Thursday, December 31, 2009
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Breaths
Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away .....
Young bride in white, walking toward my husband at the altar ……
Instantly knowing that new life was growing inside of my body (times three) ........
Locking my eyes with the eyes of each of our three daughters for the first time .......
Holding my grandson to my chest and kissing his head for the first time ........
Clutching and reflecting on a life of love from my parents …....
Walking out of a hospital from Intensive Care Units and breathing in fresh air as I recognized God's faithfulness from delivering me once again (grass never looks so green or the sky so blue as when I emerge from a hospital stay) ……
Glimpsing each of our daughters in their wedding gowns for the first time …..
Swallowing with pride and gratefulness as I watched each of our daughters receive their college diplomas ……
Ocean waves bounding toward me with the mighty roar of God’s power…..
Mountain heights touching the Heavenlies ......
Niagara Falls’ thundering power and presence ……
Beauty and serenity of walking in a snowstorm
…… the hush that the blanket of new-fallen snow emits.
The moments that have taken my breath away …….
Young bride in white, walking toward my husband at the altar ……
Instantly knowing that new life was growing inside of my body (times three) ........
Locking my eyes with the eyes of each of our three daughters for the first time .......
Holding my grandson to my chest and kissing his head for the first time ........
Clutching and reflecting on a life of love from my parents …....
Walking out of a hospital from Intensive Care Units and breathing in fresh air as I recognized God's faithfulness from delivering me once again (grass never looks so green or the sky so blue as when I emerge from a hospital stay) ……
Glimpsing each of our daughters in their wedding gowns for the first time …..
Swallowing with pride and gratefulness as I watched each of our daughters receive their college diplomas ……
Ocean waves bounding toward me with the mighty roar of God’s power…..
Mountain heights touching the Heavenlies ......
Niagara Falls’ thundering power and presence ……
Beauty and serenity of walking in a snowstorm
…… the hush that the blanket of new-fallen snow emits.
The moments that have taken my breath away …….
I'm Weary
When I contemplate adjectives that best describe my life as I step into another year with leukemia as my cohort, “weary” comes to mind. Weary is defined as “tired; run out of strength, patience or endurance; and exhausted”. Do those words ever illustrate my life right now!
My physical body is tired of over thirteen years with tests and needles, medicines and pain. I long for a day that is free of pain. My mind is tired of researching treatment options and late-breaking research on leukemia. I am tired. Very, very tired.
I am certain that God has compassion on me when He looks from the Heavenlies and sees my weary mind, body and soul. In Matthew 9, when he saw the multitudes, we are told, “…He was moved with compassion for them, because they were weary …..” That offers me some comfort and solace. He knows. He sees. He understands.
And while the knowledge that God is aware of my weariness is comforting, I know deep in my heart, that I must continue to battle weariness lest it overwhelm and hijack my life. Galatians 6:9 reminds me: “Let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.” The reality being that when we are weary and running out of the oomph that life demands, we benefit by focusing on doing good for others. It distracts us from our own pain and suffering. And if we do not “lose heart”, we are going to be blessed for our efforts to look after the needs of others.
I believe this is part of the reason that Lil Man has been such a blessing to me. It would be far easier to lay in bed everyday with the pain and exhaustion my body battles each day. Nevertheless, by pulling myself up and chasing after my precious grandson, I am blessed. He is blessed to be watched by family who dearly love him while his Mommy is at work. I am blessed by the distractions he provides for me against pain and leukemia. I must continue to battle this weariness. I do not want it to overcome my life and purpose. I must not lose heart. Lil Man is counting on his Grammy!
My physical body is tired of over thirteen years with tests and needles, medicines and pain. I long for a day that is free of pain. My mind is tired of researching treatment options and late-breaking research on leukemia. I am tired. Very, very tired.
I am certain that God has compassion on me when He looks from the Heavenlies and sees my weary mind, body and soul. In Matthew 9, when he saw the multitudes, we are told, “…He was moved with compassion for them, because they were weary …..” That offers me some comfort and solace. He knows. He sees. He understands.
And while the knowledge that God is aware of my weariness is comforting, I know deep in my heart, that I must continue to battle weariness lest it overwhelm and hijack my life. Galatians 6:9 reminds me: “Let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.” The reality being that when we are weary and running out of the oomph that life demands, we benefit by focusing on doing good for others. It distracts us from our own pain and suffering. And if we do not “lose heart”, we are going to be blessed for our efforts to look after the needs of others.
I believe this is part of the reason that Lil Man has been such a blessing to me. It would be far easier to lay in bed everyday with the pain and exhaustion my body battles each day. Nevertheless, by pulling myself up and chasing after my precious grandson, I am blessed. He is blessed to be watched by family who dearly love him while his Mommy is at work. I am blessed by the distractions he provides for me against pain and leukemia. I must continue to battle this weariness. I do not want it to overcome my life and purpose. I must not lose heart. Lil Man is counting on his Grammy!
Monday, December 28, 2009
One Month Left
Have you ever reflected on what you would do and how you would live if you were told that you had one month to live? If like most people, you have never pondered such concerns. "The end" seems very remote to most souls and their focus remains on living life as though there will be thousands of tomorrows.
A diagnosis of leukemia at age 33 changed my life and immediately, I began living my life as though my days had been numbered and were quickly fading away. I can tell you with authority, being told that your life is finite, and perhaps, quickly finite, will change one's heart and soul. Foremost, I knew that I wanted my life to be pleasing to the Lord. I had professed Him as my Savior for many years, perhaps with a level of mediocrity. With the cancer diagnosis, I knew that each day, I wanted to remain repentant and to keep my heart and soul pleasing to Him. Not knowing the exact moment of our deaths (or the return of Christ at the Rapture) should make each of us aware of that moment when we will meet our Savior face to face to give an account of our lives. And for those who have shunned and denied Jesus as the Lord of their lives, reflecting on the possibility that they have been wrong about eternal life requiring the forgiveness of a Savior
With one month to live, I (and most of my readers) would most likely live those thirty or thirty-one days quite differently than the status quo of our current methods of living life. Let us complete an exercise in visualizing our past week - reflect on decisions we have made; places we have visited; words we have uttered; sins we have committed; or how we have spent each of the 1440 minutes in our days. If we absolutely, positively knew that our last thirty days of our life calendars were ticking away, what would have changed about the way we thought, spoke, or acted in the past month? These are important facts to ponder and contemplate. Let us take a few moments before we close our eyes tonight to consider the ramifications of how we are utilizing each moment of our lives .
Let us review the 139th Psalm.
1 O LORD, you have searched me
and you know me.
2 You know when I sit and when I rise;
you perceive my thoughts from afar.
3 You discern my going out and my lying down;
you are familiar with all my ways.
4 Before a word is on my tongue
you know it completely, O LORD.
5 You hem me in—behind and before;
you have laid your hand upon me.
6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me,
too lofty for me to attain.
7 Where can I go from your Spirit?
Where can I flee from your presence?
8 If I go up to the heavens, you are there;
if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.
9 If I rise on the wings of the dawn,
if I settle on the far side of the sea,
10 even there your hand will guide me,
your right hand will hold me fast.
11 If I say, "Surely the darkness will hide me
and the light become night around me,"
12 even the darkness will not be dark to you;
the night will shine like the day,
for darkness is as light to you.
13 For you created my inmost being;
you knit me together in my mother's womb.
14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful,
I know that full well.
15 My frame was not hidden from you
when I was made in the secret place.
When I was woven together in the depths of the earth,
16 your eyes saw my unformed body.
All the days ordained for me
were written in your book
before one of them came to be.
17 How precious to me are your thoughts, O God!
How vast is the sum of them!
18 Were I to count them,
they would outnumber the grains of sand.
When I awake,
I am still with you.
19 If only you would slay the wicked, O God!
Away from me, you bloodthirsty men!
20 They speak of you with evil intent;
your adversaries misuse your name.
21 Do I not hate those who hate you, O LORD,
and abhor those who rise up against you?
22 I have nothing but hatred for them;
I count them my enemies.
23 Search me, O God, and know my heart;
test me and know my anxious thoughts.
24 See if there is any offensive way in me,
and lead me in the way everlasting.
Whenever I read this Psalm, I marvel at the depth of intimacy God the Father has with His children. He has known us since the moment of our conception - all of our days were ordained by Him before the first day of our lives arrived. He knows our thoughts, the words about to slide off of our tongues, our going out and coming in, He knows it all. He sees it all. If we are foolish enough to think we can continue living lives of sinful speech, actions, thoughts or deeds that He does not know about, we are lying to ourselves. God loves each of us so much. He longs for our hearts to be dedicated to Him and His Word.
