Monday, Sept. 27, 2010
Our internet service is down and we have been unable to use our computers for the past 2 days. The cable guy is supposed to be repairing it now. We shall see. Be sure that as soon as it is up I will send a full blog with photos.
On the medical front; the lymph nodes were negative! Praises to our Lord! Only thing left is the results of the cardiac stress test and those should be in today. We have an apt at the clinic Weds and should be listed by then.
At this moment, we are sitting in a library in our community that was built in 1906. It is beautiful with ornate spiral stair cases (no elevators) and a full athletic club as part of the original library. They have athletic photos and trophies dating back to 1908 all over the gym. It is quite something. I will send photos (it even has fire places through out.) I am looking forward to spending a lot of the winter here. Everyone else can go to Starbucks!
Kim got off on Saturday morning, we miss her. She was such a joy and what a good sport. I will tell all later and show loads of photos.
Sorry, but I have to go now. We will be back on line, hopefully, soon. If you emailed me I will try to get to you as soon as possible.
God is Great!
steph & steve
Monday, September 27, 2010
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Busy Days
Tuesday, Sept. 21, 2010
Kim's Visit To Pittsburgh
Things are great here, we are spending our mornings at the clinic, afternoons we visit the sights, and late afternoon we nap then we either go out or I cook dinner. That's about it. It doesn't sound too exciting but then I am a bit challenged and Kim is a terrific sport about it all. She just goes along with anything and never says a negative word. It is such a pleasure having her here with us. Steve is really enjoying her, he plays his silly little games with her and she just laughs at him. We love her dearly. Not to mention that she is setting our computers up so that they are not angry at us so often. We are very grateful.
So far we went down to Carson Street and walked the street of many bars, restaurants and small shops. It is one of the night hot spots in town. (We went at lunch time.) We had lunch at a restaurant that used to be a gas station and is called the "Double Wide Bar & Grill." Steve & Kim had what looked like the best hamburgers they have had in a long time. I had a fabulous salad.
Today we went to Phipps Conservatory, which we enjoyed a great deal more this time. They are redoing some of the displays, but it is still something to see. We went through the whole thing this time and were able to take more photos. We were even able to go out to the outside gardens. The only disappointment was that the butterflies have all left to go to the south, so we only saw 3 or 4 still hanging out. But we could imagine what it was like a month ago or so.
Tomorrow I have clinic then have to go to the transplant clinic to meet with my doctor. We are hoping that they will have some news of the lymph nodes as well as tell us that we no longer need to continue the antibiotics. They are really starting to get to me, especially the vancomyacin. It is a very toxic med and I have only been able to tolerate one dose a day if that much. I really want this to end, it has been over 4 weeks now & enough is enough. But of course, that is up to the doc(boss).
Tomorrow we are going to be in clinic all day so sight seeing is out of our plans. Hopefully, Thursday we will make it to the Carnegie Museum of Natural Science, then the Just Ducky tour, and an evening at the IMPROV. That is the plan, whether time allows or not we will do our best. I just wish that I had more energy and less clinic and IV time.
I want to send our love and heart felt thanks to Lonn & Dianne Fisher for the beautiful card, photos of the family reunion and their incredible generosity. They have been undying support for us and we wish them well and good health from our Lord. Thank you Trevor for your beautiful birthday card, I appreciate it any time of the year. And a BIG HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Trevor as well (he will be 13 on the 26th.) Have a great time at your birthday party.
Well, that's all the news I have for the moment, besides Kim wants my computer to make some adjustments so I guess I better give it up while she is here.
Thank you Heavenly Father for the good days and wonderful friends and family you have truly blessed Steve & I with. Please bless all these wonderful folks for us.
Agape,
Steve & Steph
Kim's Visit To Pittsburgh
Things are great here, we are spending our mornings at the clinic, afternoons we visit the sights, and late afternoon we nap then we either go out or I cook dinner. That's about it. It doesn't sound too exciting but then I am a bit challenged and Kim is a terrific sport about it all. She just goes along with anything and never says a negative word. It is such a pleasure having her here with us. Steve is really enjoying her, he plays his silly little games with her and she just laughs at him. We love her dearly. Not to mention that she is setting our computers up so that they are not angry at us so often. We are very grateful.
