Wednesday – Midday

Lorraine Schexnayder Hudspeth
(February 24, 1932 – May 25, 2009)

Lorraine Schexnayder Hudspeth

Edward “Ed” Cutrer
(February 3, 1925 – May 25, 2009)


Mr. Edward “Ed” Cutrer a Veteran of WWII, was a recipient of a Silver Star and a Purple Heart, was born February 3, 1925 and passed away at 4:15 a.m., Monday, May 25, 2009 at the VA Medical Center, Biloxi Division, Biloxi, MS. He was 84, a native of Montpelier and a resident of Amite.

Mr. Ed is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Bruce E. and Mary D. Cutrer, Amite; a daughter-in-law, Linda “Puddin” Cutrer, Amite; a sister, Mary Rogers, Greensburg; 2 brothers, Joe Cutrer, Greensburg and Ray Cutrer, Chicago, IL; 2 granddaughters, Keeli Cutrer, Amite and Heather Cutrer Koepp, and husband, Geoffrey, Amite; a grandson, Bruce E. “Binky” Cutrer, II, Amite; a great grandson, Garrett Wayne Koepp, Amite: and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John T. and Hazel Redmond Cutrer; wives, Louise Henry Cutrer Murphy and Cinderella “Cindi” King Cutrer; a son, Joe Wayne Cutrer; 2 sisters, Annie Mae Albritton and Myrtle Louise Ficklin; and 3 brothers, Hollis, Walter, and Dewitt Cutrer.

Visitation will be at the McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, on Sunday, May 31, 2009 from 12:00 noon until Religious Services at 3:00 p.m. with Bro Sam Leto officiating. Interment in Amite Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers the family request donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105 1-800-873-6983

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 and Bond Eye Clinic.

Jimmy and Retia Dukes

< being renewed. >
Yesterday (Tuesday), the morning began with me picking Dad up in his truck and crossing the street that they didn’t make it across April 4th. Still a bit surreal every time I cross it. We headed over to get some coffee in the Cafe in the Student Center. I tell you what – so many people (faculty, staff, and students alike) have come into the Cafe to see Dad. It really touches his heart each time.

This morning (Wednesday) we went over to the Seminary cafeteria to grab some regular type breakfast before we stopped by the Cafe to get Dad some coffee. A group of his Orlando students are in town for a workshop this week. They told me that the folks who work for the Seminary guest house have been looking at them funny, because they have been asking about Dad so much. Well, they finally got to see him this morning at the Cafeteria when we went in to grab some of Sheila’s and Ms. Alice’s grits and eggs. It meant so much to Dad. They all gathered around him, like 20 of them, with a look of admiration and support. Very thankful.

Back to yesterday, when the visiting was over in the Cafe and the first cup of coffee for the day had been consumed, we headed to see Mom. When we got there, they were bathing her. We sat in the hall and waited.

When we went in, she was so lively. Still not moving much as a whole, but parts of her body are definitely showing signs of progress – except for turning her head and moving her feet and shifting her legs and slightly lifting her arms and wiggling her fingers (which is AWESOME – more everyday!). She even began to mouth a few full sentences to us yesterday, unprompted. Dad and I focused in to try to read her lips. Here’s what we could discern:

“I need some pain medicine. My bottom hurts.”
“I need to go to the bathroom.”
“Can I get over in a small chair?”

This one she said in the context of needing to go to the bathroom. She didn’t want to go in the bed. Good sign!

Finally, right before we left, she mouthed to us:

“Will you bring me some strawberry ice cream?”

We will deliver some to her today.

We are about to head that way, so I will wrap up. Just giving you an update on the logistics real quick. We should hear today news about moving Mom to another facility here in town. If we can, we will. She is not ready yet for the Brain Injury Rehab Center (the BIRC) in Orlando. They are now very familiar with Mom’s situation, and they are working with us to move toward eventually getting her there. In the mean time, we are trying to stay focused with the medical staff to help Mom’s infections and bedsores resolve. They are really a hold-up for her overall progress. The BIRC confirmed that. Please pray with us for wisdom and for the open door to move her to a facility that we feel like will work with Mom more attentively and strategically.