I write these words and share these life stories of mine with the sole intention that God will anoint and breathe on my mortal words so that they will awaken the hearts and souls of men and women around the world. That these mere words, when touched by the Holy Spirit, will burn in the hearts of those who read them and make each one realize that today could be the last day for any of us. Envision our last moments ticking off the eternal clock God has set for each of us and our lives being as filthy rags.
Isaiah 64:5-6
You are indeed angry, for we have sinned—
In these ways we continue;
And we need to be saved.
But we are all like an unclean thing,
And all our righteousnesses are like filthy rags;
Forgive us, today, Father, for our sins. Make our lives, filthy indeed, to be cleaned and redeemed by the blood of precious Jesus. Empower and equip each of us to live today as though it is our last day before we meet you, face to face. In Jesus' Name I pray. AMEN.
A diagnosis of leukemia at age 33 changed my life and immediately, I began living my life as though my days had been numbered and were quickly fading away. I can tell you with authority, being told that your life is finite, and perhaps, quickly finite, will change one's heart and soul. Foremost, I knew that I wanted my life to be pleasing to the Lord. I had professed Him as my Savior for many years, perhaps with a level of mediocrity. With the cancer diagnosis, I knew that each day, I wanted to remain repentant and to keep my heart and soul pleasing to Him. Not knowing the exact moment of our deaths (or the return of Christ at the Rapture) should make each of us aware of that moment when we will meet our Savior face to face to give an account of our lives. And for those who have shunned and denied Jesus as the Lord of their lives, reflecting on the possibility that they have been wrong about eternal life requiring the forgiveness of a Savior
With one month to live, I (and most of my readers) would most likely live those thirty or thirty-one days quite differently than the status quo of our current methods of living life. Let us complete an exercise in visualizing our past week - reflect on decisions we have made; places we have visited; words we have uttered; sins we have committed; or how we have spent each of the 1440 minutes in our days. If we absolutely, positively knew that our last thirty days of our life calendars were ticking away, what would have changed about the way we thought, spoke, or acted in the past month? These are important facts to ponder and contemplate. Let us take a few moments before we close our eyes tonight to consider the ramifications of how we are utilizing each moment of our lives .
Let us review the 139th Psalm.
1 O LORD, you have searched me
and you know me.
2 You know when I sit and when I rise;
you perceive my thoughts from afar.
3 You discern my going out and my lying down;
you are familiar with all my ways.
4 Before a word is on my tongue
you know it completely, O LORD.
5 You hem me in—behind and before;
you have laid your hand upon me.
6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me,
too lofty for me to attain.
7 Where can I go from your Spirit?
Where can I flee from your presence?
8 If I go up to the heavens, you are there;
if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.
9 If I rise on the wings of the dawn,
if I settle on the far side of the sea,
10 even there your hand will guide me,
your right hand will hold me fast.
11 If I say, "Surely the darkness will hide me
and the light become night around me,"
12 even the darkness will not be dark to you;
the night will shine like the day,
for darkness is as light to you.
13 For you created my inmost being;
you knit me together in my mother's womb.
14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful,
I know that full well.
15 My frame was not hidden from you
when I was made in the secret place.
When I was woven together in the depths of the earth,
16 your eyes saw my unformed body.
All the days ordained for me
were written in your book
before one of them came to be.
17 How precious to me are your thoughts, O God!
How vast is the sum of them!
18 Were I to count them,
they would outnumber the grains of sand.
When I awake,
I am still with you.
19 If only you would slay the wicked, O God!
Away from me, you bloodthirsty men!
20 They speak of you with evil intent;
your adversaries misuse your name.
21 Do I not hate those who hate you, O LORD,
and abhor those who rise up against you?
22 I have nothing but hatred for them;
I count them my enemies.
23 Search me, O God, and know my heart;
test me and know my anxious thoughts.
24 See if there is any offensive way in me,
and lead me in the way everlasting.
Whenever I read this Psalm, I marvel at the depth of intimacy God the Father has with His children. He has known us since the moment of our conception - all of our days were ordained by Him before the first day of our lives arrived. He knows our thoughts, the words about to slide off of our tongues, our going out and coming in, He knows it all. He sees it all. If we are foolish enough to think we can continue living lives of sinful speech, actions, thoughts or deeds that He does not know about, we are lying to ourselves. God loves each of us so much. He longs for our hearts to be dedicated to Him and His Word.
I write these words and share these life stories of mine with the sole intention that God will anoint and breathe on my mortal words so that they will awaken the hearts and souls of men and women around the world. That these mere words, when touched by the Holy Spirit, will burn in the hearts of those who read them and make each one realize that today could be the last day for any of us. Envision our last moments ticking off the eternal clock God has set for each of us and our lives being as filthy rags.
Isaiah 64:5-6
You are indeed angry, for we have sinned—
In these ways we continue;
And we need to be saved.
But we are all like an unclean thing,
And all our righteousnesses are like filthy rags;
Forgive us, today, Father, for our sins. Make our lives, filthy indeed, to be cleaned and redeemed by the blood of precious Jesus. Empower and equip each of us to live today as though it is our last day before we meet you, face to face. In Jesus' Name I pray. AMEN.
Cotton Candy
Do you recall the pastel colored fluffs of cotton candy that we savored as children at the circus and carnivals? Last night's snow covered bushes and the Christmas lights beneath formed these colored fluffs of "snow candy".
Request for Prayer & Update: December 28, 2009
I haven't updated on my health as I have tried to ignore my nemesis leukemia during the celebrating of Christmas. The trees are down, the gifts are unwrapped, and leukemia is back, stomping its foot and rearing its ugly head, demanding my attention once again.
I had blood drawn today and I absolutely, utterly failed my test! If you know me well, you know that I do not take kindly to failing anything - I am a perfectionist and over-achiever! On today's CBC there were 10 categories of testing and all ten were abnormal. That would be a sort of perfection, wouldn't it? Perfectly horrible!
I am neutropenic again. I have spent the bulk of 2009 with prolonged, chronic neutropenia (low counts of neutrophils, a category of white cells that are vital for fighting infection, especially bacterial infections). It doesn't require a brain surgeon to know what this is representative of a failing bone marrow that is no longer functioning and sustaining my life without medical intervention, in the form of Neupogen injections. I can go about 4-5 days and then I require another injection. I know these injections are contributing to the other sources of the severe bone pain that I am experiencing. Another needle, another day.
I realized that I had not updated after the MRI's and x-rays before Christmas. The chest x-ray was clear for infection and leukemic infiltrates. That is a praise! I experienced a true Christmas miracle in that I was able to complete the MRI's. I am very claustrophobic and can allow doctors to prod my bone marrow with 12 inch needles without sedation, but a painless scan forces shivers down my spine.
I took my praise and worship CD and the technician was a Christian with an IPOD full of Christian music by my favorite artists. She played that for me and talked me through both MRI's - they took over an hour and I kept looking back over the top of my head and could see the ceiling tile grids - they formed a perfect cross over the top of me. I kept telling myself if Jesus could and would hang on a cross for me, surely I could survive the MRI, with His help. And I did!
There were no fractures in the hip structure (due to chronic steroid use). The signals in the marrow were altered and my NIH leukemia specialist suspects that this is caused by the marrow being so impacted by leukemia that the normal fat or hematopoietic (blood forming) cells are not producing normal marrow signals. The NIH is going to review these MRI films and reports to offer us more information.
The MRI on my lower back revealed complete loss of bone marrow signal intensity. If my bones are this impacted by the leukemia, no wonder I am in such pain. Three herniated discs are also contributing to my pain concerns. The radiologist did not feel the discs were such that steroid injections into the nerve roots would be beneficial for me, so that pain relief option is off the table.
Please pray for 2010 to bring me another year of life, no matter the battles I must face and fight. Please pray for God to be merciful and to hear our cries to protect me from life-threatening infections and bone marrow failure.
I had blood drawn today and I absolutely, utterly failed my test! If you know me well, you know that I do not take kindly to failing anything - I am a perfectionist and over-achiever! On today's CBC there were 10 categories of testing and all ten were abnormal. That would be a sort of perfection, wouldn't it? Perfectly horrible!
I am neutropenic again. I have spent the bulk of 2009 with prolonged, chronic neutropenia (low counts of neutrophils, a category of white cells that are vital for fighting infection, especially bacterial infections). It doesn't require a brain surgeon to know what this is representative of a failing bone marrow that is no longer functioning and sustaining my life without medical intervention, in the form of Neupogen injections. I can go about 4-5 days and then I require another injection. I know these injections are contributing to the other sources of the severe bone pain that I am experiencing. Another needle, another day.
