Sunday

As we think about the Annie Armstrong Offering for North American Missions, the mission trip for our church members to Canada, and the lost people in North America who need to be told about Jesus, I think this verse is very appropriate.

“Finally, brethren, pray for us,

that the word of the Lord may run swiftly

and be glorified,

just as it is with you.”

~2 Thessalonians 3:1~

Dukes

Blowin Kisses

Yesterday about lunch jason dad and I went to see mom. She was very bright and responsive. She moved all extremities some and her usual nodding her head and smiling. The speech therapist came in just after we arrived and she worked with mom some. Dr. Kelley (Ms) and Ms Vanee were with mom and she was actually already getting some speech therapy. Thanks Ms Rhonda you still have it and she has been practicing some this weekend. Thanks also while I am talking to you for thinking of my family’s food needs this weekend. A thanks to Ms Jane Hunter also. (PS Ms Hunter makes the best pork tenderloin and chicken and sausage gumbo on the planet). Anyway my taste buds digress. Ms Kelly taught me some things mom could practice on. The speech therapist had been with mom earlier that day for a swallowing study and she did ok with thick and solid not real well with liquids especially thin liquids. The therapist will feed her on monday. Yeah more progression. She has had a great weekend I asked her to pucker up and blow dad a kiss and she did. It was great she wouldnot do the triple kiss pucker but it will come. She is for sure positively progressing please keep PRAYING!! Erin and I went back last night to tuck her in and she was again smiles and brightness she enjoyed Erin’s chatter and we had a great visit. She got to see Joshua and James Christofer this am. We went early and she was very bright she responded to them and they were pretty unfazed by her condition. They just saw “Grandma”. They told her they loved her and she responded with a smile. We then took them to the zoo and then pop, Erin and I came back to see her this evening and she was again doing great but tired. Erin told her about dad walking over a half mile today in the student center after our trip to the zoo with the boys, and she rolled her eyes! She is in there people! Her personality is intact. Oh yeah we had voodoo barbaque for lunch. The brisket is great but the corn pudding is divine!! It is on St Charles and if you are here you have to try the corn pudding. Anyway, my taste buds again, Mom is progressing. The Infection Np today stated that her blood was clear but she has Pseudomonas in her lungs but it is sensitive to Levaquin which she has been on for a few weeks. She is running a low grade fever so he will check blood cultures. Please pray for her to have peace and hope and strength as God, the one true God, heals her body and mind and restores her to us. I pray this in the name of Jesus. Pray that they will continue to care for her as well as they have the last few days. Pray that we can move her as soon as possible to a better facility.

Dad is doing great he as I said before he walked over a half mile today and would have walked more but did not want to push it. This morning when I went to get him up and ready he had bathed, had breakfast and was dressed waiting on me. He had already done his home exercise program from therapy. He is doing well and will start rehab week after next. Please pray for his patience and peace for him as this painful process plays out, especially with mom. He has started to work and will teach an internet class if it fills in a few weeks. Jason and I have enjoyed this time with our father tremendously. He is so full of wisdom and generous grace.

Thank all of you for your kindness to us. Thanks to Sandi Byrd for keeping our boys this weekend twice so Erin could go with dad and me to see mom. Thanks for the random starbuck’s cards and other food cards. Thanks for all of your thoughts and prayers even people we have never met who stop us in the mall or pull over and get out of the car and introduce themselves to just say they are praying for mom an dad. The church being the church is how we were intended to live. I am challenged to slow down be controlled and be the church in every way I can. Thanks for the challenge and keep it up.



Dentons

Well as you can see I am up very late. Just a quick update. Joshua and I have been at the ER at Cox South from about 8pm this evening till 2am this morning when we all arrived back home.

Don has been more unstable with his walking since he got back from Barnes. And this afternoon Don fell and hit his head on the nightstand.

After talking with a Barnes doctor we took Don down to Cox South for CAT Scan. Don is OK.

We firmly believe that one of Don’s new meds is causing this kind of reaction. We will talk with his neurologist on Monday to see about getting off of this med or changing it.

So, all three of us are exhausted. I am going to bed.

Please pray for Don that we can get this resolved, which I believe we will be able to.

We were so hoping to be in church tomorrow for the first time in a long time. I have so needed to be there. We are going to miss being there again.

We are so thankful that the fall did not injure Don. And hopefully come Monday we will be able to do something about this medication.

I will post soon.
Diane



Baptist Press

May 22, 2009

IRAQ–Chaplain conveys hope in the face of tragedy. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30545

MISSISSIPPI–Trustees affirm NAMB’s ‘crucial’ role in SBC. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30546

COLORADO–101 new missionaries appointed in Denver. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30547

TENNESSEE–Baptist Press, SBC media receive awards. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30548

TENNESSEE–Study called slanted regarding pro-homosexual mainline clergy. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30549

TENNESSEE–MARRIAGE DIGEST: Same-sex laws jeopardize religious freedom, experts say; … http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30550

TEXAS–School district upholds Bible distribution. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30551

TENNESSEE–FIRST-PERSON (Sara Horn): Remember the sacrifices you don’t always see. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30552

LOUISIANA–FIRST-PERSON (Kelly Boggs): Signs of hope. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30553




LOVING SOMEONE YOU CAN’T STAND

Doctor: “I see you’re over a month late for your appointment. Don’t you know that nervous disorders require prompt and regular attention? What’s your excuse?”

Patient: “I was just following your orders, Doc.”

Doctor: “Following my orders? What are you talking about? I gave you no such order.”

Patient: “You told me to avoid people who irritate me.”

