I could use some good news - and I finally got some!
After all of the wearisome testing I have endured during the past few weeks, I do have some results. I DO NOT have lupus, lyme disease, or MS!!!!!!!!!!!!
Bloodwork is good, Blood sugars may have to have some review, though. I was a gestational diabetic when I was pregnant with each one of the kids. I was worse with Jordan than with any of the rest - my blood sugar peaked at 467 (norm at that time was 80-120). Diabetes runs in my family, but it never returned after any of the pregnancies. Let's hope it has not returned now.
But, I do have some aggravating neuropathy in my feet and legs. I have to use a cane when I'm out of my house, for my feet are not able to sense changes in pavement, slopes, etc, At home, I use the wall to steady myself and I know where the furniture is if I need to fall.
I am undergoing both occupational and physical therapy during the week. It does leave me a bit weary afterwards, but so far I'm doing okay.
Monday of this week found Kerry and I driving to Greenwich to enjoy dinner with friends, Pat and Danni. We thoroughly enjoy ourselves when we go there. Pat works at a little pizza place that makes the best food! It's good to be with our friends.
Before that, Erik came up and spent the afternoon with me, leaving not too long after Kerry got home. He needed a couple of things to take with him on his trip to Washington, DC this coming week. It was good having him here, for he did a couple of things for me that scare me when I think of Kerry doing them. He cut some branches that were scraping the garage and brought a couple of big bags down from the attic.
Thursday was a fun evening. Melissa's parents are visiting from Arizona, so after they spent the day at the Football Hall of Fame in Canton, we joined them for dinner at a local Amish restaurant. We have always enjoyed her parents, and they treated us like royalty at their home in Arizona. It's funny - I've never been taller than anyone. But, I'm taller than Melissa and she's taller than her mom. Her dad is retired military, and Jordan said he was scared to death of him when he first met him. He just had that "look". But, Melissa said it was her little 4'11" mom that ruled the roost.
I understand.
I had a wonderful day at the temple on Friday. Julie Hoffman and Natalie Williams joined me, and it was a full day for all. My little temple workers are so good to work with. I just cherish them.
Saturday was filled with errands, like going to the local farmer's market in Bellville. I just love going there, and always return with tasty goodies! There's nothing like the bounty of summer to make one salivate.
Erik did check in today. He and his friend made it to Washington, DC last evening, and have already made the rounds in the District, seeing some of the grand buildings that are at the seat of our government. Kerry and I always loved going through the District - even going at night and casting big shadows up on the Washington Monument. I don't think you can do that now - but 32 years ago we could. Erik is planning on showing Oscar the Washington Temple, where Kerry and I were married.
Now begins a fun week for Kerry and me. He has the whole week off. I love these times. We have not planned on going anywhere, for we went through many years of only being able to go on vacation when the kids were out of school. Now, that's not part of our schedule, so we may go somewhere in the fall, just like we tried to do in the spring. But then again, we may not. (Note to the Pohl's - they changed around a bunch of the routes in Lexington, so as of a couple of days ago, Kerry is your mailman!)
I've included some goodies you might want to look at:
http://www.wired.com/geekdad/2009/07/100-things-your-kids-may-never-know-about/
This is from last year. I was not able to go to the award ceremony, due to being in the hospital:
http://www.mansfieldnewsjournal.com/article/20080528/LIFESTYLE/80528008/-1/NEWS17
And, for some strange reason, I've always been drawn to lighthouses. It's strange because I grew up in the middle of Ohio, where we don't have many lighthouses. This video took my breath away:
http://www.meridianmagazine.com/youtube/090715lighthouse.html
And, back in April, Kerry bought me this framed print, which hangs in our front hallway:
In the picture, there is a man standing at the base of the lighthouse with the waves crashing around him. The caption below the picture says: "Sometimes he calms the storm. Sometimes he lets the storm rage and calms his child."
A true statement.
Have a good week!
Miss P
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Cane and Able
I have truly become part of the older generation - and I am NOT ready for it.
I had a battery of testing done this week. As a matter of fact, it was a very rough week. Monday began with some pretty intensive physical therapy testing for balance. I have no balance. I am wobbly. They have wondered why I have not fallen more than I have. My feet and ankles are not able to detect when there is a difference in surface or incline, so they have strongly recommended that I always use a cane when I am not at home.
So, I have a cane.
When I'm at home, I'm familiar with where the furniture, walls, etc. are located so I can steady myself if I start to fall. But away from home, that's a different story.
Wednesday was a very rough day. It involved several hours of glucose tolerance testing. I hadn't had that done for 26 years when I was expecting Jordan. (I was a gestational diabetic with each pregnancy, and with him my blood sugar peaked at 467!) I was really glad I had Jean with me on Wednesday, for I could feel myself fading as my sugar rose and fell. Afterward, we raced to the cafeteria to get some protein in me. I came alive and went on to PT.
Thursday finished up my testing. I had an MRI that lasted 2 hours. Although it was an open MRI, it was still hard to endure - a neck brace, a cage over my face, and a sound like a jackhammer that would not end. They played a classical cd, but I couldn't hear it. I was perfectly still all that time, but I figuratively had to take myself to a different place to endure it.
Although it was a rough week, I am still very thankful for the time that I live in. They are able to see inside my body without actually having to go in there. Now we wait for the results.
Mr. Kerry was able to go with me to the temple on Friday. I love it when he can go with me. Julie Hoffman also joins me twice each month. That evening, we joined her and her husband at the local Masonic Temple for a Swiss steak dinner. Oh, it was so good.
After a later night on the computer Friday night, I rolled out of bed Saturday morning to go to breakfast with Mr. Kerry. Instead of the ice cream socials we love to go to in the summertime, we went to a breakfast social. Hundreds of motorcycles descend on Mansfield this week and next, and a local church offered a free mush breakfast - and it was SO good. We enjoyed eggs, sausage, pancakes, fried mush, juice and milk - and left a donation. We almost went this morning, too! Afterward, it was off to the farmer's market.
