. Yall meditate on that. Thanks for what you are saying about God will and His perfect plan because we can all learn from that, especially comming from people going through a rough period like yall are. God bless you for that faith, that is exactly what God wants from you and Rick right now.

God bless you both, I am prayingthank you my friend :)

[bella-day]

A note:

If any of you watch foxnews :)) you already know that parts of the Cascades are already under blizzard warnings - here on our side of them the weather is strange to say the least - we had a sunny and semi-warm day, then the sun set and twilight was those funny wisps of steam coming off the ground like they used to use in the oldtime scary movies - it's only 10 after five and the decks are already frozen over - those of us that live here have been watching this weather form up for days now - today we spent the afternoon splitting more wood and carrying it to the garage, the tub and 5 gallon water jugs are filled in case we lose power, the lantern is charging and the candles are set with matches ready... that's about all we can do now but wait to see if the high winds will hit us - there is a dead tree across the road just waiting to take out the power lines of it does - so if you don't hear from me for a couple of days don't worry - we are snug as a bug here with everything we can ready :)

Take care all - who was it that used to say don't forget to brush your teeth and say your bedtimes prayers?

hugs,
Rea


Take care rea. Stay warm, cozy, and very safe.

[rhet 2]

Take care rea. Stay warm, cozy, and very safe.

Amen to that!

For all the folks facing this weather system, too.

[USMCmom]

Rea...hope all is well in your neck of the woods! Praying that the storm will pass with as little damage as possible!
Take care ...
Stay warm & safe

[itsrea]

Take care rea. Stay warm, cozy, and very safe.Amen to that!

For all the folks facing this weather system, too.

Rea...hope all is well in your neck of the woods! Praying that the storm will pass with as little damage as possible!
Take care ...
Stay warm & safe:redface: Well, I feel really dum now... the weatherman just moved the storm to tomorrow evening lol.

:redface:

Thank you :hug: Bella :hug: Rhet :hug: hope you're safe and warm too USMC :hug:

Rick says we're going to put more wood in the garage tomorrow..

On a happy note Rick's DIL emailed me that the packages arrived today and she opened hers.. she said she needed some cheering and she hoped I didn't mind. I emailed back that I don't mind but I don't know what Santa will think of that.. she responded with a 'lets not tell him' and I responded with a "don't you know? He already knowssssssssssssss'. She wrote back a lol.

I know that she is not doing well today because she emailed last night that it's harder being home then it was being back there and that she's afraid of losing MORE kids.. then she apologized for unloading on me - that made ME sit here and have a good cry too - keeping in mind that she's been widowed 13 months and just lost her step-son (they were VERY close), I knew she wasn't going to be doing any better today and then her mom emailed me that she's feeling very low. I told her unload anytime... and reasurred her that she has a choice, let God help her grieve and heal, or stay afraid, and that I did not believe for one moment that she would settle for being afraid, she is too strong.. I keep thinking it can't be true, how can it be true, how can Zack just be gone? And I have a LOT more experience with people passing on then she has so I know it IS a lot to handle folks - She is very far away from us, and with these storms moving in I wouldn't want her on the road anyway, not with a 6 yr old and a 2 yr old, so lets just all pray that the Lord will settle into her heart, show her it's ok to grieve, and ease her fears please..

BTW, her sister is in labor, ready to deliver her third child, they've kept Zack's death from her because of her being so close to delivery - please pray about a safe delivery too please - her name is Jeni - she used to babysit Zack.

[rhet 2]

:redface: Well, I feel really dum now... the weatherman just moved the storm to tomorrow evening lol.

:redface:

Thank you :hug: Bella :hug: Rhet :hug: hope you're safe and warm too USMC :hug:

Rick says we're going to put more wood in the garage tomorrow..

On a happy note Rick's DIL emailed me that the packages arrived today and she opened hers.. she said she needed some cheering and she hoped I didn't mind. I emailed back that I don't mind but I don't know what Santa will think of that.. she responded with a 'lets not tell him' and I responded with a "don't you know? He already knowssssssssssssss'. She wrote back a lol.

I know that she is not doing well today because she emailed last night that it's harder being home then it was being back there and that she's afraid of losing MORE kids.. then she apologized for unloading on me - that made ME sit here and have a good cry too - keeping in mind that she's been widowed 13 months and just lost her step-son (they were VERY close), I knew she wasn't going to be doing any better today and then her mom emailed me that she's feeling very low. I told her unload anytime... and reasurred her that she has a choice, let God help her grieve and heal, or stay afraid, and that I did not believe for one moment that she would settle for being afraid, she is too strong.. I keep thinking it can't be true, how can it be true, how can Zack just be gone? And I have a LOT more experience with people passing on then she has so I know it IS a lot to handle folks - She is very far away from us, and with these storms moving in I wouldn't want her on the road anyway, not with a 6 yr old and a 2 yr old, so lets just all pray that the Lord will settle into her heart, show her it's ok to grieve, and ease her fears please..

BTW, her sister is in labor, ready to deliver her third child, they've kept Zack's death from her because of her being so close to delivery - please pray about a safe delivery too please - her name is Jeni - she used to babysit Zack.

You betcha, prayers for Jeni and for the babe to come.

AND continuing prayers for Zack's step-mom. I'm so glad she felt able to unload on you, for from such sharing, deep loving comes.

AND praying for the other two children, too.

AND for you and Rick.

Such a loss as Zack's is never easy to endure, ever. The sharp edges of her grief eased in time, but Mama never stopped grieving for Jenny, who was not quite 18 when she left us. Some days, I too still grieve for what might have and should have been. So I do truly pray the LORD hastens to soften the edges of your own family's grieving across the board.

Please keep us updated about the baby -- new births can and do soften the world all around them.

[itsrea]

I was up pacing most of the night with sore hips and knees, so kept the fire going, and slugged into bed this morning when Rick got up with the dogs, trusting him to keep the warmth going and woke a hour later to the smell of smoke and Rick standing over the wood stove cussing and filling the house with smoke - he thinks he can use his campfire techniques on a wood stove so threw a huge, damp log on it and it almost went out - with it 28 degrees outside it was almost freezing inside. I just spent the last two hours urging some coals to get hot enough to roll that log onto so we can try and burn it. It it doesn't take this time I'm taking the damned calipers and throwing the log out onto the lawn so I can start another, real fire, and be WARM.

Rick's DIL called this morning, she said to check in, but we could tell she really needed bolstering. She just sits on the other end of the line, not saying much - we're all hurting so much that it's hard to know what to say to each other and because she is so far away we can't do what we've been doing with each other - just stopping and hugging.

Rick left the light on in my CRV then decided to charge the battery himself and forgot to disconnect the computer so there are lights and bells going off all over inside now - he took it to our local mechanic who begged for a chance to hook it up to HIS new computer. Rick will eat breakfast in town, which will mean his blood sugar will be sky high because it was already high from talking to his DIL and fighting the fire.

It's dark and gray but no blizzard so far - just a gentle wind with rain and a few snowflakes here and there.

Rusty, who LOVES the snow, is sitting at the window whining at the occasional flake. Ruby, who is too young to remember last winter, is sitting at the window, growling.

They can see so well because I got tired of fighting the damned old metal mini-ventian shade that is too big for that sill and hangs up on the inside of the sill every time I try to raise or lower it and that cut my hand and so I yanked the damned thing out of the sill and threw it on the ground, then stomped and stomped and stomped on it and then rolled it into a the tightest wad I could (the top got in the way but I FIXED THAT by banging it on the floor till it crumpled, then I threw it across the room..







Guess I'm not doing as well as I thought I was.









And guess I'm going to get new shades for those windows now.

[rhet 2]

I was up pacing most of the night with sore hips and knees, so kept the fire going, and slugged into bed this morning when Rick got up with the dogs, trusting him to keep the warmth going and woke a hour later to the smell of smoke and Rick standing over the wood stove cussing and filling the house with smoke - he thinks he can use his campfire techniques on a wood stove so threw a huge, damp log on it and it almost went out - with it 28 degrees outside it was almost freezing inside. I just spent the last two hours urging some coals to get hot enough to roll that log onto so we can try and burn it. It it doesn't take this time I'm taking the damned calipers and throwing the log out onto the lawn so I can start another, real fire, and be WARM.

Rick's DIL called this morning, she said to check in, but we could tell she really needed bolstering. She just sits on the other end of the line, not saying much - we're all hurting so much that it's hard to know what to say to each other and because she is so far away we can't do what we've been doing with each other - just stopping and hugging.

Rick left the light on in my CRV then decided to charge the battery himself and forgot to disconnect the computer so there are lights and bells going off all over inside now - he took it to our local mechanic who begged for a chance to hook it up to HIS new computer. Rick will eat breakfast in town, which will mean his blood sugar will be sky high because it was already high from talking to his DIL and fighting the fire.

It's dark and gray but no blizzard so far - just a gentle wind with rain and a few snowflakes here and there.

Rusty, who LOVES the snow, is sitting at the window whining at the occasional flake. Ruby, who is too young to remember last winter, is sitting at the window, growling.

They can see so well because I got tired of fighting the damned old metal mini-ventian shade that is too big for that sill and hangs up on the inside of the sill every time I try to raise or lower it and that cut my hand and so I yanked the damned thing out of the sill and threw it on the ground, then stomped and stomped and stomped on it and then rolled it into a the tightest wad I could (the top got in the way but I FIXED THAT by banging it on the floor till it crumpled, then I threw it across the room..







Guess I'm not doing as well as I thought I was.









And guess I'm going to get new shades for those windows now.

:)) LOL about the fire and the window shade -- my granddad did the same thing more than once, and you react just like my grandmama would -- and guess what happened to the mini-blinds in the living room that is now my office -- for two years, the fabric to make my own shades has been sitting beside my sewing desk -- and now I'm through waiting for the Bear to cut the wood slats required to hang the dad-nab it Venentian style shades I want -- I think I'll just jolly well follow Mom's advice and start to do it myself, just so he will take over to do the job right. :))

Not laughing about DIL -- weeping for you all -- but still I see critical re-connects happening, not despite the grief but because of it. HUGS that cannot be counted or measured for you all. Including the dogs.

[itsrea]

We lost the power to half our home yesterday afternoon - spent a hour checking out breakers, etc, decided it was a bad breaker, and not a store around had one - we looked to see if there was one we could trade out for the night and decided to give up the dishwasher and the dining room lights for the TV and the computers, and guess what? It isn't the breaker.. that breaker works in every position in the panel, and the overhead lights work in all rooms, including that side of the house.. it's the plug-ins that won't work.

Things piled up on Rick after that.. he got stubborn, wouldn't ask for prayers, wouldn't talk to me, just sat and stared at nothing. I tried to approach him with no results, then he'd get up and start looking at the breakers again, got mad at me and yelled at me twice, the second time so loud and mean spirited I sat down the flashlight and walked off.. he came looking for me and apologized and said it was my fault cause I knew he was stressed.. that was a leeeetle too much for me to handle so I told him that there is NO way he'd EVER use that tone of voice to ANYONE else in his life NO MATTER HOW STRESSED HE WAS. He came back to me later and said he got my point and apologized for real this time.

Then we woke to the dogs barking and fire trucks parked all over the neighbors yard.. seems they thought they'd caught the attic on fire - and smoke was billowing out but it was from the stove pipe and that awful smelling green wood they've been burning... after that sleep was iffy for the rest of the night.. power came on, went off, came on, went off, came on and I got the TV shut off and the coffee made before it went off again.. then it came on for good.. we still only have power to half the house.

He finally did call around to our friends and ask for advice.. since the breaker is not blowing he now has to find someone to go under the house.... then he sat down and asked the Lord to please give him LOTS more patience.

So far the Lord has not answered that prayer.

Although the blizzard never hit us as bad as it did some parts of the state, we have had snow and snow and more snow, and it's still snowing. Rick went out and shoveled a couple of paths, and then drove up and down the drive to keep it clear.. once it starts snowing we just park my CRV and drive his 4by Dodge cause my little Honda just skids around..

Anyway, I can only leave the computer on an extension cord for a few so thought I'd let you know it could be a couple of days before I get back online.. take care, I'll catch up when things are fixed...

Rea

[USMCmom]

We lost the power to half our home yesterday afternoon - spent a hour checking out breakers, etc, decided it was a bad breaker, and not a store around had one - we looked to see if there was one we could trade out for the night and decided to give up the dishwasher and the dining room lights for the TV and the computers, and guess what? It isn't the breaker.. that breaker works in every position in the panel, and the overhead lights work in all rooms, including that side of the house.. it's the plug-ins that won't work.

Things piled up on Rick after that.. he got stubborn, wouldn't ask for prayers, wouldn't talk to me, just sat and stared at nothing. I tried to approach him with no results, then he'd get up and start looking at the breakers again, got mad at me and yelled at me twice, the second time so loud and mean spirited I sat down the flashlight and walked off.. he came looking for me and apologized and said it was my fault cause I knew he was stressed.. that was a leeeetle too much for me to handle so I told him that there is NO way he'd EVER use that tone of voice to ANYONE else in his life NO MATTER HOW STRESSED HE WAS. He came back to me later and said he got my point and apologized for real this time.

Then we woke to the dogs barking and fire trucks parked all over the neighbors yard.. seems they thought they'd caught the attic on fire - and smoke was billowing out but it was from the stove pipe and that awful smelling green wood they've been burning... after that sleep was iffy for the rest of the night.. power came on, went off, came on, went off, came on and I got the TV shut off and the coffee made before it went off again.. then it came on for good.. we still only have power to half the house.

He finally did call around to our friends and ask for advice.. since the breaker is not blowing he now has to find someone to go under the house.... then he sat down and asked the Lord to please give him LOTS more patience.

So far the Lord has not answered that prayer.

Although the blizzard never hit us as bad as it did some parts of the state, we have had snow and snow and more snow, and it's still snowing. Rick went out and shoveled a couple of paths, and then drove up and down the drive to keep it clear.. once it starts snowing we just park my CRV and drive his 4by Dodge cause my little Honda just skids around..

Anyway, I can only leave the computer on an extension cord for a few so thought I'd let you know it could be a couple of days before I get back online.. take care, I'll catch up when things are fixed...

Rea

Oh goodness...I hope that you can get that fixed and that the snow will ease up! Ol' Man Winter sure hits with a bang...woke up here to snow as well.
Am praying that all will be well soon...will keep Jeni & the little one in my prayers.
Will pray for your family...
God Bless & Keep warm

[itsrea]

Another night of sitting with one lamp then hopefully this electric problem will be fixed.. We called around to all the electricians we can find - either they are out of business, or busy and can't get to us for days and days.

I found a number for a friend of our that wintered over here in town last yr and is down to Chehalis (sp?) now - Rick called him but he's working on a job already so Rick hung up and everything just piled up on him again - he got grumpy with me and not making much sense about what he wanted to try - then he goes and sits in his chair and starts to go to sleep. Just going to go to sleep in the middle of electric boxes hanging out of walls.. I said Rick I know you are tired and not handling things very well, but can you tell me what the plan is? He said I'm going to see if anyone stops by to help us. :eek: I said it will be dark in two hours - shouldn't we clean this mess up? He slambs out of his recliner and stomps off and the next thing I know he's packing tools into his overalls to go under the house.. I told him you have to have a mask - he said no, I just won't stir things up. I said I'm sure that last month when that policeman died from the hunta virus he contacted at the pistol range didn't stir things up either Rick. He glares at me and heads for town for some masks and I sit down and call our friend back - I told him Rick will NOT ask any friends for help and does not know what to do.. I said he's feeling helpless and angry cause his grandson died and helpless and angry cause he doesn't know how to find the problem and then like a stooopid baby I started crying and our friend (who is an electrician) said don't let him go under the house, I'll be there tomorrow morning - tell him I'll call him this afternoon to verify when.

I thought Rick was going to sit down and cry when I told him. He's asleep in the recliner now.

Please pray for peace for us all folks.

[rhet 2]

Another night of sitting with one lamp then hopefully this electric problem will be fixed.. We called around to all the electricians we can find - either they are out of business, or busy and can't get to us for days and days.

I found a number for a friend of our that wintered over here in town last yr and is down to Chehalis (sp?) now - Rick called him but he's working on a job already so Rick hung up and everything just piled up on him again - he got grumpy with me and not making much sense about what he wanted to try - then he goes and sits in his chair and starts to go to sleep. Just going to go to sleep in the middle of electric boxes hanging out of walls.. I said Rick I know you are tired and not handling things very well, but can you tell me what the plan is? He said I'm going to see if anyone stops by to help us. :eek: I said it will be dark in two hours - shouldn't we clean this mess up? He slambs out of his recliner and stomps off and the next thing I know he's packing tools into his overalls to go under the house.. I told him you have to have a mask - he said no, I just won't stir things up. I said I'm sure that last month when that policeman died from the hunta virus he contacted at the pistol range didn't stir things up either Rick. He glares at me and heads for town for some masks and I sit down and call our friend back - I told him Rick will NOT ask any friends for help and does not know what to do.. I said he's feeling helpless and angry cause his grandson died and helpless and angry cause he doesn't know how to find the problem and then like a stooopid baby I started crying and our friend (who is an electrician) said don't let him go under the house, I'll be there tomorrow morning - tell him I'll call him this afternoon to verify when.

I thought Rick was going to sit down and cry when I told him. He's asleep in the recliner now.

Please pray for peace for us all folks.
I AM so praying.

Poor Rick. And poor Rea. It's is awful when our Cuddlers turn into Bears -- and I pray the LORD gentle his despair and sense of failure fast-fast-fast -- and gets the electricity problem fixed at the same time he's fixing souls.

[jwil59]

Another night of sitting with one lamp then hopefully this electric problem will be fixed.. We called around to all the electricians we can find - either they are out of business, or busy and can't get to us for days and days.

I found a number for a friend of our that wintered over here in town last yr and is down to Chehalis (sp?) now - Rick called him but he's working on a job already so Rick hung up and everything just piled up on him again - he got grumpy with me and not making much sense about what he wanted to try - then he goes and sits in his chair and starts to go to sleep. Just going to go to sleep in the middle of electric boxes hanging out of walls.. I said Rick I know you are tired and not handling things very well, but can you tell me what the plan is? He said I'm going to see if anyone stops by to help us. :eek: I said it will be dark in two hours - shouldn't we clean this mess up? He slambs out of his recliner and stomps off and the next thing I know he's packing tools into his overalls to go under the house.. I told him you have to have a mask - he said no, I just won't stir things up. I said I'm sure that last month when that policeman died from the hunta virus he contacted at the pistol range didn't stir things up either Rick. He glares at me and heads for town for some masks and I sit down and call our friend back - I told him Rick will NOT ask any friends for help and does not know what to do.. I said he's feeling helpless and angry cause his grandson died and helpless and angry cause he doesn't know how to find the problem and then like a stooopid baby I started crying and our friend (who is an electrician) said don't let him go under the house, I'll be there tomorrow morning - tell him I'll call him this afternoon to verify when.

I thought Rick was going to sit down and cry when I told him. He's asleep in the recliner now.

Please pray for peace for us all folks.

You've got my prayers Rea. hang in there dear

[itsrea]

Rick says he is fast discovering how hard it is to get an electrician to come out in the snow - and that would be funny if we didn't have four guests coming to Christmas Dinner... course THAT side of the house has power - it's still the other side (computer room, livingroom and master bedroom) that's without power.. I only allow one lamp on an extension cord for the living room cause I'm afraid we'll lose the side the cord is run from and thus lose the fridge and freezer..

So, just a note to let you know that I'm not online cept for short bursts on the extension cord... we've hired what Rick says is an electrician and a half (our friend spent almost five hours trying to find the problem, and the next electrician came without the tools needed to diagnose the problem) - we were able to reach a electrician the builder recommended and he'll be out as soon as the snow allows - which is forecast for a couple more days and is now built up to over a foot, closer to two probably - I said soon the dogs will just be able to step over the fences lol.

We're struggling here folks - we have been since Zack died and now with the electrical problems Rick is feeling useless and helpless and I'm cornered for a good part of every evening/night (four p.m. till 8 the next morning) because I simply cannot see in this one lamp existence... We're at our wits ends and trying to hold on to what little peace we can - we'd appreciate some prayers please.

[rhet 2]

Rick says he is fast discovering how hard it is to get an electrician to come out in the snow - and that would be funny if we didn't have four guests coming to Christmas Dinner... course THAT side of the house has power - it's still the other side (computer room, livingroom and master bedroom) that's without power.. I only allow one lamp on an extension cord for the living room cause I'm afraid we'll lose the side the cord is run from and thus lose the fridge and freezer..

So, just a note to let you know that I'm not online cept for short bursts on the extension cord... we've hired what Rick says is an electrician and a half (our friend spent almost five hours trying to find the problem, and the next electrician came without the tools needed to diagnose the problem) - we were able to reach a electrician the builder recommended and he'll be out as soon as the snow allows - which is forecast for a couple more days and is now built up to over a foot, closer to two probably - I said soon the dogs will just be able to step over the fences lol.

We're struggling here folks - we have been since Zack died and now with the electrical problems Rick is feeling useless and helpless and I'm cornered for a good part of every evening/night (four p.m. till 8 the next morning) because I simply cannot see in this one lamp existence... We're at our wits ends and trying to hold on to what little peace we can - we'd appreciate some prayers please.

Oh, I AM praying. Weather, electrician, Rick's confidence in himself, your patience -- the Good LORD just HAS TO provide deliverance SOON and give you folks some time in green pastures beside some still waters long enough to catch your breath and recoup some spiritual and physical energy!

Hang in there, dear sister. Relief just HAS TO come around the corner any time now. Just HAS TO. Peter -- prison -- angels breaking him out -- that sort of miraculous -- and or natural -- deliverance -- don't care how, just HAS TO BE.

You two just hang in there.

SUPER HUGS

[Seanachie]

Where to start? Trace the circuit wire right to the breaker box. Check to make sure the nuetral wire (White) is still snugly attached to the Nuetral bar. If the circuit runs under into the crawl space...check to see if the wire has been broken. Sometimes critters eat through the wire and short it.

That's the obvious stuff. Knowing where that wire circuit goes to (1st outlet) is where to start. If it's dead there, then it's between the circuit breaker and the 1st outlet.

You need a meter for this to investigate further. The meter should be able to test continuity. Ideal makes one, costs about 40..45 bucks. The counter guy at an elctrical supply house can show you how it's done with a piece of wire.

I'll try to explain: Disconnect the Hot wire from the breaker. Usually black in color but can be red if a 12-3 or 14-3 was used. (12 and 14 are guages of wire) Red AND black hot wires are wired into seperate breakers. The 1st outlet should tell the tale by counting the wires coming into the outlet box and continuing out to the next box. Disconnect the nuetral wire at the breaker box (White) from the nuetral bar. Disconnect the hot wire (Black or Red) from the outlet (Usually on a GOLD or Brass colored screw or stabbed into the back of the outlet. Disconect the nuetral wire from the outlet (Silver screw). Now you have two loose wires at the breaker box and at the outlet box.

It takes two people to do this next step. While one person holds the Hot and Nuetral together the other holds the leads of the meter to the nuetral wire (White) and to the Black or Red (Hot) wire.

An Ideal meter has a red light that will come on when the wires are touched together. It will go out when the wires are seperated. The red light will indicate if there is a break between the two places if it DOES NOT come on. Then you continue on to the next outlet till you find the what's causing lack of continuity if necessary.

Keep in mind that only an Electrician should be doing this unless someone has enough experience to run the test.

You could be checking one breaker when there may be two if 12-3 or 14-3 was used to run two seperate circuits. The nuetral wire is used for both circuits. Keep in mind that there is a bare copper wire that is used for grounding So you would actually have four wires in a 14-3 or 12-3 wire.

Same is true for 12-2 0r 14-2. The bare copper wire is not counted while there are three wires nonetheless. Black, White and bare copper.

I'll keep You and Rick in my prayers that the Good Lord bless You both in solving this problem or sends someone that can help.

Be well Lady and remember that working with electricity is dangerous business and should NOT be messed with without expertise.

PS: There are heavier guages of wire used for dryer/stove/ outlets. Well pumps/AC/Heaters etc . The guages of wire I mentioned are usually used for light outlets (14-2 or 14-3). 12-2 or 12-3 are generally used for plug in outlets. This is all general knowledge and there are exceptions to either rule depending on the load of a circuit. 15 amp breakers are usually used on 14 wire and 20 amp breakers on 12 wire. The amp breakers need to correspond to the size of the wire AND the load. Interchanging them; ie: a 20 amp to a 15 amp is a BIG no-no and could cause a fire or damage appliances.

PS: BE DARN careful no matter what. This is NOT to be MESSED with if you don't have the knowledge and knowhow!