Unfortunately, we don’t always have the option of avoiding people who irritate, people who hurt us, people who offend us. In fact, sometimes those who irritate us the most are found right in our home (or in our church building). So how should we deal with them?

Milton Jones has written a wonderful book entitled “How to Love Someone You Can’t Stand” which I highly recommend (you can find it at Amazon.com). In this book, Jones lists six godly principles which are derived from Romans 12:

(1) Manage Your mouth — Bless and don’t curse (Rom. 12:14)

(2) Put yourself in the other person’s place and try to understand their feelings, thoughts and position (Rom. 12:15)

(3) Never, never, never take revenge (Rom. 12:17)

(4) Plan ahead to do something beautiful (Rom. 12:17)

(5) Don’t just win the war, win the peace (Rom. 12:18)

(6) Make room for God (Rom. 12:19)

The bottom line is that we do not overcome evil with evil by retaliating and seeking to “get even”. The only way to overcome evil is with good (Rom. 12:21). It is never easy to respond to those who do us wrong in a way that is godly, but it is only by following the example of Jesus Christ that we can truly have an influence on the world around us.

“But when you do good and suffer, if you take it patiently, this is commendable before God. For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps…” (I Peter 2:19-20)

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

Pray for holiday travelers and holiday activities.

Anna Lee

Saturday Afternoon

Bro. Frank was a special man and a friend for many years. Please be in prayer for his family.


Rev. Frank E. Danley, Sr.
(May 27, 1926 – May 22, 2009)

U.S. Veteran Died at 2:30PM on Friday, May 22, 2009 at North Oaks Medical Center in Hammond, LA. He was a native of New Orleans, LA and a resident of Independence, LA. Age 82 years. Rev. Danley was Associate pastor at Old Zion Hill Baptist Church, Albany, retired Quality Control Coordinator with the State of Louisiana and was a U. S. Army Air Corps Veteran of WWII. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. on Monday and at Old Zion Hill Baptist Church, Albany, from 12 Noon until religious services at 2 p.m. Tuesday. Services conducted by Rev. Joe Wiggins & Rev. Mitch Williams. Interment Amite Memorial Gardens, Amite, LA. Survived by wife, Elsie McElveen Danley, Independence, 2 daughters, Carol Ruth Danley Stagg and husband Robert, Eunice, Molly Gay Danley Travis and husband Brian, Greensburg, son, Frank E. Danley, Jr. and wife Pamela Swede Danley, Robert, 3 sisters, Bula Hudson, Moss Point, MS, Julia Fay Rushing, Theodore, AL, Olive Jean King, Picayune, MS, 3 brothers, George Lee Ewing, Irvington, AL, James Ewing, Irvington, AL, William Edward Ewing, Coden, AL, 8 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren, 3 step-great-grandchildren. Preceded in death by parents, Epps Underwood Danley and Sylvia Wainwright Ewing, 3 sisters, Elsie Sprinkles, Loretta Slade, Lily Ruth Sprinkles.

Saturday

“Therefore be patient, brethren, until the coming of the Lord.

See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth,

waiting patiently for it until it receives the early and latter rain.”

~James 5:7, NKJV~

Please pray for a very sweet lady, Mrs. Francis Currier. She is in North Oaks.

Dukes Family

< Drago’s at last. >
Dad got to eat oysters at Drago’s. Erik and I had promised to take Dad to his favorite restaurant as soon as he was able to get out and go, and as soon as the three of us were all in town together to do it. Well, last night (Thursday) it happened. Erik and Dad and one of Erik’s friends, John (in town on business), and I had supper at Drago’s.

Like usual at Drago’s, Dad ate char-grilled oysters. Like usual at Drago’s, they were good. At least he said so. Personally, they are not that good. But that’s just me. Erik ate one or two. John ate a few, I think. Now that I think about it, I don’t remember him eating one. But of course, Dad ate plenty for all of us. I combined the four pictures I took into one and posted it here. You can see a larger version and each picture individually on my blog.

Erik and his wife and kids got into town around 5:00 yesterday evening (Thursday). Dad was super excited to see Erik’s four boys. I was, too. I absolutely love their smiles and energy and questions and red hair. They are super special. Erik will be with Mom and Dad over the weekend while I fly home again to see my family. I can’t wait to seem my beautiful wife, my amazing boy, and my enchanting girls. I will be back Sunday night.

Dad seemed like he had a good day yesterday. We awoke yesterday morning in time to make it to his Ortho appointment at the Ochsner Clinic. Great visit. They affirmed that Dad is making good progress. They affirmed that his left wrist is healing well. They affirmed that his right leg is handling weight well. They affirmed that Dad needs to get on with out-patient rehab and aggressively move forward in his occupational and physical therapy.

What really excited Dad was when the doctor told him that he could begin to progressively put weight on his left leg (WHILE STILL IN A LEG BOOT, THOUGH) while he is walking with his walker. This was good news, and meant that his left leg is beginning to heal. One concern was the angle at which his ankles were healing. The doctor said it was too early to tell at this point, but he may need to address it later if it causes major pain in his ankles and knees when he walks.

With regard to concerns, the only one was Dad’s elbow. The doctor said the repair job that the University Hospital surgeons did was awesome, especially considering “the bag of bones” that his elbow and the lower part of his upper arm was (bag of bones was his exact words). He told Dad that it was definitely calcifying and healing, but part of it was coming together where it was not together before. That part was forming a “door stop” of sorts that hindered Dad’s extension and flexion. It will probably have to be surgically repaired in about 6 to 9 months. We will have to see.

