Swine Flu

On Yahoo today in an AP article written by By Mike Stobbe, AP Medical Writer, I read that only 1/3 of Americans are able to get the swine flu vaccine. They showed a graphic (shown below).


It appears from the graphic that Texas and California got the largest number of vaccines. Texas got 1,170,400 vaccines. If that's the case, where are they? My doctors group hasn't been able to get the vaccine. My dialysis center said they had no allocations for in center patients, and only enough for 1/3 of the patients out center (those doing home dialysis). I've seen the Dallas County Health Department has vaccine for people living in Dallas County who are uninsured. What about the rest of the population?

The craziest thing I've every seen. Really kind of ticks me off. My husband's niece (also living in Texas) and her children all had the swine flu. My nephews In Utah and their wives and children also had the swine flu. Fortunately, they all survived it. I think this administration really dropped the ball on this. Sigh.

Cool thing, not for my cholesterol, but Sister Beetso taught us how to make fried Navajo bread this week.

Today was busy, my visiting teachers were here first thing this morning and then the Relief Society president was here.

They had a missionary zone conference today at our chapel. Our ward fed them lunch. I brought potatoes over and then came back to help at the end of the conference. It was amazing. The chapel was full of young men and young women serving as missionaries. The Lord's army.

I took the dogs for a walk and then got on my machine. I like it so much better when I get on earlier. Fewer mistakes.

Another new month - don't forget to change your clocks!

I can't believe its the end of October and that November is tomorrow. It feels like its been a long 10 months and yet it seems to have flown by quickly as well. They say the older you get the faster the days go by and they're right.

Since I last wrote many changes have taken place in my life. The sister missionaries from our church have moved into the spare room here at home. They are wonderful. They bring alot of energy into my life and are good company when Steve is at work. Last night was great. They had bought miniature candy bars and attached pass along cards to them and handed them out to the kids when they came ringing on the door for halloween. It was so cute, one little boy was so excited and said to his Mom "It's God Candy!"

When they moved in we had Sister Richardson and Sister Finnell. They did transfers last week and so now we have Sister Richardson and Sister Beetso. Sister Richardson is from Utah and Sister Beetso is from Arizona. Sister Finnell was from California.

We had the garage sale of all garage sales. We cleaned alot of extras out of the house and over two weekends sold made about $2000.

I have become more comfortable with dialysis at home. I'm not near as anxious when I get on any more.

They called me to be a family history consultant. I work at the Family History Library on Tuesday afternoons. So far its been fairly quiet while I am there. I ordered two tapes of information on Independence County Arkansas and went through them and don't find any records on my family there. What was interesting was that they were court records and I found alot of the same people on the court records. Unfortunately, none were mine.


Daylight savings time. I forgot to change my clocks last night. Its an hour earlier than I thought when I got up.

Updates

Wow . . . its been about a month since I last posted. Its been "the best of times and the worst of times."

Getting home after spending a month of training in Grapevine to learn how to do dialysis at home was joyful for me. I was soooooo glad to be home.

However, once here, it was trying. I must have made nearly every mistake on the book. The staff at Davita in Grapevine was most helpful and patient with me. I found a new group of friends on the NxStage Users forum. I found I wasn't the only one who had to learn the hard way and that even after being comfortable with the process, you still can make mistakes. They have been very supportive.

At one point I was ready to throw my hands in the air and one of the ladies on the forum wrote back "take a breath and know it will get better" . . .

Financially we are still struggling. Steve went to work for WalMart and we are most greatful for his job, but last year he was making $18 an hour and now, less than half of that. Fortunately for us, I still draw disability from my church job and social security. It would be devastating without that. Its interesting how its supposed to be illegal to discriminate based on age, but they do . . . and we have found many others facing the same issue. Its wrong to be at this point in life and find this happening, but greatfully we have been blessed with help from our church.

We are having a "clutter to cash" garage sale in two weeks, hoping to bring in enough to pay off the IRS and maybe a credit card. Instead of purchasing needs versus wants at this point, we will be selling the wants we already possess. One of the men from church is coming over on Friday to help post things on Craigslist for me.

Anyway, we were blessed this month to have a pair of sister missionaries move into our home. They are working with the spanish in our community. They are delightful and great company when they are here.

The other HUGE blessing was that my dialysis at home is now going without error. No blood spills or error messages at this point.

All in all, I fell blessed. I think the negatives won't be so bad when I get my Zoloft refilled :)

Mark Mabry has come up with another picture slide slow on the Savior and I am adding it below.

Surviving

The past couple of weeks have been challenging. Using NxStage at home by myself has been hard. There have been days when I just wanted to give up, but I've kept going. I have finally got the procedure with the machine down pat now; my challenge now is keeping my arterial pressures in range.

There's a user group for NxStage. They have been a wonderful help for me. Very supportive.

I have finally decided I need someone here with me when I get on my machine. Yesterday my son came over, the day before, Linda S. came over, and the day before that I had Steve here. Getting off is no problem,I just need someone here when I get on. Yesterday I had to adjust my needles and so it was good to have my son here to help.

Woke up this morning to find it raining and my sprinklers were going like crazy. We really need to get a sensor on our water line.

I'm Home, I'm Free!

I finished my month long training at the Grapevine Davita Center for in home dialysis. They were wonderful and so knowledgeable.

I did my first treatment Friday at home! The nurse from the center came over and assisted me and then she will be back tomorrow.

My energy level is so much better than I can remember having in years. SO MUCH BETTER than in center dialysis. I am so greatful.

When I did my hemodialysis on Friday I felt so much better being in my own home.

My blood pressure has gone way down too. Its all good!

Here's a picture of my new lifeline.

I've read that some of those using this machine have given them names. So I thought "thumper". With my renewed energy, I thought of the energizer bunny, but thats too long of a name, so bunny - thumper - also the machine kind of makes a thumping noise when its priming. What do you think? Any other suggestions?

A Little More Confident

I've just completed week two on my training on NxStage to do home dialysis. Feeling a bit more confident, for some reason having a little problem getting off the machine, but I am able to set up ok. Troubleshooting seems a little scary to me, glad we have a manual.

They are sending a plumber out on Tuesday to put a line and drain in and will be sending home the Pureflow part of the equipment on Monday.

Steve is so cute. He's been trying to figure out how to lay out the furniture. I've seen him and his measuring tape checking on things.

Took the dogs for a short walk when we got back this afternoon. Went with one of my friends over to prepare for the clothing exchange tomorrow morning at church.