I realized that I had not updated after the MRI's and x-rays before Christmas. The chest x-ray was clear for infection and leukemic infiltrates. That is a praise! I experienced a true Christmas miracle in that I was able to complete the MRI's. I am very claustrophobic and can allow doctors to prod my bone marrow with 12 inch needles without sedation, but a painless scan forces shivers down my spine.
I took my praise and worship CD and the technician was a Christian with an IPOD full of Christian music by my favorite artists. She played that for me and talked me through both MRI's - they took over an hour and I kept looking back over the top of my head and could see the ceiling tile grids - they formed a perfect cross over the top of me. I kept telling myself if Jesus could and would hang on a cross for me, surely I could survive the MRI, with His help. And I did!
There were no fractures in the hip structure (due to chronic steroid use). The signals in the marrow were altered and my NIH leukemia specialist suspects that this is caused by the marrow being so impacted by leukemia that the normal fat or hematopoietic (blood forming) cells are not producing normal marrow signals. The NIH is going to review these MRI films and reports to offer us more information.
The MRI on my lower back revealed complete loss of bone marrow signal intensity. If my bones are this impacted by the leukemia, no wonder I am in such pain. Three herniated discs are also contributing to my pain concerns. The radiologist did not feel the discs were such that steroid injections into the nerve roots would be beneficial for me, so that pain relief option is off the table.
Please pray for 2010 to bring me another year of life, no matter the battles I must face and fight. Please pray for God to be merciful and to hear our cries to protect me from life-threatening infections and bone marrow failure.
"Twas the Night Before Christmas Revisited
.....Twas the night before Christmas and all through the house
How many times have I read and recited this classic to my children? Too many times to enumerate. Although the classic represents the secular Santa side of Christmas, the words enthrall children and adults alike.
......Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse
This year my husband purchased the Hallmark version of Twas the Night Before Christmas. New to the time honored classic was the recordable features of the story book. The purchaser of the Hallmark book is able to read and record themselves as they recite the story. In theory, we thought it would be a wonderful, timeless gift for our Grandson if I recorded myself reading the book to him.
......The stockings were hung by the chimney with care
Little did I know what a challenge to my spirit recording this book would pose. Each week of December I added "Record Book" to my Outlook reminders. And each week would pass and I would glance at the book and tear up, pondering if this reading of Twas the Night Before Christmas would be my final reading of it for my grandson. After all, May 2009 delivered the label, "end stage leukemia" to me and I knew, apart from God's intervention, Christmas 2009 could very well be my final Christmas.
........In hopes that Saint Nicholas soon would be there
After ignoring the Outlook reminders too many times, December 24th arrived and the book sat on the counter, unread, unrecorded and unwrapped. At the urging of my husband, I sat down near midnight and opened the book before me. For a second, I choked up and had one of my moments of doubt when I wondered if another Christmas would be blessed upon me.
....The children were nestled all snug in their beds
I mustered the strength and fortitude that I could in and of myself, then I cried out to God to enable me to complete this recording and to be able to present this priceless gift to my grandson. The tears dried up, my voice stopped quivering and with the love and excitement that I read this story to my own children through the years, I read it, once again for Lil Man. I thank God for giving me the ability to read the story - on this past Christmas Eve and hopefully, for many, many more Christmas Eves in my future will I be able to read this classic, in person, to Lil Man.
How many times have I read and recited this classic to my children? Too many times to enumerate. Although the classic represents the secular Santa side of Christmas, the words enthrall children and adults alike.
......Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse
This year my husband purchased the Hallmark version of Twas the Night Before Christmas. New to the time honored classic was the recordable features of the story book. The purchaser of the Hallmark book is able to read and record themselves as they recite the story. In theory, we thought it would be a wonderful, timeless gift for our Grandson if I recorded myself reading the book to him.
......The stockings were hung by the chimney with care
Little did I know what a challenge to my spirit recording this book would pose. Each week of December I added "Record Book" to my Outlook reminders. And each week would pass and I would glance at the book and tear up, pondering if this reading of Twas the Night Before Christmas would be my final reading of it for my grandson. After all, May 2009 delivered the label, "end stage leukemia" to me and I knew, apart from God's intervention, Christmas 2009 could very well be my final Christmas.
........In hopes that Saint Nicholas soon would be there
After ignoring the Outlook reminders too many times, December 24th arrived and the book sat on the counter, unread, unrecorded and unwrapped. At the urging of my husband, I sat down near midnight and opened the book before me. For a second, I choked up and had one of my moments of doubt when I wondered if another Christmas would be blessed upon me.
....The children were nestled all snug in their beds
I mustered the strength and fortitude that I could in and of myself, then I cried out to God to enable me to complete this recording and to be able to present this priceless gift to my grandson. The tears dried up, my voice stopped quivering and with the love and excitement that I read this story to my own children through the years, I read it, once again for Lil Man. I thank God for giving me the ability to read the story - on this past Christmas Eve and hopefully, for many, many more Christmas Eves in my future will I be able to read this classic, in person, to Lil Man.
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Christmas Strike
I have been composing my "Review of 2009" for my blog. I am truly marveling at all that I have been through this year and all that God has brought me through this year. If you believe you have never witnessed or known a miracle of God - take a moment to reflect on all of the serious situations from which He has delivered me this year. He has been so faithful and good to me.
A part of me became very heavy hearted and fatigued just reading and reviewing how much time, effort, and resources that leukemia has robbed from me in 2009. Upon my review of 2009's blog entries, I made an executive decision today - I am going ON STRIKE from all medical appointments, lab draws, and injections for two days - Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
I called the doctor's office and told them to cancel my Christmas Eve blood draw appointment. The receptionist, I believe, was concerned and questioned my logic (kind wording for sanity). I assured her that I have decided I am going to take my Neupogen injection tonight (instead of tomorrow) at home, thus, helping to ward off any spells of neutropenia over the Christmas celebrations.
So, I am officially, ON STRIKE from all medical interventions to celebrate Christmas. I might like this strike so well that I may never return to the world of doctors, treatments, and hospitals.
A part of me became very heavy hearted and fatigued just reading and reviewing how much time, effort, and resources that leukemia has robbed from me in 2009. Upon my review of 2009's blog entries, I made an executive decision today - I am going ON STRIKE from all medical appointments, lab draws, and injections for two days - Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
I called the doctor's office and told them to cancel my Christmas Eve blood draw appointment. The receptionist, I believe, was concerned and questioned my logic (kind wording for sanity). I assured her that I have decided I am going to take my Neupogen injection tonight (instead of tomorrow) at home, thus, helping to ward off any spells of neutropenia over the Christmas celebrations.
So, I am officially, ON STRIKE from all medical interventions to celebrate Christmas. I might like this strike so well that I may never return to the world of doctors, treatments, and hospitals.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
My Enchanted Christmas Forest
This evergreen vignette holds numerous Christmas memories for me. The wooden sleigh and rocking horse ornaments were purchased on our honeymoon some 27 years ago. The Christmas Mouse (low center) was one of the few drug store ornaments placed on our first Christmas tree as newlyweds (I now ponder who would want mice on their Christmas tree?) The white snowflake ornament also partook in our first Christmas tree. My brother (only 11 years old on our first Christmas together) took it off of my parents' Christmas tree and brought it to our house. I believe he was concerned we wouldn't have decorations at our new home. It has been on our tree every year since he donated it to our cause!
I adore Christmas - the perfect time of year to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. We fill our home with decorated trees. The twinkling lights on each one,
I adore Christmas - the perfect time of year to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. We fill our home with decorated trees. The twinkling lights on each one, remind us of the Light of the World whose birth we are celebrating. The ornaments and decorations, all hold special memories, stories, and meaning to me. This photo shows our formal living room tree's ornaments - crosses, scrolls with Scripture, and other decorations that represent the True meaning of Christmas.
This is a full-length photo of the living room tree. My Christmas present from my husband was a new digital camera and I am still mastering the lighting and functions on the camera.
This is a full-length photo of the living room tree. My Christmas present from my husband was a new digital camera and I am still mastering the lighting and functions on the camera.
This tree is one of my favorites and is in our Great Room. It is bedecked with ornaments that each tell a story. Some were handmade by our daughters when they were young. Others were gifts from family and friends. Wooden bead garlands are reminiscent of trees from bygone eras. This tree warms my heart and brings tears to my eyes as I treasure each ornament's memories.
Snow speaks to my spirit. The hush of a night-time snowfall invites me to walk in it as the flakes tumble from Heaven onto my little piece of earth. A childlike portion of my heart becomes extremely excited for snow on Christmas. These ornaments hang on my snowman themed Christmas tree. 
My newest tree addition was made last Christmas. It can be found in the nursery at our home for our baby grandson. This is one of his ornaments on his baby blue tree decorated with all ornaments related to a baby boy.