So far we went down to Carson Street and walked the street of many bars, restaurants and small shops. It is one of the night hot spots in town. (We went at lunch time.) We had lunch at a restaurant that used to be a gas station and is called the "Double Wide Bar & Grill." Steve & Kim had what looked like the best hamburgers they have had in a long time. I had a fabulous salad.
Today we went to Phipps Conservatory, which we enjoyed a great deal more this time. They are redoing some of the displays, but it is still something to see. We went through the whole thing this time and were able to take more photos. We were even able to go out to the outside gardens. The only disappointment was that the butterflies have all left to go to the south, so we only saw 3 or 4 still hanging out. But we could imagine what it was like a month ago or so.
Tomorrow I have clinic then have to go to the transplant clinic to meet with my doctor. We are hoping that they will have some news of the lymph nodes as well as tell us that we no longer need to continue the antibiotics. They are really starting to get to me, especially the vancomyacin. It is a very toxic med and I have only been able to tolerate one dose a day if that much. I really want this to end, it has been over 4 weeks now & enough is enough. But of course, that is up to the doc(boss).
Tomorrow we are going to be in clinic all day so sight seeing is out of our plans. Hopefully, Thursday we will make it to the Carnegie Museum of Natural Science, then the Just Ducky tour, and an evening at the IMPROV. That is the plan, whether time allows or not we will do our best. I just wish that I had more energy and less clinic and IV time.
I want to send our love and heart felt thanks to Lonn & Dianne Fisher for the beautiful card, photos of the family reunion and their incredible generosity. They have been undying support for us and we wish them well and good health from our Lord. Thank you Trevor for your beautiful birthday card, I appreciate it any time of the year. And a BIG HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Trevor as well (he will be 13 on the 26th.) Have a great time at your birthday party.
Well, that's all the news I have for the moment, besides Kim wants my computer to make some adjustments so I guess I better give it up while she is here.
Thank you Heavenly Father for the good days and wonderful friends and family you have truly blessed Steve & I with. Please bless all these wonderful folks for us.
Agape,
Steve & Steph
Friday, September 17, 2010
In Great Need of Prayer
Friday, Sept. 17, 2010
This has to be a short post and mostly just a plea for prayer. It has been a challenging week.
Wednesday we had an appointment with the oncologist regarding to those lymph nodes that lite up on the PET scan. Mayo had already found them, CAT scanned them and felt that they were not worth a biopsy, so gave us clearance. But Dr. Kareem decided that they needed a further look-see so we went to see the most wonderful woman doctor who is an expert oncologist regarding breast cancer and lymph nodes. She felt the same as Mayo but she has been working with Dr. Kareem for quite a time and knows how funny and anal he is about such things. So she ordered a ultra-sound which lead to another mammogram by a fabulous radiologist. Well, to make an already long story shorter, the docs decided to do a biopsy. Of course, Dr. Kareem decided to go ahead and remove the nodes then biopsy them. Sooooo.....
Today they removed 5 nodes, that were larger and shaped funnier than they thought. We will know whether they are cancerous or benign by next Thursday. Other than that everything else tells the docs that they should not be cancerous. The surgery was a breeze and everyone including the doctors were so compassionate and caring that I was actually okay with it all. I give much praise for the empathy of everyone and for the smoothness of the whole procedure. I am sore but NOT laid up. (Got that "grapefruit- growing- under- my -armpit feeling" again).
I am asking for prayers for benign and harmless nodes and for a good week of lots of fun activities. I have much to be thankful for but if it is cancer then the transplant is off until it is cleared. So there is a lot at stake here. Please, there can not be too much prayer as we are always in prayer. God is so wonderful and awesome, yet His purpose is often impossible to grasp.
We are pretty much ready for Kim. I just hope she is patient with all of this medical garbage and doesn't mind being dragged to the hospital. We still have plenty of places to visit and a full agenda for her, so it should not be all doctor stuff.
I will keep everyone informed and you will know as soon as we find out.
Much love to all,
concerned in Pitts,
steve & steph
This has to be a short post and mostly just a plea for prayer. It has been a challenging week.
Wednesday we had an appointment with the oncologist regarding to those lymph nodes that lite up on the PET scan. Mayo had already found them, CAT scanned them and felt that they were not worth a biopsy, so gave us clearance. But Dr. Kareem decided that they needed a further look-see so we went to see the most wonderful woman doctor who is an expert oncologist regarding breast cancer and lymph nodes. She felt the same as Mayo but she has been working with Dr. Kareem for quite a time and knows how funny and anal he is about such things. So she ordered a ultra-sound which lead to another mammogram by a fabulous radiologist. Well, to make an already long story shorter, the docs decided to do a biopsy. Of course, Dr. Kareem decided to go ahead and remove the nodes then biopsy them. Sooooo.....
