The Mills Family

Double Thankful Tuesday!

2012-01-31T14:41:00.000-08:00

We recieved the phone call we've been waiting for!

Mr. Clark is NOW

*LISTED*

at BAYLOR MEDICAL

in Dallas Texas.

As well as

Kansas University Med

In Kansas City, Kansas

The ODDS are Improving!

SO THANKFUL!

Thankful Tuesday: In Sickness and in Health

2012-01-31T14:26:00.000-08:00

A few day's a week, my day's consist of sitting in the dining room of a retirement center watching a student in a Vocational Job Experience.
You can't help but get a little involved with the Elderly.
One of my biggest fears is loosing my mind/memory.
It's hereditary!
Watching people endure day to day makes my heart break.
The first day there I held a lady's bib while she lost her lunch. (I am fortunate that it doesn't bother me)
The Lady thanked me and now we are special friends!
On the second day, I heard a lady sobbing because they left her puppy at the table. (her imaginary puppy)
On the third day, I witnessed a Husband and his Son comforting their wife/mother. The Son had his arm around in mother.
At that moment I wanted to weep. I held back from loosing it!
Tyrel and Elyse have been duking it out over who gets to take care of me when I have full blown Alzheimer's. Terrence would put up a fight too! But the other two have been kidding about it lately! I have great children! : )
I immediately got on my phone and wrote, "I just had a fast forward moment, I don't want to get old"
Tyrel text me, "Don't worry Mom, you won't remember anything!"
Elyse text me, Mom, don't worry you are staying with me and eating Coke and Cheetos" she thinks that's what all really old people like!
We've had this conversation before. I've tried to convince them to put me in a retirement center so that I won't be a burden or say mean things. : (
Seeing it day in and day out is difficult imagining myself doing.
It's a hard place to be.
At this stage in life you have to wonder, "what is God's purpose for the aged"
It almost felt like this is a waiting room for God to call our name.
I watched this message today. It says it all. *a note to my children WATCH THIS!
"In Sickness and in Health"

I guess it is part of life.
I hope I have this attitude and faith!
THANKFUL to take the trials of today in sickness and in health. Tomorrow will come soon enough!

ISAIAH

2012-01-30T18:14:00.000-08:00

Found this website. Although it say's it's for teenagers, Its great for me to understand! I'm linking it up so that I can continue to follow it...scriptorium-blogorium HERE:

Thankful Thursday: True Bliss?

2012-01-26T13:22:00.001-08:00

YES! We have reached the point of TRUE BLISS!!!!!!!

In all 31 1/2 years of marriage Mr. Clark has only done the dishes a handful of times.

With Mr. Clark's restless legs he has to STAND.

So standing and doing dishes keeps his mind distracted from thinking about his legs.

Lately, he has dish pan hands.

I LOVE IT!

So tonight I made the comment at dinner that I was ready for the weekend. All my work was done

except:

'the dishes on the counter!'

He said, " Let's get 'em done"

"Let's" I questioned????

with out hesitation I hurried and said,

"OH YES, LETS!"

'...the rustle of an apron...the touch of rubber gloves and I feel the unbridled passion stirring inside me...' HEE-HEE!!!!!!!

Oh the little things that are the BIG things!

I've waited all my life to do the dishes together!

Oh life is TRUE BLISS!

For this I am THANKFUL!

Thankful, Thankful, Thankful, Thankful, Thankful, Thankful, Thankful, Thankful, Thankful, Thankful
Thankful, Thankful, Thankful, Thankful, Thankful, Thankful, Thankful, Thankful, Thankful, Thankful

Thankful Tuesday: Our Competition

2012-01-24T16:20:00.000-08:00

HOORAY!

Mr. Clark has had Physical Therapy for 3 weeks now.

His progress has been

AMAZING!

He went from 'whimpey'
to

BALANCED AND STRONGER.

We just can't believe what it has done for him.

Now,
He decided to push his P.T at home on our treadmill

We had to invent a *key (magnet) before we could use our tread mill. Hee-hee!

He started at 3 min. a day.
(just the best he could do)
Now he's up to
40 minutes.

Oh, and I have to match him in minutes.
I kinda snickered at first.
(I've hit the gym for hours at a time, never could get him to join me)
but he is being persistent and walking more than me.
Guess I'll be stepping it up!
(literally) :)
I don't like competing but if this means
more stability for Mr. C

I'm all for it.

It's PROGRESS

For this we are THANKFUL!

A message to my friend!

2012-01-21T05:15:00.000-08:00

Dear Sandy O,

My computer is being

dumb.

I can't post a comment on your latest post :(

PLEASE GET WELL SOON!

BLESS YOU GIRL!

The Beach?

2012-01-21T04:59:00.000-08:00

The is the Lake where we live.

It's the closest thing to the beach we have!

Thankful just to take a walk along the shore!
Our only reprieve lately!

If we had a million dollars?

2012-01-21T04:51:00.000-08:00

If we had a million dollars...
We would fly home to be with family.
We are going to miss an important family event this weekend.
Tears
I'm not sure Mr. C's health could take a quick trip home anyway.
So this comforts me that a million dollars probably wouldn't make any difference!

It feels better to whine a bit :)

For what we have... especially for love of family
We are THANKFUL!

Thankful Thursday: 3 good day's in a row!

2012-01-19T14:08:00.000-08:00

We are

CELEBRATING

THREE

GREAT DAYS

in a row!

After the last difficult few weeks

OHhhhhhhhhhh...

This feels SOooooooooooooooo

GOOD!

For this we are THANKFUL!

Mr. Clark has some upcoming changes that will be a MAJOR challenge physically and emotionally to get completely ready for

TRANSPLANT.

a clue: His teeth.

We HOPE and Pray he won't have any complications.

No more grumpy looks?
We will be
looking forward to a huge SMILE!

We'll keep you updated.

Thankful Tuesday: A Lil' old Lady and and Lil' old Man!

2012-01-17T19:24:00.000-08:00

And on to a NEW WEEK
Things are somewhat better!
Still battling a new infection.

Monday we spent the day off as usual in Doctor Appointments. Thankful for business's that are open on a Holiday! Our day was spent first off in Physical Therapy.

No sleeping in!

This is paying off! Mr. Clark is feeling a lot stronger!

and...

We are challenging each other on the tread mill!

Double BONUS!

Then we met with nurse 'Barb'

Mr. C and Nurse 'Barb' (notice the bribe of protien bars!)

I love the little pat on the back she gives me.

She makes me feel confident as a caretaker.

For the next month:

A new series of IV IRON twice a week.

And our Nephrologist

Dr. J

who is GREAT.

Except for the fact that his latest remedy is

Keeping Mr. C grounded

Yes, Beware: T.M.I

(Lactolose is NOT his friend right now!)
14lbs weight loss in a matter of 4 hrs. means
Something wasn't right!

This is the life of a PD (peritoneal dialysis) patient

AND THEN:

On the way out...

We met a lil' Ol' Lady and a Lil Ol' Man

coming into the dialysis center.

Mr. Clark teased the Lil' Ol' Lady for stealing a wheel chair from the facility.

She carefully wheeled it out to get her husband.

She put on the breaks and was struggling to get the foot rests down.

I asked her if she needed help.

And in the STRONG, CONFIDENT voice she said,

"oh no, we are fine, but thank you for asking"

Ask me why this makes me cry?

I immediately seen a 'fast forward' moment.

For one thing, this is EXACTLY what I would say.

(The independent me)

For the second thing.

I had to reflect on her strength.

(at her age)

I know in my heart what their daily routine is.
It takes an enormous amount of energy.

Tears and more tears.

And then...

I had to feel THANKFUL

We are YOUNG and have the strength and confidence

to get through this.

Lately our mental strength has been challenged.

I'm definitely not always the STRONG person that I appear.

It's amazing that when I am down Mr. Clark builds me up and I for him.

*It's amazing how spiritual strength and physical strength go hand in hand.

TODAY,

THANKFUL

for meeting the Lil' Ol' Lady and the Lil' Ol' Man yesterday.

We can keep going on with COURAGE
BECAUSE WE ARE ALL STRONG ENOUGH!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SON!

2012-01-17T04:42:00.001-08:00

WE LOVE YOU MORE THAN YOU CAN KNOW!

THE BALANCING ACT!

2012-01-10T19:22:00.000-08:00

Not everything is as it seems. I try to be courageous and brave but these are the truths of our low of lows. I am NOT always an optimist! Although we pick ourselves up and move on to a better attitude-- its moment to moment!

1- Nights, terrify me. Why is it when it gets dark things are difficult? Mr. Clark THRASHES with restless leg/neuoprathy. Laying down is difficult for him. I'm convinced no med helps him. It just makes him delirious/ numb in his mind but very conscious of his pain! The meds either give him nightmares/hallucinations or cause sleep walking. Two nights ago, he didn't realize he unhooked his dialysis machine. at 2:00 am we started the whole set up over. One hour later I woke up with the realization he was attempting to do it again. After getting him back in bed, I crashed. Only to a loud thud a few minutes later. Mr. Clark had got up and somehow lost his balance and fell into our clothes closet.  This is why I dislike nights! This night was a mild night. (After this experience he's decided not to take those meds anymore. ) If I went into detail about others Mr. Clark would be sad I shared them. The result of this night- Once again peritonitis and we start the routine of antibiotics in his solution that must be a mid day exchange. This means dialysis day and night.
While this post is already L-O-N-G...
This is one of our l-o-n-g nights for the journal,
In one of Mr. C's thrashing moments he stretch his line too far, popping off the metal screw that is his connection to his insides(yes his gut). Without this screw his hose would run back into his body only to be retrieved in surgery. Needless to say we panicked! His dialysis solution (inside his gut) was spraying everywhere. Clark grabbed his 3 inch line and held it. I found an old clamp from from a solution line on got it on the hose. Then we called for help. Nurse Barb answered the emergency line. You can imagine the relief we had. Calmly she told me how to unscrew the old connection, sterilize it and try to stretch the 1/8" line over the connection and screw it back together. It was intense, but I did it. She then told me to get pliers and tighten it. It worked. We had to get on emergency antibiotics through the solution immediately. My favorite part of this adventure is that when we went into the dialysis center to have them do it right??? The nurse was amazed. She didn't have to do anything. I had done everything right and secure. A little more confidence boost. We survived yet another crisis!
2- Just trying to keep all of his stats in line is a total guessing game. If his blood pressure is high, we do a higher solution of dialysis. If he is retaining water or if he has weight gain we use a higher solution. If we use a higher solution it messes with his blood sugar giving him sugar highs. If his blood sugar gets too high then his dialysis isn't effective. Using a higher solution because of High Blood pressure sometimes bringing it too low. If you know anything about too low bp. There is not much you can do. Oh wait, you can add salt to his diet which will add water, which will up his weight. Which induces high blood pressure etc and the vicious cycle starts all over again! In this case, he can't be left alone and its important to watch him to make sure he doesn't pass out. We have gotten courage from Mr. Clark's team of Doctors. They support us and are reassuring that we are doing everything we can and doing it the very best we can. It is still scary!
3- Food is our enemy/life saver!!!!!!!! It's like balancing the dialysis fluid. It's all about BALANCE. And it is another battle we fight. What to eat and what not to eat. Strict, no phosphorus but push the protein-Grrrrrrr
4- Balance? Oh Yes, randomly falling. I will look behind me only to see him --S-P-L-A-T on the ground and then I wonder how I'm going to pick him up.  Or teetering through the grocery store and people staring at us like I'm helping a drunkard!
5- Keeping Mr. Clark's spirits up. This is his Gethsemane. I don't know how I would endure it if I were in the same position. I try to put myself in his shoes and then... I really admire his attitude and optimism!
6- Always feeling that something could happen at any given moment is exhausting. It is a 24 hr. feeling. It is our battle. I know that our time together may be brief. So it is a constant time of keeping courage. But honestly we both have our moments of melt downs.
7- Knowing when and when not to go to the hospital. We don't take chances any more. It's gotten so routine that we don't often tell anyone we've been there! This is our life now.
8- When others avoid you because "we always have issues" Or they ask you but their expression states they don't really want to hear your answer.  Its just easier to not get involved. You see who is truly charitable/compassionate and yes, who are your true friends. This sounds harsh. I'm the same way. The best I can do is focus on our own circumstances, so I understand. So it's all a BALANCE

