Hi All

Just want to say hi to everyone, and also want to thank you Illa for reporting on Ben's health. My heart and prayers are with you guys. I keep missing Ben's calls and my cell phone is not working most the time at home so use our land line, unfortunately we don't have long distance so can't call out.
I got off the road again so will probably be getting a school bus job soon.
We were hoping to make the reunion but probably wont now with everything so unsure and in our economy and our income cut in half. We are also having to help our kids out financially and hoping for Amy and her husband to moving close to us or maybe in with us.
Dick, did you get that picture of Lenette, she may go by Swain. I guess Shirley remarried and her husband adopted her. Vicky said she and one of her boys saw her with her mom in Oregon City twice recently but don't think that is where they live. I wish I had more info for you. Becky even tried my space but couldn't find anything.

went "FISHING"

this was taken about 7:30 on sunday morning on the willamette in newberg. when we got theree the water was as smooth as glass. I and a friend that has a boat spent the day beating the water with assorted lures. it was a good day anyway.

Cats and fire

Ben isn't the only one that is infatuated with fire. 

Its either that or he's comatose from the odor emitting from the sneakers.

Dick

Lili

I am so happy that all are getting better and seeing the time when Ben can go HOME, Jess does not what me to work at this time, so I can be there for Ben and Illa, if they need me, otherwise I will go the Bonnie and Rick's, if they will have me. Jess wants to see how I do there as I have such allergies here, we do have a other locations, up in Washington, the tree's I do not react to.

Also when I work on what I plan to do, I will not put in anything that is hurtful, I can't see what it would hurt to do this for the family, as it's kind of like a game,... where in the world is my family member, and one can go and create their own game from it, with the family and friends, so it makes it personal. Also I will be working in the music and movie, creations. With my painting, and creative work I do, it will be fun, I just wishes to share a little bit of what I am and do, as I will also be working with issues world wide. I do understand, Dick, and will take considerations of your feeling and respect it, with love. We have such a special family, and the love we have, I want to share with, this family has love with all the belief's and I hope we show or respect for each of us, this I wish to show in my gift to family, I believe in personal connection and love. As I know, my family really does not know me and what I do........ Love aunty Lili

Mo' good news!!

No, Randy and Claudia aren't having twins.

After playing phone tag with Ben and Chuck we were finally able to make contact on Saturday. I was able to talk to each of them for about 35 minutes. Both sounded strong and much better than the last time I talked to them. Ben has been up and moving around more and has fewer IVs to deal with, and Chuck has been taking his high blood pressure pills. Chuck also has some paperwork to fill out in hopes of getting some type of medical insurance coverage. He assures me that he will fill out the paperwork and send it back, unlike his original retirement papers. Excuse me, I must interject at this point a great big applause to Ben, Illa, and Mitch for moving that process forward (thundering roar of applause...and good karma).

Hopefully, both will be able to get on the internet and contribute their thoughts, opinions, and perspectives soon. They may be wrong, but Peter will set them straight. Illa mentioned in a previous post it's something that she's working on. By no means not the only thing, as she's a very busy woman about now. Chuck mentioned he now has the internet and I gave him the address again so hopefully he'll be on soon too.

Now, if we can find Dick a job that he likes (by the ocean) and Lisi continues to improve, things may be smooth for awhile.

Lili, have you taken your SIM card out of your now defunct iPhone? All of your data may still be available, but you'll have to put it in another phone. I have an extra cell phone if you need it.

Jim

Lili

Dear all,

Its great to see the family growing, also I lost all the birthdays, addresses, names and emails to family, trying to collect them again as Jess gave my iPhone a bath, did not mean to,.... So I lost everything on it, Lis is doing great, she's been sick, can't hear good, it's great seeing her connecting with her daughter. Please send my the information from all, so I can do the family tree, that I am working on, also marriages and all............ I would like to have it all together for the next famiy reuion as I am working on something fun, in my schooling, and I would like this to be the project to give to family, but need the information, it will only go out to the family. Also I would like to get family pictures to put into it and on it. It's a story of fun and facts, also looking at all the connections. Love Lili

Grandpa Jim

I found the the image.

Dick

Memories to look back into.

Click on the triangle and turn your volume up.

It's a grandson!!!

At least that's what the image shows. Claudia had an ultrasound last week. What, you can't tell? Actually, I couldn't quite make it out either, but the ultrasound technician said that the image shows all the proper plumbing to be a boy. That's good, because now their list of possible names has been slashed by 49%, and they can now choose the color for the baby's room.

Randy (and Claudia) left home again last night! They had been staying in the little apartment for the last month. They stayed their first night in the Mason Court house. I'm going over today to help them install the kitchen sink, connect the fixtures, and move the range in. Still there's a lot of little things to do, but it is quasi-livable.

Ben left a message on our machine yesterday, and it was very good to hear his voice. It sounded much stronger than the last time I had talked to him. I tried to call ack this morning, but he didn't pick up.

Also, I tried to call call Chuck this morning to find out the lastest on him but was only able to leave a message.

Jim

Revelation--Our economy sucks

So i got finished the sierra nevada run on friday and got back to the plant. The shop forman called me into the office and told me that our production is down 50% of what it should be and that by the end of the year they expect it to be another 30. 

So then I said so im laid off. he said "yep". they have cut back to 2 trucks going down south every week. ill be getting a couple of letters of recommmendation and i also have a special recognization  that should help.

Its a good thing i dont have to spell. :)

Dick

Justin Davis

Lueria asked me to post this on the blog for her, as she did not know how to get on the blog, I did send her the information. So, I am doing this on her request. I know that Justin would love to here form you and it would help him on his program,

Justin Davis
335 NE Blogett Rd.
Yachats OR 97498.

He has no connection on the computer, as it's not allowed just snail mail. So, a new world is opening up to him, he's doing forestry I guess, he has no phone connection also. So please lets all write and let him know we love him, some funny cards would be great, and anything working in the woods., laugh. we all have stories of life in the wooods!!!!!!!!!!!! Love Lili

Bens first days

Well, he is there. It hasn't been that great. He isn't sleeping, has a roommate that is totally different. He needs the heat and Ben needs the cold, so neither one isn't getting much rest. They only gave him one pain pill during the first night. The nurses didn't know that he had an order for his pain pump so it was not hooked up until noon the next day. He didn't get the IV's until late that night for his TPN (food) and fluids. He wouldn't let them do the dressing the next day until after the pump had been hooked up and had some pain medication because he was in such pain and it really hurts to take those things off as his skin is so irritated. They did a dressing and bag change yesterday and it took 5 hours start to finish. They started him out on the lowest dosage of medication thinking he didn't need it much. Finally about 2 am they had him up to what he was on at the other hospital and it was finally starting to work abit and take the edge off. They weren't going to hook the drains up to suction as they didn't have an order for it. I kept after them and they finally called the Dr. to get the order. They were also supposed to change the dressing on the pick line in his left arm but didn't. I finally told the nurses and the Dr. today that if they didn't get it changed today, then get me the things and I would do it. I guess I am making a name for myself there. When I first introduced myself to the Dr. today, he said "Oh Yes, I've heard about you". He didn't clarify anything else about that. Don't know if that is good or bad but I really hate to see things that aren't done or they say they are going to do something and don't. If you can't do it, give it to me and I will do it. Like today, PT wants him up and walking, Dr. want's his tubes on continous suction. PT said that they have a portable suction and that they would bring one so that Ben could get up and walk. Well, they only have 2 in the whole hospital so if Ben wants to walk then he would have to wait for it, conflicts with PT wanting him to walk as much as possible. So I had had enough of the stalling and run around, so I said heck with it, I would do the same thing they did at Mercy and just unhook the tube from the suction and put the end in a glove while he was walking. So I did. Got him up and we walked down the hall to the elevator, went to first floor and down a long hall thru the dining room to the courtyard. We stayed out there for about 30 minutes or so until Ben was ready to walk back to the room. Not 10 minutes after we got back PT came into to say they saw that Ben was up and moving and was really surprised to see that he had gone so far. They had read his chart and it says that he has COPD and Congestive Heart Failure so they were gearing their program around that. So we got the Dr. to clear that off his chart today as he has neither to our knowledge. Ben weighs 141 pounds now.