After the appointment, Dad and I headed over to see Mom. She was really tired and unresponsive. Dad was discouraged. We sat down together in his room, and I tried to recount to Dad the pattern I had seen in Mom over these almost-seven weeks. I was discouraged, too, I told him, but there has definitely been a pattern of Mom being responsive for about 4 days, and then taking a day to rest. About every fourth or fifth day since she woke from the coma, she had done this – kind of hit the pause button to have a day of rest. If God needed one every seven, then someone with a traumatic brain injury needed one at least every four or five days. That’s what I figured, at least. I reminded him (and myself) that we have to take this a month at a time. Looking back over this past month, Mom has made progress. However, her infection and her fatigue definitely was a cause for rest.

We are trying to get Mom moving forward with treatment. The Brain Injury Rehab Center in Orlando is reviewing Mom’s files to determine whether they will accept her soon. A local hospital here is reviewing them, as well, to see if they will accept her as a transfer if the BIRC in Orlando is not ready for her. We will see. Please pray for wisdom for both those reviewing Mom’s records and for us as we make these decisions.

After we left Mom’s place, we crossed the river and stopped at Super Wal-Mart to pick up a few items, and then headed to the Cafe in the Student Center on the Seminary campus. Dad enjoyed some Ethiopian Harrar coffee, and I enjoyed a white mocha. We also enjoyed hearing that the police report from the accident was finally descriptive of what actually happened. This will definitely help with logistics as we move ahead. Thanks so much to Chester Douglas and Jim Parker for all their hard work in pursuing truth with regard to the report. Y’all mean so much to us.

We sipped coffee and sat and talked for a few minutes with folks who walked up to offer welcome’s and get-well’s to Dad, while waiting for Erik and Erin and their kids to arrive. They did, and boy did Dad light up. They are the best medicine – his grandkids.

Joshua and James Christofer helped Dad exercise with his walker, walking around the atrium of the Student Center. It was fun to watch. Then, each of the four boys wanted a ride in Pop’s lap in his wheelchair, respectively. The older two took turns pushing. It was great to see them. I really love those nephews and my sister-in-law and my brother.

After getting Erin and the boys settled into the apartment, Erik and Dad and I headed to Drago’s. It was special. Watching Dad gloat about how good his favorite restaurant’s oysters are. The only thing that would have made it better would have been Mom, who is a vegetarian, sitting there with us eating a baked potato or something. Smiling at her man enjoying oysters at Drago’s.

That day will come.

Tonight, I get to see my bride and kids. Speaking of Jen – she absolutely amazes me. She already did, even before all of this. My love and fondness grows daily as she loves on the kids and keeps things moving at home without me, without complaint, with a joyous heart. I love you, babe.

Erik and Dad and I just finished some coffee together, this morning. I am uploading this from the Cafe in the Student Center. We are about to upload him in the truck and head across the river to see Mom. I am hoping she makes Dad gloat this morning more than those oysters did last night. I am hoping he will be encouraged.

Thanks for your continued prayers and your many notes. I AM TELLING YOU – THOSE NOTES GRIP DAD AND LIFE HIM UP. HE BRAGS ON THEM. Please keep them coming. He pulls them up, reads them, takes a break to wipe his eyes, and reads some more. You are encouraging him so much in that way. I am thankful for this site.

Erik will probably post at you over the weekend. I will fly back in Sunday night and post at you Monday. Love y’all.

-jason


Infant Mary-Margaret Hendry
(May 20, 2009 – May 20, 2009)

Infant Mary-Margaret Hendry

Infant Mary-Margaret Hendry was born May 20, 2009 and passed away on May 20, 2009 at 10:23 p.m., May 20, 2009 at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond.

She is survived by her parents, Travis L. & Hannah Lopinto Hendry, Amite; a sister, Emily Hendry, Mt. Hermon; maternal grandparents, Frank & Mary Lopinto, Amite; paternal grandfather, Patrick Hendry, Chesbrough; maternal great-grandmothers, Carolyn Bel, Bolivar, MO & Josie DePhillips, Amite; numerous aunts, uncles, and extended family.

She was preceded in death by paternal grandmother, Margaret Welch Hendry.

Private funeral services will be held at a later date.

An on-line Guestbook is available at http://www.mckneelyvaughnfh.com

McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements.

Joy Forbes Sanders
(June 18, 1925 – May 21, 2009)


Joy Forbes Sanders

Died at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, May 21, 2009 at her residence in the East Fork Community, LA. She was a native of Kentwood, LA. Age 83 years. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. on Sunday and from 9 a.m. until religious services at 11 a.m. on Monday. Services conducted by Rev. Mike Shumock and Rev. Leon Dunn. Interment East Fork Cemetery, East Fork Community, LA. She is survived by her 2 sons, Paul E. Sanders and wife, Ann, Hammond and Roger Dale Sanders, East Fork Community; 4 grandsons, Steve Sanders and wife, Elisabeth, Shannon Sanders and wife, Lynette, Ricky Sanders and wife, Cindy, and Blane Sanders and wife, Denise; 10 great-grandchildren, Dale, Danny, Kristopher, Seth, Jesse, Cole, Garrett, Breann, Brayden and Logan Sanders; 3 great-grandchildren, Raelyn, Blaise and Kirsdyn Sanders. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jessie Mack Sanders; parents, Jessie and Nora Dykes Forbes; grandson, Nicholas Sanders; 3 sisters, Juanita Strickland, Vertie Tally and Nelvie Pritchard; brother, Hurlmon Forbes.

Thomas H. Anthony
(November 4, 1949 – May 22, 2009)

Thomas H. Anthony

VIEW VIDEO TRIBUTE

Thomas Anthony a resident of Loranger was born November 4, 1949 and passed away at 4:17 a.m., Friday, May 22, 2009 surrounded by his family. Thomas was 59 and a native of Tangipahoa Parish. Thomas was a lifelong musician having started with his brother, Bobby and later playing with several local music groups.

