Nancy's Place

Time to retire this blog

2011-02-14T14:33:00.000-08:00

Back in 2006 I started this blog, I was reasonably faithful in blogging the first number of years but now, due to the effects of MS, it is time to retire my blog. It has already been months since I last did one, not because nothing exciting happens around here anymore but because it is getting more difficult.

The last year or so I have been steadily getting weaker, it all happens slowly that I'm not even really aware of it myself but, the other day Ben mentioned that he was having to help me more and more when I try to stand and I had to admit, reluctantly, that that is true. Also, after making a sald or folding the wash my hands/arms are to tired to do anything else.

Typing is also getting more and more difficult, I can type in short spurts but then my hands (only been able to use one finger on each hand for some time)beome to weak to only use the two fingers, as in, the other fingers won't stay up and they depress several keys I don't want depessed
and that makes more work than I can do.

So , this will be my last blog. I will now leave blogging to the younger ones, several of whom I enjoy reading, keep it up, it gives me great pleasure reading your blogs, something I can do besides book reading :o)

I leave you with some of our reading from this morning.

We have no power from God unless we live in the persuasion that we have none of our own (John Owen)

My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness 2 Cor. 12 :9

I am content, the Lord has richly blessed us.

Picture blog of our Coaldale Alberta trip

2010-11-10T15:26:00.000-08:00

Cara watching mom and siblings playing hockey.
Adam watching and Liam in net

Skateboarding Kids masterpieces

Having fun and doing all the yard cleanup. We were impressed how they stuck with it till it was all done, Owen particularly, never quit, great job !!

The trailer for coming out West for our 40th next year.:-)

Cara wondering if she should venture down those stairs.

Maybe not :-)

Gorgeous views on the way home again.

Told to post again :-) a short one he said!!

2010-09-25T12:03:00.000-07:00

Last night we babysat baby Aaron for a few hours. I had the privilege of feeding him. Took no more than about 10 minutes, he just guzzled it down. Then he pooped from stem to stern which grandpa was allowed to clean up :-) This morning Lindsey said we were hired because Aaron slept from just after 10 till 6 am and then again till 9:30. We still have the touch :-)

This past week was a wonderful time here in Vernon as we were able to witness the examination of candidate Arend Witten. Arend and Renae and baby Marni arrived heron Wednesday noon, he spent the rest of the day and early next morning studying.

At 9 am Thursday the exam process started with a sermon first, after passing that, the questioning started. In the morning there were at least 30 or more people in attendance, which was nice to see.

The questioning lasted till about 4pm with two breaks for coffee and Arend to relax a bit, and a good hour for lunch.It was so nice to be able to sit in on this whole process. It was pretty intense at times, but there was lighthearted points now and again as well.

I'm sure that for Arend the most intense time was waiting for the delegates to deliberate after the exam, even though we all knew that he had done marvelously. So, when they all came back in and it was announced that he had passed, there was a great amount of applause ! The fact that he won the Selles award for academic achievement at the theological college was apparent in the process.

How exciting for the church of Vernon to be able to be a part of the whole process. Arend will be ordained as minister of the word here in Vernon on Oct. 17 the Lord willing.

They left again Friday morning and hope to be back here again with their two children and possessions a few days before that. We look forward to having our 'own' minister again. The Lord heard our prayers.

The last long weekend we had Alex and Sarah and kids come up for four days. Here are a few pictures of the boys, Brynne got missed out this time :-(

Bens 28k hike in the Monashee's

2010-09-04T13:26:00.000-07:00

Thursday morning Ben left home at 7:45 to go do a hike in the Monashee mountains a 1 1/2 hr. away from here. He had told me not to start worrying till 7pm and to send out the troops if I had not heard from him by 7:30, but he expected to be home by 6. Uhh, 6 came and went, 6:30 came and went, 7 o''clock I phoned Lindsey, panicked. Okay, maybe I'd already phoned a few times by then :-) hey, he did say he figured he'd be home by 6 !! about 5 after 7 (I think it was more likely 7:30, but who's arguing :-) Ben phoned and said he'd be home in 3/4 of an hour. There is no cell service anywhere near where he was till he got to Cherryville and knowing I'd be worried he phoned as soon as he could.

He did a 28, yes you read that right, a 28k hike in 8 1/2,(oops) hours !! all those with me who think he's crazy say aye :-)!!! Needless to say, he loved it but did admit that 28k was his limit. He figured he'd be very sore the next day but he wasn't at all, he even worked 4 hours the day after the hike.
So, here are the pictures he took of the hike, one at 13k to prove he had really done it. The lake is Peters lake and I believe there's also a little Peters lake.

I didn't know till I looked it up today that you may encounter grizzly or black bears on this trail. Good thing I didn't know that. He didn't meet any tho.

The proof plus 2 more before he turned back

I put all this together while Ben is off to the farm fair, so it's all helter skelter and I'll probably hear it later :-)

This,that and whatever !!

2010-08-18T12:40:00.000-07:00

Baby Aaron B.
& parents & grandparents

Mabel Lake

It's been a while so I figured it's update time.

We've had a fairly busy summer with different people coming over and staying for a few days or weekend. Often, when we have a visiting minister for the Sunday, they stay over here for the weekend as we have the room downstairs where they have their own kitchinette for breakfast and lunch (they have supper with us) as well as private sitting area, plus, it's nicer than staying in a motel. This way we also get to meet some different people. We recently also had candidate W. and his wife and baby for 4 days. We had called him and are now awaiting his answer to our call this coming weekend. He will have to make a decision between Chatham and Vernon. As much as we hope he'll come here we know that it is in the Lords hand as to where he decides he is needed more.

Sharon and Erik were here at Mabel Lake last week. We went visiting there on Monday,Wednesday,Thursday and Friday. It's an hour drive each way but, except for Tuesday, the weather was perfect every day and we enjoyed our time visiting them immensely. Lindsey and Aaron came several times as well and as Art was off for two days, they also camped there then.

Thursday when we went there a massive wind storm came up suddenly. As we got close to the lake we could see major whitecaps on the lake, not a good sign. We immediately drove to the campsite in the hope that they were there, not so. We then went as close to the beach as we were able to get and Ben left me in the car and ran down to the beach to help them get their stuff together and get Art and Lindseys boat moored in a safe spot where it wouldn't get damaged or torn loose. Art and Erik were swimming and thinking it was no problem but when they saw how the boat was being violently slashed by the wind they realized they better come in to help their wives,who were quite worried and trying to get their attention.

Thankfully everything went well, the stuff was put in our car and the women and kids walked to the campsite while the men secured the boat.

We were there Friday as they all packed up and goodbyes were made. It was a great week and great to see them all again.

The cast came off my right ankle a few weeks ago. We were not sure whether or not I would still be able to use my leg for standing anymore as it had not been moved for over six weeks. The first several days Ben would do some exersizes with my legs, like just bending them up and down because my knees were very sore from lack of being used.

After several days I attempted to stand, fell into the chair right away
because of the knees still hurting,and no strength in the legs. But we persevered and after several days the knees didn't hurt anymore and I stood for a second or so. Now, a few weeks later, I am standing for several minutes, long enough for Ben to pull up my pants when dressing, and to do some side to side movements to strengthen the knees and legs. I have, a few times, done a quarter turn when Ben is hanging on to me but will probably not be doing that when he's not there as he worries I might fall then as that's what happened when I broke my ankle. No problem, we are so thankful that I have come this far as we did not really think that I would be able to stand again.

God is so good.

Henk and Jennys 50th anniversary in pictures

2010-07-07T11:16:00.001-07:00

This past Monday my sister and brother in law, Henk and Jenny celebrated their 50th anniversay. The dinner was at 5:30 at a golf club in Surrey. We left home at 10 am and arrived in Chilliwack by 2. We had made arrangements with a former neighbour in the complex we lived in, to have tea with them at 2. They, meanwhile, had also invited another couple and widow that we had often visited to join us. We spent a lovely 1 1/2 hour visiting with them.

From there we went and registered at the motel there. We decided to stay overnight in Chilliwack rather than Surrey so that we would be an hour closer to home again the next day. Henry and Janet, who came down with her parents, stayed at Ineke and Bens right down from where we were, and, as they were driving back with us, this was ideal.
Henk and Jenny
With their kids

Plus sibs and spouses. (Bertha and Haddy were there a week earlier)

Jenny and I

The dinner was lovely. All Henk and Jennys kids and grandkids came from far and near. Hanks brother and wife also came from Holland. We had a lovely time but had to head straight back home again Tuesday morning, so it was a very short but enjoyable visit :o)

Dave joined us at McD's for breakfast after wich he left again and we picked up the others and were off again by 10.

Were home again by 2 after dropping off H. and J. and picking up Licorice.

What a whirlwind trip. I was in bed by 8:30 last night. It was great though and worth every minute.

Don't know why the pictures are so lousy, they aren't in my album. Nor why the page won't line up, sorry :o(

Why not break an ankle for a change ?

2010-06-25T13:47:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow, three Sundays ago, Ben sat me up in bed so I could stand up and get in to the wheelchair. I got to the standing position holding the floor to ceiling poll, went to make the quarter turn to get in my wheelchair when my legs gave out, and down I went. It hurt tremendously and, upon looking down at my right ankle, I knew right away that it was broken from the odd angle it was in. Ben dressed me, put me on a blanket and brought me into the living room, at which time he then phoned the ambulance. Can't send your wife to the hospital in her nightgown now, can you ?

So, the ambulance came and off we went to the hospital for xrays. Yes, both bones were broken in the ankle. The difference between the right ankle breaking and the left one a number of years ago is that that one barely hurt at all and this one hurts a lot. Now, is that a good thing or not ? that time I had xrays when it happened and then again a week later at which time it was determined that I had to have an operation and 6 screws put in. But....it hardly hurt. This time it hurts a lot, even almost three weeks after the fact. I spent 5 days in the hospital during which time we had lots of fun with by blood sugar. I am type 2 diabetic but have never been on anything for it and also rarely check my blood sugar as my doctor here figures I don't have it anyway. Well....they decided to check it regularly in the hospital. One morning it was 2.4, a little low that :-) had to eat two honking big peppermint/chalk/sugar candy. Fine for the rest of the day. Next morning 1.5 ,eeks ,quick, eat four of these delicious (not) pieces of chalk and we'll check it again in 15 minutes. Fine the rest of the day. Haven't actually checked it once since coming home but figure the trauma to the body triggered the episodes. I also have a cold sore now, no cold, and my bottom plate has been hurting for a few days, all signs of trauma. I'm such a drama queen :o)

I have a boot cast on which Ben put on as soon as we determined it was broken. We had had to buy that when I broke the left leg, which we only used for the week before the operation. This time too, we are supposed to keep it on till when I have another xray next Wednesday. We pray the results this time will not be the same as the last time. So I figured that I'll put up with the pain and ingesting T3's if in the end I don't have to be operated on. I think we got our moneys worth out of this cast by now, don't you?

I've been told I'll get a nice light weight cast........hope that happens.
Anyone want a boot cast ? fits on either leg, and, as I've now broken both ankles I think I'm done with that.

Okay...... so the screws aren't in anymore and that ankle could break again.......
Think positive :o) :o) :o)

Have a wonderful Sunday everyone, I'm hoping I can go to church at least once.

Our trip to Coaldale, mostly in pictures

2010-06-10T14:41:00.000-07:00

Grandpa with Liam and Adam

Sweet little Cara Adam and Sharon

Bens hike in Waterton Park

Owens 8th birthday

Trying out Owens new kite.

Steve, Cecilia, Evan and little Emily in front of the nice house they're living in during Steves practicum.

A few days before we went to Coaldale I had to go to my first appointment at the MS clinic in Kelowna. We haven't gone for our appointments for a few years as there's nothing new anyway, but, as we hadn't gone here before, we decided to go meet my new doctor. Nothing new, of course, except that he said he would like me to take 4000IU of vitamin D daily. Today I had to go to my MD in town for a prescription refill and told him about the vitamin D I am now taking. He was taken aback at the amount prescribed which he said is a toxic amount normally. He decided that this must be what this MD describes for his MS patients but he wants me to do this for a month and then I have to go get tested to see how toxic I am !!!Stay away from me folks, I might just explode !!

Oma and opa's visit

2010-05-24T12:51:00.000-07:00

Last week Tuesday Bens' sister Zina and husband Dick drove mom and dad M. up to Vernon for a four day visit. The drive up here went well. They stopped in Chilliwack at Julie and Dave's for dads late morning dialysis, and then drove the rest of the way here. It all went very smoothly and they were happy to be able to come up here and see where we now live. They had been in Vernon once, several years ago, so there have been quite a few changes since then.

Mom had her 87th birthday while they were here, so the Vernon family members as well as Rolfina, Dicks sister and an old friend, came over to help celebrate the event.

Ben took dad out for a drive several times, which dad thoroughly enjoyed. Together they visited a few places and had some friends over here.
Ben was hoping to have the week off while they were here but his boss (my brother ) while cleaning his gutters, had the ladder he was standing on, slip sideways and Henry ended up breaking a hip when he landed and had to be operated on and have 3 pins put in his hip. This, of course, means that Henry is now incapacitated for the next 8 weeks (not so, he says :o) This meant that Ben now had to do a few hours work a day, but he was still able to take dad out for a while each day, so it worked out, no problem.
Dick and Zina stayed at Pete and Marilyns' while they were here and they drove mom and dad back again on Saturday. Their time here went very well with there not being any problems with the stairs,which they had thought would be a problem. Mom seems to be quite afraid of stairs but she motored up and down these with no problem at all. Their last night they were here, Ben told me that mom motoredup the stairs three times in less than 10 minutes, because she kept forgetting something. We think the excersise was really good for them as they actually seemed better when they left, than when they came. At Manoah they never take stairs, always the elevator, so this was good excersise for them. Most days here dad would either take my walker, or his cane, and go for a walk and stand by the fence across the street, watching the antics of the adult and baby marmots running around.

This past weekend, Vernon had the May long weekend here with 240 young people converging on Vernon this past Sunday from BC, Alberta and from Manitoba. Saturday was a bit iffy weather, but Sunday and today it's beautiful. We had to rent the Lutheran church a block away from our church but it all worked out great. Church was a bit different with services being at 1 and 4. Strange having lunch already before church, but it all worked out well.
Have a great week everyone.

Spoiled

2010-04-14T14:47:00.000-07:00

For several months now, by early afternoon, my right foot, particularly the heel, starts to burn, and I mean BURN, I constantly move my foot back and forth hoping to find some kind of relief from that horrible burning pain, but to no avail.

The other day Ben had to go to the doctor and I was squeezed in with him and asked (again) what the cause was and if there was anything that could be done about it. Again he told me, and the internet had as well, that it was an MS as well as diabetes (which he doesn't feel I have ) symptom. What to do about it ?? not really much of anything. If I take 1mg of vitamin B12,( I take 12mcg)it might help.
Right now I take 10 ml of amytriptilene an hour before bedtime, which is an antidepressant which is commonly used for MS patients, to help their body slow down to aid sleep. For actual depression you'd need waaaay more I was told when I first declined this way back when. But now the doctor says that to stop the burning in my foot I need to take at least 5times what I take of that medication !!! Right, I want to wheel myself around like a zombie and even then it's only a possibility that it will stop the burning.

So................anyone out there know anything about burning feet and what you can do to alleviate that ? I'm sure there must be people that don't have MS that could have burning feet ?

Other news :-)

Several weeks ago we were asked by ladies aide if we would like some help in the house for extra cleaning and so Ben said that would be appreciated very much.

So, this morning, three ladies came and cleaned the whole kitchen, pantry, windows, the fridge and then gave all three bathrooms a thorough cleaning, including the inside of the tanks !! Has anyone ever cleaned the inside of their tanks ?? well, three of us were dumbfounded to think that anyone would even consider looking inside the tank unless something went wrong. But, one of the ladies who does housecleaning for others, said that was something she always does, can't imagine why that would even be necessary. Fortunately, only one appeared to be excessively dirty and the other two were fine. Phew, will have to tell Ben to keep an eye on the inside of the toilet water tanks :-)

So, ladies, keep an eye on that, okay ? I'll be checking that next time I'm at your place. I suppose it does make some sense as I do remember once when we had problems with the chain breaking and when I tried to fix it, how slimy the inside wall of the tank was :-(. But it still didn't make me start scrubbing the tank.

Another no pictures blog :-)

2010-04-08T15:19:00.000-07:00

This week Cornerstone school in Lynden has their spring break so we have been blessed with a visit from John and Shona , along with Devon,Katrine, Emma, Ben and little smiley Claire. Okay, the others are smiley as well, but Claire just smiles all the time and with those cute chubby cheeks and sparkly eyes she's just so adorable. Okay, all the other grandkids, you guys are generally smiley as well but she happens to be the youngest one around right now, so, that makes her smiles special. (phew, covered my b... that time :-)

The family arrived on Tuesday afternoon and came up especially for dad/grandpa's 60th birthday, which was yesterday.