I cherish these times with Mr. Kerry - and I also enjoy life when he's not able to be with me. When we are together in the evenings, we share our activities of the day so we sort of experience them with each other.
Church was good this morning. It was good to see an old friend from the past - Tammy Bishop, nee Bonecutter. It has been years since she's been able to make a trip back here, and reunions have a way of doing that. It's also been fun connecting with friends and family on facebook or myface or facespace or whatever it's called. I get them all mixed up! What a fun way to catch up and to share pictures.
Thank you all for your prayers in my behalf. Many of you have written to tell me that you have included me in those prayers, and I appreciate that. They really do matter. And, they help.
Have a good week!
Love,
Miss P
I had a battery of testing done this week. As a matter of fact, it was a very rough week. Monday began with some pretty intensive physical therapy testing for balance. I have no balance. I am wobbly. They have wondered why I have not fallen more than I have. My feet and ankles are not able to detect when there is a difference in surface or incline, so they have strongly recommended that I always use a cane when I am not at home.
So, I have a cane.
When I'm at home, I'm familiar with where the furniture, walls, etc. are located so I can steady myself if I start to fall. But away from home, that's a different story.
Wednesday was a very rough day. It involved several hours of glucose tolerance testing. I hadn't had that done for 26 years when I was expecting Jordan. (I was a gestational diabetic with each pregnancy, and with him my blood sugar peaked at 467!) I was really glad I had Jean with me on Wednesday, for I could feel myself fading as my sugar rose and fell. Afterward, we raced to the cafeteria to get some protein in me. I came alive and went on to PT.
Thursday finished up my testing. I had an MRI that lasted 2 hours. Although it was an open MRI, it was still hard to endure - a neck brace, a cage over my face, and a sound like a jackhammer that would not end. They played a classical cd, but I couldn't hear it. I was perfectly still all that time, but I figuratively had to take myself to a different place to endure it.
Although it was a rough week, I am still very thankful for the time that I live in. They are able to see inside my body without actually having to go in there. Now we wait for the results.
Mr. Kerry was able to go with me to the temple on Friday. I love it when he can go with me. Julie Hoffman also joins me twice each month. That evening, we joined her and her husband at the local Masonic Temple for a Swiss steak dinner. Oh, it was so good.
After a later night on the computer Friday night, I rolled out of bed Saturday morning to go to breakfast with Mr. Kerry. Instead of the ice cream socials we love to go to in the summertime, we went to a breakfast social. Hundreds of motorcycles descend on Mansfield this week and next, and a local church offered a free mush breakfast - and it was SO good. We enjoyed eggs, sausage, pancakes, fried mush, juice and milk - and left a donation. We almost went this morning, too! Afterward, it was off to the farmer's market.
I cherish these times with Mr. Kerry - and I also enjoy life when he's not able to be with me. When we are together in the evenings, we share our activities of the day so we sort of experience them with each other.
Church was good this morning. It was good to see an old friend from the past - Tammy Bishop, nee Bonecutter. It has been years since she's been able to make a trip back here, and reunions have a way of doing that. It's also been fun connecting with friends and family on facebook or myface or facespace or whatever it's called. I get them all mixed up! What a fun way to catch up and to share pictures.
Thank you all for your prayers in my behalf. Many of you have written to tell me that you have included me in those prayers, and I appreciate that. They really do matter. And, they help.
Have a good week!
Love,
Miss P
Sunday, July 12, 2009
So glad to be alive!
I'm another year older this week! I am so touched by the amount of birthday cards and emails that came my way this week. In the past, the only cards I got were from my insurance agent and some guy we bought a van from 20 years ago. And Janet! She was one of my good friends when I lived in Akron over 30 years ago, and then later when she moved to the Washington area a few months after I did. Over the years, we've never forgotten each other's birthdays. As for friendship - we could probably pick right up where we left off.
I still can't help thinking about my mom. It seems like she was on my mind and on Kerry's through this week. Perhaps she wasn't really that far away. I think of her being pregnant during the hot summer of 1955. I know how I felt when I was pregnant through the summer with Jordan - my August baby. I thought I was going to die. I was swollen. It was nice being able to spend some time in a nice, air-conditioned hospital room. Thanks for all your comments about my mom's picture last week. I couldn't believe my sisters had never seen it!
This past week found us traveling to Washington Court House to celebrate little Jayden's 2nd birthday! My goodness - it's been two years since his birth surprised us all. Kerry and I had gone to a movie when Jordan called us on the way home. He and Melissa and JJ were staying with us at the time. Melissa was having some cramping, then soon after, her water broke. She was 27 weeks along. She was sent up to Akron General, where little Jayden made his appearance weighing 2 lb 12 oz. He was so tiny that Kerry could hold him in one of his hands.
He was almost a month old here with Melissa.
I was hold him and JJ at the same hospital I would be admitted into just a few weeks later. His baby brother, Justin, had just been born a few days earlier.
And look at him now! Two years old and healthy and happy as can be!!!
Life is good. Very, very good.
A couple of days later, I went to a neurologist. He was quite concerned over some symptoms I've been having, and ordered several tests to be performed over the next week. I already had one of them on Friday - an EMG. It hurt. It just plain hurt. It basically involved putting a series of needles into my muscles and testing electrical impulses. Some of them I never felt. Others, I did. Oh, I did.
But, I felt well enough to go to the farmer's market on Saturday. Rain was due to come at any moment, and I mostly beat it. Rain doesn't bother me. There was also a street mart going on, and I found some great buys. Later on, Kerry and I went to an ice cream social, followed by cleaning the chapel. We all take our turn cleaning the chapel. I consider it an honor. It is the Lord's house, and I think we treat it a little better when we're asked to help take care of it.