Dad had been a bit discouraged over the last few days, so I thought it would be fun for us to go for a drive and breathe some fresh air. After we left Mom’s yesterday, we did just that. You can read about it and see some pictures on my blog (click here to visit there). The picture attached to this post is of a steeple that was damaged from the wind and surge from Katrina. The church family is still “renewing” their campus from that storm.

We are thankful that Mom and Dad are being renewed, as well.

I will post at you later. We are about to “walker” Dad out to the truck and cross the river to see Mom. He walked with his walker more yesterday than he rode in the wheelchair. Great stuff! Keep praying. We are seeing prayers answered everyday. Mom mouthing full sentences, for instance. Dad’s heart being refreshed yesterday, for instance.

Thank you.
-jason

Don’t forget to check out Jason’s blog (http://jasoncdukes.wordpress.com/).

Wednesday

“Behold, the Lord’s hand is not shortened,

that it cannot save;

nor His ear heavy,

that it cannot hear.”

~Isaiah 59:1~


Don Denton

We have spoken with Don’s doctor and she wants us to come back to St. Louis this week. Don will see his neurosurgeon and his neurologist on Friday at Barnes.

His neurologist wants to have another lumbar puncture done again. So, we will head up to St. Louis on Thursday.

I have barely unpacked from our last trip. The good thing is that this is just for a day. We will head back home on Friday too.

We continue to pray that this treatment will be what Don needs and we pray for wisdom and discernment for his doctors.

I will keep you all posted.



Lorraine Schexnayder Hudspeth
(February 24, 1932 – May 25, 2009)

Died at 10:03PM on Monday, May 25, 2009 at her residence in Amite, LA. She was a native of Welcome, LA. Age 77 years. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. on Wednesday and at St. Helena Catholic Church, Amite, from 9 a.m. until religious services at 10 a.m. Thursday. Services conducted by Fr. Joe Camilleri. Interment Ferguson Cemetery, Bunkie, LA. Survived by husband, Charles T. Hudspeth, Amite, 2 daughters, Renee Ann Miller and husband, Ivy, Montpelier, Lisa Ann Bateman and husband, Jim, Syracuse, UT, 3 sons, Stephen Hudspeth and wife, Misty, Rosharon, TX, Francis J. Hudspeth, Gray, Charles T. Hudspeth, Jr. and wife, Jewel, Bolivar, 4 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren, 2 sisters, Enola James, Neederland, TX, Alice Eaton, Delaware, brother, Irving Schexnayder, Donaldsonville. Preceded in death by parents, Walter and Aimee Schexnayder, 3 sisters, Doris Sigman, Vivian McCready, Gloria Prewitt, brother, Walter Schexnayder.


Edward Cutrer
(February 3, 1925 – May 25, 2009)

Mr. Edward Cutrer was born February 3, 1925 and passed away at 4:15 a.m., May 25, 2009 at the VA Medical Center, Biloxi, MS. He was 84 years.

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 and Bond Eye Clinic.

KneEmail
“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow…” Philippians 2:10
Mike Benson, Editor
AN ANCIENT LEGEND tells of Al Haffed, a wealthy man who owned a large farm…
One evening a visitor related to him tales of diamonds that could be found in other parts of the world. The vision of all this wealth made him feel poor by comparison. so he sold his prosperous farm and set out to find treasure. The search proved fruitless. Finally, penniless and in despair, he committed suicide by jumping into the sea.
Meanwhile, the man who had purchased his farm one day noticed the glint of an unusual stone in a shallow stream on the property. To his amazement he pulled out a huge diamond. Later, when working in his garden, he uncovered more valuable gems. Poor Al Haffed had spent his life traveling to distant lands, seeking for jewels he could have found on the farm he had left behind.
Don’t overlook what you have! Contrast what you are with what you might have been but for the grace of God. (Allen Webster)
“Not that I speak in regard to need,
for I have learned in whatever state I am,
to be content.”
~Philippians 4:11~
Have a wonderful Wednesday!
Anna Lee

Tuesday

“Lord, I have called daily upon You;

I have stretched out my hands to You.”