We've been thoroughly enjoying the visit with them and they thoroughly spoiled us by taking us out to Temptasians for dinner last night to celebrate.

It's a nice restaurant where you all sit around the table and the food ordered sits on a turntable in the middle and you take whatever you want from the menu you ordered as you turn the turntable. We were fortunate in that they had put us in a room all on our own which made it even more enjoyable and being at a round table we were all able to see, and hear everyone there. Art and Lindsey were of course there as well.

After finishing there we headed for home again with us stopping on the way to pick up an icecream cake from DQ.
Once home John and the kids went for the Wednesday family swim, Shona put Claire to bed and then we sat and enjoyed a visit with Henry and Janet as well as my sisters Haddy and Bertha who were here visiting from Alberta.

Today, John and Shona and kids are off doing a walk/hike out Kelowna way and then we've got a turkey dinner planned, the turkey was free with the last shopping trip, so, what better time to enjoy it than when you have a house full of people over. It'd be sitting in the freezer for a long time otherwise as it's a little big for just the two of us.

Sharon and Erik sent Ben a beautiful center piece with all orange,yellow and purple flowers along with the greenery, of course. It's gorgeous !
Pete and Chandra are sending several hiking books from this area and Art and Lindsey went all out with numerous different things (socks, tie, shirt, gift certificate to Valhalla , etc.) Lindsey said it had been at least 10 years since she's bought her dad something, so what better time than his 60th birthday to catch up?

John and Shona are leaving again for home tomorrow, so it will seem so quiet again for a few days :-( but we've really enjoyed the time together.

Sorry, as I said, no pictures, we forgot to take it last night :-(

Hmmm, excitement, what's that?

2010-03-31T11:07:00.000-07:00

I wrote the heading for this post yesterday and now I can't remember why I wrote that :-( , eeks, I must be getting old and forgetful.....true to both those statements :-)....and... my dear hubby is following closely in my wake as he hopes, the Lord willing, to hit the big 60 next week on the 7th. Finally he won't be able to bug me anymore about me being over 60 after all, something he does like to rub in now and again when I forget things.

Things have been going along at a pretty normal pace around here with Ben working an average of four to six hours a day with Henry.
With Ben being chairman in consistory and we not having a minister, he is always very busy with that as well. We have a lot of elders leading worship services so that in itself already keeps him busy, along with having to write the weekly bulletin and the twice monthly church news. Yep, he doesn't have time to get bored :-)

Last week we called Rev. DeB. from Dunnville On. He arrived here yesterday and will be leading the Good Friday service tomorrow. He's got a full two days with all the scheduled visits etc. happening while he is here. He leaves again Saturday, so a very busy time for him as well as for the consistory. He came by himself as it was a bit difficult for his wife to leave the children at this time. So, a very short visit. No, he's not staying here this time. I think I mentioned before that we would not be hosting a minister we called anymore because every time we had one staying here they always declined the call :-(. hee,hee, I must be superstitious or something :-) I just think that it would be nice for some other church members to also have an opportunity to host, so that's what's going to happen, it's actually only for one night. He'll be one tired man by the time he gets home again.

We haven't done anything spectacular the last little while, just the usual daily things along with the regular bible study and having visitors. Due to the church renovations we haven't had our usual seniors get togethers lately either as there is no kitchen at the moment. The parts of the church that is finished looks excellent with everything being updated with nice new colours, beige to browns, it looks o nice and fresh. It's amazing what a little paint will do to a place. Now for some new carpets or tiles which, I believe, is scheduled as well.

I've had a few falls over the last little while, one in our toilet room (room in our en suite which just has room for the toilet and my floor to ceiling pole) was turning to get into the wheelchair, so I was holding the pole but my legs weren't turning as I thought they were and down I went. As I was holding the pole I was able to not hit the floor to hard. Fortunately Ben was still at home and he rolled me on a blanket, pulled me to our bedroom and then got me on my knees and was able to throw me on the bed and then I could sit up and get back in the wheelchair. No bruises.

Tuesday, Ben brought me the walker so we could walk down the hall and back. He asked if I could do it and I felt confident that I could....NOT...we got down the hall, turned and started back .. the mind was willing but the body was weak :-( I was so sure I could do it, I feel strong enough to walk a mile but the legs don't agree with me. We got to the door and just like that I knew that I couldn't take another step, Ben put his bended knee behind me and I basically plunked down on that on my way to the floor. That way I didn't hit as hard as if I had fallen straight to the floor which means my backside isn't as sore as it would otherwise have been. My right leg in particular often does not want to cooperate anymore. My brain says it's moved but Ben tells me it isn't going anywhere. But... we still try to do a short walk whenever he thinks of it. You won't hear me suggesting it to quickly as it feels like I gotta climb a mountain and who wants to climb a mountain.

Many of you have often said how I appear and sound so upbeat and so I have to admit that that was not so last week. I had a very down, depressed week and poor Ben got the brunt of it. Of course I felt he was the cause of it with, I thought, his being gone so many evenings and me feeling sorry for myself because of it. Well, thankfully it only lasted a week and I am over it now and wonder myself why that happened because it really usually doesn't bother me that he has to do all these things and I fully support him in it. The only thing I can think of is that everything always seemed more rushed than usual and me having to wait till after 10 or later some evenings before he could put me to bed, I usually go around 9 and am in bed by 9:45, so then it's an hour or more later than normal.

So, folks, I do have my poor me, I'm so hard done by moments or days but, thankfully, they are few and far between. The Lord gives me and Ben the strength we need to deal with the circumstances he puts before us.

Enjoy the rest of the week everyone, I'm off to have lunch :-)

ps. Something I just remembered because it's burning right now :-( I have a new MS as well as diabetes symptom. By early afternoon, my feet, mainly the heels of my feet, start to burn and by bedtime they, especially the right foot, drive me, as well as Ben, crazy because I keep mentioning it and wishing I could do something about it and he keeps reminding me that I've already said that a 100 times that day :-)
I mentioned it to our doctor the last time we were there and he told me then it was an MS symptom and upon checking the internet (I didn't really believe him I guess) it was true, including that is was also a diabetes symptom but my doctor is also sending me in for some other test because he's not convinced that I have diabetes anymore, huh, never heard of anyone being cured of that. Haven't had the test yet but this will also determine whether or not my kidneys are functioning better, which I kind of doubt as I can often feel my right kidney. We'll see...

A blog.

2010-03-22T19:24:00.000-07:00

Wow, you're saying, Nancy's doing a blog at last.

About time you did a blog again don't you think?

Its been a while.

Great, something exciting to read again.

I was wondering if you were going to do a blog again.

I keep looking and there's nothing new here.

Lots of people don't seem to be blogging much these days.

What's the problem??

Who's asking me all these questions???

ME !!!

Yep, me, so this is my boring,

not in the mood

got nothing exciting to say,

aaaaand, no pictures,

blog :-)

Hope you enjoy it, ha, ha.

I'm off to have a coffee now, and yes, hubby's off to a meeting so I

gotta keep myself entertained.

Think I'll read with my coffee. Ahhh, I love quietness !

Your chuckle for the week

2010-02-26T10:45:00.000-08:00

Well, I wasn't chuckling last night and am more embarrassed than chuckling this morning as well but, can see how someone else might get a laugh out of my *gulp* mistake last night.

Ben had two visits to make last night, one just a quick one and then a regular one. I wasn't paying to much attention "obviously :-(" as I was watching the Olympic skating at the time. He came home shortly after the first one stating that it didn't go through because he had forgotten to confirm before hand. Then he went out the front door again.

I thought he had gone for a walk. By 9 o'clock I was ready to get myself ready for bed but Ben was not yet back from his walk. 9:30 I was starting to really get worried. I was in the en suite waiting for him , so I put my stuff back on and went out to see if the car was in the garage. Like maybe he had driven somewhere for his walk ?? he does that often, but not at night and it was totally dark now. Both cars were in the garage. Panic set in. Where did he go, did he fall and get hurt somewhere on the trail ?? I called his cell phone, it was answered and immediately turned off without anyone speaking ???? That did me in, I was imagining all kinds of things by this time. I finally phoned my brother Henry and in a panicked voice told him I couldn't find Ben anywhere. He told me he would phone his brother in law who was a member of the police auxillary and ask him what they should do. He phoned again a few minutes later and said Tom would call me shortly and they would set something up.

A few minutes later I get a call, I say hello......and Ben says, did you call earlier ??? Me....where are you?? I've been worried sick. Him...I'm on a homevisit....huh???

so.... I had to phone everyone that Ben had been found. I was mortified to say the least. I was so glad I hadn't phoned Lindsey instead of Henry because I knew she would have fallen apart had I told her that her dad was missing.

That's what happens when you're not paying attention when your husband is talking to you. Apparently when he came home and then left again, as he was leaving he said that his ride was here and then said goodbye. I heard none of that. :-( Hey, I was watching the Olympics after all :-)

I had known he was going with someone else to the visit but,obviously, totally forgot that and, when I saw that both cars were in the garage, I really panicked.

Yes, I still feel a little idiotic when I think about it but can qualify my reaction by admitting that I had also just had a very disturbing phone call from someone and I guess that had started this chain reaction of mine..

Ben wasn't exactly feeling sorry for me when I told him later when he came home. Like, maybe I should pay more attention to him when he's talking to me and less on the Olympics :-(

How can I forget something as important as my husband going out on a visit with someone.

Yes, I'm getting old....er :-)

Or..........

....... time to bring the straightjacket.

A pictureless post :-(

2010-02-17T10:44:00.000-08:00

Joy sent me the pics, so, now I can add them, thanks Joy :-)

Genoa wanted to sleep in the crib !! Tonisha and Licorice and Me.

Ben and the other three girls having a chat before bedtime.

Three weeks ago we had a lovely weekend visit with Joy and Tyler VanV. and their four lovely girls,Tonisha, Albany,Corday and Genoa. Don't you love those names? very unique and very nice.

They had been here for a few days last year as well and we enjoyed the time then also. This time, they totally spoiled us. Joy came with the fixings for all our evening meals and then proceeded to make them all. It was totally unexpected and a real treat, especially for Ben, who otherwise makes the meals. They had also brought along their own breakfast and lunches. By the time they left there wasn't any sign of any sort that they had been here. Work wise that is :-) BUT.. Tyler took a few pictures and promised he would send them so that I could post them here, and I'm still waiting Tyler. In case you don't have our email address, seeing as we've always done everything by phone, it is our surname @shaw.ca. No excuses now.

The following week Alex and Sarah with Lucas and Dylan came for five fun days. Again, pictures were taken, but not sent :-(

It is so nice to see the changes in kids as they grow up. Lucas and I had lots of giggles as we played a game together, his way as he's not quite at the age for understanding how some work. But, who cared, this was lots of fun. He's so much more fun as he gets older, feeling much more comfortable with grandpa and grandma. There was a "what are you doing grandpa or grandma" several times a day, so cute. He was so interested in everything going on around him. And little Dylan ?, well he was as cute as a button, and always walking around with a smile on his face.

We thoroughly enjoyed the time they were here and Ben enjoyed the help with the meals, cleanup aaand yummy desserts. LBS,LBS,LBS!!

So, that's been the excitement around here lately. Our friend Dave should be coming up for a while soon and then he and Ben will, no doubt, be doing some snowshoeing(if there's still snow) and taking some pictures. So, till next time. Sorry it's not more exciting :-)

Alberta and year end in Vernon with two families.

2010-01-11T16:33:00.000-08:00

Cara Brooke born November 23, we were there to see her and the family a few days later. How proud they all were. We were also able to witness her baptism before heading home again.

Cara gets many snuggles from all her siblings whenever mom lets them. Grandma reading to Liam. It's cute how all the others, though pretending not to, are sitting close by listening to the story they've heard how many times?

Devon at home playing a beautiful piece for us. Claire downstairs at our house at Christmas time when bothe the Alberta family and the Washington family were here. 10 kids and four adults besides us. Everyone had a place to sleep with no problem. Tw0 kingsize beds, a single bed a crib a pack and play and a few blowup beds and everyone had a place to crash.

In the kitchen eating or playing (lot's of eating!!)

Shona preparing stuff and kids waiting to eat it.

Had way more pics but this is all I'm downloading today

Ben says I have to do a blog !

2009-12-24T12:35:00.001-08:00

Yes, that's what he told me to do last night. It's time you do a blog again and make it short. Short !! and that from the king of short....NOT!

So, here I am, the 24th of December 2009 writing, what I hope will be a short blog.

First I would like to wish all my faithful readers a Blessed Christmas and a prosperous 2010. May you all receive what you need to live and serve Him in all faithfulness through 2010.

Our 2009 has been busy and also very enjoyable. My health has been reasonably stable. The hands still work reasonably well as long as I don't overuse them, as in blogging :-) cause then I can't fold the wash or dry dishes afterwards for several hours. Hubby doesn't fold wash and dish drying is not his favorite thing to do. That's something we can still enjoy doing together.

Ben was recently put on pillls for high blood pressure, something he knew would happen eventually as it has been at high/normal for several years and the doctor felt it was time to go on the pill. It's a family thing as his father is on them, his grandfather was and.....

So now we're both on the same pills his 5mg a day, mine 10 twice a day. His for blood pressure, mine for kidneys, same pill different conditions. Now that's what I call togetherness !!! Have you had your pill yet dear ?, yes, have you?

As I said, we've had a lot of company over the year. Just this past Sunday, someone in church said, you guys seem to have company all the time, we should call your place the Meerstra Hotel :-) We love it.

Ben, being vice in consistory, and our house being big, with a separate entrance to the basement as well as having a wetbar with sink, fridge, microwave, toaster, coffee maker, all ready for making breakfast and lunches, quickly offers them to stay here for the weekend or however long. That way we get ministers serving on our pulpit during our vacancy. There's a method to his madness.

We've had the R.C. Jan... family on their way to Abbotsford church where he was installed a few weeks later. They stayed for a week of holidays before going down.
The family Van Ral. on their way to Surrey church stayed for several days the weekend before heading down for his installation.

Then their were the two ministers and wives and youngest child that Vernon called. One stayed the weekend, then went on to London where he was also called. The other came for three days in the middle of the week. We've thoroughly enjoyed getting to know all these families but have decided that we're not offering our place again to a ministerial family that Vernon calls without first getting a positive commitment :-) Could be a little challenging , hee,hee :-)

We had a couple and their little son come from Holland for a week with plans to move here as soon as they sell their home in Holland. They had been in Vernon a few times already before we moved here. They were total strangers to us but great people and we look forward to them moving here in due time, maybe even staying here again till they find a place to live, right, Carina? (any kids of ours expecting, that's a very nice girls name !!)

We've had family over for weekends or longer, and friends, also for weekends (or day and a half :-(, longer next time Bernice and Darlene!!)

We've enjoyed every one of them and just want to let you know that Hotel Meerstra is open and running also in 2010,just give us a call and we'll pick you up from the airport or waiting at the door :-)

Tonight we hope to have Erik and Sharon and kiddies (they're on their way right now) Then on Monday we hope to see John and Shona and kiddies for a week as well. Sharon and Erik are in B.C. for a week and will spend time here as well as at Eriks family. Such fun, ten kids and four adults, yahoo!!! love it.

Time to quit now, took a 1/2 hour off for lunch but the hand is starting to shut down so it's resting time for it.

Uhhh, short ?? what's that ??

Enjoy the holidays all and the Lords rich blessing to you all in 2010. He has certainly richly blessed us in this, almost past, year.

Second week in Ontario

2009-10-24T12:55:00.001-07:00

Marsha and her parents.

I claim bragging rights !!

We spent our second week at Colin and Lauras' house. We had a wonderful time at both places and the sleeping arrangements worked great at both places.

Colin and Lauras' house and Colin and Silas mowing the lawn.

Playing sjoelbak (?sp) Fun in the leaves.

Helping mom bake and getting ready for dinner.

Some trails in the forest. Ben drove me through these so I could experience some of the fun the kids have going through them :o)

Silas and Bethany peaking through the hollow logs.

Our holiday went so well, both flights and the great time had at both places that we're already thinking.......maybe next year again??

For the record.....I am not taking the swine flu vaccine :o)

Ontario.....the first week

2009-10-22T15:34:00.000-07:00

Vanessa at ballet practice. Pictures are rather scattered but that's better than none :o)

Pete and Chandras' house, Vanessas' livestock :o)

School time and playing time.

Another cutie. Goofing around at thanksgiving time. Chandras' labour , yum!

Getting ready for thanksgiving dinner.

Thanksgiving dinner with both families.

Chilling after dinner.