Today they removed 5 nodes, that were larger and shaped funnier than they thought. We will know whether they are cancerous or benign by next Thursday. Other than that everything else tells the docs that they should not be cancerous. The surgery was a breeze and everyone including the doctors were so compassionate and caring that I was actually okay with it all. I give much praise for the empathy of everyone and for the smoothness of the whole procedure. I am sore but NOT laid up. (Got that "grapefruit- growing- under- my -armpit feeling" again).
I am asking for prayers for benign and harmless nodes and for a good week of lots of fun activities. I have much to be thankful for but if it is cancer then the transplant is off until it is cleared. So there is a lot at stake here. Please, there can not be too much prayer as we are always in prayer. God is so wonderful and awesome, yet His purpose is often impossible to grasp.
We are pretty much ready for Kim. I just hope she is patient with all of this medical garbage and doesn't mind being dragged to the hospital. We still have plenty of places to visit and a full agenda for her, so it should not be all doctor stuff.
I will keep everyone informed and you will know as soon as we find out.
Much love to all,
concerned in Pitts,
steve & steph
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Photos Anyone!
Bodhi beginning to smile!
My one & only rib, boy was it GREAT!.JPG)
Ruby in the Atlantic Ocean!.JPG)
The only thing missing from this beautiful picture is our beautiful Heather. More coming of Pittsburgh!
Hurray!!! It's Movin' Day!!
Wednesday, Sept. 14, 2010
7:25am
IT IS MOVIN' DAY!
Well, you guessed it... we are so relieved to finally have a space of our own. It is comfortable and the kitchen is awesome. Lots of dishes, counter space and a nice breakfast bar. (We need to find some cheap stools). I like the dinning room table because it is a nice size but only has 4 chairs. The furniture is in good condition, with the exception of a fairly small TV. We are going to check into upgrading to a bit larger flat screen. Think we are a bit spoiled?
We are only a few hundred feet from the river walkway and the mall is within walking distance. How fun is that? I have never lived so close to any store in over 19 years. Now, I have everything from Target to Macys. There are several good restaurants and a hugemous movie theater as well, even if I can't eat at the restuarants or enjoy a box of popcorn.
What's new on the medical front? Not a whole lot... I am still feeling great, with more energy and strength every day. I feel the Lord is reminding that there will be times of not so good and then times of feeling wonderful. I am grateful and praise the Lord for the good times and know that there is a purpose for the not-so-good days. (That is really easy to say and believe when things are going well.)
Today we have an appointment with the oncologist regarding some lymph nodes under my left arm. Mayo also had an issue with them but after further tests they decided that they were harmless and the risk of a biopsy was not worth it. I sure hope this doc thinks the same way.
We have all the films and reports to back that up. I am so ready to be listed and it is taking along time. Then Friday I have to go to the cardiologist and run another stress test, only this one is a little more involved than the last one. I have already been to the cardiologist once in Pitts but I guess the PET scan showed some abnormality and Dr Kareem wanted to make sure it was not threatening to the transplant. It is all in God's hands. I may be able to be listed on Friday if the heart & lymph nodes are okay.
I want to thank Karen for the lovely card and especially the prayer her friend wrote just for me. It is beautiful and very appropriate. Virginia, Teresa and the rest of the prayer group held a prayer session in which my concerns were prayed about. What a great group of prayer warriors. Thank you, Gail for the card, I so wish I was there to join in the bible study and fellowship. You can not know how I miss you all and all the comfort I received. I do so enjoy Pastor Todd on audio, and look forward to his video sessions.
Thank you to the equine dentist who not only put poor Buster's very bad teeth and jaw in better shape (not great shape he still has a great deal of work to be done). The best part of that was that the doctor comped the whole bill because I was having to spend my birthday in the hospital. You can imagine our surprise! Not only is God good, but so are His children.
Special thanks to our Aunt Betty for not only seeing that Buster & Zoe are receiving such good care but mostly for being the incredible Aunt that she is. We love you and don't know how we could get along without you. (We are praying for healing for you as well) One more thing, Aunt Betty thank you so much for being so hospitable to Buddy when he visits. Mom loves him and loves the fact that you like him.