Our kitchen Christmas tree is decorated with gingerbread boys and girls and candy garlands.
This tree is decorated with angels. Many of the angels are little girls, purchased when our three daughters were at home - they even have curly hair if you look closely. It is a reminder to me of the golden streets, lined with angels and the Light of the World who will welcome me when I enter the gates of Heaven.
On the Angel Tree, we have a photo of our beloved Golden Retriever, who passed away a few years ago. We had raised her from a tiny puppy of 5 weeks to 12 years of age. She brought great joy to our home and she is an angel in our memories and on this Christmas tree. Monday, December 21, 2009
New York City
Our daughter and son-in-law (after numerous travel delays), returned home early this morning after their trip to New York City. I thought I would post a few more of their photographs.
TOP: SpongeBob Meets Son-in-Law
BOTTOM: Daughter in Central Park after Saturday's Snowfall
Climate Comedy
A fellow leukemia warrior shared this photo with me entitled:
THOUSANDS PROTEST GLOBAL WARMING SUMMIT
The President of the United States traveled to Copenhagen for a summit on global warming.
And, it was estimated that Air Force One emitted 196 tons of carbon to carry the President on the round trip to Copenhagen to banter about global warming.
Thus, a Canadian company committed to plant 1,176 trees to offset the carbon emitted by Air Force One.
And, on the return to Washington, DC, Air Force One struggled to land in an historical snowfall in DC that welcomed back the President from his discussions on global warming's effects on the planet.
Mortal men at work, believing they can control and dictate the weather, the environment, the atmosphere and everything else in this world forgot,
"When He utters His voice— There is a multitude of waters in the heavens: “ He causes the vapors to ascend from the ends of the earth; He makes lightnings for the rain; He brings the wind out of His treasuries (Jeremiah 51:16).”
I found it quite comical to watch this global discussion on global warming to conclude with the President returning to Washington, DC's deepest snowfall in 70 years. Forget it, counters of carbon emissions, God's in control of this earth - not you!
Prayer Requests for Others
In accordance to James 5:16, I post these requests for prayer for others. This Scripture instructs us: "Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much."
I have become acquainted online with four leukemia patients' wives. The five of us were all diagnosed within a couple of years of each other (1996-1998 for the most part)with the same leukemia. The battles are raging and all of our bodies are failing and faltering. Please pray collectively for our group. I know each of their wives have stood by these men and would appreciate your prayers. I am concerned we will not all live to see next Christmas.
Mike - Currently hospitalized. Has had serious infection. Bone marrow struggling to produce cells. Will try another attempt at saving his life tomorrow with a new treatment. Please pray for his wife Cindy as she must be weary.
Lady Di's husband - Di refers to her husband and me as the CLL Twins. Our cases have been amazingly similar. He completed a round of half-dose treatment around the same time I completed half-dose Rituxan this summer. Both of us knew that full dose chemotherapy would be suicidal. He is currently on oxygen and struggling with low oxygen levels.
Bruce - Hospitalized in Canada, undergoing his SECOND stem cell transplant. He has developed many complications this past week. Please pray that the doctors will be able to save his life.
Tom - Very ill and struggling with infections and other complications of a long-term leukemia battle.
In addition, to the five of us leukemia warriors needing prayer, I request that you pray for our son-in-law's brother. Our son-in-law was in end stage kidney failure (from a genetic kidney disorder) and he received a perfect kidney transplant two years ago and is thriving. However, his older brother is very ill. He is a minister of the Gospel and in need of a Christmas miracle. He is facing many challenges right now and thus far, a kidney has not become available for his transplant.
Thank you for your prayers.
I have become acquainted online with four leukemia patients' wives. The five of us were all diagnosed within a couple of years of each other (1996-1998 for the most part)with the same leukemia. The battles are raging and all of our bodies are failing and faltering. Please pray collectively for our group. I know each of their wives have stood by these men and would appreciate your prayers. I am concerned we will not all live to see next Christmas.
Mike - Currently hospitalized. Has had serious infection. Bone marrow struggling to produce cells. Will try another attempt at saving his life tomorrow with a new treatment. Please pray for his wife Cindy as she must be weary.
Lady Di's husband - Di refers to her husband and me as the CLL Twins. Our cases have been amazingly similar. He completed a round of half-dose treatment around the same time I completed half-dose Rituxan this summer. Both of us knew that full dose chemotherapy would be suicidal. He is currently on oxygen and struggling with low oxygen levels.
Bruce - Hospitalized in Canada, undergoing his SECOND stem cell transplant. He has developed many complications this past week. Please pray that the doctors will be able to save his life.
Tom - Very ill and struggling with infections and other complications of a long-term leukemia battle.
In addition, to the five of us leukemia warriors needing prayer, I request that you pray for our son-in-law's brother. Our son-in-law was in end stage kidney failure (from a genetic kidney disorder) and he received a perfect kidney transplant two years ago and is thriving. However, his older brother is very ill. He is a minister of the Gospel and in need of a Christmas miracle. He is facing many challenges right now and thus far, a kidney has not become available for his transplant.
Thank you for your prayers.
God's Positioning System (GPS)
I have been reflecting on the dependence upon GPS systems nowadays. Global Positioning Satellites are installed on blackberries, in automobiles, and via other electronic devices. The Atlas in the car or maps folded up in the glove compartment are bygones of another era. Travelers and newcomers to a region, simply type in the address or destination and the GPS will tell the driver where to turn, how far to go, when to stop, and when to go. While in Washington, DC this year, the GPS quickly redirected us when we become lost in Friday evening rush hour traffic.
In all truthfulness, the GPS is not a new concept. God has given His children the Holy Spirit and His Holy Bible to guide us and direct us through life - the God Positioning Systems (GPS). As with an electronic GPS, God's Positioning Systems can be turned off. Sin can turn off our connection to the Holy Spirit. Not taking enough time to be quiet and listen for the directions of the Holy Spirit causes the GPS to be ineffective. And when we fail to attempt to live obedient lives for Him, He allows the GPS to be blocked - we find ourselves making poor decisions for ourselves, over and over. We make wrong turns and find ourselves on a dead end street, heading no where that we want to go with our lives.
A purchased, electronic GPS will eventually become outdated or quit working. No fear of these concerns with God's Positioning Systems - Psalm 48:14 tells us: "For this is God, our God forever and ever. He will be our guide. Even to death." Compare that guarantee to what the man-made GPS will offer.
Proverbs 3:6 instructs us: "In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths." What better offer than that could we ever receive? We don't require the assistance of electrical devices or human instructions to direct our paths when we have God Almighty guiding our steps. I trust Him so much more to never fail me and to keep me driving down the path of life that he ordained for me.
So think twice if you purchased me a GPS for Christmas. I am going to stick with God's Positioning System for my life - Psalm 119:105: "Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path."
In all truthfulness, the GPS is not a new concept. God has given His children the Holy Spirit and His Holy Bible to guide us and direct us through life - the God Positioning Systems (GPS). As with an electronic GPS, God's Positioning Systems can be turned off. Sin can turn off our connection to the Holy Spirit. Not taking enough time to be quiet and listen for the directions of the Holy Spirit causes the GPS to be ineffective. And when we fail to attempt to live obedient lives for Him, He allows the GPS to be blocked - we find ourselves making poor decisions for ourselves, over and over. We make wrong turns and find ourselves on a dead end street, heading no where that we want to go with our lives.
A purchased, electronic GPS will eventually become outdated or quit working. No fear of these concerns with God's Positioning Systems - Psalm 48:14 tells us: "For this is God, our God forever and ever. He will be our guide. Even to death." Compare that guarantee to what the man-made GPS will offer.
Proverbs 3:6 instructs us: "In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths." What better offer than that could we ever receive? We don't require the assistance of electrical devices or human instructions to direct our paths when we have God Almighty guiding our steps. I trust Him so much more to never fail me and to keep me driving down the path of life that he ordained for me.
So think twice if you purchased me a GPS for Christmas. I am going to stick with God's Positioning System for my life - Psalm 119:105: "Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path."
A Creature of Habit
Today, I am receiving my IVIG treatment that I receive every 28 days to support my immune system. It is an emotional day for me. I spent a decade at the previous cancer center - same chemo chair, same nurses, same routine. Then a couple of years ago, a new cancer center was constructed, affiliated with one of the two local hospitals. So, I made that move to the new center. I was traumatized. My parking spot and chemo chair location of ten years were gone. I had to adjust and adapt to a new cancer environment.
If you know me well, you know that I thrive on an organized, stable, unchanging schedule and routine. This move was upsetting to me, however, I gradually settled in. After experimenting with several different chemo chairs, my compromised immune system decided for me that I would receive the chair in the private room, apart from other patients and germs. Over the past two years, this cubicle has become my home away from home. I have celebrated good reports and victories here and I have wept tears over concerning reports. My same five chemo nurses who have administered almost every drip of chemotherapy and other treatments into my veins remained with me and I readjusted.