[USMCmom]

Rick says he is fast discovering how hard it is to get an electrician to come out in the snow - and that would be funny if we didn't have four guests coming to Christmas Dinner... course THAT side of the house has power - it's still the other side (computer room, livingroom and master bedroom) that's without power.. I only allow one lamp on an extension cord for the living room cause I'm afraid we'll lose the side the cord is run from and thus lose the fridge and freezer..

So, just a note to let you know that I'm not online cept for short bursts on the extension cord... we've hired what Rick says is an electrician and a half (our friend spent almost five hours trying to find the problem, and the next electrician came without the tools needed to diagnose the problem) - we were able to reach a electrician the builder recommended and he'll be out as soon as the snow allows - which is forecast for a couple more days and is now built up to over a foot, closer to two probably - I said soon the dogs will just be able to step over the fences lol.

We're struggling here folks - we have been since Zack died and now with the electrical problems Rick is feeling useless and helpless and I'm cornered for a good part of every evening/night (four p.m. till 8 the next morning) because I simply cannot see in this one lamp existence... We're at our wits ends and trying to hold on to what little peace we can - we'd appreciate some prayers please.

Tonight I will offer my prayers to our Savior to PLEASE, PLEASE help you through this. I can't imagine the stress that you both must be under and if it was at all possible to FedEx our local electrician to you I would.

Our family will from time to time will send out different prayers that they have been given, have found or have heard. I am not as eloquent or articulate as some...so I offer this prayer to our Savior that was given to me by a friend!

Lord God...
As somebody so beautifully put it, 'friends are the family we choose for ourselves'. In a world where everything seems so unstable and brother turns against brother, there is nothing more comforting than the thought of having faithful friends who are always ready to offer us their help and support.

You taught us, Lord, to love one another as you had loved us and that there is no greater love for a man than to give his life for his friends. Through your life and personal example you gave us a lesson on what true friendship means. Help us follow you and be good friends to our friends. Fill us with your Holy Spirit, so that we can find the right words to pray for them and to thank you for bringing them in our lives.

And as we pray, from the depth of our heart and mind, we say to you: Lord God, watch over my friends. Protect them from all evil and harm and never leave them when they are in need as they have never left me when I was in need. Be their helper and comforter as they have been my helpers and comforters in times of trouble.

Never let any of their prayers return from you unanswered. Never let them feel the sting of loneliness or the bitterness of despair. When hope is gone, bring it back to them. When faith is lost, restore it and make it ten times stronger. When they face challenges, hold them by hand and bear their burdens all along the way. Let them feel the power of your unchanged love renewed with every step they take.

Work in their lives. Be strong in their hearts. Heal their bodies and souls and help them make the best of this life as they prepare for eternity. Reveal to them the beauty of your creation and the miracle of your love. Give them a faith so strong that it can move mountains. And as they acknowledge you in their lives, come and sit at their table and dine with them. Make room for them in your eternal kingdom and keep their candle burning until the end of times.

Amen...

God Bless....

[rhet 2]

Tonight I will offer my prayers to our Savior to PLEASE, PLEASE help you through this. I can't imagine the stress that you both must be under and if it was at all possible to FedEx our local electrician to you I would.

Our family will from time to time will send out different prayers that they have been given, have found or have heard. I am not as eloquent or articulate as some...so I offer this prayer to our Savior that was given to me by a friend!

Lord God...
As somebody so beautifully put it, 'friends are the family we choose for ourselves'. In a world where everything seems so unstable and brother turns against brother, there is nothing more comforting than the thought of having faithful friends who are always ready to offer us their help and support.

You taught us, Lord, to love one another as you had loved us and that there is no greater love for a man than to give his life for his friends. Through your life and personal example you gave us a lesson on what true friendship means. Help us follow you and be good friends to our friends. Fill us with your Holy Spirit, so that we can find the right words to pray for them and to thank you for bringing them in our lives.

And as we pray, from the depth of our heart and mind, we say to you: Lord God, watch over my friends. Protect them from all evil and harm and never leave them when they are in need as they have never left me when I was in need. Be their helper and comforter as they have been my helpers and comforters in times of trouble.

Never let any of their prayers return from you unanswered. Never let them feel the sting of loneliness or the bitterness of despair. When hope is gone, bring it back to them. When faith is lost, restore it and make it ten times stronger. When they face challenges, hold them by hand and bear their burdens all along the way. Let them feel the power of your unchanged love renewed with every step they take.

Work in their lives. Be strong in their hearts. Heal their bodies and souls and help them make the best of this life as they prepare for eternity. Reveal to them the beauty of your creation and the miracle of your love. Give them a faith so strong that it can move mountains. And as they acknowledge you in their lives, come and sit at their table and dine with them. Make room for them in your eternal kingdom and keep their candle burning until the end of times.

Amen...

God Bless....

Amen

And protect Rick and Rea while they try to follow Seanachie's counsel. Better yet, deliver a pro and let Rick understand this IS a job for a pro.

[Seanachie]

Another scenario also comes to mind. Look at the wires that come from the utility pole and visually make sure they are all connected. The same is true where the wires come down to your meter box.

Next step: And again; you need a hand meter to check this. There are usually 3 wires that came from the utility pole to electric meter box (pan). They continue to your main breaker box. Both coated wires (encased in plastic) carry 110 volts on each wire lead. The third wire is usually a bare wire that can be made form copper or aluminum. This (the bare wire) is the 'nuetral'. The 'hot leads' are connected to lugs on eiter side of what is called the 'buss bars'. This buss bar is what your breakers make contact with to provide electricity.

To test with meter: Put one lead on the hot lug and the other on the nuetral lug or bar the nuetral wire is connected to. Your meter should indicate 110 volts are supplying that side of the buss bar. Do this on the other side as well. If either side DOES NOT read 110 volts; the problem lies there.

Another way to test: Put each lead, one lead to each of the wires (or lugs) to the bus bar. Your meter should read 220 volts if the electricity coming in is functioing properly. It is not unusual for 'the bugs' used to connect wires from the utility poles to seperate in cold and stormy weather.

The voltage coming into your breaker box will tell that tale with a meter as I described.

This could be different if the 'house' is a trailer. There is usually a main breaker box used as a disconnect to the main residence. It is outside usually under the utility meter. Checking there as you would the breaker box inside the house using the same procedure I explained earlier will also tell the tale.

Keep in mind that nuetral bars and ground bars are seperated in secondary breaker boxes. Good electricians also do this on main breaker boxes.

Again, my prayers are with you both. PLEASE be extremely careful if you undertake this problem on your own. You certainly don't need any more tragedies.

[Seanachie]

Another scenario is thus: Your main breaker in the breaker box, (usually 200 amps or 150 amps, can be lower in some circumstances) should feed both sides of the buss barr. Easy enough to check if the power coming in is 220 volts. Put one lead from your hand meter to the screw on a breaker and the other lead to the nuetral bar. You should get a 110 volt reading. Do this on both sides. And make sure the breakers are in the 'ON' position. It is very unusual for the 'Main' breaker to malfunction. It can and does happen at times though. 2 pole breakers. single throw (usually for 220 volt electric stoves, well pumps. Ac etc. are a bit more difficult to explain but the same concept applies, just with different voltage.

[itsrea]

Where to start? Trace the circuit wire right to the breaker box. Check to make sure the nuetral wire (White) is still snugly attached to the Nuetral bar. If the circuit runs under into the crawl space...check to see if the wire has been broken. Sometimes critters eat through the wire and short it.

That's the obvious stuff. Knowing where that wire circuit goes to (1st outlet) is where to start. If it's dead there, then it's between the circuit breaker and the 1st outlet.

You need a meter for this to investigate further. The meter should be able to test continuity. Ideal makes one, costs about 40..45 bucks. The counter guy at an elctrical supply house can show you how it's done with a piece of wire.

I'll try to explain: Disconnect the Hot wire from the breaker. Usually black in color but can be red if a 12-3 or 14-3 was used. (12 and 14 are guages of wire) Red AND black hot wires are wired into seperate breakers. The 1st outlet should tell the tale by counting the wires coming into the outlet box and continuing out to the next box. Disconnect the nuetral wire at the breaker box (White) from the nuetral bar. Disconnect the hot wire (Black or Red) from the outlet (Usually on a GOLD or Brass colored screw or stabbed into the back of the outlet. Disconect the nuetral wire from the outlet (Silver screw). Now you have two loose wires at the breaker box and at the outlet box.

It takes two people to do this next step. While one person holds the Hot and Nuetral together the other holds the leads of the meter to the nuetral wire (White) and to the Black or Red (Hot) wire.

An Ideal meter has a red light that will come on when the wires are touched together. It will go out when the wires are seperated. The red light will indicate if there is a break between the two places if it DOES NOT come on. Then you continue on to the next outlet till you find the what's causing lack of continuity if necessary.

Keep in mind that only an Electrician should be doing this unless someone has enough experience to run the test.

You could be checking one breaker when there may be two if 12-3 or 14-3 was used to run two seperate circuits. The nuetral wire is used for both circuits. Keep in mind that there is a bare copper wire that is used for grounding So you would actually have four wires in a 14-3 or 12-3 wire.

Same is true for 12-2 0r 14-2. The bare copper wire is not counted while there are three wires nonetheless. Black, White and bare copper.

I'll keep You and Rick in my prayers that the Good Lord bless You both in solving this problem or sends someone that can help.

Be well Lady and remember that working with electricity is dangerous business and should NOT be messed with without expertise.

PS: There are heavier guages of wire used for dryer/stove/ outlets. Well pumps/AC/Heaters etc . The guages of wire I mentioned are usually used for light outlets (14-2 or 14-3). 12-2 or 12-3 are generally used for plug in outlets. This is all general knowledge and there are exceptions to either rule depending on the load of a circuit. 15 amp breakers are usually used on 14 wire and 20 amp breakers on 12 wire. The amp breakers need to correspond to the size of the wire AND the load. Interchanging them; ie: a 20 amp to a 15 amp is a BIG no-no and could cause a fire or damage appliances.

PS: BE DARN careful no matter what. This is NOT to be MESSED with if you don't have the knowledge and knowhow!LOL Sean.. we've had two electricians out and a third waiting for the snow to stop so he can get up here.. AFTER we did the breaker flipping things the electricians did that and MUCH more...

:((

p.s. the first electrician changed the wires back after we'd tried changing out the boxes... luckily we'd only changed the same for same...

:eh:

[itsrea]

Tonight I will offer my prayers to our Savior to PLEASE, PLEASE help you through this. I can't imagine the stress that you both must be under and if it was at all possible to FedEx our local electrician to you I would.

Our family will from time to time will send out different prayers that they have been given, have found or have heard. I am not as eloquent or articulate as some...so I offer this prayer to our Savior that was given to me by a friend!

Lord God...
As somebody so beautifully put it, 'friends are the family we choose for ourselves'. In a world where everything seems so unstable and brother turns against brother, there is nothing more comforting than the thought of having faithful friends who are always ready to offer us their help and support.

You taught us, Lord, to love one another as you had loved us and that there is no greater love for a man than to give his life for his friends. Through your life and personal example you gave us a lesson on what true friendship means. Help us follow you and be good friends to our friends. Fill us with your Holy Spirit, so that we can find the right words to pray for them and to thank you for bringing them in our lives.

And as we pray, from the depth of our heart and mind, we say to you: Lord God, watch over my friends. Protect them from all evil and harm and never leave them when they are in need as they have never left me when I was in need. Be their helper and comforter as they have been my helpers and comforters in times of trouble.

Never let any of their prayers return from you unanswered. Never let them feel the sting of loneliness or the bitterness of despair. When hope is gone, bring it back to them. When faith is lost, restore it and make it ten times stronger. When they face challenges, hold them by hand and bear their burdens all along the way. Let them feel the power of your unchanged love renewed with every step they take.

Work in their lives. Be strong in their hearts. Heal their bodies and souls and help them make the best of this life as they prepare for eternity. Reveal to them the beauty of your creation and the miracle of your love. Give them a faith so strong that it can move mountains. And as they acknowledge you in their lives, come and sit at their table and dine with them. Make room for them in your eternal kingdom and keep their candle burning until the end of times.

Amen...

God Bless....Thank you

[itsrea]

A good foot and a half of fresh powder most places, out by the dish where I had to wade to brush it off the snow is now up to my knees.

Amid many tears I got the tree up yesterday.. electric or no we decided we needed to do this for ourselves and for our company... Rick's idea of 'we' getting the tree up was to sit hunched over playing solitaire while I cried in the living room.

I got as far as getting it up and then went to bed.

Just went to bed and stayed there till it was time to cook dinner.. we waded through dinner without it tasting much, did the dishes and tried to not think.




This morning I decorated it and a little of the house.. at least it will seem festive to our guests Christmas even if we are having problems holding it together...

Which we ARE doing better at today.. I'm still having my moments but if Rick stays away from the news on TV (or keeps the volumn down), doesn't yell too loud, and if I keep busy, aren't as bad as they are yesterday.

Thank you all, for advice and for prayers and for encouragement.. Rick says we WILL get through this, but getting through something has never been enough for me.

[Seanachie]

My prayers are with You and Rick and with the 'Big Guy' to light up that tree that celebrates his Son's Birthday. Harnessed Electricity has only been around for just over a century. I'm sure the Good Lord could 'see' those trees long before modern lighting. He will be pleased either way methinks.

Don't let this stress you or fret you. The half package you have is much better than having no package at all. The necessities are the main thing. To have power supplying just that keeps you warm and your food preserved in the fridge. I am indeed thankful that you have that. And you will have a white Christmas thrown in! Some folks will never see that in their lifetimes.

Be thankful Lady. The Good Lord is smiling down upon you, even if he may have one eye closed.

[Seanachie]

Just one thing that bugs me in reading your descriptions. The 'boxes' and by that I conjecture you mean 'outlet boxes'. Those boxes should be secured to a house stud and not movable. There is an exeption. If an outlet box was secured with 'Madison Bars' and not a stud they can still be loosened when playing around with the box and the 'bars'. If the outlet boxes are NOT secured; it IS a problem. Easily corrected if need be. But it should never happen in the 1st place. Don't mean to burden you. Just trying to get some peace of mind myself about your situation.

[Seanachie]

Another cheap (less than ten bucks) 'meter' is one avalable at any Home Depot or Electrical supply House. This 'meter' plugs into an outlet and tells you by the lights that light up if your problem is an open ground, open nuetral, etc.

They are simple to read and it tells in good description if you have a problem with the way an outlet is wired.

There is also the same type of plug in 'meter' for GFIC oulets that are usually in your bathroom, kitchen and near doors that become 'wet' locations at times. This one has a button you can press that will trip the 'breaker' in the GFIC so you know it's not faulty. If the circuits you speak of are wired through a GFIC and it is tripped (the GFIC); all the outlets further down the line (wired in tandem with the GFIC) will also have no power. Check those to make sure they are all in working order. Something as simple as that could cause the problems you are having. Reseting the GFIC can solve the problem as will replacing it with a new one. They do sometimes go bad.

[jwil59]

A good foot and a half of fresh powder most places, out by the dish where I had to wade to brush it off the snow is now up to my knees.

Amid many tears I got the tree up yesterday.. electric or no we decided we needed to do this for ourselves and for our company... Rick's idea of 'we' getting the tree up was to sit hunched over playing solitaire while I cried in the living room.

I got as far as getting it up and then went to bed.

Just went to bed and stayed there till it was time to cook dinner.. we waded through dinner without it tasting much, did the dishes and tried to not think.




This morning I decorated it and a little of the house.. at least it will seem festive to our guests Christmas even if we are having problems holding it together...

Which we ARE doing better at today.. I'm still having my moments but if Rick stays away from the news on TV (or keeps the volumn down), doesn't yell too loud, and if I keep busy, aren't as bad as they are yesterday.

Thank you all, for advice and for prayers and for encouragement.. Rick says we WILL get through this, but getting through something has never been enough for me.

Sometimes all you can do is get through sis. I am praying for you guys.

You have to keep hanging tough Rea, I know you will. Hang to the promises He gives you

[itsrea]

:hug: hi everyone :hug: A short break on the extension cord..

I just shoveled a three (well maybe it's two feet) path out to the firepit because Rick is tired of shoveling snow and decided to dump the ashes from the wood stove next to the deck.. where (I claim and he denies) the wind could blow hot coals up under the deck.. when I was all done I thought it would be fun to make a snow angel out there where the snow is so pristine that it looks blue, so I fell over backwards into the snow and started fanning my arms.. which (I guess) my two over 75 pound dogs thought was either an invitation or a move for help so they both jumped off the deck, clearrrrr through the air, landing directly on me, pushing me a good foot into the snow.. I started yelling at them to stop! stop! but I guess they thought it was fun and started using me as a spring board.. off mom into the snow, turn around, jump onto mom and off mom into the snow on the other side of mom - one dog going one way, the other going the other way...

So I start yelling for Rick, who is over in the wood shed, chopping wood, to call the dogs.. and Rick (being a man) yells back WHY? And I say cause the dogs won't get off me! and he yells back (being a man) why are the dogs on you? And I'm yelling back (all the while the dogs are continuing to use me for a springboard) CALL THE DAMNED DOGS Rick!!!!!!! before they hurt me! And he yells back (being a man) where are you?

And I yell back CALL THE DAMNED DOGS RICK !!!!!!!!

And he yells back (being a man) WHY? They look like they're having fun!

And I yell back cause they are trying to kill me - call the damned dogs over to you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


Which he does not do.

Granted my calls/yells to him might be a bit muffled, but what he DOES do is he staggers through half an acre of yard in two feet powder that covers the whole back part of our property till he can see me (me, now over a foot buried in snow) STILL being used as a springboard by these elephants and what does he do???? He bends over laughing and slapping his knees with tears running down his face.

Whereby I start doing what any good little Christian wife would do.. I start cussing at him too. Which makes the buttface laugh even harder. Every time he tries to tell the dogs to stop he starts laughing again.. finally he is able to talk and instead of yelling at the dogs (who are STILL JUMPING ON AND OFF OF ME) gasps out: did you fall down in there?

I am STILL pushing on dogs, trying to roll over, and STILL being jumped on by these behemoths, STILL trying to get out of the hole, yelling at the dogs, cussing at Rick, and by now I am wet through and through with snow, snow which has begun to pack down my neck and into my snow boots, and down my mitts, and HE WANTS TO CARRY ON A CONVERSATION WITH ME ABOUT HOW I GOT THERE???????
:eh: :doh:

Lord, save me from men, pleaseeeeeeeeee.

:snooty:



:clap:Rick broke down and hired a guy to come plow the road, drive and a path to the woodshed... we can actually see bare gound in some spots and I could not believe the amount of snow that guy picked up and dumped off to the side.. hopefully we can keep up with it all now.

:clap:

We have an electrician coming tomorrow that is supposed to know what he's doing - I'm hoping he brings supplies cause there is nowhere around here to buy the kinds of breaker boxes that are in the panel, and nowhere to buy the connectors used to connect the three units of this manufactured home.

:pray: Pray God lay His hands on our home and our repairman please.

[birdonawire]

God bless you Rea! :hug:

I laughed so hard when I read this I have tears running down my face! :lol:

This would happen to me! :lol:

[rhet 2]

:hug: hi everyone :hug: A short break on the extension cord..

I just shoveled a three (well maybe it's two feet) path out to the firepit because Rick is tired of shoveling snow and decided to dump the ashes from the wood stove next to the deck.. where (I claim and he denies) the wind could blow hot coals up under the deck.. when I was all done I thought it would be fun to make a snow angel out there where the snow is so pristine that it looks blue, so I fell over backwards into the snow and started fanning my arms.. which (I guess) my two over 75 pound dogs thought was either an invitation or a move for help so they both jumped off the deck, clearrrrr through the air, landing directly on me, pushing me a good foot into the snow.. I started yelling at them to stop! stop! but I guess they thought it was fun and started using me as a spring board.. off mom into the snow, turn around, jump onto mom and off mom into the snow on the other side of mom - one dog going one way, the other going the other way...

So I start yelling for Rick, who is over in the wood shed, chopping wood, to call the dogs.. and Rick (being a man) yells back WHY? And I say cause the dogs won't get off me! and he yells back (being a man) why are the dogs on you? And I'm yelling back (all the while the dogs are continuing to use me for a springboard) CALL THE DAMNED DOGS Rick!!!!!!! before they hurt me! And he yells back (being a man) where are you?

And I yell back CALL THE DAMNED DOGS RICK !!!!!!!!

And he yells back (being a man) WHY? They look like they're having fun!

And I yell back cause they are trying to kill me - call the damned dogs over to you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


Which he does not do.

Granted my calls/yells to him might be a bit muffled, but what he DOES do is he staggers through half an acre of yard in two feet powder that covers the whole back part of our property till he can see me (me, now over a foot buried in snow) STILL being used as a springboard by these elephants and what does he do???? He bends over laughing and slapping his knees with tears running down his face.

Whereby I start doing what any good little Christian wife would do.. I start cussing at him too. Which makes the buttface laugh even harder. Every time he tries to tell the dogs to stop he starts laughing again.. finally he is able to talk and instead of yelling at the dogs (who are STILL JUMPING ON AND OFF OF ME) gasps out: did you fall down in there?

I am STILL pushing on dogs, trying to roll over, and STILL being jumped on by these behemoths, STILL trying to get out of the hole, yelling at the dogs, cussing at Rick, and by now I am wet through and through with snow, snow which has begun to pack down my neck and into my snow boots, and down my mitts, and HE WANTS TO CARRY ON A CONVERSATION WITH ME ABOUT HOW I GOT THERE???????
:eh: :doh:

Lord, save me from men, pleaseeeeeeeeee.

:snooty:



:clap:Rick broke down and hired a guy to come plow the road, drive and a path to the woodshed... we can actually see bare gound in some spots and I could not believe the amount of snow that guy picked up and dumped off to the side.. hopefully we can keep up with it all now.

:clap:

We have an electrician coming tomorrow that is supposed to know what he's doing - I'm hoping he brings supplies cause there is nowhere around here to buy the kinds of breaker boxes that are in the panel, and nowhere to buy the connectors used to connect the three units of this manufactured home.

:pray: Pray God lay His hands on our home and our repairman please.

:)) Laughter is the best medicine of all.

And I'm praying for that repairman, yes, indeed!

God give His angels watch over your home and all your family, to walk in safety and joy and love for one another. :pray:

[itsrea]

God bless you Rea! :hug:

I laughed so hard when I read this I have tears running down my face! :lol:

This would happen to me! :lol::naughty:

[birdonawire]

:naughty:

I'm sorry I am one of those people who laugh at you when you fall down and then help you up! :lol: :hug:

[itsrea]

:)) Laughter is the best medicine of all.

And I'm praying for that repairman, yes, indeed!

God give His angels watch over your home and all your family, to walk in safety and joy and love for one another. :pray:I told Rick he needs to walk around our home seven times, praying as he does, then lay hands on the house - he's still looking at me like I'm a nutjob and I can't tell if it's the seven times thing or the fact that the house is surrounded by about six feet of snow (3 feet of snow fall and what keeps coming off the roof)

:))

[itsrea]

I'm sorry I am one of those people who laugh at you when you fall down and then help you up! :lol: :hug::hug:no need to apologize... I knew you weren't being unkind :hug:

[Seanachie]

Hilarious Stuff!!! (From a guy's point of view) LOL LOL LOL

Here's the $64,000 question. What was the gender of the (PLAYFUL attack) dogs????????

Levity has its place! And this levity nearly levitated me off my chair! The power of Levitation would have helped here! LOL

Thanks for a 'wonderful' story. Just what the Doctor of (unrestrained) humor ordered!

From a Guy's point of view anyways! LOL

PS: If the 7 circular trips and 'laying' of hands doesn't work; call in the He-Be-Gee-Be Men from Haiti. I've heard they are wonderful in lifting 'curses' off most anything and they look great in that Top-Hat. From a Guy's point of view anyways!

Anyways, I pray that God Bless your repair Man/Woman and God appreciates such good humor and Blesses you both.

[birdonawire]

:hug:no need to apologize... I knew you weren't being unkind :hug:

I have a 65 pound pup that would have done the same thing to me. :lol:

[Seanachie]

I am STILL pushing on dogs, trying to roll over, and STILL being jumped on by these behemoths, STILL trying to get out of the hole, yelling at the dogs, cussing at Rick, and by now I am wet through and through with snow, snow which has begun to pack down my neck and into my snow boots, and down my mitts, and

After re-reading this wonderful post. Something occured to me:

Perhaps those fiesty creatures recalled the 'tricks' most every dog owner teaches; 'Roll Over'. Maybe they just figured you couldn't do the Rollover trick and tried to keep at it with you until you could perform the very same 'trick' they learned or know. ( I think it's bred in and teaching them isn't necessary. I think they know the 'trick' through instinct).

