TGP: Day 10

Day 10

Wednesday, August 10th, 2011

Today has been hard on a couple of fronts.  A new journey begins and another has ended.  Morning came with news that my husband's aunt has passed.  When I went to bed last night - this was not anticipated.  We were receiving updates on her surgery - and the last word was that the valve replacement was taking longer than anticipated, but it was going well.  She leaves behind three adult children, grandchildren and two sisters who adored her. 

Aunt Jodie's voice and laughter could often be heard above the rest and I know her presence will be greatly missed at future family gatherings.  A funny thing about Aunt Jodie, she was known for keeping a blender in her hotel room at family reunions...making it easier and less expensive to keep the "adult beverages" flowing.  Perhaps I'll honor her memory at the next  family event, by doing the same.  

"Aunt Jodie"

Afternoon brought another bit of "less than desirable" news - the biopsy report.  The thyroid biopsy from August 3rd revealed "Follicular Neoplasm with suspicion of Malignancy."  So, within hours - the surgery to remove the right lobe of my thyroid was arranged.  I now know what I'll be doing on August 24th! 

A final pathology report after surgery will determine future treatment. Prayerfully - nothing other than recovery, medication and monitoring.  However, there is a 30% likelihood that a second surgery will be required within weeks - followed by radioactive iodine treatments.  (That sounds worse that what it is - and if correctly understood, there are no needles involved!) 

Aside from the initial shock in the first few minutes following the doctor's call, I've experienced a peace about this entire process.   A few days ago, I wrote that on the most difficult days of all - the reasons we have to be grateful become most obvious. It's easier to see bright lights against a gray canvas, than to see the same bright lights against a brightly colored one.   

Today I'm thankful God orchestrated the following...plus so much more:

• Aunt Jodie is now in Heaven, not in any pain.  She's reunited with her parents, her husband, and Aunt Sara.  (They probably had a blender waiting for her in the new mansion.)
• When my phone rang this afternoon, I just happened to be standing in the kitchen with one of my closest friends. She knew what was going on as soon as I began scribbling notes on a series of post-its, that just happened to be lying on the counter.  She escorted me into my office, closed the door - reviewed the conversation,  gave me prayerful assurance, encouragement, a hug and she made me laugh...a few times. (Thank you Sally)
• After wrestling with whether I should even tell my kids what's going on at this point (not wanting to cause them unnecessary concern).  The decision was made to let them know...they are all adults and the news is best coming from me, than delayed or accidental.  Getting information to all three of them today, given their locations in other states, countries, etc. "same day communication was a gift".
• Hearing from the doctor and seeing (Google, of course) - that in the unlikely diagnosis of Malignancy, there is no impact on mortality and this particular type would be 100% curable...well, that's pretty outstanding information!
• With dear hubby out of town, it was no accident that the ladies from my Community Group already had scheduled a dinner out tonight...it was wonderful to be with close friends who are incredible women of God - who love and encourage well, and who are, of course - incredible prayer warriors.  
• Not to be overlooked, when I arrived at home after dinner - Lily and Bella were here to greet and cuddle...just what I needed.

Thank you God for the many seemingly insignificant "divine appointments" today.  Your hand has been easily seen throughout and there is great comfort and a peace that truly surpasses understanding.  I am blessed - and no less today than the other days. 

(L-R) Aunt Sara, Aunt Jodie, Aunt Ginny, & Sue - my dear Mother-in-law
Four Incredible Women - Four tightly knit Sisters
Aunt Sara and Aunt Jodie were reunited today
Please pray for Aunt Ginny & Sue as they grieve the loss of their second "baby sister"



TGP: Day 9

Day 9

Tuesday, August 9th, 2011

This morning, my "baby girl" (almost 20) left with her boyfriend's family for a week of fun and relaxation in South Carolina. 

While saying "goodbye" to her for a few days, I was comforted by the fact that she has a wonderful boyfriend, from a delightful, Godly family.  Not only do we love this particular young man, but his mom has become a dear friend over the course of their relationship. 

There is a greater level of trust, and of comfort in knowing she's in truly "good company" for the week.  I'm grateful that she's able to go and have a wonderful time....a great way to cap off the summer before school resumes next week.  She's surrounded by people who hold the same values and beliefs...and above all, they love my baby girl. 