On a positive note: I have gained confidence that I CAN do anything that is required.
Yet again, It's all about BALANCE~

Update: It's all about Our QUALITY of LIFE

2012-01-07T06:23:00.000-08:00

Dallas, Texas

Here is the latest update:
      Our trip to Baylor University Medical in Dallas Texas for an evaluation was a little disheartening. We obtained loads and loads of information about the good and *bad of a pancreas/kidney transplant.
      THE BAD NEWS: We do not qualify for a pancreas at Baylor.
For a pancreas:
1- You must be under the age of 50 --- (ahhh.... too bad we can't turn back the age clock).
The reason? It's all about how an older body (and a body already very sick) can handle the surgery.   A pancreas is very fragile to transport and implant. The risks of the surgery ( for a person over 50) outweigh the benefit.
:(
2- You MUST be under *weight because the anti-rejection meds add weight of 50 to 100 lbs.
(we already new this, but the criteria for pancreas- weight etc. is even more strict than a kidney)
      We still qualify for a Kidney at Baylor -- (if he stays in the weight range) This also includes being listed at Baylor in Dallas and Baylor in Fort Worth with is 2 different donor pools. So we have the possibility of listing in 3 places.
     The GOOD NEWS: We are listed at Kansas University Med for a Kidney and we have started the monthly blood work that is required to stay listed.
      So we are changing up our attitude about a pancreas. In a perfect situation, our dream would be not to have diabetes anymore. BUT... We can gear up for a kidney only and improve Mr. Clark's QUALITY of LIFE!
       For this we are THANKFUL
For the miracle that our Son, Tyrel and his wife could be with us during this emotional roller coaster. Thank you to the *Fox family for their Christmas Surprise! MAKES US EVEN MORE THANKFUL!

Our way of Travel!
(we thought it was a little funny that he rode in the back and I rode in the front~ typical 'old' people!)
Dallas Cowboy Dome in the Background!
We had a 'designated driver', Our son Tyrel!

Our Blessing of the trip!
Tyrel and Danielle
Standing in front of the Rangers Stadium.

At the Oklahoma Memorial.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

2011-12-24T20:35:00.000-08:00

May you all be blessed to have a wonderful Christmas surrounded by those you love.
The Best gift of Christmas, HERE:
With Love, The Mills Family

WOW, We are making Progress!

2011-12-22T09:27:00.000-08:00

We have made it '1' year on the KANSAS UNIVERSITY MEDICAL TRANSPLANT LIST for a Kidney. **update as of 12/27/2011
Because of Mr. Clark's delay with his colon surgery they let us know it was suspended so we are starting fresh. :( But still making progress...

Every year we renew our request so we will be going to Kansas City on the 27th of December.

Now if you are wondering??? YES we are trying to get on the list also for BAYLOR UNIVERSITY MEDICAL TRANSPLANT LIST for a KIDNEY/PANCREAS. We will be going to Dallas, Tx on Jan 2 through the 5th. for his evaluation. *Clark is really wanting both a kidney and pancreas. Diabetes is no picnic! We can only list for both at Baylor because it has the highest success rate in the nation. This is the only place our insurance will pay for both, so we are HAPPY to go to Dallas also.

We are fortunate to list for both places. We are hoping this is the YEAR our quality of life improves!

ANTICIPATION!

Rings True for Us All

2011-12-21T12:41:00.001-08:00

How this Christmas could change your life! Great Message/Read HERE:

Who are the WISE MEN????

2011-12-17T18:11:00.000-08:00

WATCH THIS! * Suprising Modern Day Wise Men HERE: " When we find him, will we be prepared as the wise men of old to provide gifts from our many treasures?" Thomas S. Monson
THIS IS BEAUTIFUL! ENJOY

Shepherds

2011-12-17T04:40:00.000-08:00

Check out this beautiful video: Shepherds learn of his birth.

Christmas Traditions - Despite Distractions.

2011-12-15T15:36:00.000-08:00

Christmas is what we make of it. Despite all the distractions, we can see to it that Christ is at the center of our celebration. If we have not already done so, we can establish Christmas traditions for ourselves and for our families which will help us capture and keep the spirit of Christ." -- President Thomas S. Monson
WE have had serious distractions in our lives in this season. Tragedy that may discourage us from celebrating the season.
So THANKFUL for TRADITIONS when distractions come our way, why? It is memories we establish with the ones we love that get us through the difficult times. Celebrating the birth of the Savior and the REASON for the SEASON.
May we all establish traditions to REMEMBER.
MERRY CHRISTMAS!

'All will be well... in the long term'

2011-12-08T16:12:00.000-08:00

Its hard to mention this weeks events. It has been a difficult one. I want to remember what a difference people make in my life. How fortunate we are to be where we are at this time in our life. For each life that has touched us for good.

Our dear Sister in Our lil' Branch
passed away this week.

It wasn't very good circumstances.

I have never thought in my life time some one close to us would pass away in this manner.

By the hands of her own. Someone she tried to help, prayed for and loved.

Our hearts has been heavily burdened all week.

Personally, I had a whisper, a calm peaceful feeling among the tragedy that 'all is well'

and her message to me was a loving message, "there is work enough for me 'ere the sun goes down'

So thankful for this.
TO LOYCE:

She was a 2 time cancer survivor, just recovered from thyroid surgery. Her battle was yet to be fought.

To a special friend that gathered all the intelligence she could muster and sharing that knowledge with so many young people.
(the BEST primary teacher in the world, )

To her smile and joyful spirit,

To her love for her family.

Her dedication to her Grandchildren.

Her love for the Temple.

Her love for the way she was raised.

Her wonderful heritage.

Her devotion to education,

to the handicapped.

Her service to others.

For the blessing of knowing her.

I AM THANKFUL

A comforting message here: yes, all will be well in the long term

Do you have room for the Savior?

2011-12-03T19:50:00.000-08:00

"Each of us as the Innkeeper, decides if there is room." Watch this: Do you have room?

It's about Change and Being Grateful!

2011-12-03T08:35:00.000-08:00

"Finding Joy in the Journey" Exceptional Read! Enjoy!

Thankful Thursday: Good Day's

2011-12-01T15:24:00.000-08:00

Today we heard these words, " OH, I FEEL SO GOOD!" If you've been around Mr. Clark, or me for that matter in the last few months. THESE WORDS ARE SO ENCOURAGING! Nothing passed a few modern MIRACLES!!!
We have tried numerous prescriptions to help Mr. Clark's neuropathy(restless leg) It makes us feel like weeping and wailing and nashing our teeth!) and believe me nights have seemed like this!
Nothing has been effective. After so many (years) of sleepless nights and the feeling of desperation the Doctor finally prescribed LYRICA, (update: 1/2012-I'm changing my attituded about this med.. (DANGEROUS SIDE AFFECTS)although its the only thing that gives him relief the night mares/halucinations are NOT worth it. )wholey cow. What a difference (knock on wood) Today we can confidently say:

For this we are THANKFUL!!!!!!!!!
GREAT NEWS UPCOMING
Tune in for Dec. 5th, we hope to share some good news about Mr. C's EYES! XO
and Baylor Medical Transplant Team Evaluation in Dallas Texas is finally (once again) attentively planned (it was delayed because of his colon surgery back in Aug) for Jan. 3-4th
WE ARE ON THE ROAD TO 'HOPE' !!!!!!!!

Thankful Season Day #30

2011-11-30T18:28:00.000-08:00

Thankful season ends with this:

Because I have been given much---

and This:

Counting my Blessings...

Thankful Season Day #29

2011-11-29T04:24:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, we had a 'NORMAL' day. Mr. Clark worked a 10 hour day. What was great was---

sh-sh-sh (this is a selfish comment) I had 2 1/2 hours yesterday of 'me' time. Mr. Clark is so LOVED but this was a good feeling. I put on Christmas Music and sighed and HUGE s-i-g-h...

A little 'normal' feeling. We both cling to this routine. We appreciate being able to WORK. We have seen things change in an instant. FOR A LIL' NORMAL WE ARE THANKFUL!!!!!!!!!!

Tearful Story

2011-11-29T04:09:00.000-08:00

Remember I shared that our communtiy where we lived for 25 yrs was mourning a loss. Check out her four girls surprise HERE: Get a box of Kleenex's!

Thankful Season Day #28

2011-11-28T16:57:00.000-08:00

Thankful for

FAITH.

Faith is knowing the sun will shine,

Lighting each new day.

Faith is know a seed will grow when planted.

Faith is knowing God will hear my prayers each time I pray.

Faith is knowing ...

We'll be with our loved ones in Heaven again.

It will be a HAPPY DAY!

For this

I am

THANKFUL

Thankful Season Day #27

2011-11-27T05:43:00.000-08:00

Mr. Clark and I were talking about never taking for granted our Thanksgiving Traditions of being with Family again.