Baby chicks, so many we had trouble counting how many chickens or chicks were there.

A wonderful few days

2009-09-28T20:59:00.000-07:00

So, I haven't been on here for some time as I just find it harder and harder to do the typing thingy. One finger typing gets a little slow after a while. But, I just felt like mentioning our past weekend.

We had received an invitation to a 6oth birthday party for Friday evening with a notice with it that it could also be an excuse to visit the parents. Ben decided that was a good reason to go to the coast. So, off we went Friday morning around 9:30. Went straight to Manoah to visit the inlaws for a few hours. On leaving we met Mrs. Huis... sitting outside in the sun so we sat down and chatted with her for a while and she informed us that it was her son in laws 60th birthday on Saturday and that we should go there as well. This is one remarkable lady, she recently broke her hip and had to be operated on and here, less than three weeks later, she's walking with a walker, and this lady is 92 years old!! She is the sweetest and happiest lady you'll ever meet. She is an example to all of us as to how we as Christians should conduct ourselves. Here she tells me how she's always so amazed at how I deal with my infirmity and I feel she puts me to shame with her wonderful attitude.

We got to Chilliwack for the party at the converted former pig barn (beautiful place, washrooms, kitchen, sitting area.. whatever) It was Nellie Ley....... 60th and there were up to a 100 people there from all over the valley including 2 more couples who came down from Vernon. Needless to say, we had a wonderful time, lots of food (no dieting this weekend!!) and loooots of chatting with people from all over that we haven't seen for some time.

I think we got to our hotel about 11. Got up in the morning and went to Langley for Albert Visc.... 60th birthday which was by invite and his MIL invited us :o) as soon as they saw us drive in, they came out to get us and said they would have been upset had they heard we'd been there and not visited. So we had a wonderful hour there also seeing some people we hadn't seen for a few years.

From there we headed to Alex and Sarah's to visit them for an hour. Then off to Chilliwack to see if Dave was home as he hadn't been there when we stopped in the night before. No luck, so off we went to Richard and Heather Aik... to wish Richard a happy birthday as well (so many bdays in Sept.!) Lo and behold while there Dave drove in to say happy bday as well, so we got to chat with him a bit as well.

We finally got away from there at close to two with not much time to spare because we had a dinner appointment with a friend at 5:30 in Kelowna. Got there a few minutes late but she was just ready when we went to pick her up, so that was good.

After dinner we finally headed back to Vernon, stopped at Art and Lindseys to wish Art a happy bday and to pick up Licorice. Finally got home and into bed by about 10pm. What a whirlwind two days but a very wonderful time.

Sunday we had two very good sermons read by two very good readers ! In the afternoon there was a coffee social for Bill and Polly TenBr....'s 40th anniversary. In the evening there was a potluck for the golden agers and a few extra invited guests.
Many of you will know Bill and Polly as they spent most of their married life in Ontario. This celebration was a very special one as a few short weeks ago we did not think it was going to happen anymore but the Lord was merciful and restored Bills health to the point that he was allowed to come out of the hospital for the afternoon and evening.

Bills health over the last few years has been very precarious, he has had numerous small heart attacks and has had an infection in his left foot for a long time that would not heal no matter what they did to it.
Finally the doctor said that the leg would need to be amputated ASAP so a few weeks ago it was amputated just below the knee. We went to visit him in Kelowna a few days later but he had just been taken in to ICU and Polly had been told to call the children to come right away. He had done very well for a day after the amputation but the poison from the infected leg was still damaging his kidneys and liver, plus he had had another heart attack. We talked to Polly yet and she told us that he was lucid at times and not so at others.

The kids all arrived to say their goodbyes to Bill, but the Lord had other plans for him and he suddenly started picking up and a few days later he was well enough, to the point that he could be transferred to the rehab facility at Vernon hospital for amputees where he will, in time, have a prosthesis fitted.

We had seen him in Kelowna hospital after he started picking up and couldn't believe how good he looked. He hadn't looked well for a long time already and now he looked so good again and even better the next time we saw him.
So, this Sunday potluck was extra special both for Bill and Polly and the congregation. They, certainly, and we all, witnessed and experienced the Lords mercy and rich blessings and we were certainly able to speak and sing about that that evening. What a beautiful thing to be a part of !

As Polly said when she thanked us all, the children were not able to come because they had come when Bill was so seriously ill in the hospital but we, the church family 'were' their family and they felt richly blessed. Not a few us us had tears in our eyes to have been witnesses of Gods goodness. A beautiful day.

This has taken me a few days to do but that works as well. Have a wonderful week all.

Picture story of Sharon & kids visit last week

2009-08-16T18:05:00.000-07:00

As I have more and more difficulty with my fingers trying to type, this will be short on words :o)

Liam and Adam
Liam Owen and Kayleigh having breakfast.

OKeefe Ranch, well worth visiting

Owen in school pictured

playing downstairs,Liam,Kayleigh,Adam

Checking the fish in pond.
Fun on back deck.

Went swimming twice with grandpa and aunt Lindsey

Playing cards with grandma Reading

Ben and I followed Sharon and kids as far as Revelstoke where we parted. We then went up Revelstoke mountain to see the meadows in bloom. It was still beautiful but due to the extreme tempertures we've had this summer, many of the flowers had burned up from the heat. Was a cold day that day though !

Do I look cold ??

Terrace Mountain fire.

2009-08-07T09:57:00.000-07:00

Ben took these pictures about 2 blocks from our place last night. Dozensof people were standing watching this massive fire about 25 to 30 kilometers away. The fire is now at 8,550 hectares with lots of homes evacuated. Want to see more/better pictures go to http://bcwildfire.ca. The white streaks don't belong on the pictures.

Trip to Smithers for Dave and Julie's wedding.

2009-08-04T19:45:00.000-07:00

Alex and Lucas reading by the fishpond taken the week they were here. It was a beautiful week and they were able to go to Kal beach everyday.
A stop on the way home again.

A lovely visit/barbeque at Henry and Anne P.,Larry and Jenny W. were also there as well as Haine and Chris P. who were visiting from Ontario and Jayne was back from New Zealand/ Australia after being away for 15 (20?) years. She and I had loooots of catching up to do ! Boy, did we talk!!

The wedding! The beautiful bride.

The out of town guests, as well as the bridal party, had a lovely dinner in the newly cleaned out and painted workshop. (this was the only section that you couldn't see that :-( )

Ben's pictures taken from a distance. Was a lovely setting in the hayfield.

Dave and Julie after the ceremony.

Farewell barbeque and flowers

2009-07-20T12:16:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday we had a church farewell barbecue after which we went inside for the farewell evening. The barbecue was from 5-7. a good thing because Rev.M and Rev. S.( camping with the M.'s) came late as they had to go pick up the M.'s trailer which was stranded somewhere because the vehicle pulling it fried the transmission en route :o( This vehicle is supposed to pull the trailer across Canada when they move there in a few weeks. Hmm, new vehicle or new transmission ?? I thought there were some inside pictures but I'm guessing they didn't turn out as this is all I can find downloaded.

Somehow I remember another time or two when there was vehicle problems while on holiday. And this from a man that used to work in a garage way back when. :o) (just had to put that in :o)

They arrived in plenty of time to still enjoy all the good food and fellowship with the people who were there. It had been about 37* all day but was just perfect by 5:30, when we arrived.

The farewell afterwards was very enjoyable with plenty of laughs. We are going to miss you/them :o(

They are still going to be camping in the area for a few weeks and he will be our 'guest' minister one Sunday during that time as well :o)

These beautiful flowers are close to our fishpond. Seems another one comes up fairly often as there are about 6 right now. Anyone know what they are ??

A lovely visit with Shona and kids & a few random.

2009-07-03T11:05:00.000-07:00

This past Monday, Shona and the kids drove up for a visit with us as John was on a business trip to Washington D.C. (Having lunch with Obama, John?)

It was warm enough to go swimming in Kal lake a few times (a little chilly they said, but nice) and they went boating with aunt Lindsey and uncle Art.
Ben loved playing with his light sabres. Claire was such a cutie with those adorable pinchable cheeks !

Shona having breakfast after her 50 minute run. A little more strenuous here with all our hills she said. Feeding Claire. Notice how much Shona sweats on those runs, a real workout those !

Katrine reading their favorite books when here.

6 foot 3 giant Devon takes after his father.

Emma with Claire and Ben reading on the couch.

Gramma cuddling Claire. The only time I held her as she is one squirmly wormly and we were afraid I'd not be able to hold her. She sat still for at least 10 minutes I'd say. She's a doll.

And......they're off again Thursday morning. See you in Osoyos soon!

Ever heard of a bee crossing :o) Our fish pond on side of house.

A few pictures at Henry and Janets when Alex,Bethany and Jordan were here. Yolanda and Haddy were at Henry and Janets at the time as well.
Jodan in car. Alex,Yolanda with baby, Janet. Bethany,Henry,Alex & Janet. Haddy beside me.

A busy but nice weekend

2009-06-26T12:17:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we had a lovely visit with Dick and Joanne B. and 5 of their kids. It was a lovely time reconnecting after several years of not seeing each other.

They arrived Saturday afternoon a few hours after Ben and Dave were home from their 4hour hike.

They pulled in with their 40ft fifth wheel which nicely fit behind our garage. They had their two youngest, Josiah and Jessica with them. Two hours later Amy, Caleb and Morgan also drove in. The three oldest stayed in the house with us. Hard to believe, but the trailer doesn't have room for that many.

We had a fabulous time with lots of chatting, sometimes all together, other times the men in one room and we women in the office.

They had lunch with us on Sunday but for the other meals they ate on their own. They spoiled us with bringing in strawberry shortcake a few times as well. Not much dieting happening that weekend.

(Felicia)Amy and the boys left very early Monday morning but Dick and Joanne decided to stay till Tuesday morning so they could visit with Dicks' brother and family yet.

In the evening they took us and Henry and Janet out for supper to Temptasians, our newest restaurant in town. We hadn't been there yet but will certainly be going again.

They left again Tuesday morning at 5:30 am before any of us were up.

It was a lovely visit and I'm sure that now we've reconnected that we'll be visiting again. Ben's talking of going to Grande Prairie...........I'm ready for a holiday !

All the food went on the turntable in the middle of the table,just turn it and take what you want.

Saturday or Monday, Shona and kids will be coming for a few days while John's off working. Looking forward to that.

Sorry Tamara, we didn't take pictures when the older kids were here and I stole these from Joannes pictures on facebook :o)

A special evening

2009-06-19T11:59:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was our 38th anniversary and we had plans to go out for dinner. I emailed the restaurant and told them we were coming and that I was interested in making it special for my husband because of my condition, short of feeding me, he had to do everything for me and I really waned this to be special for him. Could they help me out with this, like doing a song or......I wasn't sure, but I thought that when someone comes for their birthday that they had the staff sing, so maybe they had, or could think of something for an anniversary. Long shot, I know, but it was worth a try.

I got an email back that, yes, they would take care of making sure Ben felt special, what time were we coming?

We got there around 6:15 and the parking lot was full. Oh,oh ! Ben gets out of the car and heads to the door (He didn't know I called,of course) to see how full it was. I opened my window and says,It's okay Ben,they know we're coming. " they do, you don't have to make reservation's here" me " I know, but, I just wanted to make sure, so I called"

We went in and the girl at the desk knew right away who we were and escorted us to a table with a reserved sign on it. Ben was somewhat surprised to see that :o) Then along comes the waitress we were scheduled to have, with a big, beautiful bouquet of flowers. Now I was surprised, thinking Ben must have phoned as well and ordered the flowers. But he was as surprised as I was and told me, no, he had not called them. So this was a beautiful surprise for both of us. I guess it's kind of hard to do something specifically for the male, so flowers works well for both ! And no, they didn't sing.

We really enjoyed the meal and the service was, of course, superb ! Our waitress made sure we had everything we needed. There were two other tables close to us with ladies from church enjoying a dinner as well (popular place!) they, of course, had to find out what this was all about and came and chatted and congratulate us.

We weren't able to stay too long as Ben had a meeting to go to, but it was really lovely.
When we went to pay they had given us the senior discount as well and Ben quickly informed her that we were not seniors upon which she said,"I know that" this is our way to congratulate you as well. Yes, we were certainly made to feel special.
When I got home Dave T. (visiting for a week or so)had coffee all ready to go for us.

Just before Ben had come home from work we had a very unexpected visit from John and Dirkje K. from Ontario. They'd been away from home for quite some time and decided to also visit with us as they were heading to Kelowna and then to the coast. We hadn't seen them for several years and so this too was a lovely surprise.

So, all in all a fabulous day. God has been and continues to be our help and guide through good times and bad all our days. To him be all praise.

A pleasant weekend

2009-06-10T15:08:00.000-07:00

Last week Friday we had Alex,Bethany and Jordan B. (Dick and Joanne B.'s oldest) over for the weekend.

Alex had facebooked me and asked if they could come over on their way to Portland Oregon where they were visiting Bethany's family. Of course we said yes,although we really didn't know each other. Ben and I had been invited, and went to their wedding in Oregon three years ago, the fist time we met Bethany and also the first time in many years since we had seen Alex.

They arrived Friday evening and stayed till 7am Monday morning and will be staying with us again in a few weeks when they go back to Grande Prairie.

We had a fantastic time together. Were already feeling comfortable with each other by the time we went to bed that first night. Bethany and I chuckled about how apprehensive we each felt about their coming over and how much we enjoyed each others company.

One of the reasons she was apprehensive was because they do not go to the Can.Ref. church and she was so afraid that uncle Ben and Alex would have a major argument about that. I assured her that that wouldn't happen and it didn't. The men spent hours discussing/debating the issues, particularly paedo communion to which the CREC church subscribes to. Anyone know Jamie Soles, the singer? he goes there as well.
I am not in any way endorsing this church and haven't heard any Jamie Soles songs and don't know if I like them or not. I just thought some people may have heard of this confederation and might want to read about it so that they too can discuss/refute some of their teachings if/when they come across them.

Saturday morning we went to Henry and Janets for coffee because Yolanda was also down from Grande Prairie with three of her kids and my sister Heddy who they had picked up in Neerlandia. So we got to see lots of out of town family.
Saturday for supper,Bethany had asked if she could do supper and of course I said,go for it. She made a delicious corn casserole with chicken on the side and a peach crumble for dessert. It was all very tasty and it was an easy to do recipe that Ben will definitely be making for us from time to time.

Sunday they came to church with us. They do not yet have a nursery in their church, so take the little ones in church which they did here as well. Jordan is an 18 month little boy, very well behaved but you can't and don't expect an 18 month old to be quiet in church. They sat in the very back row with me so he didn't disturb anyone behind us and I really don't think he was too bad. Yolanda had her 7 month and 3 year old in church as well. They did pretty good as well, I think the 7 month old slept so that was good. It's something we're not used to but it is doable.

Sunday evening They all came over here for coffee and after they left, though we kept saying we were going to bed, we just kept procrastinating as we were really enjoying ourselves.

They left again on Monday at 7am for Oregon where they are visiting Bethanys' family and going to a bible camp and then staying here again on there way back to Grande Prairie. They have to come back cause they left some stuff here which they need.

We're looking forward to that. Dick and Joanne will be here for a few days as well sometime in the next month.

Pictures at last. Very random of trip to Coaldale.

2009-06-05T10:53:00.000-07:00

I've been feeling under the weather for about a week but am back to normal again( oh, really, what's normal??? :o))
This blog has taken me forever as I'm having more and more trouble controlling my fingers and keep hitting things I don't mean to hit, so annoying, so I ain't writing too much !

Helping grandpa do yard work.

The nice backyard play set.

We also spent an afternoon(?) at Fort Whoop up. Lots to see.

Oh, the fun we can have plying cars on grandmas' aluminum wheelchair channels to get to the kitchen with.

Kayleigh, on the porch, chatting with grandma.
The family helping Owen put together his 300 piece puzzle.
Liam putting together his puzzle. Grandpa and grandma bought all the kids puzzles.

These were by the lake, true kid magnets !

We took a long walk around a beautiful lake by Lethbridge, can't remember the name.

Liam climbing the hill at the soccer field. Owen playing goal in soccer, he played defense later.

Been there, come back....flu :o(

2009-05-29T09:53:00.000-07:00

Last week Friday we headed to Coaldale for a long overdue visit. Came back late Wednesday afternoon. Had a lovely time, took lots of pictures but you'll have to wait till I get over whatever I picked up holding poor little Adam who was sick pretty well the whole time we were there. All he wanted was to be held, which grandma obligingly did. I haven't had the flu for many years and didn't see any reason why that would change just because I cuddled with the little cutie. Kayliegh had the flu as well and had some major projectile vomitibg, poor kid. Sometimes during a few hours of the day she'd feel well enough to play outside but then.....
We're supposed to go to a wedding at 11:30 this morning. Ain't gonna happen :o(

Adam snuggling with grandma.
Beautiful sunset we don't see here in Vernon.