I stayed the night in the room with him as I had been kicked out of the Hospitality house when they found out that Ben had been released from he hospital. At least they gave me back the money I had given them. So I didn't sleep in the car. I was afraid that I might have to, but the hospital let me sleep in the room. They didn't say a word but gave me a Gerry chair to sleep in. They gave me my meals but I had to work for it. I had to do the jobs that the CNA was supposed to do (which was jobs that I did already) so mostly the only people we saw were the nurses and the head people (seemed like 50 million of them that kept coming in). They have him set up for Long Term Acute Care. Ben want's to come home after about 3 weeks but I don't think that is going to happen that soon. I think that it will be more like the 3 months that the Dr. is talking about because of the planned surgeries. When they go in to reconstruct things we also want them to take out the tumors there and take the stones out of the Gall Bladder too as they seem to be causing some of the possible problems and they are already in the general area so might as well do it all now and not later put him thru all this again.

To come home with all the contraptions they have hooked up to him we need home health care person licensed by this state to stop in and check the stuff at least once a day and be able to do the dressing changes. I could do all the stuff necessary but not set up the machines with the ordered dosages. I also don't know the dosage correlations of the medicines to input into the machines. I probably could if trained on them but those nurses at both places really make it hard for you to watch what they are doing with them. So I have to check around with the different nursing persons from this area that I know to see if they would be willing to stop in and do that and be paid by the hospital for that service.

Lili, I talked with Ben about the electric bed and stuff and he thought that would be great if you had all that stuff that would be needed. We don't know yet what all would be needed but some of it might be provided but we don't know just what or how they would go about it or when it would be needed.

So anyway will see what happens while I am gone. So I guess I am earning whatever name I am getting there.

We can't get on the internet there even tho we were told that we could if fwe had a laptop with wireless capability. The hospital is working on it for us and will pay for dialup connection thru Net Zero. Dick is helping us get the right connections for Ben's Mac so hopefully by next week he will be on so he can read and write on the Blog. He was really looking forward to reading what everyone had written and put stuff on himself. He is accepting this little set back gracefully.

So this should catch you up on what is happening to date. Will talk with everyone next week. I am back at the house. I am trying to get the trailer down on Tuesday. I won't sleep in that chair again if I can get that there. So you all have a good night and a great weekend. We love you all and thank you all very much for everything.

I forgot, Ben has a direct phone line into his room. It is 530-245-4265. When we get the comp hooked up it will be on a splitter. He won't be able to use the phone when online. So if you get a buzy signal after that, he will be on the computer. I don't think that the hospital receptionist is able to transfer calls. The address of the hospital is

Northern California Rehabilitaion Hospital
2801 Eureka Way (299 W)
Redding, Ca. 96001
530-2456-9000

It is directly across the street from the Seventh Day Adventist Church. We have told Dick that when he comes thru to visit there is lots of room for him to park his truck there in the church lot with easy access to the street.

Love Ben and Illa

Ben's Moved

Well, Ben is at the new hospital. He is in room 291 A. He has a roommate. He got there about 6 pm. He was supposed to be moved by 4:30 pm but no such luck. I got to the hosp. at 6 pm but thought they had already moved him so I just got my room then went to check to make sure that he had been moved. Luck as they forgot a couple of things in his old room.

I was going to bring down the trailer but couldn''t get all the lights working so I refused to drive it that way. I was also going to stop and try to get it registered but also wanted everything to work just in case they checked. Oh well, there is alway next week and now I know what I need to work on.

Ben is very tired tonight. A lot of pushing and prodding and not accomplishing much. I hope it didn't take too long for him to get his pain meds. They took him off his push button thing and IV for transport and I don't know if he is going to get it back or not. Just have to wait and see what transpires I guess. He has his comp. now but too tired to work it tonight. So will see about tomorrow.

You can get him at Northern California Rehab Hospital. Number is 530-246-9000. His room number is 291 A. He also has his cell phone. I don't remember if there was a bedside phone or not. I was dead tired when I got there and barely functioning in my mind but did at least get an inventory sheet filled out of his personal stuff. So I don't know what all is in his room. I do know that I am going to have to get a better chair to sit in. Don't know how long he will be there. He still has all his bags and retention stitches. The big suction drain is stuffed into a baggie. I don't know what that is all about. Hopefully I will be more with it tomorrow to really ask questions.

So that is the newest news on this front. Will write more later. I am bushed.

Love Ben and Illa

SUZI

does this look like anyone you know.

I want to apoligize for being -------->

I probobly was tuned out when we talked about it.

And i have had an awful couple of weeks with work.

IM SORRY FOR BEING AND ASS TOWARD YOU.

DICK 

Suzy

Great to here your trip was fun, sorry I could not pick you up, still can't talk. I look forward to the reuion and the place. It's great there and I do fell we need to have you in on this, as we are welcoming Richardo home and in the support of the family. My plans are to be at Bonnie and Ricks and drive back with them to the reunion , that is what I plan, also am waiting for the funds to come in from my lotto, in TN. By the way, I CALLED THEM, and asked if it was fraud, they emailed me back saying they do not do fraud in the USA, what do you think taxes are!!!!, laugh.
I received $500.000.00. So FIRST Bonnie and Rick, get my 10% tithe. Also I am looking to getting Jess payed back from what has been paid out, and I know a few of my siblings can use help. and finishing off paying off the house and finishing that work.

I look forwards to hearing from you Suzy, and it seems all the girls will be attending, I hope so. Thank you and set the date, Dick we did have one family reunion there and it was great, have wanted to see the area again. Also Lisi and I talked to Suzy, and backed her up, it will be great for Lisi to see the coast, my look into buying there myself, also working with Suzy on some issues. We will all be welcome and I look forwards to seeing Chuck. I have a few surprises to bring and work with Suzy on, for this family reunion. It's been a hard year and we wish to see some fun. Love Lili

RENUION 2009

WE NEED TO DISCUSS. NOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!

OH and Jim, I talked to Bonnie and they are in. I have some ideas. Ill email my ideas to you.

Ben - Clark Kent - Superman

I got a call FROM ben tonight. man it was good to talk to him, he sounded soooooooooo good.

alot better than last time. He could actually carry on a conversation. well as much as he ever could:). we talked for about 1/2 hour. it was really good and did my heart good, and did his heart good too.

I also talked to Bonnie, at Bens pushiness, I mean his prompting. They are in AZ. and on their way home and expecting Ricks sister, brother-in-law, and mom for a few days. talked to bonnie for about an hour. She is hooking me up with a picture of Lynnette thats about 4 years old. I CANT WAIT. It was good to talk to her. Im such a toul.