That must have been it! Yep! Makes perfect sense! See how logical we 'Men' can be when pressed for a viable explanation?

Forgive the silliness. Your post had me in stictches twice, 'To be sure'...'To be sure'... as we Irish like to put 'double checking' things out. I'm quite sure you have two fingers that would easily agree with that philosophy emphatically. LOL

[rhet 2]

I told Rick he needs to walk around our home seven times, praying as he does, then lay hands on the house - he's still looking at me like I'm a nutjob and I can't tell if it's the seven times thing or the fact that the house is surrounded by about six feet of snow (3 feet of snow fall and what keeps coming off the roof)

:))

:))

I've told the Bear to go walk around the bank seven times, tooting a trumpet.

But the snow's even better. :))

[USMCmom]

:hug: hi everyone :hug: A short break on the extension cord..

I just shoveled a three (well maybe it's two feet) path out to the firepit because Rick is tired of shoveling snow and decided to dump the ashes from the wood stove next to the deck.. where (I claim and he denies) the wind could blow hot coals up under the deck.. when I was all done I thought it would be fun to make a snow angel out there where the snow is so pristine that it looks blue, so I fell over backwards into the snow and started fanning my arms.. which (I guess) my two over 75 pound dogs thought was either an invitation or a move for help so they both jumped off the deck, clearrrrr through the air, landing directly on me, pushing me a good foot into the snow.. I started yelling at them to stop! stop! but I guess they thought it was fun and started using me as a spring board.. off mom into the snow, turn around, jump onto mom and off mom into the snow on the other side of mom - one dog going one way, the other going the other way...

So I start yelling for Rick, who is over in the wood shed, chopping wood, to call the dogs.. and Rick (being a man) yells back WHY? And I say cause the dogs won't get off me! and he yells back (being a man) why are the dogs on you? And I'm yelling back (all the while the dogs are continuing to use me for a springboard) CALL THE DAMNED DOGS Rick!!!!!!! before they hurt me! And he yells back (being a man) where are you?

And I yell back CALL THE DAMNED DOGS RICK !!!!!!!!

And he yells back (being a man) WHY? They look like they're having fun!

And I yell back cause they are trying to kill me - call the damned dogs over to you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


Which he does not do.

Granted my calls/yells to him might be a bit muffled, but what he DOES do is he staggers through half an acre of yard in two feet powder that covers the whole back part of our property till he can see me (me, now over a foot buried in snow) STILL being used as a springboard by these elephants and what does he do???? He bends over laughing and slapping his knees with tears running down his face.

Whereby I start doing what any good little Christian wife would do.. I start cussing at him too. Which makes the buttface laugh even harder. Every time he tries to tell the dogs to stop he starts laughing again.. finally he is able to talk and instead of yelling at the dogs (who are STILL JUMPING ON AND OFF OF ME) gasps out: did you fall down in there?

I am STILL pushing on dogs, trying to roll over, and STILL being jumped on by these behemoths, STILL trying to get out of the hole, yelling at the dogs, cussing at Rick, and by now I am wet through and through with snow, snow which has begun to pack down my neck and into my snow boots, and down my mitts, and HE WANTS TO CARRY ON A CONVERSATION WITH ME ABOUT HOW I GOT THERE???????
:eh: :doh:

Lord, save me from men, pleaseeeeeeeeee.

:snooty:



:clap:Rick broke down and hired a guy to come plow the road, drive and a path to the woodshed... we can actually see bare gound in some spots and I could not believe the amount of snow that guy picked up and dumped off to the side.. hopefully we can keep up with it all now.

:clap:

We have an electrician coming tomorrow that is supposed to know what he's doing - I'm hoping he brings supplies cause there is nowhere around here to buy the kinds of breaker boxes that are in the panel, and nowhere to buy the connectors used to connect the three units of this manufactured home.

:pray: Pray God lay His hands on our home and our repairman please.

I so needed to read this...that was FUNNY!!! Am glad that you are ok and that Rick ummm....well that Rick....hmmmm!!! Oh, that Rick was able to get your drive plowed...:dance:

Have a wonderful day my friend...
Merry Christmas & please careful when doing anymore snow angels!:hug:

[itsrea]

If there ever was a time we needed to hear that God knew Zack might make the choices he did and that we would need Him to lean on very heavily, it was tonight, this first Christmas Eve without Zack - if ever Rick needed to hear that God started waaay back in April surrounding him with His love and His family, it was tonight was we tried to keep the Spirit of Christmas in our hearts.. If there ever was a time we needed to hear that if we are tired and frustrated and fearful we are attempting to live OUR plan and not God's plan it was tonight as we attempted to prepare for 10 guests with only one light because that last electrician couldn't fix the problem either.. and snow falling pretty heavily, possibly cramping our Christmas dinner celebration.

And all messages were presented to us tonight as we watched Rick Warren give his Christmas Eve Sermon..

We thank you Lord, for reminding us that you are ever faithful in your love for us even if we do not always remember to turn to you first.

In the coming year my prayer for each of you is that God teach each of us to turn to him FIRST, no matter what we come across.


Merry Christmas Everyone!

[rhet 2]

If there ever was a time we needed to hear that God knew Zack might make the choices he did and that we would need Him to lean on very heavily, it was tonight, this first Christmas Eve without Zack - if ever Rick needed to hear that God started waaay back in April surrounding him with His love and His family, it was tonight was we tried to keep the Spirit of Christmas in our hearts.. If there ever was a time we needed to hear that if we are tired and frustrated and fearful we are attempting to live OUR plan and not God's plan it was tonight as we attempted to prepare for 10 guests with only one light because that last electrician couldn't fix the problem either.. and snow falling pretty heavily, possibly cramping our Christmas dinner celebration.

And all messages were presented to us tonight as we watched Rick Warren give his Christmas Eve Sermon..

We thank you Lord, for reminding us that you are ever faithful in your love for us even if we do not always remember to turn to you first.

In the coming year my prayer for each of you is that God teach each of us to turn to him FIRST, no matter what we come across.


Merry Christmas Everyone!



Precisely so.

I too have been fighting a heavy spirit this Christmas -- not so heavy a cause as what you and Rick carry, though.

I weep that your cross is so heavy right now.

And thank you for the words of wise encouragement. I did need them very badly this evening.

Truly, His Love is the only thing worth holding onto in this weary tired old world we're stuck in. For in His Perfect Love we find the strength and courage to love others and keep on muddling through dark and dreary trials to find the Way which is the only Way to Life and to the Truth which is Christ Jesus our LORD.

In your courage and faithful endurance I find cause to endure myself.

And I do most sincerely join you in that prayer for each and every one of us.

May the Sun of His Perfect Provision of your every need shine upon you and Rick when the dawn of this Christmas Morn breaks above your heads. :hug:

[Seanachie]

Precisely so.

I too have been fighting a heavy spirit this Christmas -- not so heavy a cause as what you and Rick carry, though.

I weep that your cross is so heavy right now.

And thank you for the words of wise encouragement. I did need them very badly this evening.

Truly, His Love is the only thing worth holding onto in this weary tired old world we're stuck in. For in His Perfect Love we find the strength and courage to love others and keep on muddling through dark and dreary trials to find the Way which is the only Way to Life and to the Truth which is Christ Jesus our LORD.

In your courage and faithful endurance I find cause to endure myself.

And I do most sincerely join you in that prayer for each and every one of us.

May the Sun of His Perfect Provision of your every need shine upon you and Rick when the dawn of this Christmas Morn breaks above your heads. :hug:

Rhet said a whole lot better than I am capable of. I share her sentiments. Finding Joy this year is a tough deal. It is there though if you look deep and hard enough. I wish You and your Family a heaping of Joy to help you along on your way.

[itsrea]

Precisely so.

I too have been fighting a heavy spirit this Christmas -- not so heavy a cause as what you and Rick carry, though.

I weep that your cross is so heavy right now.

And thank you for the words of wise encouragement. I did need them very badly this evening.

Truly, His Love is the only thing worth holding onto in this weary tired old world we're stuck in. For in His Perfect Love we find the strength and courage to love others and keep on muddling through dark and dreary trials to find the Way which is the only Way to Life and to the Truth which is Christ Jesus our LORD.

In your courage and faithful endurance I find cause to endure myself.

And I do most sincerely join you in that prayer for each and every one of us.

May the Sun of His Perfect Provision of your every need shine upon you and Rick when the dawn of this Christmas Morn breaks above your heads. :hug::hug: thank you my friend :hug:

[itsrea]

Rhet said a whole lot better than I am capable of. I share her sentiments. Finding Joy this year is a tough deal. It is there though if you look deep and hard enough. I wish You and your Family a heaping of Joy to help you along on your way.Thank you Sean.

[itsrea]

Only one couple was unable to make it yesterday - their carport collapsed onto their small truck, and although the plan was for us to transport them they wanted to stay home and watch to see if the snow collapsed any more thier structures.

We had a wonderful, laughter filled, companionable Christmas folks! One family had to literally cut downed trees out of their way (on public roads) as they made it down off their mountain, and then they took dinner to four other families before showing up here.. dinners they cooked hooked up to their generator because they lost power the evening before. I couldn't believe they'd go to all that trouble when they themselves were without electric but they showed up here full of laughter and news and fun... Rick drove down and transported the new Pastor and his wife, who are just everyday people that filled our conversation with laughter and fun too.. after dinner my friend/Sunday School teacher pulled chairs around the kitchen table while the kids hooked up some game to our TV (that was hooked up to a extension cord) and we sat and chatted and laughed and discussed faith and religion and scriptures, and it was just THEE best day ever!

We are going to try to get some of the snow off the roof today - or I should say Rick is going to - he won't let me up on the roof, so I sit and pray instead.

I hope that with the heartaches so many of us are experiencing that yesterday was a rich for you as it was for me, and that you are able to let that richness pour over into the coming days as it nourishes each of you in spirit and in health and in strength.

hugs,
Rea

[rhet 2]

Only one couple was unable to make it yesterday - their carport collapsed onto their small truck, and although the plan was for us to transport them they wanted to stay home and watch to see if the snow collapsed any more thier structures.

We had a wonderful, laughter filled, companionable Christmas folks! One family had to literally cut downed trees out of their way (on public roads) as they made it down off their mountain, and then they took dinner to four other families before showing up here.. dinners they cooked hooked up to their generator because they lost power the evening before. I couldn't believe they'd go to all that trouble when they themselves were without electric but they showed up here full of laughter and news and fun... Rick drove down and transported the new Pastor and his wife, who are just everyday people that filled our conversation with laughter and fun too.. after dinner my friend/Sunday School teacher pulled chairs around the kitchen table while the kids hooked up some game to our TV (that was hooked up to a extension cord) and we sat and chatted and laughed and discussed faith and religion and scriptures, and it was just THEE best day ever!

We are going to try to get some of the snow off the roof today - or I should say Rick is going to - he won't let me up on the roof, so I sit and pray instead.

I hope that with all our heartaches that yesterday was a rich for you as it was for me, and that your are able to let that richness pour over into the coming days as it nourishes each of you in spirit and in health and in strength.

hugs,
Rea

Oh, I pray he doesn't fall! And if he does, it's into a nice high pile of soft gentle snow, like a feather falling on a pillow full of goose down.

BTW: have the dogs alerted to go help him make his own snow angels, IF, God forbid, he gets that opportunity.

I'm thrilled you had so good a day. And God bless the generosity of such careful neighbors -- and be with the poor folks with the carport roof that no other structures should be in such danger.

[itsrea]

Well folks if this hasn't been one hell of a year I don't know what has been - goodness and heartbreak seemed to just follow on each others heels till I wasn't sure where life was headed sometimes.. but here we are, the last day of the year. I don't know if people are right, if we truly are in the last days, but I DO know that the Lord is requiring of Rick things He never did of me this soon into what was 40+ years ago my new walk... and I DO know that Rick is not intimidated by the need to learn fast. He says sometimes the sermons seemed aimed directly at him and I told him that if he goes with a open heart something in every sermom will feel that way - it is truly remarkable to see what's happening to him and I am blessed to be a part of it.

I am also blessed to have found each and every one of you and as we head into the year 2009 I wish to take this moment to thank you for your support, for your prayers, and for your committment to standing by me as life drug out some pretty painful experiences. You have helped me do more then just get through 2008, you have helped me come out on top in more ways then I can even begin to enumerate. We still have a ways to go - this loss of Zack is truly unbearable at times, but we both know that with the Lord's help we will be able to get through this, too.

And I know that with the Lord's help each of you will also get through what life is handing you.

:hug: Hanging together in the Lord is the BEST place to be my friends, and I'm am truly blessed that it's you I hang with :hug:

Happy New Year one and all.

[USMCmom]

Well folks if this hasn't been one hell of a year I don't know what has been - goodness and heartbreak seemed to just follow on each others heals till I wasn't sure where life was headed sometimes.. but here we are, the last day of the year. I don't know if people are right, if we truly are in the last days, but I DO know that the Lord is requiring of Rick things He never did of me this soon into my new walk... and I DO know that Rick is not intimidated by the need to learn fast. He says sometimes the sermons seemed aimed directly at him and I told him that if he goes with a open heart something in every sermom will feel that way - it is truly remarkable to see what's happening to him and I am blessed to be a part of it.

I am also blessed to have found each and every one of you and as we head into the year 2009 I wish to take this moment to thank you for your support, for your prayers, and for your committment to standing by me as life drug out some pretty painful experiences. You have helped me do more then just get through 2008, you have helped me come out on top in more ways then I can even begin to enumerate. We still have a ways to go - this loss of Zack is truly unbearable at times, but we both know that with the Lord's help we will be able to get through this, too.

And I know that with the Lord's help each of you will also get through what life is handing you.

:hug: Hanging together in the Lord is the BEST place to be my friends, and I'm am truly blessed that it's you I hang with :hug:

Happy New Year one and all.

Happy New Year to you to Rea...without you and others in here I would have been lost!:frown: Like you I too feel very blessed and will keep you & yours in my prayers for the coming new year!
God Bless....:hug:

[rhet 2]

Happy New Year to you to Rea...without you and others in here I would have been lost!:frown: Like you I too feel very blessed and will keep you & yours in my prayers for the coming new year!
God Bless....:hug:


It has been a "mell of a hess" of a year, as my grandmother would have said.

I pray the LORD bless each and every one of us throughout 2009, giving us a far greater cause for thanksgiving than we've had this past one.

May He deliver our poor nation and give us the wisdom and grace required to restore peace and justice and prosperity, not just for ourselves, but for all men of good will across the globe.

[itsrea]

Happy New Year to you to Rea...without you and others in here I would have been lost!:frown: Like you I too feel very blessed and will keep you & yours in my prayers for the coming new year!
God Bless....:hug:Thank you so much :hug: USMC :hug:, for the kindnesses and encouragement you have shown me :)

[itsrea]

It has been a "mell of a hess" of a year, as my grandmother would have said.

I pray the LORD bless each and every one of us throughout 2009, giving us a far greater cause for thanksgiving than we've had this past one.

May He deliver our poor nation and give us the wisdom and grace required to restore peace and justice and prosperity, not just for ourselves, but for all men of good will across the globe.As we said our breakfast prayer this morning I felt some shame - are we not to praise God for what we think of as 'thee bad' the same as we are to praise Him for the good? And I have not once, not once, found it within myself to pray a thank you for the losses, for near losses, for the trouble, heartache and unhealed injuries to relationships. Not once Rhet did I say thank you Lord for being my Lord during the awful times. I thanked Him for resolutions but not for the hard times and I sit here and ask myself am I required to 'find it within myself before saying thank you Lord? No, I am not. I am simply to DO it. Period.

It is, after all, not about the happiness we seek here on earth but about our relationship with God. I think we think that if we do not obey in these areas of thanking for strife that we are protecting ourselves from having to be thankful in a worse situation and you and I already experienced just how successful THAT ploy is, hunh?

So another prayer I will pray for us in the year 2009 (beginning now as we close out 2008) is the prayer of obedience - that we will remember at all times what we are supposed to do and that we will DO it whether we FEEL like it or not.

:hug: I thank YOU for your fellowship my friend, for you steadfast support, and for your advice and kindnesses. :hug:

[rhet 2]

As we said our breakfast prayer this morning I felt some shame - are we not to praise God for what we think of as 'thee bad' the same as we are to praise Him for the good? And I have not once, not once, found it within myself to pray a thank you for the losses, for near losses, for the trouble, heartache and unhealed injuries to relationships. Not once Rhet did I say thank you Lord for being my Lord during the awful times. I thanked Him for resolutions but not for the hard times and I sit here and ask myself am I required to 'find it within myself before saying thank you Lord? No, I am not. I am simply to DO it. Period.

It is, after all, not about the happiness we seek here on earth but about our relationship with God. I think we think that if we do not obey in these areas of thanking for strife that we are protecting ourselves from having to be thankful in a worse situation and you and I already experienced just how successful THAT ploy is, hunh?

So another prayer I will pray for us in the year 2009 (beginning now as we close out 2008) is the prayer of obedience - that we will remember at all times what we are supposed to do and that we will DO it whether we FEEL like it or not.

:hug: I thank YOU for your fellowship my friend, for you steadfast support, and for your advice and kindnesses. :hug:

This is true: "In all things, give thanks for this is the will of God concerning you."

A whole lot easier said than done, but needful.

And I've gotten as good and better than I've given, dear friend. Much better. For which I am totally grateful.

Endurance -- and the ability to rejoice in the tough as well as in the easy -- that is what friendship such as yours has given so many of us. :hug:

[itsrea]

This is true: "In all things, give thanks for this is the will of God concerning you."

A whole lot easier said than done, but needful.

And I've gotten as good and better than I've given, dear friend. Much better. For which I am totally grateful.

Endurance -- and the ability to rejoice in the tough as well as in the easy -- that is what friendship such as yours has given so many of us. :hug:If you're going to make me cry I'm going to have to send you to your room!

[rhet 2]

If you're going to make me cry I'm going to have to send you to your room!

But, Ma! You told me never to tell lies!

Just telling the truth, dear one. Nothing but the truth.

I'd have freaked out over the Bear, had you not helped glue my soul together with words of great wisdom and faith.

:hug:

[jwil59]

Well folks if this hasn't been one hell of a year I don't know what has been - goodness and heartbreak seemed to just follow on each others heels till I wasn't sure where life was headed sometimes.. but here we are, the last day of the year. I don't know if people are right, if we truly are in the last days, but I DO know that the Lord is requiring of Rick things He never did of me this soon into what was 40+ years ago my new walk... and I DO know that Rick is not intimidated by the need to learn fast. He says sometimes the sermons seemed aimed directly at him and I told him that if he goes with a open heart something in every sermom will feel that way - it is truly remarkable to see what's happening to him and I am blessed to be a part of it.

I am also blessed to have found each and every one of you and as we head into the year 2009 I wish to take this moment to thank you for your support, for your prayers, and for your committment to standing by me as life drug out some pretty painful experiences. You have helped me do more then just get through 2008, you have helped me come out on top in more ways then I can even begin to enumerate. We still have a ways to go - this loss of Zack is truly unbearable at times, but we both know that with the Lord's help we will be able to get through this, too.

And I know that with the Lord's help each of you will also get through what life is handing you.

:hug: Hanging together in the Lord is the BEST place to be my friends, and I'm am truly blessed that it's you I hang with :hug:

Happy New Year one and all.

Amen to that. Happy New Year back at ya

I pray 2009 will find us all grwoing in our relationship with Christ.

My prayers for you and Rick

[blazer]

Praying for you and Rick! Happy New Year! :hug:

[itsrea]

Corry called today, blessing her Grandpa to no end... I answered the phone and was asked if this was "Miss Rea" (the name Rick's grandchildren gave me when we started dating) and when I said yes, who I was told this is Corry.. I said ohh honey! Hi! How are you? then thought well THAT was a stupid thing to ask, but it seemed to help her relax and we visited for a couple of minutes before I handed the phone to her grandpa... they ended up laughing and teasing (Grandpa, who just had his 64th BD asked her if she knew how old he was now and she said 133 years). We are both so blessed that she called.

Thank you all for your prayers in this area!

[rhet 2]

Corry called today, blessing her Grandpa to no end... I answered the phone and was asked if this was "Miss Rea" (the name Rick's grandchildren gave me when we started dating) and when I said yes, who I was told this is Corry.. I said ohh honey! Hi! How are you? then thought well THAT was a stupid thing to ask, but it seemed to help her relax and we visited for a couple of minutes before I handed the phone to her grandpa... they ended up laughing and teasing (Grandpa, who just had his 64th BD asked her if she knew how old he was now and she said 133 years). We are both so blessed that she called.

Thank you all for your prayers in this area!

Oh, what wonderful news -- and on a day that has been so filled with sorrow, too. Now, I have thanks to give to the LORD above, to match the petitions for those who grieve and suffer. True thanksgiving to lighten heart and mind of my own.

My heart sings with joy for both you and Rick. What a blessing indeed! :clap:

[itsrea]

Today we have three dogs to care for - our two and one of our Sunday School teacher's - a year old golden lab mix.

My Sunday School teacher lost two children to Cystic Fibrosis.. nobody told her when her fourth child was diagnosed with it she should never concieve again, so she did, and that baby died at about six weeks.. her third child, David, died at the age of five years old (in 1978).

Today Netta is raising her grandson, who has Cystic Fibrosis too.. Netta and her husband and her grandson are stuck the other side of the pass (In Yakima) where her grandson had to have emergency surgery - we're waiting on word on how he is doing. So we have the dog that was at the kennel.

Please pray for this family.. I don't know much about CF but have the feeling that her grandson is in bad shape..

You know how you meet someone and NEVER get to know them, and you meet others and it's as if you've known them all your lives? That's how this family is for us, and us to them. We spent Thanksgiving with them - they were here for Christmas, her grandson hooked up my DVD player for me, plays his video games on my TV.. is a rowdy but good 14 year old - like his puppy, who won't give MY two dogs a minutes peace or rest lol.

[blazer]

praying for them!

[rhet 2]

Today we have three dogs to care for - our two and one of our Sunday School teacher's - a year old golden lab mix.

My Sunday School teacher lost two children to Cystic Fibrosis.. nobody told her when her fourth child was diagnosed with it she should never concieve again, so she did, and that baby died at about six weeks.. her third child, David, died at the age of five years old (in 1978).

Today Netta is raising her grandson, who has Cystic Fibrosis too.. Netta and her husband and her grandson are stuck the other side of the pass (In Yakima) where her grandson had to have emergency surgery - we're waiting on word on how he is doing. So we have the dog that was at the kennel.

Please pray for this family.. I don't know much about CF but have the feeling that her grandson is in bad shape..

You know how you meet someone and NEVER get to know them, and you meet others and it's as if you've known them all your lives? That's how this family is for us, and us to them. We spent Thanksgiving with them - they were here for Christmas, her grandson hooked up my DVD player for me, plays his video games on my TV.. is a rowdy but good 14 year old - like his puppy, who won't give MY two dogs a minutes peace or rest lol.

THAT bites. And bites hard.

And I'm not talking about the dogs.

I'm praying for the family, especially the child. May the Good LORD act to preserve life and hope and joy for them all! including the dog. And you.

:hug: and :pray:

[itsrea]

Thank you :hug: Blazer :hug: and :hug: Rhet :hug:

And you're right Rhet, it does BITE big time.

[blazer]

:hug:ty sis! you are welcome! :hug:

[birdonawire]

Ah....:frown:praying for those people. :pray:

[USMCmom]

Rea...am praying for them. I cannot imagine the heartache that this family has went through and I hope with all my heart that everything will turn out ok for them.
God Bless

[itsrea]

Well, here is the update:

They aren't in Yakima (Rick got confused), they're in Salt Lake City where they went for David's other Grandmother's funeral.

Although in a terrible amount of pain, and still in ICU because of the after-surgery problems that are expected due to the Cystic Fibrosis, David is up and walking around.

Netta said his SATS aren't all that good, that the lower lobes in both lungs had started to fill due to the anethesia and then being immobile after surgery, but they are better then what they COULD have been. Although he says he doesn't remember doing so, he had a breathing tube in but tore it out. He can only speak in a whisper due to that, and is angry and frustrated because of all this but I told Netta. "angry and frustrated is good!"

What happened was that his large intestine sucked his small intestine up inside of it - it's similiar to what is common in Cystic Fibrosis patients due to their digestive problems, but different too - essentially he was strangling to death from the inside and it is VERY painful. David asked to be let come home and have the surgery in Olympia (or Seattle?) at Childrens cause they knew him there but the dr told him we would be dead before he got here... and there is a possiblity (due to the Cystic Fibrosis) that it will happen again in the next few days, so Netta has no idea when they'll be home - she says they have put it in the Lord's hands and will leave it there....