Today, another transition looms. I am sad today. This is my last day in this facility. The other local hospital is building a new cancer infusion center and my local oncologist has opted to be affiliated with it. So, once again, I have lived long enough as a cancer patient to be facing yet another move by this practice. The search for another chemo chair will begin. Since I spend so much time here, this becomes a sort of "home away from home" for me. Gone will be my fine window view. And I have learned that two of the five nurses will no longer be performing the infusions for me. That rips and tears at my heart. These women have done so much to help me over the many years - they have sacrificed Christmas, Easter, July 4th and many weekends with their families to come to administer treatments for me. Those type of sacrifices are never forgotten. Also, this cancer facility houses several different oncology-related practices and with it came a chaplain. Sister Betty and I are similar creatures and have shared many prayers and rich conversations over a drip of IV or antibiotics. This morning, we shared our last time of prayer and reflection.
Some believe that change is positive. This morning it doesn't feel very positive to me. My routine will once again be rattled and my second decade of battling leukemia will be rearranged once again. Please pray for my relocation after the first of the year to be replete with peace and without sorrow.
If you know me well, you know that I thrive on an organized, stable, unchanging schedule and routine. This move was upsetting to me, however, I gradually settled in. After experimenting with several different chemo chairs, my compromised immune system decided for me that I would receive the chair in the private room, apart from other patients and germs. Over the past two years, this cubicle has become my home away from home. I have celebrated good reports and victories here and I have wept tears over concerning reports. My same five chemo nurses who have administered almost every drip of chemotherapy and other treatments into my veins remained with me and I readjusted.
Today, another transition looms. I am sad today. This is my last day in this facility. The other local hospital is building a new cancer infusion center and my local oncologist has opted to be affiliated with it. So, once again, I have lived long enough as a cancer patient to be facing yet another move by this practice. The search for another chemo chair will begin. Since I spend so much time here, this becomes a sort of "home away from home" for me. Gone will be my fine window view. And I have learned that two of the five nurses will no longer be performing the infusions for me. That rips and tears at my heart. These women have done so much to help me over the many years - they have sacrificed Christmas, Easter, July 4th and many weekends with their families to come to administer treatments for me. Those type of sacrifices are never forgotten. Also, this cancer facility houses several different oncology-related practices and with it came a chaplain. Sister Betty and I are similar creatures and have shared many prayers and rich conversations over a drip of IV or antibiotics. This morning, we shared our last time of prayer and reflection.
Some believe that change is positive. This morning it doesn't feel very positive to me. My routine will once again be rattled and my second decade of battling leukemia will be rearranged once again. Please pray for my relocation after the first of the year to be replete with peace and without sorrow.
Christmas Reflections
"Christmas, my child, is love in action. Every time we love, every time we give, it's Christmas."
--Dale Evans Rogers
"The only blind person at Christmastime is he who has not Christmas in his heart."
--Helen Keller
"The star of Bethlehem was a star of hope that led the wise men to the fulfillment of their expectations, the success of their expedition. Nothing in this world is more fundamental for success in life than hope, and this star pointed to our only source for true hope: Jesus Christ."
--Dr. D. James Kennedy
--Dale Evans Rogers
"The only blind person at Christmastime is he who has not Christmas in his heart."
--Helen Keller
"The star of Bethlehem was a star of hope that led the wise men to the fulfillment of their expectations, the success of their expedition. Nothing in this world is more fundamental for success in life than hope, and this star pointed to our only source for true hope: Jesus Christ."
--Dr. D. James Kennedy
The Reason for the Season: Luke 2:9-14
And behold,an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid.
Then the angel said to them,
“Do not be afraid, for behold,
I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people.
For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior,
who is Christ the Lord.
And this will be the sign to you:
You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths,
lying in a manger.”
And suddenly there was with the angel
a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying:
“ Glory to God in the highest,
And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”
Then the angel said to them,
“Do not be afraid, for behold,
I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people.
For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior,
who is Christ the Lord.
And this will be the sign to you:
You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths,
lying in a manger.”
And suddenly there was with the angel
a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying:
“ Glory to God in the highest,
And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”
Saturday, December 19, 2009
FOX Fan
Knowing that I am a FOX news viewer and fan, here is our son-in-law pictured in front of the FOX news studios in New York City.
Stranded in the Big Apple?
Our daughter and son-in-law are in New York City this weekend. If you have viewed the weather forecast for the Big Apple, you are aware that a monstrous winter storm is headed their direction - possibly over a foot of snow. Their flight home tomorrow night might be cancelled due to the weather.
They are having a wonderful time sight-seeing and I will post some photos that they have sent me thus far. One especially meaningful one is at St. Patrick's Cathedral where my daughter lit a healing candle in my honor. She said until my candle burns out, someone will be praying for my healing. Thanks, Sis!
We have had some good laughs as they consider being stranded in New York City. In the event stores and restaurants close and they don't have access to food, they are prepared (I guess her Girl Scout training to BE PREPARED is praying off!) They have purchased bottled water, Ramen noodles, granola bars, and the world's largest Reece's Peanut Butter Cup! At least I know they won't starve.
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Lying
With the recent media blitz into the life of Tiger Woods, I am reminded of how damaging lying is in the lives of every person. Advertising sponsors, onlookers, the paparazzi and media are all making Tiger out to be a monster. Yes, he has sinned and horribly harmed his loved ones and my heart breaks for his wife and children. However, Tiger is no different than millions of people who are living lives of deception everyday. The difference being he is under the scrutiny of the world due to his celebrity status.
I am very saddened for his wife and children yet I am reminded that lying is common fodder in this world. Spouses lie to each other. Children lie to parents. Employees lie to employers. I would venture to state that nearly everyone has lied in his or her life. Sometimes lies are labeled “white lies” in an attempt to lessen the seriousness of the transgressions.
However, God takes lying very seriously. Let us take a moment to review what God’s Word has to state about lying and deception. John 8:44 teaches us that the Devil is
“the father of lies”. The next time we are tempted to tell a falsehood or to be dishonest, let us pause to reflecton this truth. The originator and planter of the desire to lie in our minds and hearts is Satan himself. Knowing this, believers, can battle this urge to be deceptive in the spiritual realm through prayer and hurling God’s Words back at the father of deception.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary on the Bible states: “Let us learn the importance of truth and sincerity, in all the affairs of life. Liars and murderers resemble the devil …” Those are powerful words to reflect upon and consider the next time we are tempted to launch into a lie. It is obvious from these comments that no area of our lives is exempt from needing to be saturated in truthfulness. And who wants to resemble the Devil or grouped in the same circuit as murderers?
Ephesians 4:25 reminder is “put away lying”. May we each be encouraged by this admonition to strive for honesty and truthfulness in every area of our lives. Liars never believe that they will be “found out”. Just ask Tiger about that philosophy. He never thought he would be under this public microscope.
I am very saddened for his wife and children yet I am reminded that lying is common fodder in this world. Spouses lie to each other. Children lie to parents. Employees lie to employers. I would venture to state that nearly everyone has lied in his or her life. Sometimes lies are labeled “white lies” in an attempt to lessen the seriousness of the transgressions.
However, God takes lying very seriously. Let us take a moment to review what God’s Word has to state about lying and deception. John 8:44 teaches us that the Devil is
“the father of lies”. The next time we are tempted to tell a falsehood or to be dishonest, let us pause to reflecton this truth. The originator and planter of the desire to lie in our minds and hearts is Satan himself. Knowing this, believers, can battle this urge to be deceptive in the spiritual realm through prayer and hurling God’s Words back at the father of deception.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary on the Bible states: “Let us learn the importance of truth and sincerity, in all the affairs of life. Liars and murderers resemble the devil …” Those are powerful words to reflect upon and consider the next time we are tempted to launch into a lie. It is obvious from these comments that no area of our lives is exempt from needing to be saturated in truthfulness. And who wants to resemble the Devil or grouped in the same circuit as murderers?
Ephesians 4:25 reminder is “put away lying”. May we each be encouraged by this admonition to strive for honesty and truthfulness in every area of our lives. Liars never believe that they will be “found out”. Just ask Tiger about that philosophy. He never thought he would be under this public microscope.
Peace on Earth
Jehovah-Shalom. The Lord Send Peace
by William Cowper
Jesus! whose blood so freely stream'd
To satisfy the law's demand;
By Thee from guilt and wrath redeem'd,
Before the Father's face I stand.