More pics (lots) next week.

Fireproof..................the movie

2009-05-13T11:39:00.000-07:00

What, you're asking, she's recommending a movie?? What's up with that?

Yes, I am, no, to be exact, WE are. I had seen this movie at home already when hubby was working and had told him how I liked it and he should see it as well. Didn't happen. Then, a few days ago, someone, who knew Ben hadn't seen it yet, gave us tickets to a showing here at the performing arts centre. Tickets were given out by a church here in Vernon and it was great to watch it together this time. It is a christian movie and we highly recommend it to all families, older children and couples in particular.

As I said, it is a christian movie (not too much religion but the gospel message certainly comes out Ben says) I cried in parts the first time I saw it and did again this time. My sensitive husband was wiping his eyes from time to time as well and he said I could mention that he, after almost 38 years of marriage, still came away with things learned. We should never stop learning and a film like this one certainly reinforces this.

This morning I ordered the movie and the love/dare book that you can buy to go with it from focus on the family. I understand you can get both at christian book stores as well.

Anyone living in Vernon reading this, is welcome to borrow them from us (when it comes)

This movie is highly recommended by both of us.

Clebrating dad and moms 60th anniversary

2009-05-11T14:36:00.000-07:00

May 6th. The big day has finally arrived and mom and dads nerves are at there peak !! Thankfully, everything fell in place, the open house was a big success with lots of people and lots of food ( be sure there's lots of food having been stressed several times by dad :o)

Dick and Zina as well as Derek and Steph with Katie drove down from Smithers for the event. Also John's mom,( omas' cousin by marriage.( I seem to have a brain to hand dissconect on this one, it's omas' cousin, not opa's which I've said twice now :o() flew down from Smithers and their good friends and former neighbours in Smithers (the VanderG.'s), also drove down, which we kept as a surprise for mom and dad. As with probably many older people when it comes to these kinds of events, there were way more people then they had expected. They enjoyed it immensely.

After the open house the tables were put into a more cosy circle and the family, plus the special out of town guests, enjoyed a delicious dinner. Fred and MaryKay with Nick, Andrea and Kevin, who several of us don't see often, were all there as well, so we were able to do some catching up with them.
The couple were then presented with the gift from the kids, a 15inch digital photo frame where Julie had downloaded all the pictures sent in from all the kids and their kids and grand kids (great grand kids) which we had asked them all to send in earlier. We weren't able to view them at the time as mom and dad couldn't sit still long enough to absorb all the goings on. Ben spoke to mom this morning and they have now seen the pictures and know how to work it all. Plus, she told Ben that they are still receiving cards in the mail and together with the ones they received at the open house, they have over 100, they're overwhelmed and will be looking at them for a long time to come.

The happy couple
The couple, plus their kids and spouses. The couple and their kids.

Opening the gift and Julie showing them what it is.

It was also Emma's 10th birthday and we had her stand on a chair so we could sing to her. Picture turned out to dark, sorry, but here's one of Emma sitting conversing with cousin Lucas. I'll bet you Lucas is explaining the mischief he's planning on next!!! He's such a card !
Just two pictures during the dinner.

The last few weeks

2009-04-22T12:23:00.000-07:00

The last number of weeks we've had a lot of company here and thoroughly enjoyed it. Unfortunately we didn't always take pictures of everyone.
Spring break we had Roel and Dianne with Fiona and Monique. Actually, when they were here I said we needed to take a picture which Dianne promptly did, on her camera, duh,me!!!

Then Dave was here for a full week.

The next week, Easter weekend, John and Shona and kids, as well as Alex and Sarah and boys were up for the weekend. This past week, from Wednesday till Saturday, Sharon and kids were here for the Alberta spring break.

Here's some pictures. In the wrong order of course, with me putting the oldest ones first instead of last :o(

Here's Owen, on his hike up the hill behind our house with grandpa, I think they want to make this a regular trek when they come here. This was their second time.

Pointing out granpa and grandmas house down the hill beside the house with the red roof. We were sitting/standing, either here in the office, or outside, waving up at them.

Kalamalka lake from up there.

Ben, grandma with Claire and Emma on chair. Grandpa says Claire has little cabbage patch doll cheeks :o) They're sooooo pinchable!!
You can really see the cheeks where she's sitting on aunt Lindsey's lap. Ben,Emma and Dylan

Aunt Lindsey walking Zeus,Alex and Sarah's dog and Cooper, her and Arts dog. They, along with our dog Licorice and 7 children in the house, made for a pretty noisy household :o)

Alex and Sarah cuddling :o) Lucas and Dylan sharing a laugh.

Wanna join this zoo?

2009-04-10T17:39:00.001-07:00

Erik and Sharon with four kids, Alex and Sarah with two kids plus Zues, the dog. Art and Lindsey, plus Cooper, the dog. Us, plus Licorice, the dog.

John and Shona on the way up with five kids, plus Coco, the dog ???He's just a maybe.

Ahh, it's fun, even with the yapping dogs. Think I'll be in bed by nine though !!

Grandpa's making spagetti with ceasar salad and garlic bread for supper.

Anyone wanna join this zoo??

It's nice to have a big house!

Out and about

2009-04-09T10:33:00.001-07:00

Last week Friday morning we headed back to Chilliwack with a trailer to close the deal on our house and pick up the last of the furniture. Here we are on the Coq. where there was still a fair bit of snow in different places. The road was mostly clear but they had had snow during the night. Coming back on Saturday , the road was totally clear and dry and it was beautiful and sunny. So, now when we go down we'll be staying in motels again.

We had a lovely time while we were there visiting with Ben and Ineke and getting together with our old neighbours. We'll miss them. It was a very busy time all in all with Dave coming Saturday morning after our breakfast with the neighbours, to help load the furniture. The king size bed had to go in the trailer first so they couldn't put anything in the night before. After loading we said goodbye to Dave and we headed to sure slim for what we hoped would be the 100lb. loss weighin. Wasn't to be :o( that last 10 lbs is taking forever with 3 still to go. I'm happy where I'm at but that 100 just seems like the magic number for me. Shelley said she has my full page add for the local newspaper all ready to go, she just needs Ben to take the final picture. But we're waiting for that # first!

Dave visited us the week before we went to the coast for our final move. As Ben has been working with Henry, Dave was on his own till Ben came home. Most mornings he'd go for a few hours walk and go for another walk or drive in the aft. The rest of the time we did lots of coffee drinking and chatting till Ben came home.

Fortunately for them, it snowed on Thursday, just a bit, but enough to halt the pruning. So Ben took the day off and he and Dave had their final day doing what they like best. Snowshoeing up at Sovereign Lakes where they had had a good dump of snow the night before.

April 2nd and it's snowing???

2009-04-02T10:25:00.000-07:00

Yep it's snowing right now. Started during the night sometime but didn't really stick till just a little while ago. Still looks pretty wet but it's snow.

Dave T. has been here since last Saturday but because Ben's working 5-7 hours every day Dave has been out and about going for long walks by himself, and keeping me company the rest of the time. Today though, because of it's snowing, Ben's not working till later today,(if it stops snowing) so the two of them are out snowshoeing up on Silver Star which got a major dump of snow over the last few days. They were like two kids with a candy bar, soooo excited to go. I'm glad they got at least one day out doing one of their favorite things.

After 10 long months of having our Chilliwack home on the market, it finally sold. We certainly needed to exercise a lot of patience during this time. The market downturn here has been tremendous and especially in Chilliwack where the house building was far to heavy and new prices went down drastically so they went before many of the slightly older ones. But, it sold, which we're very thankful for. It actually sold quickly with just over a weeks time from sale to possession. So, within a week we'll be going down to sign, pick up the rest of our furniture, weighing in for the last time and permanently settling in here in Vernon.

Yesterday we had two phone calls from two of our neighbours down there. The first one wants us over for an evening with two other couples we always visited back and forth with, so we can have a proper goodbye. The other one phoned a few hours later and wants us to come over for breakfast the next morning before we head back here. Ahhh,why can't we just sneak away???? we don't like making these teary goodbyes!! But then, they know we're leaving so, it wouldn't be nice to just up and do that without proper farewells. Yes, it'll be tough but also nice to finally have that monkey off our back :o) And the people? We'll still keep in phone contact with them. I DON"T LIKE GOODBYES!!!

Ben's exam?? He got 88%(excellent for a first timer)so he has a 5 year certificate. The certificate came already so he's able to both prune tree's and spray them. He's loving the outside work in spite of being all scratched up from the pruning.

When he came home from the exam he said he was just to old for this kind of thing anymore,studying and exams were for the younger generation. He,he, my hubby's getting old!!

A new week

2009-03-25T11:44:00.000-07:00

So, Ben finished his pesticide course last week, with the 3 hour exam being on Friday. It'll be three to four weeks before he gets the results, unfortunately, because Henry wants to start spraying.....uhh, sooner rather than later, so, hopefully the results won't take that long. Ben felt he did alright on the exam and now we wait to find out whether he gets a two or five year certificate.

Meantime, this past Saturday, he also took a four hour pruning course here in Vernon and is now working with Henry, pruning, mostly fruit trees I believe, for 5 or 6 hours per day all over Vernon. He's quite enjoying it in spite of lots of scratches and cuts all over his hands and arms and me forever suggesting he washes his hands, which he keeps telling me is clean dirt (anyone ever hear of dirt being clean???) That dirt (?) gets ingrained and at this point just doesn't wash off so, I just gotta close my eyes to it !!

I don't know how many contracts Henry has for this so no idea how long he'll be working, but, if his certificate comes soon enough, he'll than start helping with spraying.

How do I keep from getting bored? I don't know, but, I'm never bored, I have no problem spending time alone at all. This week, so far, he's been coming home between 3-3:30 and and I'm generally surprised at it already being that late.

This past Saturday we were informed that our minister had accepted the call to Owen Sound. Thankfully, most all of us heard it before the Sunday so it was not a major shock/surprise for us. Needless to say, there was no clapping done, which, I understand, happened the last time when he declined the call to wherever it was at that time.
We will miss them and wish them strength for the task while still here (many months I hope:o) and when they arrive in Owen Sound.

I think we'll move back to Chilliwack :o) (jj!!)

Feeling good and doing good

2009-03-16T14:13:00.000-07:00

Ben's off to Kelowna. He got me up at 7am, I was able to do everything I needed to do, a little more hesitant than a few days ago but,I can do it, for which I am very thankful. Yesterday we tried the walking again and I actually did about 30 ft !! Whoohoo! Ben read my last blog yesterday and insisted that I needed to explain to everyone about my walking. So, okay, I walk with a walker and him hanging on to me at the same time. He has a habit now and again to hang on to the waist of my pants rather then my arm or around my waist. I'm not impressed with the resultant wedgie that gives him a chuckle!! So, that's my 'walking' I'm not just getting up and taking off !

I'm getting lots of company this week as a few people at church yesterday knew about Ben being gone from 8:30 - 4:30 most days this week and said they'd come for a visit.(ladies) Then, last night, my brother Henry (who Ben is taking the course for) told me that he and Janet would be over to check on me as well as that he'd told his daughters to check on me as well. Ahh, it's nice to be loved, as Lindsey said when I told her that !!

We saw three more deer across the street yesterday. Must be time for babies and it's safer up the hill behind us. Ben walked up there last night and saw them up there. Maybe he'll be able to get some pictures of babies when that happens.

For those of you who always say I'm so positive, did you notice that my last post was not so positive ?? I do have bad days and down times you know but the Lord does see me through those. So don't think I'm always positive, I'm not :o(

Sping has sprung

2009-03-14T19:45:00.001-07:00

This afternoon I was gazing out the front window looking at our neighbours across the street and suddenly I saw some deer running down their verrrry long driveway, and another and another and...... Ben grabbed the camera and went to the back deck to watch them cross the street and head up the path of the hill behind us to their summer quarters. 14 of them all together. A beautiful site and a sure sign of spring, never mind that there is still a foot of snow in the field across the street, there's none on the hill behind us.

Yesterday I woke up and I couldn't get out of bed. Ben had to get me up at which time I was able to hold on to the pole but was totally unable to make the quarter turn to get into the wheelchair. Walking later ?, no more than three feet.

Today is a bit better, about 8 ft. walking and being able to shuffle slightly. Am so tired, weird that as I have nothing to be tired for.

Coming Monday Ben is going to a course in Kelowna for pesticide control and will be there three days from 8:30 am till 4pm. He was doing a 3 hour mock exam at home today. Nerve wracking!

I pray I'll be able to handle being on my own by then.

A beautiful.......moon rise.

2009-03-11T20:40:00.000-07:00

These were taken last night around 7pm and then an hour or so later. It was beautiful sitting and watching it rise from behind the hills in the distance.

In case antone is wondering, I've dutifully walked every day. Sometimes 3 times but mostly only twice but each time has been at least 40 - 60 feet rather than the usual 20. From the fridge in the kitchen to the end of the hall and back again. 'phew' hard work that but hubby won't let me have my coffee till we've done the walk :o) good way to remember!

Who's daughter am I ???????

2009-03-02T19:33:00.001-08:00

Strange question isn't it?, but believe me, ya gotta wonder !!!
The last time I was at the doctors he wanted me to have a bone density test done as he figured I was a prime candidate for osteoporosis, mainly because of not walking anymore.

I was a little concerned about the visit as I figured it was about my damaged kidneys since it had been about three months since I was on the double dose of ramipril and he had said that I needed testing every three months.

Wasn't about my kidneys, though he did send me in for another test (hopefully not another call in a few days) I'm starting to feel like a pincushion :o) !!

So, what did he tell me ?? You guessed it......osteoporosis !! I never knew you could have osteo in one place but not another but,apparently you can. He showed us the test results and my spine is fine, no problem there, but my hips are at the lowest level of calcium or whatever you're supposed to have and he's worried about me falling and breaking a hip.

So, what do I have to do??,I told him I didn't want any more pills :o), so I have to take big doses of vitamin D and calcium (at least these are natural) Plus....I have to walk, not just once a week but several times a day !!! and not around corners anymore but just straight stretches for my usual 20 feet or so. Huhh? three or more times a day?? are you kidding?? I try so hard to make Ben forget that I need to do this because it is so much work for me and now you want me do do it three or more times a day ??? arghh, where can I find another doctor ???:o)

So, the fun has begun, I've done it twice today already and when he brought me the walker the third time he said maybe I"d better not cause then I might be too sore to do it three times tomorrow :o) My husband just likes to torture me, all in the name of medicine !!

So, why am I wondering who's daughter I am? well, my father in law has kidney damage and my mother in law has osteoporosis.

I'm beginning to think you can acquire these things simply by association, never mind birth :o). I'm associated with the wrong family!!!

Some better pictures, for Lindsey :o)

2009-02-17T14:29:00.000-08:00

At least the sun is shining ! Sorry about the tongue between the teeth but that's what I do when scared I'm gonna fall :o)

Just for comparison, check this blog post for before and mid-point pictures.

A trip to the coast

2009-02-16T17:22:00.000-08:00

Last week Wednesday we went to the coast for opa's 87th birthday. We stayed till Saturday. Did lot's of visiting, like morning, afternoon and evening,exhausting but very enjoyable.

Manoah Manor--dad-opa's 87th party

dad and mom with Claire D., their youngest great grandchild. She was a hit with all the older ladies, some of whom had to hold her!

While there we also went for a weigh in which was a big disapointment as I had only lost a half a pound in the last 8 weeks. We figured I must have hit the end. So, here's me at 95lbs lost. I had hoped to hit the 100 lb. a magic # in my book! I'll still try for another month before I'll go on the maintenance, or lifestye as they call it. Standing was a real chore especially when I noticed Ben had put my wheelchair out of sight. My legs were just shaking!

This and that

2009-02-09T19:54:00.000-08:00

It's been a while, so I figured I'd dredge up something for a post :o)
The last few weeks we've done some visiting and had visitors as well as going to society, the normal weekly events.

A few weeks ago my glasses broke so last week we went in and ordered two new pair. Finally I have a spare pair of glasses!
The nice thing about these glasses is that, I do not have to cover one eye when reading anymore !! I decided that, now that I don't walk anymore, I could try bi-focals again. Wow, I can read through the bi-focals without the words jumping all over the place and no covering one eye. It's just great ! Nice glasses to, with designs on the side, getting up to date!!

This morning my occupational therapist with two salesmen, came to figure out what I needed for my wheelchair. She had said a while back that she didn't like how I was sitting in my wheelchair and needed more support.

