You ASKED for it, You GOT it!! GKTW ALUMNI RETURN! UPDATE 1/9 MOVING DAY

[blessedmom4]

This will be short, I am SO tired; however, Quick update on my Dad. He was much tireder today, although they decreased his oxygen to 3 liters. They said they are moving him to the step-down unit tomorrow! We shall see...his mouth looks horrible and feels even worse. He has a "viral" infection they are treating with anti-virals, he can barely stand the pain. Even ice is excruciating. I feel so badly for him, swallowing is torture.

Originally Posted by DMGeurts

Just stopping by for a quick hello.

Continued prayers for your dad... I hope he doesn't try to rush himself to get better just to be home for the holidays - as I am sure he wants to be very badly.

I am very glad I copy and pasted your directions right away - LOL Maybe I will get brave soon and try making dumplings again. The standard joke in the house lately is that everything I make is boiled... So, I've been making every attempt to stick to this theme as much as possible. I would hate to disappoint.

I hope you have a wonderful day today and everything goes smoothly for you this weekend.

D~

Dad isn't rushing, but the docs sure are...they better slow thier roll, this is what happened three weeks ago...

Glad you got what you needed so you could boil some more food for the family. Hope you enjoyed your day and have a great weekend.

Originally Posted by DisNorth

Well I'm sending them your way!

Oh, I'd love to hear what you and the girls come up with!!

We brainstormed at the doctor and I didn't want to forget anything! Not sure what your Grandmother likes or what you have available in Canada, hope these make send, I am tired:
Service "coupons" for something she needs done: gardening, cleaning windows, scrub bathroom
scrapbook/photobook of her life through the years or a DVD of the same
does she like tea, coffee, hot chocolate? maybe a basket with her favorites. I have a great recipe for homemade hot chocolate and chocolate dipped plastic spoons for hot drinks.
custom made calendar using pics of family members and putting everyone's BD, etc on it
restaurant gift card
manicure, massage or hair gift card
movies tickets/gift card
gift card to a favorite food store, or specialty food store, such as a honey baked ham (do you have those)
Edible Arrangement (do you have them) or fruit from Harry and David
Gift cards for oil changes, car wash or gas if she drives
Fruit baskets, soup mix basket, themed basket of something she enjoys ie: dried pasta, sauce, bread, wine or juice, gourmet dessert mix
photo session with grandchildren and Grandmother
Does she send cards? How about a stationary basket, some pretty blank note cards, stationary, books of stamps
Does she play the lottery? Scratch off lottery tickets
Pay a utility bill for her
How about stocking her fridge/freezer with small meals you make while you are there or that you could “do together” and she could enjoy when you are gone...then when she doesn’t know it, put a special note on each one for her to read in your absence
Do you have Omaha Steaks in Canada? We received a gift once of steaks a long time ago and it was the BEST meat we ever ate! Lisa still talks about it (remember she is my meat loving girl)!
A “nut” basket, filled with a variety of nuts she enjoys (or make it candy, yumm).
Does she get as much snow as you? How about a snow removal service
ballet or theater tickets
Housecleaning service for the day
Oh no for an weekend. Hope it's not too bad. Thanksgiving is next thursday, right? (<-ignorant Canadian who doesn't get thanksgiving on thursday in winter and really doesn't get black friday.)

Prayers for all in need.

So much to do this weekend! Nothing bad, just busy. Black Friday is NOT the Black Friday I grew up with! I used to love it; however, when you have no money it takes on a different "tone"

Thanksgiving IS the last Thursday in November, good job ...and you are FAR from ignorant!

For us, it is a non-commersial holiday to enjoy family and count our many, many blessings!

The first Thanksgiving was celebrated to give thanks for the bountiful crops and to Thank the Native Americans for teaching the pilgrims how to plant and harvest in their new country.


I will be back.

[ladylyons]

Ok I planned on posting some pictures tonight but photobucket is giving me issues!! I have a few cute ones uploaded but it's not wanting to open my albums or pictures so I'll try again tomorrow.

Glad your dad is being moved but hope it's not too soon and you have no more set backs.