Tired, signing off, and going to bed. Gotta get up early (while its still cool) so I can pull weeds out of the front bed.

NxStage

I'm learning just how awkward and clumsy I can be. Last week I started NxStage training. NxStage is a dialyzer that will allow me to do dialysis from home. I had been driving over there all last week and on Friday I got lost. Go figure.

I am really sold on NxStage. This is the start of my second week and I can already tell I have more energy. I'd like to make my way through just one time without making a mistake.

Today when I went I did something that caused the bags to leak all over the floor.

On the way back today ................. I really freaked. I didn't see the HOV sticks coming up on 635 and over compensated. I whipped to the right and lost total control of my car. Scared myself. At one point, I nearly went off the overpass. Praise Heavenly Father, he didn't let me and somehow kept me from hitting anyone else.

I am still a little shaken but very greatful.

Normal Lives

Its been a great week. A week with lots of change in my life and growth.

Walking the dogs tonight, I glanced over to my right and saw a family through their dining room window, eating their dinner. I was reminded at that moment, most of us live very normal lives, in normal homes. Not the homes you see on tv on HGTV, but normal living; with laundry to do, dishes to wash, floors to clean, and toilets to scrub. The lives we see on tv are just lives on a stage, not the reality. We need to be grateful for our simple lives.

This past Monday I got a call from DaVita in Grapevine. They wanted to come over and do an inspection on the house to see if it would be viable for home dialysis. She came over the next afternoon and when she was leaving asked if I was ready to start this coming Monday for training on NxStage. It floored me because I wasn't expecting it until the end of August. What a surprise, a good surprise. I said goodbye to all of my friends at the center in Plano this morning.

I'm not sure why this was advanced up a month, but it will be interesting to see why down the road. Its kind of in wonderment. I'm anxious to see the Lord's purpose in all of this.

On another bright note, Steve got paid today from the contractor he's been doing work for.

Saturday afternoon

This has been a different week for me. I went out Tuesday to the DaVita in Grapevine to meet with the nurses there who are going to train me to do dialysis at home. It looks like it'll start end of August and I'll probably start at home in October. I'm so thrilled. It will give more energy and the ability to have a bit more of a life.

I've spent this week down on my knees. When we had the tile in our kitchen and family room installed, (I'm too embarrassed to say how long ago), anyway, the installer didn't get the grout out of the pits in the tile (its supposed to look like travertine). In spite of mopping and scrubbing, nothing would bring it out. So this week, I've tried using a wire brush and a can opener (the kind you'd use to open pop bottles or canned milk). Anyway, I've made huge progress. I've got about half of it done and hope to have it done by the end of this week. It looks soooo much better.

Gotta go, off to the temple. Funny story. When I worked as the secretary, I'd asked for a color printer. Didn't happen. So when I went in Thursday morning to volunteer, it came out he'd bought one for his office. I gave him a call and teased him. He said everyone had been told not to tell me. So much for secrecy.

A House Full of Blessings

I'm sitting here watching my daughter and one of her friends sound asleep. The house is full of her friends. They got in this morning around 4 from San Antonio. My daughter got here a week ago, some of her friends got here and on Wednesday and the remainder on Thursday. They spent Thursday doing things in our area and left on Friday to San Antonio. They leave today. When I got up to eat breakfast this morning, I found a corner in the back of the house to eat.

Going to Sacrament this morning and then back home to see them off.

Daughter's Home!

My daughter came in from Utah last night. She drove all the way here by herself (and her dog). She got in about 2:00 early this morning. She'll be here for about a week and a half. I love it when she's around.

My son came over for a while this afternoon to visit with her as well. We're having a family dinner tomorrow night with everyone here.

The heat has been oppressive this week. Even the dogs aren't wanting to go outside.

Dialysis went well last week, my access site is progressing well. We are starting next week with the blunt needles and I start poking myself again. Fingers crossed that we can get this going so I can get my training over with and my NXStage set up at home.

Neal Maxwell

I'm sitting here as I type listening to a talk by Neal Maxwell from 1974. I am so greatful for technology. I loved him as an apostle and his messages and instruction have always brought me great comfort. Now listening to his voice, I feel such joy.

Dialysis went well today. I came home, walked the dogs,did some cleaning, and went through papers.

Joe Matheney and Darrell Morie were here today and mowed my front yard. I am so greatful for their service and proud of them as young men. This new generation coming forth gives me such hope.

Gratitude

I wanted to take a moment and express my gratitude to those silent angels who have been such a blessing to me in my life. The quiet acts of kindness shown to me and for the many things that have been done to make my life easier. Thank you.

Hello Again

Wow . . . I know its been a while since I wrote last.

Saw the doctor today and I'm having surgery the end of the month for cataract removal. I feel so very old.

We've been doing a lot of freecycling this month. We had posted old magazines and one of the ladies from church turned out responding to the posting and got them.

I had a lady come by today to pick up one of the plants I posted. I like the site.

Went to Dave Ramsey's financial peace university week 3 last night.

Not much else. More later.

Success!!

I did it! I managed to stick both of my needles in this morning at dialysis. I didn't even get queasy. I came home, ate, walked the dogs, and . .. don't yell at me Jeanette - I mowed the yard. With all the rain it had gotten up just too high.
Fortunately, with all the garden beds its not near as bad as it used to be.

A great Sunday

Today felt like what Sunday is supposed to be. Church this morning was great. I even saw Brother Schroeder shed a few tears. I told him he was getting more weepy as he was getting older.

Karen did a great job in Sunday School and Heather stepped right in for Relief Society since Peggy was sick. I hope nothing serious. Margaret picked the 7th Article of Faith for the practice song and I think it threw a few people off track.

We got home, ate some baked potatoes, took the dogs for a short walk,and took a nap. Woke up at 6:45 and had wanted to go to Nancy's Dad's fireside so we hightailed it up there. It was on the First Vision of Joseph Smith and brought up some interesting things I wasn't aware of. It was really a good fireside and we got home about 8:30. Spent quite a while talking (which is not usual for us), but it was good. Heading for bed.

Oh my grass seed wasn't totally wasted. I see little spots of Bermuda poking their heads up out of the soil. Yeah!

Tomorrow I get to start putting my needles in myself. Keep a prayer for me that it goes well.

Rain rain go away, come again another day

I remember singing this when I was much, much, younger. I thought I was going to mow the lawn this morning, I guess I have other things to focus on today. The Lord has taken care of watering my garden.