Dick

Ben- Friday

Ben only got up to walk once today. The drains were leaking and it took all day to get someone to change them. He also didn't get his blood transfusion (2 units) until tonight. He is feeling pretty good but walking wears him out. The Dr. are again thinking about transferring him on Monday now as there is less drainage. Have to wait and see Dr. Malik says. I brought the stuff in the bag to his attention today and so he took the bags alittle loose to see just where it was coming from. It looked like it was coming from the bottom stoma which was good. So it is supposed to be separated into several bags again. So will see how that goes. Ben says it leaks easier that way which it probably does as there is such a large area to cover.

So we are still playing the waiting game. Hope you all have a good weekend.

Love Ben and Illa

Ben outside

Ben has been up and walking 2 times today. He even made it into a wheelchair and went outside for 30 minutes. He is finally getting a few ice chips and a popsicile or two. He still has cruddy drainage and doesn't look right but I have been told that is what is to be expected. There is still a lot of stuff that shouldn't be there and I think that it should be flushed out everyday but again, what do I know. My thoughts are, better to be out than in and faster than what it is doing as it is chunky and thick but I guess that is what the Dr. wants. I know if it was me, I wouldn't want that in there eating things away.

Because of the drainage, Ben won't be released for about another 2 weeks. So, will see what happens. Ben is also getting blood again tomorrow. Not sure how many units but would suspect 3 again.

He has his phone again and the charger but only has it on again for a few minutes. So if you call leave a message. He will get it.

Anyway, I back in the room. So will talk to you all tomorrow night. Sleep well guys. Don't work toooooo hard.

Love Ben and Illa

Ben's walking pretty good

Ben has been up 2 times today. I just missed the first one when I got there. Then about 6 pm he got up and walked again. Over 200 feet this time and at a pretty good clip. He was tired when getting back to bed but he was pretty happy. He used his own walker that I brought in. I etched his name and driver's license number on it so it wouldn't sprout legs.

He still isn't getting any fluids as he is still draining more than the Dr. thinks he should. He now has thrush in his mouth from not getting any fluids to clean out his mouth. So they are treating that too. I haven't gotten to see his tummy area as it is still pretty bandaged up. They has had to change it three days in a row as it keeps leaking. His poor skin is so irritated.

He is taking everything pretty well though. He has got some really nice nurses that have taken care of him for so long now. One of them that is really good even tho she is really busy is taking a week off. She is really hoping that Ben is not there when she gets back and that he is closer to going home. Some of them even remember how much sugar and cream that I take in my coffee and make sure that there is enough on his bed stand for me. They also make sure I get my meals. I hate to eat in front of Ben but it isn't really bothering him and he is happy that I am there and that he sees me eat something. Tonight something I ate made me sick. With in about 15 minutes of eating I was having to run to the bathroom. Thank heavens that there is one close. I can't use the patient one in the room this time as it has to be available for 4 people. I left about 7 so that I could be close to one. At least I am pretty sure it was something I ate then as it was so close to eating dinner.

So, we both are resting quietly.

Lili will see what is needed when Ben gets out from all the hospitals. We may need a lot when he does get home but won't know until that time gets closer. Thank you for the offer of everything.

At the new hospital there is no hospitality house for me to stay in. But they do have RV spaces so am going to try to get the little trailer registered so that I can put it there while he is there. At least that won't cost anything. One site is full hookup and the others are power and water only. So that is pretty cool and they have Wi Fi so that Ben and I can use our laptops there. That made Ben happy that he would be able to have his comp. there.

Teresa I would love to have you come to the house. Will have to see what we can work out. We all have schedules that need to be worked around. I know that you could use a break also.

Just talked to Dick on the phone. He is not on another planet after all!! But has been really busy running around as if he was. Work, work, work. We all know how that is. Sometimes you get so caught up that you forget there is something else. Slow down guys. That is me included. It was great to talk to him again. Also let him know that I am leaving Ben his cell phone again. It will be charged up and hopefully you will be able to get thru to him. He hates trying to call out from the hospital as he has to call collect. So anyone want to talk to him after tomorrow, he will have his phone.

So I am going to go outside for a few minutes and then go to bed. You all have a good night.

Love Ben and Illa

Hi everyone

It's great to here Ben is doing better, and will love it when I can talk. The pill's are working, and with taking a rest, I know that I will recover. Jess is doing better but having trouble with it to, just hope he does not get it again from me. We are both taking it easy, though the house has been put on hold. It seems anytime we plan something, then that is when it seem to take place.

I was looking forward to spending time with Suzy, but no way did I wish to have her get this, we will connect.

Illa, I have stuff like crazy, electric bed, and other stuff, if you need it. We will bring it down to you. Just let us know what you need, as we have the stuff that may help it make it easier for you once Ben comes home. Love J&A

Ben - Sept. 16, 08

I talked to Ben today. I called about 3pm. I was really happy to hear his voice, it really sounded good! The difference in his voice and capability to communicate was huge. Before, his voice was very weak and he'd fall asleep in the middle of a sentence. Now he was asking me questions with a strong voice. When I was in Redding, the Doc asked him to describe his pain from 1-10, he said "about a six". I asked him how his pain level was now, he said about a 2, but sometimes a 3. As Illa said, they are trying to get him to heal up enough to move him to a care facility there in Redding.

I'm really encouraged at the condition of his spirit, the first thing he asked is, how Chuck was. I have to tell you, I really appreciate how good of a heart he has. Here is trapped in a body, not quite as tough as he is, and giving him all kinds of trouble, yet he's able to be concerned for others. PnK

Lili

High everyone, I've been busy and now and down, I will recover but for now I can't talk. I'm wearing a mask and doing to best I can. Staying quite. Love to all.

Some good news.

In spite of all the health issues that our family is facing and Hurricane Ike moving the coastal parts of Texas inland, there is still good news. I've heard that things really are bigger in Texas, and now, I must say, they're right.

We've been working on our Mason Court house evening and weekends, for the last month, and we're getting to the point where we can see daylight at the end of the tunnel. We've kept it as a rental since we moved to our house on Gale Way. I've not regretted for a moment the move to our home on Gale Way, but I've dreaded the time I knew it would take to fix up the Mason Court house. It's been a rental for about 8 years and was long overdue for a major 'fixup.' The time has arrived. We've painted, repaired, caulked, replaced, revitalized, and fixed. New doors, windows, trim boards, stove, bathroom cabinet, laminate (kitchen and bathroom), and carpet.

I'm ready to be done. I've done remodel stuff I've not done before. I feel as if I've earned my Junior Carpenter Badge, Junior Laminate Badge, Junior Electrician Badge, and my Journeyman Painting Badge.

Randy and Claudia are going to be buying it from us, and I must say, I'm glad. The baby is due in January and you can call me 'grandpa' then. The cycle of life continues. This is not to say I don't enjoy this kind of work, I just wish that it would have happened at the beginning of summer, you probably wouldn't have seen so many pictures of my feet!

Jim

Chuck Sat. update

I just got off the phone with Carlene after leaving a message on Chuck's answering machine. She said that she picked him up from the hospital Thursday afternoon. He is still experiencing feeling dizzy, but it is less than what it was. He appears to be able to think clearer. He is using a walker to get around the house as he seems to lean to the left some, probably from the having the stroke. The tests indicated that he had started experiencing the stroke about four days prior to going to the hospital. He was sent home with some sulfa drugs which evidently are an antibiotic, as well as a prescription for more high blood pressure pills. I'll let you know more when I hear more.
Jim

Anyone hear how Chuck is doing???