Lastly but not least, Thank you Claudia and Annie for the lovely letter and beautiful videos. Annie stop that barking and start enjoying the other dogs. Be a good girl for Claudia or it is the dull, dark, gloomy kennel for you! We love you and Jack and miss you much.
My next blog, Kim will probably be here and I hope to write all about our adventures.
Much love and prayers to all,
Getting used to Pitts,
Steph & Steve
Friday, September 10, 2010
Praise to the Lord
Friday, Sept 10, 2010
What a wonderful week Steve & I had this week. I felt so good all week. We only had one day that was a bit of a struggle at the Clinic (and that was no big deal!) The docs were thrilled with my healing and the fluid stayed off my tummy. We even went somewhere and walked every afternoon. I am so pleased for this time of relief. It renews my hope that things don't always stay tough forever.
Sunday
We got out of Clinic at 10:30am so we decided to go downtown and go on the tour of the WWII Transport Ship. The day was beautiful in the low 80s and sunny. The ship was located next to Heinz Field where there was Pittsburgh Pirates game going on. We managed to find a cheap ($10) parking spot 2 blocks from the ship so it was an easy walk over. Once we got there we were struck by the hugeness of the ship. It is supposed to be the largest ocean sailing vessel ever made. It was also very ugly. If you have ever been on a destroyer or air craft ship they are all shiny and smooth looking. This looked like the work horse that it was. You could see the side rivets, it was very dull and used looking. But very interesting.
Well, we found the beginning of the line and started walking to what we thought was the end... and we walked...and we walked...and finally about a half mile away we found the end. So we parked our selves in line thinking "Oh, this can't be that bad." But it was an hour and 15 mins later until we were in view of the ship with at least 2 hours left to wait. Steve waited in line and I walked up to the hill found a bench and sat to rest. I could see the people up on the top of the ship, nose to fanny. And they were creeping along as slow as the line. So I thought about this a bit more and as disappointed as I was, I decided to bail. Many of you may not know it, but being raised in the military, I am intrigued by military stuff. Especially WWII stuff. So you can imagine how disappointed I was but I am beginning to learn my limitations, besides there is no nice bench to sit down and rest your bum on up on the ship. So we walked on.
On the way to the car we came across the Pittsburgh Rib Fest. Oh boy, did we hit the jackpot.
Even though I could only eat one rib, it was the best thing I have tasted in months. It had been 20 years since I've had a rib and this one was spectacular. Steve ate more. There were rib bbq'ers from all over the United States and boy I could have eatin' one from every stand. They are actual professional chefs who travel around bbq'ing their ribs, briskets, and pulled pork. There was no beef or chicken only pork. Everyone displayed all of their ribbons, trophys and stories of how they became rib connoisseurs. It was delightful.
The rest of the week was a breeze and we were able to get out and see a bit more of Pittsburgh. One of the things we did was buy some games to keep us occupied. So presently we are attempting to master ROOK, it is not difficult but the bidding is a bit tricky. We need to find some one who really knows how to play so they can explain it to us, the directions are not very clear.
We are officially moving into our new condo on Wednesday the 15th. Our new address is:
629 Waterfront Dr., Apt 1106
Munhall, PA 15120
My good friend, Kim Rawlings, is coming in from Roseville on Saturday the 18th, to spend a week with us. We are very excited and anxious about seeing her. We have a week of sight seeing planned. I just pray that I will feel as good as I do this week. Kim says she doesn't care but I hate to see her come this far and not see the wonderful history this city has. So if you will pray for a good week for all of us it would be much appreciated.
Well, that's all I have for the moment, will post some photos real soon.
Many Praises to the Lord,
Steph & Steve
What a wonderful week Steve & I had this week. I felt so good all week. We only had one day that was a bit of a struggle at the Clinic (and that was no big deal!) The docs were thrilled with my healing and the fluid stayed off my tummy. We even went somewhere and walked every afternoon. I am so pleased for this time of relief. It renews my hope that things don't always stay tough forever.
Sunday
We got out of Clinic at 10:30am so we decided to go downtown and go on the tour of the WWII Transport Ship. The day was beautiful in the low 80s and sunny. The ship was located next to Heinz Field where there was Pittsburgh Pirates game going on. We managed to find a cheap ($10) parking spot 2 blocks from the ship so it was an easy walk over. Once we got there we were struck by the hugeness of the ship. It is supposed to be the largest ocean sailing vessel ever made. It was also very ugly. If you have ever been on a destroyer or air craft ship they are all shiny and smooth looking. This looked like the work horse that it was. You could see the side rivets, it was very dull and used looking. But very interesting.