This week will be quite busy with physical therapy, a GTT (glucose tolerance test, which I despise!), and an MRI. I'm glad I have Jean to go with me to some of these appointments. I want to get through them and move on. I need to feel better.
It was just over a year ago when a good friend of mine, Cecelia Whittenberger (who just became a brand new grandma!!!) came to visit me in the hospital. I was a mess. My spirits were down. I smelled. I looked awful. She tenderly massaged my legs and back with the most wonderful lotion and brought me a Willow Tree figurine called "Courage".
Little did I know how that little figure would become so important to me in the months to come. Today, it sits in a prominent place in my home. I have had to have quite a bit of courage lately for a variety of reasons. It helps me remember that I have it. Thank you, Cecelia.
Have a happy week! Life is good. Very, very good.
Love,
Miss P
The "young men" - Jordan and Erik. Both are 25 for a couple of months.
I still can't help thinking about my mom. It seems like she was on my mind and on Kerry's through this week. Perhaps she wasn't really that far away. I think of her being pregnant during the hot summer of 1955. I know how I felt when I was pregnant through the summer with Jordan - my August baby. I thought I was going to die. I was swollen. It was nice being able to spend some time in a nice, air-conditioned hospital room. Thanks for all your comments about my mom's picture last week. I couldn't believe my sisters had never seen it!
This past week found us traveling to Washington Court House to celebrate little Jayden's 2nd birthday! My goodness - it's been two years since his birth surprised us all. Kerry and I had gone to a movie when Jordan called us on the way home. He and Melissa and JJ were staying with us at the time. Melissa was having some cramping, then soon after, her water broke. She was 27 weeks along. She was sent up to Akron General, where little Jayden made his appearance weighing 2 lb 12 oz. He was so tiny that Kerry could hold him in one of his hands.
He was almost a month old here with Melissa.
I was hold him and JJ at the same hospital I would be admitted into just a few weeks later. His baby brother, Justin, had just been born a few days earlier.
And look at him now! Two years old and healthy and happy as can be!!!
Life is good. Very, very good.
A couple of days later, I went to a neurologist. He was quite concerned over some symptoms I've been having, and ordered several tests to be performed over the next week. I already had one of them on Friday - an EMG. It hurt. It just plain hurt. It basically involved putting a series of needles into my muscles and testing electrical impulses. Some of them I never felt. Others, I did. Oh, I did.
But, I felt well enough to go to the farmer's market on Saturday. Rain was due to come at any moment, and I mostly beat it. Rain doesn't bother me. There was also a street mart going on, and I found some great buys. Later on, Kerry and I went to an ice cream social, followed by cleaning the chapel. We all take our turn cleaning the chapel. I consider it an honor. It is the Lord's house, and I think we treat it a little better when we're asked to help take care of it.
This week will be quite busy with physical therapy, a GTT (glucose tolerance test, which I despise!), and an MRI. I'm glad I have Jean to go with me to some of these appointments. I want to get through them and move on. I need to feel better.
It was just over a year ago when a good friend of mine, Cecelia Whittenberger (who just became a brand new grandma!!!) came to visit me in the hospital. I was a mess. My spirits were down. I smelled. I looked awful. She tenderly massaged my legs and back with the most wonderful lotion and brought me a Willow Tree figurine called "Courage".
Little did I know how that little figure would become so important to me in the months to come. Today, it sits in a prominent place in my home. I have had to have quite a bit of courage lately for a variety of reasons. It helps me remember that I have it. Thank you, Cecelia.
Have a happy week! Life is good. Very, very good.
Love,
Miss P
The "young men" - Jordan and Erik. Both are 25 for a couple of months.
Happy Birthday, America!
What a beautiful week!
It's been a bit cold here in the Ohio. Normally, we are beginning to swelter - but this year's a bit different. We have slept under a down comforter each night. We have a window air conditioner, but rarely have to use it. It's usually cool out here in the country.
But lately, it's been downright cold. I'm telling you, it's been cold.
I meandered my way up to Fern's on Tuesday. Jean and her family rent a cottage up there for a couple of weeks each year, so Betty drove from Akron, I drove from Mansfield, and we enjoyed a "sisterhood" day. We enjoyed lunch, then did some much-needed shopping. I don't remember the last time we were all together. We truly enjoy each other - with an occasional spat - but not very often.
I cam home with a ton of fruit that Kerry jumped into. There's nothing like summertime fruit.
Kerry had Wednesday off, and we just got all kinds of stuff done. He started the morning being fitted for a crown. I told him not to start acting like king. Afterward, we drove deep into the heart of Amish country to a produce auction. It was truly in the middle of nowhere. The drive there took my breath away. Once there, we were surrounded by Amish people that had brought in lots of produce and flowers for auction. On this trip, we didn't buy anything - but next time I think we probably will. The prices were phenomenal. One man was telling me that a couple of months ago, he bought a pallet of tomato plants that were quite mature - up above his knees. He paid about $1.25 per plant. Hanging flower baskets were going for $2.50. Here's their website: http://knox.osu.edu/horticulture/owl-creek-produce-auction/owl-creek-produce-auction
We ran a few more errands, then came home to do some work before going to our Spanish class.
While Eddie was at the spa on Thursday, I was at my doctor's office. They are arranging for some more tests for me, so I guess some of my days will be spent with that.
Friday was extremely busy at the temple. In our area, attendance at the temple is up 20% over last year - 49% church wide. People are coming for peace and for strength. That evening, Kerry and I had our own private fireworks show - they were being launched at Snow Trails - the ski resort behind our house. They were BEAUTIFUL! I don't know why they didn't do that the past 25 years we've lived here - WHEN WE HAD KIDS AT HOME!!!
Saturday was one of the best 4th of July holidays we have ever had. It began by going to a church in Ontario - a town not too far from here. They had a wonderful breakfast - egg and cheese strata, bacon, eggs, pancakes, biscuits and sausage gravy, toast, breakfast goodies, juices - all for a donation. They did a fine job.