To reconcile offending man,
Make Justice drop her angry rod;
What creature could have form'd the plan,
Or who fulfil it but a God?
No drop remains of all the curse,
For wretches who deserved the whole;
No arrows dipt in wrath to pierce
The guilty, but returning soul.
Peace by such means so dearly bought,
What rebel could have hoped to see?
Peace by his injured Sovereign wrought,
His Sovereign fasten'd to a tree.
Now, Lord, Thy feeble worm prepare!
For strife with earth and hell begins;
Conform and gird me for the war;
They hate the soul that hates his sins.
Let them in horrid league agree!
They may assault, they may distress;
But cannot quench Thy love to me,
Nor rob me of the Lord my peace.
by William Cowper
Jesus! whose blood so freely stream'd
To satisfy the law's demand;
By Thee from guilt and wrath redeem'd,
Before the Father's face I stand.
To reconcile offending man,
Make Justice drop her angry rod;
What creature could have form'd the plan,
Or who fulfil it but a God?
No drop remains of all the curse,
For wretches who deserved the whole;
No arrows dipt in wrath to pierce
The guilty, but returning soul.
Peace by such means so dearly bought,
What rebel could have hoped to see?
Peace by his injured Sovereign wrought,
His Sovereign fasten'd to a tree.
Now, Lord, Thy feeble worm prepare!
For strife with earth and hell begins;
Conform and gird me for the war;
They hate the soul that hates his sins.
Let them in horrid league agree!
They may assault, they may distress;
But cannot quench Thy love to me,
Nor rob me of the Lord my peace.
Request for Prayer & Update: December 17, 2009
I continue to struggle with intense bone pain, infections and chronic neutropenia. In addition, my hemoglobin and iron levels are low, so my energy levels are very low - not a good trait to have during the Christmas season.
I continue with the Neupogen injections, which Kevin is giving to me at home. These help to prevent serious infections while my own body is not doing a very good job fighting infections. We do not yet have final culture reports from the samples obtained from the November 9th sinus scope.
Tomorrow, I am scheduled for a chest x-ray due to a lingering cough to be certain that I do not have Pneumocystis Pneumonia (PCP - a very deadly form of lung infection for the immune compromised patient). Also, I will have MRI's performed on my lower back and hip. Due to the severity of this pain, we need to be certain that the leukemia has not infiltrated into my bones. I have never been able to complete an MRI due to the very enclosed equipment. Please pray that I will be able to complete the MRI's tomorrow as we need this information. If there is not leukemia in the bones, and the pain is from the ongoing herniated discs, I am probably going to have to have steroid injections put into my spine to help me live with this pain.
My monthly IVIG infusion will take place all day Monday. Please pray that I do not have any serious reactions with that and that it helps and not harms me.
My trusted family physician is going home to Iowa for a week beginning this Saturday. Please especially pray that I do not become ill or need hospitalized while she is away.
I continue with the Neupogen injections, which Kevin is giving to me at home. These help to prevent serious infections while my own body is not doing a very good job fighting infections. We do not yet have final culture reports from the samples obtained from the November 9th sinus scope.
Tomorrow, I am scheduled for a chest x-ray due to a lingering cough to be certain that I do not have Pneumocystis Pneumonia (PCP - a very deadly form of lung infection for the immune compromised patient). Also, I will have MRI's performed on my lower back and hip. Due to the severity of this pain, we need to be certain that the leukemia has not infiltrated into my bones. I have never been able to complete an MRI due to the very enclosed equipment. Please pray that I will be able to complete the MRI's tomorrow as we need this information. If there is not leukemia in the bones, and the pain is from the ongoing herniated discs, I am probably going to have to have steroid injections put into my spine to help me live with this pain.
My monthly IVIG infusion will take place all day Monday. Please pray that I do not have any serious reactions with that and that it helps and not harms me.
My trusted family physician is going home to Iowa for a week beginning this Saturday. Please especially pray that I do not become ill or need hospitalized while she is away.
Kolach
Since I was a young girl, a delicious Christmas delicacy that our family knew as "Kolach", has visited our homes and delighted our taste buds. This recipe was handed down from my Aunt Joyce and her family. I believe that her heritage was from Lithuania and this recipe descended from there. When I was younger, I recall that our only loaf of Kolach was the one Aunt Joyce baked and delivered to our family. Then my Mom learned how to bake it and she provided it for my siblings and me. Finally, once our girls began growing up, I learned how to bake it and taught our girls. It is definitely a recipe with a rich heritage.
Christmas would not be the same for our family without this special treat that we share each Christmas morning. To bake the six loaves, takes almost an entire day. Given all of my medical setbacks this past month, I began to ponder and doubt if this would be the Kolach-less Christmas!
Today, Lil Man is spending the day with his Dad, so Grammy was given a vacation day. Just the time I needed to bake this yeast and nut filled delight! I have read other Kolach recipes online but never found one quite like this.
Aunt Joyce's Kolach Recipe
DOUGH:
2 cups warm milk (warm enough to melt butter)
2 cups sugar
1 tsp. salt
2 sticks butter(softened)
2 packages of yeast dissolved in 1/2 cup warm water)
8 cups flour
3 eggs
1 stick of butter for brushing loaves
Pour warmed milk over sugar, salt, and butter and stir until the butter melts.
Add 4 cups of the flour, stir well.
Add dissolved yeast/water mixture and eggs to flour mixture. Stir well.
Add 4 additional cups of the flour - kneading in flour until the dough does not cling to hands.
Brush with melted butter and let rise for 2 hours. Punch down the dough after 2 hours and let rise for another hour. Divide the dough into 6 same sized pieces and let rest and rise for another 1/2 hour to 1 hour.
FILLING:
3 cups finely chopped walnuts
6 1/2 ounces of finely ground cocktail peanuts
2 cups sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp vanilla
1 stick melted butter
Mix all of these filling ingredients together.
Roll one section of dough at a time into a thin, 12" circle. Brush with melted butter. Spread a thin layer of filling on dough, roll up tightly jelly-roll style, tucking ends underneath. Put on greased cookie sheet, seam side down and brush outside with butter. Bake at 325 degrees for 30-35 minutes per loaf. Remove from over and brush with butter. Cool. This freezes well and it tastes best when served warm.
YIELDS: 6 loaves
A Prayer for Today: December 17, 2009
Precious Father,
We humbly bow before You and praise You for Your presence and power in each of our lives. We are in awe of Your goodness and mercy that is extended to each of Your children. We are not deserving of a Savior sent to this earth to save us from ourselves.
This is a beautiful time of year - the celebration of Christ's birth. However, in 2010, I pray that each of us will maintain that very sense of celebration and gratitude for Christ on each and everyday.
Strengthen those of us who are so weak, for the upcoming Christmas celebrations.
Grant times of love and forgiveness, flooding through each family this Christmas. Bring restoration where it is needed.
For those who are undergoing medical treatment away from family or who are serving in the military away from their families, be their Comforter.
For those who are very ill, going in and out of hospitals and traveling for treatment, provide each need and the strength to win the battle.
Isaiah 9:6 reminds us:
For unto us a Child is born,
Unto us a Son is given;
And the government will be upon His shoulder.
And His name will be called
Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
May You continue to be each of these attributes to each of us -
Counselor when we are confused and uncertain as to what medical or other life decisions we must make.
Mighty God when we are downtrodden and overwhelmed by a seemingly impossible situation.
Prince of Peace when the devastations of this world and the deceptions of the enemy try to rob us of our peace and joy.
In Jesus' Name I pray. AMEN.
We humbly bow before You and praise You for Your presence and power in each of our lives. We are in awe of Your goodness and mercy that is extended to each of Your children. We are not deserving of a Savior sent to this earth to save us from ourselves.
This is a beautiful time of year - the celebration of Christ's birth. However, in 2010, I pray that each of us will maintain that very sense of celebration and gratitude for Christ on each and everyday.
Strengthen those of us who are so weak, for the upcoming Christmas celebrations.
Grant times of love and forgiveness, flooding through each family this Christmas. Bring restoration where it is needed.
For those who are undergoing medical treatment away from family or who are serving in the military away from their families, be their Comforter.
For those who are very ill, going in and out of hospitals and traveling for treatment, provide each need and the strength to win the battle.
Isaiah 9:6 reminds us:
For unto us a Child is born,
Unto us a Son is given;
And the government will be upon His shoulder.
And His name will be called
Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
May You continue to be each of these attributes to each of us -
Counselor when we are confused and uncertain as to what medical or other life decisions we must make.
Mighty God when we are downtrodden and overwhelmed by a seemingly impossible situation.
Prince of Peace when the devastations of this world and the deceptions of the enemy try to rob us of our peace and joy.
