As the year comes to a close

I reflect on what has transpired over the last year. Birthdays were celebrated, some loved ones passed on, and the end of year proved to be turbulent. Hopefully 2009 will bring back jobs for loved ones and things won't seem so unsettling. In 2009 we will be welcoming a new baby into Gary's family. There will also be changes at work. My former priest said years ago that 'fear is worshiping a false God.' He said that if 'you truly believe, you shouldn't have anything to worry about.' Great words, hard to follow. This coming year will test me in many ways. I hope I can keep those words in perspective.

Sasha

Over the last few months one of our dogs has been sick off an on. Nothing consistent, other than what seems to be some stomach discomfort. Last Friday she went back to the vet and it appeared on an x-ray that she has a mass or something in/around her colon. Today we took her to a specialist that did an ultrasound. The vet said that if she were much older, she would think that it is cancer for sure. But, since she's 3.5 years old, it does not make sense. We are trying a few medication options to rule out some other possibilities. If they don't work, then we have to consider her having a colonoscopy. Not only is it costly, but it sounds like a horrible stressful experience for a dog (think enema -- lots of them).

If it ends up being cancer, they said she would have maybe 6 months. Please pray it's not cancer. I don't know if I can handle losing another dog to cancer.

Happy Birthday Glenn!

Happy Birthday to my brother in law Glenn. The last of the December birthdays. Sounds like he had a good day when we called him. All the best to you!

The budget

Today Elijah and I hit the store to use up his gift cards. I told him how much he had to spend. It was fun to see him look around and select items based on how much he had to spend. A few times he said 'that's too expensive.' He ended up going slightly over budget, but I think overall it was a good lesson for him.

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas to you. This year was a little different than other years, but all in all it still held to what the season is supposed to be about. We were able to see almost all of our family members. We made the rounds over the last two days. Still a few phone calls to make.

Remember he is the reason for the season.

Happy Birthday Sarah!

Happy Birthday to my niece Sarah. We did a little celebration this past weekend. I hope you had a great day! Love you!

Happy Birthday Elijah!

Happy birthday to my baby! I can't believe he is seven already! We had a great day at the movie theatre. Small party but a good time.

Another Birthday!

Happy Birthday to my friend Mary. She's in a nice sunny and warm place. I hope it was a great day in the sun for you!

Happy Birthday!

Happy Birthday to two of my cousins: Debbie and Lorie. I hope you both enjoyed your days and I wish you all the best. Hope to see you on Christmas Eve.

Another Year

It's been seven years since Gary left us. Although it does not hurt as often, the pain is still there. When I feel it, it's as bad as the first day without him. I still miss him.

Congratulations Taryn & Adam!

I went to a wedding today. One of my co-works got married today. She wanted a winter wonderland today and she got it. Congratulations! All the best to you both!

Happy Birthday Mom!

Happy Birthday to my mom. It's been a little tough lately, but it's going to get better! I love you!

Happy Birthday Aaron & David!

Happy birthdday to my nephews Aaron & David. It was good to see you on Thursday. I hope your day is great! See you soon! Love you!

Happy Birthday Dad!

Happy Birthday to my Dad. Big day today -- another milestone. I wish you another year of happiness. Hopefully you'll retire soon! Love you!

Happy Thanksgiving

Happy Thanksgiving. I'm thankful for not being in the hospital. The meds are helping a lot. Yesterday was a pretty good day in that I did not have that horrible pain I had the two days before. Although today, I feel that it is wanting to come back. Maybe it is because I can actually eat something again. I hope I continue to make progress, although I still have spots popping out. Guess I'll be missing Black Friday.

It's official

I have the chicken pox. It started out as a little annoying and not too bad, but then turned into something awful. They were in my mouth and apparently traveled from there. After a night of excruciating pain that near put me on the edge, I went to the doctor. Some of the staff were not very pleasant and yes, I was treated like a leper. I can't say I blame them -- I would not wish this on anyone, however keep in mind that I would want to give this to anyone and I would not step foot outside my door if I didn't feel it was necessary. My doctor is out of town, so I met with another doctor. You know it's bad when a doctor that doesn't know you, shakes his head and genuinely looks like he feels so bad for you. Bad news -- I haven't peaked yet (What!?!). How can it get worse? Will I be spending my Thanksgiving in a hospital?

And so it begins

It appears that I am coming down with the chicken pox. Just a few for now, but they are coming. Have to wait and see what tomorrow holds.

Not Again

A couple of weeks ago, my mother was laid off. Yesterday, my stepfather was laid off. Times are definiately tough. I just hope it is temporary. If you could please say a prayer for them, I would appreciate it.

Chicken Pox!?!

Elijah has chicken pox. Yes, he had the vaccine years ago. I have no idea where he got them from. Fortunately it has been a mild case -- about 10-15 pox, no fever and good spirits. However, he has had to miss school since he's contagious. I hate him missing school, but what can you do? HOMEWORK!

Oh, did I mention that I never had the chicken pox. Cross your fingers that I don't get them!

In Loving Memory

Sadly, Gary's Aunt Janet passed on Monday. For a long time she has battled MS. She was a great lady and will be missed dearly, but suffers no more.