On the way home, we stopped at the Farmer's Market in Bellville. We love going to that each Saturday. The young girl that started it was selling her wonderful cookies and brownies. We talked to her for quite awhile. She started researching on how to get one started when she was nine years old. It has now been going for seven years. We love supporting the locals with their baked goods, herbs, produce, etc.
As we were leaving, we saw where they were having a parade in about an hour, followed by an ice cream social. Okay. We ran home, dropped off Eddie, grabbed our chairs, went back and found our spot. It was great! We LOVE small town America. The parade was just long enough - just about half an hour. There were the typical entries - including veterans, fire trucks and alpacas. Yes, alpacas. The patriotism was contagious. I've included pictures at the end.
The ice cream social was delicious! Just enough time had passed for us to be hungry again. In this little town, people don't shake hands when they greet - they embrace and they kiss. Everyone knows everyone. We were thankful to be there.
Maybe it meant a lot to me this year because 54 years ago, someone took a picture of my mother standing sideways on the Bellville bridge on July 4 - just four days before I was born.
Just like we're thankful to be part of this great land. We came back to our own little piece of America and had a bonfire in the evening. And, as we were going to sleep, the neighbors across the road had a wonderful fireworks show that we watched from our bedroom window.
It doesn't get much better than that!
Here's some photos:
Singing the Star-Spangled Banner at the Bandstand.
Pentunias and the flag - in front of a furniture that's closing.
Children after the parade
A couple that won a trophy for something...
This couple was in front of us as we waited to go into the firehouse for the ice cream social.
HEIGHT: 572px" height=572 width=480 vspace=5 comp_state="speed" DATASIZE="68961" ID="7" SRC="aoladp://MA27035496-0007/Untitled.jpg">
My Kerry
Kerry insisted on taking a picture of me.
And...a good read:
This is a keeper, so we don't forget. Have you ever wondered what happened to the 56 men
who signed the Declaration of Independence ?Five signers were captured by the British as traitors,
and tortured before they died.Twelve had their homes ransacked and burned.
Two lost their sons serving in the Revolutionary Army;
another had two sons captured.Nine of the 56 fought and died from wounds or
hardships of the Revolutionary War.They signed and they pledged their lives, their fortunes,
and their sacred honor.What kind of men were they?Twenty-four were lawyers and jurists.
Eleven were merchants,
nine were farmers and large plantation owners;
men of means, well educated,
but they signed the Declaration of Independence
knowing full well that the penalty would be death if
they were captured.
Carter Braxton of Virginia, a wealthy planter and
trader, saw his ships swept from the seas by the
British Navy. He sold his home and properties to
pay his debts, and died in rags.Thomas McKeam was so hounded by the British
that he was forced to move his family almost constantly.
He served in the Congress without pay, and his family
was kept in hiding. His possessions were taken from him,
and poverty was his reward.Vandals or soldiers looted the properties of Dillery, Hall, Clymer,
Walton, Gwinnett, Heyward, Ruttledge, and Middleton.At the battle of Yorktown , Thomas Nelson, Jr., noted that
the British General Cornwallis had taken over the Nelson
home for his headquarters. He quietly urged General
George Washington to open fire. The home was destroyed,
and Nelson died bankrupt.Francis Lewis had his home and properties destroyed.
The enemy jailed his wife, and she died within a few months.John Hart was driven from his wife's bedside as she was dying.
Their 13 children fled for their lives. His fields and his gristmill
were laid to waste. For more than a year he lived in forests
and caves, returning home to find his wife dead and his
children vanished.
So, take a few minutes while enjoying your 4th of July holiday and
silently thank these patriots. It's not much to ask for the price they paid.Remember: freedom is never free!
It's been a bit cold here in the Ohio. Normally, we are beginning to swelter - but this year's a bit different. We have slept under a down comforter each night. We have a window air conditioner, but rarely have to use it. It's usually cool out here in the country.
But lately, it's been downright cold. I'm telling you, it's been cold.
I meandered my way up to Fern's on Tuesday. Jean and her family rent a cottage up there for a couple of weeks each year, so Betty drove from Akron, I drove from Mansfield, and we enjoyed a "sisterhood" day. We enjoyed lunch, then did some much-needed shopping. I don't remember the last time we were all together. We truly enjoy each other - with an occasional spat - but not very often.
I cam home with a ton of fruit that Kerry jumped into. There's nothing like summertime fruit.
Kerry had Wednesday off, and we just got all kinds of stuff done. He started the morning being fitted for a crown. I told him not to start acting like king. Afterward, we drove deep into the heart of Amish country to a produce auction. It was truly in the middle of nowhere. The drive there took my breath away. Once there, we were surrounded by Amish people that had brought in lots of produce and flowers for auction. On this trip, we didn't buy anything - but next time I think we probably will. The prices were phenomenal. One man was telling me that a couple of months ago, he bought a pallet of tomato plants that were quite mature - up above his knees. He paid about $1.25 per plant. Hanging flower baskets were going for $2.50. Here's their website: http://knox.osu.edu/horticulture/owl-creek-produce-auction/owl-creek-produce-auction
We ran a few more errands, then came home to do some work before going to our Spanish class.
While Eddie was at the spa on Thursday, I was at my doctor's office. They are arranging for some more tests for me, so I guess some of my days will be spent with that.
Friday was extremely busy at the temple. In our area, attendance at the temple is up 20% over last year - 49% church wide. People are coming for peace and for strength. That evening, Kerry and I had our own private fireworks show - they were being launched at Snow Trails - the ski resort behind our house. They were BEAUTIFUL! I don't know why they didn't do that the past 25 years we've lived here - WHEN WE HAD KIDS AT HOME!!!