~Psalm 88:9b~

Mrs. Faye Price continues to have ups and downs at Kentwood Manor. Pray for her and her family. It has been almost six months since she had surgery. As you pray for her, pray for her family as they continue to faithfully assist in her care on a daily basis.



Pray for Tiffany B. Currier, daughter of Sim and Pam Bankston, as she has some serious surgery today in the Atlanta area. I know the family will be most thankful for your prayers.


Walter Green Harper is now in rehabilitation in Hammond. Pray for him as he progresses following surgery.


Jimmy and Retia Dukes

< first meal. >
Dad and Erik and Erin and their kids and I hit the ground running this Monday morning. Well, Dad wasn’t really running. Rolling maybe. But, Erik and his family hit the road to head back home earlier than most college students like to schedule their first class of the day. Pop and I got out of bed about the same time that they left. We got ready, headed to grab some coffee and breakfast, and hit the road across the river to see Mom.

We were up so early for two reasons – we both tend to wake up early like that, and we were scheduled to meet someone from Ochsner hospital here in New Orleans who was evaluating Mom’s “complex case” (as she put it). Windie was a huge help and had a huge heart. She spent quite some time talking with Dad and me, reading through Mom’s chart, talking with the doctors and nurses, reading Mom’s chart, talking with the therapists, reading Mom’s chart, and reading Mom’s chart. Did I mention reading Mom’s chart? It is now an epic piece of literature that rivals War and Peace in length and matches M. Night Shymalan’s works with regard to mystery and complexity. Needless to say, it took Windie a while to read through it.

Over three hours later, she came again to see Mom and Dad and me in Mom’s room. The speech therapist was finishing up with Mom, and Windie didn’t want to interrupt her (having been a speech therapist prior to her current position), so she asked us to step out into the hall. Windie told us that in her opinion, Mom is not ready for “rehab” at this time. She is, rather, in need of some aggressive acute care skilled in progressing Mom to rebound from the various setbacks that have come upon her since being at her current facility. She told us that she would call us with her suggestions later, and that Ochsner could give us a decision on a possible next step for Mom by sometime tomorrow.

We are praying for wisdom and insight, as we are trying to figure out the best next step for Mom. Should she go to more attentive acute care? Is she ready to shift toward more skilled care and therapy? Can she move to Orlando? When do we have the cranium piece replaced? Is that even possible with her current infections and situation? Price Is Right or Seinfeld reruns for Mom’s TV viewing? Important questions as we move forward. At least all but the last one.

Seriously, Dad and I watched a little TV with Mom this morning while we interacted with her. Regis and Kelly. Then, Price Is Right. Then, the beginning of the rescheduled-from-yesterday-due-to-rain-out NASCAR race. She smiled quite a bit during Price Is Right. We have watched that together in the past (before the accident a long time ago), and I always used to make Mom laugh imitating the contestant’s uber excitement. I mean, come on! Six leaps and a knock-down hug over a silver coffee urn that they picked up on clearance at Marshalls because someone (who was fired) hit “20” for quantity instead of “02” when they incorrectly ordered it?

She did light up when I asked her if she wanted me to take her to actually attend the taping of the show when she gets better. Like eyes real wide and a pretty smile and a sweet glance at me. Anyone know Drew Carey? Give us a hook up?

I digress. This isn’t CareyBridge or Caring Is Right, is it?

More fun to report, though. Mom continued to progress some this morning in her speech therapy practice. She didn’t “say” anything, necessarily, but she did mouth some stuff and make a few sounds. She made an “ah” and “buh” and “duh” and “fff” sound. On top of that, Dad and I got her to mouth seven out of eight of her grandkids’ names. The only reason she struggled with one of them, and she did try to mouth it, was because she is struggling to even mouth an “L.” We also got Mom to open her mouth wide multiple times, and we got her to blow three kisses in a row on several occasions.