Thomas is survived by his daughters, Tammy Anthony Baker and husband, Brian, and Tricia Mylet Anthony, both of Tickfaw; his son, Thomas Trent Anthony and wife, Brittany, Tickfaw; 4 grandchildren, Tyler Anthony Baker, Blake Matthew Baker, Brooke Catherine Baker and Tristan Elizabeth Miles; 6 brothers, Edgar Lee Anthony, Hezzie Anthony, Jr., Elzie Gene Anthony, and Ronnie Anthony all of Loranger, Bobby Lee Anthony, Hammond, and Kenneth James Anthony, Tickfaw; a sister, Alice Anthony Johnson, Pearlington, MS; and many nieces and nephews.

Thomas was preceded in death by his mother, Myrtis Louise Baham Anthony, his father, Hezzie Anthony, Sr.; his sister, Mary Maxine Anthony Hawkins, grandparents, Augustine Baham, Lizzie Anthony Baham, Millard Anthony, Sr. and Elizabeth C. Ard.

Visitation will be at the McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, on Saturday, May 23, 2009 from 6:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and on Sunday, May 24, 2009 after 1:00 p.m. until Religious Services in the Funeral Home Chapel at 2:00 p.m. with Pastor Frank S. Palmisano of Lighthouse Baptist Church officiating. Interment in the Driftwood Baptist Church Cemetery, Folsom.

An on-line Guestbook is available at http://www.mckneelyvaughnfh.com

McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, is located at I-55N & Hwy- 16W behind Grand Prix Car Wash & Bond Eye Clinic

KneEmail
“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow…” Philippians 2:10
Mike Benson, Editor
THREE PEOPLE WERE visiting the Grand Canyon — a painter, a preacher, and a cowboy…
Looking over the massive canyon, each one verbalized his observation:
“Incredible!” the painter said. “I’d love to paint a picture of this!”
The preacher waved his arms and cried, “Glory! Look what God has done!”
The cowboy exclaimed, “I’d sure hate to lose a cow down there!”
What do you see when you look at your situation? An illustration of God’s handiwork, or just someplace to lose a cow? (Stan Towler)
Finally, brethren, whatever things are true,
whatever things are noble,
whatever things are just,
whatever things are pure,
whatever things are lovely,
whatever things are of good report, i
f there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—
meditate on these things.”
Philippians 4:8
Rain or shine, make the most of this day the Lord has provided for us.
Anna Lee

Friday

“Rejoice always,

pray without ceasing,

in everything give thanks;

for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”

~1 Thessalonians 5:16-18~

Grady Brecheen’s surgery went wll yesterday morning. He will be hospitalized for about a week before he is released to come home. Please keep him in your prayers.

Infant Mary-Margaret Hendry
(May 20, 2009 – May 20, 2009)

Infant Mary-Margaret Hendry

Infant Mary-Margaret Hendry was born May 20, 2009 and passed away on May 20, 2009 at 10:23 p.m., May 20, 2009 at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond.

She is survived by her parents, Travis L. & Hannah Lopinto Travis, Amite; a sister, Emily Hendry, Mt. Hermon; maternal grandparents, Frank & Mary Lopinto, Amite; paternal grandfather, Patrick Hendry, Chesbrough; maternal great-grandmothers, Carolyn Bel, Bolivar, MO & Josie DePhillips, Amite; numerous aunts, uncles, and extended family.

She was preceded in death by paternal grandmother, Margaret Welch Hendry.

Private funeral services will be held at a later date.

An on-line Guestbook is available at http://www.mckneelyvaughnfh.com

McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements.

Donald Ray “Donnie” Fairburn
(August 10, 1958 – May 21, 2009)

Donald Ray “Donnie” Fairburn was born August 10, 1958 and passed away at 5:30 p.m., May 21, 2009 at his residence in Denham Springs. He was 50, a native of Covington and former resident of Amite. He is the son of Mrs. Evelyn Cox Crawford of Denham Springs the late Bobby Lee Fairburn, Sr.

Visitation will be at the McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, on Friday, May 22, 2009 from 5:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and on Saturday, May 23, 2009 from 8:00 a.m. until Religious Services in the Funeral Home Chapel at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Walter Mixon officiating. Interment in the Allison Cemetery, Folsom, LA.

An on-line Guestbook is available at http://www.mckneelyvaughnfh.com

McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, is located at I-55N & Hwy-16W behind Grand Prix Car Wash & Bond Eye Clinic.

Joy Forbes Sanders
(June 18, 1925 – May 21, 2009)

Died at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, May 21, 2009 at her residence in the East Fork Community, LA. She was a native of Kentwood, LA Age 83 years. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. on Sunday and from 9 a.m. until religious services at 11 a.m. on Monday. Services conducted by Rev. Mike Shumock and Rev. Leon Dunn. Interment East Fork Cemetery, East Fork Community, LA. She is survived by her 2 sons, Paul E. Sanders and wife, Ann, Hammond and Roger Dale Sanders, East Fork Community; 4 grandsons, Steve Sanders, Shannon Sanders, Ricky Sanders and Blane Sanders; 10 great-grandchildren, Dale, Danny, Kristopher, Seth, Jesse, Cole, Garrett, Breann, Brayden and Logan Sanders; 3 great-grandchildren, Raelyn, Blaise and Kirsdyn Sanders. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jessie Mack Sanders; parents, Jessie and Nora Dykes Forbes; grandson, Nicholas Sanders; 3 sisters, Juanita Strickland, Vertie Tally and Nelvie Pritchard; brother, Hurlmon Forbes.