Saturday was one of the best 4th of July holidays we have ever had. It began by going to a church in Ontario - a town not too far from here. They had a wonderful breakfast - egg and cheese strata, bacon, eggs, pancakes, biscuits and sausage gravy, toast, breakfast goodies, juices - all for a donation. They did a fine job.
On the way home, we stopped at the Farmer's Market in Bellville. We love going to that each Saturday. The young girl that started it was selling her wonderful cookies and brownies. We talked to her for quite awhile. She started researching on how to get one started when she was nine years old. It has now been going for seven years. We love supporting the locals with their baked goods, herbs, produce, etc.
As we were leaving, we saw where they were having a parade in about an hour, followed by an ice cream social. Okay. We ran home, dropped off Eddie, grabbed our chairs, went back and found our spot. It was great! We LOVE small town America. The parade was just long enough - just about half an hour. There were the typical entries - including veterans, fire trucks and alpacas. Yes, alpacas. The patriotism was contagious. I've included pictures at the end.
The ice cream social was delicious! Just enough time had passed for us to be hungry again. In this little town, people don't shake hands when they greet - they embrace and they kiss. Everyone knows everyone. We were thankful to be there.
Maybe it meant a lot to me this year because 54 years ago, someone took a picture of my mother standing sideways on the Bellville bridge on July 4 - just four days before I was born.
Just like we're thankful to be part of this great land. We came back to our own little piece of America and had a bonfire in the evening. And, as we were going to sleep, the neighbors across the road had a wonderful fireworks show that we watched from our bedroom window.
It doesn't get much better than that!
Here's some photos:
Singing the Star-Spangled Banner at the Bandstand.
Pentunias and the flag - in front of a furniture that's closing.
Children after the parade
A couple that won a trophy for something...
This couple was in front of us as we waited to go into the firehouse for the ice cream social.
HEIGHT: 572px" height=572 width=480 vspace=5 comp_state="speed" DATASIZE="68961" ID="7" SRC="aoladp://MA27035496-0007/Untitled.jpg">
My Kerry
Kerry insisted on taking a picture of me.
And...a good read:
This is a keeper, so we don't forget. Have you ever wondered what happened to the 56 men
who signed the Declaration of Independence ?Five signers were captured by the British as traitors,
and tortured before they died.Twelve had their homes ransacked and burned.
Two lost their sons serving in the Revolutionary Army;
another had two sons captured.Nine of the 56 fought and died from wounds or
hardships of the Revolutionary War.They signed and they pledged their lives, their fortunes,
and their sacred honor.What kind of men were they?Twenty-four were lawyers and jurists.
Eleven were merchants,
nine were farmers and large plantation owners;
men of means, well educated,
but they signed the Declaration of Independence
knowing full well that the penalty would be death if
they were captured.
Carter Braxton of Virginia, a wealthy planter and
trader, saw his ships swept from the seas by the
British Navy. He sold his home and properties to
pay his debts, and died in rags.Thomas McKeam was so hounded by the British
that he was forced to move his family almost constantly.
He served in the Congress without pay, and his family
was kept in hiding. His possessions were taken from him,
and poverty was his reward.Vandals or soldiers looted the properties of Dillery, Hall, Clymer,
Walton, Gwinnett, Heyward, Ruttledge, and Middleton.At the battle of Yorktown , Thomas Nelson, Jr., noted that
the British General Cornwallis had taken over the Nelson
home for his headquarters. He quietly urged General
George Washington to open fire. The home was destroyed,
and Nelson died bankrupt.Francis Lewis had his home and properties destroyed.
The enemy jailed his wife, and she died within a few months.John Hart was driven from his wife's bedside as she was dying.
Their 13 children fled for their lives. His fields and his gristmill
were laid to waste. For more than a year he lived in forests
and caves, returning home to find his wife dead and his
children vanished.
So, take a few minutes while enjoying your 4th of July holiday and
silently thank these patriots. It's not much to ask for the price they paid.Remember: freedom is never free!
Monday, June 29, 2009
Lauritzen Line of Authority
ORSON W. LAURITZEN was ordained a High Priest on 1 Sep 1946 by Harold B. Lee
HAROLD B. LEE was ordained an Apostle on 10 Apr 1941 by Heber J. Grant.
HEBER J. GRANT was ordained an Apostle on 16 Apr 1882 by George Q. Cannon
GEORGE Q. CANNON was ordained an Apostle on 26 Aug 1860 by Brigham Young
BRIGHAM YOUNG was ordained an Apostle on 14 Feb 1835 under the hands of the Three Witnesses, Oliver Cowdery, David Whitmer and Martin Harris
The THREE WITNESSES were called by revelation to choose the Twelve Apostles and on 14 Feb 1835 were "blessed by the laying on of hands of the Presidency", Joseph Smith, Jr., Sidney Rigdon and Frederick G. Williams to ordain the Twelve Apostles. (History of the Church, Vol. 2, pp. 187-188)
JOSEPH SMITH, Jr. and OLIVERCOWDERY received the Melchizedek Priesthood in 1829 under the hands of Peter, James and John.
PETER, JAMES AND JOHN were ordained Apostles by the Lord Jesus Christ. (John 15:16)
HAROLD B. LEE was ordained an Apostle on 10 Apr 1941 by Heber J. Grant.
HEBER J. GRANT was ordained an Apostle on 16 Apr 1882 by George Q. Cannon
GEORGE Q. CANNON was ordained an Apostle on 26 Aug 1860 by Brigham Young
BRIGHAM YOUNG was ordained an Apostle on 14 Feb 1835 under the hands of the Three Witnesses, Oliver Cowdery, David Whitmer and Martin Harris
The THREE WITNESSES were called by revelation to choose the Twelve Apostles and on 14 Feb 1835 were "blessed by the laying on of hands of the Presidency", Joseph Smith, Jr., Sidney Rigdon and Frederick G. Williams to ordain the Twelve Apostles. (History of the Church, Vol. 2, pp. 187-188)
JOSEPH SMITH, Jr. and OLIVERCOWDERY received the Melchizedek Priesthood in 1829 under the hands of Peter, James and John.
