Someone has finally found interest in potty training. After promising that he would go if we bought him a frog potty chair, he actually told me he had to go and just used it!! Woohoo!!!
I honestly never thought this day would come...it has made for a very happy mama! :)
(And of course sad, too...my babies aren't babies anymore!) :(
Hope you all are enjoying this beautiful weather. We visited Grandma V this morning--she's hanging in there so keep praying! This afternoon we have been outside playing. The rest of the family is in Oklahoma on an adventure to celebrate Poppy's birthday, which is tomorrow. I love weekends that aren't tied up by such a tight schedule!
Anyhow, that's about it for now. I'll post pictures tomorrow.
Give a shout out to our big boy, Gabriel!
Sarah
1.29.2011
1.27.2011
Thankful Thursday
First things first...thank you SO SO SO MUCH to all of you who have written cards and sent flowers to Grandma Victory. Your thoughts and prayers mean the world to her and to our family. For those of you waiting on a phone number to call her...please consider sending a card instead. She only gets a phone if we pay for her to have a private line; since we aren't sure at this time how long she will be staying, we won't be getting her a phone line at this time.
Wow. My eyes have been opened to a whole new world this week. And so on this beautiful Thursday, I would like to take the time to express my gratitude for carehomes. At least in our family, it has been a dreaded word...we've never, ever wanted to see one of our loved ones in a carehome. But when that is the absolute best choice that you're given, that's what you fall on. And, that's exactly where we are.
I have already learned so much in 4 days. I've learned that it takes a very special person to work with elderly people--and they are truly angels. I've learned that there is no bond greater than a couple that has grown old together. I've learned that nursing home residents take care of one another....I've seen them laugh at each other, encourage each other, and console each other...even when one is totally out of his mind and the other is totally unable to move. It's just like one, big, huge family, and they're all headed for the exact same place. I've learned that when faced in a difficult situation, that I can be strong and do whatever needs to be done for someone I love. I've learned that I really enjoy speaking to elderly strangers who are craving a simple hello.
I am so thankful for the lessons that I continue to learn on this journey of life. I'm thankful for my grandma, and I am so very thankful for Lakepoint Nursing Center.
What are you thankful for, today???
~Sarah
Wow. My eyes have been opened to a whole new world this week. And so on this beautiful Thursday, I would like to take the time to express my gratitude for carehomes. At least in our family, it has been a dreaded word...we've never, ever wanted to see one of our loved ones in a carehome. But when that is the absolute best choice that you're given, that's what you fall on. And, that's exactly where we are.
I have already learned so much in 4 days. I've learned that it takes a very special person to work with elderly people--and they are truly angels. I've learned that there is no bond greater than a couple that has grown old together. I've learned that nursing home residents take care of one another....I've seen them laugh at each other, encourage each other, and console each other...even when one is totally out of his mind and the other is totally unable to move. It's just like one, big, huge family, and they're all headed for the exact same place. I've learned that when faced in a difficult situation, that I can be strong and do whatever needs to be done for someone I love. I've learned that I really enjoy speaking to elderly strangers who are craving a simple hello.
I am so thankful for the lessons that I continue to learn on this journey of life. I'm thankful for my grandma, and I am so very thankful for Lakepoint Nursing Center.
What are you thankful for, today???
~Sarah
1.26.2011
Maya's Preschool Party
Maya celebrated her birthday at preschool on January 6 with yummy Rice Krispy treats. :)
1.24.2011
This Really Sucks.
I've always hated that phrase. I've always hated that word. I remember going to a New Kids on the Block concert in 3rd grade and seeing a t-shirt that said, "Drugs Suck." I asked my mom what it meant, and she said, "It's just a nasty word." And that's all it's ever been to me. I hate it. And, it will be one of those crazy phrases that my kids won't be allowed to use, either.
Now, that being said, I have no other way to put into words the update on Grandma Victory. It just sucks. That's my best vernacular for now. So here's the latest scoop, and I'm sorry I haven't updated more regularly, for those of you trying to keep tabs on her.