We missed yet another year of Tradition.
We are so THANKFUL
for those TRADITIONS of the past.
Cherished Memories
In our hearts,

TRADITION IS SO IMPORTANT!
THANKSGIVING IS ABOUT THE LOVE OF FAMILY and CELEBRATING our RICH ABUNDANCE OF BLESSINGS.

For ALL our families and extended families

YOU ARE LOVED!

For BLESSINGS SOMETIMES UNRECOGNIZED

WE WILL LIVE IN THANKSGIVING DAILY HERE:

ENJOY with MUCH LOVE!

Thankful Season Day #26

2011-11-26T04:16:00.000-08:00

100 % for the Savior

In one of our church leadership training meetings we received a tab "100%" to connect to our key chain.

So my first reaction was. I LOVE IT!

Then I started thinking am I "100%"

Am I 100% in my prayers?

Am I 100% Keeping the Commandments?

Am I 100 % Tithe Payer?

Am I 100% in the Service of Others?

Am I 100% reading the Scriptures?

Am I 100% a disciple of Christ?

Most of my percentages did not equal 100%. Yes, I was beating myself up pretty good.

My conversation with Mr. Clark was, "I am coming up short"

His comment to me was, "that is where Grace and the Atonement comes in"

He makes up the difference.

Oh, I knew this, just needed reminding, and yes it is comforting.

But I believe I can't just do what I want and Christ will cover my back in all things.

I need to do my best.

If not, to me that sounds like a spoiled child that is enabled to continue bad behavior knowing someone will always cover for him.

It teaches a child to be selfish, to learn to takes things for granted.

Children that love their parents strive to be like them.

I love the 13th Article of Faith

a principle of the "The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints"

It helps me make a huge effort to strive to be like Christ.

We believe in being honest, true, chaste, benevolent, virtuous, and in doing good to all men; indeed, we may say that we follow the admonition of Paul -- We believe all things, we hope all things, we have endured many things, and hope to endure all things. It there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy, we seek after these things.

To see all 13 principles that show what I believe in go HERE:

I can try, continually TRY and make my best EFFORT

to shoot for 100% for the Savior

this is when I can be content to let him make up the difference.

I'm THANKFUL for the Grace and Atonement he offers me personally.

Thankful Season Day #25

2011-11-25T09:02:00.000-08:00

Humbly Thankful

for the

GIFT OF LIFE

Reflections on the past 3-4 years take us in a direction that make us realize that we are taking each day as a GIFT.

In a time when technology is so advanced when is comes to keeping a human alive.

We know and are appreciative of the fact that life could not continue with out this advanced technology.

Thankful Season Gratitude Challenge

2011-11-25T06:24:00.001-08:00

     :
Let's not talk about counting our blessings-- let's do it! Write a list of 100 things you are Thankful for. It sounds like it is too many. Try this:

Write 10 physical abilities you are Grateful for:

10- Ability to walk, and walk fast! My ultimate fav. thing to do.
9-   I have strength. I've seen how loosing muscle affects you.
8-   Exercise: *When* I do it I love it!
7-   I love used to like to participate in sports (although I do 'not' like competition) I loved watching my boys play Football * among my FAV.
6-   I participated in 'a' 5K and FINISHED!
5-   I am very good at water skiing
4-   I love, love to swim
3-   I love to hike in the mountains
2-    I can push my physical limitations... when I work out. So why don't I do it more often??? ... I really need become more diligent to shed some necessary #'s
1-   I can do what I put my mind to. I think we all have more physical abilities than we realize.  I would love to get the *ambition/motivation to put my own abilities to the test!

Write 10 material possessions you are grateful for:

I am NOT a material girl, or high maintenance. Nails and pedicures (not for me) I am a simple person (a plain Jane)
BUT:
10- I love our truck (although I dislike putting gas in it!)
09- I love our small boat
08- Blessed to have a small but beautiful home.
07- My material dream: One of those retired old couple that have a huge motor home and trail a little suv behind and travel the world! On Our bucket list includes following the coast of Maine etc.
06-  The generator! (keeps us continue with the comforts of life when the power is out)
05-  I love, love Chrystal and anything that reminds me of my Grandmothers kitchen treasures
04- I love flowers on the table for each month! (Not that it happens every month but that is one material thing I enjoy)
03- I love to shop but I am NOT a big spender.
02- I love dresses
01- I love decorative pictures/ decorations

Write 10 deceased people you are grateful for:

10- My cousin Julie. I think that she is my guardian angel. She died young. Talking to other cousins they feel the same way.
09- My Grandpa Pike: He reminds me of a great prophet. Such an inspiring and spiritual person
08- My Grandma Pike: I can still remember watching her put up her hair with little metal clamps. She had a ceramic shop in her basement and I LOVED being around her. She loved quilting and she was an great candy maker. She was a talented lady. I miss her.
07- My Grandma Baker: She was a true lady with incredible talents. I wish I could have picked up tatting from her. She tried and tried to teach me.
06- My Grandpa Baker: I never knew him but I like to think that he was there to greet me when I had my near death experience. I feel he has always been my protector, looking out for me from heaven.
05- Relatives I discovered while living in Kansas, buried near where I live. I love to take a drive where they lived and imagine what their life must have been like.
04- My friend : She is my lifetime (I hope to be like her someday) Angel.
03- Kaye , wonderful lady. Wonderful memories. A great example to me. She made me feel like I was her own child. A second Mom
02- My Mother in Law DeAnn, who served us as family in so many ways. Her example of a wonderful mother and grandmother. She was an example of Christ like service and love and she is sorely MISSED
02- My own Mother. She was an AMAZING, AMAZING women. I don't know how she accomplished the things she did in her life time. She was an AMAZING disciple of Christ. She was about servicing and loving others non-stop. She is my HERO
01- My Daddy, a true Christian who dedicated his entire life to serving in the church. He was an amazing gardener. Financial wiz! I absolutely KNEW he loved me.
PRIORITY #1 - Jesus Christ, who died for me personally, who lived a perfect example of love and selfless service to us all. Who suffered in the Garden of Gethsemne for each one of our sins, he hung and died on the cross for us, YET ON THE THIRD DAY, HE WAS RISEN, SO HE LIVES!!!!!!!!!!!

Write 10 living people who you are grateful for

10- WOW, I can not limit it to 10. The numbers are too vast.So I will go with my- My Blogging, and face book family. You all keep my uplifted.

09- My friend Dawn, I have learned as much from her as any other incluence I could have. I was blessed to see her in action. I have known her lifes challenges. SHE INSPIRES ME. If I am someday alone without a companion. I will remember her example. A quiet serving SAINT, A person of INTEGRITY, OF SERVICE, HARD, HARD WORKER, OF FAITH, OF SACRIFICE, OF A TRUE DISCIPLE OF CHRIST.

08-Aunt Jeanne and My Uncle Jim, They have kept in touch with me and look out for our family since the passing of my parents.
07- Aunt Lou, We bonded when she took care of my mother during her battle with cancer. I will always treasure her service to our family at this time. All my Aunts are AMAZING people. They are such a treasure to me.

06- Clark's Aunts and Uncles. They also took us in as their own, I had a incredible life around them. They are GREAT, GREAT People and I am so fortunate to have been a part of their lives. They lives of service to Clark and I is insurmountable. Wow, Uncle Bob, Aunt Lorraine and Uncle Dan and Aunt Sherron are our HERO'S, along with second parents.

05- All of my dear, dear friends. Among them, My dear friend Nita, has been my HERO. She has never left my side! We are as close now being zillion miles away, as we were when we were close by each other. She inspires me in everything. She is a PERFECT example of a GIVING, CARING, PERSON. There is no one I know that is more charitable. I am SO, So fortunate that she calls me her friend.

04- The miracle of being blessed with GREAT PEOPLE that Mr. Clark works for/with. ALL OF THEM! They are truely GOD SEND. We know where we'd be without them. They are appreciated beyond measure.

03 - A prophet living on Earth today. Thomas S. Monson. I know that I am fortunate to have this knowledge. I think of the people back in time in the scriptures etc. that didn't recognize a living prophet or Christ on the Earth. How blessed I am to have always been able to follow a prophet all my life who is a spoke person for God and Jesus Christ

02- Nieces and Nephews that I LOVE AND ADORE!

02- Cousins that have become my Best Friends

02- My Sisters in Law- Kathy, Teresa, Pam, Connie and Lola. So lucky to have had a life with them in it. I am BLESSED to have FOREVER SISTERS!

02- My Brothers.They are my amazing advocates and I am so BLESSED

02-Clark's Dad, Grumpa Mac. Although we battle NON-STOP, I know he loves me too! He has been our only living parent and he is continually there for us. He is a giving, serving person also.

02- Our kids, I feel bad that they will have to take care of me when I am old! I love that they fight over who gets to keep me! I am so blessed to have been their mother. They all have had moments when they have made me incredibly PROUD!

02- Our Grandchildren. Oh they are PRECIOUS. How did we ever, EVER get so blessed to have such angel spirits to be a part of our lives.
01- My Husband. I could go on for HOURS, DAY'S YEARS! He has some great, great attributes and I have been forever GRATEFUL that I have spent my life with him. He has taught me through his example to love everyone. The MOST, most special quality that he possesses is the ability to forgive and forget. His health is his Gethsemane and he is VALIANT in his battle. He has such a HIGH ENDURANCE in his system. He is the BEST listener, among so many things, but most of all, He makes me feel like there is not a person in the world he could love more, ALWAYS and for this I AM GRATEFUL

Write 10 things about nature you are grateful for:

This is EASY!
10 - The color GREEN (not my favorite color but my FAVORITE color of Nature)
09- All the Seasons
08- The Mountains
07 - Trees, especially Pine and Aspens Quakies
06- Lakes, Streams
05- Animals
04- Oceans, Oceans, Oceans
03- Meadow
02- Birds
01- This amazing UNIVERSE

Write 10 things today you are grateful for:

10- Mornings and sunrises (nights are nightmares anymore)
09- A Job that I love
08- Warmth on cold Days
07- Cold for hot flashes!
06- Transportation
05- Wonderful people in our lives
04- Friday's
03- Garbage Day! I get empowered to clean out the fridge!
02- Phones calls
01- Baking

Write 10 places on earth you are grateful for:

10- From Coast to Coast (the OCEAN BLUE)
09- UTAH ( it's is where our Family is )
08- Louisiana ( I loved, loved the diversity of plants animals and birds and the People and the CULTURE)
TWO years living there, we had the time of our lives
07- Kansas, I love, love the rolling hills and GREEN pastures, I love being in the Bible Belt of the U.S.A and seeing other religious beliefs and Devotion to God. It has strenghtened my own.
06- Having been in Most of the United States
05- America History/Church History Sites ( I love going back in time)
04- New England , Alaska
03- Holland, England, Den Mark, Paris, Australia -
02- Washington State, I really want to live there some day
01- The whole beautiful world

Write 20 modern inventions you are grateful for:

10- Air Conditioning
09- Gas Fireplace
08- Toilets/Toilet Paper and Sanitary stuff
07- Heat/Electricity
06- computers
05- Airplanes
04- Cars
03- Modern Technology
02- Modern Medicine
01- Cell Phones

Write 10 foods you are grateful for:

10- Fruits and Vegetables
09- Marshmallows
08- Prime Rib
07- All Sea Food
06- Ice Cream
05- Mexican/Green Chili Relano
04- Chinese/Egg foo Young ( only at Beijing)
03- Italian
02- Cookies
01- What is there not to love???