Ben Friday 9-12-08

Peter

They are calling Adenocarcinoma. It did not originate in the colon but outside and grew 2 directions. One toward the left kidney and around the two left ureters and the other had just breached the colon wall. If it had not grown around the ureters (normally there is one but Ben is not normal in any circumstance) and squeezed them shut and backed up the urine in the kidney causing extreme pain. The Dr.s said that they would have never found it in time before doing surgery if it had not done that.

They are not sure of what caused it as it did not start in a usual place for colon cancer, it has spread to the lungs and liver as well as into the abdomen and the lymph nodes. But supposedly at this time the liver is clear. The Avastin must have worked there but not elsewhere.

He is hanging in tonight. He will hopefully be release on the 20th to the Northern California Rehabilitation Hospital on Eureka Way. It is directly across from the Seventh Day Adventist Church there. That is the plan unless something else happens. The Dr. says to expect to be there any where from 2 weeks (minimum if all goes well) to at least 3 months. He says that some cases have taken that long to heal. That mans that Ben would be without anything by mouth for that long. Right now they are afraid to try to give him anything else in case he should sprout more holes and these haven't healed. He was saying that all these holes are popping up above the illiostomy in the small intestine and he would cause more damage trying to go in to fix them right now that to let them try to heal on their own. The Dr. kept knocking on wood when ever he gave a time limit on what he thought to expect. So that tells me that he isn't really sure it will work. He also said that he wouldn't even try to go back in to fix anything until he has given it at least 3 months to try to heal on its own. So he can be expected to be there until about Christmas time if things go as they have been. He is trying to accept that but it is hard.

He is resting quietly tonight. He called the house this time instead of me calling him. So he must be feeling better. You all have a good night. Love to all. Ben and Illa

Much better today

Ben had a better day today. Felt like getting his spounge bath and doing his hair. His pain is better under control. He was awake the biggest part of the day. I hated eating in front of his but he wanted to make sure I eat something.

PT came in today and did bed exercises. Stuff that wouldn't strain the abdominal muscles but work on keeping the arms and legs moving. I didn't get to see the incision today as it was still bandaged up from the other day and holding. Was collecting the drainage well. The Dr. said would go another day without liquids and see what happens tomorrow. At least he is peeing on his own and not straining too much. Not getting that much at a time considering how much fluid is going in by IV. His left foot is swelling but he can't seem to keep it on the pillow to elevate it. He is getting very figity.

So he is taking things very well. I told him about Suzi's trip and about Chuck. He was glad that he had someone living in the house who was able to help him. I think we all are. Thank you Charlene and Mitch for everything you have done. Hopefully we can keep tabs on him better. By the way, haven't heard from Dick lately. Are you still on this planet?? Or just really busy?? Or are you the anonymus poster??

Glad to see you on the Blog Teresa. Now if we can only get BJ on here too. I met some people here at the hospitality house from Mc Cloud. The girl played air hockey with BJ just the other night. That was pretty cool. Nice family. They are here because the lady's mother also has Cancer and surgery and tumors that can't be operated on so are doing the radiation thing. Pretty small world.

Well, hope you all have a good night. Talk to you tomorrow. Love to all. Ben and Illa

Ben Update

Well Ben had another major setback today. He waited until I got there to have breakfast again. He had jello and it did not stay where it was supposed to. Within half an hour he ruptured again and it came out the incision. It still was of the same concistancy as when he ate it. So that means the hole is up somewhere close to the base of the stomach above the bag that the food is supposed to go in. Now the Dr. believes me when I tell him where I think something is. It isn't as if I have any real knowledge of the insides, it is just common sense and figuring things out. Like Duh!!!! So now Ben has lost his liquid diet, juice, and Ice chips. The Dr. wants to let the bowel rest again and see if it will heal with 48 hours. He didn't say what he would do if it didn't. Now the possible release date has been pushed back to 9-20. He is heavily medicated again to keep him from moving around. So that means no PT at all. The only good thing is that he did get rid of his Foley so he can pee on his own but that may change again depending on circumstances.

We are still hanging in there. Give our Love to Chuck and hope that he gets better. Smack him in the arm as he told me that he would take his medicine like he was supposed to. Or even kick him in the shins. That hurts more and might make him remember better.

Love to all and hope all have a good night. Ben and Illa

The latest on Chuck

Just wanted to fill everyone on the latest with Chuck. Mitch called last night and said that Chuck had gone to the hospital via ambulance. When he was admitted his blood pressure was 203/130. Mitch had thought that Chuck may have been suffering from food poisoning since he had been throwing up and feeeling dizzy. Mitch had seen him Tuesday afternoon and Chuck was still dizzy and tired. Mitch had found his blooed pressure pills and seen that Chuck had more left than he should have had. Which means that he had not been taking them on a regular basis.

This is a email I just received from Carlene today:
Hi! How you all doing lately?
Just wanted to fill you in on the latest.
Yesterday Chuck was not feeling well, he had been kind of depressed looking last several days and I kept asking him how he felt. Couldn't get much feedback other than ''ok" I ran to the store to get him juice and when I got back he asked me to call an ambulance (Mon night). He had been throwing up ALL OVER the place! He said he was dizzy. Hospital kept him over night. doctor called me and said they did a CAT scan and could see evidence of several small strokes. Dr said they would keep him another day (until Wed.) and bring in an advice nurse, physical therapist and social worker to see if he is eligible for Medicare or whatever. When I stopped by this evening he was better but says he still gets very dizzy when he opens his sees any motion. He is staying at Folsom Mercy Rm 118. The number is (916)983-7400. Pin number: 8937.
Will fill you in when I learn more.
Carlene

When I talked to her this evening she had said that she talked to the doctor and he had said that there was evidence of a previous stroke as far back as three years ago, and this last stroke had probably started about five days previous. At this point Carlene said that it looks like Chuck will be released on Thursday.

Jim

Heading For Arizona & Lisi

Well you know it didn't take me any time to book a ticket to see my kids in AZ. I'm heading there tomorrow. I'll be back next Tuesday. I'll get down there as often as possible. I might have to buy a vacation home or something if Kara stays way down there. I've always teased Kara about having a mother-in-law room in any home she might have. Hey maybe that's why she isn't married yet ! You already know I tell any prospective son in law .. I come with the ready made family package!

So I'll have pictures and stuff to report after I get back.

I had a great visit with our sister Lisi last weekend. She is doing well and eager to get started on maybe taking classes, getting back to her music, singing and maybe art. The twins were always so talented in all that artsy stuff ! She is working on beading and had made a beautiful necklace. I have high hopes for her. She has so much to offer. She's lived such a hard life with her illnesses and has so much to offer as a peer to others who have struggled to get life on track and keep it on track with the challenges she faces daily.

I hope all will keep in touch with her via e-mail, letters or cards of encouragement as she enters another path in her life. She is going to need positive re-enforcements to keep her focused on what can be with a carefully laid plan. She will be supported by a great team; which I hope to remain part of.

And for future references to diabetes and mental illnesses .. which family ... RUNS IN FAMILIES!!! .. Staying on track with blood sugars is imperative ! Being low or high can manifest as dementia ( loss of memory, anger outbursts, confusion ), depression, narcosis, phychosis, imbalance etc. Being anemic also manifests as mental illness. It also runs in the family. According to studies, 85% of mental illnesses could be eliminated by putting the mentally ill on B12 shots or the dissolving tablets. Most people are taking vitamins in the form of pills or tablets that do not digest in the digestive track, therefore are not dispersed properly.