She has been in Galicia Heart Hospital since last week. After and X-ray and CT scan, we learned that her pain is being caused from a disintegrated disc, which is causing 2 vertebrae to grind together. A doctor at Galicia mentioned yesterday that there may be a possibility of her being able to receive an epidural once a week to relieve her from the pain and discomfort. But, other than that, she will just have to rely on Percocet 10 (for now). The other thing we learned is that she has an aneurysm in her stomach. Nothing has been said to address this issue; no treatment options (other than physical therapy to gain some strength back), no possible scenarios, no glimpses of hope, no nothing. So basically we've been in the world of wondering why nothing has been done. Then, we found out today that the epidural option cannot be offered because if there was an accidental misplacement of the needle, it could burst the aneurysm in her stomach, which would be deadly.
The hospital had done everything that could be done on their end (which we weren't happy with anyway), so they shipped her out to a nursing home for rehab. When my dad and I visited her tonight, it killed us. So sad. I don't even have it in me to describe to you what it was like. I can only say this is the first time in a loooong while that pure sadness invaded my heart.
So I'm going to end with this: please remember to lift her up in prayer. She has no appetite. She has no strength. She is having some confusion...maybe from the pain meds, maybe from all the chaos...maybe from a 90-year-old brain. Her pain was bringing her to tears tonight...and my dad...and me. Pray for comfort. Pray for appetite. Pray for strength. Pray for mobility. Pray for a strong mentality. Pray for a miracle. I want you to ask for and BELIEVE in a miracle. She--and the kids and grandkids--are going through a MAJOR life transition right now, and this is definitely one of the most difficult things I've ever had to sit back and watch happen. I'm so scared people will just forget her. And, I will fight with everything I have for that not to happen. This is a feeling of hopelessness beyond anything I have ever felt. If we've ever needed you--our family & our friends--the time is now. If you are interested in sending her a card, PLEASE do so. She needs all the encouragement she can get to get back up on her feet again. Her address is:
Dorothy Victory
Lakepoint Nursing Center
1315 N West St, #904
Wichita, KS 67203
I'm sure she would love to get a phone call from any of you. However, I didn't see a telephone in her room. I will check things out and post a number to contact her once I have the info.
Love,
Sarah
Now, that being said, I have no other way to put into words the update on Grandma Victory. It just sucks. That's my best vernacular for now. So here's the latest scoop, and I'm sorry I haven't updated more regularly, for those of you trying to keep tabs on her.
She has been in Galicia Heart Hospital since last week. After and X-ray and CT scan, we learned that her pain is being caused from a disintegrated disc, which is causing 2 vertebrae to grind together. A doctor at Galicia mentioned yesterday that there may be a possibility of her being able to receive an epidural once a week to relieve her from the pain and discomfort. But, other than that, she will just have to rely on Percocet 10 (for now). The other thing we learned is that she has an aneurysm in her stomach. Nothing has been said to address this issue; no treatment options (other than physical therapy to gain some strength back), no possible scenarios, no glimpses of hope, no nothing. So basically we've been in the world of wondering why nothing has been done. Then, we found out today that the epidural option cannot be offered because if there was an accidental misplacement of the needle, it could burst the aneurysm in her stomach, which would be deadly.
The hospital had done everything that could be done on their end (which we weren't happy with anyway), so they shipped her out to a nursing home for rehab. When my dad and I visited her tonight, it killed us. So sad. I don't even have it in me to describe to you what it was like. I can only say this is the first time in a loooong while that pure sadness invaded my heart.