Well, we found the beginning of the line and started walking to what we thought was the end... and we walked...and we walked...and finally about a half mile away we found the end. So we parked our selves in line thinking "Oh, this can't be that bad." But it was an hour and 15 mins later until we were in view of the ship with at least 2 hours left to wait. Steve waited in line and I walked up to the hill found a bench and sat to rest. I could see the people up on the top of the ship, nose to fanny. And they were creeping along as slow as the line. So I thought about this a bit more and as disappointed as I was, I decided to bail. Many of you may not know it, but being raised in the military, I am intrigued by military stuff. Especially WWII stuff. So you can imagine how disappointed I was but I am beginning to learn my limitations, besides there is no nice bench to sit down and rest your bum on up on the ship. So we walked on.
On the way to the car we came across the Pittsburgh Rib Fest. Oh boy, did we hit the jackpot.
Even though I could only eat one rib, it was the best thing I have tasted in months. It had been 20 years since I've had a rib and this one was spectacular. Steve ate more. There were rib bbq'ers from all over the United States and boy I could have eatin' one from every stand. They are actual professional chefs who travel around bbq'ing their ribs, briskets, and pulled pork. There was no beef or chicken only pork. Everyone displayed all of their ribbons, trophys and stories of how they became rib connoisseurs. It was delightful.
The rest of the week was a breeze and we were able to get out and see a bit more of Pittsburgh. One of the things we did was buy some games to keep us occupied. So presently we are attempting to master ROOK, it is not difficult but the bidding is a bit tricky. We need to find some one who really knows how to play so they can explain it to us, the directions are not very clear.
We are officially moving into our new condo on Wednesday the 15th. Our new address is:
629 Waterfront Dr., Apt 1106
Munhall, PA 15120
My good friend, Kim Rawlings, is coming in from Roseville on Saturday the 18th, to spend a week with us. We are very excited and anxious about seeing her. We have a week of sight seeing planned. I just pray that I will feel as good as I do this week. Kim says she doesn't care but I hate to see her come this far and not see the wonderful history this city has. So if you will pray for a good week for all of us it would be much appreciated.
Well, that's all I have for the moment, will post some photos real soon.
Many Praises to the Lord,
Steph & Steve
Monday, September 6, 2010
Just a Note about last nite's post
Monday, Sept 6 2010 Labor Day
Last night after closing my post and crawling into bed, I laid there thinking of all the blessings that have been granted me that I never mentioned. There are so many such as my father, my grandmothers, the Hankins Family Reunion and all the folks who are no longer walking on earth.
That is the greatest thing about listing your praises, you can go on forever.
Do you think that God only allows us so many blessings then our limit is over? I hope not because he has been so good to me and want so many more.
Yet, one thing I know is that my greatest blessings come from you; family, friends, pets and just people in general.
God is Great
steph
Last night after closing my post and crawling into bed, I laid there thinking of all the blessings that have been granted me that I never mentioned. There are so many such as my father, my grandmothers, the Hankins Family Reunion and all the folks who are no longer walking on earth.
That is the greatest thing about listing your praises, you can go on forever.
Do you think that God only allows us so many blessings then our limit is over? I hope not because he has been so good to me and want so many more.
Yet, one thing I know is that my greatest blessings come from you; family, friends, pets and just people in general.
God is Great
steph
Sunday, September 5, 2010
Praises & Prayers
Sunday, Sept. 5, 2010
I have decided to try something different this post. Please just bear with me and let me know your thoughts.
PRAISES
These are things which I am very grateful for.
My husband Steve, who cares for me, worries for me, does all the research and incredible reading that goes with this whole process. He also puts up with my fits (yes, I am sorry to say, I can throw a righteous fit!) supports me when I am in pain, takes care of ALL of my meds, (all I have to do is take them.) He is generous with gifts and anything my silly heart desires. He always puts me first before himself and eats the same saltless foods that I do. I am first and foremost in his life right now. For being such a bulldog and making sure things are done properly. Without Steve I probably would not be alive today. Thank you Heavenly Father for you have blessed me so.
My family for all of their encouragement, concern, phone calls, cards and just wanting to be there. My greatest source comes from my mom, Jane, Aunt Betty, then all of you who call and email and read my blog. You are the greatest family ever and I have loved all of you since I was a child.
