Ask Trinity's Terry Ramsey about her nephew Scott Geiger. He's the piper in the kilts who had a role in a production of one of Mom's favorite musicals...Brigadoon.
May 27, 2009
Two for Jane: A friend's nephew & a favorite musical
Ask Trinity's Terry Ramsey about her nephew Scott Geiger. He's the piper in the kilts who had a role in a production of one of Mom's favorite musicals...Brigadoon.
Wednesdy, May 27th,2009
Surprise! I slept in my own bed last night. I signed in as an observation patient about 9:30am and reported to the 7th floor at eleven thirty, the nurses with Dr. Fredric and said send me to outpatient Chemo. By a little after 4:00 pm, Jill picked me up and I was home. Today I go in for my first shot, at the dr.’s office and this afternoon Jill and I will pick up Merlene and I’ll get to Dr. Block’s for my vitamin therapy.
In between trips to the hospital for me, Jill has been busy at her machine. I now have a different topper for every day of the week and more. There are four cute sun hats from the Cariker of West Columbia, a black, broad brimmed hat from Abby and Talbots; a pink turban and wig and three turbans courtesy of Jill. Wow! I can really go out in public in style.
Thanks to the good nurses in outpatient infusion, I was out by 4:00. They labored over my machine which had a contrary filter or something. The machine keot stopping, but thanks to their persistence, it finally worked. I think Jessie, my nurse and the wife of s seminary student said a few prayers that helped. Sorry I didn’t get the name of the other nurse who practically stood on her head to unclog the filter. They both deserve much praise.
Later on Thursday or Friday Allan on Mikha will come relieve Jill. Thursday, the church people return from France, except Judy and Leigh, who’ll be travelling on to Germany to visit the Schmidts, Ursela’s parents. They’ll return next Tuesday.
Forgot to mention to all the Trinity folks, soon after I got home yesterday Bill and Elaine Krupp came by for a lovely visit. They send their love to all of you. I’m glad Bill was with Elaine, He’s lost over 100 lbs. following by-pass and insertion of a pace maker.
They had been in Plano getting ready to renew their Marriage Encounter ministry.
All is well at 2621 Waits Ave., thanks to your continuing prayers.
In between trips to the hospital for me, Jill has been busy at her machine. I now have a different topper for every day of the week and more. There are four cute sun hats from the Cariker of West Columbia, a black, broad brimmed hat from Abby and Talbots; a pink turban and wig and three turbans courtesy of Jill. Wow! I can really go out in public in style.
Thanks to the good nurses in outpatient infusion, I was out by 4:00. They labored over my machine which had a contrary filter or something. The machine keot stopping, but thanks to their persistence, it finally worked. I think Jessie, my nurse and the wife of s seminary student said a few prayers that helped. Sorry I didn’t get the name of the other nurse who practically stood on her head to unclog the filter. They both deserve much praise.
Later on Thursday or Friday Allan on Mikha will come relieve Jill. Thursday, the church people return from France, except Judy and Leigh, who’ll be travelling on to Germany to visit the Schmidts, Ursela’s parents. They’ll return next Tuesday.
Forgot to mention to all the Trinity folks, soon after I got home yesterday Bill and Elaine Krupp came by for a lovely visit. They send their love to all of you. I’m glad Bill was with Elaine, He’s lost over 100 lbs. following by-pass and insertion of a pace maker.
They had been in Plano getting ready to renew their Marriage Encounter ministry.
All is well at 2621 Waits Ave., thanks to your continuing prayers.
May 21, 2009
Thursday, May 21st/ Ascension Day
esday morning John took me to the lab first and then to the Dr. He seemed pleased with my progress. Rather than wait for lab results, the office said they’d report to me later in the day. Dr. F. has requested I go into the hospital as an observation patient next Tuesday morning for my 3rd chemo. Not out patient, but as a temporary (overnight) patient. I think he anticipates my white count to drop faster, and would like an excuse to keep me in and treat me. Tuesday is the 26th of May and he will be out of the office from June 4th thru the 10th. I’ll go prepared with books, busy work, toothbrush, etc. I think I said something in the beginning about becoming a “desert mother” and it looks like I’m getting the opportunity to make that prophecy happen.