[DisNorth]

Judy - I hope that the doctors don't push your Father too fast to make him worst. His mouth sounds so painful, praying it gets better!

Originally Posted by miprender

My Grandmother use to love the baskets from Harry & David. Or maybe some gift cards to a local resturant.

Originally Posted by blessedmom4

We brainstormed at the doctor and I didn't want to forget anything! Not sure what your Grandmother likes or what you have available in Canada, hope these make send, I am tired:
Service "coupons" for something she needs done: gardening, cleaning windows, scrub bathroom
scrapbook/photobook of her life through the years or a DVD of the same
does she like tea, coffee, hot chocolate? maybe a basket with her favorites. I have a great recipe for homemade hot chocolate and chocolate dipped plastic spoons for hot drinks.
custom made calendar using pics of family members and putting everyone's BD, etc on it
restaurant gift card
manicure, massage or hair gift card
movies tickets/gift card
gift card to a favorite food store, or specialty food store, such as a honey baked ham (do you have those)
Edible Arrangement (do you have them) or fruit from Harry and David
Gift cards for oil changes, car wash or gas if she drives
Fruit baskets, soup mix basket, themed basket of something she enjoys ie: dried pasta, sauce, bread, wine or juice, gourmet dessert mix
photo session with grandchildren and Grandmother
Does she send cards? How about a stationary basket, some pretty blank note cards, stationary, books of stamps
Does she play the lottery? Scratch off lottery tickets
Pay a utility bill for her
How about stocking her fridge/freezer with small meals you make while you are there or that you could “do together” and she could enjoy when you are gone...then when she doesn’t know it, put a special note on each one for her to read in your absence
Do you have Omaha Steaks in Canada? We received a gift once of steaks a long time ago and it was the BEST meat we ever ate! Lisa still talks about it (remember she is my meat loving girl)!
A “nut” basket, filled with a variety of nuts she enjoys (or make it candy, yumm).
Does she get as much snow as you? How about a snow removal service
ballet or theater tickets
Housecleaning service for the day

Thanks for all the great idea! You both mentioned Harry and David so I had to google them. There stuff does look super yummy! Must be some really good pears...

My sister already took the calandar idea, been doing it for a couple years, with everyone's birthday and everything too. I never get one, though

I acualy think the steak idea is a great idea(we don't have Omaha Steaks, though). My grandparents were beef farmers before retiring and moving off the farm. They appreciate good meat, but can't supply themselves with it anymore.

I like the idea of leaving the notes with the meals.

I couldn't get off of the baking rut. I give baking at christmas as a gift to all my friends/co-workers in town but all my best recipes are from my grandma and she makes them better than me. She bake alot, she always has a stash of stuff in the frezzer and all my cousins know where their favorets are stored.

Ok, now my problem isn't thinking of an idea it's chosing an idea.

And I have to stop rambling and go to bed!

[blessedmom4]

I will be in and out, but knew if I didn't answer a few messages at a time, they wouldn't get answered. David has woodworking post first this AM, then fire fighting.

Originally Posted by mommy2mrb

great news your dad's oxygen is getting better! prayers for his mouth sores, hope he enjoys his eggs!
Thanks darling...he ate about 1?3 of a soft egg sandwich before he was in agony.
nope no PTR for me, might just do TR for our DLR trips and maybe a PTR later for our WDW trip.
You don't like rambling along do you...I can't seem to stop rambling...I think it good or bad, I write it...maybe I should stop...
yes I called the DR right after opening and got a call about 1030 everything was done, will pick them up today!
YEA!!! About time they did it!
good luck with the crazy weekend! just a few more days til Thanksgiving and you can relax a bit
Found out the girls don't have theater class Monday...so just woodworking! Shorter night.
Megan will be gone overnight for her choir retreat and I get a ladies night out with Megan's bffs mom! been a long time and looking forward to it!

continued prayers to all in need

Hope you had a blast Lisa, you so deserve it! I KNOW Megan had fun.

Originally Posted by lovethattink

Glad to hear your dad is doing better!

Hope your mom's appt goes well today.