Write 10 things about the gospel you are grateful for:

10- Scriptures
09- Temples
08- Unanswered/ Answered Prayers
07- Personal and Modern Revelation (knowledge that God is mindful of each one of us personally TODAY and I am his child)
06- Knowledge that I lived in Heaven before I came to earth and that I chose the great plan of happiness
05- Eternal Salvation: Knowledge that I return to Heaven and can be with my loved ones again
04- Prophets- Old and Present Day
03- The Holy Ghost
02- Jesus Christ/ The Atonement
01- God the Eternal Father

When we make a list like this, we discover that  a list of 100 doesn't even begin to scratch the surface of all the things God has given us.

FOR All the ABUNDANCE OF BLESSINGS, I AM GRATEFUL

Thankful Season Day #24

2011-11-24T19:13:00.000-08:00

Thankful For Family

Thankful Season Day # 23

2011-11-23T04:34:00.000-08:00

This picture shows a true glimpse of our lil' Maddie Cake! Her dimple melts your heart and her mischievous, Witty nature keeps us all smiling!
So Thankful for her in our lives!

A touching you/tube ENJOY!

2011-11-22T14:34:00.000-08:00

Men's Hearts will Fail Them

Thankful Season Day #22

2011-11-22T14:07:00.000-08:00

This is our #3 Grandaughter too!
YOU CAN TELL SHE IS DADDY'S Lil GIRL!
For her we are THANKFUL!

Thankful Season Day # 21

2011-11-21T19:01:00.000-08:00

You can tell from this Picture that this boy loves his new Mamma!

He is our newest and oldest Grandson
For him we are THANKFUL

Thankful Season Day #20

2011-11-20T17:04:00.000-08:00

So Thankful for our oldest Grand Daughter who is a lil' mother, she is a caretaker. She has the kindest heart. She is very smart. She is the light of our world!

Thankful Season Day #19

2011-11-19T08:13:00.000-08:00

Thankful Lil' Daxton is a part of our family!
Isn't he getting big?
Oh I could just kiss his cheeks off!
Notice the Blizzard in the background! Brrrrrrrr

Thankful Season Day #18

2011-11-18T15:46:00.000-08:00

Thankful it's FRIDAY, it's been a L-O-N-G

week!

Mr. Clark said he's thankful today that he got word today that his proceedure ( lung scope) is

CANCELLED.

They are going to give it more time!

They are thinking the cough is from the excess fluid Mr. C is carrying due to the dialysis.

We can handle that.

This is GREAT news!!!

For this we are

THANKFUL!

Thankful Season Day #17

2011-11-17T18:09:00.000-08:00

Mr. Clark had a GOOD day today.

First time in 2 weeks.

FOR THIS WE ARE THANKFUL!

UPDATE:
Infection in port site CONQUERED!
Then...
Peritonitis sets in. (infection inside his belly)
Day 4 of more antibiotics and the test results show HIGH white blood count.
BOOooooo
and yet again our house
seems like it is a 24 hr med. center!
11 more days of antibiotics and daytime dialysis along with every night routine.
Fionia (the dialysis machine) is booted out the door and Fionia II steps in (she has new software)to give us some peace and quiet at night!
Pneumonia- CONQUERED!
Cough-- still persistent but today seems to be a little better - Monday is his bronchial scope (at Wesley hospital, not happy about it)
:(
11/18 - update of the update: surgery is CANCELLED.
If things haven't improved in 2 weeks, we will reschedule. SHEW...

HIS EYES?
He will get his 4th injection on Nov. 23, They are improving some.
That wraps up another update on this L-O-N-G ordeal.
One thing is for sure,
WE ARE GOING TO BE EVEN MORE THANKFUL WHEN MR. CLARK GETS BACK TO HEALTH!
He really, really needs a NEW kidney!!!!!

Thankful Season Day #16

2011-11-16T20:29:00.000-08:00

Today,

For TEARS.

It means we love and care so much about people close to us.

Prayers and

Silence for now.

It's been a heartbreaking week for yet another Dear Friend.

Thankful Season Day #15

2011-11-15T13:57:00.000-08:00

So THANKFUL today for People that go above and beyond the call of duty!
Thankful for the FED EX Driver

and MR. GARY (Mr. Clark's Boss)

who came to the RESCUE

today.

Mr. Clark was having a low, low, low blood sugar after he shot up too much insullin.

Mr. Clark didn't call anyone because he thought he could come out of it on his own.

After 3 glucose tablets and 2 candy bars, he just continued to drop.

Yes, I told him he's in BIG TROUBLE! I have a job that I can leave at the drop of a hat.

Ms. Fex Ex knocked on our door only to find Mr. C with issues...
She secretly called who she new could help out.
Mr. Clark told her NOT to call 911

It pays to live in a wonderful community!

Mr. Gary who is one of the most caring/ compassionate people we know!

KUDO'S!

You are and will always be our HERO!

Thankful Season Day # 14

2011-11-14T14:09:00.000-08:00

Thankful today for the knowledge that we can be together with our loved ones once again after we die.

Thankful Season Day #13

2011-11-13T11:14:00.000-08:00

Today I am Thankful for SUNDAY'S

Thankful Season Day #12

2011-11-12T05:29:00.000-08:00

Thankful Season Day #11

2011-11-11T13:52:00.000-08:00

For all the Men and Women who have served our country. We are THANKFUL!

THANK YOU DADDY,
I
LOVE
YOU

Thankful Season day #10

2011-11-10T15:51:00.000-08:00

It's the LITTLE things that matter most!

FOR THIS WE ARE THANKFUL!

Update on Mr. Job!!!!!!!!!

2011-11-09T13:55:00.000-08:00

I think JoB should be Mr. Clark's new name! He has the attitude of Job anyway. He just takes what comes with great faith. Thank goodness that from Jobs experience we understand it could be much, much worse.

The day at the PuLmOnArY SpEcIaLiSt went well. A little more explanation on what he's experiencing and a shout out to "Just keep being patient". The greatest challenge is that his health is so compromised with his kidney issues. We are hopeful and we should know after this week.
Yes, We are giving it JuSt 1 mOrE WeEk...
Then if things haven't drastically improved we "GeT" (not sure that's a good thing) to go in for another TeSt... They are thinking the cough is just imflamatory effects from the pneumonia. If not... They will test for others things lung related. Not really worried though. The Doctor said she is pretty sure the test will show nothing significant. Yes, Knock on wood ...

On top of the fun we've had the last 2 1/2 months- he now has a dReAdEd InFeCtIon in his stomach at his dialysis site.
We both had just a bit of a melt down moment.

and possibly the INFLUENZA??? and sugar HIGH's...
my heart is going to tear apart and Mr. C (I mean Mr.J) is wearing down :(

Just thinking how much better it felt to only have the lasting effects the ChRoNiC CoUgh/SlEePLeSs NiGhTs due to the pneumonia.

Can we just go back to thinking those were our only troubles?????

We ArE SmIlLiNg tHoUgH BeCaUsE:

1- He has conquered THRUSH from the 3 rounds of antibiotics. knock on wood again!

2- His eyesight is ImPrOvInG.

3- After 2 I.V iron shots in 3 days, and up-ing his epo (the $$expensive shot) to twice a week. He feels like RuNniNg up the basement stairs instead of pulling himself up with the stair rail and me behind him threatening to GOOSE him. ; ) ok spoke too soon-that was short lived. He needs a shot everyday. :(

4- He (had) a little more StReNgTh. It lasted two days. A little taste of getting back to health. Even his grip has been a struggle. He has not even been able to open a bottle of water. Now if I can just get him to the YMCA to build some muscles back. Nurse Barb gave him a pep talk today when I suggested physical therapy. Oh I love having a team of support!

5- His appetite is coming back. I never thought we'd have such a hard time over dosing on MEAT. What, Another plus? I no longer have to worry about me being 'F'atter(oopsie I dropped the f-bomb) than he is. He is gaining again! No laughing matter... That one terrified me. Not enough to cut out the ice cream though.

6-He's been able to work 2 part days in a row, now were are back to no days :(

We can still have hope and faith and prayers that things are on the mend!

For this we are THANKFUL!

Thankful Season Day #9

2011-11-09T05:39:00.000-08:00

Thankful Season Day #8

2011-11-08T14:02:00.000-08:00

It's still raining! So today I am THANKFUL for the sound of our SUMP PUMP WORKING NON-STOP. It means our basement isn't flooding! Anybody that has stayed in our house knows how annoying that sound is. But after a drout this summer, It's a GOOD SOUND!

Thankful Season Day #7

2011-11-07T04:49:00.000-08:00

Thankful to be with my Man for 31 years!

11 more reasons we are celebrating!

Thankful Season Day #6

2011-11-06T05:59:00.000-08:00

THANKFUL FOR

TIME!!!

An extra hour in the day is
L-O-V-E-L-Y!

and....

I will be thankful not to drive to work in the

DARK!

Thankful Season Day #5

2011-11-05T02:42:00.000-07:00

So Thankful for Jesus Christ. Here is One of my favorite messages on The Atonement

Thankful Season Day #4

2011-11-04T14:09:00.000-07:00

Ability to *PRAY for others pain, illnesses and heart aches. It has been a hard day for our son, (and also for all of those who are associated with this tragic incident) ksl news here:
He just started a new job and was the engineer on the second engine of this train. He witnessed a man jump in front of a train to his death. Prayers sent to all train engineers who can not stop in time for people that for what ever reason are in a trains path. Lots of Hugs today sent your way. TEARS

Thankful Season Day #3

2011-11-03T15:39:00.000-07:00

THANKFUL TO BE EMPLOYED

Thankful for jobs We enjoy.