After our visit to the Dr’s, we stopped by the Woman’s Club to say hello to sister Judy. Over coffee and skillet cake provided by Michael, the chef, we had a grand chat. Michael is the one who sent the bread pudding to the hospital with Judy, He’s quite the chef. Thank you, Michael!
Dinner time found the girls, Abby, Gwen and me at Pappado’s for dinner with John. On our way home, son Will called to say he and Vicke would be here today to relieve John as caretakers. I’ve enjoyed seeing John, but with three dogs and three females, I think he was ready for a break.
I’ll be glad to finish with my third chemo. Only three more chemos after that and surgery. There still looms the prospect of radiation, I can hope that won’t be necessary
Hope you have a good and safe Memorial Day Holiday.
After our visit to the Dr’s, we stopped by the Woman’s Club to say hello to sister Judy. Over coffee and skillet cake provided by Michael, the chef, we had a grand chat. Michael is the one who sent the bread pudding to the hospital with Judy, He’s quite the chef. Thank you, Michael!
Dinner time found the girls, Abby, Gwen and me at Pappado’s for dinner with John. On our way home, son Will called to say he and Vicke would be here today to relieve John as caretakers. I’ve enjoyed seeing John, but with three dogs and three females, I think he was ready for a break.
I’ll be glad to finish with my third chemo. Only three more chemos after that and surgery. There still looms the prospect of radiation, I can hope that won’t be necessary
Hope you have a good and safe Memorial Day Holiday.
May 18, 2009
Monday, May 18, 2009
Changing of the guards today. Debbie left for Odessa where her mother is having some minor surgery. John Mossbarger arrived from Houston and will be my major caretaker for the next few days. John is my former husband and father to our children. Since they had other commitments right now, he has graciously offered his help. He is cooking tonight, taking Abby, Gwen and me to dinner at the Olive Garden.
I’m really feeling well, but it gives the family a feeling of security to know someone else is in charge, just in case...
Yesterday was fun with the return of Gwen from the lake. She, Debbie and I had a pleasant afternoon catching up. When Abby returned from work, we all had a great dinner of roast chicken, baked potatoes, and asparagus. I had also made some stuffing for the bird with bread, onions, celery, and apple and had that with gravy. I passed on the potato and made a pig of myself with the dressing. We also had fresh watermelon – delicious.
Earlier Tracie had stopped by to introduce her newest “child” , a male mixed breed dog rescued from the Humane Society, he was happy to join her household with a ready-made harem of three females. The nicest thing was, Tracie hired our favorite cleaning lady to come clean some time when the house needs it and I’m not up to it.
People have inundated me with wonderful cards, thoughts, prayers and fun little gifts. My sister had sent me funny mystery books just right for reading with chemo brain.
I’ve begun collecting random acts of kindness to me and to others I’ve observed. If you keep your eyes open, there is a lot of love circulating in this old world. The 5:30 news on NBC has been featuring such things. Good news is really GOOD.
I’m really feeling well, but it gives the family a feeling of security to know someone else is in charge, just in case...
Yesterday was fun with the return of Gwen from the lake. She, Debbie and I had a pleasant afternoon catching up. When Abby returned from work, we all had a great dinner of roast chicken, baked potatoes, and asparagus. I had also made some stuffing for the bird with bread, onions, celery, and apple and had that with gravy. I passed on the potato and made a pig of myself with the dressing. We also had fresh watermelon – delicious.
Earlier Tracie had stopped by to introduce her newest “child” , a male mixed breed dog rescued from the Humane Society, he was happy to join her household with a ready-made harem of three females. The nicest thing was, Tracie hired our favorite cleaning lady to come clean some time when the house needs it and I’m not up to it.