The power went off this morning at about 3:30 a.m. I know because Steve had a nightmare and it woke us both up. The lights went off and on and off an on and then just off. What was amazing is that somehow in the middle of the night, I remembered TXU's emergency number. I called them and got a young lady in India wanting to know if my neighbor's lights were off as well. I told her it was 3:30 in the morning and I had no way of knowing. I went back to sleep and sometime later they came back on. Not sure when.

Stephen (my son) called me yesterday afternoon and had met a man (Ralph) who owned an electrical contracting company. He was here in Plano and does solar panels and windmills, etc. He told him about Steve and he said he wanted to meet him. We called and left him a message and he called back. He's suppose to set up an appointment with Steve sometime on Monday. I talked to Stephen this morning and told him we'd spoken with Ralph and he said "God really does answer prayers". His testimony is there, but this really confirmed to him that his prayers were answered. What a blessing.

Anyway, we'll see how it goes. We're excited. He said he has plenty of work.

Wednesday and bathing of two dogs

Wow. I actually stayed out of the yard today. Yesterday I planted herbs and begonias. Well actually I almost forgot I did put a bag of mulch down this morning w
when I got home from dialysis.

With finances tight I've had to stop taking the dogs to the groomer and today tried my hand at grooming them. Not groomer quality, but ok. Lots of water everywhere and one of the dogs kept trying to escape but generally did really well.

Housework today - oh my!

Left dialysis this morning wearing a fashionable white smock top. I had gone in with my green shirt on and about 30 minutes before I was through I woke up to see a big puddle of blood on it. Apparently, I had laid on my connection while sleeping and . . . the rest is history. They wouldn't let me leave without putting on this white thing so as to not freak the rest of the world out.

Got home and took the dogs for a walk and now, housework.

Yesterday, I put out the last of the grass seed over the grass seed I planted on Saturday since I am almost positive its all gone down the alley. I put the sprinklers on this morning to water it and it rained. Oh well.

The end of another Monday

Today was just a quiet day. I got back from dialysis, took the dogs for a walk, rested, and did indexing on familysearch.

What a week!

Sorry I've been so slow in writing. The past two weeks really have been yard work, yard work, and more yard work. I've really over done things. Whatever happened to "And see that all these things are done in wisdom and order; for it is not requisite that a man should run faster than he has strength. And again, it is expedient that he should be diligent, that thereby he might win the prize; therefore, all things must be done in order." I haven't learned this lesson, in spite of one particular temple presidency trying to teach it to me.

I just feel compelled to get as much done as I can. Anyway, yesterday I planted 60+ plants. 5 trays of impatience, 5 trays of vinca, a basil plant, another tomatoe plant, 4 more plants of asian jasmine for the bed that is my major project after a year, and a honeysuckle. Needless to say, when it was time to get up this morning to go to dialysis I slept through the clock. They called me at 6:30 and asked if I was coming. I was so embarrassed. Some poor older gentleman sitting on a chair with his hand on his walker was waiting for me to get off. I apologized profusely. Dyann Bennett came to see me and I was so glad to see her.

Anyway, I thought I'd post some of my prize pics.
I have buds in my mystery, victory, garden. When I planted the seeds, I forgot to mark them, so I don't know what's coming where. Its a surprise!



The bed I planted starts in has things growing, I haven't killed anything yet.

My strawberry plants have blossoms.

My iris plants are blooming.

And finally, my new plantings. My honeysuckle...

And my impatience and vinca -


So now,hopefully its just water, fertilize, and weed. No more planting till fall.

I know, I do need to fix the year on my camera.

I have this fun little game I play when I get bored during dialysis called "Bejeweled". The goal is to line jewels up 3 or more and then they disappear and you just keep going till you go up levels. I've been thinking alot about it this week and how it reminds me of consequences. As I move the jewels they reorder everything around them. This makes me think about how we exercise our agency not only affects us, but everyone around us.

Anyway. More later.

The last is in!

The elders came over this afternoon and helped me by loading the dirt into the flower bed.

It took them only two hours to do what would have taken me days to get done. I'm so greatful!

I Have A Garden, A Lovely Garden . . .

I kept waking up last night with every muscle in my body sore. I woke up sore and called in to the temple this morning to be sure my co-volunteer would be there and opted to stay home. I'll be there on Saturday, so I don't feel too guilty, (just a little).

I wandered out to my garden this morning and so far everything is still living. Here are a few pics. I have many other things growing and a whole other bed to put dirt in and plant in. I'm going to take a few days to get that one done though.

Everyone who is really into gardening tells me how much they love it. I can't honestly say I love the work, but I really love the results. To be totally honest, I think gardening for me is a form of therapy.

Sorry I'm Slow at Writing

Wow . . . I've been at it again. We had eight yards of dirt delivered on Monday. It took me three days, but I finally have one of the planter boxes full of dirt. This afternoon I planted squash, cucumbers, tomatoes, peppers, and cilantro. It felt good to get it done.

My rose bush is looking beautiful.

I'll post pictures tomorrow. Today, I'm beat.

Yard work

Last week was a hard week for me. I started running fevers on Wednesday and didn't get rid of them until Sunday night. Monday was difficult as I came home very light headed after dialysis. Tuesday's are always my best days and yesterday was no exception to the rule. I planted some jasmine and vinca in my front lawn and came in feeling good about what I'd done, but tired.

The temple presidency sent me a get well card and it made me feel homesick. I'm just greatful I still get to see them once a week.

Steve has been busy building planter boxes for our vegetable garden. He had some old lumber and put it to good use. I've attached pictures of his progress thus far.

Dave Ramsey

We went to see Dave Ramsey speak yesterday. I'm know his plan will help us to be in a better position when we reach our mid-60's. Not too far off.

Some of the things that struck a cord with me:
Poor is a state of mind. Broke is got no money, but I'm not staying here.

You have to focus and do things line upon line.

Take baby steps.

Its not over until you quit.

One more week gone

Still running a fever. Dr.Biedermann came by and checked on me again. He prescribed some Levaquin for me. Hopefully this will kick it for me.

We get to see Dave Ramsey tomorrow. I'm looking forward to this.

I went today to help a dear friend dress her Mom for burial. Her Mom looked like she was in such a state of peace.

Justin Burrows, Nina Matheney, Noah Adams, and Emily Adams came by this afternoon and provided me with an awesome service. I've been struggling with my front plant bed and they came over and weeded it for me. Thank you guys. It looks so great!

A little spooked, but o.k.

Last year I fell twice within six months of each other. Both times, broke bones and wound up in the hospital with sepsis. Not quite sure why, but the thought was that possibly one of my cysts on my kidneys had ruptured with the fall. When I fell on Saturday, I was just relieved that I hadn't broken any bones and thought nothing else of it.