So if you have loved ones who have any issues that look like any of these symptoms, please make sure you check for UTI's, Blood sugars, anemia, and allergies ... as an underlying issue for mental distress. I have taken care of brain injured and mentally ill people for years now, in my home, and most of it can be regulated with nutrition and vitamin supplements along with the needed meds the Dr. prescribe. But the meds alone can not alleviate the symptoms, they just cover them up.

Talk to you all soon.

Illa, give Ben my love and love to all of you and the family!

Suzanne

Ben Tue 9-9-08

Sorry that I didn't get to post last night. I had to stay in a motel and could not log on even tho there was supposed to be free internet. Luckily tonight I got back into the Hospitality house. Thank you all for the money. It really helped. Paid for gas, motel and animal food.

Ben is looking better today. He still really hurts and is really cranky. The surgeon took out some of the packing in the incision today. he is talking about taking some of the retention sutures out and putting in a wound vac so suck out some of the guck. He was going to put Ben on a soft diet, Ben wanted scrambles eggs, until he looked at the bags and the stuff. He decided not to as he has finally decided that, Yes he is leaking stuff from the small bowel (stuff that is supposed to ge going into the bag below his stomach) into the abdomen. So much for Ben's desire for eggs. Back to liquids again. But at least it is something. He could have took him all the way back to nothing at all. The other Dr. dropped the amount of IV fluids that Ben is getting. Just enough to be able to run the PCA pump (pain pump). They are also going to remove the Foley so that he can try to start peeing on his own. Hopefully that works as he is getting infected there too.

I am not sure when, but the plan is to release him to a Rehabilitation Facility sometime this week or next week. The surgeon said something about them being able to monitor the wound suction vac. This place is somewhere over on Eureka Way by the Adventist Church. Thank God. I really hoped that they would not release him to home yet because if something went wrong we would not be able to deal with it.

Ben did make it up to walk about 10 feet today and sit in a chair about 10 minutes. That was about all he could take. For not having much muscle anymore his arms are fairly strong. It's his legs that have really lost function. He is doing exercises in the bed tho that should help at least move them. It won't build up the muscle until he can stand weight on them but it keeps them moving.

He is resting quietly now. Hope he asked for the sleeping pill again. Said he forgot last night so didn't sleep well. He is so anxious to get out but at least he understands that he can't go home in this condition yet. He is trying but it is slow going.

Well, I am going to get a cup of coffee and relax for a bit then to bed. You all have a good evening. Love you guys. Ben and Illa

Piping up from somewhere in the mountains

So, yesterday, Athena did something that she's been wanting to do for a very long time, even though the first meeting was brought to my attention by surprise.

Athena is now a proud Brownie Scout within the ranks of the Girl Scouts of America. she's very excited, the den mother seems to be quite capable, Athena knows her well, and she has a few of her old friends in the same troop.

Some of the more experienced girls didn't seem to know what to think about a bleary, obviously dealing with a cold mother that is rarely seen, dragging herself out to take her daughter to the meeting. Then again, these were the same girls that I usually have to turn away when they are doing their fundraising because of not having the funds at the time to be able to count on buying the candy sold.

Athena is very excited, and we will be ordering her uniform and badge study books after school today.

Athena fell asleep on the couch doing her homework yesterday, the den mother made sure to stress that good girl scouts do their homework according to Athena. I've been saying similar for a while... anyway... she didn't finish it last night, I knew she was tired and let her sleep, planning to wake her up early.

She woke up a bit after midnight wanting to finish. I told her to go back to sleep and that I'd get her up in the morning and she could finish then. She went back to her room easily and was very quickly asleep. Both kids actually finished out the night in their room. On waking, she did her work quickly (and correctly *insert happy pump here*), helped feed the cats, and offered to grind my coffee beans while I got Merlin's stuff together.

Athena's words:
"A good girl scout helps out her mom."

So we talked a bit about good deeds and how happy I was to see her trying to live up to the code. It was wonderful to have something nice to say to her instead of having to tell her to stop doing something she shouldn't. She even thinks that she can continue this.

I know I'm going to have to help her, but this is a start. Also, I'm rather glad to see that she is apparently so taken after only one meeting. When I was young, I went to one meeting and that was it. So I'm very glad to see that this troop actually does something interesting.

I'm also glad she didn't decide on 4-H. Where would I put an animal if livestock was her project? I don't even remember if that's all 4-H does. I think it was for the chapter where I grew up...

And Merlin's day today started well too. He woke up easy, getting the clothes on him was simple today (as opposed to chasing a child sized lump of jello) and even stayed on. We watched an episode of Ben-10 (this cartoon is about a young boy that changes into different aliens with the help of a DNA-based watched called an omnitrix, and actually has quite a few nifty science facts sprinkled through... though it's mostly action oriented... just so that the older readers know what I'm talking about) and then played a little bit of the Ben-10 video game (co-op mode) together before his bus arrived.

He would have gone out to the bus easily if I hadn't made him wear his jacket (cold in the mornings here in the mountains, though it gets so hot during the day). I realize that I am going to have to start wearing my back brace again (only during the mornings) to protect my back muscles in the event that he pushes back against me when getting into the bus. He's much stronger than the average 5 year old, don't let anyone tell you differently. His regular doctor would tell you the very same thing.

He's also a bit larger than the average 5 year old. Anyone even thinking of sending clothes for Christmas... size 8 husky or size 9, quite seriously. He's growing again, and if pants are too long, needle and thread can always be a temporary fix till he stretches out. And he is going to. I find it a bit amusing that he's built like my brother (husky) and Athena's built like me (beanpole).

Spoke to mom and dad today, dad still sounds tired, and isn't feeling all that great. Mom says he's got himself a bit of an infection in the incision. Little Athena got to talk to her grandpa though, which made her happy even though she can't go see him yet, trying to keep germs away from him. She enjoyed getting to tell Grandpa that she is now in the Scouts.

Man, is she ever looking forward to the yearly Jamboree... I've no details on this, other than it's not for a looong while.

Dad sounded pretty happy after hearing Athena's big news. When we are ble to go down and see him, I can finally take him his Father's Day gift (had to get it in a frame). It's not framed traditionally for a water color done in the Chinese style, but the frame goes well with it and I didn't do it on rice paper anyway...

Well, it's getting late here, time to start bedding down.

Love,
Teresa

the snotty sister, laugh

I have some fun planned for next year, brother's and sister's, by the way Lisi will be helping out on this. As she missed last year. Chuck please come, all of you, we're looking to have some fun. the snotty sister Lili

Ben Sunday nite

Ben is pretty much the same. Still trying to figure out where he is. Kept thinking he was in Klamath Falls. Couldn't figure out why I would take him there and not to Redding. I am still not sure if he will remember where he is as he has been told at least 6 times already but will probably tell him another 6. He got a good nights sleep last night as they gave him a sleeping pill. He was happy about that. Wil be down there tomorrow so will talk to the Dr.s about his stuff.

Everyone have a good night. Love Ben and Illa

Question- have you been abducted by aliens?

I have a theory, all these folks that claim to have been abducted by aliens. I think all are copy cats, except the first guy. You see, I figure he was actually on drugs -Demerol to be specific. He didn't take it to well, and actually, while he was having a colonoscopy, he imagined he was suffering from an Alien anal prob.

So, have you felt like that? I hope so! But I don't know it. So far Jim, Dick, myself have confessed that we've had our colonoscopy; which, by the way the doctors say you should have after age 50. Then you should have one every 5-7 years, depending on your genetic propensity.