People have inundated me with wonderful cards, thoughts, prayers and fun little gifts. My sister had sent me funny mystery books just right for reading with chemo brain.
I’ve begun collecting random acts of kindness to me and to others I’ve observed. If you keep your eyes open, there is a lot of love circulating in this old world. The 5:30 news on NBC has been featuring such things. Good news is really GOOD.
May 16, 2009
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Tuesday, I had a Dr.’s appointment, with a lab before to check my blood levels. Again, my white cell count was down. Dr. Frederic gave me the option of going home and checking my temp hourly or going to the hospital. I choose the latter since Judy and Leigh were leaving Thursday for England and I didn’t want to put a kink in their plans. So I spent the next three days on the 7th floor of All Saints being treated like a queen. IK learned even more about white cells and cancer. Although each person is different, I may be facing more of this isolation with the next four chemos.
The only drawback to this is keeping busy in my room. Fortunately, I have a years worth of reading to catch up on.
Many thanks to all who were there for me; Jacque Cage took me to the Dr.’s and stayed with me until I was admitted (blessings on her!); all the nurses who were such angels; in fact, all the staff – even the nutrition department who had to deal with a healthy, but cranky patient.
All the people who found their way to my room were real bright spots who helped break the monotony.
Each trip along this journey is full of learning opportunities. One really nice surprise was on a walk to the snack machine. There was a couple who were just finishing loading it and it turned out to be the same people I’d met while working the 2nd floor waiting room of the Andrews building. Instead of spending my money they gave me a pack of Skittles to help keep my mouth from drying out = what nice people! And dear sister Judy brought me yummy bread pudding from the Women’s Club =and then Friday was my ride home. Also she brought another funny book to entertain me about true Southern Belles.
Dear Debbie arrived Friday in time for pizza and some of my favorite TV shows.
And finally, it was nice to sleep in my own bed. Thanks for more prayers – they really brighten my day.
One more thing, I was happy to spy they are working on the volunteer garden. It was difficult to tell exactly how it looked from the 7th floor, but I’m delighted to see it progressing.
The only drawback to this is keeping busy in my room. Fortunately, I have a years worth of reading to catch up on.
Many thanks to all who were there for me; Jacque Cage took me to the Dr.’s and stayed with me until I was admitted (blessings on her!); all the nurses who were such angels; in fact, all the staff – even the nutrition department who had to deal with a healthy, but cranky patient.
All the people who found their way to my room were real bright spots who helped break the monotony.
Each trip along this journey is full of learning opportunities. One really nice surprise was on a walk to the snack machine. There was a couple who were just finishing loading it and it turned out to be the same people I’d met while working the 2nd floor waiting room of the Andrews building. Instead of spending my money they gave me a pack of Skittles to help keep my mouth from drying out = what nice people! And dear sister Judy brought me yummy bread pudding from the Women’s Club =and then Friday was my ride home. Also she brought another funny book to entertain me about true Southern Belles.
Dear Debbie arrived Friday in time for pizza and some of my favorite TV shows.
And finally, it was nice to sleep in my own bed. Thanks for more prayers – they really brighten my day.
One more thing, I was happy to spy they are working on the volunteer garden. It was difficult to tell exactly how it looked from the 7th floor, but I’m delighted to see it progressing.
May 6, 2009
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
First, a correction on yesterday’s blog: Judy and Leigh leave Thursday, May 14Th for England, France and Germany. Debbie will be with me then and other family members will follow,
Yesterday my sister Judy was my chauffeur to my chemo appointment at All Saints 7th floor outpatient, well run by two excellent and kind nurses and a tech. It is a very busy place but well run.
Before going up, I stopped by Starbucks for a smoothie. I found a replacement for my travel cup, It now has family pictures around the cup, including my family, my Kanuga class and a picture of the presiding bishop to symbolize my church family. So I carry my prayers with me.