We have had a busy morning. JJ has already been to the doctor AND finished his entire day of school. He was so proud of himself because he has never finished this early in the morning. Now he can enjoy his day and I can attempt to get the house in order for company. Dh's parents arrive tomorrow for a week.

Thanks Tink. How is your Dad dong? Prayers continue. Have fun with your in-laws, I am certain JJ will enjoy that (I hope) and tell him I am so proud of him for his accomplishments in school!

Originally Posted by KatMark

Judy, I'm so glad dad's oxygen is better. As much as he wants to go home and as much as you would like him home, he really shouldn't rush it. I've been in that sitaution before of my dad being rushed home only to end up back at the hospital a few days later. Please tell him to be patient and heal first.

You are so right Kathy, I was shocked to hear them say he was moving today. I have already made it known he better not be put back on the floor he was on or I am putting on my "Angry" hat...the likes of which they really don't want to see. I haven't had to wear that hat in years (I don't like it), but I will to protect my Dad. I strongly feel they caused this major set back. I am sorry you had that experience for your Dad. I also know how much you miss him . Honestly it isn't my Dad rushing, it is the hosptial. They must be getting some flack from insurance again.


Praying for all here, have a fabulous day! I wil be checking in periodically when I have the means.

[reelmom]

Praying that they are making the right decision with moving your Dad into a step-down. Also praying that the ulcers heal quickly and his recovery becomes quicker.

How is Lisa's stomach doing lately? Is she still leaking?

[mommy2mrb]

prayers for your dad's move and that they are rushing it again, sorry his mouth isn't any better.

yay for a short Monday night, you won't know what to do with yourself

thankful Emily's surgery went well, prayers for her recovery and that her pain gets better!

continued prayers for all other's in need too

last night was fun, yummy food and some great music, the guy plays an electric ukelea (sp) was amazing the different instruments sounds he could make with it and his computer board. ended up staying at school until 630, heading out to make the Starbucks run for the parents and will stay again until 1 (a mom has to leave early) then going out to see a movie with friends.

hope you get some fun mixed in with the weekend too! hugs to all!

[KatMark]

Judy, we are almost in Dubuque....visiting the kids for the weekend; I will keep your dad in my thoughts and prayers

[lovethattink]

Sorry to hear about your dad's mouth sores. Is the viral infection what's causing the mouth sores or is that a totally different ailment?

My dad is doing ok. He had one day where he was very confused, maybe because they are tapering him off the seizure medicine? My mom is very depressed with the holidays approaching and her up north and all of us down south. I had invited them and my in-laws for Thanksgiving. Even offered to pay their way down when airfare was $69 each way, but she said no. Now she is regretting that decision, especially since my in-laws are arriving today. She is also sad that she'll miss JJ's performance in a couple weeks, he has a play and a showcase coming up.

By the way, how is Lisa's acting going? I remember a while back you said she got the lead. When is that show?

[VBAndrea]

I hope your Dad's move goes well

Prayers to all in need.

[ladylyons]

Finally got a couple pictures uploaded from Halloween.

[blessedmom4]

Originally Posted by babynala

Glad to hear that your dad is doing better. I hope the sores in his mouth clear up so he will be in less pain and can be more comfortable. I can not believe that the hospital staff is so lax about trying to keep someone in isolation from getting an infection. Isn't that the whole point??? I guess they are not worried about getting anything from their patients either. I'm happy to hear that your mom is speaking up to protect your dad. I know you are a great advocate but that his not something that everyone is comfortable with. You are a great influence!

I hope Christian can get some news from the doctor when he has his tests.

Thanksgiving will be a nice reprieve from the doctors office visits and all the running around. I hope your dad continues to improve.

