Tuesday, April 26, 2016

DANCE FOR JOY and AN UPDATE ON JOHN

Happy Tuesday!
Sounds like a movie, doesn't it?
Starring:  Sweet Cheeks and MyHero.

For those of you that don't read 
I am copying that message over here.
If you already read the post there 
please don't feel
you have to make a comment here, too.
I know that time is a precious commodity.

Here is the post:

Remember when you were a kid and the days just seemed to drag out forever?  Only in summer when you were on vacation from school did the days seem to fly past and summer ended long before you were ready to go back to school.

Time has marched very slowly for us these last few months.  Six bad days followed by one tolerable day---five bad days followed by two bearable days---finally a week or two with a "good" day. etc---and then fast forward.  Today John has had a few good days in a row followed by set-backs.  There are days when he still feels nauseous and there are days when he feels very weak.

He has taken a couple of falls due to weakness and dizziness.  The last one being a bad fall yesterday.  Today, he is using some pain killers again.  He had pretty much given those up-just taking nausea control pills and something for thrush mouth.  If you have not had thrush mouth, you do not want it---trust me on this.

A week from today he is going to attempt to go back to work.  I don't know if he is ready but he has to do it for his insurance and benefits.  He will have to see what he can tolerate and cross that bridge when he comes to it.  For today, and the rest of this week, he is laying low, recovering from his latest fall, and gearing up/praying for the strength to be an effective chaplain again.

The cards and well-wishes continue to be a blessing to John.  A friend of ours sent him a prayer shawl.  He wears it all the time which took me totally by surprise.  I think it is going to be like trying to wean a baby from a pacifier to get it away from him! Remember when your kid(s) wore the same thing day after day and you had to creep into their room at night and "steal" it so you could wash it--hoping they wouldn't miss it.  What was the first thing they did in the morning?  Start a frantic search for "my favorite outfit".  I can see a replay of that in my future here. Hmmmm...maybe he is in his 'second childhood'?

It has been cold, rainy and dreary here for most of the spring.  It is sometimes hard to remain happy and upbeat-especially when you feel sick.  However, there are little things that make John smile.  He got a big smile out of seeing our little SweetCheeks (Julia) in her dance costume as she prepares for an upcoming recital. (picture at the top).   She always makes him smile with her droll comments.  Never one to mince words she says things like "that's gross" or "YUCK" when John coughs/hacks/spits/etc.  It is not the words as much as it is the accompanying eye rolls and facial expressions that makes me laugh. If she is sitting on the sofa she moves as far away from him as she can with a close eye on his "sick things" so that she doesn't get too close to them.She is not even aware that she is doing it.  I have found that we take our laughs where we can find them these days.

I think the next post will be from John as he prepares to go back to work and then we will probably give our Caring Bridge posts a rest for a while until after John's PET scan in June---unless there are some major changes before that...(please Lord NO MORE of those).......

Blessings to all of you- thank you for praying for us so faithfully. You all are the best!!!!  Diana

I will be back in a couple of days
with a report on your prayers
for Ron Tomes & his family...
and I will attempt to play catch up
on some things that have happened
that have NOTING to do with cancer.
Thank you, Lord, that there
ARE THINGS
that have nothing to do with cancer.
It is so easy to let cancer dominate
your every waking moment,
as some of you know all too well.
It is good to be distracted 
with other things that are part
of 'real life'.

Have a wonderful, blessed Tuesday.


your photo name

65 comments:

Joy@aVintageGreen said...

Keeping John and all those who care for him in my Prayers.
Joy

Pam Kessler said...

Well you can't take a guy's blankie away from him now can you! Hoping next week goes smoothly.

Starting Over, Accepting Changes - Maybe said...

I am hoping so much that Jonn will be able to go back to work next week. I am assuming it will only be on a part-time basis.

Unknown said...

Thanks for the updates, Best wishes from the Schafer's!

Tete said...

He is fighting the fight of his life...and its hard. But the whole family is in this fight, and SC can always pull her weight. LOL- Is she getting boobies? I am not liking that at all.
Maybe he sees that shawl as God's arms around him all the time. The constant reminder that he is not alone.