This morning at dialysis my temp was normal, but about 6 tonight I started with a rising temp. I thought "here we go again."

Thankfully, my temp just broke. I'm not sure why I ran one, just glad I'm not over at Baylor tonight in the ER.

Other Than Being Totally Sore

I'm actually doing ok today. Other than the side hem of my skirt splitting half way up my leg during sacrament, I'm doing ok. Other than getting to church without the dog carrier I promised Sister Wisor, I'm doing ok (I ran home after sacrament and got it). Whew. I'm glad I remembered.

Church was good. The Mizraji's spoke in sacrament meeting and did an outstanding job. I enjoyed their message. I realized during their talks they were baptized the same year Steve and I got married. Joseph Butcher spoke also and did an amazing job. I thought what a great missionary he'll be.

Sunday School - I walked in a little late (see dog carrier thing), but Karen did her amazing job. Her lessons are so well done and she brings the Spirit into the room every time she speaks. Her lesson was on missionary work.

Relief Society - Peggy Burrows did a great job teaching the Joseph Smith lesson on being a peacemaker. Her health is improving and you can see it in the way she teaches. That spark is back.

Got home and walked the dogs, ate lunch. Steve has gone home teaching and I have a few quiet hours to myself.

The plantings from yesterday are still alive . . . yea! I saw this on one of my favorite comics today and thought I would share.

Gardening all day

Wow - I'm beat and sore. I woke up this morning, walked the dogs, went to Lowe's and WalMart. I was planning to just get a few things and well you know how that goes.

When I got home I started planting. So today, I planted two Indian Hawthornes, a Coreposis, Daisy plant, three strawberry plants, some Rosemary, a flowering vine, transplanted another plant, three hostas, two ferns, and about 18 dianthus. I also put down 4 bags of mulch.

I tripped over the edging at one point and fell straight forward and landed on my hands and knees. I will admit to be a little more than scared. For those of you who know me well, you know how I panicked. With my kidneys, my bones are not the best and in the past, I would have broken both wrists. Having already done that and with metal plates in both wrists, I was protected. Thank you Heavenly Father.

Wow ... I'm beat. Took my shower and feel much better.

Gardening

Got home today and took the pups for their daily walk. When I got home I headed straight for the backyard and started pulling weeds. Two hours later, two bags full of weeds, and I was exhausted. My feet looked like they'd never seen water.

I came in did some indexing and then climbed into the shower. Squeaky clean now just so I'll be ready to start yardwork again tomorrow. Its ok. I love my showers.

We're going to try building a raised bed for the vegetables this year. I hope it eliminates some of the weeds and allow for more drainage for the plants to grow in.

Sometimes the Greatest Things We Do Are Within the Walls of Our Own Homes

When you understand, without equivocation, that you were chosen and reserved for now, and when you live in harmony with that mission and with the promises you made premortally, you'll be happier than you have ever been before. Sheri Dew



Watch more cool animation and creative cartoons at aniBoom

I ran across the clocktower video and it reminded me of something I had read by Sister Dew earlier this morning. I know there are times I live beneath my blessings, but I know who I am and that knowledge always pulls me back into line and helps me to refocus on those things most important.

Yesterday was a good day - I worked in the backyard and Steve and I had a date night last night. We haven't had one in a long time. When he asked if we could go out my first thought was, we can't afford this, and then my second thought, we can't afford not to do this.

Onward and upward.

New church video - Its great

Happy St. Patrick's Day

As I've worked on my genealogy I have found my roots on my Dad's side are really Irish a few generations back. So today, I'll be wearing green.

Yesterday wasn't too good of a day and I didn't accomplish anything but cleaning the kitchen and taking the dogs for a walk.

Today will be better. Lots of cleaning to be done and yard work.

I am so impressed with the young mothers and fathers in my ward. When I was raising my two, the only real interaction they had with their father was in sports. So its fun seeing Dad's hold their children and helping their wives with them. The mothers are more educated than I was and most of my counterparts at that time. What a blessing they are to their children.

Things are starting to come back that I had planted in my planting beds last year. This thrills me. To me its alot like the resurrection. They've rested under the ground for a season and then start to come back in the spring. I've been pulling weeds a little at a time and yesterday I just over did it. Today I'm going to try and take care of it earlier before it gets too hot.

Klarise Richmond came by this morning to tune my piano.

Off to busyness.

Another really great day

I woke up at a decent time this morning and turned on BYU TV and watched a devotional with Elder Wirthlin on it. Dozed back off and woke up an hour later.

Church was really good. Christensen's did a great job in sacrament and I thought Jessica looked absolutely stunning with that pink top and red hair of hers. Don't you think so too?

Karen did great in Sunday school and left us all with alot of thought in her lesson and me thinking more of my relationship with Steve. Relief Society was great. I love Barbara's lessons and gave me thought as well on where I spend my time.

This evening we went over to Steve and Holli's for dinner. We had lasagna and french bread and dessert. We also had really good company. I love spending time with them. She has created a beautiful home for the two of them.

I'm tired and think I will go to bed.

Survival

My sister and I spoke this evening following a cute message left on my voicemail from her grandson, Aiden. The message started off with lots of whispering and then this cute little voice "I love you aunt Dianne". Melted my heart, so I called her back.

We got into a discussion. I told her I'd posted my picture on dialysis. She said I should take it off, that its not who I am. She's right. I am a woman who has survived alot. My first marriage was rough - but I came out of it with two exceptional children and a third when my son got married.

I remarried and have been blessed by this marriage for 16 years.

I have survived an incredible number of medical problems. Financial problems. These things aren't who I am, they have helped create who I am. I feel blessed for moving beyond them and being a better person because of them.

I was blessed to work in the temple for nearly 15 years.

The Lord has watched over me through all of my trials and challenges. I know he knows me and loves me. I can't ask for better than that.

Anyway, enough of that.

Cheri's wedding reception was tonight. Sadly I fell asleep around 5 and didn't wake up until 7. I climbed in the shower and hurried Steve up. We had spent the day cleaning out the garage and his truck was loaded with things to haul to the dump on Monday. I had decided to head on over to the chapel while he was cleaning up and walked out into the garage and saw his truckbed loaded and realized if I didn't wait on him, he'd be there long after it was over. I got there just as Cheri was leaving. Sigh.

I saw this Glen Beck video this evening on the amount of money the government is printing and the devaluation of the dollar and put it her to be seen. Incredible.