For moms, seeing our children truly happy - and truly loved, is one of the best gifts of all.  For that reason today, I'm extremely grateful. 

My beautiful Baby Girl...and her "Man"



TGP: Day 8

Day 8

August 8, 2011

Today is a Monday....if I had to list the days of the week in order of preference, Monday would be number seven.  However, today hasn't been bad at all.  Being able to wrap up a "ministry day" at 5pm is wonderful - especially, when not too long ago - I found myself still at the office until midnight.  Shutting down at 5pm leaves several good, quality hours full of opportunity. 

In fact, during those hours between 5 and midnight today, there were two meaningful phone calls (very odd for phone calls to be significant two days in a row.)  Additionally, there was time for reading, reflection and research.  Granted, I probably allowed "google" to occupy more time than was optimal. 

When something is weighing on my mind:   Too often, my default is to study and determine every possible direction a particular catalyst may lead.  Too often, these possibilities become bigger in my mind that they need to be. Too often, more time is spent learning and understanding possible eventualities than praying about them.  Ironically, the outcomes will remain the same regardless of my understanding or knowledge - yet, outcomes can be vastly impacted through the power of prayer.

So, beyond being thankful for meaningful, Monday evening phone chats - I'm infinitely grateful for a significant reminder today.  A reminder that our God is sovereign and no matter what's coming next - HE is in control.  That's a point we should all be grateful for. 

"Be Still and know that He is God" - not "fret and Google." 

This reminder faces my desk - yet I too often forget!

(Psalm 46:10)

TGP: Day 7

Day 7

August 7th, 2011

Because so much of my time is spent on the phone during weekdays,  seldom do I engage in lengthy chats during evening or weekend hours.  Those closest to me know that I don't fit the stereotype of the "woman who stays on the phone - gabbing for hours at a time." 

Today was an exception, bringing with the unexpected call, a long overdue phone chat with one of my most favorite people on Earth - someone I have loved and adored my entire life.  We've not spoken in almost a year (not my choice.) 

It was great to hear the familiar voice of someone special and very much loved....it was comforting to get a health and "life" update when there have been many questions concerning both. 

So, while I'm not a big fan of phone conversations - today is an exception.  For today's particular call, I am both encouraged and extremely grateful.



TGP: Day 6

Day 6

Saturday, August 6th 2011

"Sometimes you're the windshield....sometimes you're the bug."  Today was a buglike kind of day, so rather than focus on the negative, I'll give thanks for the quiet time that enabled me to pray, ponder and organize the kitchen cabinets. 

A small thing to some, the cabinet reorganization has been on my "when I get the time" list for several weeks.  Today was the day - and there is something oddly therapeutic about organizing...as well as completing ANY project. 

There are others - but these are rare moments today for which I'm grateful.    'nuf said.

What can I say?  It makes me happy to open this cabinet!

The "Water Bottle" shelf:  100% with the corresponding top attached!

Ten "cut glass" serving bowls - all neatly stacked and on the bottom shelf for easy access...

"It's the little things in life!"

TGP: Day 5

Day 5:

August 5, 2011

It seems each day is holding innumerable blessings - it makes me wonder how or why I could ever justifiably complain about ANYTHING.

If I were to choose just one reason today - to give thanks, it would be for Em.  As parents, we've wanted desperately for our children to grow up, avoiding some of the pitfalls we've fallen into - yet, embracing and experiencing a love like WGH and I have found in each other.   As I stated yesterday, our "little boy" married his beautiful bride about a year ago.  He may be serving our country thousands of miles away right now - but he has an amazing, devoted wife at home.  She is lovingly supporting him from afar. 

Don't let her beautiful exterior deceive you - she is a very strong, determined young woman, which seems critical - especially for a military wife.

During their engagement, T was on a 7 month deployment to Afghanistan.  As a machine gunner, he was on the front lines and experienced war up close and personal.  Meanwhile, back at home with her parents, his Bride-to-be was going to college full time and rallying all kinds of prayer and "care package" support.  Em was diligent herself in creating not just "care packages" - but what I'd consider "works of art."  She didn't simply cram snacks, socks and toiletries into boxes - but she decorated the inside of the boxes, making each one special - marking special occasions and reminding him of special memories they shared.  She made my son feel special....and connected to home, and deeply connected to her. 