That is a BIG DEAL, because that’s the way Mom and Dad always depart one another. They say, “I love you,” and lean in and give three straight quick smoochers. I do it to Jen, too. Didn’t mean to at first. Just habit I learned from them I guess. Now we do it from time to time just for fun. I like kissing her, too!!!

Mom held my hand. Not only that, she lifted BOTH ARMS!!! She lifted her right arm with control and moved her fingers. She lifted her left arm with a lot of quivering and slightly gave those fingers an awkward wiggle. Not sure if that was due to lack of strength or a long-term disability. Either way, we’ll take it!

Mom also mouthed several questions unprompted. The speech therapist saw one of them, and she was excited at that.

The therapist’s main goal today was to see how Mom would tolerate eating a little bit of easy-to-chew and easy-to-swallow food. Thankfully, we arrived in time to let the therapist know that Mom is a vegetarian. I can only imagine what Mom would have done if she had tried to stuff a sausage link or a hamburger in there. Oh man. Talk about a setback. Thanks to Jen for reminding us to remind her.

The tray arrived around 11 with some bland red beans and rice (no andouille sausage) and some steamed carrots and some thickened-like-honey sweet tea. The tea was her favorite. The beans – she mouthed, “More salt.” The carrots – couldn’t chew them. Overall, it was a good attempt. Her speech therapist concluded that Mom was not ready to tolerate that kind of meal yet, simply because of the amount of pain it caused. Mom really, really, really tried to chew and swallow it, grimacing the whole time. In the end, it was a fruitless effort.

Chocolate pudding was tried next. Success!!! At least for three bites. So, we will be trying yogurt and pudding and applesauce for “pleasure feedings” for this week. That was the conclusion. I am thinking some strawberry Marble Slab ice cream would be a real pleasure feeding. Maybe I can sneak some of that in.

In the end, her speech therapist concluded that she thinks Mom’s real issue now is her tongue. Her tracheotomy was too big, and they changed that over the weekend. Mom is more comfortable now. It was too big and impeding her vocal and swallowing activity, they determined after a test last Thursday. If you remember, Mom bit her tongue in the accident, and it had to be repaired. That is probably a bit of the issue – still healing AND hasn’t been used in some time. When we asked Mom to stick out her tongue, she grimaced BIG TIME. I asked her if that really hurt. She nodded. SO, pray for her tongue to heal and to strengthen. One of those parts of our body we don’t think much about and take for granted.

As lively as Mom was this morning, she did demonstrate some cognitive and clarity issues. Which is to be expected, by the way. We surely don’t know where Mom will return to cognitively. I am simply trying to give the whole picture.

She is clearly still struggling with processing speech requests. There is often a significant delay between her hearing the command, “Say such-and-such,” and her actually saying “such-and-such.” She at times drops out of interaction and just looks down. You have to repeat things multiple times to get her back into the interaction. Her therapist asked her how many grandkids she has, and she did not answer correctly. She seemed more like herself this morning, though. A continuation from Saturday and Sunday no doubt. Erik and Erin and Dad took such good care of her this weekend.

When we left Mom’s place, Dad and I went to grab lunch and ended up here at Starbucks. I graded some final papers from the college class I teach, and Dad made some phone calls. He just ordered his second cup of coffee (this visit). He had one early this morning, too, remember. That’s really all the update you need on him. That means he is three-quarters of the way back to his four coffees a day. Who cares about the walking stuff.

PLEASE CONTINUE TO PRAY FOR MOM AND DAD. Pray for Dad to continue to heal and have strength to get back to walking and moving. Pray for Mom’s mind to continue to heal and gain processing ability. Pray for her tongue and throat and vocals to strengthen. And, I didn’t mention them much, but pray for her two infections to be eradicated by the meds or even healed outright. Pray for her arms and legs and neck to regain strength. And pray for wisdom – for the neuro-surgeons who will decide when to replace her cramium piece and for us regarding facilities and care.

Once again this morning, Dad and I spent some time reading the Caring Bridge Guestbook while we were waiting for Mom to come back to her room from a scan. We were blown away. You all mean so much. Your prayers and notes are HUGE and push Dad forward and make Mom smile. We love you. Thanks for your love.