My childhood which was rich in family, fun, many great adventures and wonderful folks who enriched me beyond what I would have hoped for. All of my memories are happy and full of joy.
My incredible family in Christ, who pray for me and believe in my healing. It is through them that I also am able to have a greater faith in our Lord. I love it when you all share your favorite scriptures and experiences which open up my heart to Christ.
My doctors whom have stood by me for the past 20 years and gave me the encouragement that I can beat this despite all the doom & gloom. The friendship that developed and their pride in me as a fighter. They always made me feel like I was not their ordinary patient but someone special.
Kaiser Permanente for all of their generosity in their benefits, ease of getting through this process and being able to step out of the box for us to make sure our lives are comfortable and we are taken care of. Not many patients have the advantages that we have through Kaiser and it is very frightening to think that we would have to do this on our own. My heart goes out to those who do not have the benefits that Steve & I have been blessed with.
The Dawson family, who so unselfishly have provided so much for us. The support that they give Steve is amazing and they ask so little of him when he is busy with me. They are doing a terrific job of getting along without him and do NOT put any pressure on him. The employees are also attempting to get along without the control freak of a boss and doing a pretty good job. Once again we are blessed with an amazing family.
Our friends from our horsie friends, neighbors, fire fighter friends and especially all those that we consider "family." They not only support us in spirit but do so much in helping with our home, our animals, and are ready at the drop of a hat do anything that needs to be done. It is truly amazing the things which they have done that shows their love for us. Without them this would be a much more stressful event for us.
For my God, who gives me life and a hope that goes beyond anything I could describe. With God in my heart I am able to live, laugh, dream and cry. Whom I can call on when I am frightened, when I am in pain, when I am doubtful and even when I doubt my faith. I am in His hands and it is His will that will that I will try to understand. Thanks for opening my heart to Christ and His family.
For the days that I feel great and am able to get out and not be "sick". These are precious moments and I raise my hands in praise for these moments as they are so important to us. There are always those who have very few of those days. I am so blessed with these moments that they make my heart sing.
For our incredible children, Rob & Heather and their two precious gifts, Ruby & Bodhi. It is amazing to me that they so want to be here and help us deal with all of this. They are never far away from us and we so enjoy each other. We have been so blessed by their love for each other and for the love of their children. We are so proud of them and may God continue to bless them forever.
I am so thankful for my love of life, for my passions, for my love of animals and for my family & friends. There is not much that I absolutely loathe about my life except my disease and even then I can think of ways that it has enriched my life. I love the God's gift of this earth, of books, of learning, of being able to be busy and active and in grooming, caring & riding my horses. I love the companionship of my dogs and my cats; their unconditional love is always so amazing to me. God truly blessed all of us with the friendship, wonder, and beauty of all life.
While I am sure that is not all it is all I have time for tonight.
There is no importance in the sequence of praises, I only wrote what was in my heart. No praise is greater than another, only that they come from God.
I hope you enjoy reading this as much as I did writing it.
God Bless and Grant You Many Praises,
Steve & Steph
I have decided to try something different this post. Please just bear with me and let me know your thoughts.
PRAISES
These are things which I am very grateful for.
My husband Steve, who cares for me, worries for me, does all the research and incredible reading that goes with this whole process. He also puts up with my fits (yes, I am sorry to say, I can throw a righteous fit!) supports me when I am in pain, takes care of ALL of my meds, (all I have to do is take them.) He is generous with gifts and anything my silly heart desires. He always puts me first before himself and eats the same saltless foods that I do. I am first and foremost in his life right now. For being such a bulldog and making sure things are done properly. Without Steve I probably would not be alive today. Thank you Heavenly Father for you have blessed me so.
My family for all of their encouragement, concern, phone calls, cards and just wanting to be there. My greatest source comes from my mom, Jane, Aunt Betty, then all of you who call and email and read my blog. You are the greatest family ever and I have loved all of you since I was a child.
My childhood which was rich in family, fun, many great adventures and wonderful folks who enriched me beyond what I would have hoped for. All of my memories are happy and full of joy.
My incredible family in Christ, who pray for me and believe in my healing. It is through them that I also am able to have a greater faith in our Lord. I love it when you all share your favorite scriptures and experiences which open up my heart to Christ.