So I ask that you continue to pray for this family, so far from home, please.

For those of you that want to know Netta's book (the one she wrote about losing her two children) is called "Mommy, Please let me go to heaven"... by Lonetta Miner. If it's not 'legal' for me to say that here let me know and I'll take it out.

Hugs all,
Rea

[blazer]

still praying! :hug:

[rhet 2]

Well, here is the update:

They aren't in Yakima (Rick got confused), they're in Salt Lake City where they went for David's other Grandmother's funeral.

Although in a terrible amount of pain, and still in ICU because of the after-surgery problems that are expected due to the Cystic Fibrosis, David is up and walking around.

Netta said his SATS aren't all that good, that the lower lobes in both lungs had started to fill due to the anethesia and then being immobile after surgery, but they are better then what they COULD have been. Although he says he doesn't remember doing so, he had a breathing tube in but tore it out. He can only speak in a whisper due to that, and is angry and frustrated because of all this but I told Netta. "angry and frustrated is good!"

What happened was that his large intestine sucked his small intestine up inside of it - it's similiar to what is common in Cystic Fibrosis patients due to their digestive problems, but different too - essentially he was strangling to death from the inside and it is VERY painful. David asked to be let come home and have the surgery in Olympia (or Seattle?) at Childrens cause they knew him there but the dr told him we would be dead before he got here... and there is a possiblity (due to the Cystic Fibrosis) that it will happen again in the next few days, so Netta has no idea when they'll be home - she says they have put it in the Lord's hands and will leave it there....

So I ask that you continue to pray for this family, so far from home, please.

For those of you that want to know Netta's book (the one she wrote about losing her two children) is called "Mommy, Please let me go to heaven"... by Lonetta Miner. If it's not 'legal' for me to say that here let me know and I'll take it out.

Hugs all,
Rea

I don't know why it wouldn't be "legal" and I shall certainly try to find the book.

Poor David! That sounds agonizing -- and to be so far from home at the same time!

I'm glad the surgery went okay -- but I will surely pray with all my heart that the LORD makes further medical crisis intervention unnecessary because He stops the crisis from developing with His own Will. And pray for rapid restoration of health and full mobility asap.

Thank you for the reference and for the update! :hug:

[itsrea]

I don't know why it wouldn't be "legal" and I shall certainly try to find the book.

Poor David! That sounds agonizing -- and to be so far from home at the same time!

I'm glad the surgery went okay -- but I will surely pray with all my heart that the LORD makes further medical crisis intervention unnecessary because He stops the crisis from developing with His own Will. And pray for rapid restoration of health and full mobility asap.

Thank you for the reference and for the update! :hug::hug: thank you my friend :hug: Please pray for Netta and her husband too, who are there in motels and eating out.. I'm not sure they can afford this if it lasts too long - and for David's great-grandmother - her health is not good this added stress is probably not sitting well with her - I'll call tomorrow to see that she is ok.

[itsrea]

still praying! :hug:thank you :hug: Blazer :hug:

[rhet 2]

:hug: thank you my friend :hug: Please pray for Netta and her husband too, who are there in motels and eating out.. I'm not sure they can afford this if it lasts too long - and for David's great-grandmother - her health is not good this added stress is probably not sitting well with her - I'll call tomorrow to see that she is ok.

You've got that right!

Praying am I. Yes, indeed.

[USMCmom]

Well, here is the update:

They aren't in Yakima (Rick got confused), they're in Salt Lake City where they went for David's other Grandmother's funeral.

Although in a terrible amount of pain, and still in ICU because of the after-surgery problems that are expected due to the Cystic Fibrosis, David is up and walking around.

Netta said his SATS aren't all that good, that the lower lobes in both lungs had started to fill due to the anethesia and then being immobile after surgery, but they are better then what they COULD have been. Although he says he doesn't remember doing so, he had a breathing tube in but tore it out. He can only speak in a whisper due to that, and is angry and frustrated because of all this but I told Netta. "angry and frustrated is good!"

What happened was that his large intestine sucked his small intestine up inside of it - it's similiar to what is common in Cystic Fibrosis patients due to their digestive problems, but different too - essentially he was strangling to death from the inside and it is VERY painful. David asked to be let come home and have the surgery in Olympia (or Seattle?) at Childrens cause they knew him there but the dr told him we would be dead before he got here... and there is a possiblity (due to the Cystic Fibrosis) that it will happen again in the next few days, so Netta has no idea when they'll be home - she says they have put it in the Lord's hands and will leave it there....

So I ask that you continue to pray for this family, so far from home, please.

For those of you that want to know Netta's book (the one she wrote about losing her two children) is called "Mommy, Please let me go to heaven"... by Lonetta Miner. If it's not 'legal' for me to say that here let me know and I'll take it out.

Hugs all,
Rea

That is good news...Salt Lake has a wonderful children's hospital. That is where my brother was treated. Will keep you and yours in my prayers...:pray:
God Bless

[itsrea]

We got a call that the doctors want to do another surgery, but in the last couple of hours David has developed pneumonia... like I said, I don't know much about Cystic Fibrosis, but I do know that pneumonia is NOT good.. for David, who has begun developing that bacteria (I have had no luck at finding info on the web about what it's called or what happens) that affects CF patients, this pneumonia could be deadly.. if any of you are nurses or know about this I'd appreciate the info.. and the prayers, cause they REALLY need them now.

[rhet 2]

We got a call that the doctors want to do another surgery, but in the last couple of hours David has developed pneumonia... like I said, I don't know much about Cystic Fibrosis, but I do know that pneumonia is NOT good.. for David, who has begun developing that bacteria (I have had no luck at finding info on the web about what it's called or what happens) that affects CF patients, this pneumonia could be deadly.. if any of you are nurses or know about this I'd appreciate the info.. and the prayers, cause they REALLY need them now.

My prayers are His to use at need, and if ever there was a need, this is it!

Hang tough, dear one. Nothing doubting. :hug:

[itsrea]

My prayers are His to use at need, and if ever there was a need, this is it!

Hang tough, dear one. Nothing doubting. :hug:I thank :hug:you that you are willing to pray for the Lord's will in this because I just keep thinking David's dog is here... he has to come get it.. I know that doesn't make much sense, but right now it's the prayer in my heart.

[Seanachie]

I don't mean to 'hijack' your thread either. But why don't we just talk about online dating? Who needs to be talking about much more substantial stuff anyways?

[rhet 2]

I thank :hug:you that you are willing to pray for the Lord's will in this because I just keep thinking David's dog is here... he has to come get it.. I know that doesn't make much sense, but right now it's the prayer in my heart.

It makes perfect sense to me. You're asking the LORD to set right what is all topsy-turvy at the moment, the messed up not-right represented by a dog not where it's supposed to be.

It IS all topsy-turvy, and I want it set right side up as in immediately.

Crap like this just isn't supposed to be. That's what I keep telling the LORD, anyway. Just not supposed to be.

[itsrea]

Please keep in mind my info comes from phone calls and I may not be spelling things correctly and/or even using the right name/term...

Netta called a few ago. David has MRSA and has been quaranteened.. he was due back in surgery this morning because the pain has returned to his intestines and tests make the dr's think that his large intestine has telescoped (sucked up) his small intestine again - something they worried would happen because of his Cystic Fibrosis. If that has happened and they don't do surgery David will die - what I've been led to believe may be a over simplification of a very serious issue, but essentially what's happening is that David is strangling to death from the insides. If they DO do surgery the MRSA could kill, which it may do anyway.

Netta sounds just awful.. she had to go because she needed to turn David, so she must be quaranteened in/with him, but before she hung up she said this MRSA is 100 times worse then the bacteria that killed her two children - and David has THAT bacteria (the one that killed her two children) PLUS pneumonia..

I just don't even know what to pray for anymore folks... I just can't imagine what it must be like for them to be so far away from family and fellowship.. yet I know that I'm the one wondering what could God be thinking while they are not.. they have absolute trust in God and what He will do for and about David.

So, please, pray whichever the way the Lord needs you.

Thank you all,
Rea

[USMCmom]

Please keep in mind my info comes from phone calls and I may not be spelling things correctly and/or even using the right name/term...

Netta called a few ago. David has MRSA and has been quaranteened.. he was due back in surgery this morning because the pain has returned to his intestines and tests make the dr's think that his large intestine has telescoped (sucked up) his small intestine again - something they worried would happen because of his Cystic Fibrosis. If that has happened and they don't do surgery David will die - what I've been led to believe may be a over simplification of a very serious issue, but essentially what's happening is that David is strangling to death from the insides. If they DO do surgery the MRSA could kill, which it may do anyway.

Netta sounds just awful.. she had to go because she needed to turn David, so she must be quaranteened in/with him, but before she hung up she said this MRSA is 100 times worse then the bacteria that killed her two children - and David has THAT bacteria (the one that killed her two children) PLUS pneumonia..

I just don't even know what to pray for anymore folks... I just can't imagine what it must be like for them to be so far away from family and fellowship.. yet I know that I'm the one wondering what could God be thinking while they are not.. they have absolute trust in God and what He will do for and about David.

So, please, pray whichever the way the Lord needs you.

Thank you all,
Rea

Oh Rea my heart just breaks for this poor family...of course I will keep David in my prayers. You are doing just fine Rea, please keep us posted and let us know if there is anything that we can do!
Sending hugs & prayers to you my friend...stay strong
God Bless David & his family...will keep them all in my prayers too!

[birdonawire]

Please keep in mind my info comes from phone calls and I may not be spelling things correctly and/or even using the right name/term...

Netta called a few ago. David has MRSA and has been quaranteened.. he was due back in surgery this morning because the pain has returned to his intestines and tests make the dr's think that his large intestine has telescoped (sucked up) his small intestine again - something they worried would happen because of his Cystic Fibrosis. If that has happened and they don't do surgery David will die - what I've been led to believe may be a over simplification of a very serious issue, but essentially what's happening is that David is strangling to death from the insides. If they DO do surgery the MRSA could kill, which it may do anyway.

Netta sounds just awful.. she had to go because she needed to turn David, so she must be quaranteened in/with him, but before she hung up she said this MRSA is 100 times worse then the bacteria that killed her two children - and David has THAT bacteria (the one that killed her two children) PLUS pneumonia..

I just don't even know what to pray for anymore folks... I just can't imagine what it must be like for them to be so far away from family and fellowship.. yet I know that I'm the one wondering what could God be thinking while they are not.. they have absolute trust in God and what He will do for and about David.

So, please, pray whichever the way the Lord needs you.

Thank you all,
Rea

Just praying hard for Gods will, He knows what to do. :pray:

[rhet 2]

1) We pray the LORD stop the pain NOW, or at least reduce it so David is not in agony 24/7.

2) We pray the LORD end the fear NOW, giving David and all his family, including Rea, the "peace of Christ which passes all understanding" -- "faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God" -- and where faith is, there is no room for despair or fear or dread of possibilities beyond human control -- for there is NOTHING beyond the LORD's ability to control and, 1 Cor. 10:13, give us the means to endure the trials of our faith, Rms. 8: 28, while He combines even so heavy a cross as this one with other things to make this work for David's good first of all, for the good of the entire family, second.

3) We "give thanks in all things, for this is the Will of the LORD concerning you," so that He may give much greater blessing to David than would happen without the cross he must endure for a little time.

4) We pray for healing, for surely the LORD can give David a body made strong by His own Eternal Decree which nothing in the universe can escape.

5) We pray for maximum wisdom for the doctors and the technicians that they should know the problems -- all of them -- see how they interact with each other to cause greater problems than any one alone might do -- and know exactly how to break the cycle and block the combination of problems and fix those problems one by one by one.

Above all, we pray for the determination to continue praying and NEVER accept defeat.

For, "with God, all things are possible" and "if God be for you" -- which He most surely IS, forever and always, without possibility of failing our trust in Him -- "what can be against you."

We WILL see the Perfect Grace of the Almighty work in David's behalf for the eternal blessing of the dear boy and all who love and cherish him.

NOTHING DOUBTING, for this is the Will of the ONE who died on the cross, having endured hell on earth for David's sake, so that HE might proclaim, "It is finished," our salvation and restoration of friendship with the LORD of Lords assured, completed, brought to fruition, never to be again separated from His Eternal and Perfect Love Omnipotent and Omnipresent, without doubt, without any possibility of ever changing.

We throw our cares upon Him, take His yoke upon us, learn of Him and walk in His Paths of Righteousness, and surely we shall find HIS yoke easy to carry.

May the LORD make it so, I do so most earnestly pray with every ounce of faith and courage and determination to endure unto the Day of His Return.

In His Holy Name, for the sake of His own inheritance in the saints, Amen.

[itsrea]

1) We pray the LORD stop the pain NOW, or at least reduce it so David is not in agony 24/7.

2) We pray the LORD end the fear NOW, giving David and all his family, including Rea, the "peace of Christ which passes all understanding" -- "faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God" -- and where faith is, there is no room for despair or fear or dread of possibilities beyond human control -- for there is NOTHING beyond the LORD's ability to control and, 1 Cor. 10:13, give us the means to endure the trials of our faith, Rms. 8: 28, while He combines even so heavy a cross as this one with other things to make this work for David's good first of all, for the good of the entire family, second.

3) We "give thanks in all things, for this is the Will of the LORD concerning you," so that He may give much greater blessing to David than would happen without the cross he must endure for a little time.

4) We pray for healing, for surely the LORD can give David a body made strong by His own Eternal Decree which nothing in the universe can escape.

5) We pray for maximum wisdom for the doctors and the technicians that they should know the problems -- all of them -- see how they interact with each other to cause greater problems than any one alone might do -- and know exactly how to break the cycle and block the combination of problems and fix those problems one by one by one.

Above all, we pray for the determination to continue praying and NEVER accept defeat.

For, "with God, all things are possible" and "if God be for you" -- which He most surely IS, forever and always, without possibility of failing our trust in Him -- "what can be against you."

We WILL see the Perfect Grace of the Almighty work in David's behalf for the eternal blessing of the dear boy and all who love and cherish him.

NOTHING DOUBTING, for this is the Will of the ONE who died on the cross, having endured hell on earth for David's sake, so that HE might proclaim, "It is finished," our salvation and restoration of friendship with the LORD of Lords assured, completed, brought to fruition, never to be again separated from His Eternal and Perfect Love Omnipotent and Omnipresent, without doubt, without any possibility of ever changing.

We throw our cares upon Him, take His yoke upon us, learn of Him and walk in His Paths of Righteousness, and surely we shall find HIS yoke easy to carry.

May the LORD make it so, I do so most earnestly pray with every ounce of faith and courage and determination to endure unto the Day of His Return.

In His Holy Name, for the sake of His own inheritance in the saints, Amen.Exactly the foremat that I taught my kids to use: ACTS

A = Adoration = I do not deserve you Lord, and I thank you for loving me anyway.

C = Confession = I confess to you my heartache and fear about losing David and I confess to you my anger at Netta and Curt being so far away from all of us and the feeling of helplessness that I'm experiencing... I know you are in control Lord, I just wish there were more I could do.

T = Thanksgiving = thank you Lord, for Jesus, for loving me and standting by me in my doubt and fear and most of all heartache.

S = Supplication = Please Lord, hear the hearts desire I have for David and Netta and Curt. Help his family here at home, so many miles away, deal with the separation and the fear they, too, have concerning Davids plight. Help us ALL know that whatever is happening you are present and holding close to your heart, and in realizing such help me to know that you are attempting to ease this burden I can't seem to lay down.

In Jesus Name I pray,
Amen

[itsrea]

If you don't hear from me it may not be bad news about David.. the weather here is simply awful - 20" (yes, 20 inches) of rain is due over the Olympic Mtns, and I don't know how much here in the Cascades, but people downstream are already being evacuated (look up Elam and Orting, WA). The Cowlitz (the river that runs by us) was already at 8 feet last time I looked and we still have another 24 hours or more of this storm coming in from the Hawaiin Islands.

Click on Randle and Packwood... we're between them. LINK (http://ahps2.wrh.noaa.gov/ahps2/forecasts.php?wfo=sew)

We are above flood plane here at the house. But we are trapped here also - there have been two mudslides closing down highway 12 West of us already, and it's my understanding (but unconfirmed) that all the passes are also closed because of avalanche concerns... so there is no getting in or out of here for awhile. Some of Randle has also been evacuated (were we go to church), and our neighbors on lower properties are moving belongings to higher grounds because the mudslides are changing the creeks paths. One creek close to us (I think it's called the lower or little cuyuse) has changed it's route and is flooding a neighbor's pasture. He is out with his tractor trying to divert the flow from the other creek behind his property away from the house (they live in the house that was his fathers and grandfathers in the "Y" of the Cowlitz River and the Cuyuse Creek)... as I type.

We lost power as soon as I posted about David (and so have not been able to get calls from anyone about him) and just got it back but we expect, with the mudslides and flooding, to lose it again... I'll check in as weather allows so you don't worry but if you don't hear from me don't worry.

hugs,
Rea

[rhet 2]

If you don't hear from me it may not be bad news abput David.. the weather here is simply awful - 20" (yes, 20 inches) of rain is due over the Olympic Mtns, and I don't know how much here in the Cascades, but people downstream are already being evacuated (look up Elam and Orting, WA). The Cowlitz (the river that runs by us) was already at 16 feet last time I looked and we still have another 24 hours or more of this storm coming in from the Hawaiin Islands.

We are above flood plane here at the house. But we are trapped here also - there have been two mudslides closing down highway 12 West of us already, and it's my understanding (but unconfirmed) that all the passes are also closed because of avalanche concerns... so there is no getting in or out of here for awhile. Some of Randle has also been evacuated (were we go to church), and our neighbors on lower properties are moving belongings to higher grounds because the mudslides are changing the creeks paths. One Creek close to us (I think it's called the lower or little cuyuse) has changed it't route and is flooding a neighbors pasture. He is out with his tractor trying to divert the flow from the other creek behind his property away from the house (they live in the house that was his fathers and grandfathers in the "Y" of the Cowlitz River and the Cuyuse Creek)...

We lost power as soon as I posted about David and just got it back but we expect, with the mudslides and flooding, to lose it again... I'll check in as weather allows so you don't worry but if you don't hear from me don't worry.

hugs,
Rea

I was praying it was the weather and the connection and not David.

I pray the connection holds up. And don't worry: we'll continue to pray whether you can get online or not.

[itsrea]

I was praying it was the weather and the connection and not David.

I pray the connection holds up. And don't worry: we'll continue to pray whether you can get online or not.Thank you :hug: Rhet, USMC, Bird, EVERYONE!! :hug:


You people make me cry.

[itsrea]

here is a LINK (http://ahps2.wrh.noaa.gov/ahps2/forecasts.php?wfo=sew)for seeing what's happening.. click on both Randle and Packwood.. we're between them (but closer to Packwood).

lights are flickering again.

[rhet 2]

here is a LINK (http://ahps2.wrh.noaa.gov/ahps2/forecasts.php?wfo=sew)for seeing what's happening.. click on both Randle and Packwood.. we're between them (but closer to Packwood).

lights are flickering again.

God watch over you both AND over the dogs, the house, and your treasured possessions. :pray:

[USMCmom]

1) We pray the LORD stop the pain NOW, or at least reduce it so David is not in agony 24/7.

2) We pray the LORD end the fear NOW, giving David and all his family, including Rea, the "peace of Christ which passes all understanding" -- "faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God" -- and where faith is, there is no room for despair or fear or dread of possibilities beyond human control -- for there is NOTHING beyond the LORD's ability to control and, 1 Cor. 10:13, give us the means to endure the trials of our faith, Rms. 8: 28, while He combines even so heavy a cross as this one with other things to make this work for David's good first of all, for the good of the entire family, second.

3) We "give thanks in all things, for this is the Will of the LORD concerning you," so that He may give much greater blessing to David than would happen without the cross he must endure for a little time.

4) We pray for healing, for surely the LORD can give David a body made strong by His own Eternal Decree which nothing in the universe can escape.

5) We pray for maximum wisdom for the doctors and the technicians that they should know the problems -- all of them -- see how they interact with each other to cause greater problems than any one alone might do -- and know exactly how to break the cycle and block the combination of problems and fix those problems one by one by one.

Above all, we pray for the determination to continue praying and NEVER accept defeat.

For, "with God, all things are possible" and "if God be for you" -- which He most surely IS, forever and always, without possibility of failing our trust in Him -- "what can be against you."

We WILL see the Perfect Grace of the Almighty work in David's behalf for the eternal blessing of the dear boy and all who love and cherish him.

NOTHING DOUBTING, for this is the Will of the ONE who died on the cross, having endured hell on earth for David's sake, so that HE might proclaim, "It is finished," our salvation and restoration of friendship with the LORD of Lords assured, completed, brought to fruition, never to be again separated from His Eternal and Perfect Love Omnipotent and Omnipresent, without doubt, without any possibility of ever changing.

We throw our cares upon Him, take His yoke upon us, learn of Him and walk in His Paths of Righteousness, and surely we shall find HIS yoke easy to carry.

May the LORD make it so, I do so most earnestly pray with every ounce of faith and courage and determination to endure unto the Day of His Return.

In His Holy Name, for the sake of His own inheritance in the saints, Amen.

Amen...:hug:

[itsrea]

8:25 PST and we still have electric... a couple of brownouts forced me to get things ready for a night of candlelight tho and I'm shutting the computer down inbetween checkups on the weather link I gave up.

The water at Randle is still rising, they are past flood stage into 'moderate stage' and are nearing 'major stage. They were mentioned over and over and over in the news tonight - they are cut off with mudslides covering the highway on both ends of town (I don't mean that literally - I mean nobody can get in or out because the highway is closed down.. Randle is 12 miles from us.

Packwood is into 'action stage, with 10" to go to flood stage. We shouldn't have to worry at our house but we are unable to reach any of our neighbors by phone (all busy signals which could mean busy or could mean phones out) and it's too dangerous with the creek running across our Road to go see, so we don't know how anyone is.

We're set here... snow is compacting down around us, we have wood and the wood stove is going, the candles and flashlights are ready, and the campstove, etc set up just in case...

I'll check in later if I have any news.

Thank you for your prayers, etc :hug: everyone :hug:

[rhet 2]

8:25 PST and we still have electric... a couple of brownouts forced me to get things ready for a night of candlelight tho and I'm shutting the computer down inbetween checkups on the weather link I gave up.

The water at Randle is still rising, they are past flood stage into 'moderate stage' and are nearing 'major stage. They were mentioned over and over and over in the news tonight - they are cut off with mudslides covering the highway on both ends of town (I don't mean that literally - I mean nobody can get in or out because the highway is closed down.. Randle is 12 miles from us.

Packwood is into 'action stage, with 10" to go to flood stage. We shouldn't have to worry at our house but we are unable to reach any of our neighbors by phone (all busy signals which could mean busy or could mean phones out) and it's too dangerous with the creek running across our Road to go see, so we don't know how anyone is.

We're set here... snow is compacting down around us, we have wood and the wood stove is going, the candles and flashlights are ready, and the campstove, etc set up just in case...

I'll check in later if I have any news.

Thank you for your prayers, etc :hug: everyone :hug:

Prayers for all in danger, that you've got!

LORD, please act to preserve life and joy in the face of such wild and out of control nature. You promised us a Rainbow, and now would be a real good time for one both literal and symbolic to blaze across the heavens overhanging the entire region! Please, for the glory of Christ our LORD. Amen. :pray: :pray: :pray:

[itsrea]

10:25

Finally reached our friends at the end of our Road (we can see their lights from our back deck).. looks like he made a mess with the tractor trying to stop the creek from coming into his house... we called and finally got through - you know those people you yell at on the news? The ones that won't evacuate and/or drive through running water, and/or walk out onto the beach when a hurrican is coming? Well that seems to be our neighbors... she says a 'little water has come into the kitchen' but not any further in, so they are going to stay put.

:rolleyes: :eek:

I dunno about you but that SOUNDS like your house is flooding people!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

We said come stay in our spare room but they said no, we'll be ok.

Gheeze.

We've never been able to hear the river from our house and you can now...

The rest of us are pretty dry as far as I can tell.. we'll know more tomorrow.

I think my eye appointment is cancelled - I haven't been able to get through to even leave a message.

We'll be going to be soon.. I'll check back in the morning.

Hugs.
Rea

[USMCmom]

Am praying that all will weather this storm safely...I would of been up to your house Rea the minute that water even LOOKED like it might come in my house! But at least they know that you are there...
Stay safe & you will all be in my prayers...