I will post at you tomorrow.
-jason



Vita Fontana Tomm
(January 19, 1922 – May 22, 2009)

Vita Fontana Tomm

Vita Fontana Tomm, age 87years, a resident of Independence, LA passed away at Belle Maison Nursing Home in Hammond, LA on May 22, 2009. She was the beloved wife of James J. Tomm for 58 years and the mother of Jacqueline Tomm Landry and son-in-law, Kenneth J. Landry, Jr of Metairie, LA. She is survived by two grandchildren, Jaimee Landry Boyd and husband Kenneth S. Boyd of Golden, CO, and Kenneth J. Landry III of Arlington, VA. She has one great-grandchild, Evelynn Vita Boyd. She is preceded in death by her parents, Vito and Josephine Fontana, Two brothers, Jake (Eola) and Roy (Nancy) Fontana and a sister, Carmella Talia (John). Surviving siblings are Nat Fontana (Lydia), Josie Orth (Andrew), Anne Bertucci, (Frank), Rose Ricks (Jerome) , all residing in Metairie,LA and Augustine Taylor (Charles) of Baton Rouge LA . Vita owned and operated Vita’s Beauty Shop for over 40 years. She was a very special individual who had many talents. She was a friend to everyone and always put others’ needs ahead of hers. She had numerous friends and was loved by everyone who knew her. She will be sadly missed by all. The family would like to thank the staff of Belle Maison Nursing Home who provided such special care and love to “Ms Vita” while she resided there. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Memorial Mass officiated by Father Paul Yi. Mass will be at 11 a.m. at Mater Dolorosa Church in Independence, LA on Wednesday, May 27th, 2009. Visitation will be held at the church prior to Mass from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Interment will be at Colonial Mausoleum. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Vital Hospice, 19184 Dr. John Lambert Drive, Suite 101, Hammond, LA 70401 (985-340-3184 or 866-938-4825) or Mater Dolorosa Catholic School, 509 Pine St., Independence, LA (985-878-4295). McKneely Funeral Home of Amite is in charge of arrangements (985-748-7178).



Joseph “J.B.” Gulotta
(June 7, 1938 – May 24, 2009)

Joseph

Died at 9:15 p.m. on Sunday, May 24, 2009 at Walthall County General Hospital in Tylertown, MS. He was a native of Independence, LA and a resident of Tylertown, MS. Age 70 years. He was a dairy farmer and later retired as a rural mail carrier out of Independence. He and his wife owned and operated Ellen’s Antiques in Ponchatoula. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 9 a.m. on Tuesday until religious services at 11 a.m Tuesday. Services conducted by Rev. Luke Walters. Interment Loranger Cemetery, Loranger, LA. Survived by Wife, Mary Ellen Vickers Gulotta, Tylertown, MS, 2 daughters, Deborah Ferrara, Hammond, and Sandra Walters and husband Luke, Zachary, 4 sons, Joey Gulotta and wife, Michelle, Kentwood, Alan Gulotta, Plaquemine, Vick Gulotta, Tylertown, MS, and Chris Gulotta, Sr., Kentwood, 19 grandchildren, 4 step-grandchildren, 4 sisters, Mary Vaughn, Prairieville, Diane Navarra, Independence, Shirleen Accordo, Tickfaw, Margaret LeBlanc, Independence, 1 brother, Gerald Gulotta, Independence. Preceded in death by parents, Buster and Eva Gulotta, sister, Charleen Kirkland.


Daniel David “Dan” Larkin
(January 2, 1988 – May 23, 2009)

Daniel David

Daniel David “Dan” Larkin who was very devoted to family & friends, who had a “Servant’s Heart” was always willing to help others, was born January 2, 1988 and went to be with Jesus at 3:50 a.m. on Saturday, May 23, 2009. He was 21, a native of LaPlace and a resident of Amite. Dan was a proud member of Troop #340 Boy Scouts of America, Amite Chapter were he complete all merits up to Eagle Scout.