Now they are married, she is still working on her degree - and continuing to mail him phenomenal care packages, but she's also taking care of their home in his absence.  Not least of all - she's caring for their much loved 70lb black lab PUPPY - "Gunner."

Having the opportunity to spend several hours with her this evening, I'm reminded of the gift she is to our family.  Too easily, her loving support of our son could be taken for granted.  I am immensely grateful for Em...for her faith, her character and the incredible way she loves my "little boy."   Wars aren't just fought on the battlefield - we must not overlook the supportive wives who are making sacrifices and loving our sons in a way most will never understand.  War is Hell...no matter if you are the one with the weapon - or the one at home with "Gunner." 

Hang in there Em.... I've always loved you and have appreciated your loyalty to T.  I know it's hard sometimes - but some of these "difficult seasons" will serve to make you a stronger, more unified couple in the long run.  You are a gift and a blessing to Tyler - and to our entire family.  I am so very thankful for you....and for his decision to make you his Bride.  You love him well - what more could a mom hope for in a daughter-in-law?

Thanks for blessing me.  I love you.



TGP: Day 3

Day 3

August 3, 2011

On a day like today, finding the "Silver lining" seems like it would be a stretch.  Ironically, as my fingers are tapping out these words - it occurs to me that on days like this one - it's easiest to find the blessings amidst the muck.  It's all about perspective.

Today was the second biopsy on a thyroid nodule which has been monitored for four years.  Having experienced the needle prodding around in my neck on a prior occasion, I entered the surgeon's office prayerfully optimistic; optimistic the preliminary ultrasound would negate the need for the extremely unpleasant needle biopsy - it didn't.  

Although needles are the "thing" most feared/dreaded by me - there are many reasons to give thanks.  First, we live in an area with access to amazing medical care - many are not so fortunate. Secondly, the doctor indicated he was able to get a great specimen for the pathologist - which should mean a very accurate reading and less chance of a "do over."  Thirdly, our family has great medical coverage - it seems as though many do not.  Lastly, but best of all - my youngest was able to accompany me for moral (and needle) support since hubby is away on business.  She was able to make me laugh; it's true - a cheerful heart does wonders for the body, whether our own - or one close to us.  

Obviously, I am praying for a positive, benign reading - but am trusting that everything we encounter in this life, no matter how great or how small - is part of a bigger plan.  (A plan we may never understand completely, nor should we.)  Many were praying for me today - and many showed loving concern.... the blessings in spite of the "dreaded needle" were abundant.  Thank you, God.



Here's Britt - the "cheerful heart".  Also worth mentioning is the building behind her - Northside Hospital.  I'm grateful for the wonderful doctors and nurses we've encountered there over the years.  I've had more surgeries that can be counted easily - but the best one of all, an emergency c-section, almost 20 years ago. That particular procedure yielded the lovely, and truly amazing daughter seen here. 

                (She had me laughing before we stepped on the elevator....)





TGP: Day 2

Day 2

Aug 2, 2011

I'm grateful that we live in an age where communication with our loved ones is not delayed by weeks or months as was the case during U.S. -involved wars in the early to mid 1900s. I can't imagine going months at a time without hearing from my son while in Afghanistan or Libya.

whether 600 miles away from home on business...

We are very fortunate, having the  ability to not only hear, but to "see" those close to our heart but separated by distance!

...800 miles away at College

...and ESPECIALLY 5000 miles away on deployment!

The Gratitude Project - 08.01.11

When my son was preparing to deploy to Afghanistan in 2009 - I was an emotional wreck.  While it's true that we are supposed to trust God's plan and not "worry" - I failed miserably in doing so.  Watching my "little boy" ride away from base, with 1000 or so other young 18-20 year olds, I learned what it meant to "let go".  To say it was hard is a gross understatement.  Fortunately, as is often the case - a dear, sweet friend from church came alongside and walked through the whole deployment with me.  Being the daughter of a US Marine, and the mom of a US Marine - she was/is quite the expert...and quite the encourager.  One thing she encouraged me to do was to read Linda Dillow's "Calm my Anxious Heart."  It's a wonderful little "read" packed with wisdom.  Since then, I've encouraged others to do the same. 