Ok girls, no one likes to talk about these things in mixed gender company, but I can't remember any of you saying you've had a colonoscopy. You don't have to tell us who you are. How about logging in as anonymous. I like to see a bunch of of "affirmatives".

BTW, there's nothing to a colonoscopy. Some do, but I literally did not feel a thing. I wasn't gased, but I did get Demarol and that put me to sleep; I only woke once, and for a second or so. As far as the yukiness factor, well, as Suzie has shared, the ladies go through a lot worse. Just figure you can put up with about anything for a few minutes and "just do it". Ok, how many need to get it done? Peter

Just talked to Ben

He is doing better tonight. Sounds like he ate a few bits more than yesterday. The nurses adjusted his drains and they are working better. He asked them to remove some of the tape holding stuff down as his poor tummy is so red and irritated. He is warmer today than the past few as I guess that the blood transfusion worked and his body accepted it. Did not get up today again due to the drain issue. I guess he is doing as well as cam be expected.

No me, I was digging up some of those thorn plants and twisted my right elbow. Still not sure how I did it but thank heavens I don't have to cook tomorrow. Just have to run the register. but I do have to lift coffee pots. Oh, well. part of the price one has to pay to get the yard back in shape.

So I am going to go soak in the tub now. Will eat when I get out. You all have a good evening. Love you all.

Ben and Illa

That certainly happened quickly!!!

Quick update on Ben

Ben was wide awake this am when I got there. They were messing with his bandages again. He didn't eat anything but did drink 2 little containers of juice.

Ben was getting three units of blood today. They started it before I left. Appearantly he has an anti-body in his blood that would not recognise and accept straight cold blood. It has to be run thru a special warmer to warm the blood to make the body think that it belongs there. Sounds strange to me but the Dr. also said so. So much they know. His body could very well reject the new blood even now. I will call later to see how he is doing. It is supposed to take twelve hours or so to put in all that blood.


I think he still has a leak inside up by the illiostomy but what do I know?. Seems to be more bile coming out of the abdominal drains than that thing. The Dr. did comment on it but didn't sound like he was going to do anything more than watch.

He seemed really proud of himself this morning. I had to go to the bathroom and while I was gone PT camein and got him up, to the chair and did a few exercises. He wanted to know what took me so long. I had gone outside to smoke a cigarette and drink my coffee. On the way out I spilt the coffee in the elevator and then had to clean it up which was a job trying to get to a restroom to get paper towels and then get back to the elevator before someone slipped in it. Then they would not let me back in. While I was out, they had a fire drill for 10 minutes and wouldn't let anyone back in. By the time they did I had to get to a bathroom again and ended up running all over trying to find one that was not occupied. Those doors that aren't supposed to close on people, they do.

Well, I got back to the house and got unloaded. Checked the animals and looks like we lost 2 more kittens and a fish. So I figured that I would clean the fish tank. Should be easy right? NOT!!!! I didn't want to walk out to the trailer to get the bucket so thought I would use the trash can instead. I looked (I thought) to see if there were any holes. The big one does. I didn't see any. So I started suctioning off the water. So far so good. Got it about half done, thought I would just let it siphone off and put in clear water. Looked down in the can expecting to see 6+ gallons of dirty water. There was only about 1 in there. I thought what the heck! and tipped it to the side. Bad idea. So I looked closer. There was 5+ gallons of dirty fish water running under the table and all over the carpet. Just what I wanted to do now. Clean the carpet. So much for my restful evening at home before working the next couple of days. Oh well. Will have to do it again later but much better next time. I am tooooo tired.

Well, hope everyone else has a better weekend. Love to all. Ben and Illa

A weekend before the start of another semester

I finished my last paper for the last class on Tuesday and I already have homework for the new semester class this Wednesday!! It looks to be a grueling semester but apparently I am a "gluten for punishment" because I am looking forward to this next opportunity to learn and do it well! I thank those of you who are my inspiration (Jim and Sandi), those of you who make me remember to laugh (Peter & Illa) and those of you who are interested and care about my sanity (all the rest of you.)

Hey guys, I am planning an evening of prayer on Sunday night at 7PM. I am publishing my plan because I would like to invite anyone who would like to participate at that time to do so. I don't plan on anything complicated...just getting on my knees and coming before the throne of grace with my requests. And - here they are.

Strength and peace for Ben
Wisdom for his care providers
Strength, wisdom, peace for Ben's family
I am also requesting jobs and monetary provisions for the whole family group.

My next item on the list is for us as a family. That we will "keep our focus" as Bonnie has stated so well. I will pray specifically that we will seek insights on each others communication style, a desire to continue to bridge the gaps in our understanding and love for each other.

I also want to remember our nieces and nephews and their families. I think of Chardo and the support he will need to make his major transition next year. I think of Andrew and his wife and their jobs (which I would like to hear how that is coming along.) Kara and family is also my concern since she is so far away from family support and raising to very active boys on the verge of puberty! I feel faint just remembering what it is like to raise teenagers! And my heart remembers each one of the nieces and nephews in the family; they will be in my prayers individually.

Last but not least I will pray that Peter will put his Photoshop to its proper use -- take 50 lbs off my hips in that picture and erase some of those age lines. Then I could use that picture on some of my social websites!!!! OK - well, that is my joke for the day!

Please let me know if you would like to join me on Sunday night at 7PM. You can publish it here or send me an e-mail, whatever you are most comfortable with. Love you all very much - gotta get back to work - Gi

TROUBLES

lifes busy for all of us, sorry about my blog, sometimes my time on the computer is short, I do get on it to read, and yes, I can write better then what you see here, laugh!! Love to all, kid's you have a wonderful family. We need to remember, we are not the only ones feeling the pain on a member in our family. To Ben's children, please let's remember them also, we are all there for you. Love Aunty Lili and Uncele Jess, if you need us, please know just get our phone number's from your mom. Love

Lili

Peter, you have it all wrong, Pleasessssssssssssssssssssssssss, the horns, laugh. I could just see those popping all over the place,..Jim, we are a family of love and passion, do your stuff, ok. If any one your kid's were having trought, I would just see all us, as aunty, and uncles, we'd all have horns, laugh!!!!... We'er quite a group of love, how lucky it is to belong to this FAMILY........... LOVE YOU ALL.

Thurs. 9-4

Definitely cranky and grumpy. He only had a few bites for breakfast, lunch and dinner. He did drink almost a full 20 oz. jug of Gatorade. He wanted something other than the juice he was getting and wanted that so I gave it to him. Dr. came in at noon and Ben told him that he was drinking it and the Doc thought that was a good idea. So anyway hopefully they will let him have some as they do have it in the kitchen.

He also got two drains removed today. He is leaking all over the place and has to be changed 3 or 4 times a shift but at least it is coming out.

He got up and walked the 3 feet to the chair today. Very unsteady but at least up. He was up for about 20 minutes and that was all he could take. I noticed tonight that the nurse's are measuring his arm girth. I never saw them do that before. You can tell that he has lost all his muscle mass. His BP is going up again. I am hoping that it is only because of the pain and straining to move. He has been more alert today.

Not much else to report. He loves you all and says hi. So good nite to you all.

Love Ben and Illa

R U guys for real ?

You are all just too " good " for me !