Tete said...

AND thrush is terrible!

Lisa @ Texas Decor said...

That is so sweet that John wears his prayer shawl. I love that. I'm sure it brings comfort. I hope he'll feel well enough to go back to work. One day at a time, right? :) Love that costume on SweetCheeks! Those sleeves are perfect! Glad she brings smiles to your day! xoxo

Stephanie said...

Thank you for the updates, sweet Diana. The two of you remain in my prayers and on my heart. Much love to you!

Penny @ Penny's Vintage Home said...

I will pray that he can return to work......hugs...

Karen thisoldhouse2.com said...

May John have an uneventful re-entry into his workspace and a total recovery at the end of this long healing process. One day at a time, that's all anyone can do.

Jettie said...

Praying for all involved, including the care giver who has been a wonderful wife, even when she would like to slip out the back door at time.

Linda @ Itsy Bits And Pieces said...

So sorry to hear about the fall...I am sure all he has gone through has to affect balance. Hoping he will feel better before he goes back to work...sending prayers!
P.S. Sweet Cheeks is lovely!

Anonymous said...

I was getting so worried when we hadn't heard from you, thank goodness things are improving even if just my micro bits, its so hard not to let cancer take over your world when at this moment it is your world,, its a battle to be fought and thank goodness you are both strong warriors,,
sweet cheeks looks adorable and its good she keeps it real,,my heart truly breaks for that man of yours, this must be one of the hardest cancers to recover from,, why couldn't it be on his toe,, or why couldn't it not come AT ALL!!!! I keep you all in my prayers,,

Launna said...

Dear Diana, I am so sorry to hear of John falling... it sounds so awful... of course I'll keep him and your family in prayers. I know someone who had thrudh, they said it was incredibly painful... I hope that heels for him soon. .. cancer is nasty, I feel so bad for people dealing with it :-(

Beemie said...

Thoughts and prayers are for all of you. This struggle is indeed a long road to travel. Keep us posted!

Barbara said...

Life has truly been difficult for you and yours. I don't know how John will make it back to work and I pray for the strength he will need. I won't complain about how we are forced to do or not do because of insurance requirements. Life is about persevering through the difficult and the two of you have done a terrific job.

bj said...

I can't begin to know what you all have been going thru and how it makes you feel...I just know how brave and strong you both are...and without your faith, you just couldn't have done it. My goodness...what do people of no faith go thru when they hit the low places in life ? HE has carried me so many times....
I keep praying that this will all end soon and your Hero will have a complete recovery..I know it won't be overnight, but I feel like John will recover to the point of a normal life.
God bless you all....xoxo

JoAnne said...

I imagine you feel like you have been living in a fog, Diana. I truly hope that John (and you) continue to have more good days. God bless!

Susie said...

Diana, I am so glad to see a new photo of S.C. she is growing up. What a pretty girl. So glad to read of the good days that John has now and then and getting more of them. Still holding all of you in my daily prayers. You are right some days the cancer takes over every aspect of our lives. It's hard to breath right at times. Stay strong you beautiful blonde warrior. I know that you are the glue of your family. Blessings and hugs to all, love you, xoxo, Susie

Sissie's Shabby Cottage said...

Diana, I think of you and John often and I pray that God continues to give you both the strength you need to get through this. Yes, children aren't real understanding about adults being sick. I'm sure it's sad for her to see her Grandfather having such a tough time. And yes, cancer can consume your life and I agree that comic relief is always welcomed.
hugs to you Sweet Friend.

Sissie

Chatty Crone said...

I didn't receive the note from the Caring Bridge this time so I am glad your wrote it. I bet your granddaughter just cheers him up like nothing else. I hate he has to go back to work next week. I hope they will take it easy on him. I like the idea of a prayer shawl and I am not surprised at all - it is like having Jesus wrapped around you at all times - which is truly is. Prayers to continue. Sandie

coffeeontheporchwithme said...