Farewells

Me on my machine. I don't normally look so wiped out. It was about 7:00 a.m. and I'd been on the machine for about 15 minutes.

When I first started in dialysis the nurse on the staff at Davita really watched over me and helped me feel safe when I started dialyzing. They are opening a new Davita center on the west side of town and she is going to be the facility manager there. I am sad to see her go, but I know she will be a blessing to others in the facility there.

I've decided to add pictures of the staff and my machine today.
This is Terri. She's the one changing centers and will really be missed.


This is Tomika. She will be staying at the center (whew! I couldn't handle more change).

Once the center is up and running on the other side of town many of those who started will be transferring there. I understand our center has a waiting list. Its a good thing my name got in before now.

On another note, I was really charged yesterday when I was able to figure out how to make my blog a three column blog. So its a little different than before.

Why Mormons Build Temples

While I was at the temple this morning, an email came from Salt Lake saying the church had put out a video on youtube concerning why we build temples.

I've included the youtube link for it below.

It was a good morning and a quiet afternoon. We were busy printing and cutting family file cards and taking prayer roll names this morning.

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I am getting so old . . .

I was on Facebook this evening and found a posting for my old high school. I found a guy who was the brother to two guys I used to hang out with from church. I sent him a message. He confirmed me and I got to see pics of his family. Wow, alot changes in forty years. Did I say 40 . . . ouch! They have great looking families.
Its hard to believe how quick time flies.

HBO and Big Love

Having been a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for more than 58 years, I am disturbed on many points with the upcoming episode of Big Love on HBO. The following is information from the Deseret News on the matter.

"Time Warner's Home Box Office network will cross a very bright ethical line when it airs an episode of "Big Love" Sunday that producers ironically said Tuesday depicts LDS temple ceremonies with "dignity and reverence." HBO apologized if the episode offends but is not likely to pull from its lineup.

Here's the first ethical problem -- honesty. Under the guise of portraying a polygamist family drama, series producers employed an ex-Mormon to help them construct sets and costumes to re-create temple rites.

The disingenuous statements continue. "Big Love" producers had promised that they would draw clear lines between the practices of polygamist groups and the LDS Church. Here's the statement HBO released Tuesday:

"We know that the writers/producers of the series have gone to great lengths to be respectful and accurate in portraying the endowment ceremony. That ceremony is very much an important part of this year's storyline. Obviously, it was not our intention to do anything disrespectful to the church but to those who may be offended, we offer our sincere apology. It should also be noted that throughout the series' three-year run, the writer/producers have made abundantly clear the distinction between the LDS church and those extreme fringe groups who practice polygamy. "

If it was so, why does the media around the world still so easily confuse the two? They obviously don't get it. In this case on two fronts -- an excommunication proceeding and temple ceremonies -- they are using LDS Church practices as the portrayal of what polygamist groups do. Producers may understand the difference between the two groups but don't seem to care if viewers are confused and, in fact, their statements sound like they are unapologetic for their choices. Is the consultant privy to what fundamentalist groups do in their church and temple?

Even then, why should those groups be subject to the same kind of media abuse?

In a prepared statement released Tuesday to the media, "Big Love" producers Mark V. Olsen and Will Scheffer said, "In approaching the dramatization of the endowment ceremony, we knew we had a responsibility to be completely accurate and to show the ceremony in the proper context and with respect. We therefore took great pains to depict the ceremony with the dignity and reverence it is due. This approach is entirely evident in the scene portrayed in this episode and certainly reflected in Jeanne Tripplehorn's beautiful and moving performance as she faces losing the church she loved so much. In order to assure the accuracy of the ceremony, it was thoroughly vetted by an adviser who is familiar with temple practices and rituals. This consultant was actually on the set throughout the filming of the scenes to make sure every detail was correct."

What the producers don't get is the "context." Temple blessings are understood by those who are worthy and spiritually prepared. What Olsen and Scheffer have created amounts to religious pornography. It takes something that is sacred and meant for personal reflection and commitment and throws it before the masses. Unfortunately, other religious groups have not been spared entertainment industry abuse. See the LDS Church statement here. I also appreciated the words by a Salt Lake rabbi on KSL-TV.

"The whole idea of having holy, sacred garments is that they act as a reminder to the person or persons wearing them. That what's going on, what is happening while those garments are being worn is a sacred moment," said Rabbi Benny Zippel, of the Chabad Lubavitch of Utah.

Here's what TV Guide magazine wrote about the episode:

" 'It's almost a 'don't ask, don't tell' policy,' (not in my 58 years have I ever known a polygamous family in the church and certainly never heard of a 'don't ask,m don't tell' policy) says executive producer Mark Olsen. Their under-the-radar status will change this week when Barb (Jeanne Tripplehorn) faces the consequences of breaking the rules and is called to an excommunication hearing. 'We researched it out the wazoo,' says Olsen, who along with executive producer Will Scheffer hired an ex-Mormon consultant to help the set and wardrobe designers re-create even the tiniest details. 'We go into the endowment room and the celestial room (areas of the temple), and we present what happens in those ceremonies. That's never been shown on television before,' says Olsen. Adds Scheffer, 'But it's not for shock value. (If not then why was it put in)It's really a very important part of the story.' "

The second ethical problem is "Big Love" producers' sense of arrogance and lack of sensitivity. . . . The airing of this episode is a total disregard to what members of a religious group holds dear and sacred. According to Elder Dallin H. Oaks, with rights to publish, air and speak freely also comes responsibility. The "Big Love" producers are abandoning such responsibility to shock value. They will likely get what they want, big ratings driven by controversy.

Don't get me wrong. I don't believe there should be any effort by government to censor HBO, but I do believe those who care about respect for religious ideals should enter the marketplace of ideas and make calm and reasoned arguments about why this show is offensive. The public should demand HBO observe higher ethical standards. HBO ought to make the ethical decision to pull the show based on its offense to members of the nation's fourth largest religious denomination."That message has already gone viral. There are groups on Facebook, tweets on Twitter and e-mail blasts asking Latter-day Saints and others to ask HBO to examine its ethical principles. I join those raising a call for HBO to exercise some responsibility with its First Amendment rights." Article by Joel Campbell, dated March 10, 2009.