Incredible what these guys do ! They took the back off my chair and installed a back more contoured for me with us being able to pump it up in the back or either side for comfort. Then they put a much thicker contoured seat in, leveled to exactly where I need it according to the length of my legs. Then they took off the wheels and made the chair tilt back slightly as Brenda didn't like how I was starting to slump, so now I sit slightly angled back. They put the wheels back on differently as well, can't remember how exactly but it was all a fascinating thing to watch how they pretty near took the wheelchair apart and remade it to suit my needs. The one thing I need to do now though is have the wheelchair feet on with my feet on them rather than me just letting my feet drag on the floor as that is now uncomfortable but makes the OT happy because she didn't like me not having the feet on the wheelchair.

So now what, am I a happy, satisfied customer ???? I don't know yet, Brenda had told us not to buy one right away but to try it out for a few days as they have many different types to try and you need to try them a few days before you decide which one you want to buy. They even have one called the Matrix !!! may have to go with that to match our car. She'll be back on Monday.

So, how does it all feel ? Couldn't figure out why we'd want something different, but after a few hours my back isn't feeling so great anymore and we'll definitely be trying a few different ones before we decide. We don't know the cost of all this stuff but like any thing else related to wheelchairs it won't be cheap so we'll certainly be trying several before we get the perfect one.

A busy but 'gezellig' week

2009-01-26T11:30:00.000-08:00

This past week, from Wednesday, we had Tyler and Joy Van V. and their four girls stay with us till Sunday. Tyler's brother Kent and fiancee Sara were getting married on Saturday so they decided to take the girls out of school and come a few days early.

We've really noticed since we bought this house what a perfect set up it has for having family and friends to stay over. Kids can play downstairs and we can hardly hear them upstairs. They can have snacks or food in the fridge downstairs if they want to spend time there or eat there. It just all works out great.

We thoroughly enjoyed the time they were here, they took one day to go skiing as a family and spent most evenings with us.

The wedding was at 4pm on Saturday with family pictures a few hours before. The family pictures were taken near by at Polson Park and Joy and the girls as well as the rest of the VanV.'s came over here afterwards while the bridal party went elsewhere for the official pictures. We had a house full, what fun!. Yvonne and her five kids as well as Jason, Andrea and her boyfriend and Kees and Ria (parents) We all sat upstairs having coffee and pie and chatting while the 9 kids played nicely downstairs. Hardly heard the kids.

Ben asked Rev. Jason (he flew here to perform the ceremony for his brother) how his nephew Steve was doing. He looked at Ben...ohhhh, is he your nephew ? well...... I need to talk to you......I have a concern about him.....oh,oh, what's this ?

I think he said it was the first day he was there and Steve had a webcam directed straight at him (Jason) and so he asked what that was for and Steve said...it's a direct link to the board of governors !! That certainly broke the ice for the class. We all had a kick out of his telling the story because he had a straight face through the whole process.

Albany, Genoa, Corday, and Tonisha having breakfast. Corday always had her feet on the stool afraid the dog was going to take a bite out of her feet. Genoa being a little monkey.

In the evening Ben and I babysat the two youngest while the rest went to the reception.

Sunday after morning service they had lunch at the church and headed back to the coast.

A fun few days.

Random pictures

2009-01-22T11:38:00.001-08:00

On Monday we decided to drive up to Silver Star to get above the clouds and

it was beautiful and sunny up there. Somewhere underneath all those

clouds is our house. We were told this week that low hanging clouds is the norm for Vernon in the winter so we'll just have to drive up here now and again to find the sun. Lucky Lindsey works up here so we'll have to find excuses to go have coffee with her now nd again.

We may not have over much sunshine but it doesn't rain and is still bright so we're not complaining !

Silas's way of going down the stairs...head first !!

Silas and grandma having fun.

Installed at last

2009-01-20T14:35:00.000-08:00

Shortly after we moved in here we purchased a remote door opener. This was so that, if Ben was working, or out for the day, I would be able to unlock the front door should someone be coming to visit. On entering our front door there is a foyer and then two steps up to get into the main body of the house. As I can't get to the door because of the steps, it is not possible for me to let people in, therefore the need for a remote. ( For those who don't know, we have a ramp in our garage and as that's the only way I ever come into the house, it was not necessary to put one by the front door)

This past Saturday, Ben finally had a few hours to install the new door opener. It took him a few hours as the hole for the new lock had to be enlarged, a finicky and precise job but, it was finally just right and he got everything in nicely. The numbers on the outside pad finally were lit up the way they were supposed to ( after another trip to the store for new batteries because one was corroded in the new lock which meant nothing worked)

The number to open the door from the outside were keyed in to give to friends so they can let themselves in when they come for a visit (Let me know you're coming before you come so I don't have a heart attack when your suddenly standing in front of me :o)

So, every thing is all set, we try the remote and............

it works :o).......................

..................................... from the outside!!!

Back to the drawing board....why do they make remotes from the outside when

A.. you have a key to open the door.

B. you can punch in the code to open the door.

We never even considered that the remote wasn't for the person on the inside being able to open the door for the person wanting to come in.

Were we stupid or what????? Okay, don't answer that one.!!!!

Next project.................................an intercom, then I can tell the visitor what the code is to let them self in.....if I like them that is :o)

Soooooooooo, are intercoms still available, and where do we get one????
Anyone ??????

What's new here?

2009-01-12T14:21:00.001-08:00

Nothing much has happened here since Colin,Laura and kids headed home again. Okay, we've had lots of snow and snowplowing but other than that things have been going along as usual, making visits and having visitors.

A few of those visits were to the doctor. I've had a record of three bladder infections in the last few months, I'm thinking it must be the Vernon air or water, maybe the people ? :o) Whatever it was seems to finally have been cured. The last one was e coli and was sapped hard. Kinda cute when you get a phone call from the Drs. office "can Ben come get a prescription you have a bladder infection again" so glad I don't have to go in all the time myself.

Last week though I did have to go in and was told that my last yearly diabetic test showed that I had too much protein in my urine. I had been told that already several years ago and been put on medication for that as it affects the kidneys. Last year it had been increased (5ml to 10 ml) but this time that had to be increased to 20 ml which, he said, was the highest amount you can have.

It's funny how you come up with all the questions you should have asked, after you leave the office..
My kidneys are being damaged because of the protein content being to high, yet my diabetic count and my blood pressure are normal, both of which when you research the pill, are reasons why you need to go on it. I had asked the doctor originally if there was anything I could do myself to inhibit the increase of the protein problem (such as diet) he told me there was nothing I could do.

It seems strange to me, here I drink water like crazy, 10 and more glasses per day which I think should be nicely flushing out my kidneys and it's not doing the trick.

So what does this mean down the road if I still have more protein in the urine and I can't increase the pill?? I don't know, we'll take it three months at a time (have to be tested every 3 months now.)

One side effect of this pill the doctor told me ?....... dizziness!! so I said that as I'm already dizzy 24/7 it probably wouldn't make to much difference, so far ???......sometimes yes, sometimes hmmm, not sure :o) at least I have an excuse for my strange behavior sometimes :o), phew!!!

Beauty

2009-01-02T09:02:00.000-08:00

Sooo beautiful !

I'm home alone today as Ben is out snowplowing for a few hours. It snowed much of the day yesterday and he was out there for seven or so hours with Henry. They started again at 8 this morning as they never got finished. No more snow since yesterday though.

All of us together. Well, those in Vernon at the time anyway.

Pictures of the visit, more tomorrow

2008-12-30T20:06:00.000-08:00

Grandma and Silas rattling macaroni boxes.
Silas's 'walker'

Beautiful scenery

Serious conversation

School work and eating at the island

Chatting and playing.

How cool is that?

2008-12-29T11:51:00.000-08:00

Saturday afternoon Bertha and Heddy arrived here from Alberta for a week or so visit.
Bertha came to the house on their way to Henry's to drop off this beautiful centrepiece for my birthday yet.
What made this piece special is that it came from Tamara, Rosa and Bertha, how special is that ?
Tamara had sent it to Bertha for Christmas and when Bertha wasn't going to be there to enjoy it for to long, Rosa suggested she take it along and give it to me.
So, this lovely centrepiece came from two neice's and my sister. Pretty special I think. Thanks ladies. We've had it in the centre of the table with the cndles burning during dinner the last two evenings which the kids thought pretty special because grandpa turned off the lights so we ate by candlelight.

Last week was a super busy week what with Colin and Laura, Anna, Naomi, Bethany and Silas finally arriving on Christmas day after Ben and Art drove to Hope to pick them up. John had brought them there from Lynden. They arrived here in Vernon around 5 pm. Lindsey had spent the day with me and spent the majority of the day preparing our Christmas dinner which we then had an hour after they arrived home. Thanks Lindz it was delicious. By the way all, this was Lindsey's first time to ever do a whole Christmas dinner by herself and now she's passed the big meal for Christmas with family as a married woman test !!

I have lots more pictures to post but not the energy right now.

My birthday was very enjoyable with people coming and going during the day. I was even had a piece of yummy cheesecake and other goodies!! Pictures later today.........maybe :o)

A busy week :o)

2008-12-20T17:56:00.000-08:00

This has been a busy week, I've spent hours reading !! Then on wednesday I watch several hours of Ben baking and then I even had to pack it all in containers to be put away. I'm exhausted ! and all Ben did was hike up the hill behind our place and take these pictures.
Then he even told me to blog the pictures!!

He's a cruel taskmaster !!

Enjoy the beauty.

A visit to meet Claire Anne, parents & siblings

2008-12-05T20:10:00.000-08:00

Wednesday morning, we got the long awaited call from John that little Claire Anne had arrived and all was well with both mother and baby for which we thank God for.

Before Claire was due I had asked Ben if we were going to go down when the baby was born. I got the unequivocal reply that we would go down for the birth or baptism, and I could make the choice which but not both. Unhuh !! baby arrives Wednesday morning and who says "baptism won't be till next Sunday and she'll be 10 days old already. We're going tomorrow and come again for baptism," YES!!

So off we went Thursday morning. Took the 4x4 was we weren't to sure about what the Coq. would be like going or returning. No problem either way though the Coq. had been closed for 7 hours Thursday night due to a major pileup. This morning the sign said 'very slippery' but we didn't experience any which we were very thankful for. At this time of the year the Coq. can be pretty hazardous with lots of snow and ice but other than there being a minimal amount on the hills, it was fine. Tonight it's supposed to be freezing rain so, thankfully we're home safely.

Here she is and at 9lbs 8oz. looking pretty healthy with these lovely pinch able cheeks.

Here we have big sister Katrine who 12 years ago, was born on the same day.Now, how exciting is that ? She was tickled pink and especially when she received a digital camera so she can document her sisters growing up.

At the hospital a few hours after Claire was born and they all got to hold her.

Devon,

Katrine,

Emma,

and then Ben who is soooo excited that he's smiling even more than usual. Although he was hoping the baby would be a boy because he knew this one would be the tiebreaker and when he heard that it was a girl he said " shoot" now the girls win" but he's loving her !

Big brother Devon who will be checking out any potential suitors some years down the road!

Proud sister Emma and all the girls in the family.

Pictures and such

2008-11-18T19:30:00.000-08:00

The last week or so, my right foot is not wanting to move the way it should and tonight my right arm is also not cooperating as usual so typing isn't so easy at the moment, therefore a short post (haphazard as well :o)
We were just recently commenting on the fact that it was well into November and I was doing well.
From the beginning of my MS I traditionally have a relapse Oct/Nov. I have spent many weeks in hospital during those months over the years. It's not every year and not always as severe from one year to the other.
Hopefully this will not develop into more than what it is now. It's later than usual, so that;s a good sign to me. So, what happens now ?? umm, rest?? Read?? I can go for that !! Do I do anything else :o)

The pictures at the bottom were taken at John and Shona's the last time we were there. Ben and Emma having fun in the neighbours leaf mound, what fun!

Katrine setting the table and Devon practicing his piano pieces, wow, can he play, we should have videoed it for you to enjoy as well. Next time.

These pictures are from Remembrance day weekend when Alex and Sarah and boys were over. Art and Lindsey were over each day as well. Fun times.

Forgotten news.

2008-11-08T10:55:00.000-08:00

I realized after posting my last blog that I had forgotten a few things such as having made a visit to Byron and Tamara's where we had a nice visit as well as having a 'drive thru' their biiig new greenhouse. Yep, we drove through it ! all the 1000's of poinsettias were hanging from the ceiling, so the floor was empty and possible to drive through. Was neat to see. They were all in different stages of readiness so all don't have to go out at the same time. Ya wonder how they keep track of it all.

When we were at the MS clinic, the doctor asked about spasms, did I have them often ? Now and again but never to long. Sure enough, Saturday night one started in my left foot radiating up to my knee and it kept me awake for hours. It's like an electric shock going through the foot/leg and it sends the leg jumping up. Tried putting the left leg on the right to hold it down,didn't work, both legs just kicked instead of one. At 2;30 I was still awake but it did eventually stop and I got some sleep.

Sure enough, Sunday afternoon in church, it started all over again. There I sat with my leg jerking which then also had my body spasming. It doesn't hurt at all but is uncomfortable. Had a few shorter ones since then and hope this isn't going to become a regular thing yet.

Wednesday I had a down/please leave me alone/I don't want to see anyone day. I have these more often after having had a busy time. I think it is just my body telling me it's time to rest. Thankfully it only lasted one day. It sometimes can send me into a longer lasting depression, which has not happened for quite a while which I'm also very thankful for.

Yesterday we had a really nice surprise visit with Faith and Irene. They had driven up in the morning for a craft fair in Kelowna and drove here to visit us as well. (thanks for the nice smelling soaps girls)
Fortunately Ben had read Faiths blog that morning (he never does that)and read that they had planned to come but thought we were gone to a funeral which is not till next week. Sooo, Ben phoned around, got Martys cell#, phoned him who phoned Faith and there they came. It was real special, especially as they had to make that 3/4 hour drive from Kelowna to visit us and they were driving home again that evening. Don't think they would have been home before midnight. We enjoyed that ladies.

And now Alex, Sarah, Lucas and Dylan (and Zeus, which Licorice is not liking!) are here till Monday. So another nice weekend.
Have a good one all.

A very busy week

2008-11-04T17:44:00.000-08:00

Last week Monday, just after lunch, we headed for the coast for an appointment at the MS clinic at UBC on Tuesday morning. We figured we would stay the week as we wanted to go to the Friday evening reformation day speech by Prof.. Strange in Willoughby and the open house for Rev. and Mrs. VanO. in Abbotsford on Saturday afternoon.

It was a very busy but also very nice week. We got to our house (winter cabin !!:o) by supper time. Were there a few minutes when one of the neighbours invited us for coffee later.

And that's how the week went ! But it was lovely. I don't think we ever went to bed before 10 or 10:30 night. Surprisingly I slept well each night and we both slept in somewhat in the morning, so it was no problem for me.

Monday morning 9am we headed to Vancouver for our appointment at 11:30. The usual, how are you, yes, you have gone back since your last visit. We're still looking for a cure. We also mentioned to him that bowel control has become more of a problem the last few years. Is a typical MS problem for which they have no solution. Guess why we haven't gone flying for a few years? Can you imagine getting two of us in those washrooms if necessary ??? Gotta laugh at these things sometimes :o)

Like Ben says, going to the clinic is more for their records than anything else but it is good to touch base once a year.

After we left there we headed to Langley for a brief visit with Ben's parents and to make an appointment with them for us to come for supper Friday evening.

The rest of the week we were visiting pretty well morning noon and evening. Wednesday afternoon we went to John and Shona's for dinner and evening, had a great meal and visit. We also spent an afternoon/evening at Alex and Sarah's and also had a nice visit there.

We visited friends at home, in the hospital, in the driveway(can't get in the home, so visited by the car)

Saturday before going to the 65th anniversary we went for a weigh in which we had not been able to do for five weeks and the result was a 9lb. loss!!! woohoo !! I've now lost 92.1 lbs. I would like to do about 15 more but am happy with what I am now already.

I have often, over the last several years, wondered how I would deal with things if there was suddenly a cure for MS and I would have to say I don't know that I would be able to deal with it. I have accepted the way things are, yes, there have been tears and anger and frustration over the years, but through and during it all God has given the strength to accept and be at peace with it and knowing that this life is but a short time and we look forward to the new heaven and new earth where there will be no more sickness or sorrow and seeing Him face to face.

A few weeks ago our listing on the house also ran out so we relisted it with a local realtor this time. We'll see where that goes. The house prices keep dropping and is expected to do so for another year. Ahh well, as we've learned over the years it's only material things and what is that compared to the heavenly future ?

Some Fall hikes with Dave T.