Thanks for the prayers and good thoughts Liz. You are so right about the isolation, I get frustrated when I see medical staff not doing what they should. I was such a fanatic when I worked dialysis because of all of the blood, I would strip down on the porch and head straight to the shower. Christian was a toddler and I didn't ant to even touch him till I got clean, I don't understand staff with no concerns for themselves. I keep hearing, I have already been exposed...I look forward to NO doctors appts, that is certain! I truly appreciate the good wishes for Christian, I just want him to feel good, he deserves so much. I hope everyone at YOUR house is well and you are enjoying the anticipation of a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Originally Posted by Panotchr

Emily's surgery was delayed a couple of hours but she went back about 10:45. She was back in the recovery area by 12:15. She was awake and talking to me. That is always a good sign! She asked for juice and then crackers. It was amazing she was doing so well! Once she'd eaten that she asked me to get her a sandwich. I walked over to the little sandwich shop and she was very happy to eat the Italian sub she asked for!
We are staying at a lady's home in Lanham, MD. She very generously opens her home to our neurosurgeon's patients. It is like a bed and breakfast for surgery recovery. Emily has been resting a lot. She's battling nausea and her incision site is sore and tender. She's had a headache on the left side of her head and I hope it is from adjusting to the new pressures. She will see the doctor again on Monday. She is having TIA symptoms and will see the hematologist on Tuesday.
Hope your dad continues to improve. Love and prayers to all. xo

Kelly, I am so thankful you updated us on Emily and I pray the headache has dissipated. I am also grateful you have a place to stay while in MD, it gets VERY expensive with medical travel so far from home and I am happy you have safe accommodations! HUGE love, hugs and prayers coming your way and for the family as they head to the In-laws Tuesday (I think I have the right date...). Let me know when you get back, maybe we can have a little Christmas fun/get together at our house.

Originally Posted by miprender

Glad that your dad seems to be getting better.
Thank you Michelle. What your your cutie pies foe Halloween? Did you ever post pics of MNSHP anywhere? Have your friends completed their move to NC? When are you coming to visit me???


So sorry to read Alexa is going through such an emotional time.
Andrea, how is Alexa?
But so happy to read that you have some interest on your house.

What is the news on the contract??? Did they counter your counter-offer?

My Grandmother use to love the baskets from Harry & David. Or maybe some gift cards to a local resturant.

That was a GREAT idea about Harry and David, prettiest fruit I ever saw. My great-aunt used to send us fruit when we were younger from H&D! Greta idea! She is in heaven now, she was a class act.

[blessedmom4]

Originally Posted by ladylyons

Ok I planned on posting some pictures tonight but photobucket is giving me issues!! I have a few cute ones uploaded but it's not wanting to open my albums or pictures so I'll try again tomorrow.

Glad your dad is being moved but hope it's not too soon and you have no more set backs.

Thanks Sandra. As of 9 PM they had NOT moved him out of the unit because they didn't have a bed on the step-down unit and I was happy!

Originally Posted by DisNorth

Judy - I hope that the doctors don't push your Father too fast to make him worst. His mouth sounds so painful, praying it gets better![/B]
It is so sore to look at I can only imagine how it feels to rry and eat...and he isn't...



Thanks for all the great idea! You both mentioned Harry and David so I had to google them. There stuff does look super yummy! Must be some really good pears...
I didn't care for the pears as much as those fabulously expensive apples!
My sister already took the calandar idea, been doing it for a couple years, with everyone's birthday and everything too. I never get one, though
You SHOULD get one, I know you adore her children.
I acualy think the steak idea is a great idea(we don't have Omaha Steaks, though). My grandparents were beef farmers before retiring and moving off the farm. They appreciate good meat, but can't supply themselves with it anymore.
Then I think the steak idea would be a huge hit! I learn something new about you all of the time.

I like the idea of leaving the notes with the meals.
Me too.
I couldn't get off of the baking rut. I give baking at christmas as a gift to all my friends/co-workers in town but all my best recipes are from my grandma and she makes them better than me. She bake alot, she always has a stash of stuff in the frezzer and all my cousins know where their favorets are stored.
I bet you are a great baker! Working on something for Pete's work on Monday...I hope to post pics tomorrow. I made a tester batch today.
Ok, now my problem isn't thinking of an idea it's chosing an idea.
That is a good dilemma!
And I have to stop rambling and go to bed!

Hope your day was good and you slept well.

Originally Posted by ladylyons

Finally got a couple pictures uploaded from Halloween.

They are absolutely precious! Thank you for sharing!