Suzanne

Ben Wed. Nite 9-3

Ben had a pretty good day today. He was more alert. Lot of pain and kept forgetting to push his button. He did not get up to a chair again to day. Every time PT tried he gushed out of his drains. He at least sat of the edge of the bed for a bit. He was put on clear liquids late last night and full liquids today. He is drinking juice and having popcicles and tonight he had soup, ice cream, chocolate shake and cranberry juice. He only had a little of the ice cream and couldn't eat anything else. Even when I tried to feed him. At least it is a change in pace for him. I left early tonight to get some sleep.

I fell asleep there in the room in a very uncomfortable chair and woke up with my knees locked and couldn't stand up and when did hobbled around. So figured that I would go to bed early, and let us both get some rest.

I can tell he is a little better as he was cranky and grumpy today. He isn't so medicated which might have actually been better for him. He is fussing and figiting in the bed, moving around a lot trying to get comfortable and pulling on tubes again trying to figure where they go and what they do. I am afraid that he might pull out one that is necessary. At least he also won't get bed sores by rolling around.

So good night everyone and thank you kids again for coming down. I know that Father was glad to see you two. He asked this morning if you all got back safe last night. So he does remember some things. He did wake up once thinking we were in Klamath Falls for some reason.


Love to all. Ben and Illa

Lili

Jess is doing better, he does have trouble with weather change. He broke the fever last night. Tinkerbell, is taking good care of him as well as Woody, Lisi, old cat.

I love this family, and we do have our points and views, but, I know that I have loved to have Suzy to turn to, at times. I do not have other sister's here, and I do not love you all less. She, as I have been through a lot together, and we work our issues out, it is OK for her to get upset with me, for it's her feelings and right on issues. She did have a right to clear thanks with me as it was me, not anyone else, about what we shared and also I called on her. I needed to, and had the right to ask and she was kind in this matter. So, please know if I need to turn to her on issues, I will as I would for anyone of you, being there in the good and bad times, we all at times have in our personal times. This was personal to me. She, also had a right to butt in as I DID turn to her. I don't get upset like that, and if anyone would know, she would..... Also I had every right to turn to her, and would again, and she'd be there for me. With being out look, as she knows me the most of who I am, and my heart. Also she's been around when and heard what others say, towards me, at times. So, no anger please.

Jess and I love this family so much, and Jess and I know that Suzy, would be behind us in a heart beat, if we needed it. He's grateful Suzy was there for me, and he understands my upsetness, also he will not hold back from me, what is said to him. He loves me, and was glad Suzy was there for me. He also felt I should know, and does not feel that it's right to keep from me. As, he would say, I know,.... where he tells me or not, so why even try................. I will back Jess up, and will not let any issues he wishes to be not respected. Maybe, that is why our marriage is so strong, even when we were living on our own for the 15 years... we were in contact everyday. So, in a way we were never unmarried. We've been together through all the times, with friends and families, those in need as a wonderful team. The ups and downs, with respect to each member in their times of good and bad. When we have been dis-owned, or others dis-owned, in their times, for these family and friends. We have stood up for the needs, of others, in their personal issues, belief's and practice. We have steeped away to let others have a life they wished, but if thang's happened, we've been there with open arms and love. We've let others be mad at us, showing them the respect to let them be mad, but still there. Our door's are always open, Ben and his family, know that we are there for them, they know this, with all their hearts. They also know what it's like to be turned away, and loss. We are there for Ben's kids, as we are for each of my family member's and their families. So, if anyone turns to me, I and Jess are there. I do know how much this family does love each other, it is right to be open, and share what each of us feel, are doing, planning, the hurts and pain of life. That is the sin of this world, what a wonderful day, it will be when we are united in heaven, so, as we know, there is no sin. We know that it's past. The joy of love that God has given us, as he also allowed Satan, to live, so we could have sin removed, and why. I don't think I need to bring up the Bible, it's chapter and Word. We live it..... I deal with it out in the world and my work.

Don't let anyone say Jess will not see heaven, though he does not go to church, or make statements from the Bible. He is a wonderful man in love with God, like I am.

Thank you sis, and my love for all of my family. If anything, family are starting to talk, clearing issues, and connecting, though some times it can hurt, but it's also healing. We are a family,.... a very special family.... keep healing

Someone asked about how come the many years, we are a wonderful team, Jess is there at times, as in my work, in ministry, I talk, and those that turn to me, I hear them. With an open heart with the love God, gave me. Jess knows I will always be there for him. That is us, so everyone, welcome in my home anytime, OK!!!!! If you saw it right now, you'd understand, laugh!!!! Love Aunty Lili

PS:

Ben Tue night

Ben is resting easier tonight. The kids both made it for several hours until Ben told us to call it a night. He was getting tired but he talked a bit but mostly listened to us chatter while inspecting his eyelids. The Dr. moved him up to clear liquids tonight so now he can have his ice chips and popsicles. Which made him happy as soon as he got one.

He is still draining a lot but he looks like he feel better. He isn't pushing the pain button as much today. At least not while I was there. Today I spent about 4 hours on my medical things. Bunch of tests that were due that I had been putting off. So I got the appts. and got it done while here. I still need to pick up the order for my twice yearly thyroid blood test. I forgot about that and I may as well get that done now too.

Got to talk to Lici again tonight. She was able to talk to Ben for about 5 minutes. He started dozing off then and I woke him up and he said bye and gave me the phone. He was glad to talk to her. It is good that he gets to talk to all of you.

Well, you all get a good night's sleep. I am going to try. Love to all. And thanks for the funny story. I love stories that you can picture as you read it and it absolutely cracks you up. Heck of it is, a lot of the things have either happened to you or someone you know.

Good night.

Ben and Illa

PETER -- my 2 cents

you forgot this one that is also brought to you by the wisest man in history..
It is better to dwell in a corner of a housetop,
than in a house shared with a contentious woman.
Prov 25:24

dont blame me. I didnt say it.
Dick

Note to self: Wisdom for choosing a motel

A few lessons learned from traveling some this summer:


Next time we stay at a motel that we're unfamiliar with this is the procedure I'll follow. Scouts honor.

Even if it's 11:00 p.m. at night, I'll drive around the block instead of pulling in upon first seeing it. Maybe, I'll drive around the block twice if it's in the 'experienced' part of town.

I won't take for granted that the motel is the same as it was when I stayed there 25 years ago. Things change.

I will be aware if there are ANY tattoo parlors in the close proximity.

I will check to see if there are people leaning off the 2nd story balconies smoking, before going to the office.

I will ask to look at the room before signing on the dotted line. If there are ANY signs that there is something wrong about the room, chances are there probably are.

And last, as I'm driving around the block the 2nd time, I'll read all the signs and be on the lookout for any that say anything about monthly rates.

Jim

Wisdom for Life and Relationships

Dear Family; Here are some guidelines the entire world should follow,

From Jesus, the creator of the universe: Mt 7:12 "Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them"

This from Isaac Newton, arguably the most intelligent man who ever lived, "Tact is the knack of making a point without making an enemy." ; "We build too many walls and not enough bridges."

From Solomon the wisest person who ever lived: Pr 26:20 Where no wood is, [there] the fire goeth out: so where [there is] no talebearer, the strife ceaseth.

From Mahandas Gandhi: Freedom is not worth having if it does not connote freedom to err.

From George Washington, the greatest politician who ever lived:Take all admonitions thankfully in what time or place soever given, but afterwards, not being culpable, take a time & place convenient to let him know it that gave them.

Wherein you reprove another be unblameable yourself, for example is more prevalent than precepts.