2008-10-20T16:14:00.000-07:00

Ben originally said he would write some explanations for some of the pictures but now, earlier today, just wrote the areas they went and which pictures to download so here they are and hopefully nice enough without explanations as I wasn't with them at the time.
Sorry Chandra I really don't remember how to make them smaller but do know it would have taken me forever, and this took long enough :o)

Eva Lake in Mt. Revelstoke National Park

Cougar Canyon in Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park

Douglas Lake Ranch circuit

Twin Lakes just outside Monashee Provincial Park

A day in our lives with MS.

2008-10-09T13:50:00.000-07:00

Ben has always said that the MS is not just my disease but ours. How right he is and this post will show how much it affects him as well as me.

Bens' day starts around 6:15 when he gets up and does his morning exercise. At around 7:30 he brings me a warm facecloth so I can nicely wake up (and cover my mouth while he brushes my teeth!) Once that is done he changes my night bag to the day bag (for those who don't know, I have an indwelling catheter). He then takes my legs out of the bed and lifts me into a sitting position, can't do that by myself.

First thing I do when I'm in the chair is drink a bottle of water (just a habit) I then wheel myself into our huge ensuite (toilet has separate room so it doesn't at all feel like I'm sitting in the bathroom.
At this time, Ben brings me my breakfast (remember, meals every 5 hours so don't want it later than 8 or supper will be too late)

After breakfast comes the shower. Ben puts the wheelchair in the shower, Takes off the drainage bag, I stand up holding the bar and remain standing while he showers me. If it's hair wash day, I will do a 1/4 turn and sit to wash my hair. No problem doing that by myself but as I have absolutely no balance, he has to hold me while I wash my hair or I'll fall off the seat because my eyes are closed.

He then reattaches the bag puts the wheelchair behind me and takes me out of the shower. Once I've towel dried myself I stand up to be dried with the hairdryer to prevent bed sores (recommended by Dr. and really makes a difference.

Then it's dressing time. I can't lift my legs to put my pants on so he does that for me. If absolutely necessary, I can do it with much struggle and takes a 1/2 hour or more and I'm exhausted after that.

The only thing I can put on by myself is a blouse or pullover, and the blouse he needs to do up the buttons as my fingers don't work well for that/ I can do it but takes quite a long time. I then do my hair, which takes a while if my hair was washed as using a curling iron is very difficult to do.

Once in the kitchen I do my devotions and by that time it's close to 9:30, so we have our first cup of coffee which Ben makes, of course.

After that I usually check the computer for emails and check blogs, which I do a few times a day, so keep them going folks :o)
I miss our daily Vancouver Sun but to get it here would cost us $35 a month which I don't feel is worth it, although Ben often picks one up when he goes out, so I don't know if we're really saving anything in the long run :o(

During the day I do a fair bit of reading and CHECKING BLOGS!!!We go to Wednesday evening bible study every two weeks, so there is that to study for.

Sometimes we may go out shopping but going to malls is not my favorite thing to do anymore as they just make me more dizzy than normal with all the busyness going on there.

We have gone visiting people on Sundays but that all depends on bathroom times as I can't get into other peoples bathrooms.

Lunch is usually around one with warm ups from the night before, for me anyway.

Monday mornings I always make a salad big enough to last two days. This takes me at least a half hour or more.
That is about the extent of what I can do for meals, that, or Caesar salad. I told Ben just yesterday that if he brought potatoes out from the pantry, I could peel those with my nifty cutco peeler. So, we'll see if that happens.

Dishes, I can help with, drying at least, but as our counter here is not recessed, I have to sit beside the sink and reach sideways to get at the dishes, which gets very tiring. So dishes go in the dishwasher most often.

In the course of the day, I do some arm exercises (if I remember!) which physio would like me to do. We also try for me to walk up and down the hall with my walker once a day. Did 11/2 time today, whoohoo!! That's about a 15 ft walk. Some days I don't have the strength to go the whole way, but we do what we can.

Supper time , which Ben always makes, is 6 or later, depends on if or when Ben has gone for a walk/hike. Diet wise, it doesn't matter what time we have supper as there's way more than 5 hours before my next meal.

I have two shows I like to watch in the evening, one being the biggest loser on Tuesdays at 8, and the other being survivor on Thursdays at 8.

Bedtime is usually 9-9:30 with a very odd 10pm (society night being one) I go to the ensuite, go into the walk in closet and get out what I need for the next day, then do what I can to get ready for bed,detach the day bag and attach the night bag after which I call Ben and he takes off my pants,compression stockings and shoes. I then wheel to the bed, he helps me stand on the turntable, I turn to the bed, sit on it and he lifts my legs in attaches the night bag at the end of the bed, kisses me good night and I usually read for a half hour to an hour and that's the end of my day.

So you can see from this that it definately is 'our' disease.

I thank God daily that I have a husband that is so caring and takes all of the things he needs to do for me as the most natural thing to do.

I have a fantastic man here :o) and I take him for granted to much :o(

A short post

2008-10-08T11:31:00.000-07:00

Last week Ben and Dave went on several outings and took lots of pictures but as Ben is working for my brother the last few days I have not done a blog as I don't know where the pictures are all of. I know the areas as in Twin lakes, Douglas Lake Ranch and Cougar Canyon, but Ben could best tell what or where the pictures are/all about.

Soooo, he's going to do the next blog. It may take a few day as he's fairly busy and... it's not a priority for him :(

Can you understand why I'm nt always so excited about him going hiking ? He'll try anything like this rock climbing. He didn't go far as he knows the danger but....why try in the first place??? that's my hubby :o)

A different post

2008-10-02T12:38:00.000-07:00

A month or so ago, Jacqui and Adrian H. thought their oldest daughter Carissa looked like she was putting on weight but, being 17, and at an age you certainly don't want to be told that you look like you're getting chubby, Jacqui didn't know how to address the topic and decided best not to. Smart lady!!

I don't recall what happened or why they ended up taking her to the doctor (possibly because the weight gain was extremely rapid) but it turned out that she had an abdominal cyst which needed to be removed soon as they were unable to see any organs behind the cyst and did not know if the cyst was attached to any of them or damaging any of them.

This past Friday Carissa (a niece,great niece, cousin, or second cousin to many of you) was operated on in Edmonton. It had been hoped that they would be able to make 3 or 4 small incisions and take it out through there but that was not possible and a much larger incision had to be made. At this point of the growth, the doctor said she was at a 37 week pregnancy size and they took 10 litres, you read that right,10 litres of fluid out.
They also had to remove an ovary which had been compromised by the cyst, but for the rest all is well for which we all give the Lord thanks for.

She came home Tuesday at 6 pm and is doing well. Needs some weeks to heal and recover(schooling brought home, bummer!)Probably needs some new clothes too as she said her stuff was waaaay to big now (sweet!)

The Lord watched over Carissa and we pray that she may receive strength and healing quickly.

Ben and Dave did the Douglas Lake Ranch trip a few days ago and took lots of pictures which I'll post......eventually. They're off to Revelstoke hiking there somewhere today.

They're off

2008-09-29T09:12:00.001-07:00

Ben and Dave left around 8 this morning for a hike in the Monashe's. Two hour drive there and back and a five hour or more(stress on the more !) hike. I think it will be a laaaate supper today. Think I'll just read all day! good thing I have a new book.

Last Thursday Ben and I went to the coast till late Saturday. We went for the lectures on the Psalms by Rev. Ken K. from Philadelphia. For those of you reading this and haven't yet heard, there are a group of people (all ministers, I think) who wish to, in the not to distant future, get a reformed bible college started here in the west. So to get a taste of what could be, Rev. K. had these three lectures. Ben had been told that about 60 had registered but Friday night, there were at least 100 there, great turnout and lots of young people. Don't know how many were there Saturday morning as we opted to visit Alex and Sarah and Lucas and Dylan instead. (Okay, we slept in :o)

We went to the afternoon lecture, which was also very well attended. A good sign for the future?

Thursday evening, we went for dinner to John and Shona and Kids, had a very nice dinner and visit. Picked up the medical supplies that Shona had ordered for us. We thought we'd have to pay duty at the border but they waved us through in spite of having over $100 and only being there for just over three hours. Must depend on who you get at the crossing.

Somewhere in all this we also visited with sister Jenny and mom and dad, where we had supper. We also visited a store where they were having a 20% off ladies night where I bough several things, most significant being two pair of jeans that had 34* leg length. Finally a pair of pants that are still nice and long when I sit. Whoohoo!!

The last number of weeks I've been having major catheter problems, had bladder infection etc,etc, won't bore you with the details!! Suffice it to say that I'm changing clothes up to three times daily and hubby is doing at least a load of wash a day. Some days we figure it's finally cleared up and the next it starts all over again. Sooooo frustrating and no solution that we know of. Oh well, I got more clothes to change in to now.

Just spent the last hour on the phone with sister Bertha and her computer guy trying to send an email with no success till he finally found me on facebook. She's even more computer challenged than I am !!

Now I'm quitting. I wasn't really in a blogging mood when I started and even less so now !! Like most other people, I've been blogging constantly in my head but nobody puts it on the computer for me :o)

Have a good week all and forgive my disjointed rambling !!

Great, it's only 4:45 and they're home already, I'm not ready for them yet !!
Guys, they always do that to you, not there when you expect them and early when you don't !!

A fall day scoot.

2008-09-20T12:28:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a beautiful sunny day, warm enough to go out for a scooter ride up a path at Cosins(?) bay overlooking Kal lake. I took my sweater along thinking it would be chilly, not, I roasted! Like I said to Ben, usually these scooter 'walks' he takes me on I get really chilly and don't particularly enjoy them. Remember, I'm sitting down the whole time while the other person is walking and working up a sweat.

This was a beautiful trip, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Ben had done it himself a few days earlier and wanted me to see it as well. I was hoping to meet up with the bear and cub he had encountered but no luck. Nor the cougar that someone had said was supposed to be there either. That one I didn't mind missing.

On our way there we passed a beautiful Maple that Ben wanted me to see.

Yep, we have beautiful fall colours as well as you Ontario-ites!

We did encounter a deer on the walk

At the top looking at the tiny boat and skier.

A different point. Look at the beautiful lake colour.

The trip up and down. On the way up we passed some old bear scat and on the way down some new that wasn't there going up. Bummer, we missed em!

These last three pictures are looking towards our 'mountain'. See the delicious apple orchard we're standing in front of ? Umm,mm, wish we could have picked some.
A lot of orchards are in the picking process right now.

In all three pictures you can see our house but the one in the middle shows it best. It's beside the house with the red roof. You can see how they are/have dug out part of the hill behind our house. They are taking the dirt across the road where they are going to build several homes. Behind our and our neighbours they will also be building a few more in a year or two. As there is a low voltage wire right behind us they will not be too close.

This morning Dave came up to stay with us for his holidays and guess what the big plans are ??? I'll be spending time on here blogging there adventures I'm sure.

I don't know what the problem is with blogger these days. This is the second time that I have a blog done and it's right when I preview it but all wrong when posted. Sorry folks the pictures are not supposed to be in a row. I've tried editing it twice but no difference.

Two of us with the same streak!

2008-09-18T18:53:00.000-07:00

Of stupidity that is !!

Last week (Saturday I think) Ben backed into the garage and hit the mirror on the side of the garage. Cracked the mirror casing but mirror still intact.

Sunday he was backing into the garage, chatting away to our company and wham !! not just a little,gentle oops, but wham !!. same side of garage, paint on garage (I haven't looked for other damage there) Good sized dent or two in the back fender. All because ( so says he, ha) because we have not yet put the tennis ball from the ceiling which he uses to guide him into the garage. Ouch!!! ICBC here we come !!

Moral of the story ?? don't talk while backing up.

He was a little chagrined that he couldn't blame it on me as everyone knows I haven't driven for 17 years ! *wicked chuckle!*

Stupidity has struck again !!

2008-09-15T16:28:00.000-07:00

I wonder where that stupidity gene comes from ?? we all seem to get our share of it from time to time. Don't tell me it never happens to you :o) !!

It's been 3 (or is it 4??) weeks since I spilled the boiling coffee on my legs and today I can finally say that it appears to finally have a scab over the last open area. So, I figured it must be about time to do something different. Life is just to mundane around here :o)

We had a lovely two day visit with friends from Yarrow who continued on there slow trip back home again after having coffee with us this morning.

After they left I guess I figured things were just too quiet around here and I needed to liven things up. Never mind having bladder infection, having daily problems because of that. Having to leave during afternoon service yesterday and all the hassle that comes with catheters and such. Nah, need to liven things up.

So what did I do ? I forgot to put the brakes on after having released them to get the phone when I was not in the chair. I then got up to get back in the chair, hit the edge of the chair which then went flying backwards and I landed, with a yell, on the unyielding ceramic tile.(ha, none broke)

So, once again, but this time with a towel, not a blanket, (must be getting smaller, 85 lbs. smaller I'll have you know.) I got pulled into the bedroom and unceremoniously lifted head first onto the bed, turned over and stood back up and plunked back into the wheelchair !!

As I'm writing about this, obviously I didn't get hurt (note to self, get hubby to check backside for bruises tomorrow !)

So, the stupidity gene struck again, and ceramic tile is definitely not soft!

Dylan Alexander

2008-09-11T16:46:00.000-07:00

Last week Saturday we went to the coast for the baptism of our newest grandson Dylan Alexander, son of Alex and Sarah. We are very thankful that after some initial health concerns he is a healthy little boy and growing ! You can see on the baptism pictures that he is not a one week old baby anymore. He's so alert. God is good.

The other grandpa who flew done specially to baptize his third grandchild. A very joyous occasion.

Trying to catch up blog !

2008-09-04T15:04:00.000-07:00

Last week , the day of the wedding, we had a few incidences with memory.

At 12 noon I was supposed to be at the hairdresser, so off we went. I/4 of the way there Ben suddenly says 'did we take the feet of your wheelchair along ? (we don't put the feet on in the house). So he stops the car, walks to the back to look and says, ya, we got the feet but left the wheelchair in the garage ! Never happened before. So we went back, got the wheelchair and still made it to the hairdresser on time. Phew

Did we learn our lesson?? NO !

Time for the reception, we get to the hotel, Dave gets to the back of the car and says, "you forgot the wheelchair !!" Huh ? twice in one day ? but this time the whole wheelchair. Never happened before, just to much on our mind ! How embarrassing.

So we sit there (Ben had phoned home and John and Shona would bring it.) Okay, we wait and watch the last of the people go in. Ben goes to check and they're all waiting for us so the bridal party can come in.

So, Ben goes and asks if the hotel has a wheelchair we can borrow. It's broken or something. So he comes outside with one of those luggage racks that you get at hotels to bring your suitcases in on. "There is no way I'm going into the reception on that !!, I'll just wait till the wheelchair gets here" " No you can't, they're waiting for us, we'll just get a chair from the hall, put you on it, put a guy at each leg of the chair and lift you onto the rack" No one was listening to my pleas of mercy !

So, that is exactly what they did. Put me on a chair and lifted me onto the luggage rack (was I glad I lost that weight!) I held onto the rack, with Ben holding me on one side and Colin the other (plus two in the bridal party, I think, I wasn't looking!!). In we went to the applause of all the guests !! Boy, do you feel foolish and funny all at the same time. :o)

I was at least able to smile for the picture. !!!

The wheelchair came shortly after so all was back to normal. As I have no sense of balance I can't sit in a chair without armrests or I'll fall off so Ben had to hold me till the chair arrived.

Chandra just sent me the picture and I see that all the wedding party were in on this whole fiasco :0)

DYLAN ALEXANDER M.

August 20th, the Lord blessed Alex and Sarah with another little boy whom they named Dylan Alexander

We knew that Sarah was having the C-section that day, so came down the evening before so that we could meet the new little one the day he was born as well as see that Sarah was doing fine. I got to hold the cute little fellow for quite a while.

We went back to Vernon again the same day, thinking every thing was fine. We do take that a little too much for granted don't we ?

Right from the start Alex had already said that he figured that Dylan breathed strangely. When I was holding him it felt like he was having hiccups but you could only feel it in his chest. It felt different but I didn't think it overly strange.

The next morning Sarah mentioned the strange breathing to the nurse who poohed poohed it as she took him to the nursery for the usual prick in the heel test. She came back shortly afterwards and said that his lips had turned blue and they had put him in an incubator in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Needless to say that Sarah and Alex were quite worried as they were not told what the problem was.

The doctor came by later and apologised hat they had not seen the problem earlier. The problem was not a totally uncommon occurrence but certainly frightening when you've never heard of it. The first breath a baby takes when out of the womb, inflates the lungs. In this case the air went between the lungs and the chest wall

hey like to allow the air to dissipate on its own and the baby to inflate the lung himself.So Dylan stayed in the NICU until the following Monday at which time they took him out and was allowed to go home the next day. He is now doing very well and growing for which we are very thankful.

The picture below is of Dylans lungs. The left one being collapsed and the right one partially.