My doctors whom have stood by me for the past 20 years and gave me the encouragement that I can beat this despite all the doom & gloom. The friendship that developed and their pride in me as a fighter. They always made me feel like I was not their ordinary patient but someone special.
Kaiser Permanente for all of their generosity in their benefits, ease of getting through this process and being able to step out of the box for us to make sure our lives are comfortable and we are taken care of. Not many patients have the advantages that we have through Kaiser and it is very frightening to think that we would have to do this on our own. My heart goes out to those who do not have the benefits that Steve & I have been blessed with.
The Dawson family, who so unselfishly have provided so much for us. The support that they give Steve is amazing and they ask so little of him when he is busy with me. They are doing a terrific job of getting along without him and do NOT put any pressure on him. The employees are also attempting to get along without the control freak of a boss and doing a pretty good job. Once again we are blessed with an amazing family.
Our friends from our horsie friends, neighbors, fire fighter friends and especially all those that we consider "family." They not only support us in spirit but do so much in helping with our home, our animals, and are ready at the drop of a hat do anything that needs to be done. It is truly amazing the things which they have done that shows their love for us. Without them this would be a much more stressful event for us.
For my God, who gives me life and a hope that goes beyond anything I could describe. With God in my heart I am able to live, laugh, dream and cry. Whom I can call on when I am frightened, when I am in pain, when I am doubtful and even when I doubt my faith. I am in His hands and it is His will that will that I will try to understand. Thanks for opening my heart to Christ and His family.
For the days that I feel great and am able to get out and not be "sick". These are precious moments and I raise my hands in praise for these moments as they are so important to us. There are always those who have very few of those days. I am so blessed with these moments that they make my heart sing.
For our incredible children, Rob & Heather and their two precious gifts, Ruby & Bodhi. It is amazing to me that they so want to be here and help us deal with all of this. They are never far away from us and we so enjoy each other. We have been so blessed by their love for each other and for the love of their children. We are so proud of them and may God continue to bless them forever.
I am so thankful for my love of life, for my passions, for my love of animals and for my family & friends. There is not much that I absolutely loathe about my life except my disease and even then I can think of ways that it has enriched my life. I love the God's gift of this earth, of books, of learning, of being able to be busy and active and in grooming, caring & riding my horses. I love the companionship of my dogs and my cats; their unconditional love is always so amazing to me. God truly blessed all of us with the friendship, wonder, and beauty of all life.
While I am sure that is not all it is all I have time for tonight.
There is no importance in the sequence of praises, I only wrote what was in my heart. No praise is greater than another, only that they come from God.
I hope you enjoy reading this as much as I did writing it.
God Bless and Grant You Many Praises,
Steve & Steph
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Phipps Conservatory
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Sunday, August 29, 2010
Phipps Conservatory, Schenely Park Pittsburgh, PA
These are just a few of the photos, I will try to post a few more tomorrow. I haven't quite figured this part out yet.
Please enjoy!
Steph & Steve
An Average Day...? Not So Average
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
The one thing I have learned that there is no such thing as a normal, average, or routine day around here. The last 3 days have been crazy and in such a way as there is not any warning about what is coming up next from moment to moment.
The morning may begin like any other day; nice and routine but when the blood work results come back from the lab, chaos could break loose and I end up staying all day. If the blood work results are favorable, we are out of there by 11:ooam. But if not so good, that could mean more IV's, a blood transfusion, a trip to have an CAT scan or x-ray. We even had to go down and have my PICC line redone. This all takes time and can be very tiring. Yet, we are coming to grips with it and just don't plan on anything and are grateful when the day goes our way.
Sunday was a blessed day. We left the clinic at 10:30. So we decided to go out and see Pittsburgh. We chose a park located downtown that has an incredible Conservatory. It is called the Phipps Conservatory and was first opened in 1893. The buildings are all glass and are beautifully built. The conservatory is divided into several sections and the current theme was "Gargoyles meets Gorgeous." Each section was dedicated to different cultures and their ideas on the mythological gargoyles. Each garden was filled with native trees, grasses, flowers & then native gargoyles. It was not only incredibly beautiful but you really got the feel for the culture that each display depicted. The only thing was I got tired fairly easily and after an hour we only made it through approximately one-third of the displays. So we went down to the cafe where we had a delicious sandwich, then proceeded to the gift shop where Steve bought a T-shirt with magic frogs all over it. We haven't seen why they are magic but we get lots of comments on the conservatory. We will definitely go back to see the rest, especially the butterfly house. It was a great few hours and did us a lot of good. A gift from God.