Dan is survived by his mother, Sharon Kay Fountain Larkin & father, Harold Steve Larkin, both of Amite; 2 sisters, Brandy Bowman and husband, Preston, Ft. Campbell, KY and Monica Larkin, Amite; a brother, Timothy Larkin, Amite; maternal grandmother, Cleovis Fountain, Destrehan; paternal grandparents, Stella McKenzie, Thornfield, MO and H. H. “Red” Larkin and wife, Roxanne Larkin, Hammond; also numerous nieces & nephews.

A Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, May 28, 2009 at the Immanuel Baptist Church, 1503 Pecan St., Hammond, LA at 6:00 p.m. with Bro. John Cook officiating.

In lieu of flowers family request donations be made to Amite Chapter #340 Boy Scouts of America.

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

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

Have a terriffic Tuesday. May you see God’s blessing in your life today.

Anna Lee

Monday

“But if we live in the light, as God is in the light,

we can share fellowship with each other.

Then the blood of Jesus, God’s Son,

cleanses us from every sin.

If we say we have no sin, we are fooling ourselves,

and the truth is not in us.”

~1 John 1:7-8 NCV~

It was good to have Mrs. Kathryn Kuss and members of her family in church yesterday. I also got to see Mrs. Ruby Thompson and family in Amite. Two ladies who lost long-time mates. God will walk with these families through the coming days.


The wake for Rev. Frank Danley is tonight at McKneely’s in Amite.

Daniel Larkin
(Died May 23, 2009)

Daniel Larkin passed away Saturday, May 23, 2009.

Arrangements are incomplete at this time.

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

KneEmail
“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow…” Philippians 2:10
Mike Benson, Editor

IT WAS 1866 AND the United States was recovering from the long and bloody Civil War between the North and the South…

Surviving soldiers came home, some with missing limbs, and all with stories to tell. Henry Welles, a drugstore owner in Waterloo, New York, heard the stories and had an idea. He suggested that all the shops in town close for one day to honor the soldiers who were killed in the Civil War and were buried in the Waterloo cemetery. On the morning of May 5, the townspeople placed flowers, wreaths and crosses on the graves of the Northern soldiers in the cemetery. At about the same time, Retired Major General Jonathan A. Logan planned another ceremony, this time for the soldiers who survived the war. He led the veterans through town to the cemetery to decorate their comrades’ graves with flags. It was not a happy celebration, but a memorial. The townspeople called it Decoration Day.

In Retired Major General Logan’s proclamation of Memorial Day, he declared:

“The 30th of May, 1868, is designated for the purpose of strewing with flowers, or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country and during the late rebellion, and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village and hamlet churchyard in the land. In this observance no form of ceremony is prescribed, but posts and comrades will in their own way arrange such fitting services and testimonials of respect as circumstances may permit.”

The two ceremonies were joined in 1868, and northern states commemorated the day on May 30. The southern states commemorated their war dead on different days. Children read poems and sang civil war songs and veterans came to school wearing their medals and uniforms to tell students about the Civil War. Then the veterans marched through their home towns followed by the townspeople to the cemetery. They decorated graves and took photographs of soldiers next to American flags. Rifles were shot in the air as a salute to the northern soldiers who had given their lives to keep the United States together.

In 1882, the name was changed to Memorial Day and soldiers who had died in previous wars were honored as well. In the northern United States, it was designated a public holiday. In 1971, along with other holidays, President Richard Nixon declared Memorial Day a federal holiday on the last Monday in May.

Children of God memorialize Jesus Christ each (Acts 20:7) Lord’s Day (Revelation 1:10) at Communion (1 Corinthians 11:23-26). They eat a very small piece of unleavened bread and drink grape juice from a cup. Worshipers focus not so much on these two elements, but upon what they represent (Matthew 26:26ff). The bread and fruit of the vine remind us of that great sacrifice that was made at Calvary nearly 2,000 years ago.

“…Do this in remembrance of Me…”
1 Corinthians 11:24



I hope this devotional serves as a reminder why we have this holiday. It’s not about BBQ! It’s about honoring those who served our country and helped to provide the freedoms we often take for granted.

Remember the reason for the holiday! Remember what Jesus did too!
Anna Lee

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.