Dylan was part of the massive move from the old Abbotsford hospital to the beautiful new one on the big move day. He was not yet able to go home. Alex went in the ambulance with him. It was a massive operation with lots of ambulances and road clossures, but it all went smoothly.

Dylan last week, and now. First time I see him with his eyes open!. He was our little tie breaker of 9 boys,nine girls. Boys are ahead.

What a cutie!

A wonderful week, mostly in pictures.

2008-09-01T13:08:00.000-07:00

The beautiful bride and handsome groom.
All the beautiful ladies and flower girls. One missing bridesmaid (Sherri O) don't know how that happened !

The reception. Bride and mom.

.A kiss or two!

Dads speech.

The rehearsal, such fun ! Rev. M. had us laughing all the time with his antics !

Putting his 'stamp' on the certificate. He did this at the actual ceremony as well to every ones delight.

All the siblings together, a rare occasion.

Lunch at our house between services on Sunday. All of us except Sharon and Erik and kids. Roel and Dianne B. came as well.

12 adults and 13 grandkids, hectic, but great fun.

The house was full ! A tent trailer with Erik and Sharon and 4 kids behind/beside the house. A trailer, John, Shona and 3 kids behind the house. Pete and Chandra and 5 kids, Colin, Alex and Devon D. downstairs.

Dave T. upstairs in the computer room and us in ours.

People had meals in the house or on one of the decks. Worked great. Ben was kept busy cleaning up, making meals,cleaning up, and for a change, cleaning up !!

Tanya and Joshua and Anna and Gemma were here for large parts of the days as well.

I'm not supposed to tell anyone this but 'uncle/Mr. Dave' T. was kept busy holding babies, feeding babies or helping clean up. He was a big help and enjoyed being part of a big family.

Now it's time to relax !

It was a wonderful week and we thank God for being with us all on our travels here there and everywhere as well as a safe return home for Colin today and Pete and Chandra and kids on Wednesday.

We also pray that He will guide Art and Lindsey in good times and bad, their whole life through.

Stupidity can hurt :o(

2008-08-13T10:46:00.000-07:00

Yes, that's me, not paying attention and paying for it. Monday morning Ben set a (very)hot cup of coffee on my table. I also had a book in front of me and pulled it closer so I could read while I was drinking the coffee. You guessed it, I tipped the cup and it all poured down my legs (upper thighs). Sitting in the chair I could , obviously, do nothing, except holler, "it's burning, it's burning." Oh, boy, did it burn ! Ben had made the coffee and it didn't go through the usual way, so he put the boiling water through again and so it was REALLY, REALLY hot. Of course, I can't just get out of my pants, so by the time we were in the bathroom to do that I had a major burn on the inside of both thighs as well as the lower stomach. Ben got a cloth to wipe my legs and a nice chunk of skin peeled off on one side. Ouch, ouch, ouch!!

So did we have anything in the house to put on it?? course not ! So we just put on our usual polysporin and decided to continue with our plans for the day, which was to go to Orchard Park Mall in Kelowna to see if we could find something for me for the wedding and a new suit for Ben.

We did consider not going, but pain is pain, whether you're sitting at home or shopping. Plus shopping can be a distraction :o)

Well, it hurt for hours but in spite of that I was able to get an outfit, without trying on the pants. Oh, it's so wonderful to be able to go into an ordinary ladies store and have the clothes fit !!! woohoo!! Ben also got a new suit, so we're all set for the wedding. Actually I had already got one the week before but it is a very light grey and Ben felt with my white hair it was a little too light. But, he also felt I needed two, just in case......... So we also bought a fairly bright shirt to go with it, so we're both all set.

By the time I went to bed that night my left thigh had a blister about 1 inch on it filled about 1/2 inch high. The red on my stomach is gone but both thighs are still red with the right one having had a few little blisters on it which have since broken.

Today, Wednesday. The blister is still intact (I thought for sure it would have broken by now) it's still red and still hurts a bit now and again. It looks sorer than it is. I often think about the doctor who once, when Ben was questioning it, said, 'she has MS, she doesn't feel the full pain. If I did, would it be hurting more ?

I also feel though that that is an odd statement, that an MS person doesn't feel the full pain. Both sister Jenny and I don't feel all parts of our body (she, less than I) but neither of us have any problem feeling pain. You pinch us or scratch us, we feel it. Weird !!

That's my excitement for this week :o)

Hormones, hotflashes, pain, etc.etc.

2008-08-07T18:11:00.000-07:00

Hot flashes you say? at 61 years ? I hardly had them at 51, so why now ??

I'm beginning to think it's Vernon :o)

It seems that since I started on the increase in my ramipiril for my kidneys I have these major hot flashes where I think I'm gonna explode. The Dr. told us to check my BP now and again, he didn't say why but I guess that the pills can increase the BP. So, have we done that ? uhh, well, once, a week or so ago :o)

So I'm thinking, okay I need these pills for my kidneys, my BP goes up, so I need pills to lower that, then......side effects to those......more pills. That could be an endless cycle. So. I'm thinking, why not just quit the kidney pills and......Na, I won't, but it sure makes you wonder. Of course, I don't even know if the hot flashes are from the pills but I can't see what else it could be. Ahh, such fun, eh Rosa? :o)

Since I've been losing weight, I've also had more pain in various places, particularly my hips and shoulders. Understandable the Dr. says, you're losing all your padding. So tell me all you people who are 'normal' weight, do you have pain in your hips and shoulders too ??? Seems strange to me if you do.
Learn to live with it girl. Could always put some lbs. back on. Nah, I'll live with it :o)

Ben recently decided that our bed was at least five years old (that's old?)and since I was having this pain, it was time to get a new and improved one.

So he went out and bought a new bed. It is firm, yet has a deep pillow top and is just right for me to be able to turn over. Not to hard, or soft, just perfect and I've actually had less pain the last several nights.

BUT......he bought one that is sooo high I can't sit down on it and he literally has to lift me into bed !!! He already bought a low rise box spring but now we also have to get a new low rise frame at which time the bed will almost be on the floor and it still may be too high for me. So, I told him he'll just have to build me a platform that I can step on from the wheelchair .:o)

I just laugh every time he lifts me into bed, but oh, it's so nice to have a good bed.

Gotta go put the dressing in the salad and then eat. It's hot here 87.4* but I'm sitting in the nice cool 74* thinking the weather is so nice till I stick my head outdoors. Yikes!! Think I'll stay inside!

Hope everyone is having a good week.

This week and last week

2008-08-01T14:10:00.000-07:00

This first picture is where Art and Lindsey are going to live. Theirs is the one in the middle of the picture. It is a triplex with them being in the middle. Lindsey tells me we can visit as it is a level entry but we can't stay too long as the bathroom is downstairs (he,he,) Think she's telling us something???:o) It's on Silver Star road, close to Pete and Marilyn.

Yesterday Ben drove to Silver Star and went for a hike. My favorite alpine flowers.

Every second chair lift is a bike lift with the owners going on the next lift. He found it interesting as he always knew they did this but had never seen how they got the bikes to the top.

The week before when Alex,Sarah and Lucas were over.

Lucas being a little show off ! Lucas having fun at the lake with daddy and mommy.

The week in pictures

2008-07-24T17:14:00.000-07:00

Alex, Sarah and Lucas as well as Zeus are here this week as well but I don't think we've gotten any pictures yet. They've had lots of fun at the beach.! Tonight son in law John, son Alex, almost ! son in law Art and John M. are golfing out at Predator Ridge, boy, were they excited ! Hope they're enjoying it!

Zeus (Alex and Sarah's) and Licorice keeping an eye on me at the computer. Zeus wants to play but Licorice wants none of it !

John and Shona and family in our driveway on the weekend.

Today Ben drove out to Shushwap where John and Shona are camping this week with some of John"s family. Art had brought his boat and Dave D. bought a tube and everyone is having a wonderful time.

Kal lake from Cosins point, which Ben hiked up to on Wednesday. He was disappointed in there not being to much of a view. Oh well, he got his workout!

Busyness

2008-07-18T17:15:00.000-07:00

Monday morning we both had Dr. appointments. Both had been called to come in. It turns out my last blood test showed that my kidneys were a little worse than a year ago and my medication had to be doubled. I still find it hard to fathom. It's the diabetes that is causing this. I am not and have never been on any medication for it and still it's affecting my kidneys? Ineke, Grace and Jenny are all on medication for their diabetes, some a fair bit, but I have the kidney problem.? It doesn't square as our minister would say!! oh well another pill it is.

Monday afternoon the minister came by for a farewell visit as he had heard we were leaving for good on Tuesday. Not quite, as we will be coming back for our attestation next week. After that though we won't be down that often anymore on weekends. OHHHHH, I hate goodbyes !

Before he was gone, opa and oma M. came for a visit. The first time in a while that he had driven that far and been gone past his dialysis time. I had told him that he could do it at our house as he has portable equipment but he didn't think he could. After I had talked to him he looked at the equipment again and realized that, yes, it could come apart.

So they came with the equipment and he did the dialysis at our place. He was pretty pleased because that now meant he could go to other places and take it along and not have to worry about having to be home at certain times, they could even go away for a few days if they wanted. Like come here for a wedding?

Four o'clock we had to leave the house for another viewing. Still no offers but we are patient. I spent an hour on the phone cancelling newspaper, shaw, telephone etc. If anyone wants to call us you'll have to email for our new # as we are now on shaw digital phone and telus is not about to tell you what our new # is. They just disconnected the #.

When we were at the Dr. on Monday he told me that sure slim owed me a gift. I asked why and he said that, without mentioning my name, he had sent upwards of thirty people to the program. He is so impressed with it, especially because of me doing so well on it without being able to exercise. He shook our hands when we left ahh, did I say I hate goodbyes???

Tuesday we arrived back here after going the canyon route rather than the Coq. for a change. It's almost an hour longer but I love the canyon route.

So now we're busy here with one thing and another, emptying the boxes we brought this time, putting the boxes of books from the garage on to the bookshelves. I wanted them alphabetical so it took a few days, but they're done. It's really beginning to look like home.

We had breakfast out on the dek several times this week, love that. This morning at 8 I already had to go in the shade in the corner as it was already to hot in the sun ! It rained a bit later in the day so cooled off nicely.

This morning we also went for a walk at Kal. lake, down to Juniper beach (maybe it was Jade) it was a looong downhill sidewalk and a looong uphill push (a lot easier with 78lbs. less Ben says)! It's a lovely place and was filling up quickly by the time we left.

Tomorrow, John and Shona and family are coming here on their way back from a week in Coaldle. Monday they are camping for a week with some of John's family.

Monday Alex, Sarah and Lucas (+Zeus?) are spending the week with us. WOHOO!!

We'll also be meeting our new Dr. up here for a 'getting to know you visit' Sister Bertha asked if he would take us and he said yes.

So things are falling into place.

Now.....if people invited to the wedding next month would be so kind as to RSVP we'd all be very happy. Know anyone that might not have done that yet ?

Enjoy the rest of your week all.

More pics of the boat and waterslides

2008-07-10T15:00:00.000-07:00

A stop on them way to Vernon

Liam waking up big brother Owen who slept in the big walk in closet in the bedroom Sharon,Liam and Adam slept in.

This morning having coffee on the deck with grandpa and grandma.

Uncle Arts boat. Having loads of fun on the boat.

Owen helping uncle Art bring the boat back to grandpa and grandma's Having fun at the waterslides. The tubing was the most fun as well as meeting the second cousins.

A visit in Vernon with Sharon and kids

2008-07-09T16:40:00.000-07:00

Ben got me up at 5:15am Monday morning so that he would then be able to drive to Kelowna for a flight to Calgary. There he was to meet Sharon and the kids (who were driving there from Coaldale), and drive with them back to Vernon so that Sharon would not have to drive that whole distance alone with four little kids.

We were expecting them back here by 5-5:30 but they were here just after 4 ,so in super time even with stopping three times for drinks,running off steam, and nursing Adam breaks.

Yesterday they all went to Kal beach to swim while I relaxed at home in the nice cool house.

Today Art had the day off and took them all out to Kal lake to go boating and swimming. All just over 5 minutes from our house. This afternoon they are off to the waterslides with all Sharon`s cousins and their families that live here. Fun times for all. Ben forgot to take the camera when they went boating so hopefully I can get a few from Sharon later.
Kal beach.

Yesterday evening, sitting by the fishpond and checking to see how many there are. Soooo tempting to throw the ornamental stones in and around the pond, a big no, no!! I believe the waterfall was turned off when these were taken. Liam also decided to put his feet in the water, what do you expect , water is a magnet to kids. Didn`t take long to find out that was also a no, no !!

A post from Vernon

2008-06-21T15:37:00.000-07:00

We've been up here since Tuesday as Shaw wanted someone over 18 to be here when they hooked us up to telephone, cable and internet. So hubby loaded up the Toyota forerunner so he could take along the computer desk we had bought at Ikea Very sturdy one ( took a few hours to assemble)

Once again we were packed to the hilt with different things from the house we could put into the new home. Mostly pictures which now grace the walls here. We have way more walls to put pictures up on so it's neat to do. Found a perfect spot for the picture you gave us Chandra. Was the first thing aunt Bertha noticed when she came in the house.

The last time we were here Roy(builder) had taken out the doors so the wheelchair could go through. This time the frames were out and the openings made as wide as they needed to be. Thursday the new doors arrived (except the two glass ones for the office and laundry room.)
Friday Roy came and put the doors in, and Rob came and put up the mouldings around the doors as well as the baseboards. Today he came back to install the doorknobs again. So I'm really starting to feel like this is home cause I can pretty comfortably get into the rooms now.

Yesterday Art and Lindsey bought a new computer with monitor and screen at Costco for us so now I don't have to be bored when we come here anymore. I can be on the computer, watch TV, read or phone people, so no reason to be bored !! It's home!!

The first door that Roy put in was to our bedroom. The door to our bedroom is off the kitchen but you can't see it unless you are sitting at the dining room table. It's neat how it is hidden.

Then came the ensuite which is huge !! When you walk in you first thing you see is a large antique dresser with mirror, with a bowl sink set into it. It looks really nice. their is also a clawfoot bathtub. A separate small toilet room. A rollin shower and then a huge professionally built walk in closet big enough for me to turn around in I just sat in there admiring it for at least 10 minutes this morning !! Now that all three doors in the ensuite are bigger, I can get, and put away my own clothes ! hmmmm, that means more work doesn't it ?

Time to go do another activity. READ !!!

Devon's grade 8 grad and Vernon pig roast!

2008-06-10T19:38:00.000-07:00

Got back from Vernon last week, turned on the computer and it crashed. Brought it in to get fixed and the hard drive was shot. So.....we lost everything. All addresses, all the pictures that weren't on disk (many,many!) etc,.etc. Plus Mr. Norton is already in Vernon. So I have to sign in on almost every page. AHHHH, I don't like changes!!
Cocoa, John and Shona's beautiful chocolate lab. He's allowed in the house now and again!
Devon, trying to look natural.

Does this father look familiar to any of you ? Think cousins husband :o) A class of 16, not 13 as I had down first, biggest yet for Lynden.

A play by the kids. Getting their diplomas.

The pig all done up with an apple in his mouth. Was on the spit for 13 hours. He was gooood!
Some of the leftovers. The eaters !! Tables were set up on the church parking lot.
This was one of the reasons we went up !! Was great !

The next time we go up will be for Shaw to set up cable, Internet and telephone, We're getting a new computer up there so we'll be going through this whole hassle again, AHHHHHH
Looking forward to having a telephone though as we only have a cell phone and it's too costly to make calls on it as they would all be long distance, I always take a few books when we go up but reading eight hours straight gets to be a bit much. So it will be nice to be able to phone people or go on the internet while Ben does all the things he feels need doing. We'll have unlimited long distance to Canada and US,. so if I don't forget to take the phone #'s, expect a call !!

Then.........and..........Now

2008-05-23T13:54:00.001-07:00

This is me then. Almost embarrassed to look at them.

A N D , ta da

This is me......70 odd lbs. lighter. Got to remember to pull them pant legs down !! So hard to get them the right length both standing and sitting.

We are moving........again.

2008-05-21T14:15:00.000-07:00

This past Tuesday we went up to Vernon to take possession of our new home there. Wednesday we drove back to Chilliwack and Thursday morning, Ben and Dave filled up a rented budget truck with all the furniture from the basement. Dave then drove the truck and we the car back to Vernon again.

Once there the men unloaded the furniture into the house. We put everything upstairs so that Lindsey, who is living in the house, will have some furniture to live with till we sell our place here in Chilliwack and move up permanently with the rest of our furniture. The house has two storeys, all finished and with lots of rooms for family and guests downstairs. It also has a wet bar with a sink and small fridge and if we add a microwave, guests can do their own breakfasts or whatever, if they wish. Another nice feature is that I can access both upstairs and downstairs.