[itsrea]

well, we weathered the storm ok... everyones phones are out so we really don't know how anyone else is.. the highway is closed from Moddy Rock to the Yakima County line, and we can't tell where the mudslides/road outages are, so we aren't going out.. but here is the gossip as we know it:

Bob and Cheryl said the river only ever did come into the kitchen, and they are sitting down there waiting for the insurance guy to come look at the damage (Bob is OUR insurance guy lol). They drove down to Randle as far as they could go and said the grocery store is under 3-4 feet of water. That would be so is the restaurant and the local bar and grill (where we go for a steak when we want one). Our church is farther this way, more up hill, so maybe it and the new pastor and wife are ok.. but we won't know till the phones are up.

Eight rivers have yet to crest.. the last one expected to do so about midnight tonight.. ours crested at a little over nine feet and is going back down here at our place.. in Randle it crested at 22.8 feet and is receeding. Interstate 5 is closed from the junction of my highway (12) all the way up the other side of Centralia because the river (not sure which river) is out across the highway.

We had to drive into town because David's dog ate the welder's gloves I use for adding wood to the wood SEEM/look ok.. cept for the guy who does the chain saw carvings.. the creek that ran behind his house is now running through a part of his home and/or the carport, and down the steps, down the drive and out across the highway, where it is degrading the pavement on the West bound side at an alarming rate.. we asked around town, everyone seems to be ok though.

On a funny note Rick learned a valuable lesson this morning - unable to reach Bob and Cheryl he decided to drive down there, explaining if the vehicles weren't there he would drive into town to see if he could find them. I said take the cell and call me and PLEASE do not sit down there and visit cause I will be worried.. he said ok. Then he leaves. Two hours later I go out and dig-out-the-CRV (still snowed and iced in), start it up and get dressed for walking in the rain should I get ti stuck and three hours after he left to drive 1/4 (ONE quarter of a freakin) mile down the road and/or three miles into town, I am in my car, backing out of the driveway when he pulls in.. I've never seen him look so ashamed. He said I couldn't get away Rea, they just kept talking.. I said Rick there is one major thing you better realize about me: I AM NOT THE KIND OF IMPY WOMAN WHO SITS AT HOME AND FRETS.. and the sooner you understand that the sooner you will FINALLY BEGIN TO UNDERSTAND WHO I AM!!!!!!

He stands there a mintue (it looks like it is finally settling in), reaches into the car, takes my arm and says come on. And we calmly walk into the house.


















Maybe NEXT time I will friggin finally COME FIRST!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
















:redface:

[itsrea]

:cry: Because of roads and phones I am unable to find out anything about David.

:pray:

[rhet 2]

:cry: Because of roads and phones I am unable to find out anything about David.

:pray:

I praise the Holy ONE for your safety and pray for restoration to normality asap.

And I join your prayers for David with all my heart.

[itsrea]

I praise the Holy ONE for your safety and pray for restoration to normality asap.

And I join your prayers for David with all my heart.All I can think is that the Lord has us all cut off from Netta and David for some reason..

[rhet 2]

All I can think is that the Lord has us all cut off from Netta and David for some reason..

Or the shutting off may be a side effect of the flooding, which He is allowing for some reason.

Or, gee, you think the two events are somehow getting worked together, in combination, to grow you and Rick some more? Not to mention, growing David and his own friends and parents at the same time?

I'm only twitting you a teeny tiny bit just for the fun of teasing.

You are very right. He allows nothing to happen except for good cause, the outcome being exactly what He wants and needs in all the lives involved -- including insurance agent neighbors with muddy kitchen floors.

:hug:

[itsrea]

The phone is back up - Netta called one of the ladies from church this morning - at that time David was no better and was no worse - I guess with that MRSA this is a GOOD thing.

They asked if they could transport him home, to Seattle, to the hospital there and the dr told them no, he would never survive the trip - and (this lady told us) the total time in quarantine (if everything goes ok) is 14 days.

I know Netta would be so blessed by all of you if she knew you were praying... I know that I definately am.

Thank you all so much!

[itsrea]

Or the shutting off may be a side effect of the flooding, which He is allowing for some reason.

Or, gee, you think the two events are somehow getting worked together, in combination, to grow you and Rick some more? Not to mention, growing David and his own friends and parents at the same time?

I'm only twitting you a teeny tiny bit just for the fun of teasing.

You are very right. He allows nothing to happen except for good cause, the outcome being exactly what He wants and needs in all the lives involved -- including insurance agent neighbors with muddy kitchen floors.

:hug::eek: .. you think the Lord would flood this whole area, people would lose their homes, and Netta and her husband and David would be stuck in Salt Lake City to teach us a lesson?


















Gheeze Rhet...you saying Rick and I are stubborn, or what????? :redface:












:razz:

[rhet 2]

:eek: .. you think the Lord would flood this whole area, people would lose their homes, and Netta and her husband and David would be stuck in Salt Lake City to teach us a lesson?


















Gheeze Rhet...you saying Rick and I are stubborn, or what????? :redface:












:razz:

Stubborn? You? Rick? :))

Hey, is there anything the LORD will not do to get those called to His Kingdom ready to enter His throne room and survive the experience?

And it's not YOUR kitchen buried in mud, is it?

14 days is a long time to wait

But no change for the worse is a blessing -- just not the one I'm nagging God to get.

I'm praying, too. David is never far from my thoughts, constantly held up before the LORD for Him to intervene and act to cure and restore to full function, to bless with faith and strength to endure and "keep on keeping on."

:hug: and :pray:

[itsrea]

No word on David today. Netta may think that our phones are still out, or long distance from that direction could be out? I dunno... just no word today.

[itsrea]

One of the ladies at church received a call fro Netta.. She believes David has turned a corner for the better. The lady from church actually spoke to David for a few and she told David you hang in there, your grandmother says you are doing better - David can hardly speak but he managed to whisper 'that's what they tell me but I don't feel like it.'

Netta stayed in a motel/hotel last night and the lady from church says that she soulds better, not so tired. I'm trying to get a message to Netta to use the computers supplied at the hospital to print up a picture of David's dog that I'm sending.. maybe that will cheer him.

They are not ANY where near being out of the woods but thank you all for your prayers for everyone caring for David, and for David himself. And thank you Rhet, for nagging.

I am almost unable to stay awake. I don't know if it's stress or if it's the osteoporsis keeping me from reaching good sleep at night, but either way I am cat-napping a lot the last two days... tomorrow church is open and I'm hoping to be able to experience a refreshing. At any rate, my being so tired is the reason I'm only popping in and out...

Hugs,
Rea

[USMCmom]

One of the ladies at church received a call fro Netta.. She believes David has turned a corner for the better. The lady from church actually spoke to David for a few and she told David you hang in there, your grandmother says you are doing better - David can hardly speak but he managed to whisper 'that's what they tell me but I don't feel like it.'

Netta stayed in a motel/hotel last night and the lady from church says that she soulds better, not so tired. I'm trying to get a message to Netta to use the computers supplied at the hospital to print up a picture of David's dog that I'm sending.. maybe that will cheer him.

They are not ANY where near being out of the woods but thank you all for your prayers for everyone caring for David, and for David himself. And thank you Rhet, for nagging.

I am almost unable to stay awake. I don't know if it's stress or if it's the osteoporsis keeping me from reaching good sleep at night, but either way I am cat-napping a lot the last two days... tomorrow church is open and I'm hoping to be able to experience a refreshing. At any rate, my being so tired is the reason I'm only popping in and out...

Hugs,
Rea

Rea that is awesome news...I can only imagine that your poor body needs a break. Stress can just suck the life out a person. Get some rest dear and thanks for the update...that just made my day!!!:hug:

[rhet 2]

One of the ladies at church received a call fro Netta.. She believes David has turned a corner for the better. The lady from church actually spoke to David for a few and she told David you hang in there, your grandmother says you are doing better - David can hardly speak but he managed to whisper 'that's what they tell me but I don't feel like it.'

Netta stayed in a motel/hotel last night and the lady from church says that she soulds better, not so tired. I'm trying to get a message to Netta to use the computers supplied at the hospital to print up a picture of David's dog that I'm sending.. maybe that will cheer him.

They are not ANY where near being out of the woods but thank you all for your prayers for everyone caring for David, and for David himself. And thank you Rhet, for nagging.

I am almost unable to stay awake. I don't know if it's stress or if it's the osteoporsis keeping me from reaching good sleep at night, but either way I am cat-napping a lot the last two days... tomorrow church is open and I'm hoping to be able to experience a refreshing. At any rate, my being so tired is the reason I'm only popping in and out...

Hugs,
Rea

I thank the LORD with all my heart -- and petition Him for still more grace, more healing, more intervention.

Please rest yourself, dear sister.

I pray He give you sweet healing naps -- and Netta, too -- for surely your need for rest against the exigencies of the morrow is great.

:hug:

[itsrea]

Netta called us a few ago to check on Abby. She does indeed sound sooo much more rested then last time I spoke with her.

She said David gave up there for awhile, wouldn't fight to live.. she says today is the first time since he first collapsed that he has sounds like he plans to live. Made me want to cry for her - how awful to have to stand by and watch a teen give up, but she says he was just so sick, in so much pain, that he literally did not want to live.

David's other grandparent is sitting with him while she and her husband went to dinner then took some time away from the hospital - Netta said they might go to the show. The got pictures and other stuff to brighten his room in the hopes he'd take interest in his surroundings but today is the first time he's done that.

She does have access to a computer at the hospital so tonight we took pics of Abby and I emailed them to her for David's wall. I hope the encourage him to keep fighting so he can come home to her.

Thank you all, again, for your prayers and encouragements.

hugs,
Rea

[bella-day]

One of the ladies at church received a call fro Netta.. She believes David has turned a corner for the better. The lady from church actually spoke to David for a few and she told David you hang in there, your grandmother says you are doing better - David can hardly speak but he managed to whisper 'that's what they tell me but I don't feel like it.'

Netta stayed in a motel/hotel last night and the lady from church says that she soulds better, not so tired. I'm trying to get a message to Netta to use the computers supplied at the hospital to print up a picture of David's dog that I'm sending.. maybe that will cheer him.

They are not ANY where near being out of the woods but thank you all for your prayers for everyone caring for David, and for David himself. And thank you Rhet, for nagging.

I am almost unable to stay awake. I don't know if it's stress or if it's the osteoporsis keeping me from reaching good sleep at night, but either way I am cat-napping a lot the last two days... tomorrow church is open and I'm hoping to be able to experience a refreshing. At any rate, my being so tired is the reason I'm only popping in and out...

Hugs,
Rea


Prayers for David.

It sounds like he is making good progress.

Prayers for you too rea. :hug:

[rhet 2]

Netta called us a few ago to check on Abby. She does indeed sound sooo much more rested then last time I spoke with her.

She said David gave up there for awhile, wouldn't fight to live.. she says today is the first time since he first collapsed that he has sounds like he plans to live. Made me want to cry for her - how awful to have to stand by and watch a teen give up, but she says he was just so sick, in so much pain, that he literally did not want to live.

David's other grandparent is sitting with him while she and her husband went to dinner then took some time away from the hospital - Netta said they might go to the show. The got pictures and other stuff to brighten his room in the hopes he'd take interest in his surroundings but today is the first time he's done that.

She does have access to a computer at the hospital so tonight we took pics of Abby and I emailed them to her for David's wall. I hope the encourage him to keep fighting so he can come home to her.

Thank you all, again, for your prayers and encouragements.

hugs,
Rea

It is a hard lesson for the very young to learn, that sheer obstinate jaw-clenched refusal to roll over and die.

In point of fact, at 60 with years and years and years of catastrophes to face, I'm not just real good at it myself.

And poor David got hit with a hell of a lot worse than most of us ever face in an entire lifetime.

That he's fighting back at all is a wonderful bit of sheer grace from the LORD. Thank God his grandparents are able to be there with him, for nothing drives the Fight-Back Drive like loving others too much to just quit on them and let them, too, take the pain of you giving up.

Prayers continue. Major prayer war here in my heart. Can't get David off my mind for anything -- and don't want to. May the Good LORD seal him and his family -- and you and Rick -- and the dogs -- in a soft bubble of His own Deliverance from Evil Wonder Working, a shield wall that NOTHING can penetrate, while He Personally delivers the healing needed.

[jwil59]

Netta called us a few ago to check on Abby. She does indeed sound sooo much more rested then last time I spoke with her.

She said David gave up there for awhile, wouldn't fight to live.. she says today is the first time since he first collapsed that he has sounds like he plans to live. Made me want to cry for her - how awful to have to stand by and watch a teen give up, but she says he was just so sick, in so much pain, that he literally did not want to live.

David's other grandparent is sitting with him while she and her husband went to dinner then took some time away from the hospital - Netta said they might go to the show. The got pictures and other stuff to brighten his room in the hopes he'd take interest in his surroundings but today is the first time he's done that.

She does have access to a computer at the hospital so tonight we took pics of Abby and I emailed them to her for David's wall. I hope the encourage him to keep fighting so he can come home to her.

Thank you all, again, for your prayers and encouragements.

hugs,
Rea

I am praying hard for David

[itsrea]

No newa today on David yet...

I want you to know that I've been near tears the last two-three days. Along with the stress, Isabella is back in the hospital, this time the seizure was so bad they couldn't get it to stop until they over medicated her, then they had to sedate her to keep her from tearing out the leads and IV's. My brother John has written one small email and eveyone's cells are turned off, and so my baby brother called late last night with what is essentially 4th hand info from a relative of my ex-SIL's cousin or something like that.

Add to that that my eyes are SO tired from trying to see for the 14-15 hours of darkness we're having that all I can do is cat-nap and try to not bust out crying at everything that happens or is said. Rick and I finally sat down and talked and I realized that my home is the only place that I can keep relatively danger free (because of my vision) and that with only one light and the extension cords I began to feel there was NO place I could go that I felt RELAXED and safe in. He apologized and said I'll get on the phone Monday and try to find SOME electrician and get this fixed...

That electrician that couldn't come because of snow etc was mortified when he heard we still did not have this fixed and so was here at 7 this morning...and just from the very start we knew he knew what he was doing and he would have been gone hours ago had we kept our mouths shut, but Rick told him the others had checked all the outlets and five hours into his trying to find the problem we realize, 'well, wait, they didn't check that one', and then we realize another one hadn't been checked, and sure enough eventually we get to the one behind the guest room bed (where there IS power and has been all along) and that's where the problem was... in the general business of working to see if all the wires are hot all of a sudden we have lights in the other rooms.. he says he is a believer but even so he would like to know WHAT he did to fix it.. he did try to find what must have been loose and never found it but just to be safe he put new boxes in those two outlets... he says since he doesn't know what he did it could happen again but this summer we are going to make an appt with him to get the pool onto it's own curcuit, and, since there is a spare position on the panel for the house, he's going to rewire the living room so it's on his own breaker.

So all the cords are cleared out, all the appliances etc hooked into their own outlets and everything works.. tonight I can sit in a well lit living room and crochet while we watch TV.. that will be the first time I've been able to really SEE in every room of the house in over a month.

Anyway, I do have calls into Johnny about Isabella and in regards to David and now that we have electric back on the phone should work and everyone should be able to get through.

I praise and thank the Lord that our electric works, I thank each of you for praying in this concern, and I ask you continue to pray for Isabella and David and his family.

Thank you ALL so much,
Hugs,
Rea

[rhet 2]

No newa today on David yet...

I want you to know that I've been near tears the last two-three days. Along with the stress, Isabella is back in the hospital, this time the seizure was so bad they couldn't get it to stop until they over medicated her, then they had to sedate her to keep her from tearing out the leads and IV's. My brother John has written one small email and eveyone's cells are turned off, and so my baby brother called late last night with what is essentially 4th hand info from a relative of my ex-SIL's cousin or something like that.

Add to that that my eyes are SO tired from trying to see for the 14-15 hours of darkness we're having that all I can do is cat-nap and try to not bust out crying at everything that happens or is said. Rick and I finally sat down and talked and I realized that my home is the only place that I can keep relatively danger free (because of my vision) and that with only one light and the extension cords I began to feel there was NO place I could go that I felt RELAXED and safe in. He apologized and said I'll get on the phone Monday and try to find SOME electrician and get this fixed...

That electrician that couldn't come because of snow etc was mortified when he heard we still did not have this fixed and so was here at 7 this morning...and just from the very start we knew he knew what he was doing and he would have been gone hours ago had we kept our mouths shut, but Rick told him the others had checked all the outlets and five hours into his trying to find the problem we realize, 'well, wait, they didn't check that one', and then we realize another one hadn't been checked, and sure enough eventually we get to the one behind the guest room bed (where there IS power and has been all along) and that's where the problem was... in the general business of working to see if all the wires are hot all of a sudden we have lights in the other rooms.. he says he is a believer but even so he would like to know WHAT he did to fix it.. he did try to find what must have been loose and never found it but just to be safe he put new boxes in those two outlets... he says since he doesn't know what he did it could happen again but this summer we are going to make an appt with him to get the pool onto it's own curcuit, and, since there is a spare position on the panel for the house, he's going to rewire the living room so it's on his own breaker.

So all the cords are cleared out, all the appliances etc hooked into their own outlets and everything works.. tonight I can sit in a well lit living room and crochet while we watch TV.. that will be the first time I've been able to really SEE in every room of the house in over a month.

Anyway, I do have calls into Johnny about Isabella and in regards to David and now that we have electric back on the phone should work and everyone should be able to get through.

I praise and thank the Lord that our electric works, I thank each of you for praying in this concern, and I ask you continue to pray for Isabella and David and his family.

Thank you ALL so much,
Hugs,
Rea

Thank You, LORD, for the electric problem fix.

I'd rather thank You, LORD, for Isabella and David fixes, though.

I'll trade You Rea's electricity for the end of the seizures? You could throw my own in with her's, too, if You insist. A little darkness wouldn't hurt me, not like knowing two sweet young lives are at risk.

Great LORD of All Mercy, how about just fixing all three problems at one and the same time, just so we can go dance to the Glory of Christ, while watching angels stand watching with their jaws on the ground in the snow. Even the dogs would join in the snow dances.

:pray:

This is NOT ACCEPTABLE to anyone with the least hint of knowledge of Who Jesus IS, was and always will BE, You know. Not in the least acceptable.

We beg You with all our hearts for HEALING for Isabella and for David. Thank you for the power fix in Rea's house -- and bless that darling electrician out of his ever loving mind, with more PAYING customers than he's got hours to work in.

That was grace, indeed -- grace from him -- and GRACE from You.

But I've just got to insist on still more GRACE -- Infinite and Perfect Grace, in the healing and blessing of Isabella and David and their entire families.

And, yeah, I DO know You're God -- supreme, Infinite, WAY out of my league -- and that I haven't got one single leg to stand on when it comes to claiming something from You -----

Except for this one thing, LORD. Your Own Sweet Son. By His own actions, through His Perfect Obedience, He EARNED Your Grace. He MERITS Your gifts of Infinite Mercy. And HE gave me the right to petition, to insist, to crawl on my belly begging, if that's what You require of me. More than that, did HE not ask that the children be allowed to come to Him? Did HE not go through hell on earth for David's sake, because He knows David, inside and out, and loves David more than He loves Himself? Did HE not create Isabella, hand her over to her parents for them to nurture and love and care for? And went through living hell on earth for her sake, too.

Me, I'm easy to overlook.

But can You overlook Christ's love for those two precious youngsters? Can You ignore HIS LOVE AND HIS SACRIFICE for their sakes?

Somehow, I don't think You can or would -- because that's just not the sort of Being YOU are, now is it?

So, for the sake of our LORD and Master, Jesus Christ, the ONE for whom, through whom, and by whom are all things on this earth, hear our prayers and INTERVENE. But say the Word, and all will be set right to foster the lives and lay the groundwork for David and Isabella to serve Him all their days on this earth for years and years to come -- and then, after long years of healthy service in HIS vineyards, having sung His glories on this earth, to sing His glory for the angels in Your own throne room.

In His Name and for His sake, I truly seek Your great and incomparable MERCIES for these two children, held captive to the flawed flesh of Adam's rebellion -- and REDEEMED by the Blood of the LAMB of God Who endured living hell in order to buy their freedom to live, to prosper, to serve Him in the flesh here on this earth for years to come.

[itsrea]

We beg You with all our hearts for HEALING for Isabella and for David. Thank you for the power fix in Rea's house -- and bless that darling electrician out of his ever loving mind, with more PAYING customers than he's got hours to work in.

That was grace, indeed -- grace from him -- and GRACE from You.

But I've just got to insist on still more GRACE -- Infinite and Perfect Grace, in the healing and blessing of Isabella and David and their entire families.

And, yeah, I DO know You're God -- supreme, Infinite, WAY out of my league -- and that I haven't got one single leg to stand on when it comes to claiming something from You -----

Except for this one thing, LORD. Your Own Sweet Son. By His own actions, through His Perfect Obedience, He EARNED Your Grace. He MERITS Your gifts of Infinite Mercy. And HE gave me the right to petition, to insist, to crawl on my belly begging, if that's what You require of me. More than that, did HE not ask that the children be allowed to come to Him? Did HE not go through hell on earth for David's sake, because He knows David, inside and out, and loves David more than He loves Himself? Did HE not create Isabella, hand her over to her parents for them to nurture and love and care for? And went through living hell on earth for her sake, too.

Me, I'm easy to overlook.

But can You overlook Christ's love for those two precious youngsters? Can You ignore HIS LOVE AND HIS SACRIFICE for their sakes?

Somehow, I don't think You can or would -- because that's just not the sort of Being YOU are, now is it?

So, for the sake of our LORD and Master, Jesus Christ, the ONE for whom, through whom, and by whom are all things on this earth, hear our prayers and INTERVENE. But say the Word, and all will be set right to foster the lives and lay the groundwork for David and Isabella to serve Him all their days on this earth for years and years to come -- and then, after long years of healthy service in HIS vineyards, having sung His glories on this earth, to sing His glory for the angels in Your own throne room.

In His Name and for His sake, I truly seek Your great and incomparable MERCIES for these two children, held captive to the flawed flesh of Adam's rebellion -- and REDEEMED by the Blood of the LAMB of God Who endured living hell in order to buy their freedom to live, to prosper, to serve Him in the flesh here on this earth for years to come.Amen and amen and amen...


:clap::dance: David has turned a corner and turned a corner... his doctors are amazed that he has come back so quickly (much less at all) and are talking about releasing him Thursday.. we aren't sure but we think by release they mean that he can be transferred to Chidren's here in Washington, in Seattle. I didn't speak to Netta myself, so that's all I have and to be honest, it's all I need right now 'cause the way things stand David is going to live. It may be a long, hard haul for him to get strength back and it may not... and I know that it it is a long haul then he will fuss and complain, but for me my friends just know he is going to live is enough. :clap::dance:

I thank you :hug: my good prayer partners :hug: for your steadfast faithfulness in prayer and support and encouragement, and I thank you Lord, for the blessings of being able to share life with David some more.

:hug:

[rhet 2]

Amen and amen and amen...


:clap::dance: David has turned a corner and turned a corner... his doctors are amazed that he has come back so quickly (much less at all) and are talking about releasing him Thursday.. we aren't sure but we think by release they mean that he can be transferred to Chidren's here in Washington, in Seattle. I didn't speak to Netta myself, so that's all I have and to be honest, it's all I need right now 'cause the way things stand David is going to live. It may be a long, hard haul for him to get strength back and it may not... and I know that it it is a long haul then he will fuss and complain, but for me my friends just know he is going to live is enough. :clap::dance:

I thank you :hug: my good prayer partners :hug: for your steadfast faithfulness in prayer and support and encouragement, and I thank you Lord, for the blessings of being able to share life with David some more.

:hug:

My eyes are misted with tears of gratitude.

Thank God from Whom all blessings truly flow, for He sees the tears and wipes them from our cheeks with His own loving Nail Scarred Hand.

Who, indeed, is like our LORD?

Amen and again, amen.

[bella-day]

No newa today on David yet...

I want you to know that I've been near tears the last two-three days. Along with the stress, Isabella is back in the hospital, this time the seizure was so bad they couldn't get it to stop until they over medicated her, then they had to sedate her to keep her from tearing out the leads and IV's. My brother John has written one small email and eveyone's cells are turned off, and so my baby brother called late last night with what is essentially 4th hand info from a relative of my ex-SIL's cousin or something like that.

Add to that that my eyes are SO tired from trying to see for the 14-15 hours of darkness we're having that all I can do is cat-nap and try to not bust out crying at everything that happens or is said. Rick and I finally sat down and talked and I realized that my home is the only place that I can keep relatively danger free (because of my vision) and that with only one light and the extension cords I began to feel there was NO place I could go that I felt RELAXED and safe in. He apologized and said I'll get on the phone Monday and try to find SOME electrician and get this fixed...