It's so awesome to go to work at a low stress job.

(I appreciate even more thanks to my 'LA- Albertsons' experience!)

We know where we'd be without it.

Mr. Clark had this dream the other night that we lived on the street...

Literally

and he was warning me that I couldn't sleep in the middle of the road!

We got a good laugh,

Soooooo

Very, Very Thankful to be employed.

It's something we appreciate and don't take for granted.

Thankful Season Day #2

2011-11-02T18:55:00.000-07:00

THANKFUL FOR THE RAIN!

Thankful Season Day # 1

2011-11-01T14:24:00.000-07:00

We didn't realize how burdened we were feeling about our yard getting winterized until things were taking care of.
Our first reaction after the sprinkling system was winterized--- SIGH... "Oh Wow, do your shoulders feel lighter?" - "Yes, indeed"

With Mr. Clark still experiencing no strength. Our "Miracle Man" (co-worker) hooked up an air compressor for us. I towed it home, and Mr. Clark directed me on how to get the sprinkling system lines free of water. I have to say, I have a little more confidence in things I knew nothing about. It is taken care of. So for this WE ARE THANKFUL!

THANKFUL: For our own afflictions

2011-10-29T07:37:00.000-07:00

We are blessed with our own trials.

We think we have trials until we see an other's burdens, struggles and heart aches.
Is it a coincidence that we were able to see someone with problems bigger than ours this week?
Hmmm
Once again...
It is a blessing, and gives one a different perspective.

We saw a man this week at the eye doctor. While Mr. Clark was getting yet two more eye injections.
(I think you might call what he has 'elephants disease') I'm sure what he is enduring is more than any could bear.

I pondered his journey.
I should have went up to him and shook his hand.
And let him know I know he is one of GOD's Favored Sons

Oh I just wanted to go tell him what I believed about-

"The Great plan of Happiness"
and how special he must be to face such challenges.
Why me? these questions answered here:

and What I believe about our Bodies being restored to it's perfect form from the Book of Mormon:

Physical restoration. In writing of the Resurrection, Jacob taught the exquisite completeness of a physical restoration in which “the spirit and the body is restored to itself again, and all men become incorruptible, and immortal” (2 Ne. 9:13). Amulek also testified that in the Resurrection “the spirit and the body shall be reunited again in its perfect form; both limb and joint shall be restored to its proper frame. …

“And even there shall not so much as a hair of their heads be lost; but every thing shall be restored to its perfect frame” (Alma 11:43–44; see also Alma 40:23).

To get a copy of this book go HERE:

This knowledge brings so many hope.

We get comfort and strength from the trials of others.

Check out this song/video of one of my favorite christian song writer/singer called

Beautiful Heartaches

Hilary shares Nies story and

This lady's trial too!

THANKFUL TUESDAY: 10 Steps forward, 5 Steps Back!

2011-10-11T23:06:00.000-07:00

Well the lungs are arguing with going back to work.
We should have knocked on wood!
It's so hard to know whether to push it and get up and get going or continue to recover
??????
A hard weekend/ a hard new week :(
Just happy we had a moment of reprieve.
We Thankyou for your prayers!
XO

A little thought:
"Without patience, we will learn less in life. We will see less. We will feel less. We will hear less. Ironically, rush and ---" take 5 steps back...

Adapted from this quote:

"Without patience, we will learn less in life. We will see less. We will feel less. We will hear less. Ironically, rush and more usually means less." - Mother Teresa

A WISE WOMAN!

Oh say, can he see?

2011-10-07T15:47:00.000-07:00

A LITTLE BETTER! We are making PROGRESS. His eyes haven't recovered yet from the 'Macho Machine' (blood dialysis that took his eye sight), but look... he just went 5 days back on the job, and this is how he gets through his paperwork! The fact that he is back to work after 5 weeks well...

WE ARE CELEBRATING.

Still struggling for strength and he has to have a designated driver! :(

BUT we are THANKFUL for a positive change!

YA HOOOOOOOOOO

Update: The Sun is Shining in Kansas!

2011-10-01T08:21:00.000-07:00

Today:

The Temperatures are COOL!

It is a BEAUTIFUL DAY IN KANSAS.

After a bleak start on Monday things seem to be brighter today.

Monday: Eye Injections and the Doctor broke the news that both of Mr. Clarks eyes have yet again taking a significant dip...

We are trying to keep our head up, Mr. C cannot get his drivers license until they heal, yet again.

On a positive note* We can already tell the injections are helping and we know his eyes can heal.

The PLUS: Yes, the Doc said, "It should take a shorter amount of time to heal. "

(we remember our battle 1 1/2 yrs. ago)

On Monday we were still battling the 'FEVER' yet again.

Today, the fever has subsided.

On Monday, His battle with pneumonia was exhausting, He wasn't getting any sleep.

Last X-ray showed improvement.

A new antibiotic seems to be helping and he started on an inhaler.

Made for a better day.

A new battle?

Instead of High Blood Pressure (which kicked his eye sight)

Its now Low Blood Pressure.

The battle continues, we are just adjusting the meds.

The battle with swelling feet is better today.

We are still fighting eating enough PROTIEN (Mr. C. hates that word)

to gain strength.

Standing up is difficult, and he's started in with the shakes :( I started to say you need more Pro-----
oopsie bad word....

If you talk to him today. He sounds back to himself, you can hear it in his voice.

I think he is feeling better.

and for this we are GRATEFUL!

Where Can I Turn for Peace?

2011-09-29T22:03:00.000-07:00

I follow Nies blog religiously and this post gives me comfort. Not only for her words but for her pictures. (Makes me miss FALL in Utah) This gives me GREAT PEACE. So I have to share her post HERE:and my most FAVORITE COMFORT SONG HERE and another reason this is my FAVORITE time of year?
HERE: I love to listen to a Prophets voice, and hear the word of God. You don't have to be a member. AND A BONUS-- My friends son is singing this year. So excited to watch for him. To watch it view it Here:

The Beauty of Gratitude

2011-09-17T11:09:00.000-07:00

A Dear Friend sent me this you tube,

My first impression was BEAUTY, COMFORT, PEACE and BLESSINGS.

See: gratitude"HERE"

Takes any sadness and heartache away and replaces is with the beauty of LIFE!

BEAUTIFUL!

Thankful Thursday: 57 degrees and LOVING IT!

2011-09-15T17:21:00.000-07:00

GUESS WHO LOVES FALL?
& DIPPING TEMPERATURES?
THE MILLS FAMILY!
FOR THIS WE ARE THANKFUL!

Woah it's Wednesday... Our Roller Coaster

2011-09-14T09:49:00.000-07:00

So I missed Thankful Tuesday,

It was a ROLLER COASTER DAY

Mr. Clark went in for a ct scan on Monday.

We were surprised to hear them say,

"YOU NEED TO BE ADMITTED"

Booooooo and back to I.C.U

After our whirlwind day,

We both were feeling some intense pressure.

I want to remember what we went through. Because although things SEEMED UNIMAGINABLE, it takes time to get answers and Its a reminder NOT to PANIC.

We knew the results could take us in a new direction.

I can't describe the feeling of trying to think positively with out reacting to "what might be" and the feeling of just keeping the faith that it will all be ok"

about a thousand times over in our brain in over a 30 second period and then starting all over again.

I think your brain goes into OVERLOAD! Trying to sort through the highs and lows of life at the moment.

The doctor came and talked to us and things seem grim. You know they take you to the worse possible scenario, I guess.

Possible leak in the newly spliced colon.

The colon all massed and scar tissue making it all grow together while healing so that it isn't working? Inflamation and streaks.

Ahhhhhhhhhh

So he went for testing.

Nothing that can't be fixed, We knew.

But a sure end to any possibility of staying on the peritoneal dialysis.

Oh yes, we knew what we were headed for.

As Mr Clark is reassuring to "BE STRONG"

We were both nervous.

When all is said and done.

NO LEAK.

They think all is well.

Pneumonia still an issue but not life threatening.

More Antibiotics.

And we are HOME.

We know our problems are minimal.

Shew...
On a positive note * His port cath for HEMO (blood) dialysis is OUT. YA HOooooooooo
Fionia the Filter welcomed us home!
We are SAFE with Peritoneal (Fluid) dialysis
:)

THANKFUL THURSDAY: SMALL MIRACLES

2011-09-08T19:43:00.000-07:00

Hard day today,
spent most of the day in E.R
Mr. C has pneumonia
BUT...
we are home and

Fionia the filter is working succesfully.

We recognize God's hand in all things,
simply called MIRACLES

For these things we are THANKFUL.

Dear Fionia the Filter

2011-09-07T19:22:00.000-07:00

We promise to never complain about you again, oh Fionia the Filter...

You have been a blessing in our home.

We just didn't realize how much you mean to us until we had to temporarily shut you down.

We will always and forever (at least until we get a transplant) invite you to be in our daily routine.

You see, we now have had the experience of "Hemo-the macho machine". It has been a night mare.

At least you will show compassion to his blood pressures, and make Mr. Clark feel well.

Please keep Mr. Clark safe from "HEMO the macho machine" forever more.

We appreciate you and miss your routine...

P.S We are successfully back on home dialysis. The Port for Hemo is rebelling. We do not want another surgery to put a permanent stent in. We hope going back on peritoneal dialysis permanent will be considered Prayers answered??? We'll see.

Thankyful Tuesday: We keep fallin' in love with you!

2011-09-06T19:26:00.000-07:00

As we grow older together, As we continue to change with age, There is one thing that will never change... We will always keep falling in love with you.”

HAPPY 6 MONTHS TO OUR LIL MAN!

Catch 22

2011-09-05T17:27:00.000-07:00

We believe things happen for a reason...

Our decision to have colon surgery was with hesitation.

We both prayerfully considered NOT doing it.

And

we BOTH had the same answer.

We headed into the risks knowing that the only way Mr. Clark could get on the kidney/pancreas transplant list at BAYLOR was proceed with everything that would give him a clearance.

We have fought a hard fight getting him back to health this passed year.

His macular edema that was just cleared is back,

Due to the Hemo/dialysis.

It is a catch 22.

He must have the Hemo while his stomach heals but it is putting him ten steps back.

We will continue to keep our heads up!

We know that miracles have happened for him and will continue to happen.

He is such a rock.

Thankyou for your continued prayers.

We feel them.

Thankful Thursday: Lets skip today!

2011-09-01T18:06:00.000-07:00

It was a 'smurf' of a day.