This last one's for Dick, also from George Washington

AND -Kill no vermin as fleas, lice, ticks &c in the sight of others; if you see any filth or thick spittle, put your foot dexteriously upon it; if it be upon the clothes of your companions, put it off privately; and if it be upon your own clothes, return thanks to him who put it off.

Love Peter

A laugh for the Day

In light of Illa's quest for spirit lighteners (is that a word)I just have to share this with all of you...Teisha sent it to me and I think it is hilarious!!

I don't know if this story is true or not, but it sure is funny.



A guy who purchased his lovely wife a pocket Taser for their anniversary submitted this:

Last weekend I saw something at Larry's Pistol & Pawn Shop that sparked my interest. The occasion was our 15th anniversary and I was looking for a little something extra for my wife Julie. What I came across was a100,000-volt, pocket/purse-sized taser. The effects of the taser were supposed to be short lived, with no long-term adverse affect on your assailant, allowing her adequate time to retreat to safety....?? WAY TOO COOL!

Long story short, I bought the device and brought it home. I loaded two AAA batteries in the darn thing and pushed the button. Nothing! I was disappointed. I learned, however, that if I pushed the button AND pressed it against a metal surface at the same time; I'd get the blue arc of electricity darting back and forth between the prongs. AWESOME!!! Unfortunately, I have yet to explain to Julie what that burn spot is on the face of her microwave.

Okay, so I was home alone with this new toy, thinking to myself that it couldn't be all that bad with only two triple-A batteries, right? There I sat in my recliner, my cat Gracie looking on intently (trusting little soul) while I was reading the directions and thinking that I really needed to try this thing out on a flesh & blood moving target. I must admit I thought about zapping Gracie (for a fraction of a second) and thought better of it. She is such a sweet cat.

But, if I was going to give this thing to my wife to protect herself against a mugger, I did want some assurance that it would work as advertised. Am I wrong? So, there I sat in a pair of shorts and a tank top with my reading glasses perched delicately on the bridge of my nose, directions in one hand, and taser in another. The directions said that a one-second burst would shock and disorient your assailant; a two-second burst was supposed to cause muscle spasms and a major loss of bodily control; a three-second burst would purportedly make your assailant flop on the ground like a fish out of water. Any burst longer than three seconds would be wasting the batteries.

All the while I'm looking at this little device measuring about 5 inches long, less than 3/4 inch in diameter; pretty cute really and (loaded with two itsy, bitsy triple-A batteries) thinking to myself, 'no possible way!' What happened next is almost beyond description, but I'll do my best...?

I'm sitting there alone, Gracie looking on with her head cocked to one side as to say, 'don't do it,' reasoning that a one second burst from such a tiny little ole thing couldn't hurt all that bad. I decided to give myself a one second burst just for heck of it. I touched the prongs to my naked thigh, pushed the button, and. HOLYMOTHER OF GOD. . .WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION . . . WHAT THE HELL!!!

I'm pretty sure Hulk Hogan ran in through the side door, picked me up in the recliner, then body slammed us both on the carpet, over and over and over again. I vaguely recall waking up on my side in the fetal position, with tears in my eyes, body soaking wet, both nipples on fire, testicles nowhere to be found, with my left arm tucked under my body in the oddest position, and tingling in my legs?

The cat was making meowing sounds I had never heard before, clinging to a picture frame hanging above the fireplace, obviously in an attempt to a void getting slammed by my body flopping all over the living room. Note: If you ever feel compelled to 'mug' yourself with a taser, one note of caution: there is no such thing as a one second burst when you zap yourself!

You will not let go of that thing until it is dislodged from your hand by a violent thrashing about on the floor. A three second burst would be considered conservative? IT HURT LIKE HELL!!! A minute or so later (I can't be sure, as time was a relative thing at that point), I collected my wits (what little I had left), sat up and surveyed the landscape.

My bent reading glasses were on the mantel of the fireplace. The recliner was upside down and about 8 feet or so from where it originally was. My triceps, right thigh and both nipples were still twitching. My face felt like it had been shot up with Novocain, and my bottom lip weighed 88 lbs. I had no control over the drooling.

Apparently I pooped on myself, but was too numb to know for sure and my sense of smell was gone. I saw a faint smoke cloud above my head which I believe came from my hair.

P. S. My wife loved the gift, and now regularly threatens me with it

Rick

We are trying to catch up on all years we missed, but lets catch up on the good times not on the fighting.

Keep our focus

Why is it when the guys are on the blog it is always light hearted and fun, but when us women get on here, excluding our dear sister in laws, thing get negative and confrontational??? There has been so hurtful things said and some things said on the blog that should be dealt with on a more personal basis. No one has been told not to blog but I do think we should care about other peoples thinking and how we come across. Will it send the wrong message. if so then maybe we need to think out how it will be received. Some are more outspoken than others and maybe that is because the have unsettled issues in their lives. Jesus always showed love and compassion. He thought first of others before himself.

I grew up in a family that was always very critical of anyone that was different or thought different then them. There was so much jealousy and backbiting that it tore us apart and that was one reason I chose to move away. When I feel that happening in my true family, I want to back off because these are things that Satan tries to plant in families to turn them away from each other. Conquer and divide. and it can start out in very subtle small ways. I don't want this to happen to us after everything we have been through. so shape us girls, we need to pull together and love and support each other and especially Ben and Illa and their kids. Don't let Satan get in there at this time when we really need each other the most.

Ben Update

Ben got out of surgery ok at about 8:30. He was fairly awake and knew where he was. He was cheeky with the nurses so I would say he was feeling better. He was in and out but in better shape all around. He was hurting pretty bad but that is to be expected. I still haven't gotten too much from the Dr. other than it took more time than they expected. He said he figured 20 minutes tops. But he had to look for the new breach and clean everything out again. I still don't know if he took anymore of the colon out or tried to sew it up.

He still did not go looking for the tumor while they were in there so that means another surgery in 3 months or so. He said he doesn't know just where it is so he will wait on that one.

Ben is resting quietly tonight. I left him about 9 pm. The kids will be down to see him tomorrow. Teresa was going to come down tonight before we knew he was going in to surgery and then couldn't because the kids were acting up. I told her it was just as well and then about the surgery. She wanted to come down anyway but told her it would be best for her to just wait until tomorrow. As she would have to bring the kids tonight it would be hard on her to try to keep tabs on them and worry at the same time. She agreed so Adam will watch the kids tomorrow evening so that Teresa and BJ can come down. It will be good for all of them.

Well, I am going to bed now. So every one, will talk to you tomorrow after seeing how things go tonight. Love to you all. Ben and Illa

Time to pray..

Apparently, when Illa arrived back in Redding on Monday afternoon (today), Ben needed to go back into surgery. Something from the colonostomy surgery site was leaking sewage internally and he had to go back in. Illa has not received very much of the why or how this has happened. It sounded like she was concerned as the surgery was lasting longer than anticipated.

Illa requests that you hold your calls to her until after 9:00 tonight (Monday night) because she won't have any real information until Ben is in the recovery room.

He won't be in room 205 anymore, they've moved him to room 245--when he gets out of surgery.

At this point, Lisi called Redding and she knows what's going on, she called Lili and called us and she is phoning Peter, Bonnie and possibly Dick. Feel free to call us. If you have Illa's cell phone number, she can be text messaged and emailed. She can receive emails on that cell phone.
Jim and Sandi

Ben

I just got a call from Illa and she told me that ben is in Surgery again.
Seems that we was getting stools in his abdonuem (sp) so they are now trying to figure out why.
Be praying for both of them.

Dick