That electrician that couldn't come because of snow etc was mortified when he heard we still did not have this fixed and so was here at 7 this morning...and just from the very start we knew he knew what he was doing and he would have been gone hours ago had we kept our mouths shut, but Rick told him the others had checked all the outlets and five hours into his trying to find the problem we realize, 'well, wait, they didn't check that one', and then we realize another one hadn't been checked, and sure enough eventually we get to the one behind the guest room bed (where there IS power and has been all along) and that's where the problem was... in the general business of working to see if all the wires are hot all of a sudden we have lights in the other rooms.. he says he is a believer but even so he would like to know WHAT he did to fix it.. he did try to find what must have been loose and never found it but just to be safe he put new boxes in those two outlets... he says since he doesn't know what he did it could happen again but this summer we are going to make an appt with him to get the pool onto it's own curcuit, and, since there is a spare position on the panel for the house, he's going to rewire the living room so it's on his own breaker.

So all the cords are cleared out, all the appliances etc hooked into their own outlets and everything works.. tonight I can sit in a well lit living room and crochet while we watch TV.. that will be the first time I've been able to really SEE in every room of the house in over a month.

Anyway, I do have calls into Johnny about Isabella and in regards to David and now that we have electric back on the phone should work and everyone should be able to get through.

I praise and thank the Lord that our electric works, I thank each of you for praying in this concern, and I ask you continue to pray for Isabella and David and his family.

Thank you ALL so much,
Hugs,
Rea


I'm so glad to read that you finally have electricity again. What an ordeal that must have been for you.

Prayers continue for David and Isabella.

[jwil59]

Amen and amen and amen...


:clap::dance: David has turned a corner and turned a corner... his doctors are amazed that he has come back so quickly (much less at all) and are talking about releasing him Thursday.. we aren't sure but we think by release they mean that he can be transferred to Chidren's here in Washington, in Seattle. I didn't speak to Netta myself, so that's all I have and to be honest, it's all I need right now 'cause the way things stand David is going to live. It may be a long, hard haul for him to get strength back and it may not... and I know that it it is a long haul then he will fuss and complain, but for me my friends just know he is going to live is enough. :clap::dance:

I thank you :hug: my good prayer partners :hug: for your steadfast faithfulness in prayer and support and encouragement, and I thank you Lord, for the blessings of being able to share life with David some more.

:hug:

I have been praying for David and this is great news. I can retate to the fact that the Lord does provide miracles.

You guys are always in my prayers Rea

[itsrea]

I just spoke to John, who is home for the first time in days... Isabella is still in ICU.. they took the breathing tube out late last night and are going to begin weaning her of the sedation today - this process could take up to three days, depending on her reaction and/or if she beings to seize again. They don't know why the medication is not working. Margaret did give her the emergency medication and did what they taught her to do when Isabella seized last week, which may or may not have helped Isabella withstand this seizure - we have no way of knowing.

Tests show that there is one spot on her brain that shouldn't influence the epilepsy, they won't know if there is brain damage for awhile yet.

My brother (johnny) is a mess. He says Margaret seems to hold together when Victor is there, but not so good otherwise. The other two kids are reacting to the tension and so are afraid too. The hospital is recommending no visitors today as they begin to wean Isabella so that is hard too.

John has asked me to tell you all he appreciates your prayers and I know that you will continue to pray for this baby and this family as they go through this process of finding the right medications for Isabella. Please also pray that the doctors and nurses hands are guided to a speedy resolution that will allow Isabella to live without these seizures.

Thank you all.
Rea

[itsrea]

I'm so glad to read that you finally have electricity again. What an ordeal that must have been for you.

Prayers continue for David and Isabella.Thank you :hug: Bella

[itsrea]

I have been praying for David and this is great news. I can retate to the fact that the Lord does provide miracles.

You guys are always in my prayers ReaAs you and yours are in mine :hug: Jeff... thank you.

[itsrea]

I just got this email from Netta:

was finally able to get into my email. David loved the pictures of Abby. We are going to try to get someone here at the hospital to print them out. David is doing great. They are talking about sending him to Seattle Children's Hospital to finish off his meds. It could be as early as tomorrow. We are excited, it's been a long stay and tiring.

Hardly seems possible that just three days ago we didn't know if he would live or die and now they're talking about moving him home..

Thank you :hug: all :hug: for your prayers for David and his family.. I ask that you continue them for a safe transfer here to Washington, and for continued improvement.. and that Netta and Curt get to spend some time recouping in the warmth of the own home...

thanks again everyone,
hugs
rea

[rhet 2]

I just got this email from Netta:



Hardly seems possible that just three days ago we didn't know if he would live or die and now they're talking about moving him home..

Thank you :hug: all :hug: for your prayers for David and his family.. I ask that you continue them for a safe transfer here to Washington, and for continued improvement.. and that Netta and Curt get to spend some time recouping in the warmth of the own home...

thanks again everyone,
hugs
rea

Prayers for David and his family and friends will continue.

Prayers for Isabella continue, too.


But the thanks go to the LORD -- without Him, prayer wouldn't be possible at all -- and He's the One doing the real work of healing both body and soul.

:hug:

[itsrea]

Netta called. David has been released and is on his way to Seattle Children's Hospital... they made him a bed in the back of her vehicle and are driving straight through... they expect the trip to take them about 16 hours and believe Netta's husband will be here to pick up Abby sometime tomorrow afternoon. It sounds like they may treat David and send him home for two weeks then require he come back (for inpatient or outpatient I don't know) for more treatment.. treatment for the CF or for the MRSA is unknown... at any rate they all sounded so up, so relieved, so happy.

Hugs,
Rea

[USMCmom]

Netta called. David has been released and is on his way to Seattle Children's Hospital... they made him a bed in the back of her vehicle and are driving straight through... they expect the trip to take them about 16 hours and believe Netta's husband will be here to pick up Abby sometime tomorrow afternoon. It sounds like they may treat David and send him home for two weeks then require he come back (for inpatient or outpatient I don't know) for more treatment.. treatment for the CF or for the MRSA is unknown... at any rate they all sounded so up, so relieved, so happy.

Hugs,
Rea

Rea that is truly wonderful news, something you both are more than due for! I will keep David in my prayers...he has certainly proved that he is a fighter! I also pray that Isabella will soon be on the mend and that the Dr's will be able to get this under control.

Hope all is well with you dear, I am praying that no more bad weather comes your way and that you will soon hear the songs of spring from God's little feathered creatures! I am also thankful that you were able to find someone to fix your electric problem. How nice it must be to finally have light!

Take care of yourself my dear, am keeping you & Rick in my prayers!

God Bless:hug:

[itsrea]

They stopped here to pick up David's dog.. I told him spin around.. I want to see where the hand of God touched you... there, there it is, right there on your heart.

He looked at me like Gawd, you old folks are strange.

Abby went wild, David went wild and both had to be calmed down.

The medical report is:

He's too thin. CF patients, due to their lack of digestion abilities, can never afford to lose weight and he's lost 10 pounds from a frame most would call skeletal anyway. And he's sooo pale! But he smiled and played with his dog and talked to us!

Salt Lake City sent him straight home to Seattle Childrens but a call to his own specialist to inform her he was on his way got them a little reprieve - she said go home, get some rest for the weekend, be here bright and early Monday morning. He has a three week regime that he has to complete, so supposedly will be there for five day stays and then home weekends. I don't have a clue if the treatments are for the CF or the MRSA or the surgery or all three. Maybe one of you experts does know?

Anyway, it was good to see him! He does not allow pictures but if I can get one I'll post it for you all.

:)

[rhet 2]

They stopped here to pick up David's dog.. I told him spin around.. I want to see where the hand of God touched you... there, there it is, right there on your heart.

He looked at me like Gawd, you old folks are strange.

Abby went wild, David went wild and both had to be calmed down.

The medical report is:

He's too thin. CF patients, due to their lack of digestion abilities, can never afford to lose weight and he's lost 10 pounds from a frame most would call skeletal anyway. And he's sooo pale! But he smiled and played with his dog and talked to us!

Salt Lake City sent him straight home to Seattle Childrens but a call to his own specialist to inform her he was on his way got them a little reprieve - she said go home, get some rest for the weekend, be here bright and early Monday morning. He has a three week regime that he has to complete, so supposedly will be there for five day stays and then home weekends. I don't have a clue if the treatments are for the CF or the MRSA or the surgery or all three. Maybe one of you experts does know?

Anyway, it was good to see him! He does not allow pictures but if I can get one I'll post it for you all.

:)

I don't need pics to care for him deeply.

It is good for him to be home, safe and comfy and happy in between medical tortures.

I haven't a clue about treatments.

But I can and do continue to pray for all I'm worth.

There is a young man growing who MUST be set free to serve the LORD for years and years to come before he joins us in the Wedding Feast to sing hosannas to the Holy ONE Who IS.

[itsrea]

I'm not quite sure what happened yesterday - I called last night to see if they'd kept David at the hospital and found out they didn't go.. Netta said David was not up to it so they called and asked if they could go Tuesday instead.

I'd ask for prayer that they ALL be given the emotional and physical stamina needed to complete the treatments cause my research shows this MRSA to be some pretty nasty stuff.

Rick and I have the flu... he's slept upright in the recliner for two nights now cause of ear and throat-gland aches that we thought were swimmers ear type thing from the shower but I woke this morning with a ear ache too, so a trip to the dr's for both of us - we were sent home with ear drops and aspirin.. my ear feels better, Rick's is still pretty miserable. Our tummies are a leeeeeetle 'upset' too. And I just cannot seem to get enough sleep - seems like every five minuets I'm headed for a nap.

So I'd appreciate prayers for us both.

thank you...

[rhet 2]

I'm not quite sure what happened yesterday - I called last night to see if they'd kept David at the hospital and found out they didn't go.. Netta said David was not up to it so they called and asked if they could go Tuesday instead.

I'd ask for prayer that they ALL be given the emotional and physical stamina needed to complete the treatments cause my research shows this MRSA to be some pretty nasty stuff.

Rick and I have the flu... he's slept upright in the recliner for two nights now cause of ear and throat-gland aches that we thought were swimmers ear type thing from the shower but I woke this morning with a ear ache too, so a trip to the dr's for both of us - we were sent home with ear drops and aspirin.. my ear feels better, Rick's is still pretty miserable. Our tummies are a leeeeeetle 'upset' too. And I just cannot seem to get enough sleep - seems like every five minuets I'm headed for a nap.

So I'd appreciate prayers for us both.

thank you...

Sounds to me like David and his grandparents are not the only ones in need of some MAJOR "stamina injections" straight from the Hand of the LORD of All Life Himself.

For which I surely do petition the LORD Who Hears and Who SEES.

[jwil59]

They stopped here to pick up David's dog.. I told him spin around.. I want to see where the hand of God touched you... there, there it is, right there on your heart.

He looked at me like Gawd, you old folks are strange.

Abby went wild, David went wild and both had to be calmed down.

The medical report is:

He's too thin. CF patients, due to their lack of digestion abilities, can never afford to lose weight and he's lost 10 pounds from a frame most would call skeletal anyway. And he's sooo pale! But he smiled and played with his dog and talked to us!

Salt Lake City sent him straight home to Seattle Childrens but a call to his own specialist to inform her he was on his way got them a little reprieve - she said go home, get some rest for the weekend, be here bright and early Monday morning. He has a three week regime that he has to complete, so supposedly will be there for five day stays and then home weekends. I don't have a clue if the treatments are for the CF or the MRSA or the surgery or all three. Maybe one of you experts does know?

Anyway, it was good to see him! He does not allow pictures but if I can get one I'll post it for you all.

:)

I am still praying for david Rea.

[bella-day]

I'm not quite sure what happened yesterday - I called last night to see if they'd kept David at the hospital and found out they didn't go.. Netta said David was not up to it so they called and asked if they could go Tuesday instead.

I'd ask for prayer that they ALL be given the emotional and physical stamina needed to complete the treatments cause my research shows this MRSA to be some pretty nasty stuff.

Rick and I have the flu... he's slept upright in the recliner for two nights now cause of ear and throat-gland aches that we thought were swimmers ear type thing from the shower but I woke this morning with a ear ache too, so a trip to the dr's for both of us - we were sent home with ear drops and aspirin.. my ear feels better, Rick's is still pretty miserable. Our tummies are a leeeeeetle 'upset' too. And I just cannot seem to get enough sleep - seems like every five minuets I'm headed for a nap.

So I'd appreciate prayers for us both.

thank you...

Prayers for all of you hun.

It sounds like David is making good progress.

I hope you and Rick feel better very soon. The flu is miserable enough without adding the misery of ear aches as well.

[USMCmom]

I'm not quite sure what happened yesterday - I called last night to see if they'd kept David at the hospital and found out they didn't go.. Netta said David was not up to it so they called and asked if they could go Tuesday instead.

I'd ask for prayer that they ALL be given the emotional and physical stamina needed to complete the treatments cause my research shows this MRSA to be some pretty nasty stuff.

Rick and I have the flu... he's slept upright in the recliner for two nights now cause of ear and throat-gland aches that we thought were swimmers ear type thing from the shower but I woke this morning with a ear ache too, so a trip to the dr's for both of us - we were sent home with ear drops and aspirin.. my ear feels better, Rick's is still pretty miserable. Our tummies are a leeeeeetle 'upset' too. And I just cannot seem to get enough sleep - seems like every five minuets I'm headed for a nap.

So I'd appreciate prayers for us both.

thank you...

Am keeping all of you in my prayers Rea...hope you and Rick are feeling better and that David will soon be feeling better!
Take care of yourself & God Bless

[itsrea]

After having making an appt and having a long talk with Rick's and my doctor and as soon as we can get him into the offiice under the guise of a much needed blood sugar test, the doctor is going to order tests to see if Rick has Alzhiemers and/or dementia.

[USMCmom]

After having making an appt and having a long talk with Rick's and my doctor and as soon as we can get him into the offiice under the guise of a much needed blood sugar test, the doctor is going to order tests to see if Rick has Alzhiemers and/or dementia.

Oh Rea...my heart is breaking for you.:(( Please know that I am praying with all I have for the both of you!
Hugs & Prayers for you and Rick...:hug:

[rhet 2]

After having making an appt and having a long talk with Rick's and my doctor and as soon as we can get him into the offiice under the guise of a much needed blood sugar test, the doctor is going to order tests to see if Rick has Alzhiemers and/or dementia.

Oh my dear!

Stay hopeful, resting in the LORD.

And we will pray our hearts out for a "Nope, not yet" answer.

[jwil59]

After having making an appt and having a long talk with Rick's and my doctor and as soon as we can get him into the offiice under the guise of a much needed blood sugar test, the doctor is going to order tests to see if Rick has Alzhiemers and/or dementia.

I am praying hard about those tests Rea. hang tough friend

[USMCmom]

Rea...just wanted to let ya know we are thinking of you & Rick! Hope all is well.
We miss ya:hug:
God Bless

[itsrea]

The dr started Rick on Alzheimer’s medications today. I am NOT happy with doing it this way.. nothing else has been ruled out.. not strokes, not a tumor, nothing. I asked the nurse if the doctor knew difinatively that it was alzheimer's? Did it show up in the blood work they ran last week and she sais there is no blood test. I said well what if he's having strokes or something and she said if the medications do not work then he should by all means come back in to be tested for other illnesses - in the meantime they COULD be treating the wrong illness because a tumor could be growing, or he could be having strokes.

But Rick won't listen to me.. he asked me if I had power of attorney and when I said yes - we filled them out last year when we did "Right of Survivorship" paperwork, and he said ok, then, the doctor has not steered me wrong in anything else - so I'll go with the medications.

I've called Rick's sons to ask for their help in helping me convince Rick that he should ask his doctor to rule out other things TOO. He's not here right now.. the boys will call later when he's home.

[rhet 2]

The dr started Rick on Alzheimer’s medications today. I am NOT happy with doing it this way.. nothing else has been ruled out.. not strokes, not a tumor, nothing. I asked the nurse if the doctor knew difinatively that it was alzheimer's? Did it show up in the blood work they ran last week and she sais there is no blood test. I said well what if he's having strokes or something and she said if the medications do not work then he should by all means come back in to be tested for other illnesses - in the meantime they COULD be treating the wrong illness because a tumor could be growing, or he could be having strokes.

But Rick won't listen to me.. he asked me if I had power of attorney and when I said yes - we filled them out last year when we did "Right of Survivorship" paperwork, and he said ok, then, the doctor has not steered me wrong in anything else - so I'll go with the medications.

I've called Rick's sons to ask for their help in helping me convince Rick that he should ask his doctor to rule out other things TOO. He's not here right now.. the boys will call later when he's home.

Oh, sweetie, the only way to diagnose Alzheimer's is by an autopsy to see how far the hypocampus has atrophied.

As a general rule, if they cannot find evidence of a tumor or a stroke or some other identifiable cause, they assume A's and prescribe the meds -- and if the meds help, then it's fairly sure -- but still not definite -- that it is A's.

I pray it isn't. If it is, I pray the meds work. And I pray the LORD give you the stength to endure if it is anything whatsoever, A's or something else, entirely.

Your husband tied of a tumor, yes? The very thought of a repeat must have you so very on edge. I know you're strong in the faith, so you wouldn't "wig out" or anything -- but no way this has you anything but chewing fingernails.

May I recommend a book about Alzheimer's? I found a great deal of comfort when my Daddy and my MIL both developed the symptoms, and there are several good books available now. I got mine from the public library, and they so helped me understand what was happening and know what to expect down the road as time went by.

And I promise to pray lie fury for the LORD to see both you darling dears through this, whatever it is.

:hug:

[USMCmom]

The dr started Rick on Alzheimer’s medications today. I am NOT happy with doing it this way.. nothing else has been ruled out.. not strokes, not a tumor, nothing. I asked the nurse if the doctor knew difinatively that it was alzheimer's? Did it show up in the blood work they ran last week and she sais there is no blood test. I said well what if he's having strokes or something and she said if the medications do not work then he should by all means come back in to be tested for other illnesses - in the meantime they COULD be treating the wrong illness because a tumor could be growing, or he could be having strokes.

But Rick won't listen to me.. he asked me if I had power of attorney and when I said yes - we filled them out last year when we did "Right of Survivorship" paperwork, and he said ok, then, the doctor has not steered me wrong in anything else - so I'll go with the medications.

I've called Rick's sons to ask for their help in helping me convince Rick that he should ask his doctor to rule out other things TOO. He's not here right now.. the boys will call later when he's home.

Rea i know nothing about this disease but just know that the both of you are in my prayers.
Stay strong dear friend & remember we are here...:hug:

[itsrea]

Your husband tied of a tumor, yes? Yes he did, but more to the point is that Rick's father died of a brain tumor when Rick was 14, and his mother died of a brain tumor two years later.

We saw the dr today because we thought I'd broken my right hand (I haven't, soft tissue damage and some bleeding in the joint tho - I was loading wood into the wood stove and my glove got caught - when I yanked it loose my hand slammed against the metal reburner inside the stove). When the dr was through seeing me I suggested Rick ask his questions.. the dr said he planned to run tests for both brain tumor and stroke in about two weeks when we saw if there was no improvement in Rick... Rick told him well, my mother died of a brain tumor and the dr said, oh, well, we'd better do those tests... and I said so did your father Rick, and the dr started, looked at Rick and says THAT makes a lot of difference Rick and ordered a CAT scan.. they did it while they were waiting for the results of the xray on my hand. We don't have the results yet.

Thank you for your prayers Rhet.

[itsrea]

Rea i know nothing about this disease but just know that the both of you are in my prayers.
Stay strong dear friend & remember we are here...:hug:Thank you.

[rhet 2]

Yes he did, but more to the point is that Rick's father died of a brain tumor when Rick was 14, and his mother died of a brain tumor two years later.

We saw the dr today because we thought I'd broken my right hand (I haven't, soft tissue damage and some bleeding in the joint tho - I was loading wood into the wood stove and my glove got caught - when I yanked it loose my hand slammed against the metal reburner inside the stove). When the dr was through seeing me I suggested Rick ask his questions.. the dr said he planned to run tests for both brain tumor and stroke in about two weeks when we saw if there was no improvement in Rick... Rick told him well, my mother died of a brain tumor and the dr said, oh, well, we'd better do those tests... and I said so did your father Rick, and the dr started, looked at Rick and says THAT makes a lot of difference Rick and ordered a CAT scan.. they did it while they were waiting for the results of the xray on my hand. We don't have the results yet.

Thank you for your prayers Rhet.

I can only imagine the temptation to terror you're fighting, dear one.

I KNOW you're not yielding to the temptation -- but that doesn't mean the temptation isn't a fierce one to fight off.

I pray the LORD comfort you and hold you strong to resist -- and pray for this to be a nothing after all, pray for a reversal and/or blockage of the problem asap.

Super hugs.

As Jeff would say, "Hang tough."

You've spent too many years clinging to faith with every ounce of strength you've got to change now. :hug:

[jaggy]

:( ...God Bless you:hug:

[itsrea]

the nurse left a voicemail - the CAT scan is clear, and if we want to ask more questions, please call.

We'll call tomorrow and ask if the test was only for a brain tumor or if it also showed if there have been any strokes.

He's on his second day of medications, no insomnia or bad reactions so far.

Please continue to keep him in your prayers.

[rhet 2]

the nurse left a voicemail - the CAT scan is clear, and if we want to ask more questions, please call.

We'll call tomorrow and ask if the test was only for a brain tumor or if it also showed if there have been any strokes.

He's on his second day of medications, no insomnia or bad reactions so far.

Please continue to keep him in your prayers.

Prayers continuing. With all my heart.

It's more than time you two got a break -- a really long R & R, as a matter of fact.

:hug:

[itsrea]

Prayers continuing. With all my heart.

It's more than time you two got a break -- a really long R & R, as a matter of fact.

:hug:I don't see that happening anytime soon my friend.. if this is Alzheimer's then we have some adjusting and some planning to do.. if it's mini strokes I don't even have a clue what can be done, if anything.

And just daily life is a struggle at the moment - there is still 16 inches to over two feet of snow (depending on if it's just snow or drifts or where the tractor pushed it up) that is packed into ice so hard I can't break through it with a regular shovel covering most of the property.. I can't get that last bit on the deck to break up and gave up trying to break through to make a path from the front door to the gate - we walk on top of it when we are outside. I trudged over to the pool and there is a good four to six inch ice shelf covering the whole thing. We've lost one large fir, and large branches off of most of the others.. as soon as we can get to them we have to do the pruning because the first hot day will bring a swarm of a kazillion huge black carpenter ants. Then comes rebuilding the front deck/landing, rebuilding the roof on the wood shed, and recaulking the whole house' rain gutters... we had two that leaked this winter and it flooded and froze by the front door and made it dangerous to get out.

Rick looked at me the other day and said I can't remember ever getting tired of green. LOL

His sense of humor has returned and that awful anger seems to have dissapated and is not currently being aimed at me.. peace has returned to our life and to our relationship, at least for awhile. It's like walking on eggshells sometimes, but most of the time it just feels good.

I don't think either one of us has really taken in the alzheimer's thing yet... there is a panic sitting at the back of my life but at the moment I'm not admitting to it, and when it tries to get itself recognized I quickly turn away.. it is not something I can handle at this time so it's just going to have to wait.

I don't know if Rick feels the same way or not.

[USMCmom]

I don't see that happening anytime soon my friend.. if this is Alzheimer's then we have some adjusting and some planning to do.. if it's mini strokes I don't even have a clue what can be done, if anything.

And just daily life is a struggle at the moment - there is still 16 inches to over two feet of snow (depending on if it's just snow or drifts or where the tractor pushed it up) that is packed into ice so hard I can't break through it with a regular shovel covering most of the property.. I can't get that last bit on the deck to break up and gave up trying to break through to make a path from the front door to the gate - we walk on top of it when we are outside. I trudged over to the pool and there is a good four to six inch ice shelf covering the whole thing. We've lost one large fir, and large branches off of most of the others.. as soon as we can get to them we have to do the pruning because the first hot day will bring a swarm of a kazillion huge black carpenter ants. Then comes rebuilding the front deck/landing, rebuilding the roof on the wood shed, and recaulking the whole house' rain gutters... we had two that leaked this winter and it flooded and froze by the front door and made it dangerous to get out.

Rick looked at me the other day and said I can't remember ever getting tired of green. LOL

His sense of humor has returned and that awful anger seems to have dissapated and is not currently being aimed at me.. peace has returned to our life and to our relationship, at least for awhile. It's like walking on eggshells sometimes, but most of the time it just feels good.

I don't think either one of us has really taken in the alzheimer's thing yet... there is a panic sitting at the back of my life but at the moment I'm not admitting to it, and when it tries to get itself recognized I quickly turn away.. it is not something I can handle at this time so it's just going to have to wait.

I don't know if Rick feels the same way or not.