PETER, JAMES AND JOHN were ordained Apostles by the Lord Jesus Christ. (John 15:16)
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Flip Flop
I am just getting to be more of a klutz.
I taught genealogy classes all week at the OGS (Ohio Genealogical Society) Summer Camp that they offer each year. I've done it every year since they started - except for last year. It's always so good to reconnect with my genealogy friends from near and far. Curt Witcher, who is the director of the Fort Wayne, IN Genealogy Department in their library and is quite renown, was here for the first two days and did a special program at the public library Monday evening. Kerry and I attended it, and I introduced him to Kerry. We laughed, because when Kerry goes with me to research in these libraries, he never has a problem with however long I want to stay. His standard saying is, "How can anyone be bored in a library?!"
But, as I was coming home on Wednesday, my foot got hung on the threshhold and I splattered into the front hall, falling on my elbows and knees! I've been having some trouble with my feet and legs, for sometimes I just can't feel them. That's what happened when I fell - I never knew my foot was stuck. Fortunately, the only thing hurt was my pride - I'm sure the cars going by got a good view.
I must say that I'm really impressed with something - and it's usually pretty hard to impress me. Last Saturday, I attended the wedding shower of Jean's grandson's fiance (figure that one out!). Almost before I could turn around, a thank-you card had arrived for my gift! I was floored - first of all, that it came so quickly and secondly, that I even got one at all. Betty's daughter-in-law, Erin, is the only other person I have given a gift to where the thank-you card almost beat me home. Jolene's thank-you was so sweet and heartfelt, and I was so touched, for I don't know her very well. And, she's young! It was nice to be acknowledged, for sometimes one has to wonder if the gift was ever received. Thank-you's go a long way with me - that's one way to assure they'll get another gift from me in the future. If there isn't at least an acknowledgement, don't hold your breath.
Sorry. I'm old fashioned.
It was really hot this week, too! On Tuesday evening, I heard a clothes rack fall out in my attic. Just as I was going out there to fix it, the phone rang. I multi-tasked and never thought more about it.
That evening, while Kerry was at the temple, I called Eddie to walk him and he wouldn't come. I figured he was just being stubborn. But, he also wasn't at the foot of our bed the next morning. We looked under all the beds, then Kerry asked if he could have gotten out. I didn't see any way that he could.
Then, while getting ready to give up and go to my classes, I called one more time and I heard his collar and tags shake. He had been in the attic from 6:00 pm to 8:00 am!!! Good grief! I opened the door and he shot out of there like a bullet. Poor little feller...I figured his eyes were yellow from holding it in all night, so we raced outside. He would have cooked if he had remained in there all day.
Kerry and I also took a Spanish class Wednesday night from April Graves. She served her mission in Bolivia. Kerry taught me a few basic phrases when we went to Mexico and Guatemala, but we figured we both need to be a little better.
Friday was a good day at the temple. Julie Hoffman goes with me twice a month as a worker, and it's nice to have someone to ride with. We were busy, and the next day found me having some more problems with my legs. They were kind of sore.
Saturday had me reflecting, as moms are prone to do on each of their children's birthdays. Erik turned 25 yesterday - so of course, I remembered the feelings I had 25 years ago when I had a new baby boy. Moms always have a tender heart when looking back on those days. Erik was a bit of a surprise, for pregnancy didn't come easy to me. Every other one had been a miscarriage. But Erik stuck it out. He was supposed to come to our family. That made our little family young and tight - four kids under five! Oh, my - how did we do it? Why did we do it?
Because we wouldn't be the people we are today if we hadn't had a family.
He and Jordan are the same age for a couple of months - they're just 10 months apart. He was the last to be born - I couldn't have any more. It was nice knowing who the baby of the family would be. But, I also wanted to make sure Jordan had his time to be a baby, too. I didn't want him pushed off the lap too soon.
The nice thing is that my mom got to see all of her grandchildren. She died in September, when Erik was just three months old.
Church was good today. April Graves and Joseph Clark spoke on preparing for marriage - which is exactly what they are doing in preparation for their wedding August 14. I was SO impressed with each of their talks. I know their parents were proud of them.
Now we go into a new week, and a new month. Life is good, life is beautiful, and I love and appreciate each day.
This month, we wish a happy birthday to:
Baby Jayden - our grandson - Jul 3 - 2 years old!!!
Jim - Fern's husband - Jul 5
Me - Jul 8
Elyse - Betty's granddaughter - Jul 9
And a happy anniversary to:
Jordan & Melissa - Jul 1
Fern & Jim - Jul 22
Chris & Kristi - Kerry's brother and his wife - Jul 26
(Please remember that the family has gotten so big that I am not including cousins or grandchildren, for the most part. I don't always get notification when new ones arrive, and rather than leave them out, I'm mostly including those that are close at hand and immediate siblings.)
Love to ya'll
Miss P
I taught genealogy classes all week at the OGS (Ohio Genealogical Society) Summer Camp that they offer each year. I've done it every year since they started - except for last year. It's always so good to reconnect with my genealogy friends from near and far. Curt Witcher, who is the director of the Fort Wayne, IN Genealogy Department in their library and is quite renown, was here for the first two days and did a special program at the public library Monday evening. Kerry and I attended it, and I introduced him to Kerry. We laughed, because when Kerry goes with me to research in these libraries, he never has a problem with however long I want to stay. His standard saying is, "How can anyone be bored in a library?!"
But, as I was coming home on Wednesday, my foot got hung on the threshhold and I splattered into the front hall, falling on my elbows and knees! I've been having some trouble with my feet and legs, for sometimes I just can't feel them. That's what happened when I fell - I never knew my foot was stuck. Fortunately, the only thing hurt was my pride - I'm sure the cars going by got a good view.