My Unemployment Disaster

So Steve subcontracted electrical work on a house in Highland park. He was paid on draws based on what was completed on the job. It was hard to figure out how to report it on his unemployment. Back in January messed up his unemployment when I filed a payment, so I followed the directions of the lady I talked to at the time when I filed his last payment and it through the process out of whack. "Please contact the Unemployment Office" staring at me on the screen. I called and sat on hold for 37 minutes before I spoke to a rep. She straightened things out and said I needed to refile, I kept trying and kept getting a message that he wasn't eligible to refile until March 15. So yesterday afternoon I called again and sat on hold for 20+ minutes and the girl said you should be able to refile. Try again tomorrow morning. So this morning again, I sat on hold for 30+ minutes because it still didn't work. When I talked to the rep she said for me to retry and now the message on the screen was "Unable to refile until March 22." Yipes! Anyway, bottom line I didn't need to refile she had made a correction to the file and I had to do nothing, but wait on hold for over an hour total. Such is the process. I'm grateful for the unemployment, but it can be a bear to work through.

Steve has a job interview in Southlake this morning. We'll see how it goes.

I love Tuesdays. I feel so much better.

Kristin called. Her Dad's visiting and I think she's ready for him to go home. Its frustrating to her because he keeps her waiting all of the time.

What a Monday!

Within an hour of starting dialysis this morning, the lady sitting next to me started throwing up. Not just a little, but alot. Unfortunately she threw up into my shoes. The nurses asked what I wanted to do with them and I said "throw them away!". I'm going to be sure to put my stuff on the other side of the chair next time.

It wouldn't have been too bad, except I was nearly out of gas and had to stop to get gas on the way home. I had a 50 cent per gallon discount from Tom Thumb and went looking for the Tom Thumb to get gas. So I'm standing outside pumping gas in my stocking feet since I had no shoes.

On the way back home I dropped something off I had promised Margaret and had to go to the door again in my sock feet.

What a Monday. At least my blood pressure is back up.

They had a new patient at the center this morning. She's about my age and totally overwhelmed by the dialysis. She had originally planned to not do the dialysis. She had told her doctor and her kids she would ratherdie than do the dialysis. When she passed out they took her to the hospital and started the dialysis. We had a nice talk and I told her to hold on and trust in God's plan for her. Its not always an easy thing to do, but I've learned he is the only one I can really trust to watch over me.

Another Sabbath Day

Church was really good today. Margaret spoke in sacrament meeting and I found many things she said that spoke to me. Jarom also spoke and he bore his testimony of the prophet Joseph Smith. Some things out of Margaret's talk that hit me, was to not be defeated twice by our circumstances - once by the circumstance, and once by ourselves. She also compared life to a play, with a director, and each of one of us in our own roles. How our completion of those things we are to do impact others in positive or negative ways. Practice makes progress. How our habits either lead us to condemnation or exaltation.

Sunday school - Karen always does a remarkable job. I have seen so much growth in her in this calling and she just gets better by the day. She now has a new calling at the temple - a coordinator. I always knew she would be someday. She's not fond of change, but what a great assignment for her. She will do magnificent. We had alot of class participation.

Relief Society - Geniel talked about finding joy in spite of our circumstances or because of them. It was a good lesson and again alot of class participation.

I hit the door and Gabbie wouldn't let me rest until I took them for a walk.

All in all, in spite of everything going on in our lives, I'm grateful for everything I've been blessed with.

I couldn't resist myself, one more cool pic of Kristin from Hawaii.

Busyness

So far today I've cleaned the kitchen, the oven (so alright, I just punch a button), walked the dogs, pulled weeds, and mowed the backyard. A much better day than yesterday, but I think I'm done. After I finished I sat out in a chair in the yard and felt the wind blowing on my face and loved the way it made me feel.

Steve's sister emailed a link to me out of the New York Times on kidney disease. I watched (and listened) and it was very interesting and reflects a lot of the same feelings I have (except for I will not at this time opt for transplant.)

http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/03/05/the-voices-of-kidney-disease/

There are some days its just good to be home

I got back from dialysis this morning and decided to get busy in the backyard pulling weeds, etc. I even had Steve pull out the mower for me. Well . . . it only took about 40 minutes when I felt myself get really light headed and had Steve help me back in.

I've been laying down all afternoon. Its been nice to be able to do that. I slept a little at dialysis this morning, but made up for it this afternoon.

I have to work smarter, not necessarily harder. Pace myself . . . tough to do sometimes.

Magic - RootsMagic 4

I signed up to beta test the new update for Roots Magic and love it. Initially I had a bit of a time trying to figure out how to access new family searh ordinances, but once I did, it was like magic. I really love it.

Create Beauty

When I saw my daughter's and her friends' pictures of Hawaii I thought of how beautiful God created this universe. There is so much beauty to be found.

When I went on the internet today, I saw the clip by Elder Uchtdorff on creating beauty and made it my thought for the day.

I have been still pondering over the medicare situation. When at the temple this morning the thought came to me to call my rep at my insurance company. When I got in my car I found she had called and left me a voice message. Coincidental? I think not. I called her right back and she gave me the answer I needed.

When I got home, I had a call from Social Security letting me know they had worked things out at my dialysis center.

I can see the Lord's hands in so many things. I have so much to be thankful for. Again, thank you Father for each new day.

More Pics from Hawaii and Coupons

I have four coupons for diapers at $1.00 off on Pampers and another brand. If you want them, please let me know.

My daughter got back today from Hawaii and a friend of hers posted more pics on facebook. So I thought I'd share a few.





Be still my heart. She's so very brave and doesn't hesitate to try anything.

Medicare, Social Security, Insurance, oh my . . .

I've been trying to find out my status for medicare for about the last month. I was told it had already been filed for and that I would begin coverage sometime this month.

I called a couple of weeks ago and they didn't have a record, so I scheduled a phone interview. When I got the call today he said the dialysis center I'm using is not an authorized medicare facility. Yipes!

I've been rolling along feeling very safe and secure and adjusting to changes. This one really set me off. Sigh.

Follow-up - the social worker spoke with me and they are trying to work it out for me to stay at their facility.

I took Gabby to the vet this afternoon to run her labs. Her kidneys are better, but her liver is failing quickly. Sigh . . . she's such a sweetheart.

Poor Benson is going to really miss her when she's gone, as well as Steve and I. When the vet weighed him he'd gained even more weight. When Gabby doesn't eat her share, he finishes it off for her. He looks like a little sausage.

We love them both though. Its really hard to lose them.

Oh the way the Lord shows his love to his children

My daughter just called me from Hawaii. She's out there until Tuesday and is having a great time. I believe the Lord compensates his children. She's not married and yet the Lord has her in a great job and has given her great opportunities.




She sent me some pics and I am attaching them to view.