Today's highlight was a visit with the bone marrow specialist. That is a very scary thing for me as they are always doom & gloom or they want to do another horrendous bone marrow biopsy. While he did not spare any of the doom & gloom, he did give us the clearance to go ahead with the transplant. He left us saying that we will probably come back after a couple of years of fair health and need a bone marrow transplant. Oh Joy! I need lots of prayer on that, that is a tough battle on its own. We left very depressed and I was in tears for about an hour. One thing the doctor did say was that the visceral transplant is my only chance of survival and that it was a "no-brainer." It is all in God's hands.
We are anxious to move to our apartment only 2 more weeks, then Kim is coming out for a week, I just pray we have the time and energy to go out and do things. Then Rob wants to come for a few days, I don't worry about him so much as he wants to meet the docs and see what all this is about. I might have a chance to adopt a female jack russell, as long as we can find a "village" to help with her. Steve does not want to worry about her if he has to be at the hospital with me. He got the "village" ideal from good ole Hillary, "it takes a village to raise a child." I can not disagree with him so I have to go with it. If it is meant to be, it will happen.
Okay, thats enough about us for one post. Please let me hear from you all and what is going on in California, Oklahoma, Nevada & Florida. I will post some photos from the conservatory, I hope you enjoy them. Please keep the prayers going.
God Bless & Keep all of You,
Steve & Steph
The one thing I have learned that there is no such thing as a normal, average, or routine day around here. The last 3 days have been crazy and in such a way as there is not any warning about what is coming up next from moment to moment.
The morning may begin like any other day; nice and routine but when the blood work results come back from the lab, chaos could break loose and I end up staying all day. If the blood work results are favorable, we are out of there by 11:ooam. But if not so good, that could mean more IV's, a blood transfusion, a trip to have an CAT scan or x-ray. We even had to go down and have my PICC line redone. This all takes time and can be very tiring. Yet, we are coming to grips with it and just don't plan on anything and are grateful when the day goes our way.
Sunday was a blessed day. We left the clinic at 10:30. So we decided to go out and see Pittsburgh. We chose a park located downtown that has an incredible Conservatory. It is called the Phipps Conservatory and was first opened in 1893. The buildings are all glass and are beautifully built. The conservatory is divided into several sections and the current theme was "Gargoyles meets Gorgeous." Each section was dedicated to different cultures and their ideas on the mythological gargoyles. Each garden was filled with native trees, grasses, flowers & then native gargoyles. It was not only incredibly beautiful but you really got the feel for the culture that each display depicted. The only thing was I got tired fairly easily and after an hour we only made it through approximately one-third of the displays. So we went down to the cafe where we had a delicious sandwich, then proceeded to the gift shop where Steve bought a T-shirt with magic frogs all over it. We haven't seen why they are magic but we get lots of comments on the conservatory. We will definitely go back to see the rest, especially the butterfly house. It was a great few hours and did us a lot of good. A gift from God.
Today's highlight was a visit with the bone marrow specialist. That is a very scary thing for me as they are always doom & gloom or they want to do another horrendous bone marrow biopsy. While he did not spare any of the doom & gloom, he did give us the clearance to go ahead with the transplant. He left us saying that we will probably come back after a couple of years of fair health and need a bone marrow transplant. Oh Joy! I need lots of prayer on that, that is a tough battle on its own. We left very depressed and I was in tears for about an hour. One thing the doctor did say was that the visceral transplant is my only chance of survival and that it was a "no-brainer." It is all in God's hands.
We are anxious to move to our apartment only 2 more weeks, then Kim is coming out for a week, I just pray we have the time and energy to go out and do things. Then Rob wants to come for a few days, I don't worry about him so much as he wants to meet the docs and see what all this is about. I might have a chance to adopt a female jack russell, as long as we can find a "village" to help with her. Steve does not want to worry about her if he has to be at the hospital with me. He got the "village" ideal from good ole Hillary, "it takes a village to raise a child." I can not disagree with him so I have to go with it. If it is meant to be, it will happen.
Okay, thats enough about us for one post. Please let me hear from you all and what is going on in California, Oklahoma, Nevada & Florida. I will post some photos from the conservatory, I hope you enjoy them. Please keep the prayers going.
God Bless & Keep all of You,
Steve & Steph
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