I must say that I'm really impressed with something - and it's usually pretty hard to impress me. Last Saturday, I attended the wedding shower of Jean's grandson's fiance (figure that one out!). Almost before I could turn around, a thank-you card had arrived for my gift! I was floored - first of all, that it came so quickly and secondly, that I even got one at all. Betty's daughter-in-law, Erin, is the only other person I have given a gift to where the thank-you card almost beat me home. Jolene's thank-you was so sweet and heartfelt, and I was so touched, for I don't know her very well. And, she's young! It was nice to be acknowledged, for sometimes one has to wonder if the gift was ever received. Thank-you's go a long way with me - that's one way to assure they'll get another gift from me in the future. If there isn't at least an acknowledgement, don't hold your breath.
Sorry. I'm old fashioned.
It was really hot this week, too! On Tuesday evening, I heard a clothes rack fall out in my attic. Just as I was going out there to fix it, the phone rang. I multi-tasked and never thought more about it.
That evening, while Kerry was at the temple, I called Eddie to walk him and he wouldn't come. I figured he was just being stubborn. But, he also wasn't at the foot of our bed the next morning. We looked under all the beds, then Kerry asked if he could have gotten out. I didn't see any way that he could.
Then, while getting ready to give up and go to my classes, I called one more time and I heard his collar and tags shake. He had been in the attic from 6:00 pm to 8:00 am!!! Good grief! I opened the door and he shot out of there like a bullet. Poor little feller...I figured his eyes were yellow from holding it in all night, so we raced outside. He would have cooked if he had remained in there all day.
Kerry and I also took a Spanish class Wednesday night from April Graves. She served her mission in Bolivia. Kerry taught me a few basic phrases when we went to Mexico and Guatemala, but we figured we both need to be a little better.
Friday was a good day at the temple. Julie Hoffman goes with me twice a month as a worker, and it's nice to have someone to ride with. We were busy, and the next day found me having some more problems with my legs. They were kind of sore.
Saturday had me reflecting, as moms are prone to do on each of their children's birthdays. Erik turned 25 yesterday - so of course, I remembered the feelings I had 25 years ago when I had a new baby boy. Moms always have a tender heart when looking back on those days. Erik was a bit of a surprise, for pregnancy didn't come easy to me. Every other one had been a miscarriage. But Erik stuck it out. He was supposed to come to our family. That made our little family young and tight - four kids under five! Oh, my - how did we do it? Why did we do it?
Because we wouldn't be the people we are today if we hadn't had a family.
He and Jordan are the same age for a couple of months - they're just 10 months apart. He was the last to be born - I couldn't have any more. It was nice knowing who the baby of the family would be. But, I also wanted to make sure Jordan had his time to be a baby, too. I didn't want him pushed off the lap too soon.
The nice thing is that my mom got to see all of her grandchildren. She died in September, when Erik was just three months old.
Church was good today. April Graves and Joseph Clark spoke on preparing for marriage - which is exactly what they are doing in preparation for their wedding August 14. I was SO impressed with each of their talks. I know their parents were proud of them.
Now we go into a new week, and a new month. Life is good, life is beautiful, and I love and appreciate each day.
This month, we wish a happy birthday to:
Baby Jayden - our grandson - Jul 3 - 2 years old!!!
Jim - Fern's husband - Jul 5
Me - Jul 8
Elyse - Betty's granddaughter - Jul 9
And a happy anniversary to:
Jordan & Melissa - Jul 1
Fern & Jim - Jul 22
Chris & Kristi - Kerry's brother and his wife - Jul 26
(Please remember that the family has gotten so big that I am not including cousins or grandchildren, for the most part. I don't always get notification when new ones arrive, and rather than leave them out, I'm mostly including those that are close at hand and immediate siblings.)
Love to ya'll
Miss P
Friday, June 26, 2009
Who's Your Daddy?
Boy, am I glad to be over that rotten sore throat that plagued me this week. It just hung on and on until finally I had to break down and call the doctor for an antibiotic. Aggravating. Just plain aggravating. It really took the sap out of me this week.
But, I'm back on track now. We've had quite a soggy week, but the last couple of days have been picture-perfect! We have big, white, fluffy clouds floating in the bluest of skies, a good breeze, plenty of sunshine - I'm telling you, it just doesn't get much better than this.
Saturday was quite the busy day. I went to Diana Detillion's baby shower. This is Alice Graves' oldest daughter - she's expecting her second boy next month. We all can remember when she was born. I am so happy for her - and for Alice!
I left a bit early and drove to Joan's house (married to my nephew, Dave). She was hosting a wedding shower for her daughter-in-law to be. Her youngest son, Cory, will be married in August. I am so happy for them!
But today, I am thinking about fathers.
I've been surrounded by good fathers all of my life. My own father was a good man, and a brilliant man. He went no further than 6th grade - but I'm telling you, this man could do anything. I remember watching his hands a lot. The could fix, build, assemble, design, and accomplish just about all one would ever need. If he'd had the opportunity for more education, he would have been an engineer. I was astounded as his mind and his talent. He would also have been a musician - my musical talent comes from his side of the family. His dream was being in front of an orchestra. He filled our humble home with the best of music. He made sure I had a piano at an early age - he sacrificed for it and for my piano lessons.
He worked in the coal mines, and I believed it scared him to death. He said he worked with black and white men, but you were all the same color when you came out. Once, we included him in our family trip to COSI in Columbus - a hands-on learning center. At that time, they had a replica of a coal mine. After we had lunch, I asked him to come on over and go through the opening. It had the yellow canary at the entrance, and it must have been exceptionally authentic-looking, for dad could only take a few steps inside. He could go no further. Later, when he lived with us, I was astounded at how claustrophobic he was. How in the world did he ever work in those mines?