So I'm going to end with this: please remember to lift her up in prayer. She has no appetite. She has no strength. She is having some confusion...maybe from the pain meds, maybe from all the chaos...maybe from a 90-year-old brain. Her pain was bringing her to tears tonight...and my dad...and me. Pray for comfort. Pray for appetite. Pray for strength. Pray for mobility. Pray for a strong mentality. Pray for a miracle. I want you to ask for and BELIEVE in a miracle. She--and the kids and grandkids--are going through a MAJOR life transition right now, and this is definitely one of the most difficult things I've ever had to sit back and watch happen. I'm so scared people will just forget her. And, I will fight with everything I have for that not to happen. This is a feeling of hopelessness beyond anything I have ever felt. If we've ever needed you--our family & our friends--the time is now. If you are interested in sending her a card, PLEASE do so. She needs all the encouragement she can get to get back up on her feet again. Her address is:
Dorothy Victory
Lakepoint Nursing Center
1315 N West St, #904
Wichita, KS 67203
I'm sure she would love to get a phone call from any of you. However, I didn't see a telephone in her room. I will check things out and post a number to contact her once I have the info.
Love,
Sarah
1.16.2011
Sunday Sermon--Talent...You'veGot It, Baby!
What's your God-given talent? Speaking? Teaching? Encouraging? Listening? Maybe carpentry...or auto mechanics...hospitality...playing a musical instrument...or caring for the elderly? I hope and pray that you've discovered your talent, and you're using it in the way in which God intended it to be used. Not sure? Pray about it. And, I'll pray about it, too. :)
Update on GGV: no progress, in fact her legs seem to be giving her more trouble. But right now, we're focusing on positives. She can move well from her waist up. She's eating well. She's thinking clearly when her meds don't have her too groggy. Her BP and sugar levels are good. She's argumentative and as stubborn as ever. She's silly and laughing...and asked for the "funnies" when we tucked her into bed, tonight. And, her heart & soul are right where they need to be. We were talking about her favorite Bible verses tonight, and we discovered (after looking up a few wrong scriptures) that her MOST favorite scripture is Matthew 21:22. And, her life is a living testimony of that. Please continue to pray for her, for comfort, strength, and peace in the coming weeks. Also pray for the family, as everyone is adjusting to the new "normal", as well as schedule shifts, etc. to ensure that she's well taken care of.
xoxoxo,
Sarah
Update on GGV: no progress, in fact her legs seem to be giving her more trouble. But right now, we're focusing on positives. She can move well from her waist up. She's eating well. She's thinking clearly when her meds don't have her too groggy. Her BP and sugar levels are good. She's argumentative and as stubborn as ever. She's silly and laughing...and asked for the "funnies" when we tucked her into bed, tonight. And, her heart & soul are right where they need to be. We were talking about her favorite Bible verses tonight, and we discovered (after looking up a few wrong scriptures) that her MOST favorite scripture is Matthew 21:22. And, her life is a living testimony of that. Please continue to pray for her, for comfort, strength, and peace in the coming weeks. Also pray for the family, as everyone is adjusting to the new "normal", as well as schedule shifts, etc. to ensure that she's well taken care of.
xoxoxo,
Sarah
1.13.2011
P.U.S.H. for GGV
Hey, God. Just have to pour my heart out for a minute. I'm broken. I'm sad. I'm hurt. I don't understand at this point in time why she has to go thru the pain, but I'm trusting You to watch over her and give her peace in this storm. God, I don't know the right words to say or the right actions to take, so I'm asking for Your direction. In the midst of all the confusion and disorganization, lead me...or lead someone else...to move in the right direction to get the services and assistance that will best meet her needs. I love her so much, and it really tore me up tonight to see her hurt. But, I know that You love her even more, and she is surrounded right now by Your angels. Thank You for giving me so many wonderful years to be with her; thank You for keeping her active all this time, for allowing my babies to grow up knowing her and allowing her to be a part of their lives. Be with her all thru the night. When those aches and pains come, gently remind her that You took sickness and disease to the cross. That pain was crucified with You, and in Your name, we claim all authority and victory over any pain or ache that has her bound. I am so thankful that for 90 years you have pulled her through the storms of life, and I am so thankful that we can be assured you will bring her through this, too. May we all be ever so close to You in the days ahead, may we drench ourselves in Your word, as it is health to our flesh and strength to our bones. I love You, talk to You in a few.
1.04.2011
PJ Party!