Don Denton

If you are not up for a long read, you may want to bypass this one:

I wanted to update you all. Don is getting stronger everyday. He started back with physical therapy. Our physical therapist is Dot H. at SBU. She is helping Don now since our insurance company is no longer paying for much needed physical therapy.

Our insurance company is changing as well and we will have to meet our “out of pocket” all over again this year. This means twice in one year. It is such a hard hit when there is a catastrophic event such as ours.

Now that this is out of the way. We are so glad to be home from the hospital again. Don is making strides. WE are hoping to see changes in the way of his dizziness; the medication he is on will have one more week before we can tell if there is a difference.

Joshua is readjusting to routine again as well. He seems to be doing well with this.

I can’t believe summer is almost here. This first five months of this year have been met with hospital stays each month. We are also praying that this was the last hospital stay for Don. He so wants that too.

Since late winter Don, Joshua and I have been dreaming about this summer and what we would do. We have hoped to go to Texas to see my sister in law Lynn and brother. She herself has battled four occurrences of cancer. She is a special aunt to Joshua. We have dreamed of taking a camping trip and hiking again. All of these are losses we have to work through. Hopes and dreams each of us live for as a family that come to a hault. And my dream of a big vegatable garden this year, which is theraputic for me. All of these dreams are places we are having to “let go”. I have a choice in what I am going to do with this. So a new way of looking at our life has come about and it is a good thing.

Now I find myself talking with Josh about ” our first lemonade stand” in our driveway this summer with Joshua. He is so excited. He can’t wait till he has his first lemonade stand. I just love it. I love the wonder in Joshua eyes and his “happy go lucky” skip he has when he walks. He is a delight to us. God is so good to us. And in the “big picture” this is what life is about. Life with each other and relationships. Not living on what it could have been, but what is right here and now.

And Don, he is an amazing person to watch. He continues to push through the challenges that face him each day. I am amazed at his character and his patience. I have never experienced someone in my life that has the determination to rise above this terrible disease as best as he can to “be present” with Joshua and myself.

As I have said many times, this very hard event in our life has brought the worst and the best out in me. It is a ever present reminder of how I have to “come to and end of myself” each day. Letting go of what was and learning to take on a new way of life for us has it’s challenges.

Loss and waiting are my two least favorite places to be in my life. All I can say is that God is full of grace and mercy. I don’t deserve God’s grace or mercy. Yet, I know it is there for me. I have been faced with more challenges and obstacles than I could have ever imagined.

But the one Constance is that we are a family and God IS with us. We have each other. Don is with us! And in that I give thanks to God! It could be so much worse.

I have to learn to quit complaining. Some days I just feel so sorry for myself. So pray for me in this way.

It is easy to fall into the pattern of “being a victim”. What a test for me. I hate tests! Don’t we all. I was rushing to get in my car this morning…as I am house watching a friends home, taking care of her garden, cat, fish and snail. And it came to me. I don’t like my life right now. And this small voice said….look at what you have! It is everything you ever wanted. It is so true. We have everything we could have ever imagined barring this illness and the unbelieveable medical bills. That part of it we could do without. Perspective helps me to see the big picture.

Well I have rambled on again. As you can see, when I don’t write for days, I then write a book. Sorry for the length of this one.

Thank you dear, dear precious ones in Christ. Thank you for your love and steadfast prayer for Don, Joshua and I. We are most grateful to you.

My email address has changed: dianed4@windstream.net

Bless you
Diane

Thanks to all who purchased tickets for the fish dinner. You’re helping a team go to Canada next month for a mission trip. They will be doing VBS, sports camp, revival, etc.

There is a bloood drive tomorrow at FBC. Call the church office today for more information.

Have a wonderful day!

Anna Lee

Thursday

Pray for Grady Brecheen as he has surgery today at North Oaks.

Pray for Mrs. Parmys Stegall as she spend her weeks at rehab in Greensburh and her weekends at home.

Pray for Mrs. Estelle Raborn who is in North Oaks following a stent implant.

Continue to pray for Mrs. Kathryn Kuss and her family as adjustments are made.

Please continue to pray for the Harrells as they address continuing health issues.

Pray for Martha Traylor as she has nerve tests today in Hammond.

Pray for the Hatchels as they prepare to move from Brno to Prague on June 8th.

FBC, Kentwood will be serving fish dinners today as a fund raiser for a mission trip to Canada. You may pick up your dinners by the State Farm office on highway 51.

Have a great day!

Anna Lee

Wednesday Afternoon

Cindy Knight Edwards continued to do well following her heart surgery. She has been at her parents’ home, but is ready for the move to her ownd home. Pray for her as she continues to get well.


Dukes

< Mom needs a lift. >
When Dad and I arrived to see Mom this morning, she was in the PT room. She was sitting in a reclining wheelchair with some support. She had been working with the trainers for over an hour at that point, and she was visibly tired.

They finished up and wheeled her back to her room. There, they lifted her out of her wheelchair and back into bed. The picture shown is her being lifted in the special device. She was sitting on a green canvas wrap while in the wheelchair. This canvas wrap was then folded up around her and strapped onto the special lifter. She was lifted up and over and into bed. She seemed ready to rest.

Her doctor came in soon after. He gave us an update, filling us in on some stuff we learned late yesterday evening. Mom’s bedsore on her bottom seems to be actually getting better, we are told. So does her head sore. However, we are also told that the bedsore on her bottom had gotten so deep that it caused an infection in Mom’s tailbone. They found it with a bone scan Monday. They have attacked it with meds and treatment. Osteomyelitis along with the other infection her body is battling is very serious. Please pray for those infections to heal.