The central theme is contentment.  It seemed a bit odd to me that I was freaking out about my precious son going off to war and she wanted me to focus on contentment.  She knew what she was talking about - and she was exactly right. It was a fabulous "discipline" of sorts.  (By the way, the word "fabulous" is a powerful word in the midst of trials - whatever they may be.)

Along with deployments (on our second one now), our family has seen an unbelievable amount of change in the last few years - some good, some difficult.  Like everyone - we face the regular daily stresses of life.  Of course, if you turn on the television - very little of the local and national news is positive.  It's enough to make you want to stay in bed and hide under the duvet! 

An exercise suggested in Mrs. Dillow's book (as well as by Dr. Phil and others) - is intentionally making notice of the little things in life that are cause for gratitude. So, for the month of August - this is exactly what I am doing.  Every day, I'll find a reason - whether miniscule or magnificent...to be mindful of the blessings, big and small. (In no particular order of significance.)  Please feel free to join me in this endeavor and share those reasons for your joy in the midst of the mundane. 

    Day 1:

August 1, 2011

Lily & Bella

For seventeen years I pleaded for a kitten...on Easter of this year - my husband gave me two!  They are the sweetest little animals ever.  On the days that I am walking into an otherwise empty house, they greet me with nuzzles and purrrrs...bringing an instant smile, and keeping me company.

"43"

With my 43rd birthday fast approaching, I've been pondering life's great mysteries. 42 years have taught me much, but perplexing questions remain.  (Feel free to provide answers!)

