Rude awakening

Margie had a good day, doing various duties around the house.  She baked some gluten free muffins for herself also. In the evening we prepared the oven for the self-clean mode and started the process.  BUT we forgot an important matter.  We forgot to turn the exhaust fan on over the stove to get rid of that fierce odor.  I finally realized it and turned it on.  But it was too late.  Margie got sick and headed for the bedroom where we always prepare the room with fresh air, by opening the door and using a fan.  This is the way she sleeps best.  That was her salvation.  I sprayed the entire house (minus the bedroom) trying to minimize the hideous odor and told Margie not to come out of the bedroom.  Finally things got calmed down but we learned a good lesson, which we should have known, but it's easy to forget some important things. Today all is back to normal and things "smell" good again. I am so glad she didn't suffer all night because of it.  She slept well.  We are thankful.

Family visit

After preaching yesterday in our home church, we had lunch and later went to Christian Health Care Center in Lynden, Washington to visit our daughter Joy.  Joy seemed pleased to be with us.  As usual she had MANY things on her mind that she wanted us to do. Without words she grabs our hand and "points" to whatever she would like us to do.  She is a busy gal and keeps us busy while there.  We finally figured out that she wanted her shoes on and we pushed her around in the wheelchair throughout the many corridors of the facility.  It was getting nearer to her supper hour so one of her caregivers said she would be walking with her walker to supper. That is good because she needs the exercise.  With that, we left and picked up a prepared chicken on the way home and had a bite to eat.  Then Rawlie and Gina and Monique went to Vista house for the night and we prepared for sleep.  It was a good day.  The time with Joy was hard for Margie as Joy continuously grabbed her arm trying to get her to do something.  Next time we will not put Margie so close to her so it won't wear her out.  We did have a nice time however and are so grateful to have Joy close to us.  Thanks for praying.

Preparing for Sunday

I was honored to be asked to preach at our church today.  Yesterday I spent part of the day putting the final touches to those preparations.  Margie, as usual, made her customary Saturday phone calls as she ministers this way on the telephone.  Our son and family are here in Ferndale also this weekend.  I looked out the office window yesterday morning and it was snowing.  It didn't last long and we know the children are disappointed.
Our family plans to visit Joy tomorrow and that will be fun. We thank each of you for your prayer support.

First conference

Joy has now been in the Christian Health Care Center for 13 days (today).  Yesterday the staff scheduled our first conference relative to Joy's care there.  We had a very positive time as different staff persons gave their input about Joy.  She (Joy) is a challenge to them as they learn to "read" her.  It is amazing already how much they have picked up about her.  Her inability to talk makes things more challenging. She also cannot hear, so therefore can receive no verbal commands.  All had to be done through sign language.  We are not real sure she knows very many signs but in one way or another seems to be able to get along.  They are learning and we are sure it will always be that way.  The Shepherd's staff worked with her for 44 years and we are sure they could teach the present staff many things if they were here. Thank you for praying for these kind ladies who are working with Joy.  We appreciate so much their fine attitude and desire to make life as pleasant as possible for Joy.  Margie had a wonderful night and we are thinking in part that is because of our peace concerning Joy's well being now. Thanks for praying.

Strength for the day

We are so pleased in answered prayer concerning daily strength for Margie.  We firmly believe that Joy's settlement near us and or ability to visit her often as we desire, has made a huge difference in her health. At first the uncertainty of Joy's future was tearing Margie down.  You all have had a hand in her recovery as you have prayed so faithfully.  We thank you much for this.  Today we have a conference with the staff at Christian Health Care Center regarding Joy's initial days in the new facility.  We are looking forward to this. Yesterday we were in contact with Shepherds about some medical history information needed.  Today we take a brand new magazine for Joy's enjoyment.  Magazines seem to be her sole source of recreation.  We are glad she enjoys them.

A first

For a couple of  years now I have taken Margie shopping, to the doctors, visits, church and other events.  Yesterday I drove her to the doctor appointment but she went in on her own.  This is a first.  Then I took her to some places where she did the shopping while I stayed in the car.  Boy, this is a first and a tribute to answered prayer.  I know the day was hard on her but I was unable to help much due to my coming out of the flu episode. Gratefully she had a good night so did not suffer from her very busy day.  I received another important call from the Christian Health Care Center and today will be getting some answers to their questions.  I will be calling Shepherds for the answers.  Thanks for praying. Joy's new caregivers are endeavoring to give her the best care possible and we are pleased.

Getting back to normal?

I hope so.  I have been down about 8 days and it is about time I start getting better.  With the exception of a slight case of vertigo, I am  beginning to feel "human" again.  I will venture driving Margie today to her doctor;s appointment.  I have been asked to preach in our church Sunday and request your prayer as I prepare for that.
We will return to visit Joy as soon as I am completely well.  Yesterday I spent many hours on the phone trying to contact people regarding Joy's documents, I am getting in order.  It all takes time.  Thanks for your prayers. We appreciate them. Margie had a good night for which we are grateful.