Since there was plenty of quiet waiting time, I was able to finish a book I’ve been reading – a Matthew Fox book titled Creativity. The last chapters were especially so, talking about the lack of creative expression for children in our schools and universities. I wish every teacher, professor and administrator would read and consider,
Today I tried to behave, but Merlene and I did go to vitamin therapy this afternoon. Other than that, I read, wrote letters and did some sedentary straightening of drawers.
We’ll see what tomorrow brings when the steroids wear off. I have a feeling it will be nap time and easy books to read or TV to watch. My chemo brain will be at low tide.
Yesterday my sister Judy was my chauffeur to my chemo appointment at All Saints 7th floor outpatient, well run by two excellent and kind nurses and a tech. It is a very busy place but well run.
Before going up, I stopped by Starbucks for a smoothie. I found a replacement for my travel cup, It now has family pictures around the cup, including my family, my Kanuga class and a picture of the presiding bishop to symbolize my church family. So I carry my prayers with me.
Since there was plenty of quiet waiting time, I was able to finish a book I’ve been reading – a Matthew Fox book titled Creativity. The last chapters were especially so, talking about the lack of creative expression for children in our schools and universities. I wish every teacher, professor and administrator would read and consider,
Today I tried to behave, but Merlene and I did go to vitamin therapy this afternoon. Other than that, I read, wrote letters and did some sedentary straightening of drawers.
We’ll see what tomorrow brings when the steroids wear off. I have a feeling it will be nap time and easy books to read or TV to watch. My chemo brain will be at low tide.
May 5, 2009
Tuesday, My 5,2009
Today I had my second chemo at All Saints. All went well and I'm pleased to announc my white count is high normal. The lesson I learned last time was not to overwork my body, so I'm trying to behave.
Judy and Leigh leave Friday for England, France and Germany. And Debbie(David' wife) is coming to "babysit" me. I'll have real life nurse in charge! With her expertice and my previous experience we'll do fine.
Now to all you wonderful people who have sent cards and notes and goodie treasures, my grateful thanks for your thouhtfulness. It puts me to shame to remember when a friend was dealing with some problem and I didn't respond. Thank y0u for another lesson on how to love; you've been takng lesson from God.
Judy and Leigh leave Friday for England, France and Germany. And Debbie(David' wife) is coming to "babysit" me. I'll have real life nurse in charge! With her expertice and my previous experience we'll do fine.
Now to all you wonderful people who have sent cards and notes and goodie treasures, my grateful thanks for your thouhtfulness. It puts me to shame to remember when a friend was dealing with some problem and I didn't respond. Thank y0u for another lesson on how to love; you've been takng lesson from God.
May 3, 2009
May 3,2009
My last post was a week late due to technical difficulties. I was not meant for the computer age. Thanks to my dear son Allan and my son-in- law, Leigh, I'm now back in business.
Ths week on Wednesday I'll have my second round of chemo as an outpatient at All Saints. I can guarantee you I will be puttng my visualiztion sklls to work. Angels and saints help me to make the most of my treatments. I 'll need to search for a saint to put in charge of my brain. Chemo has strange effets on that organ, too. The nice thing is God is in charge, so I can count on Him.
For those of you who know, I've spent the last two years studying to be a spiritual director or as I prefer, an Anam Cara which is Celtic for soul friend. Altough I could not attend the final intensive at the Haden Instite, I was delighted to find they had awarded me a certificate and placque. I really feel honored.
On to the next step. Pease keep those prayers and good thoughts coming.
Ths week on Wednesday I'll have my second round of chemo as an outpatient at All Saints. I can guarantee you I will be puttng my visualiztion sklls to work. Angels and saints help me to make the most of my treatments. I 'll need to search for a saint to put in charge of my brain. Chemo has strange effets on that organ, too. The nice thing is God is in charge, so I can count on Him.
For those of you who know, I've spent the last two years studying to be a spiritual director or as I prefer, an Anam Cara which is Celtic for soul friend. Altough I could not attend the final intensive at the Haden Instite, I was delighted to find they had awarded me a certificate and placque. I really feel honored.