Dad and I suggested that the doctor take a 2nd look at Mom’s swallowing and breathing and speech. We felt like they were not being proactive enough with her in those areas. Our reasoning was that the sooner she can get rid of the tracheotomy and the sooner she can eat real food and the sooner her lungs get stronger, the sooner she can communicate and move and get progressively better in all areas. Please pray for her to have the drive to do that.

The doctor agreed, relaying that Mom seemed slightly malnourished. He ordered some cultures to assess her infections. He ordered more aggressive speech therapy. He ordered more aggressive respiratory therapy. He ordered an intensive swallow study to ensure Mom’s safety moving forward. Depending on the result of that study, he order fed her to be partially fed. Please pray for Mom to handle all those tests well.

Speech therapy and Dad and I tried to coerce Mom to talk this morning. She didn’t. She did say “Ahhh.” That’s better than nothing! We asked her why she didn’t want to talk? Did it hurt? She said it did. I asked her did it hurt or was it uncomfortable? She nodded at uncomfortable. We tried to coach her through it, telling her it is going to be uncomfortable while she tries to get used to it again. She agreed, tried real hard, but nothing. Please pray for Mom to grow in strength in her vocals and throat to breath and talk soon.

We are reexamining whether keeping Mom in her current location is the best for her care. We can’t move her to Orlando yet with her infections, because the center in Orlando won’t take her with those infections. So, we are seeking counsel on other options from some trusted medical folks here in town whom we know. Please pray for us to have wisdom in that regard.

Dad seemed really discouraged when we left Mom today. I tried to encourage him, reassuring him that Mom is going to have good days and bad days for a while to come. She really has only been unclear and less responsive when she has been fatigued, I told him. She has really been doing well, I told him. Even the therapists had communicated how responsive she was the first half of therapy this morning. I really tried to encourage him to stay positive.

Don’t tell him, but I was encouraging myself at the same time. Most days I am able to stay positive. However, after the run-in I had with Mom’s caretakers yesterday afternoon (we had a little talk about how attentive and communicative they have been in her care) and after the lack of clarity today, it is tough. I know we will make it. I know that. Just venting. Just being honest.

“Let not your heart be troubled,” Jesus said. He told His followers there would be days like these. But take heart, “for I have overcome the world.” I know that.

What that doesn’t mean is it’s going to be all right. Yeah – God is in control. I am not doubting that. But things don’t always work out like we want them to. Who wanted Mom and Dad to get hit by a Ford Expedition? And things aren’t promised to “be ok” for us. In fact, Jesus seemed to warn the opposite. His promise was that He’d be with us, not that He’d make it all okay for us.

He gives and takes away. Blessed be the name of the Lord.

Jesus, thank you for holding us through all of this. Thanks for good days and bad. Draw us closer to love and closer to each other and closer to Your heart. Please continue to heal Mom and Dad. Shine your light in her and in Dad and in us. Share your hope and promises through us. Your good news that even in difficult times, and there will be difficult times, and even in times where hope is thin, You are near. Your nearness never fades, and how You blossom togetherness among us is uplifting. Thank you Jesus.

And, man, does Mom need a lift today. Not just with that special device either.

Wednesday

“But godliness with contentment is great gain.

For we brought nothing into the world,

and we can take nothing out of it.”

~1 Timothy 6:6-7 NIV~

Baptist Press
May 19, 2009

WASHINGTON–‘Call 2 Fall’ issued for July 5. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30520

OKLAHOMA–Okla., Minn. take stand against cloning. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30521

TENNESSEE–Unhealthy SBC needed ‘shock’ of GCR declaration, Hunt says. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30522

GEORGIA–Church care plan for chaplains unveiled. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30523

TENNESSEE–RESOURCE: Multi-site churches entail challenges, rewards. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30524

KENTUCKY–FIRST-PERSON (Stephen Douglas Wilson): Southern Baptists need methodological diversity. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30525

Mrs. Iris Wood Conerly
(August 24, 1915 – September 19, 2009)

Mrs. Iris Wood Conerly was born August 24, 1915 and passed away at 6:35 p.m., Tuesday, May 19, 2009 at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. Mrs. Iris was 93, a native & resident of Amite her entire life. She was a member of the First Southern Methodist Church in Amite and also was retired from the Tangipahoa Parish Clerk of Court Office after 35 years and 11 months service.

Mrs. Iris is survived by her son, Marc Conerly, and wife Nancy, of Amite.

Arrangements are incomplete at this time.

An on-line Guestbook is available at http://www.mckneelyvaughnfh.com

McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, is located at I-55n & Hwy 16W behind Grand Prix Car Wash & Bond Eye Clinic.

KneEmail

Affluenza

greatphysiciana2.jpgTHE 1918 INFLUENZA epidemic was the most destructive in history…

It is estimated that more than 20 million people world-wide perished of the flu in a few months and more than 50 times as many were sick. In the US, 548,000 died. In India, 12,500,000 people or 4% of the entire population are said to have died.

Medical research and technology now routinely protects us against diseases that wiped out entire families, neighborhoods, and even cities. But another epidemic is taking a tremendous toll on our families. It is not influenza; it is affluenza.

Its symptoms include:
. A reaching for more and more, in spite of what we have.
. An insatiable drive to be successful.
. A chronic lack of contentment.
. A consistent choosing of career over family relationships.
. An overscheduled, overloaded life that leaves no room for significant time with spouse, children and true devotion to God. (Steve and Mary Farrar)

For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.” 1 Timothy 6:7

Posted by Mike Benson

Don’t forget the fish lunch cooked by Buie tomorrow at FBC, Kentwood. Call the church office for tickets. The cost is $7.00 with the profits going to support a mission trip to Canada this summer. Pray for those who will be ministering and those who will be ministered to.