So we are concentrating on:

5 Thankful things about today?

1-The green trees

(Mr. Clark's fav.)
On our way home from our adventure with the team at Fresinius, Mr Clark was noticing the beautiful among the dry yellow scorched state.

2-The heat...

Mr Clark appreciated the triple digit day!

Now Kansas holds a state record of 51 days in the 100's. Mr. Clark has the uncontrolable shakes and shivers. Wobbly legs too. It is frightening.
We discovered it was not only the dehydration from the Hemo, but also the med for restless leg. Problem solved.

3-Daddo Mac,

Mr. C's lifesafer of love and positive vibes!
After a horrible day. Discouragement set in. (Very unusual for him) At midnight Mr. Clark needed to hear his Dad's voice. It was emotional. Yes, Dad lifted his spirits.

4-The thought of Kylie walking Papa Clark's walk. Those cutie cakes make life wonderful!
Talking to our son today. Mr. C was able to focus on what makes our lives so blessed. (OUR FAMILY) Being reminded has made a difference in our day.

5- Cell phones,
Thankful for communication. Although mine is having issues, it only takes one of us to have a cell phone! We would never be able to survive our ordeal without being able to talk to our family. What a blessing.

Thankful for the simple and wonderful things on a day like today.

'nough said.

P.S. Mr. C is fevering now, please keep him in your prayers. XO

Over and done with!

2011-08-27T04:56:00.000-07:00

This is where we spent the last 6 days.
Mr. Clark had his colon surgery.
Every thing went GREAT.
We were blessed with a small miracle in that they didn't have to take 3" of colon.
Sliced it open, removed the polyp and closed him up.
He had an added bonus out of this surgery.
He also had a hernia removed from his naval.
We didn't realize he had one. We feel we got a 2 for 1 deal. Oh wait a minute...
a 3 for 1 deal... I forgot they also added a port to do Hemo Dialysis. 5 incisions. He's Home and doing OK!

Dialysis, Kind of tough to see your own blood outside your body.
They will be doing Hemo(blood) dialysis for a few weeks until his stomach heals to continue Peritoneal Dialysis.
We are praying it all works out.

Leg wraps are for circulation. Mr. Clark's life saver.
Oh wait a minute...
He would say the "morphine" was his life saver!

This is our view from ICU.
The good thing about ICU is I had a support group! The waiting room families. We all had a few laughs and a lot of tears.
I had to be grateful for our own problems. Ours were minimal to others.

This is our view from our regular room. So nice to see it GREEN!

After 5 days of NO FOOD. Mr Clark welcomed yucky scrambled eggs. This hospital is unique in you call and order from the menu. As much as you want when you want it. Loved it!

Mr. Clark KICKED THE BUCKET
literally!
This was his buddy. He had issues with nausea and he would not let us put the bucket out of his site. He hollered at me yesterday,
"Sharon, I kicked the bucket"
We got a good laugh!
A good laugh? Yes, because death is always in the back of our minds.
The what if?
We feel thankful everything is OK.

THANKFUL THURSDAY: I'M BACK...

2011-08-18T14:43:00.000-07:00

BACK TO WORK...

BACK TO THE YMCA...

FEELING IT!!!!!!!

GOTTA BE SO THANKFUL!

Thankful Tuesday: What Matters Most

2011-08-16T07:19:00.000-07:00

Today we mourn with family and relatives over the loss of a precious daughter/sibling/neice/cousin/friend who's life on earth is complete.
Laney

Just 20 yrs old.

She offered Mr. Clark her kidney just a few months ago.
She felt a strong desire to help others and really wanted to do this.

After all is said and done she has given something special to us all.

A special, special girl.

Our prayers go out to her family.

And this thought 'what matters most' here: seems so important...

Wish we could be surrounded by those we love.

It's times like this that make you cherish each breath of life and those that are in it.

Nothing can be taken for granted.
P.S...
Have I told you lately that I love you?
I DO!

THANKFUL THURSDAY: 5 Lovely Distractions!

2011-08-11T06:01:00.000-07:00

OUR YOUNG WOMEN/ Youth group at our home for a game of EXTREME SPOONS.

WHAT IN THE WORLD IS EXTREME SPOONS?

The object: after getting 4 of a kind in cards you have to find a 'hidden' spoon!

(normal rules: enough spoons are on the table for players minus 1. The first one to get a match grabs a spoon. The one left without a spoon is OUT)
(photo's removed via the privacy of our YW girls)

Thankful Tuesday: A taste of Summer

2011-08-09T15:15:00.000-07:00

LOVIN'

Our Local Farmers Market.

Our summer seems like it is just

BEGINNING,

Because life has finally quieted down enough

to remember the Farmers Market is now

OPEN!

Ohhhhhhhhh

Fresh tomatoes, only from a little ol' lady that gives them extra love!

And.

Pickled Okra,

Cucumbers,

Yummy preserves,

Amazing Pies.

Visiting with the kind

Mennonite People that just seem to be
the best cooks, and gardeners.
The refreshing goodness of SUMMER!
For this We are THANKFUL!

Fearless on Friday: Steeper Hills/Brighter Perspective

2011-08-05T08:01:00.000-07:00

FEARLESS ON FRIDAY?

I Fearlessly weeded my front flower bed.

FEARLESSLY?

Well, it was a cooler morning.

SHEW...

And then I came in to relax and read this:

HERE:

And on too STEEPER HILLS!

I expect to keep a BRIGHTER PERSPECTIVE!

Thankful Thursday: Our Prayer

2011-08-04T05:35:00.000-07:00

Dear God,
THANKS TO THEE for giving us some positive news this week. Mr. Clark's MACULAR EDEMA is GONE. We heard the words "BACK TO NORMAL" We needed a boost this week.
For thy hand in our lives we are THANKFUL, AMEN

Inpired by "THE HOARDERS"

2011-08-03T06:44:00.000-07:00

Ever been 'INSPIRED'

by the "HOARDERS"

??????????

I have to watch it a few times,

to remind me that

STUFF

doesn't define me!

My goal this summer was to seriously get rid of some STUFF.
Down to the last day's of summer!
Check out this link "40 bags in 40 days"
HERE:
(a little motivation)
GETTIN' IT DONE!
UPDATE:
I had a challenge from my dear friend. She gave me a wonderful idea.
Today (08/12/2011)
I dropped 2 bins of videos off at our local womens shelter.
When I came out I was crying.
Happy/Sad- letting go tears!
That was tougher that I thought!
I grieved for my Mom today.
I've held on to these videos for 15 yrs.
(although I let go of material things that she collected. *NOTE: Not "The land before time" series yet!)
I don't think she disowned me today!
I think she would have put her arms around me and told me I had issues! I won't tell you about getting rid of the rollout towel for making pastries.
(the was a MELTDOWN MOMENT)
I haven't let go of the 7 dishpacks I'm carting around until I settle down in a BIGGER house!
Ahhh....

The 'Hoarder' series

Inspires me!

I'm thinking we all need some letting go Anon!

Thankful Tuesday: My Grandma Mayme

2011-08-02T08:35:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY GRANDMA MAYME!

IN MEMORY OF MY GRANDMOTHER

Who LOVED

PINK!

& TEA PARTIES!
She belonged to a sophisticated women's club, she would bake the most sophisticated meal for her sophisticated friends and serve it ever so FANCY.

She was talented in the fine art of TATTING

I will remember her APRONS.

Her pots of violets in her kitchen window.

Her wigs, and beautiful Hats.

She was a PERFECT house keeper!

She LOVED DRESSES
She was one of those elite ladies that dressed to the hilt to go to the grocery store!
I still remember shopping for a pair of pants for her and she said, "I just don't think I'll ever like them"

I will never forget her "FLY SPECKS" (freckles)dilemma. The miracle of Doctor Spocs? freckle cream so that her nick name of "Fly Specks" wasn't "fly specks" any more!"

The only story she repeated over and over!

Thank goodness she married My Grandpa because, "Mr. Wright was Mr. Wrong."

I love my memory of 'paper dolls',
Walking on top of her 8 ft. white picket fence.
I was the culprit who helped her cheat on her drivers license test and was in BIG TROUBLE when she got lost driving her car!

I have wonderful memories of you.
I love you.

SO THANKFUL THAT GRANDMA MAYME WAS IS OUR LIVES.

Fearless on FRIDAY:

2011-07-29T12:03:00.000-07:00

Fearlessly---

I mowed my lawn at 7:00am.

Almost FEARFUL

my neighbors would come out and HOLLOR!
(Jules, you would hate me as your neighbor...nite owl)

Yet, another reason

to be fearful, it wasn't cool at even at 7:00 am.

IT HAS BEEN AN

EXTREME HEAT

SEASON.

3 showers later,

I SURVIVED.

First year that we have been in Kansas that our area has been in drought conditions.

First year that the temperatures have stayed over 100 for 3 consectutive weeks.

It has been as high as 113

Everything is

YELLOW.
Except my GRASS

FEARLESSLY,

I Paid the Bills

and Did the Grocery Shopping.

FEARLESSLY,

I snuck back to SPANGLES

after driving away WITHOUT the food we just paid for.

oooopsie...

It was an intense conversation with my friend!
We had a good laugh!

Fearlessly,

I tackled taking things I can't let go of. And dropped them off at the

SALVATION ARMY.

THANKFUL THAT WE HAVE THE BEAUTY OF GREEN GRASS TO MOW,A SPRINKLING SYSTEM, SHOWERS, COMFORTS OF AN AIR-CONDITIONED HOME, $MONEY TO PAY THE BILLS,FAST FOOD,
AND THE COMFORTS OF A VEHICLE TO DRIVE, GOOD FRIENDS, AND TOO MUCH STUFF.

It helps to make this a FEARLESS FRIDAY...

SO BLESSED
Shhh ---Its feeling a little back to normal these day's.
It's a good feeling, and I'm holding on to it!

Thankful Thursday: For my favorite book in the whole wide world!

2011-07-28T12:33:00.000-07:00

Today my friend posted a blogsite about journal keeping. It mainly stated that if you don't keep a record everyday you forget the important details. How easy it is to FORGET the blessings we have daily. One of my favortie passages in my favorite book is: "OH REMEMBER, REMEMBER"
     It reminded me how THANKFUL I am for some VERY IMPORTANT Prophets of days of old, who followed the Lord and kept records of their lives. You can read or get a free copy of my favorite book in the whole wide world HERE to watch a simple overview of my favorite book check it out HERE:
I have studied and read this book as much as I do the Bible. While traveling the past few weeks I have listened to this book. Pondering its words gives me peace. It testifies of the Bible. The importance of it. It is another witness of Jesus Christ. It testifies of Jesus Christ. To me it is BEYOND POWERFUL.
        One of my favorite verses is: In Second Nephi chapter 29 vs 7 God is telling us.: " Know ye not that there are more nations than one? Know ye not that I, the Lord God, have created all men, and that I remember those who are upon the tales of the sea: and that I rule the heavens above and in the earth beneath; and I will bring forth my word unto the children of men, yea even upon all the nations of the earth. "
This book is the history of those people of 'other nations'
It is AMAZING.
Don't take my word for it. Read it for yourself.