1. Why do women rarely want to share their age….rather than embrace it, thankful for each day they’ve been given.
2. Why do educated people still say “ATM Machine” and “PIN Number”?  (Like fingernails on a chalkboard to me.)
3. Why does racism STILL exist?  Why did it ever?
4. Why can an 18 year old young man risk his life while serving in our military – but be denied the right to purchase alcohol when he returns home from war?
5. Why is there a braille keypad on drive-up ATMS?
6. How can a mother who has brought a child into this world, elect to terminate a subsequent pregnancy?
7. Why does the Christian Community often ostracize the homosexual community rather than embrace them as we embrace adulterers, thieves, liars, and people with addictions?  I feel confident that if Jesus were walking on Earth today, he’d be spending time with our gay brothers and sisters – just as He spent time with prostitutes, lepers and Pharisees.  (One of my best friends for years was a gay man, a Christian – in fact, the son of a Minister.  If I understand scripture correctly – he was no more a sinner than my straight friends.)
8. Why does society pressure people into being parents when some people should definitely NOT be responsible for the life of a child …not even a hamster in some cases?
9. How can any parent claim to love a child and then neglect, abuse or abandon them? (see #8)
10. Why do some parents buy their underage children alcohol and cigarettes in an attempt to gain their affection  - then act surprised when years later, those “now adult” children have no respect for them as a parent?
11. Do people pronounce the word “Dawn” – “Dwon?”  No? Then, why is it I’m called “Twonda” on a daily basis?
12. If we are what we eat, then why am I not fat-free?  Better yet, why do I get “cottage cheese thighs?”
13. Why is the speed limit on Jones Road 35mph? 
14. Why is the speed limit on 285 65mph? (If you were to drive 65mph – your car would quickly become an accordion?)  It seems they should either raise the speed limit or start enforcing the current one.
15. The Christian Bubble:  How are Christians to impact the world for the Kingdom of God if they ONLY spend time with like-minded people?  (One reason I’m glad my children went to public school….although, it took me a long time to get over the “false guilt” of not sending them to private Christian school or Homeschooling.)  It’s pretty amazing to know that my kids have had a positive impact on others who may never have darkened a church’s door.
16. Why do we have an “emergency brake” in our cars – has anyone ever used it in an emergency?  (I only use it when parking.)
17. Why do friends think it’s odd that I wash fresh produce with soap?  (Would they eat a potato fresh from the garden without first cleaning it? I think not.)
18. Why do many people find it okay to eat grapes right from the produce bin in the local supermarket?  Since they’re priced by pound – isn’t that stealing?  Isn’t it also a bit gross since others have groped the fruit and it’s unwashed?  Ick.
19. Why do some parents of teenagers think it’s an abomination to take them to see a movie with love scenes, but are completely fine with movies filled with murder, gruesome combat scenes, gang activity, domestic violence, racism, drug abuse, etc.?
20. How is it that so many people dislike cats?  They are the sweetest animals on Earth – and they don’t destroy sheetrock, dump trashcans, tinkle outside of their litter box, etc. 
21. Why are so many country songs DEPRESSING?
22. How did a relative die with Cirrhosis of the liver - when he was a very outspoken tee-totaller?
23. Why do people in “soup lines” have smart phones with data plans?  ($30-$40 would buy a lot of “soup”.)
24. Why do a handful of people read my blog and then criticize me for being too emotional in my writings?  (It’s MY blog)
25. Why did so many “experts” attribute Casey Anthony’s behavior to a “dysfunctional family”?  (I know of no family without some level of dysfunction – it’s not a justification for poor decisions, but should serve as a catalyst to make better ones.)
26. Why is it that after a week of vacation, it feels like we need a week of vacation?
27. Why do the instructions on Lean Cuisines stipulate that the 1-2 minutes of “sitting time” be in the microwave?  (I’ve tried sitting the entrée on the counter and it clearly makes no difference.)
28. Why do people in prison get out early because of “good behavior?”  Isn’t that a contradiction?
29. Why, as a child, was I told that playing “Old Maid” and “Go Fish” – were sinful activities, of a gambling nature? 
30. Why couldn’t all of my freckles have converged, creating one incredible tan?
31. Why do people feel the need to drive aggressively?  Rather than elevating their own blood pressure while endangering others, they could simply chill out.  To be quite honest – we all seem to get to the parking lot, traffic light, etc. at about the same time.  What’s another 30-45 seconds?
32. When will the “Debbie Downers” figure out that no one wants to be around a chronic complainer?  We all have reasons to be grateful…wouldn’t life be more enjoyable if those “worst case scenario” people would focus on life’s little blessings rather than harp on every trivial annoyance?
33. Why do families feel that it’s beneficial to keep secrets from one another?  If your teenager/adult child makes a stupid decision – or several destructive choices, it’s seems a good idea to let the rest of the family in on what’s going on.  Having siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins aware would likely serve to help the child (and the parents) with loving admonition, prayer, encouragement and accountability.  Everyone does stupid stuff at some point – why do we pretend otherwise?  This is just another way too many parents ENABLE their children. 
34. What happened to Dick and Jane?  (Was there a final installment that I missed?)
35. Why are people often quick to accept hearsay as truth but quickly reject absolute truth as a lie?  If you believed all that has been said of me, you’d believe I have been incarcerated – drug addicted – and pregnant outside of wedlock….none of which are true.  (I did tour Alcatraz though...so I guess I was "in prison" - once.)  
36. Why are women too often competitive with their “friends”?  I figured out in my teen years that guys are much easier to be friends with…they’re oftentimes more honest, far less manipulative, better at keeping confidences,  and  in the case of my friend in #7,  a great fashion consultant.
37. Why is anticipation often greater than surprise? 
38. Why do so many sense their calling in life is to “judge others”?  (Perhaps honest self-examination would be time better spent.)
39. Why did I have to learn the metric system in second grade?
40. Was I switched at birth?  If not, then why did God place me in my family of origin?  How would I have been different if placed in another? 
41. What was the purpose of the $2 bill? 
42. Why is it so hard for us moms to say goodbye to our children when we have spent years preparing them for independence? (Did we fail to prepare ourselves?)
43. Why did God choose to save a wretch like me?  Why did He choose to bless me so abundantly?   Why did He grace me, one so underserving, with such an amazing husband and wonderful children? Health, a home that I love and  friends that I adore? Why me?  Forever I am grateful...and for each and every candle that's added to my birthday cake, I am thankful. 

       C'mon 43.... "Bring it!"