Have a great day!

Anna Lee

Tuesday Afternoon

Jimmy and Retia Dukes

< Dad got discharged. >
New Orleans was chilly Sunday night. The front that soaked the city had passed when I landed, although the wind had not. 30 mph winds and a wet runway made landing like Thunder Mountain at Magic Kingdom. It was all good, though. I was here and on the way to see Dad.

He had eaten. I brought him a late-night latte, and we watched the 2nd half of the Orlando Magic game together. They took the Celtics in 7 games. Lebron here we come!!! Should be a good series for those of you who follow basketball.

Monday morning, Uncle Danny dropped Dad’s coffee off and made sure he had eaten breakfast and gotten dressed for therapy. So, I headed over to see Mom. On the way, my phone rang off the hook. Insurance people and case workers and Erik were calling to discuss logistics regarding Dad’s discharge from the in-patient rehab facility. He was discharged Monday afternoon.

Monday morning, beforehand, we were talking through what was next. Will we have Home Health Rehab come to Dad’s guest room on the Seminary campus and work him out? Will we transport Dad to Out-Patient Rehab across town?

Well, we decided to do nothing. You might find that funny, but Dad’s doctor said he thought neither was a good option right now while we were waiting for Mom to transfer. Home Health Rehab would be limited because of where Dad was staying. Out-Patient Rehab would be limited until Dad could put weight on his left leg. So, he asked me to work Dad out some and for Dad to do some exercises himself.

His next Orthopedic appointment is this Thursday at 9. His doctor may clear him on his left leg, and he may not. We will see, and that will determine when Dad moves forward with Out-Patient Rehab. He wants to stay aggressive on it, and Erik and I want him to. He is doing so well.

We got the discharge orders around 4:30. I had driven Dad’s truck over from the Seminary so that we could fit all his new toys – a platform walker, a potty chair, a shower chair, his wheelchair, his new Justice League attire. All things that every man wants and should save for, especially if you ever have a long stay in the hospital and can’t get up to go pee. Pretty cool.

Dad moved to the Seminary motel. It’s called the Providence Guest House. Thanks to Bob and Linda and their staff for setting up the room. It is completely wheelchair accessible and handicap equipped. We unloaded Dad’s stuff and headed out to get a bite to eat and pick up some prescriptions.

Dad had mentioned the corn grits from Zea’s out in Metairie. We had to go to Target to add to his wardrobe anyway, so we went there. Wow! The corn grits were great. It was great to take Dad out to eat for the first time in 44 days.

44 Days. Has it really been 44 days? Some days it seems like it couldn’t be that long. Some days it seems like it has been longer. Someone commented on Facebook that the accident was on 4/4, and 44 days later, Dad was out.

Shopping with Dad is always fun. He loves it! Not really. He is more of a get-in-get-out kind of guy. We were looking for a few specific things, so that helped. Jogging pants. I found him some that were on clearance and kind of looked like slacks. His pain pills. Target pharmacy had those but not his other meds. We had to go to Walgreen’s for that one. A cheap laundry basket. Just to help me collect and carry his clothes to wash them. And a Ghostbuster’s T-Shirt. Well, didn’t need that one. But I thought Dad would look good in it.

I got the weary traveller back to his room and tucked in bed just before 10. Then, I headed to hit the hay, too.

On Monday, I only got to see Mom one time about midday. Dad preparing to be discharged and then being discharged kept me busy. Mom was doing well, though. Still had her cast on. If they don’t take it off today (Tuesday), I think I may carve at it with my car key until it falls off. Her bedsores are getting better. Even the one on her bottom. She half-smiled at me a lot, but seemed really tired.

I love seeing her. She is one of those women, like my wife, who is not capable of being anything but beautiful. Regardless of the state of her hair and what she has on and whether she looks made up, the beauty she exudes from her eyes that flows from her heart and is expressed in her smile never fades. Even after 67 years. She is amazing. I would like to think I got her skin and look, but I think I was plagued…oh, I mean blessed to have my Dad’s look. At least his bald head. That’s one way Mom and I look alike right now.

I am writing this on Tuesday morning from Cafe New Orleans in the student center on the New Orleans Seminary campus. Dad is meeting with three colleagues about teaching and student stuff. Yeah – one day discharged, and he’s back at it. I will be limiting him to one and a half meetings per day, but only on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. SO, have your people call my people.

Seriously, bringing him over here this morning, I didn’t know what to expect or who we would see. WOW, was Dad overwhelmed in a good way. Thanks to the over 100 people who heard word Dad was in the Cafe and took the time to come over. And thanks to the awesome folks there at the Cafe who brewed him some “Midnight Train” as soon as we rolled in. That’s Dad’s special blend here. Pretty neat. I hate it. It’s about as thick as twice reused motor oil. I think they use it to coat the bottom of the Space Shuttle, so that the tiles stay put for reentry. Anyway, it was amazing to watch Dad’s face when each person welcomed him back with exuberance and a gentle hug.

He just got pushed back here from his meeting. We are going to grab a quick bite and head over to see Mom. Then, this afternoon, we will get Dad walking a bit for exercise.

I am thankful for this time. It is hard. But it is rich. Togetherness really makes life beautiful, no matter how ugly the circumstance.

Please pray for Mom’s infection to heal. Please pray for her mind to keep healing everyday. It is going to be a long road before we can even determine where Mom will end up mentally and emotionally. Please pray for her bedsores. Please pray for the people who care for her there at the hospital to have wisdom and attentiveness.