Downstairs I have to go in from the outside side door (on picture) or thru the grass and thru the sliding doors to the family room. We won't be enlarging the doors downstairs but I don't need that as I can see each room from the door. I love it, but will miss all the people we've come to know here in Yarrow over the last three years. They've all promised to come and visit and it is only four hours away.

Ben has also said that we'll come down here every 6 weeks or so, for a few days, to visit his dad and mom and John and Shona and Alex and Sarah and kids. We'll see how that works in the winter when the Coq. is closed because of the snow!

We're all ready for the influx of family and guests late August !! Room out side for a trailer and tent trailer, or two trailers. John and Shona, Erik and Sharon ???
House from the front and side.

My favorite room, the kitchen, I love it.

Our huge ensuite. The washbowl is in an antique dresser. Looks beautiful, but the bathroom will need a few changes to make it a little more handicap friendly. Not much though. The ensuite also has a huge walk in closet with lots of wire baskets and storage space.

Six doors in the house need to be enlarged for the wheelchair to be able to access the rooms better . In the meantime the builder, who also lived in the house for three years, took the doors out so that we could stay in the house while we were there. It made the door openings just wide enough for me to get through.

Dave went back with the truck on Saturday morning and we stayed until Tuesday. Had a great, but busy time there. Had relatives come over to see the house, did lots of shopping for 'stuff' as well as lots of groceries as we hope to go up every few weeks for a few days or so till we sell our current home. Lots of people came up to us on Sunday, asking if the rumour we were moving up was true or not. We were finally able to say that it was true. There is a nice, fairly sheltered, area on the deck where we spent a fair bit of time in the mornings, before it got too hot. 32 deg. Needless to say, we are having a/c put in !! It's already wired for it so that helps make it easier.
The temporary furniture in the living room where Art and Lindsey are watching Feral, Lindsey's cat, exploring .

Our resident boat, Art's, staying in our garage,and we may use 'whenever' !

Our little fish pond on the side of the house.

Two views from our balcony. The rest are views from the hill behind our house which Ben, Art and Lindsey climbed. And one of Kalamalka lake, 10 minutes from us.

Granparents day in Lynden

2008-05-03T17:23:00.000-07:00

First a picture of the happy couple who have set their date for August 30th !! Exciting times.

On Thursday we were privileged to be at grandparents day with Devon, Katrine and Emma.

We had a great time observing in classrooms, then watching some skits by the kids.

After the skits we had soup and buns with the kids and other grandparents. When the kids went back to class we left and went to the house for a short visit with Shona and Ben, who always gets sooo excited when we show up for a visit. Had a nice visit and then headed home again. It's been an exceptionally busy week.

Katrine's class
Emma's class
Devon's class. He's 6 ft. tall already!!

Emma's class doing a skit. Emma took the rest of the pictures. One of grandpa's speech encouraging the students and thanking them for inviting us all.
Me and us.
The Flag and the scoreboard. First time we saw the new gym. Very impressive.

We've been to Alberta and Vernon...again

2008-05-02T20:14:00.000-07:00

The family (yep, that's snow!)

The house

The MS walk start

Sharon in the kitchen, the living room.

Adam, watching the goofball, the family room downstairs

Stairs up and down both which I was able to see because Ben took our 10ft aluminum channels along and with help from Erik he was able to get me up the steep inclines. Was great to be able to see it all.

Kayleigh.

Yummy strawberries Liam loveed the channels, great for racing cars.

Sharon and goofball.! Grandpa and grandma with the newest grandchild

Last week Tuesday we headed out to Coaldale to visit Erik and Sharon and kids and to witness the baptism of Adam Reid. We had a great trip with an overnight stop in Revelstoke. Arrived Wednesday afternoon to some cold,snowy weather. Brr, we had some cold days there except for Sunday when he went up to 22 I believe. Sun shone some days but not everyone :o(

We had a lovely visit and loved the new house as well. So great to see the grandkids again as well. Grandma got to read several books to them as well.

We stayed in two different motels as neither were as handicapped equipped as we needed but the second one was at least better. I keep saying I should go into business as a consultant for building handicapped rooms in motels. ARGGG !!!

Saturday morning we got an important phonecall from Art, Lindsey's boyfriend, you guessed it....the parent's blessing question.

Anyway ..........On Saturday, after the call, we went on the MS walk that Sharon had signed up for and we were able to participate in. I think Alberta is the only province that has it on Saturday, so it was nice to finally be able to participate in one. We only did the 2 1/2 k. as the kids were all with us Adam in his stroller, Liam in another and Owen and Kayleigh walking. It was very enjoyable and the weather was just perfect,not hot but not too cold either. Lots of pizza and drinks to be had afterwards with facepainting and animal balloons and other things for the kids. Everyone had a great time.

Sunday morning we all went to church where we were able to witness the baptism of two covenant children. What a wonderful blessing. Afterwards I was on pins and needles wondering when that call would come. The phone rang, Erik answered and with a big smile "what, you're engaged?" What an excitement all around !

In the evening several couples came over for coffee and a visit. We left early as we were heading back home the next morning because we had had a phonecall on Saturday morning that Mirjam B. had just passed away. As Ben had been visiting that young family regularly over the last 3 years we wanted to be there for the internment and funeral.

We went back through Vernon so that we could personally congratulate Art and Lindsey, and see the ring ,of course.

So in one week we witnessed the baptism of one of Gods children, the engagement of two of His children, and the death and burial of one of His children. Once again we see that all things are in His hands all praise be to Him.

We've been away

2008-04-14T19:35:00.001-07:00

Last Tuesday morning we headed up to Vernon for a visit. We hadn't been away since last August and thought it was time to see if it was still possible. The Coq. was clean and no snow expected anymore, so it was all good as Ben doesn't want to go anywhere in snow in case there is car trouble and he has to leave me in the car for any reason.

Lo and behold, we had about a half hour of pretty heavy snowfall but other than that short period we had a great trip.

Lindsey and Art came over for the evening and brought along Chinese for the three of them while I had my same old, same old, vegetables and meat. I was at least given a few pieces of sweet and sour pork. Yummy ! We had a nice evening together.

Wednesday we had a few appointments and did a lot of driving around as well as meeting with Art and Lindsey again. It was sunny but fairly chilly. Spring was definitely not as far as here in the valley.

Thursday we went to Bill and Polly's for lunch and supper time we were at Henry and Janets where Bertha and Britteny also came. We had a great meal and lovely visit for the evening,

Friday morning we left before noon again as we wanted to be in Kelowna by 1 pm as it was Lindsey's lunch hour at that time and a good time to see where she works.
But before leaving Vernon we first went to the Moe....'s for coffee where, of course, once we were chatting, we didn't keep too close an eye on the clock and left a little late as we also wanted to visit Art at his work site in Kelowna.

We saw where Art works and as he wasn't busy at the time, he was able to come out and say goodbye.
Lindsey was back at her desk when we got there but it wasn't too busy at the time so she introduced us to several people that she works with.

We left there and after stopping for some very late lunch we headed home via the Connector because of leaving from Kelowna rather than Vernon. We were home by about 6 with no snow or any problem at all.
It was a lovely trip, had a great but also busy time and it all went without a hitch, something we are very thankful for.

Now.....if that baby makes an appearance, we hope to go to Alberta next so we can, hopefully, be there for the baptism.

Till then we gotta get me doing some walking again as that has not been happening lately :o

An Update

2008-04-04T14:54:00.000-07:00

Early this afternoon I walked/dragged(?:o) myself approximately 25 steps.

Well, at least I was upright even if someof it was dragging. Just last week Ben told someone that he figured my walking days were over. But...25 steps is still walking....right?

A quick one, if that"s possible :o)

2008-04-03T19:32:00.000-07:00

It better be possible cause I've already made numerous mistakes just in the title. Just folded wash and that seems to do my hands in.

Tuesday we went visiting to Herman and Mirjam's and Herman asked me if I sleep well. My response was, ya, once I'm asleep, but it takes me hours to get to that point. Boy, let me tell you that can be frustrating when the person beside you is snoring away. Anyway...Herman than asked if we wanted regular or decaf coffee. We let him surprise us and when we left he asked if we had noticed the difference because it was decaf.

Got home,went to bed and was asleep even before hubby was there. All right !!! I had tried it before but it never made a difference. So this time Ben went right out the next day and bought some for us. Went to bed last night and was awake for several hours before finally falling asleep. ARGG. It may not always be as long as I say as I never look at the clock but when it is definitely a looooong time.

We'll see how tonight goes.

AND

We went shopping for some new pants for me and I now have pants 4 sizes smaller than when I started the diet. They fit!!! a few pounds more and they will fit a little looser, but, they still do fit !!

How much more to go ???

Enough :o)

Just pictures

2008-03-29T15:58:00.000-07:00

Art and John, Anna feeding Lucas, Sarah in background. Alex (half) Lindsey, Carl, Anna, Sherie (Arts sister and Sarah, all scarfing down Sarah's delicious brownie, strawberries ,ice cream and whipping cream dessert. And I had ??? An apple, sniff, sniff !

We had more pictures of the family but Ben deleted them as he didn't think the ladies would be happy to have their pictures with mouths open on here :o)

The toll booth where Ben started hiking from as the trail started just after the booth, he parked and walked across. He had to walk quite a ways to go where he wanted to snowshoe from.
It was a beautiful sunny day and there were a number of snowmobiles on the trail as well.
I love this one looking down on the trees, hubby thinks I'm silly :o)

He crossed a lake and tried to find the trail he wanted to follow, but with 6 feet of snow it's kinda difficult !

The fence along the Coquihalla is 8 ft high to prevent animals crossing but as you can see, snoeshoers can just step over at this time of year.

How fast time goes

2008-03-25T19:13:00.000-07:00

Well, I said I was going to do this during the day but that"s just not me. I guess I like to be by myself when I blog and, as my arms aren't bad lately, I figured I'd do it tonight while hubby is at council meeting.

Last week was a busy week for Ben as he was out 5 out of 7 nights as well as some daytime visits and calls. He's not going to know what to do with himself when he's out of office ! One thing I know he/we will continue or do more of, is visiting the seniors, most of who have accessible homes so that I will be able to go along. Evenings for me??? Eeks, I'll have to learn how to converse with my husband again. Hmm, I wonder if there is a course for that ??

Spring is definitely here. Daffodils are blooming, trees are budding everywhere and lots of yellow and pink bushes around. I love spring with new life sprouting everywhere. Our grass definitely needs mowing as well. Plus, there is still new snow falling on the mountains from time to time. God sends us so much beauty to enjoy in nature all around us that you just stand in awe at it all.

Art and Lindsey come down on Thursday night. They came to church with us Friday morning after which we also had coffee at church, where we also saw brother John and Grace, who were camping at Cultus. After having lunch here they were off to Abbotsford, staying at Alex and Sarah's for the next two days.

Sunday the family that lives here and Lynden came over for a delicious dinner. As well as the immediate family and grandkids,we also had Carl and Anna and Sherri, Arts sister. So we had a house full and had a great time. Shona and Sarah prepared most of the meal with us doing up the turkey which was in to long, so a bit dry. ( that website had the time waaay to long Chandra)

Lindsey and Art headed back for Vernon at 7:30. We knew that there was supposed to be a major snowstorm on the Coq. and should have checked the webcam before they left.

An hour later they phoned to say there were stopped and no traffic was moving. We looked at the cam and could see that the traffic going out was stopped but the traffic coming in was still moving, This meant that there had to be an accident further up. Two semis had jacknifed across the road. One thing with the Coq. is that it is a divided highway and being able to cross to the other side is few and far between. Which means you're stuck where you are as there is also not many roads to go anywhere else either.

11 o'clock Lindsey phoned again and said they were finally moving so Ben said that we were going to bed and we would hear from them the next day unless they had more trouble.

Lindsey phoned the next morning that they had gotten home just before three am.!! So a 2 1/2 - 3 hour trip turned into a 7 1/ hour trip. Yep, that's what can happen when you drive the Coq.

But it still was a wonderful weekend.

It's evening after all!

2008-03-20T19:41:00.000-07:00

Haven't done to much with the arms today so I think I can do this for a bit.

Lots has been happening around here lately but most of it has been here in the complex .One gentleman has been in the hospital for a few weeks already and, after discovering two bloodclots in his brain and behind his ear, they operated immediately. This all happened in New Westminster so a lot of driving back and forth for his wife. Earlier this week he was transferred back to Chilliwack.

This man and his wife live two doors down from us and we see them regularly. They go to the Presbyterian church and so we have a lot we can talk about with them.

He came from Holland in his twenties or so and married a young lady from Canada. Over the years she went to Holland with him many times and has picked up a fair bit of Dutch. The sad thing is now that he has had the operation, his memory has been somewhat affected and he keeps reverting back to his Dutch language and she is finding it hard to understand him as it goes beyond her expertise. Looks like another job for Ben, to go visit him in the hospital again, only this time to talk to him in Dutch. Ben was visiting him regularly months ago when A. had had his leg amputated, but it wasn't Dutch then.:o)

Today we, along with A's wife were all invited to another couples house near us and on Saturday evening, the couple across from us are taking us out for supper to thank Ben yet for looking after their house while they were doing the 'snowbird' thing.

Right now Ben is at a strata council meeting down the way. So, as you can read, we/he keep busy. Actually, he hasn't been home an evening yet this week :o(

Last Friday we were privileged to go to Lynden to the school to their 'invention' convention in which all three school aged kids there participated in. We realized after we left that we had not taken our camera, oops, dummies. It was neat to see all the different inventions they all came up with, some quite innovative.

Before we went to the school we had dinner at the house first, so we had a nice afternoon and evening that day. Thanks Shona!

Lindsey and Art are on their way down here right now to spend the weekend. Lindsey phoned at 7 and they were just leaving, so that means they will likely not be here before 11pm/ Think I'll be in bed. Hopefully the Coq. will be cleared of snow or they could be later.

Sunday, everyone that is here will be coming over here for Easter dinner which the girls will be preparing except for the turkey we still have in the freezer and Ben will be doing up. Sounds like a good food and fellowship weekend coming up.:o)

Now if John and Shona will remember to send me, and I can remember how to do it, ???? I will be posting a clip of Emma doing a duet with another girl at their Easter program tonight which we couldn't go to because of this strata meeting. Hmm, maybe they'll show the other kids as well !!!

Time to quit, hopefully I got all the mistakes :o(

Maybe tomorrow

2008-03-19T20:10:00.000-07:00

I was planning on doing a blog tonight as I usually do whem hubby is out, which is every night this week. Poor guy because he's not feeling well at all and will not listen to me to stay home. Typical male !! This morning though, he did listen when I suggested he cancel the visit we were to go on this morning.

By this time of the day my arms are too tired to hold up long enough to do to much typing.
For that reason I will try to do one in the morning.

Have a good night all.

How did that happen??

2008-03-03T20:08:00.001-08:00

Trying to think how last week went. Monday I wasn't able to move the feet much and then Monday evening when Ben came home from his meeting at 10:30 (I have to wait for him to get me in bed, and that is to late !) I felt I had an ingrown toenail and reached down to pull the corner of the nail up and lo and behold the nail ripped off halfway down the nail bed. I was like, huh, how did that happen ? Needless to say, a certain someone wasn't too happy with me at that time of the night cause it meant some more work for him and a later bedtime for both of us.

It was pretty sore after the cleanup and bandaging but not enough to keep us awake.

Tuesday we decide that we should probably go see the Dr. because of the diabetes and taking care of the feet, yadda,yadda ! First Dr. appointment Mar. 10th ! But as he was in the clinic on Thursday morning we saw him there. He thought it strange that the nail came off so easily and thinks that I may have a fungus infection, so he put me on antibiotics for ten days.

Since I've been on them everything seems to be working better. I can make the 1/4 turns necessary to get in and out of bed etc. Can't get into bed by myself but this is pretty good already. It means I still can't go to bed at 9-9:30 as I did before, but he also likes it when I'm there when he comes home, so it's worth it then.

What hasn't changed, and in fact, got worse, is my right hand. There is less and less feeling in it but still good movement. It's weird. I see my hand, see it move but put something light in it, put it out of my sight and, unless it's heavy, I don't know it's there.

I push the keys on here and I often have to do it over because the words I thought I had printed aren't there :o) Boy, I'm wasting a lot of time that way !

Today we decided that I'm loosing to much food off my fork, so it's better for me to eat with a spoon. Either the dog is getting too much, or Ben's not wanting to have to do more wash because of spills :o)

Now I have to learn how to get the food on the spoon without getting it all on my lap or the table ! At least the left hand was still able to get it on the spoon with a knife tonight.

Good thing I've got these new challenges to keep me busy ! Never a dull moment around her !

Have a great week all and thanks for the emails, cards and calls.