In Jesus' Name I pray. AMEN.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
15 Months Old Today
Lil Man is growing by leaps and bounds before our eyes. He turns fifteen months old today. I cannot fathom where the time has evaporated. He will always be Grammy's Lil Man, no matter how the months add to his age or the inches add to his stature. The tiny baby who locked eyes with me for the first time fifteen months ago and stole my heart at that very moment, grows nearer and dearer to my heart with each passing moment.
He is a loving, kind little boy. He wraps his tiny arms around my neck and offers the best hugs. His kisses are plentiful and precious. He waves at me with a big grin when he sees me in the mornings and sometimes he sheds a tear when he leaves me in the evening.
We share many hours and special events together. This month we shared in his awe when he walked into Grammy's Christmas Wonderland of decorated trees in nearly every room and a dancing, singing Santa. We played in the snow and made snowballs for the first time. We watched birds flock to the feeders for seed on snowy days. We clap, sing, run, hug, and make wonderful memories together.
Happy Birthday, Lil Man!
XOXO
Grammy
He is a loving, kind little boy. He wraps his tiny arms around my neck and offers the best hugs. His kisses are plentiful and precious. He waves at me with a big grin when he sees me in the mornings and sometimes he sheds a tear when he leaves me in the evening.
We share many hours and special events together. This month we shared in his awe when he walked into Grammy's Christmas Wonderland of decorated trees in nearly every room and a dancing, singing Santa. We played in the snow and made snowballs for the first time. We watched birds flock to the feeders for seed on snowy days. We clap, sing, run, hug, and make wonderful memories together.
Happy Birthday, Lil Man!
XOXO
Grammy
2000 Decembers Ago
Pause for a moment to listen to this song and absorb these lyrics. Imagine being witness to the birth of the Christ Child - born to be the King of kings, Lord of lords.
2000 Decembers Ago
By Joy Williams
Did it feel like a night any different
Then at least a million before
Was there any rare expectation
Like there was some kind of somethin' in store
Did the sky have to hold back the thunder
Did the moon find new reasons to glow
Could the children somehow sense the wonder
2000 Decembers Ago
Were the sheep as amazed as the shepherds
At the new star that lite up the sky
Did the willow trees whisper excitement
To the rivers and streams passing by
Did the joy ricochet off the mountains
'Til it filled up the valleys below
Did all the world sense love abounding
2000 Decembers Ago
Was anyone able to look at the stable
And not see a child but a King
I wish I could hear back over the years
As heaven & nature sing, heaven and nature sing.
Did the walls of the barn start to tremble
With a glory they could not contain
Did anyone wake with the feeling
Of peace that they could not explain
Oh the love must have been overwhelming
As it warmed everyone in its flow
For all of the earth is still telling
Of 2000 Decembers ago
Was anyone able to look at the stable
And not see a child but a king
I wish I could hear back over the years
As heaven and nature sing, heaven and nature sing
Oh the love must have been overwhelming
2000 Decembers Ago
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4W8K3OhxVSw
2000 Decembers Ago
By Joy Williams
Did it feel like a night any different
Then at least a million before
Was there any rare expectation
Like there was some kind of somethin' in store
Did the sky have to hold back the thunder
Did the moon find new reasons to glow
Could the children somehow sense the wonder
2000 Decembers Ago
Were the sheep as amazed as the shepherds
At the new star that lite up the sky
Did the willow trees whisper excitement
To the rivers and streams passing by
Did the joy ricochet off the mountains
'Til it filled up the valleys below
Did all the world sense love abounding
2000 Decembers Ago
Was anyone able to look at the stable
And not see a child but a King
I wish I could hear back over the years
As heaven & nature sing, heaven and nature sing.
Did the walls of the barn start to tremble
With a glory they could not contain
Did anyone wake with the feeling
Of peace that they could not explain
Oh the love must have been overwhelming
As it warmed everyone in its flow
For all of the earth is still telling
Of 2000 Decembers ago
Was anyone able to look at the stable
And not see a child but a king
I wish I could hear back over the years
As heaven and nature sing, heaven and nature sing
Oh the love must have been overwhelming
2000 Decembers Ago
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4W8K3OhxVSw
I Need a Silent Night
Are you feeling a bit rushed and pressured from your Christmas schedule and "to do" list? I can relate. Every year the demands of Christmas activities, shopping, decorating, baking, and wrapping seem more and more overwhelming. My heart longs for the simplistic peace of Christmases of yesteryear. Today, I listened to the Amy Grant song, I Need a Silent Night. The lyrics voiced my feelings about Christmas. All of the activities that barter for our time and attention are not worthy of either.
Christmas - the celebration of the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ - is not about Christmas parties and cookies and presents. God wants us to find that silent night, to sit and read His Word or to have a heart to heart time of prayer with Him. He longs to hear our voices sing out our praises for Him. He longs for us to eliminate stress associated with His Celebration - Christmas. God wants us hear His voice through the chaos of the season, created by man but just easily eradicated by man. It is our choice to decide on what is truly meaningful to the celebration of Christmas and to grasp those traditions and dismiss and disregard all of the others.
LYRICS:
I've made the same mistake before
Too many malls, too many stores
December traffic, Christmas rush
It breaks me till I push and shove
Children are crying while mothers are trying
To photograph Santa and sleigh
The shopping and buying and standing forever in line
What can I say?
I need a silent night, a holy night
To hear an angel voice through the chaos and the noise
I need a midnight clear, a little peace right here
To end this crazy day with a silent night
December comes then disappears
Faster and faster every year
Did my own mother keep this pace
Or was the world a different place?
Where people stayed home wishing for snow
Watching three channels on their TV
Look at us now rushing around
Trying to buy Christmas peace
I need a silent night, a holy night
To hear an angel voice through the chaos and the noise
I need a midnight clear, a little peace right here
To end this crazy day with a silent night
What was it like back there in Bethlehem
With peace on earth, good will toward men?
Every shepherd's out in the field
Keeping watch over their clock by night
And the glory of the Lord shone around them
And they were so afraid
And the angels said fear not for behold
I bring you good news of a great joy that shall be for all people
For unto you is born this day a Savior, who is Christ the Lord
And his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Prince of Peace
I need a silent night, a holy night
To hear an angel voice through the chaos and the noise
I need a midnight clear, a little peace right here
To end this crazy day with a silent night
To end this crazy day with a silent night
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OowjEFrSWfs
Christmas - the celebration of the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ - is not about Christmas parties and cookies and presents. God wants us to find that silent night, to sit and read His Word or to have a heart to heart time of prayer with Him. He longs to hear our voices sing out our praises for Him. He longs for us to eliminate stress associated with His Celebration - Christmas. God wants us hear His voice through the chaos of the season, created by man but just easily eradicated by man. It is our choice to decide on what is truly meaningful to the celebration of Christmas and to grasp those traditions and dismiss and disregard all of the others.
LYRICS:
I've made the same mistake before
Too many malls, too many stores
December traffic, Christmas rush
It breaks me till I push and shove
Children are crying while mothers are trying
To photograph Santa and sleigh
The shopping and buying and standing forever in line
What can I say?
I need a silent night, a holy night
To hear an angel voice through the chaos and the noise
I need a midnight clear, a little peace right here
To end this crazy day with a silent night
December comes then disappears
Faster and faster every year
Did my own mother keep this pace
Or was the world a different place?
Where people stayed home wishing for snow
Watching three channels on their TV
Look at us now rushing around
Trying to buy Christmas peace
I need a silent night, a holy night
To hear an angel voice through the chaos and the noise
I need a midnight clear, a little peace right here
To end this crazy day with a silent night
What was it like back there in Bethlehem
With peace on earth, good will toward men?
Every shepherd's out in the field
Keeping watch over their clock by night
And the glory of the Lord shone around them
And they were so afraid
And the angels said fear not for behold
I bring you good news of a great joy that shall be for all people
For unto you is born this day a Savior, who is Christ the Lord
And his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Prince of Peace
I need a silent night, a holy night
To hear an angel voice through the chaos and the noise
I need a midnight clear, a little peace right here
To end this crazy day with a silent night
To end this crazy day with a silent night
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OowjEFrSWfs
Monday, December 7, 2009
Dancing Through Life's Storms
I read the other day - Life isn't about how you survived the storm ..... it's about how you danced in the rain! Truth abounds in this statement. Life will always be saturated with storms. God's Word (the book of Acts) even tells us this fact - “We must, through many tribulations, enter the kingdom of God.”
All of us will suffer heartache, financial set-backs, illnesses, loss of love ones, or a multitude of life-changing, heart-breaking events. What allows some to walk victoriously through life's storms versus being ultimately defeated and destroyed, is certainly determined by HOW we dance in the rain of those storms.