[blessedmom4]

Originally Posted by reelmom

Praying that they are making the right decision with moving your Dad into a step-down. Also praying that the ulcers heal quickly and his recovery becomes quicker.
I truly appreciate the prayers, they mean a lot to mean and it means a lot for you to let me know.
How is Lisa's stomach doing lately? Is she still leaking?

I know I write about a lot and forget to come back and update, thanks for asking. Her stomach...is NOT leaking! She does have some over-granualtion tissue we are watching; however, she said just last night as I was cleaning the wound area how nice it was to NOT have a hole in her stomach. The wound is almost five inches long were they closed her. She says it is "sensitive, but it is "fine"...she never complains. I am grateful. I also feel very blessed we aren't in Philly for so many reasons. I am not feeling as crazed as I was the past two weeks, so that is also a great thing.

Originally Posted by mommy2mrb

prayers for your dad's move and that they are rushing it again, sorry his mouth isn't any better.
I was so happy they didn't have a bed for him on the step-down unit.
yay for a short Monday night, you won't know what to do with yourself
Oh yes I will! Maybe I will sit down and watch dancing with the stars!
thankful Emily's surgery went well, prayers for her recovery and that her pain gets better!

continued prayers for all other's in need too

last night was fun, yummy food and some great music, the guy plays an electric ukelea (sp) was amazing the different instruments sounds he could make with it and his computer board. ended up staying at school until 630, heading out to make the Starbucks run for the parents and will stay again until 1 (a mom has to leave early) then going out to see a movie with friends.

hope you get some fun mixed in with the weekend too! hugs to all!

Sounds like you are having a great weekend my sister, as is Megan and I can't think of two more deserving ladies! I can't WAIT to see pics of the new room makeover!

Originally Posted by KatMark

Judy, we are almost in Dubuque....visiting the kids for the weekend; I will keep your dad in my thoughts and prayers

Kathy, I hope you are having a fun, relaxing weekend with your baby and his bride to be!

Originally Posted by lovethattink

Sorry to hear about your dad's mouth sores. Is the viral infection what's causing the mouth sores or is that a totally different ailment?
Yes, viral infection in the mouth, looks HORRIBLE! He has never had anything like it in his life and I would like to know were it came from. He has been inpatient 30 days now.
My dad is doing ok. He had one day where he was very confused, maybe because they are tapering him off the seizure medicine? My mom is very depressed with the holidays approaching and her up north and all of us down south. I had invited them and my in-laws for Thanksgiving. Even offered to pay their way down when airfare was $69 each way, but she said no. Now she is regretting that decision, especially since my in-laws are arriving today. She is also sad that she'll miss JJ's performance in a couple weeks, he has a play and a showcase coming up.
Oh I am so sorry they will to be joining you and I know how hard this is on your Mom. HUGE hugs and I hope the in-law visit goes well.
By the way, how is Lisa's acting going? I remember a while back you said she got the lead. When is that show?

She LOVES musical theater. They will have a showing of it in early December and then do a scene from it (and another piece or to) for their showcase in March. She also has a voice studio performance November 30 she is very excited about...I LOVE to hear her sing!

Originally Posted by VBAndrea

I hope your Dad's move goes well

Prayers to all in need.

Thank you Andrea. How are YOU doing??? How is Alexa? Huge prayers continue for your family. What was the outcome of the offer on the house? I hope you are getting some rest and fun in this weekend. I miss you.

[blessedmom4]

Some of the folks at Pete’s new company have a tradition of dressing together as a theme for Halloween. This year was The Addam’s Family. Pete was Gomez. I think they look GREAT!

[ladylyons]

Originally Posted by blessedmom4

Thanks Sandra. As of 9 PM they had NOT moved him out of the unit because they didn't have a bed on the step-down unit and I was happy!

Glad he wasn't moved!! It sounds like he's not ready. Hope the sores start to go down and away so he can eat and not be in pain.

Originally Posted by blessedmom4

They are absolutely precious! Thank you for sharing!

Thank you!! They had a blast trick or treating with a friend from school!!

Yeah for Lisa no longer leaking and no longer having a hole!! Hope things continue on the right path for her.

Also love the pics from Pete's work!! Everyone looks great!!!