A Sneak Peak:

2011-07-26T15:07:00.000-07:00

The Bride

Elyse and her New Daughter "R"

Maid of Honor Shannon helping Ky Before the wedding

Pam, Kendra and Curtis, Collette and Alaina
(see the centerpieces and a portion of the gardens?) Behind them is Nicole (Hall) Hansen and her family and Bob Hall special neighobrs to me growing up in Amercian Fork.

Our Granddaughters: Ky and Maddie Cake and "R" getting ready

More to follow:

Thankful Tuesday: Home

2011-07-26T08:56:00.000-07:00

Leaving for 10 days and then coming H-O-M-E

Seems so comforting.

Although the Fridge is EMPTY,

There is nothing like walking in the door

and smelling HOME.

(it's a good smell!)

Even the bathroom seems inviting

as we sink into our own space!

Ahhhhhh

The routine of things is

beckoning!

That's when you know its been a good break!

SO HAPPY to have been with FAMILY.

Kissing on our Kids

and the CUTIE CAKES

And Celebrating

the new beginning of our daughters life, Now a new son in law and 2 new grandchildren.

Meeting Old Friends and Visiting Relatives

It's good to be HOME &

LIFE IS WONDERFUL!

Our Vacation in View

2011-07-20T13:50:00.000-07:00

Meet the Humphrey's
Jeff and Elyse and our newest Grandchildren

The Fun with the Cutie Cakes at the Menloves

On our way to Swasey Cabin south of I70
( A desert tour with Gramps, Tyrel, Mr. C and Me)

At the BAKER'S
My Bro. was such a great host!

AND THE WEDDING PICS SOON!

The Big Event is coming up!

2011-07-09T06:23:00.000-07:00

The Big Event is coming up!

Introducing Jeff and Elyse

2 New Grandchildren!

an added bonus :)

Update: Good News, Bad News

2011-07-03T17:31:00.000-07:00

Another update:
The good news: THE CATARACT SURGERY WENT AWESOME!

For the past year and 1/2 Mr. Clark has worn these ugly dark glasses!

Today we went for a Sunday drive to the lake. Without the dreaded dark glasses! Not only does the light not irritate his eyes...

HE CAN SEE!!!!!!!!

SHEW...

(scheduled the second Cataract surgery on July 13th.)

The bad news:

His colonoscopy didn't fair as well.

He has a large polyp listed as a High Grade Displacia
(which is the stage just before cancer)

He will be needing surgery to remove 3" of his colon.

Scheduled for ~~Aug. 8th~~ (not)
Now Aug 22nd.
due to the surgeons family emergency.

MORE BAD NEWS...

Our regular Physician has RETIRED
TEARS AND MORE TEARS...
I can't say enough good about this guy.
HE HAS BEEN OUR ADVOCATE.
OUR SAVIOR,
OUR BIGGEST SUPPORT.
Not only a Doctor but a COUNSELOR!
OUR FRIEND.
WE WILL MISS HIM

EVEN MORE BAD NEWS...

OUR KIDNEY DOCTOR HAS MOVED...

This will be difficult because he has been another amazing Doctor that we felt personally attached too. Not many Doctors make you feel like they are your ONLY patient.
He has been at our side at a drop of a needle.

We felt so much CONFIDENCE in these Doctors that it is going to be difficult to find anyone else like them.

OUR PROGRESS HAS HIT A LITTLE BUMP

THE GOOD NEWS:

If it wasn't for his upcoming evaluation at

Baylor Med in Dallas, Texas

for his kidney/pancreas transplant

we may have found out too late that he has issues.
*Baylor Eval temporarily cancelled
until reports come back from the colon surgery.
:(

EVEN BETTER NEWS...
We still are hopeful he will get to Baylor Medical for his kidney/pancreas transplant

We anticipate that after all is said and done.

HE WILL BE A BRAND NEW HEALTHY MAN!

Keep him in your prayers.

Thankful Tuesday:Terry and Bubble Gum

2011-06-28T17:31:00.000-07:00

In Memory of Our dear Friend, Terry:

Last week I went into Mr. Clark's office,
where I automatically walk to his desk. There
in a drawer, ever so hidden under some files
is STASHED BUBBLE GUM
from TERRY.

Everyone that works there had their own special

Stash.

Because she was thoughtful that way.

I found my very last piece and wondered if I should eat it.

It was an emotional moment for me.

Terry passed away with Lung Cancer

and We all miss her SOOoooo Much.

Terry was the MOST AMAZING women you'll ever meet.

Terry often said, "go to Sam's and just get you a bucket" I just told her I'd chew my jaws off and besides I could take the chance to visit her!

This Saturday,
Mr. Clark bought me a BUCKET of Bubble Gum.

First time ever I let him!

I will remember Terry now every time I chew a piece of Bubble Gum.

I've needed her this week.

I wish she were here to just take off and go to lunch and chat about her Grand daughters 1st Birthday and Brag about our adorable grandchildren and feel normal and good. Because that was her way.
Making every one feel that we were her very best friend.

I've been chewing my jaws off.

And while I'm chewing I have to be reminded of my good friend, Terry

She reminds me to BE TOUGH,

PRAY ALWAYS,

KEEP A GOOD ATTITUDE, SERVE OTHERS,

TAKE GOOD CARE OF OUR MEN.

LOVE LIFE.

Thank you Terry, XO

HAPPY FATHERS DAY TO A GREAT MAN, MY HUSBAND

2011-06-19T17:43:00.000-07:00

I've often been very grateful for the GREAT Husband I have. I want to honor him today for the man he is and for the qualities that not to many people are aware of.
From the first day we met I knew he had some great skills, talents and abilities. He is a good, good provider. A hard worker, with his family always a priority. He started working at 12 on a dairy farm. He gave part of his income to help his family when he was a kid. Do you ever hear of any kids doing that anymore?
He is a good mechanic, a good hunter, a good friend, he is loyal, he is patient, and he is a good Christian. He just impressed me. Any one that knew me then, knows that from the second we met on that first blind date. I said, "this guy is for me! "
When we were dating, the first thing I was attracted to his ambition and love for life. His dedication. His endurance and Strength. He made me feel safe and loved.
The second thing that impressed me was his willingness to give up 2 years of his life to be a missionary for our church. This was his goal and it was especially hard when we got serious. A girl complicates life as a missionary. Seriously, I know it took strong committment.
Not only is he dedicated to everything he loves. He is fun! Oh, I better mention HE IS A BIG TEASE!
    He knows how to have a really good time, and together we shared a lot of awesome memories.
I'll never forget one of our first dates.  He took me out on Utah Lake. It was mucky, dirty, scummy water.
    I hadn't really been in a boat before but I loved water (just not this water). He said, "jump in I'm going to teach you to water ski." My first reaction on Ewwwww. not in this water. But I took the plunge.
From the very beginning there was just something about him that I trusted. If he said it was safe I believed him.  Being right beside me, he coached me to ski and at the first attempt, Up I went out of the water skiing to my hearts content. It was the beginning of some amazing times on many Lakes.
    We spent a lot of time in the mountains. Hunting and Fishing. It has been a big part of our life. Another big part of our life was Farming. He helped me conquer my fear with animals. Being a city girl and all. We loved the time of our life when animals were a huge part of it.
    I have often wondered if there was anything he couldn't do? He was like a human crane. I swear, he could lift anything. I think that is why it is so hard to see him loose so much muscle. People that know him now, could have never imagined what a strong, hard worker he has always been . He just never gives up. He worked 12-14 hours a day on the job (oh wait a minute, he still works these kind of hours!but he comes home and rests now!)
    He would often come home and work on the farm or his second job with his family. He was constantly helping someone with anything they needed. He is a great example of service to his family. I've just never seen anything like him. He constantly amazes. me.
     He has given me support and confidence in everything I attempted. He has taught me to try to look past the negative and find JOY!
     One thing that people don't know about Mr. Clark is he is incredibly smart (yes book smart. Especially in math) and also when it comes to the knowledge of the gospel. While driving for a career and then driving 45 min. each way to his job, he was never without scripture cd's. There has never been a question I've wondered that he couldn't answer.
     He has always had a 'no worry' attitude. If something goes wrong we'll get through it.
We lived a (now that we look back!) almost problem free life for the first 7 yrs , except for the normal day to day problems. Then one year began a series of extreme challenges. Things couldn't have been worse. Our hearts broke. I remember thinking. "why us, how could this happen to us" Mr. Clark was right there with the attitude that we could grow from this experience and life would be ok. Thank goodness he is the optimist. Indeed this experience helped us get through even more challenges in the years to come.
      He is a forgiving, loving person. If you make him mad he just forgives and forgets. He has taught us all just to let hurt full things we do to each other go. His motto: "Its not worth destroying our relationships over". He has kept our family grounded with peace amidst our trials.
      On his mission and In his working career he has been sent to areas and worked with people that have been difficult or have had circumstances where Mr. Clark has made a difference. . I can tell you I've watched miracles in the places he's worked. He has brought an attitude of unity and a stronger willingness to get along and pride in their work,  with everyone he is around.
      How can I explain in a significant way his influence? He is just a good guy. His attitude reflects in those he is around.
      When the children were small he worked a lot. Our memories consist of working along side of him especially when we were first married. I had to be right next to any vehicle he was working on. I got to be the tool caddy for a long time. He has always been the type of Husband/Father that wants to be surrounded by his family. My home duties were often neglected. Things didn't change much when the children came along. It continued to be every spare minute right next to Dad no matter what he was doing. I can't even tell you how many times we were all on the tractor plowing fields. or in the shop as a mechanic or on a garbage truck running the route for the family business. We spent a lot of quality time working along side of him. Many lessons learned and strong bonds as a family built.
       He is the most compassionate person, but he doesn't tolerate pity. He is a great listener, and his advice has been incredible. As I've said before, I love when the kids, now adults call him for advice. I hear his strength he gives them. I can't imagine life without his counsel. I know that his impact has been such a good one. I am so proud to be a part of his life. For the man he is. For the trial of health he has encountered and how courageous and positive he is about anything he deals with.
      We were filling out a survey for his kidney dialysis. It was asking him if he was depressed being on dialysis. He said, "what? what should I be depressed about. This is life, we just deal with the changes it brings"
      For his optimism, love and genuine goodness. If I ever seem courageous in our adversity. It's because of the man I've been next to for the past 30 + yrs. I am privileged to be his partner.
HAPPY FATHERS DAY, MY MAN!