Stake Conference - Uplifting, thought provoking, and time to take stock

I really enjoyed stake conference today. Dieter Uchtdorf, one of my favorite men spoke. Every time I see him, I remember when he gave me the blessing last year over at the Allen Stake Center. He is a big man and with a really big heart. I remember when I walked into the room where he was, I was so overwhelmed I held my breath until it was all over. He is also incredibly handsome.



Elder Gene R. Cook, Elder Oswald, and Elder Edgley also spoke.

Some of the thoughts that struck a chord with me were the importance of family togetherness. "We each determine what kind of parent we will be."

We must allow ourselves to be visible in the community, too many members are in camoflage. Excellence and quality - defined by how we feel about ourselves.

Important to be separate from evil.
Don't just be a hearer of the word, but a doer.

We are united by our faith in Christ. In the Church we are never alone.

Study Preach my Gospel. Use as a tool in family home evening. As we study it, we will strengthen our testimony and become better people.

Rely on the Spirit.

Set goals based on what we wish the outcomes to be.

CTR - Current Temple Recommend.

Pitch our tents toward the temple and away from Sodom.

As we purify our lives, the Spirit will speak to each of us individually. Once we receive personal revelation, act upon it.

Each day we should ask "what are we personally doing to increase our faith"? "What are we doing daily to strengthen our families?"

From Pres. Uchtdorf - Three things that we must be doing.

1. Hold a temple recommend - this will increase our faith and strengthen our families.
2. Study the word of God daily.
3. Speak with God daily.

Find out which areas of our lives need course correction.

Elder Edgley spoke about the son of a couple he knew who wound up in prison for the rest of his life. He wound up in solitary confinement. While there, he read the entire Book of Mormon and Doctrine and Covenants. Elder Edgley was corresponding with him and the young man wrote him about how he wished he had read the scriptures earlier in his life. How grateful he was for the Savior.

How do our challenges define our lives? Out of pain and suffering, the Savior gives hope. He will take our yoke and give us peace.

I walked a mile with Pleasure,
She chattered all the way;
But left me none the wiser
For all she had to say.

I walked a mile with Sorrow,
And ne'er a word said she,
But oh, the things I learned from her
When sorrow walked with me.

Robert Hamilton Browning

Elder Oswald spoke about the Whitmer family. With all they had given to them spiritually, because they chose not to follow their leaders, they went into apostasy.

Listen and give heed to the Spirit.
Focus on the spiritual rather than the wordly.
Listen and follow leaders.

Weeds

Its too cold and windy to do anything about it, but my backyard is loaded with weeds. I'm really thinking seriously about digging it all up and putting gravel down. We're going to build my elevated garden box this week to plant my sad indoor plantings.

My brother in law is at it again and sent me a link for his new video on you tube and I have attached it.

Class is finished

I made it thru my second week of class. Today was the last day. Hooray! I had a really good teacher and I learned alot. But I'm glad its done. Between the dialysis, my shift at the temple today, and class, I'm beat.

I am so grateful. The Lord has really watched over us. We're still making it. Steve had his interview today, but we won't know anything for a week or two. My disability starts tomorrow and it will make things alot easier.

I love my husband. There have been nearly 16 years with many challenges. But his sweet nature and loving concern has made it all worth it. He's always been there for my kids without question. I do love him much.

Video of Steve's brother

Steve's brother lives in Idaho and is quite talented. He made a video of him singing and I've attached the video. Its really quite good.



Just finished dialysis and it went well. I'm surviving the 6:00 a.m. thing and finding it nice to still have a full day. Thanks Dyann for the suggestion.

Inside Out

I got up this morning, ate a bowl of cereal, and rushed to change my clothes to get to my hair appointment. Heidi always does a great job and I always look forward to my appointment. Last week when my son had surgery, I came home and forgot my appointment. I thought then she must really think I'm dingy. Well today I proved it. When I got home from my appointment, I looked in the mirror and realized my t-shirt was on inside out!

Several years ago on a BYU broadcast I saw Lucille Johnson speak. She spoke of a time she had a speaking assignment at a womens conference and because she was late and on a phone call, her husband rushed her out of the door. As she was walking into the conference the women were asking her if she was ok. After she got up and spoke and the conference finished, she got in the car and pulled down the visor and saw her reflection in the mirror. She screamed. She teases her hair and it was still all teased up. She had never combed it out. I know younger adults will probably not get the picture, but some of the older will. Although my embarrasment will not match hers at that moment, it was still bad enough.

Steve has a couple of job interviews today. My daughter's gone on another BYU trip to Hawaii. Lucky girl.

Last night I ironed Steve's shirts. I haven't ironed a shirt in nearly 40 years. I was so ambitious I even ironed a tablecloth that Steve's mom used to use. Its been tucked in a drawer for nearly ten years. The most significant thing about this was that I had the energy to do so. If anyone fears dialysis, don't. It makes such a difference in the way you feel.

A Really Good Day

My sister came to Dallas today to see me. She flew to Texas to help her brother-in-law and sister-in-law pack and they drove her up to spend the afternoon here. We had a wonderful visit and I was so grateful to spend time with her.

We fixed a nice dinner and my son and his wife came over to eat with us. We had a really nice time and it was good that they all got to see each other.

A Whole New Day

A whole day today to do what I want. I'm so grateful. No dialysis. No errands. Just time to do with as I want and need. What a blessing.

A little chilly here, but I did manage to get the dogs out for a walk this morning.

Gabby's back

We nearly lost one of our pups last week. Gabby started throwing up and became dehydrated and shut down. I took her to her vet and after a few days they sent her home. She's been very weak and mostly nonresponsive. The last two days she's been bouncing back. Today she was completely back. Yeah! I hope she stays with us for a while longer. She's nearly 14 so I know she's old, but she's been with us since she was a puppy.

I got back from dialysis and took them for a walk and she's did amazingly well.

One more day under the belt. Monday my dialysis starts at 6 a.m.- yikes.

Gratitude

I went to the temple this morning and worked at the family file desk. On the way back, I stopped by a friend of Steve's house to see him. He was doing some electrical work over there. They had a huge amount of patterned concrete work. I couldn't help but think how beautiful it looked and went into the backyard to see the driveway and the work done on it. The lady of the house had nothing to do but complain about the work that had been done. Several years ago her flooring company had put flooring in our house. It was strange to hear her complain and go on about the very feelings I had about the work done in our house on our tile. All these years later I still have grout in places on my floor I can't get out. Anyway, it brought me to think about how I need to be grateful for the things I have and not focus on the negatives.