Please pray for Dad. I think he is excited about having more freedom. I am proud of him for how hard he is working to get better. Please pray for his heart. You can pray for its physical health, but I mean Dad’s heart and outlook and feelings and perspective. Pray for him to have peace and comfort as he thinks of the accident, of Mom, of the guy who hit them, of the future, of the bills, and of the difficult road to recovery. He is doing better and better physically. He is beginning to more deeply process everything mentally and emotionally. Thanks for your prayers for him in that way.

I will post at you later. I reassured Dad yesterday that we are definitely walking through this alone. You all have been amazing. You are amazing, how you are being the church together to us.

Well, gonna head to get a bite and to see Mom. Love y’all.
-jason

Tuesday

“You can be sure that God

will take care of everything you need,

His generosity exceeding even yours

in the glory that pours from Jesus.”

~Philippians 4:19 MSG~


Mr. Walter Green Harper continues to progress since his heart surgery last week. Plans are being made for rehab when he is ready. The family is hoping he will be in Hammond for that. Continue to pray for Mr. Walter Green and “Miss” Maxine.


Ellen Trappey is taking a group for a former college where she was on staff to Equador. Pray for them as they travel.


Don Denton

Good morning! Sorry for the delay on update with Don. Once we arrived home from St. Louis, I went into “warp” speed mode to get the house ready and the party ready for birthday.

It was an exciting event for us. We had ballons everywhere and Joshua had one of his buddy’s over during the day. The time came for the party and we ended up having about 37 people arrive for the party. It was a celebration in many ways I should say. A celebration most important of Joshua’s birth. And then to see the faces of dear friends was the icing on the cake for me.


We are working toward getting back into routine again. It takes time to finally get unpacked and situated again. Don is very tired as expected. He is very weak with being in the hospital for the length of time that he was.

I hope to get him back into rehab again. His meds are not working to the level that we hope they will. It will take another week or two before that happens. Please pray that these meds will help Don with his dizziness.

I am working at getting more sleep these days. I have allot going on with getting back into routine, working and keeping everything running so to speak.

It is beautiful here. I love Spring and the weather just does something to me. I love it.

We have several doctor appointments this week. Pray that Don will be able to get back into rehab soon.

I will post soon.
Diane

Baptist Press
May 18, 2009

PAKISTAN–Pakistan fighting drives 1 million from homes. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30512

TENNESSEE–Video details torture Chinese Christian endured. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30513

WASHINGTON–Pro-lifers: Obama policies deny ‘common ground.’ http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30514

MISSOURI–Q&A: Huckabee urges pro-life efforts. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30515

ALABAMA–Job Corps training changes lives. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30516

GEORGIA–Baptist Men, RA numbers jump 6 percent in 2008. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30517

TENNESSEE–Disaster relief pioneer Archie King dies. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30518

KENTUCKY–FIRST PERSON (R. Albert Mohler Jr.): Should Christians ‘respect’ other religions? http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30519

KneEmail
“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow…” (Philippians 2:10).
Mike Benson, Editor
NOTHING IS WORSE than the memory of a mistake…
It is like a haunting specter, hovering over your shoulder, constantly whispering one word in your ear: “Shame.” You find it hard to laugh, to hope, to dream. You know what you did. You know the pain you have caused. You cannot believe what you have allowed yourself to become.
Well, God has promised to set us free from our past and allow us to say, “I am JUST-IF-I’D NEVER SINNED!” Read Romans 3 and 4 and focus on this blessing and the two essentials that make it possible. (Dan Winkler)
“But now the righteousness of God apart from the law is revealed,
being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets,
even the righteousness of God,
through faith in Jesus Christ,
to all and on all who believe.
For there is no difference;
for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,
being justified freely by His grace
hrough the redemption that is in Christ Jesus,
whom God set forth as a propitiation by His blood,
through faith,
to demonstrate His righteousness,
because in His forbearance God had passed over the sins
that were previously committed,
to demonstrate at the present time His righteousness,
that He might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus.
Where is boasting then?
It is excluded. By what law? Of works?
No, but by the law of faith.
Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith
apart from the deeds of the law.
Or is He the God of the Jews only?
Is He not also the God of the Gentiles?
Yes, of the Gentiles also, since there is one God
who will justify the circumcised by faith
and the uncircumcised through faith.
Do we then make void the law through faith?
Certainly not! On the contrary, we establish the law.”
~Romans 3:21-31~
Continue to pray for Mrs. Catherine Kuss and her family. Some of them will be traveling today.
Anna Lee

Monday

“All the ends of the world shall remember

and turn to the Lord,

and all the families of the nations

shall worship before You,

for the kingdom is the Lord’s,

and He rules over the nations.”

~Psalm 22:27-28~




Annie Armstrong trivia: What percent of the people in North America (USA & Canada) are Christians? You can find the answer below.


Martha Traylor asks for pray as she goes to North Oaks for a nerve test on Thursday.


Grady Brecheen will have surgery at North Oaks Thursday.


The share group will meet at the Alford’s cabin at 6:30 Thursday. Feel free to join us for food, fellowship, and a devotional.


There will be a blood drive at FBC, Kentwood Saturday. You can sign up by calling the church office at 229-8111.


You can also call that number to get tickets for the fish dinner Thursday. The money earned will be used to support a mission trip to Canada in late June.


Speaking of June, Vacation Bible School will begin June 8th. Children four years old are elegible to attend. Registration will begin soon at church.


Have a great week!

Anna Lee

Twenty-five percent of North Americans are Christians. Seventy-five percent are NOT Christians. That means two hundred fifty-one million people in North America are not saved. Tha’t why we need to suppor the 5,500 North American Mission Board missionaries!