Moments that Matter Most

2011-06-17T09:49:00.000-07:00

Today, reflecting on the emotions in our family this past month - A BABY BLESSING, A WEDDING AND A FUNERAL & BEING SURROUNDED BY FAMILY has by far been Moments that Matter Most: This is the entire talk given by an Apostle of the Lord, Jesus Christ HERE

THE CYCLE OF LIFE: all in one weekend

2011-06-15T07:38:00.000-07:00

Mr. Clark and Gramps looking for their reccomend
How do you prepare to go to the temple here:

GRAMPS AT THE TEMPLE
(shshshsh he dressed in the dark! We gave him a hard time about his brown pants and blue striped suit coat!)

The Oquirrh Mountain Temple in South Jordan, Utah
See why mormons build temples here:

JUST MARRIED

Jay, Eric, Kendra And Pam

Gramps is giving Eric and Kendra Advice...

Danielle and Mr. Clark Just waiting before the ceremony

Tyrel and little Garret at the Temple

The in-between fun!
Kylie with a chick

Maddie Cake is just not sure if you wants to hold a chick.
(the chick is hollering "YOU ARE SQUISHING ME")

THE BRIDAL SHOWER
The upcoming wedding is in JULY
THIS IS ELYSE ( Our Daughter) playing The bubble gum game.
For every missed answer about Jeff she had to eat a piece of bubble gum

Laura and Kylie

Aunt Sherron, Teresa, and Grandma Linda

Aunt Connie and Best Friend Sarah

Enjoying the fun!

Kylie helps with bowes in Aunt Leesies hair

My Niece and Elyse's Cousin Mckenzie and Brittany with Daxton

Mckenzie is loving on Daxton

My Neice and Elyses Cousin Kara and girls enjoying the fun at the Shower

The Shower bunch minus Lola, only her broken leg is showing :(

THE FUNERAL OF OUR BROTHER IN LAW
FRANK

A LIFE WELL LIVED.

We will miss you FRANK

Truly Blessed

2011-06-06T04:36:00.000-07:00

Truly Blessed by Lynn C. Johnson .

When I found more pain in others
Than I found within myself
I learned what it meant to feel compassion
And my pain began to fade
When I found more forgiveness in others
Than I found within myself
I learned what it meant to feel peace
And my heart began to mend
When I found more belief in others
Than I found within myself
I learned what it meant to have faith
And my fears began to die
And when I found more love in others
Than I found within myself
I learned what it meant to feel truly blessed
And my spirit began to soar.

''Every day we are offered new means for learning and growing in love.'' Leo Buscaglia .

I'm melting... melting!!!

2011-06-05T16:17:00.000-07:00

WISHIN' THIS WAS ~~HEAT~~ OR AT LEAST '~~WATER'~~ RELATED!!!

JUST WHEN THINGS SEEM TO BE SETTLING DOWN FOR A MOMENT...

YET ANOTHER MELT DOWN STRIKES...

LOL...
Now that its over.

Blogging this info makes me feel like I NEED A SHRINK...

Wasn't it just last week that I had a melt down???

Yes... IF ONLY I WOULD LEARN TO LISTEN TO MR. CLARK

(I should be convinced by now he is always right!)

who tried to convince me all night to RELAX
my theory: "who can relax when you see 2 red streaks up your leg..."

And guess what.

Yet again. I no-- WE SURVIVED ANOTHER CRISES

Yep, Mr Clark went through one series of antibiotics

and after the 10 day's was up, we felt so confident that his leg was healing fantastic.

And why should things work out that way???
IT'S ALL ABOUT LIFE EXPERIENCES!

On Saturday, Just befor bed. (on the 11th day...)

His leg flared another full blown infection.

And at midnight.

(and I want to know why oh why??? we wake up in the middle of the night???)

In a PANIC.

subconscious worrying, I guess???

I think to myself

AHhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh

"I bet it was the bug spray that I sprayed on him on Friday night that caused the infection to reoccur."

THANKFULLY

after an E.R. trip

(it always happens on the weekend)
We were reassured it was not the 'bug spray'

He just needs another series of antibiotics.
We should know by now that nothing is just 10 days long...

I beat my self up pretty good to the fact that

"IT MUST BE ALL MY FAULT"

Yes, without bug spray to prevent chigger bites in Kansas. Chigger bites would have been equally as devastating.

NEVER THE LESS...

I FELT HORRIBLE

and had YET ANOTHER MELT DOWN...

So I've hit my limit of MELT DOWNS...

And after all is said and done,

We feel blessed it didn't have to be IV antibiotics.

We'll keep praying for his leg...
and....
NO MORE MELT DOWNS!

Memorial Weekend

2011-06-01T05:25:00.000-07:00

SCHOOLS OUT FOR THE

SUMMER......

First things first...

I've been PAINTING

still have to get brave enough to "faux" finish these walls.

Also started painting the DECK

and then...

WE HIT THE ROAD!

Spent the Memorial weekend in

DENVER

with the kiddos

Honoring those who have given their lives.

and BLESSING our lil' DAXTON

Pappa Clark bonded to this cutest lil' guy!

They were almost inseparable!

Speaking of which,

Mr C traveled well. We discovered the secret...

He must lay in the back seat with his legs elevated so he doesn't swell up.

His leg is healing well.

THE NEXT FAMILY EVENT...

OUR DAUGHTERS WEDDING!

Getting Prepared for TORNADO'S...

2011-05-23T18:59:00.000-07:00

After seeing news of the horrific tornado's that have come our way. We are preparing for possible severe weather on Tuesday and Wednesday.

THANK YOU FOR OUR KATRINA EXPERIENCE--

We never doubt it could happen.

This is what we have learned:

GET ALL THE LAUNDRY DONE

can't imagine dirty underware hanging from the trees..

MAKE SURE OUR 72 hr. KIT

is at the back door.
We actually have used ours...

note: **DO NOT PUT VIENNA SAUSAGES IN IT
unless you plan on eating them...

IN KANSAS---

We get the 'BASEMENT' BATHROOM READY:

its under the garage.. no windows...

This is where you'll find us buried if our house blows away...

MAKE SURE WE HAVE GASOLINE FOR THE GENERATOR INCASE WE HAVE NO POWER

can't live without the A/C

Full Tank of Gas in our vehicle

(just incase we try to get out of Dodge!)

CASH
(debit cards don't work with out power.

Even a clean house...

in case we get company. A tornado Party is eventful!

BRACE OURSELVES and

PRAY!

WE ARE READY!

P.S Prayers for the people in
Joblin, Mo

He will not leave us COMFORTLESS

2011-05-22T06:21:00.001-07:00

Tender Mercies of the Lord

Our latest Battle... Warning- Graffic

2011-05-21T18:20:00.000-07:00

Today

Friday

This is from his legs swelling, blistering and bursting. I promise he has been to the Doctor...He's getting treated. Back to wound care and elevation :( Now you know why I had a MELT DOWN!!!

FIONA THE FILTER IS such a WOMAN...

2011-05-20T21:40:00.000-07:00

TOP 10 (11) REASONS FIONA THE FILTER(THE DIALYSIS MACHINE)

IS A

WOMAN

11- She's HIGH MAINTENANCE!

(The supplies to run her are endless and very expensive)

10- She's VERY SENSITIVE

9- She requires TIME

(10 hrs every night of one on one time to be exact)

8- She requires FULL ATTENTION

(don't drift off to sleep, this is when she gets the annoyed)

7- She has BOOBS, if you don't get her bra on right she lets you know it!

(and she gets a break when its off!)

Her Bra!

Her boobs!

6- She has a TEMPER
(she sounds like an alarm clock. Screaming every 10 minutes...)

5- She weighs every minute. She's very sensitive to her scale...

4- She tells all, and she has a great memory...Nothing gets passed her.

3- She requires Loyalty.

She keeps strong ties!

2- At times she drains everything out of you!

1- Mr. Clark can't live without her!

(literally)

In the long run, he feels much better with her, than without her.

LOL!

For this we are THANKFUL!

Our Lesson in Sunday School.- "The Lost Sheep"

2011-05-15T15:58:00.000-07:00

This is my friends Grand daughter. A very touching story/picture. This artist is AMAZING a Modern Day Lost Sheep Portrayal here:

A melt down day!

2011-05-15T15:24:00.000-07:00

I am an open book... why I just don't keep things to myself? I don't know. It has been a good week/bad week. An emotional one too. Mr. Clark recieved news on Thursday that our pre-authorization at Kansas University Med to do his kidney/pancreas only included his kidney. Our insurance at KU med does not cover a pancreas. So we are back to square one. We have to make the decision now what to do. Mr. Clark wants to go for a pancreas along with the kidney because it will mean no more diabetes. This is his decision. So now we are deciding on different hospitals. Baylor Med is in Texas. Dallas or Houston? One of the best in the country. They have actually been the pioneer hospital in transplants. Any way our insurance covers both there.
We feel almost defeated at the moment. I'm sure it will get better. We know things happen for a reason. And we are humble.
Yet, this week... Mr Clark has been swelling up. We've decided that its too much salt. The swelling is new to us. On Friday, after fishing a few hours. He had to come home because his legs were too swolen to walk. We called the nurse. And did a manual cycle of dialysis. He was feeling better. He repeated fishing again on Saturday. Yes, he thought it was a one time thing to be swolen up. Nope. This time when he took off his socks, because of swelling... Apparently blisters formed from stretching the skin so much and caused his skin peel off with his socks. Mr. Clark didn't sleep worrying about it. Me, I just cried. After I composed myself, I called the on call nurse. It's normal :(
Today. A build up of concern this week has given me a MELT DOWN.... Cried all day. Of course, part of it has been that at church today it was amazingly spiritual along with concerning for personal reasons. My heart wants to break. And during Sunday School Mr. C had a low bloodsugar. Normally its not a big deal. I couldn't be brave today. I'm thinking I just need a day of crying. So I'll take it! And tomorrow will be a better day.
I vented. Guess thats why I blog... Thanks my friends/family for supporting me~ XO

HAPPY MOTHERS DAY!

2011-05-08T05:41:00.000-07:00

How I feel about my Mother here:
Hope your day is special today! XO
HAPPY MOTHERS DAY!