It took him awhile to be baptized into the LDS church - my mom and three sisters did it first. After the missionaries got a little pushy, he moved the family to Ohio (from West Virginia), after checking out employment, educational opportunities for my sisters (I wasn't here yet), and making sure there was no Mormon church. When he was eventually baptized, he - just like my mom - never wavered. When they made up their mind to do something, they did it the whole way, or not at all.
I miss him. I had him a few years longer than I had my mom.
Dave Talaga told me he always craved chicken when he saw my dad.
I'm also thinking a lot about Kerry's dad. Though I didn't grown up knowing him, I know he was a good man. I am grateful for the nearly 30 years I knew him, and am especially grateful for the things he taught to Kerry - both through word and example. Kerry said at dinnertime, his dad always had the baby (whoever it was at the time) at his end of the table and fed them their dinner. He had a brilliant mind, and was a hard worker. I miss him, too.
I also think of the good bishops that have been part of my life - and the good counsel they have given to both Kerry and I as we needed some guidance. They have served as father figures.
Of course, I am grateful for Mr. Kerry - the father of each of my dear children. The qualities he possesses are ones that as a young girl I didn't have enough sense to look for. He has stood at my side canning apricots at midnight after babies were tucked in, he has held me while I wept, he has praised me when I really didn't deserve it, he helped clean up vomit, changed diapers, attended every concert, sporting event, every ceremony his children were involved in. His hands blessed me and each of the children whenever it was needed. I've never known anyone to forgive as quickly as he can - and does. I hope none of the kids ever forget how important it is to have a father in the life of a child - especially in today's world where fathers are kind of pushed aside and made to feel they are unnecessary.
Kerry has a kind and tender nature. Each one of my kids have inherited that same kind and tender nature. Their hearts are good.
I've always cherished this picture. Look at Kerry's mouth! My dad said the last time he saw a mouth that big it had a hook in it!!!
I cannot forget my Heavenly Father, the greatest father one can have. Without his love and mercy, I would wake up each day with no hope. And - I wake up each day with hope - every single day. Father has given me everything - health, family, home, all of the important things one can have in this life, I have.
I thank all of my fathers.
Love to y'all
Miss P
But, I'm back on track now. We've had quite a soggy week, but the last couple of days have been picture-perfect! We have big, white, fluffy clouds floating in the bluest of skies, a good breeze, plenty of sunshine - I'm telling you, it just doesn't get much better than this.
Saturday was quite the busy day. I went to Diana Detillion's baby shower. This is Alice Graves' oldest daughter - she's expecting her second boy next month. We all can remember when she was born. I am so happy for her - and for Alice!
I left a bit early and drove to Joan's house (married to my nephew, Dave). She was hosting a wedding shower for her daughter-in-law to be. Her youngest son, Cory, will be married in August. I am so happy for them!
But today, I am thinking about fathers.
I've been surrounded by good fathers all of my life. My own father was a good man, and a brilliant man. He went no further than 6th grade - but I'm telling you, this man could do anything. I remember watching his hands a lot. The could fix, build, assemble, design, and accomplish just about all one would ever need. If he'd had the opportunity for more education, he would have been an engineer. I was astounded as his mind and his talent. He would also have been a musician - my musical talent comes from his side of the family. His dream was being in front of an orchestra. He filled our humble home with the best of music. He made sure I had a piano at an early age - he sacrificed for it and for my piano lessons.
He worked in the coal mines, and I believed it scared him to death. He said he worked with black and white men, but you were all the same color when you came out. Once, we included him in our family trip to COSI in Columbus - a hands-on learning center. At that time, they had a replica of a coal mine. After we had lunch, I asked him to come on over and go through the opening. It had the yellow canary at the entrance, and it must have been exceptionally authentic-looking, for dad could only take a few steps inside. He could go no further. Later, when he lived with us, I was astounded at how claustrophobic he was. How in the world did he ever work in those mines?
It took him awhile to be baptized into the LDS church - my mom and three sisters did it first. After the missionaries got a little pushy, he moved the family to Ohio (from West Virginia), after checking out employment, educational opportunities for my sisters (I wasn't here yet), and making sure there was no Mormon church. When he was eventually baptized, he - just like my mom - never wavered. When they made up their mind to do something, they did it the whole way, or not at all.
I miss him. I had him a few years longer than I had my mom.
Dave Talaga told me he always craved chicken when he saw my dad.
I'm also thinking a lot about Kerry's dad. Though I didn't grown up knowing him, I know he was a good man. I am grateful for the nearly 30 years I knew him, and am especially grateful for the things he taught to Kerry - both through word and example. Kerry said at dinnertime, his dad always had the baby (whoever it was at the time) at his end of the table and fed them their dinner. He had a brilliant mind, and was a hard worker. I miss him, too.
I also think of the good bishops that have been part of my life - and the good counsel they have given to both Kerry and I as we needed some guidance. They have served as father figures.
Of course, I am grateful for Mr. Kerry - the father of each of my dear children. The qualities he possesses are ones that as a young girl I didn't have enough sense to look for. He has stood at my side canning apricots at midnight after babies were tucked in, he has held me while I wept, he has praised me when I really didn't deserve it, he helped clean up vomit, changed diapers, attended every concert, sporting event, every ceremony his children were involved in. His hands blessed me and each of the children whenever it was needed. I've never known anyone to forgive as quickly as he can - and does. I hope none of the kids ever forget how important it is to have a father in the life of a child - especially in today's world where fathers are kind of pushed aside and made to feel they are unnecessary.
Kerry has a kind and tender nature. Each one of my kids have inherited that same kind and tender nature. Their hearts are good.
I've always cherished this picture. Look at Kerry's mouth! My dad said the last time he saw a mouth that big it had a hook in it!!!
I cannot forget my Heavenly Father, the greatest father one can have. Without his love and mercy, I would wake up each day with no hope. And - I wake up each day with hope - every single day. Father has given me everything - health, family, home, all of the important things one can have in this life, I have.
I thank all of my fathers.
Love to y'all
Miss P
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