Maya was so excited about her jammie day at preschool! She wore her new, princess jammies that she was given for her birthday from her aunts.
Today was just a normal day at work. Came home, had supper at Mom's, then walked home. Nana & Papa came down to see our new furniture set and arrangement (thanks, Uncle Eddie & Aunt Rosie!). Then the kids had some fun with their new soaps for bathtime! Now we're settling in, watching Shrek...for the 3,482nd time. :)
Having fun in 2011,
Sarah
Today was just a normal day at work. Came home, had supper at Mom's, then walked home. Nana & Papa came down to see our new furniture set and arrangement (thanks, Uncle Eddie & Aunt Rosie!). Then the kids had some fun with their new soaps for bathtime! Now we're settling in, watching Shrek...for the 3,482nd time. :)
Having fun in 2011,
Sarah
1.02.2011
Sunday Sermon
Got up this morning for church. Barely. :) I was super tired, but I'm SO glad the monkeys are feeling better. So after many, many attempts, I finally got everyone out from under the covers and into their church clothes.
Very few people wearing many different hats is guaranteed to lead to several things, one of which is...burn out. I guess I could confess that's actually where I am right now, and various circumstances going on in the church are definitely not helping.
So anyway, Mr. Shaffer gave a good sermon this morning on leaving the past in the past. A pretty smooth idea for the start of a fresh year. I'll definitely work on doing just that.
After church we headed to Mom & Dad's for Sunday dinner. Yummy as usual. I saw Sam off to work, did the dishes, then dozed off on the loveseat until it was time to go back to church. Good thing 5 of us showed up to take down the Christmas decorations. :) Didn't take long, so we were back to mom's by 6:30. Ate some leftover tacos, watched the kids wrestle around with Nana & Papa, and now we're home, sweet home! *sigh* Did I mention I'm glad the kids are better? :)
Another great day checked off for 2011.
Hey, God. Thank you for being with me today. Thanks for taking my weakness and pushing me on with Your strength and for loving me even when I find it difficult to just calm down and worship You. Please send some reviving waves this direction...in whatever way You see fit. Amen.
Sarah
PS--Happy 10th Birthday, sweet girls! :)
Very few people wearing many different hats is guaranteed to lead to several things, one of which is...burn out. I guess I could confess that's actually where I am right now, and various circumstances going on in the church are definitely not helping.
So anyway, Mr. Shaffer gave a good sermon this morning on leaving the past in the past. A pretty smooth idea for the start of a fresh year. I'll definitely work on doing just that.
After church we headed to Mom & Dad's for Sunday dinner. Yummy as usual. I saw Sam off to work, did the dishes, then dozed off on the loveseat until it was time to go back to church. Good thing 5 of us showed up to take down the Christmas decorations. :) Didn't take long, so we were back to mom's by 6:30. Ate some leftover tacos, watched the kids wrestle around with Nana & Papa, and now we're home, sweet home! *sigh* Did I mention I'm glad the kids are better? :)
Another great day checked off for 2011.
Hey, God. Thank you for being with me today. Thanks for taking my weakness and pushing me on with Your strength and for loving me even when I find it difficult to just calm down and worship You. Please send some reviving waves this direction...in whatever way You see fit. Amen.
Sarah
PS--Happy 10th Birthday, sweet girls! :)
1.01.2011
Day 1, 2011
Stayed up with Sam & kids til 12:30-ish. Woke up around 10. Walked down to Nana & Papa's, came home & Sam made spaghetti. Gus & I took a nap on the couch after Sam left for work, while Maya watched a movie.
We enjoyed tacos for supper @ Steph's house, then went to visit GG, Poppy, Lou, Sis, & Amy. Now we're settled in for the night, enjoying the Princess & the Frog! :)
Loving my babies tonight (and so happy the flu is gone),
Sarah
We enjoyed tacos for supper @ Steph's house, then went to visit GG, Poppy, Lou, Sis, & Amy. Now we're settled in for the night, enjoying the Princess & the Frog! :)
Loving my babies tonight (and so happy the flu is gone),
Sarah
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