Rea...please know that you are in my thoughts and my prayers!
Sending hugs & prayers for the both of ya....
God Bless & take care

[jwil59]

I don't see that happening anytime soon my friend.. if this is Alzheimer's then we have some adjusting and some planning to do.. if it's mini strokes I don't even have a clue what can be done, if anything.

And just daily life is a struggle at the moment - there is still 16 inches to over two feet of snow (depending on if it's just snow or drifts or where the tractor pushed it up) that is packed into ice so hard I can't break through it with a regular shovel covering most of the property.. I can't get that last bit on the deck to break up and gave up trying to break through to make a path from the front door to the gate - we walk on top of it when we are outside. I trudged over to the pool and there is a good four to six inch ice shelf covering the whole thing. We've lost one large fir, and large branches off of most of the others.. as soon as we can get to them we have to do the pruning because the first hot day will bring a swarm of a kazillion huge black carpenter ants. Then comes rebuilding the front deck/landing, rebuilding the roof on the wood shed, and recaulking the whole house' rain gutters... we had two that leaked this winter and it flooded and froze by the front door and made it dangerous to get out.

Rick looked at me the other day and said I can't remember ever getting tired of green. LOL

His sense of humor has returned and that awful anger seems to have dissapated and is not currently being aimed at me.. peace has returned to our life and to our relationship, at least for awhile. It's like walking on eggshells sometimes, but most of the time it just feels good.

I don't think either one of us has really taken in the alzheimer's thing yet... there is a panic sitting at the back of my life but at the moment I'm not admitting to it, and when it tries to get itself recognized I quickly turn away.. it is not something I can handle at this time so it's just going to have to wait.

I don't know if Rick feels the same way or not.

I am happy that you and Rick are in harmony with each other now.

I am praying for you guys.

[rhet 2]

I am happy that you and Rick are in harmony with each other now.

I am praying for you guys.

Truth.

My prayers join yours. "The Peace of Christ that passes all understanding" be upon this entire family. :pray:

[itsrea]

:hug:USMCmom :hug:

:hug:jwil59 :hug:

:hug:rhet 2:hug:

Thank you all so very much.

No message from the dr today on what he was testing for, but we did get our new mattress purchased.. maybe now we can get a decent nights sleep...

[rhet 2]

:hug:USMCmom :hug:

:hug:jwil59 :hug:

:hug:rhet 2:hug:

Thank you all so very much.

No message from the dr today on what he was testing for, but we did get our new mattress purchased.. maybe now we can get a decent nights sleep...

Oh, yeah! I envy you: our thrice-damned waterbed is KILLING my back, making sleep most difficult for us both.

I hope and pray it warms soon in your area. We're way above norm temps here. And some are warning of vicious storms in late Feb making this one of the coldest winters on record. I'm praying the LORD soften and modify it for the whole nation -- but especially for your area. I don't see why He can't put an angelic umbrella over you guys, at least. Or shift the wet stuff my way -- we've got drought/fire conditions as bad as ever in history. Widespread through out the high plains states. And I'd KILL for some of your snow and ice on the ground.

[itsrea]

The pastor, led by the Lord, broke the usual pattern of our Sunday worship and said he felt the Lord and did anyone want to go forward. I asked Rick to go forward, but he didn't. I finally asked if he was content to accept Alzheimer's if that is the Lord's will for him. He said yes. I said are you willing to be healed if that's the Lord's will for you? He said yes. I asked how will you know if He wants you healed if you don't go forward? He said the Lord will tell me to.

So I went forward. I asked for strength to deal with what the Lord has allowed in my life, for knowledge in how to help Rick with what the Lord has allowed in his, and for faith in accepting whatever the Lord's will is. And I stood and cried as I was prayed over. I don't know what is coming - research doesn't give me any good guidelines and breaks my heart, so I shut down the computer and haven't been back.

Rick is open, loving, caring, and funny. If you didn't know him you wouldn't even know anything is wrong. And I don't even know if this is something the Lord did, or if it's the medication, or if Rick is simply holding himself together for my sake.. whatever the cause, I am grateful.

David sang the Psalm

"Sing to the Lord a new song;
sing to the Lord, all the earth.
Sing to the Lord, praise his name;
proclaim his salvation day after day.
Declare his glory among the nations,
his marvelous deeds among all peoples.

This morning before leaving for church we watched a man from Croatia speak about how the Lord makes not only tomorrow new, how he makes not only today new, but how he changes the past and makes it new through forgiveness.

Today's sermon was about praise and there is that word again: new.

I have my answers. On those nights that my osteoporosis keeps me pacing I am to spend that time in praise. On those nights that I turn on the TV because panic is clammoring at my heart, I am to praise.

Having been here before, not the same, but kinda the same in that I know Rick will be taken away from me if the Lord chooses to not heal him, I know that the more time I spend with God the better I will be able to deal with whatever this illness brings into our lives.

This is what I wrote years after Aubrey died.. LINK to my Site (http://www.thisisreasplace.com/betweenworlds.htm)

God help me in it not taking me years to recognize, learn, and live this time. God help me to not live between two worlds, but to have the strength to plant myself firmly in his this time.

If I sound strong or really together please know I am not. My heart is squeezed into this tiny lump in my chest, I do not know what tomorrow will bring, I don't even know if I am healthy enough to get through this and take care of Rick at the same time.. all I know is that there is something in me that can't give up - that has to be here to take care of him for as long as this body will let me, so I get up every day and go on. And so does he.

[rhet 2]

The pastor, led by the Lord, broke the usual pattern of our Sunday worship and said he felt the Lord and did anyone want to go forward. I asked Rick to go forward, but he didn't. I finally asked if he was content to accept Alzheimer's if that is the Lord's will for him. He said yes. I said are you willing to be healed if that's the Lord's will for you? He said yes. I asked how will you know if He wants you healed if you don't go forward? He said the Lord will tell me to.

So I went forward. I asked for strength to deal with what the Lord has allowed in my life, for knowledge in how to help Rick with what the Lord has allowed in his, and for faith in accepting whatever the Lord's will is. And I stood and cried as I was prayed over. I don't know what is coming - research doesn't give me any good guidelines and breaks my heart, so I shut down the computer and haven't been back.

Rick is open, loving, caring, and funny. If you didn't know him you wouldn't even know anything is wrong. And I don't even know if this is something the Lord did, or if it's the medication, or if Rick is simply holding himself together for my sake.. whatever the cause, I am grateful.

David sang the Psalm

"Sing to the Lord a new song;
sing to the Lord, all the earth.
Sing to the Lord, praise his name;
proclaim his salvation day after day.
Declare his glory among the nations,
his marvelous deeds among all peoples.

This morning before leaving for church we watched a man from Croatia speak about how the Lord makes not only tomorrow new, how he makes not only today new, but how he changes the past and makes it new through forgiveness.

Today's sermon was about praise and there is that word again: new.

I have my answers. On those nights that my osteoporosis keeps me pacing I am to spend that time in praise. On those nights that I turn on the TV because panic is clammoring at my heart, I am to praise.

Having been here before, not the same, but kinda the same in that I know Rick will be taken away from me if the Lord chooses to not heal him, I know that the more time I spend with God the better I will be able to deal with whatever this illness brings into our lives.

This is what I wrote years after Aubrey died.. LINK to my Site (http://www.thisisreasplace.com/betweenworlds.htm)

God help me in it not taking me years to recognize, learn, and live this time. God help me to not live between two worlds, but to have the strength to plant myself firmly in his this time.

If I sound strong or really together please know I am not. My heart is squeezed into this tiny lump in my chest, I do not know what tomorrow will bring, I don't even know if I am healthy enough to get through this and take care of Rick at the same time.. all I know is that there is something in me that can't give up - that has to be here to take care of him for as long as this body will let me, so I get up every day and go on. And so does he.

Dear one, you don't have to keep yourself glued together -- that is the LORD's work, not yours.

All you have to do is be yourself, love Rick, and love the LORD. He even understands the need to turn on the tv and escape reality for a bit. He even understands tears and pleas of "God, help me" over and over and over when the world seems to run us down and squash us under its wheels.

Perfection He has in and of Himself -- more than enough to credit you with all you need of the stuff.

That's not what He wants from you or me or anyone. All He asks is your friendship, that you turn to Him as your Best Friend regardless of what happens in your life, whether it be hard times or easy ones, tears of sorrow and hurt or smiles when butterflies fly and roses bloom -- just that you stand open to Him, sharing whatever is going on in your heart and mind at the moment.

Just tell Him all about it -- openly, honestly, exactly the way you really think and feel, hiding nothing from your Best Friend -- and He'll do all the rest, making sure that these present trials become great blessing to both you and Rick, blessings that will surely carry you through to the end of time itself.

Any changes He wants made, He'll make Himself.
Any strengthen you need, He'll do that too.

Just "go with the flow," dear one, and let Him do the work of rowing your little life raft along straight lines through the rapids and rocks and snarled tangled roots that Satan's world throws in your path.

We are not the Gardener Who keeps the Vineyard. We do not plant ourselves. Christ IS -- and He does the planting -- and the pruning -- and the harvesting.

Just BE the vine He planted and is surely nurturing to grow according to His will, not according to our own perceptions -- that is all He asks of us -- that we just BE who and what and where and when and how HE as the Perfect Vine Keeper chooses.

In other words, you're just fine exactly as you are right this minute -- because who you are right this minute is who He intends for you to be right this minute -- and you don't need to worry what you'll be like tomorrow -- because tomorrow you'll be exactly who and what and where and when and how He intends you to be in His perfect plan for tomorrow's you.

We will pray very very hard that this is NOT alzheimer's, but something less disruptive -- or that, even if it is, He'll cure it, set it right, to extend Rick's life and ability to fully interact with you and others in his world.

And pray that you and Rick can both relax and live fully and richly in today's condition, fearing nothing, loving and ......... not "enjoying" because some things are just not enjoyable ...... but engaging with every detail of today's existence with nothing held back, feeding richly and fully on whatever the immediate moment holds, both good and bad, joyful and sad, leaving tomorrow to the LORD for Him to shape according to His Perfect Vision of what it should be, so that you both may bloom and flourish regardless of what the world flings at you.

I truly do love you so much and hate to see you enduring such stress and torment. I would gladly take it from you if I could.

But this I do know: NO EVIL CAN OVERWHELM YOU. NOTHING CAN. For surely the LORD hovers over you to shelter and provide and nurture, even in the midst of so heavy a trial, to bring you to the fullness of heart and mind which He surely has set for your destiny and for Rick's, that you may dwell in the House of the LORD, in green pastures, beside still waters for all eternity -- not just in the future, but even now, even in the midst of such stress and heavy toil.

For this is the Nature and Character of our LORD Jesus Christ.

None of it depends upon ourselves. None of it comes from ourselves.

It all comes from only one source -- the LORD Himself. And depends only upon that one thing, His Own Character and Essence, His Own BEING.

All blessing, hope, comfort, joy, and the PEACE of heart and mind, even in the face of the most vicious fires of hell itself -- the Peace of Christ comes from Christ and depends only on that one thing, the Essence of Christ Himself.

But, then, you know that. As you wrote on your linked site with great wisdom.

[itsrea]

NO EVIL CAN OVERWHELM YOU. NOTHING CAN. For surely the LORD hovers over you to shelter and provide and nurture, even in the midst of so heavy a trial, to bring you to the fullness of heart and mind which He surely has set for your destiny and for Rick's, that you may dwell in the House of the LORD, in green pastures, beside still waters for all eternity -- not just in the future, but even now, even in the midst of such stress and heavy toil.

For this is the Nature and Character of our LORD Jesus Christ.

None of it depends upon ourselves. None of it comes from ourselves.

It all comes from only one source -- the LORD Himself. And depends only upon that one thing, His Own Character and Essence, His Own BEING.

All blessing, hope, comfort, joy, and the PEACE of heart and mind, even in the face of the most vicious fires of hell itself -- the Peace of Christ comes from Christ and depends only on that one thing, the Essence of Christ Himself.

But, then, you know that. As you wrote on your linked site with great wisdom.I very much needed to hear this Rhet.. in my heart there really is a panic scrambling for release and I am very much afraid of it - and I needed very much to humanize it and make it something that can be faced.. I think it we get that snow tomorrow I'm going slip and slide across what's frozen out there, to the back fence, and throw rocks at something breakable.

At any rate I so very much appreciate the time you put into your response..

thank you.

[USMCmom]

You and Rick are in my prayers...everyday I ask the Lord to please send you as much comfort, love, hope and strength as you need to help the both of you through this.

Take care dear one and remember we are here...:hug:

[rhet 2]

I very much needed to hear this Rhet.. in my heart there really is a panic scrambling for release and I am very much afraid of it - and I needed very much to humanize it and make it something that can be faced.. I think it we get that snow tomorrow I'm going slip and slide across what's frozen out there, to the back fence, and throw rocks at something breakable.

At any rate I so very much appreciate the time you put into your response..

thank you.

Now there's an idea. But I'll have to make mine out of sand.

Just don't despair -- throw rocks at it. We're throwing prayers at it.

And with God, ALL THINGS are possible.

[itsrea]

The dr's office called. The test was for all things. There are no anomolies in Rick's brain - no tumors, no evidence of stroke, good blood flow.

The diagnosis remains at a combination of grief and Alzheimers.

Now we wait to see if the medication helps the areas where he is having problems.

In the meantime he wants to make sure I have a current power of attorney, and I want to make sure he's taken care of if anything happens to me, so he's agreed to let me look over his finances and we need to talk about the second he wants put on the power of attorney. Watching for reactions to the medication and learning what to do now is about all else I can do.

Well, that and pray, and we are both doing that a LOT.

[ExDem]

Praying....with tears streaming down my face. This is so sad. So very, very sad.

[rhet 2]

The dr's office called. The test was for all things. There are no anomolies in Rick's brain - no tumors, no evidence of stroke, good blood flow.

The diagnosis remains at a combination of grief and Alzheimers.

Now we wait to see if the medication helps the areas where he is having problems.

In the meantime he wants to make sure I have a current power of attorney, and I want to make sure he's taken care of if anything happens to me, so he's agreed to let me look over his finances and we need to talk about the second he wants put on the power of attorney. Watching for reactions to the medication and learning what to do now is about all else I can do.

Well, that and pray, and we are both doing that a LOT.

Okay and better than okay.

IF this is Alz and not just mega-stress, the new meds should off-set the worst of it, slow it down for YEARS and YEARS to come.

And dumping the mega-stress will really help with that, too.

The PoA is vital precaution, too.

You're on top of this one, yes, indeed, you are.

Old age comes to all of us -- part of living. But that doesn't mean we have to rush into decrepitude with open arms.

I thank God he's accepted Christ and that you both are committed believers. He'll see you through whatever the devil's world throws at you, never doubt it.

And I'm praying He wages some Holy War against the "pestilence that walks in darkness" inside Rick's head to at least slow it down and fend off the worst of this Adamic decay for years and years and years to come, so you may both continue to wage war in His behalf on this old world for some time to come.

For, surely, "the harvest is plentiful and the workers few" -- way too few, as it is -- without having still more loaded on the Mayflower and heading for the New World sooner than we absolutely must.

[itsrea]

Okay and better than okay.

IF this is Alz and not just mega-stress, the new meds should off-set the worst of it, slow it down for YEARS and YEARS to come.

And dumping the mega-stress will really help with that, too.

The PoA is vital precaution, too.

You're on top of this one, yes, indeed, you are.

Old age comes to all of us -- part of living. But that doesn't mean we have to rush into decrepitude with open arms.

I thank God he's accepted Christ and that you both are committed believers. He'll see you through whatever the devil's world throws at you, never doubt it.

And I'm praying He wages some Holy War against the "pestilence that walks in darkness" inside Rick's head to at least slow it down and fend off the worst of this Adamic decay for years and years and years to come, so you may both continue to wage war in His behalf on this old world for some time to come.

For, surely, "the harvest is plentiful and the workers few" -- way too few, as it is -- without having still more loaded on the Mayflower and heading for the New World sooner than we absolutely must.Thank you (((Rhet)))

[itsrea]

Praying....with tears streaming down my face. This is so sad. So very, very sad.I am trying to not think sad thoughts - I could become so immersed in them that I'd forget that there is some reason this has come into our lives... But I thank you for your prayers.

[rhet 2]

I am trying to not think sad thoughts - I could become so immersed in them that I'd forget that there is some reason this has come into our lives... But I thank you for your prayers.


We don't "do downers" around here, dearling.

NO BLACK HOLES ALLOWED.

Stick your chin up and defy the world. God's going to take it down down down anyway, 'cause it belongs to the ickies and ain't worth salvaging.

YOU and Rick, on the other hand, ARE.

You are "in the world" but you're neither part of it nor subject to it.

He said so. And what HE says is the way it do be.

Blow raspberries at the snow and ice for me, would you?

:hug:

[itsrea]

We went yesterday to see a lawyer and did the paperwork. My state does not recognize either common law marriages or domestic partners, so we are forced to do wills instead of Right of Survivorship papers. We did the POT's and the Health Directives too. We handled it pretty good. Stopped at the new Chinese place on the way home for dinner, and then, once home, Rick went into a funk, got grumpy, started eating everything he could lay his hands on, and his blood sugar went sky high. When I tried to talk to him about it he got snappy with me... that led to a fight.

The way I see it, unless the Lord heals him, I am going to lose him, and sometimes it feels like/seems like he is hell bent on speeding the process up - he eats and eats and eats when he KNOWS it's going to make his brain function lousy, and that he is going to be ill for days.. plus the high blood sugar completely changes his personality and he gets angry, aggressive, and confrontational.. and if he doesn't stop it drags on for days. Plus his veins are getting so bad that they couldn't find a good one to get the blood for the tests last week.. took them forever. Now he KNOWS that if he doesn't stop this bingeing that he's going to end up losing a extremity or something, but I'm thinking at this point he's thinking 'so what?'., which scares the hell out of me.

This morning he goes into town for the mail and brings me home the sweetest card, a flower, and a bowl that matches my tea pot... all gift wrapped so pretty. I took one look at it sitting there and I started bawling my head off, and then he did too, and we just clung to each other, crying and crying and crying.. He said my world is getting smaller and smaller Rea and I said what I know is that I AM going to lose you and you seem hell bent on speeding the process up when all I want is for you to be ok as long as possible and I need your help in doing that Rick.. he bawls out 'I know, I'll try harder!!'.

He really needs your prayers folks.. he just hasn't quite got turning to God when he thinks about his future instead of grabbing something to stuff in his mouth yet.. please pray that the new pastor starts that men's study soon so he can learn how to do that. And I need your prayers too.. I should have turned to prayer immediately last night instead of reacting out of fear and having that fight and I didn't... and I was still in fear this morning when I woke.

Please pray for us.

We're supposed to go to a church Valentine's Dinner tonight and I look just AWFUL.. face all puffed out, etc.

Gheeze

[USMCmom]

We went yesterday to see a lawyer and did the paperwork. My state does not recognize either common law marriages or domestic partners, so we are forced to do wills instead of Right of Survivorship papers. We did the POT's and the Health Directives too. We handled it pretty good. Stopped at the new Chinese place on the way home for dinner, and then, once home, Rick went into a funk, got grumpy, started eating everything he could lay his hands on, and his blood sugar went sky high. When I tried to talk to him about it he got snappy with me... that led to a fight.

The way I see it, unless the Lord heals him, I am going to lose him, and sometimes it feels like/seems like he is hell bent on speeding the process up - he eats and eats and eats when he KNOWS it's going to make his brain function lousy, and that he is going to be ill for days.. plus the high blood sugar completely changes his personality and he gets angry, aggressive, and confrontational.. and if he doesn't stop it drags on for days. Plus his veins are getting so bad that they couldn't find a good one to get the blood for the tests last week.. took them forever. Now he KNOWS that if he doesn't stop this bingeing that he's going to end up losing a extremity or something, but I'm thinking at this point he's thinking 'so what?'., which scares the hell out of me.

This morning he goes into town for the mail and brings me home the sweetest card, a flower, and a bowl that matches my tea pot... all gift wrapped so pretty. I took one look at it sitting there and I started bawling my head off, and then he did too, and we just clung to each other, crying and crying and crying.. He said my world is getting smaller and smaller Rea and I said what I know is that I AM going to lose you and you seem hell bent on speeding the process up when all I want is for you to be ok as long as possible and I need your help in doing that Rick.. he bawls out 'I know, I'll try harder!!'.

He really needs your prayers folks.. he just hasn't quite got turning to God when he thinks about his future instead of grabbing something to stuff in his mouth yet.. please pray that the new pastor starts that men's study soon so he can learn how to do that. And I need your prayers too.. I should have turned to prayer immediately last night instead of reacting out of fear and having that fight and I didn't... and I was still in fear this morning when I woke.

Please pray for us.

We're supposed to go to a church Valentine's Dinner tonight and I look just AWFUL.. face all puffed out, etc.

Gheeze

First of all my dear friend I think that you are beautiful...:hug: Here is a prayer (not written by me) but I thought that it might help bring you some comfort! I am not as eloquent as some in here but I am praying with all my heart that Rick can comes to terms with his medical issues and that you can find the strength to help him learn to trust the Lord!


Lord,
You invite all who are burdened to come to you. Allow Your healing Hand to heal Rea and Rick. Touch their souls with Your compassion for others; touch their hearts with Your courage and infinite Love for all; touch their minds with Your Wisdom, and may their mouths always proclaim Your praise. Teach them to reach out to You in all their needs, and help them to lead others to You by my example.
Most loving Heart of Jesus, bring them health in body and spirit that they may serve You with all their strength. Touch gently their lives which you have created, now and forever.
Amen

Stay strong Rea and know that we are here for you...
Sending hugs & prayers
God Bless:hug:
Happy Valentines Day!!!

Jeremiah 29:11
“For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the LORD, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’”

[itsrea]

Lord,
You invite all who are burdened to come to you. Allow Your healing Hand to heal Rea and Rick. Touch their souls with Your compassion for others; touch their hearts with Your courage and infinite Love for all; touch their minds with Your Wisdom, and may their mouths always proclaim Your praise. Teach them to reach out to You in all their needs, and help them to lead others to You by my example.
Most loving Heart of Jesus, bring them health in body and spirit that they may serve You with all their strength. Touch gently their lives which you have created, now and forever.
Amen

Stay strong Rea and know that we are here for you...
Sending hugs & prayers
God Bless:hug:
Happy Valentines Day!!!

Jeremiah 29:11
“For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the LORD, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’”Thank you :hug: USMC :hug:

[rhet 2]

We went yesterday to see a lawyer and did the paperwork. My state does not recognize either common law marriages or domestic partners, so we are forced to do wills instead of Right of Survivorship papers. We did the POT's and the Health Directives too. We handled it pretty good. Stopped at the new Chinese place on the way home for dinner, and then, once home, Rick went into a funk, got grumpy, started eating everything he could lay his hands on, and his blood sugar went sky high. When I tried to talk to him about it he got snappy with me... that led to a fight.

The way I see it, unless the Lord heals him, I am going to lose him, and sometimes it feels like/seems like he is hell bent on speeding the process up - he eats and eats and eats when he KNOWS it's going to make his brain function lousy, and that he is going to be ill for days.. plus the high blood sugar completely changes his personality and he gets angry, aggressive, and confrontational.. and if he doesn't stop it drags on for days. Plus his veins are getting so bad that they couldn't find a good one to get the blood for the tests last week.. took them forever. Now he KNOWS that if he doesn't stop this bingeing that he's going to end up losing a extremity or something, but I'm thinking at this point he's thinking 'so what?'., which scares the hell out of me.

This morning he goes into town for the mail and brings me home the sweetest card, a flower, and a bowl that matches my tea pot... all gift wrapped so pretty. I took one look at it sitting there and I started bawling my head off, and then he did too, and we just clung to each other, crying and crying and crying.. He said my world is getting smaller and smaller Rea and I said what I know is that I AM going to lose you and you seem hell bent on speeding the process up when all I want is for you to be ok as long as possible and I need your help in doing that Rick.. he bawls out 'I know, I'll try harder!!'.

He really needs your prayers folks.. he just hasn't quite got turning to God when he thinks about his future instead of grabbing something to stuff in his mouth yet.. please pray that the new pastor starts that men's study soon so he can learn how to do that. And I need your prayers too.. I should have turned to prayer immediately last night instead of reacting out of fear and having that fight and I didn't... and I was still in fear this morning when I woke.

Please pray for us.

We're supposed to go to a church Valentine's Dinner tonight and I look just AWFUL.. face all puffed out, etc.

Gheeze


I know your fear. My Bear is my own world, and what I should do without him is unbearable to think on.

So, don't think on it. Instead, cherish every single moment you have together, whether the world shrinks down on you or not.

And leave tomorrow to the LORD. He knows. He will provide your every need. Rick's needs. Your needs. Rich-Rea needs.

He will provide for mine, too.