On to the next step. Pease keep those prayers and good thoughts coming.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Yesterday and the day before were the best days yet! Friday my son Will and his son Jack, arrived from Rosesharon for a visit. Saturday they were big help with some projects around the house. That morning Father Fred brought me communion. We had a wonderful talk which gave me much to ponder.
Judy and Leigh cooked a grand feast and the meal was capped by a cake made for me by Will. It was a recipe Mimi, a good friend, had shared with him. It’s a family favorite at their home. I was glad I felt well and could truly enjoy their visit.
Last night was a restless night for sleep, however. I finally realized there was something God wanted me to think about. A remark I made to Fr. Fred about somber waiting rooms haunted me. By this time it was one in the morning so I read the daily office. Three good Psalms, and then a passage from Daniel. It concerned a dream Nebbacanezer had that Daniel was to interpret for him. Somehow it didn’t register. I guess I was tired; finished the Daily office and went back to bed. Then I dreamed my own dream. I awoke in a cabin similar to those friends and where I have stayed in Flat Rock. Outside was a baby. Judy and I called 911; they ignored our concerns. Finally, I recalled that you could take a baby into a hospital or fire department. Sadly, we felt the baby had been abandoned because she was not developing the way she should have for her size and age. She had been loved, judging from the way she had been cared for and was beautifully dressed. Yet there was failure to thrive. How could a woman with breast cancer and her family care for this child?
We took her to the nearest hospital to turn her in. There we were asked to fill in some information about her, and as we left, we passed her in the same bassinet with another baby, also abandoned… and beyond them three more babies, all abandoned. How sad! The dream ended. What did it mean? I’ve come to the conclusion the meaning for me had to do with those silent, somber faces I had discussed with Fr. Fred I had seen in the waiting rooms.
I cannot change these folks in one short waiting room stay, but I can do something. All children like bright shiny pennies – at least those raised in the depression. I will have a large jar of bright, shiny copper pennies with me as I wait. Pulling it out, I’ll announce to those waiting, “A penny for your thoughts, but only positive thoughts get the pennies!”
What is your good thought of the day? Share it with me on my blog. You might earn a bright, shiny new penny!
Judy and Leigh cooked a grand feast and the meal was capped by a cake made for me by Will. It was a recipe Mimi, a good friend, had shared with him. It’s a family favorite at their home. I was glad I felt well and could truly enjoy their visit.
Last night was a restless night for sleep, however. I finally realized there was something God wanted me to think about. A remark I made to Fr. Fred about somber waiting rooms haunted me. By this time it was one in the morning so I read the daily office. Three good Psalms, and then a passage from Daniel. It concerned a dream Nebbacanezer had that Daniel was to interpret for him. Somehow it didn’t register. I guess I was tired; finished the Daily office and went back to bed. Then I dreamed my own dream. I awoke in a cabin similar to those friends and where I have stayed in Flat Rock. Outside was a baby. Judy and I called 911; they ignored our concerns. Finally, I recalled that you could take a baby into a hospital or fire department. Sadly, we felt the baby had been abandoned because she was not developing the way she should have for her size and age. She had been loved, judging from the way she had been cared for and was beautifully dressed. Yet there was failure to thrive. How could a woman with breast cancer and her family care for this child?
We took her to the nearest hospital to turn her in. There we were asked to fill in some information about her, and as we left, we passed her in the same bassinet with another baby, also abandoned… and beyond them three more babies, all abandoned. How sad! The dream ended. What did it mean? I’ve come to the conclusion the meaning for me had to do with those silent, somber faces I had discussed with Fr. Fred I had seen in the waiting rooms.
I cannot change these folks in one short waiting room stay, but I can do something. All children like bright shiny pennies – at least those raised in the depression. I will have a large jar of bright, shiny copper pennies with me as I wait. Pulling it out, I’ll announce to those waiting, “A penny for your thoughts, but only positive thoughts get the pennies!”
What is your good thought of the day? Share it with me on my blog. You might earn a bright, shiny new penny!
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