My adult life has encountered many violent storms. We have nearly lost our daughters to medical happenings. We suffered a great financial loss due to the company going bankrupt for which my husband worked. A blood clot in my lung nearly killed me when I was 27 years old and five years later I learned that I had leukemia. My heart has broken as I've watched loved ones turn their backs on God. It's certainly not been a life paved with ease. Yet, I continue to dance. I continue to praise God in all of my life storms. I continue to have faith and allow God's peace and joy to infiltrate my heart, soul, and body. Thank You, Lord, for not allowing the torrential downpours of my life sweep me away from Your presence. AMEN.
All of us will suffer heartache, financial set-backs, illnesses, loss of love ones, or a multitude of life-changing, heart-breaking events. What allows some to walk victoriously through life's storms versus being ultimately defeated and destroyed, is certainly determined by HOW we dance in the rain of those storms.
My adult life has encountered many violent storms. We have nearly lost our daughters to medical happenings. We suffered a great financial loss due to the company going bankrupt for which my husband worked. A blood clot in my lung nearly killed me when I was 27 years old and five years later I learned that I had leukemia. My heart has broken as I've watched loved ones turn their backs on God. It's certainly not been a life paved with ease. Yet, I continue to dance. I continue to praise God in all of my life storms. I continue to have faith and allow God's peace and joy to infiltrate my heart, soul, and body. Thank You, Lord, for not allowing the torrential downpours of my life sweep me away from Your presence. AMEN.
An Update for Today: December 7, 2009
Thank you for your continued prayers. I am still awaiting the sinus culture results obtained nearly a month ago. Ugh! Fungal cultures take so long to grow out, be identified, and determine which drug is the most effective. I have had a cough and something lurking in my lungs for a couple of weeks now. It has not sounded like pneumonia to my doctor, so we continue to keep a close eye (and ear) on it.
I continue to battle the neutropenia (low neutrophils that fight infection). We are spacing the Neupogen injections to every 3-4 days, trying to get the most "bang for the buck"! Each injection costs over $400. We calculated the other day that our prescription card, through our insurance company, is paying for over $15,000 worth of medications per month for me (not counting our co-pays that we pay). I imagine I am on the insurance company's "we hope this patient dies before she bankrupts us" list.
Pain continues to be a troubling concern. I am battling pain on multiple fronts and without any narcotics pain medications (yet). Only by God's grace and strength can I endure it. There are days when I have to repeat over and over, "God help me. God help me." I know He hears this one-lined prayer breathed by His suffering child. And He does keep me going, somehow, someway.
Most concerning prayer requests that I currently have are: (1) tonight a red lump has arisen on my left eyelid and that is a new problem (infection?); (2) my hemoglobin was down in the 9 range on my last lab report. This makes breathing difficult and causes one to be extremely fatigued since hemoglobin carries the oxygen to the different organs and tissues of the body; (3) my platelets have dropped below the 100 level, so that promptly kicks me back to Stage IV leukemia.
I continue to battle the neutropenia (low neutrophils that fight infection). We are spacing the Neupogen injections to every 3-4 days, trying to get the most "bang for the buck"! Each injection costs over $400. We calculated the other day that our prescription card, through our insurance company, is paying for over $15,000 worth of medications per month for me (not counting our co-pays that we pay). I imagine I am on the insurance company's "we hope this patient dies before she bankrupts us" list.
Pain continues to be a troubling concern. I am battling pain on multiple fronts and without any narcotics pain medications (yet). Only by God's grace and strength can I endure it. There are days when I have to repeat over and over, "God help me. God help me." I know He hears this one-lined prayer breathed by His suffering child. And He does keep me going, somehow, someway.
Most concerning prayer requests that I currently have are: (1) tonight a red lump has arisen on my left eyelid and that is a new problem (infection?); (2) my hemoglobin was down in the 9 range on my last lab report. This makes breathing difficult and causes one to be extremely fatigued since hemoglobin carries the oxygen to the different organs and tissues of the body; (3) my platelets have dropped below the 100 level, so that promptly kicks me back to Stage IV leukemia.
Christmas Traditions
I treasure keeping traditions alive at Christmas. Just ask my family - I receive a great deal of harassment because I do not like to change the way we do things at the holidays. I believe our family traditions are precious gifts that I pass onto my children and grandchild. When I leave this earth, they will know what I did, why I did it, how I celebrated Christmas, what recipes I always cooked, and the events that I orchestrated each year for my family.
I have fallen behind with blogging, given the hecticness of all things Christmas! Last Friday night our middle daughter and son-in-law went to a favorite Christmas event with us. The flu outbreak has lessened a bit, so after discussing it with my doctor, I decided I would venture out (with a mask and gloves). I hadn't been anywhere since October 1 (except for doctors' appointments) so it was a delight!
Each year, a park about a 40 minute drive from us, opens its Pioneer Christmas Village. Anyone who knows me, knows that I have a deep longing to have lived in pioneer days. I am a big fan of Little House on the Prairie, so this annual event combines many of my favorite things - family, log cabins decorated for Christmas, cold weather (and sometimes snow), and reflections of a simpler way of life.
It was 20 degrees by 7 PM last Friday. My hemoglobin is in the 9 range (very low which makes me short of breath and light headed). However, we trudged on - "over the river and through the woods" - to the cabins (well, we didn't cross a river). Candlelight welcomed us into the different cabins where families in period costumes decorated their trees or cooked caramel apples in Dutch Ovens over their fires. Fresh pine boughs decorated candle arrangements. My mind and eyes absorbed the simplistic beauty of it all.
We returned to our covered wagon, oops, I mean to our car and departed the village and returned to the highways. Cold we were - so cold that our daughter's mouth and brain disconnected for a moment and she informed us, "My froes are tozen!" (That would be "toes are frozen"!)
The evening reminded me of my favorite Little House on the Prairie episode, Christmas at Plum Creek.
Gingerbread Memories
Last night our oldest daughter and son-in-law visited. They arrived with supplies for us each to construct a gingerbread house. Our son-in-law, who has a bottomless pit for a stomach, requested homemade caramel corn. After locating my recipe, we began popping corn, making caramel corn, mixing royal icing for the gingerbread houses, and multiple other tasks. The kitchen began to take on the appearance of Mrs. Claus' kitchen (only much messier since I am certain the elves keep her kitchen neat and tidy despite multiple projects underway).A couple of photos of my gingerbread house appear above.
Christ-Mas
I have never been politically correct and never regret it. I am proud to declare MERRY CHRISTMAS to all I encounter. There is no other reason for this season - except for the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. No matter what the government decides or changes in our country, I will always know the One True Reson for Christmas - Christ's arrival on this sinful earth to save each of our souls.Many signs of the season have arrived. Today, I played in the season's first snow with my baby grandson. At fourteen months, it was the first time we made snowballs together and walked in the snow. Heaven on earth could have been no more precious. God's created snowfall blanketing our earth. Tiny hands created by Him, touching the snow, flinching at the cold, and trying to understand where the green grass had disappeared. He smiled at me. I smiled at him. And I know God was smiling down on both of us.
One True God
I base my current life and future life on the One True God. There is no other God besides Him. Scriptures from the Old Testament to the New Testament remind us of this vital truth. It is a truth that is empirical to the foundations of our faith. Deuteronomy 4:39 reminds us: "Acknowledge and take to heart this day that the LORD is God in heaven above and on the earth below. There is no other."
Isaiah 45:5 declares: "I am the LORD, and there is no other; apart from me there is no God."
God is a jealous God. He is jealous for our souls and for our lives - He does not want to share our lives, our hearts, our passions with anything or anyone. Exodus 20:5 states, "I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God." Pretty straight-forward declaration, isn't it? 2 Corinthians 11:2 instructs, "I am jealous for you with a godly jealousy."
The Mark Harris song, One True God, reminds of us the sole deity Whom we are to worship and serve. These lyrics remind us of the magnitude of God's power, creation, love, and forgiveness. All other deities pale in comparison. Listen to this song and its vivid reminders to each of us - the children God loves so dearly.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NXxHjsmmjdw
Isaiah 45:5 declares: "I am the LORD, and there is no other; apart from me there is no God."
God is a jealous God. He is jealous for our souls and for our lives - He does not want to share our lives, our hearts, our passions with anything or anyone. Exodus 20:5 states, "I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God." Pretty straight-forward declaration, isn't it? 2 Corinthians 11:2 instructs, "I am jealous for you with a godly jealousy."
The Mark Harris song, One True God, reminds of us the sole deity Whom we are to worship and serve. These lyrics remind us of the magnitude of God's power, creation, love, and forgiveness. All other deities pale in comparison. Listen to this song and its vivid reminders to each of us - the children God loves so dearly.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NXxHjsmmjdw
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