I WILL NOT yield to fear.

I will NOT fear tomorrow. I will grab it tight and hold it before the throne of grace.

Even if all I can manage to do sometimes is say that over and over and over: I WILL HOLD ON.

Which is a hell of a lot easier said than done.

I pray He gives you and Rick the strength to JUST HOLD ON.

And me, too.

:hug: :(( :hug:

[itsrea]

I know your fear. My Bear is my own world, and what I should do without him is unbearable to think on.

So, don't think on it. Instead, cherish every single moment you have together, whether the world shrinks down on you or not.

And leave tomorrow to the LORD. He knows. He will provide your every need. Rick's needs. Your needs. Rich-Rea needs.

He will provide for mine, too.

I WILL NOT yield to fear.

I will NOT fear tomorrow. I will grab it tight and hold it before the throne of grace.

Even if all I can manage to do sometimes is say that over and over and over: I WILL HOLD ON.

Which is a hell of a lot easier said than done.

I pray He gives you and Rick the strength to JUST HOLD ON.

And me, too.

:hug: :(( :hug:I join you in that prayer my friend...

[jwil59]

I know your fear. My Bear is my own world, and what I should do without him is unbearable to think on.

So, don't think on it. Instead, cherish every single moment you have together, whether the world shrinks down on you or not.

And leave tomorrow to the LORD. He knows. He will provide your every need. Rick's needs. Your needs. Rich-Rea needs.

He will provide for mine, too.

I WILL NOT yield to fear.

I will NOT fear tomorrow. I will grab it tight and hold it before the throne of grace.

Even if all I can manage to do sometimes is say that over and over and over: I WILL HOLD ON.

Which is a hell of a lot easier said than done.

I pray He gives you and Rick the strength to JUST HOLD ON.

And me, too.

:hug: :(( :hug:

Amen, I join you in that prayer.

[itsrea]

I didn't go to church today - my sleep is so desturbed by arthritis and osteoporosis that I can hardly drag myself out of bed in the mornings lately... this morning waking up literally made me sick to my stomach so I didn't even try and slept till 10:30.

The euphoria that Rick felt because he does not have a brain tumor has worn off and reality set it and there very literally is no place in this house where I know for certain I am safe from a confrontation because there is no way to know what innocent statement of mine, tone of mine, or look of mine is going to hit him wrong - especially since one of the elements in the hotwater heater went out and we are lucky to get a couple gallons of hot water and the element that needs to be replaced will not come out. I understand his anger folks.. but understanding does not ease the pain I feel because of what he is feeling, nor does it negate the hurt I feel at being the person his anger is taken out on. I have cried more the last few days then I have since Aubrey died. I can only hope and pray that this period is as short lived as the euphoria one was.

In the middle of all this there have been a few sunny spots.

Look up at my avatar at my two year old granddaughter- who could not hear last August - and who is hearing so well and her vocabulary so increased that we spoke on the phone yesterday and she said Hiiiiiiii Granny!!! And we talked about her baby doll, and her daddy and poopy pants.

Her father called me to tell me that he has lost some weight so his shorts were bunched a little in his belt in the back and seeing that pooch Little Aubrey (standing on the couch next to him) asked him if he had poopied his pants - and before he could answer her little hand shot down his shorts, came back out, where she examined it, held it up to him for proof and pronounced, 'nope, no poopy'.

:)) :)) :))

He also called to tell me that Aubrey is expecting a new baby brother or sister in October.

:clap: :dance: :clap:

And we have received the unofficial 'hold-these-dates-open-official-notice-will-follow' notice that my youngest and his girlfriend plan to be married in September.

I've asked (and so far the answer is yes) to babysit baby Aubrey, my youngest grandson and the child that will be my new grandson (the boys are 11 yrs old) while the young folks go celebrate the night before the wedding. It'll be the first time the boys will all be together since my second to the oldest was hospitalized because of seizures due to his alcoholism and I ask from you that prayers begin now that their older brother and his wife be invited to join then and that ALL hurt feelings, whether imagined or real, be healed so that these young men (and their wives) can renew their family ties.

My son asked me yesterday what was wrong and I told him that life is really hard right now.. and it is.. but it's more then hard, it's lonely and heartbreaking and I ask that the Lord help my heart to grab onto these bits of sunshine so that it doesn't harden completely into the rock it feels like as it sits in my chest.

Because of Prayer my son is alive, back with his family, and been alcohol free for over a year now. Because of prayer my baby granddaughter can hear and speak. Beause of prayer my youngest son's heart has healed from his ex-wifes cheating and he has moved on, found a lovely, loving GF and plans to remarry and, for the very first time in YEARS, sounds happy! I thank you all so much for your prayers and I so apprieciate your willingness to continue to pray that I simply do not have the words to express how I feel.

[rhet 2]

I didn't go to church today - my sleep is so desturbed by arthritis and osteoporosis that I can hardly drag myself out of bed in the mornings lately... this morning waking up literally made me sick to my stomach so I didn't even try and slept till 10:30.

The euphoria that Rick felt because he does not have a brain tumor has worn off and reality set it and there very literally is no place in this house where I know for certain I am safe from a confrontation because there is no way to know what innocent statement of mine, tone of mine, or look of mine is going to hit him wrong - especially since one of the elements in the hotwater heater went out and we are lucky to get a couple gallons of hot water and the element that needs to be replaced will not come out. I understand his anger folks.. but understanding does not ease the pain I feel because of what he is feeling, nor does it negate the hurt I feel at being the person his anger is taken out on. I have cried more the last few days then I have since Aubrey died. I can only hope and pray that this period is as short lived as the euphoria one was.

In the middle of all this there have been a few sunny spots.

Look up at my avatar at my two year old granddaughter- who could not hear last August - and who is hearing so well and her vocabulary so increased that we spoke on the phone yesterday and she said Hiiiiiiii Granny!!! And we talked about her baby doll, and her daddy and poopy pants.

Her father called me to tell me that he has lost some weight so his shorts were bunched a little in his belt in the back and seeing that pooch Little Aubrey (standing on the couch next to him) asked him if he had poopied his pants - and before he could answer her little hand shot down his shorts, came back out, where she examined it, held it up to him for proof and pronounced, 'nope, no poopy'.

:)) :)) :))

He also called to tell me that Aubrey is expecting a new baby brother or sister in October.

:clap: :dance: :clap:

And we have received the unofficial 'hold-these-dates-open-official-notice-will-follow' notice that my youngest and his girlfriend plan to be married in September.

I've asked (and so far the answer is yes) to babysit baby Aubrey, my youngest grandson and the child that will be my new grandson (the boys are 11 yrs old) while the young folks go celebrate the night before the wedding. It'll be the first time the boys will all be together since my second to the oldest was hospitalized because of seizures due to his alcoholism and I ask from you that prayers begin now that their older brother and his wife be invited to join then and that ALL hurt feelings, whether imagined or real, be healed so that these young men (and their wives) can renew their family ties.

My son asked me yesterday what was wrong and I told him that life is really hard right now.. and it is.. but it's more then hard, it's lonely and heartbreaking and I ask that the Lord help my heart to grab onto these bits of sunshine so that it doesn't harden completely into the rock it feels like as it sits in my chest.

Because of Prayer my son is alive, back with his family, and been alcohol free for over a year now. Because of prayer my baby granddaughter can hear and speak. Beause of prayer my youngest son's heart has healed from his ex-wifes cheating and he has moved on, found a lovely, loving GF and plans to remarry and, for the very first time in YEARS, sounds happy! I thank you all so much for your prayers and I so apprieciate your willingness to continue to pray that I simply do not have the words to express how I feel.

I so pray for the Peace of Christ to come for you and Rick and all your children and grandchildren. You've endured so much turmoil and turbulence for so very long, time for some gentle sea breezes and quiet walking along smooth shores for a while.

:hug: dear one.

Hold the laughter and the hugs. Let go the grief, as much as you can.

[itsrea]

I so pray for the Peace of Christ to come for you and Rick and all your children and grandchildren. You've endured so much turmoil and turbulence for so very long, time for some gentle sea breezes and quiet walking along smooth shores for a while.

:hug: dear one.

Hold the laughter and the hugs. Let go the grief, as much as you can.I'm trying, I really am. You'd think that being 46 years away from the abuse of my childhood I'd be able to deal better with the anger issues, especially since Rick really does have an right to be angry, but it's not proving easy..

Rick said he went forward for healing from the anger today. I don't know what's holding him back in asking for healing from the Alzheimer's but he just doesn't want to... :(

Anyway, tomorrow he insists on driving up to Tacoma alone (to the V.A. hospital) to see about them paying for his testing materials since his diabetes has been diagnosed as agent orange related and it's supposed to rain tomorrow.. I ask that you all say a word of prayer for his safe travel on such a long trip, please.

Thank you all so much,
Rea

[itsrea]

Even tho he cheated by leaving early so he could have breakfast out, and even tho he just called me confused about how to fill out the forms (because he ate potatoes for breakfast and now his blood sugar is high, causing confusion) I am going to leave this in the Lord's hands.

Even tho he cheated by leaving early so he could have breakfast out, and even tho he just called me confused about how to fill out the forms (because he ate potatoes for breakfast and now his blood sugar is high, causing confusion) I am going to leave this in the Lord's hands.

Even tho he cheated by leaving early so he could have breakfast out, and even tho he just called me confused about how to fill out the forms (because he ate potatoes for breakfast and now his blood sugar is high, causing confusion) I am going to leave this in the Lord's hands.

Even tho he cheated by leaving early so he could have breakfast out, and even tho he just called me confused about how to fill out the forms (because he ate potatoes for breakfast and now his blood sugar is high, causing confusion) I am going to leave this in the Lord's hands.

Even tho he cheated by leaving early so he could have breakfast out, and even tho he just called me confused about how to fill out the forms (because he ate potatoes for breakfast and now his blood sugar is high, causing confusion) I am going to leave this in the Lord's hands.

Even tho he cheated by leaving early so he could have breakfast out, and even tho he just called me confused about how to fill out the forms (because he ate potatoes for breakfast and now his blood sugar is high, causing confusion) I am going to leave this in the Lord's hands.

Even tho he cheated by leaving early so he could have breakfast out, and even tho he just called me confused about how to fill out the forms (because he ate potatoes for breakfast and now his blood sugar is high, causing confusion) I am going to leave this in the Lord's hands.

Even tho he cheated by leaving early so he could have breakfast out, and even tho he just called me confused about how to fill out the forms (because he ate potatoes for breakfast and now his blood sugar is high, causing confusion) I am going to leave this in the Lord's hands.

Even tho he cheated by leaving early so he could have breakfast out, and even tho he just called me confused about how to fill out the forms (because he ate potatoes for breakfast and now his blood sugar is high, causing confusion) I am going to leave this in the Lord's hands.

Even tho he cheated by leaving early so he could have breakfast out, and even tho he just called me confused about how to fill out the forms (because he ate potatoes for breakfast and now his blood sugar is high, causing confusion) I am going to leave this in the Lord's hands.

Even tho he cheated by leaving early so he could have breakfast out, and even tho he just called me confused about how to fill out the forms (because he ate potatoes for breakfast and now his blood sugar is high, causing confusion) I am going to leave this in the Lord's hands.

[rhet 2]

Even tho he cheated by leaving early so he could have breakfast out, and even tho he just called me confused about how to fill out the forms (because he ate potatoes for breakfast and now his blood sugar is high, causing confusion) I am going to leave this in the Lord's hands.

Even tho he cheated by leaving early so he could have breakfast out, and even tho he just called me confused about how to fill out the forms (because he ate potatoes for breakfast and now his blood sugar is high, causing confusion) I am going to leave this in the Lord's hands.

Even tho he cheated by leaving early so he could have breakfast out, and even tho he just called me confused about how to fill out the forms (because he ate potatoes for breakfast and now his blood sugar is high, causing confusion) I am going to leave this in the Lord's hands.

Even tho he cheated by leaving early so he could have breakfast out, and even tho he just called me confused about how to fill out the forms (because he ate potatoes for breakfast and now his blood sugar is high, causing confusion) I am going to leave this in the Lord's hands.

Even tho he cheated by leaving early so he could have breakfast out, and even tho he just called me confused about how to fill out the forms (because he ate potatoes for breakfast and now his blood sugar is high, causing confusion) I am going to leave this in the Lord's hands.

Even tho he cheated by leaving early so he could have breakfast out, and even tho he just called me confused about how to fill out the forms (because he ate potatoes for breakfast and now his blood sugar is high, causing confusion) I am going to leave this in the Lord's hands.

Even tho he cheated by leaving early so he could have breakfast out, and even tho he just called me confused about how to fill out the forms (because he ate potatoes for breakfast and now his blood sugar is high, causing confusion) I am going to leave this in the Lord's hands.

Even tho he cheated by leaving early so he could have breakfast out, and even tho he just called me confused about how to fill out the forms (because he ate potatoes for breakfast and now his blood sugar is high, causing confusion) I am going to leave this in the Lord's hands.

Even tho he cheated by leaving early so he could have breakfast out, and even tho he just called me confused about how to fill out the forms (because he ate potatoes for breakfast and now his blood sugar is high, causing confusion) I am going to leave this in the Lord's hands.

Even tho he cheated by leaving early so he could have breakfast out, and even tho he just called me confused about how to fill out the forms (because he ate potatoes for breakfast and now his blood sugar is high, causing confusion) I am going to leave this in the Lord's hands.

Even tho he cheated by leaving early so he could have breakfast out, and even tho he just called me confused about how to fill out the forms (because he ate potatoes for breakfast and now his blood sugar is high, causing confusion) I am going to leave this in the Lord's hands.

Atta girl! :clap:

[jwil59]

Even tho he cheated by leaving early so he could have breakfast out, and even tho he just called me confused about how to fill out the forms (because he ate potatoes for breakfast and now his blood sugar is high, causing confusion) I am going to leave this in the Lord's hands.

Even tho he cheated by leaving early so he could have breakfast out, and even tho he just called me confused about how to fill out the forms (because he ate potatoes for breakfast and now his blood sugar is high, causing confusion) I am going to leave this in the Lord's hands.

Even tho he cheated by leaving early so he could have breakfast out, and even tho he just called me confused about how to fill out the forms (because he ate potatoes for breakfast and now his blood sugar is high, causing confusion) I am going to leave this in the Lord's hands.

Even tho he cheated by leaving early so he could have breakfast out, and even tho he just called me confused about how to fill out the forms (because he ate potatoes for breakfast and now his blood sugar is high, causing confusion) I am going to leave this in the Lord's hands.

Even tho he cheated by leaving early so he could have breakfast out, and even tho he just called me confused about how to fill out the forms (because he ate potatoes for breakfast and now his blood sugar is high, causing confusion) I am going to leave this in the Lord's hands.

Even tho he cheated by leaving early so he could have breakfast out, and even tho he just called me confused about how to fill out the forms (because he ate potatoes for breakfast and now his blood sugar is high, causing confusion) I am going to leave this in the Lord's hands.

Even tho he cheated by leaving early so he could have breakfast out, and even tho he just called me confused about how to fill out the forms (because he ate potatoes for breakfast and now his blood sugar is high, causing confusion) I am going to leave this in the Lord's hands.

Even tho he cheated by leaving early so he could have breakfast out, and even tho he just called me confused about how to fill out the forms (because he ate potatoes for breakfast and now his blood sugar is high, causing confusion) I am going to leave this in the Lord's hands.

Even tho he cheated by leaving early so he could have breakfast out, and even tho he just called me confused about how to fill out the forms (because he ate potatoes for breakfast and now his blood sugar is high, causing confusion) I am going to leave this in the Lord's hands.

Even tho he cheated by leaving early so he could have breakfast out, and even tho he just called me confused about how to fill out the forms (because he ate potatoes for breakfast and now his blood sugar is high, causing confusion) I am going to leave this in the Lord's hands.

Even tho he cheated by leaving early so he could have breakfast out, and even tho he just called me confused about how to fill out the forms (because he ate potatoes for breakfast and now his blood sugar is high, causing confusion) I am going to leave this in the Lord's hands.

I assure you the Lord can handle it my friend. The key is understanding that He will handle it on His time frame and not ours.

You hang tough

[itsrea]

I assure you the Lord can handle it my friend. The key is understanding that He will handle it on His time frame and not ours.

You hang toughI'm so tough I'm getting gator markings on my shins...

:whistle:

[rhet 2]

I'm so tough I'm getting gator markings on my shins...

:whistle:

As long as they're not on your teeth? :))

You'll make it, luv. The LORD will see that you do. :hug:

[itsrea]

Shoulda never let him go up to V.A. alone.... - 30 strips are supposed to last him for three months???

They can spray him with agent orange but they can't supply him with enough strips to test his blood every day when he gets diabetes from that agent orange?????

Go Figure.

They are assigning him his own dr who says they won't refill his aricept till they run their own tests and then the P.A. sent him home with the idea he probably does not have alzheimers (this without talking to his preferred physician, without seeing the tests that were run a couple of days ago) all based on Ricks accounting of what led up to his seeing his preferred physician in the first place.

Here is what happened: After a day of chopping wood and cleaning house and preparing foods for the super bowl party we drove the 3 miles into town to grab a sandwhich and when we pulled back into our drive he could not remember where the gear shift knob was, how to put the car into park, nor how to shut off the engine and remove the key.

Here is what he told the P.A.: he got into the car to go out for dinner and forgot how to put the transmission into park.

I said Rick, that's not what happened - he says it isn't? Are you sure? So I told him what did happen and he says that's not what I remember. I said well, it's what happened.. you don't put the car in park in order to drive to a restaurant and I wouldn't have LET you drive had you forgotten where the gear shift was. He says oh, ok.

Anyyway.. he's home, safe, tired, puzzled by all they asked and did, and thinking he doesn't have alzheimers cause him and some ******* from V.A. worked it all out.

Next time I'm going with him no matter what he says.

[itsrea]

As long as they're not on your teeth? :))

You'll make it, luv. The LORD will see that you do. :hug::clap: :)) :clap:

Thank you for the laugh and for the encouragement Rhet :)

[rhet 2]

:clap: :)) :clap:

Thank you for the laugh and for the encouragement Rhet :)

NP, heart after God's own. You keep me upbeat, too.

Yeah, time for a bit of "obstinate female" tactic, maybe. GO WITH HIM -- and read the VA a riot act about not enough of those blinking strips.

I pray the tactic works. Just be very WISE -- and cautious -- in how you use it, making sure the LORD sees the need for that tactic and wants you to use that one, instead of another.

Sheesh, the things we do for our men -- and they never see the sacrifice.

Which, is, of course, okay. They don't need to appreciate our sacrifice.

Just need to thrive and prosper.

Whether they appreciate our labors to help them thrive and prosper, or not.

:wall:

Walk in the Shadow of Wisdom's Skirts, according to Proverbs, and be the Woman of Great Value in Prov. 31, dearest. He'll keep you able to do so.

BTW: don't you just love the fact that Solomon cast Wisdom as a FEMALE? Helps offset the metaphor of the Whore of Babylon. Two female images set across from each other, one a whore for degradation and destruction of the male soul, the other Wisdom and the greatest treasure that enables a man to "sit in the gates" with the city "fathers" to teach theology while his woman cooks and sews and plants vineyards and earns the food to put in his belly --

"Strength and dignity are her clothing, And she smiles at the future. She opens her mouth in wisdom, And the teaching of kindness is on her tongue."

Be kind. Be wise. Be gentle and loyal and kind and faithful, seeking always the Wisdom of the LORD Himself.

Just be careful to avoid Sarah's screwup with Hagar the Horrible, and giving your man his Isaac of Promise instead.

And use the "obstinate dumb female" tactic if and when needed so that your man may thrive and prosper despite his best efforts not to.

But only when needed -- as determined by the LORD -- and may He give you the Wisdom of Solomon to "sense that your gain is good" (Prov. 31:18) -- critical skill, to sense when you're thinking about "pulling a Hagar" instead of waiting on the LORD and making like a Deborah.

"Charm is deceitful and beauty is empty, But a woman who fears the LORD, she shall be praised." May the LORD "Give you the product of your hands, and let your works praise you in the gates" (Prov. 31:30-31).

Fear the LORD and walk in Wisdom, for you are as Deborah, called to serve by helping a stubborn darling man thrive and prosper to "sit in the gates among the elders of the land."

With the grace of the Almighty, Who gave you this task, you'll do it.

Oh, yes, you WILL. For what task is beyond the skills of a Woman who fears the LORD and walks in the Shadow of Wisdom's skirts?

[itsrea]

NP, heart after God's own. You keep me upbeat, too.

Yeah, time for a bit of "obstinate female" tactic, maybe. GO WITH HIM -- and read the VA a riot act about not enough of those blinking strips.

I pray the tactic works. Just be very WISE -- and cautious -- in how you use it, making sure the LORD sees the need for that tactic and wants you to use that one, instead of another.

Sheesh, the things we do for our men -- and they never see the sacrifice.

Which, is, of course, okay. They don't need to appreciate our sacrifice.

Just need to thrive and prosper.

Whether they appreciate our labors to help them thrive and prosper, or not.

:wall:

Walk in the Shadow of Wisdom's Skirts, according to Proverbs, and be the Woman of Great Value in Prov. 31, dearest. He'll keep you able to do so.

BTW: don't you just love the fact that Solomon cast Wisdom as a FEMALE? Helps offset the metaphor of the Whore of Babylon. Two female images set across from each other, one a whore for degradation and destruction of the male soul, the other Wisdom and the greatest treasure that enables a man to "sit in the gates" with the city "fathers" to teach theology while his woman cooks and sews and plants vineyards and earns the food to put in his belly --

"Strength and dignity are her clothing, And she smiles at the future. She opens her mouth in wisdom, And the teaching of kindness is on her tongue."

Be kind. Be wise. Be gentle and loyal and kind and faithful, seeking always the Wisdom of the LORD Himself.

Just be careful to avoid Sarah's screwup with Hagar the Horrible, and giving your man his Isaac of Promise instead.

And use the "obstinate dumb female" tactic if and when needed so that your man may thrive and prosper despite his best efforts not to.

But only when needed -- as determined by the LORD -- and may He give you the Wisdom of Solomon to "sense that your gain is good" (Prov. 31:18) -- critical skill, to sense when you're thinking about "pulling a Hagar" instead of waiting on the LORD and making like a Deborah.

"Charm is deceitful and beauty is empty, But a woman who fears the LORD, she shall be praised." May the LORD "Give you the product of your hands, and let your works praise you in the gates" (Prov. 31:30-31).

Fear the LORD and walk in Wisdom, for you are as Deborah, called to serve by helping a stubborn darling man thrive and prosper to "sit in the gates among the elders of the land."

With the grace of the Almighty, Who gave you this task, you'll do it.

Oh, yes, you WILL. For what task is beyond the skills of a Woman who fears the LORD and walks in the Shadow of Wisdom's skirts?Proverbs is my favorite book.. it not only tells you what to do, and what not to do, but what's going to happen if you disobey... and with my short term memory problem and not being able to retain versus, that is a BIG plus lol.

And I do love your bringing that woman to my mind..

10 An excellent wife who can find?
She is far more precious than jewels.
11The heart of her husband trusts in her,
and he will have no lack of gain.
12She does him good, and not harm,
all the days of her life.
13She seeks wool and flax,
and works with willing hands.
14She is like the ships of the merchant;
she brings her food from afar.
15She rises while it is yet night
and provides food for her household
and portions for her maidens.
16She considers a field and buys it;
with the fruit of her hands she plants a vineyard.
17She dresses herself with strength
and makes her arms strong.
18She perceives that her merchandise is profitable.
Her lamp does not go out at night.
19She puts her hands to the distaff,
and her hands hold the spindle.
20She opens her hand to the poor
and reaches out her hands to the needy.
21She is not afraid of snow for her household,
for all her household are clothed in scarlet.
22She makes bed coverings for herself;
her clothing is fine linen and purple.
23Her husband is known in the gates
when he sits among the elders of the land.
24She makes linen garments and sells them;
she delivers sashes to the merchant.
25 Strength and dignity are her clothing,
and she laughs at the time to come.
26She opens her mouth with wisdom,
and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.
27She looks well to the ways of her household
and does not eat the bread of idleness.
28Her children rise up and call her blessed;
her husband also, and he praises her:
29"Many women have done excellently,
but you surpass them all."
30 Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain,
but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.
31Give her of the fruit of her hands,
and let her works praise her in the gates.

[itsrea]

Today Rick still lingers on the edge of confusion in some areas.. his sense of humor is sharp, his speech is clear, he was able to replace the element in the hotwater heater without any problems, but he is confused about other areas.. so I ask for prayer for him and for me as we struggle through today...

I'm keeping busy with my recipe thread, which is proving fun and instructional.. if any of you want to check it out please do so :)