So I'm attaching a picture of beginning plants I started in the house. I'm going to be curious to see how it works once they're planted outside.



My sister did me a huge thing today. She sent me a sizable check. Totally unrequested. I was so surprised and called her. She just knew that we're struggling and wanted to help. At Christmas we had a surprise on our front porch. Someone had secret santa'd us with gift cards from WalMart and Albertsons. My feelings were similar in both actions. Totally grateful.

Back to school!

I started a class last night at the local junior college. Its only for two weeks, but its four hours three nights a week for two weeks. I came home exhausted! I'm taking a Quickbooks class. Trying to prepare for what may be the eventuality. Jobs are not showing up for Steve and since he's 60, I don't think he'll want a job working on the roads. So, we need to find our own path and it may mean putting him back in business for himself.

Anyway, it felt good to be learning again.

I planted seeds in a indoor planterbox for a garden . . . they're growing I just hope they'll produce once they're outside. The squash looks really good. The zucchini looks really god, but the plantings that came from the tomato seeds look really strange.

Stephen

My son was rear ended back in March at a stoplight and has suffered with pain since. He's had multiple injections, gone through physical therapy, has amassed a huge amount of medical bills, his injuries have affected him at work and emotionally. This morning they did another procedure burning the nerves in his back. I hope this takes care of his pain level. He's only 35.

My daughter takes off next week to Hawaii for work. I'm happy for her. She works so hard and tries to do the right. I'm glad she has opportunities to do things I've never had.

Update

Just got back from dialysis. It went well and my dry weight was down to 85.8. This is good. I think I must be losing some weight because I've not been eating near as much.

I see so many different people in dialysis at various stages of life. There are many who are elderly and to me, exercise a great deal of courage to be coming at that stage in life. One comes in a wheelchair and her husband sits with her the entire time she's there. Another one has struggled because her access hasn't done well by her.

The center is filling up fast. So fast they're having to add another shift and that moves my time to 6:00 a.m. Good thing its close to home. Maybe I'll get to sleep. I've not been able to so far. There's always the possibility . . .

I'm trying to keep up with putting a thought for the day down on my blog. Hopefully, someone somewhere will find inspiration in them.

Yeah ... my sister called and she is coming in town this weekend to see me. She is so wonderful. I'm glad to claim her as my sis.

Did some indexing tonight on the Arkansas marriage records for new family search. They take longer to do than some of the others. I keep hoping to run across some of my family in the process. So far, no luck though.

I'm so grateful to my Savior for watching over me and carrying me through so far. I hope to keep the faith and trust in him in all things. Thank you for each new day.

Happy Valentine's Day

Wow . . . the year is really moving onward.

Its been a busy, but good week. My energy level is improving.

We found out this week that our oldest pup is on her way out. Gabby has been with us since she was a baby and is now approaching 14. She got really ill this week and we took her to the vet and her kidneys and liver are failing. She's on meds, but we don't know for how long. She has little interest in anything right now but sleeping. She has always been my favorite.

Off to my day! Happy Valentine's Day everyone.

Thursday

It was a good day today. I went to the temple and worked at the family file desk this morning. I came home and walked the dogs, cleaned the kitchen and cooked dinner.

Nice quiet evening.

I got a disk in on Independence County Arkansas on genealogy. I was disappointed though it didn't have near enough information for the cost. I also got a book on doing research with Google.

I'm going to call a branch president tomorrow in Batesville and see if there's anyone in his ward I could hire to do a little research for me.

Another Tuesday

It was a good day. I did alot of research on Independence County, Arkansas. Took Gabby to the groomer, did laundry, and took Benson for a walk.

Watched some tv and now I'm heading to bed.

I've spent alot of time trying to figure out the business of customizing my blog, but haven't got very far with it. I'll get there.

Dialysis tomorrow.

Pepe and Me

My daughter's dog and me.

446
Originally uploaded by http://www.flickr.com/people/gabben/

Saturday

Its been a good day. I managed to get alot finished. Scrubbed floors, did laundry, cleaned the bathroom, washed the sheets.

Then cratered.

I keep trying to find any record I can find on Parthena Johnson. There has got to be a connection somewhere. Four generations back.

Dialysis is going well. The dr. came in yesterday and would like me to reach a point where I can do the dialysis from home. It would be a good thing and I'm sure I can do it. Its just the idea of poking myself.

Steve has been busy this week. Working on Monty's project and a few other side jobs. He is a good man.


Church tomorrow.

Another day

Today has been a good one. The roads were iced over here and yet I made it to dialysis. Dyann came to see me at lunch. What a neat lady she is. She brought me a sandwich and yogurt parfait and just sat and visited with me. I enjoy our visits and find we have more in common each time we visit. I'm so glad she was assigned to be my visiting teaching companion because I've learned to love her as a friend through that calling.

I came home and braved the cold and walked the dogs for a while and then Stephen came over and I went to the mall with him while he bought a cd he wanted.

Tonight, I will just rest. Tomorrow morning I volunteer at the temple and then see an eye dr. in the afternoon. Of all things, I think I am developing cataracts. Just one more thing.

Such is life.

Update

Last week started out great. Steve finally had a job and things were looking up. Unfortunately, they found Steve was too slow. The contractor he does side jobs with said he was "unerringly slow" and that's what he liked about him. It does well on custom remodels just not commercial jobs.

Dialysis is going well. They have me finally stable enough where the cramping has finally stopped. I'm learning that I can't do much on dialysis days without becoming completely exhausted. So I'm trying to balance things out.

Update

Church was good today. I felt lifted by the time I got home.

Its been a quiet afternoon. I read from one of Elder Maxwell's books on Discipleship, did some indexing on two records, and played some Mah Jong.

Took the dogs for a walk before and after church.

We ate dinner and I'm getting ready to get ready for bed. Its been a good day. Its nice to be able to have time to do things to be ready. I can't remember another Sunday when I have felt better prepared for the Sabbath and not completely exhausted to get there.

I actually made it through church without falling asleep, which I have been doing for sometime.

Update

Just finished my second full week of dialysis. Dialysis for me was a whole lot less frightening than the anticipation or expectations. A little skin prick - no problem. I bring my laptop and play Mah Jong and read.

Yesterday my visiting teachers came to see me. Trina and her temporary partner, my good friend, Karen. Dyan Bennett came over at lunch and brought me a salad. It was so neat to have their company and it certainly made the four hours go by faster.

I have more energy than I can remember ever having. Made it 15 minutes this morning on the elliptical ... thats big for me.