I can just imagine the faces and expressions that "Sweet Cheeks" makes. She looks like an incredibly expressive girl! I am thinking of you, as John prepares to go back to work. I am not a religious person, but he seems like someone I would want to have listening to me, or giving me advise. I hope his falls are few and far between. I am always amazed at the strength that both of you have. You are two incredible people, seriously. I love how you handle the tough times with grace and humour. When my mom was in a bad way with dementia and other issues, my sister and I would crack joke after joke and I think other people might have found it a little disrespectful or sarcastic, but it got us through the bad times. (Not that you are being either one of those, but we just have a twisted sense of humour sometimes). Take care, Jenn

Nancy's Notes said...

Oh, Sweet Cheeks iss a doll! Making John chuckle is great medicine! I'm so sorry about his fall and thrush, those are tough. Praying for John and for you too!
Take care.
Blessings,
Nancccy

Gypsy Heart said...

Yes, you both remain in my prayers! I always wish I were closer so I could help out. I love that John wears the prayer shawl. I'm sure it brings him comfort in many ways. Hopefully, he can work fewer hours, especially in the beginning. Of course I'm not a Dr but is it possible for him to have B12 shots. My mother always had them. I wish I could too! :) Medicare won't pay for them though.

SC looks adorable, as usual! I'm sure the grands bring smiles and happiness to both of you. I do hope that you are taking care of yourself in all this! It's not easy but necessary my friend.

Much love,
Pat

NanaNor's said...

Diana, This is a hard journey for both of you; I had thrush last year when I had my surgery and I knew something was wrong with my mouth while still in the hospital-they said no that it was just the pain meds. Should have asked the doctor. When I got home I remembered my sister had had it when she was having chemo etc. I did an at home treatment, but it sure messes with your taste buds etc. After it was over I mentioned it to my dentist on my next visit and he said I should have called him-he has a treatment for it. I won't forget that horrid feeling. Praying for continued healing and strength for your man and also grace and peace for you and the family.
Sending love and prayers to you both!
Noreen

Shirley@Housepitality Designs said...

Keeping your Hero in my thoughts and prayers and you too!

Vee said...

That gal is growing up! (Not going to be in a medical career, I take it. =D )

Praying that the sunshine returns and that John has more good days in a row. I know that you are both concerned about next week, but The Lord is there ahead of you and He knows what is needed. Sending love...

Lorrie said...

Such a long and difficult road. I'm glad you have people like Sweet Cheeks along to provide lighter moments. Keeping you in prayer.

Merlesworld said...

It must be hard to laugh in you world at the moment, having young people around always helps.
Merle.........

Cheryl @ TFD said...

I am keeping John in my prayers and will also pray for the strength he needs to go back to work. I think Sweet Cheeks will want to go into nursing...or maybe not. :) She's a cutie!

camp and cottage living said...

I can easily understand how cancer has been dominating your lives these days, Diana!
I'm so happy that John is having more good days and that he is taking it easy before his return to work.
I'm praying he'll be able to handle his return to work and be gaining more strength each day.
Yes, Sweet cheeks would lift anyone's spirits I think!

Debbie - Mountain Mama said...

So sorry about John's fall and setbacks - it's so hard, two steps forward and one back. Some weeks three back. Hoping you both find relief soon - xoxo

Tina@WhatWeKeep said...

The man must have his woobie, he just must. Remember Mr. Mom with Michael Keaton trying to get his little boy to give up his woobie?
"I understand that you little guys start out with your woobies and you think they're great... and they are, they are terrific. But pretty soon, a woobie isn't enough. You're out on the street trying to score an electric blanket, or maybe a quilt. And the next thing you know, you're strung out on bedspreads Ken. That's serious."
That's how I am picturing John right now. ;)
xoxo, T.

Laurie said...

Sweet Cheeks is so pretty and I just have to wonder what's her internal dialogue in this picture. HaHa! She looks like she might be full of it. I would probably laugh out loud at her. Sorry to hear about John's fall. I hope and pray he does well, when he returns to work. God bless you all!

Carla from The River said...

Hello,
Sweet Cheeks :-))
Sending extra hugs. I know John will do this...I can feel it. He has that goal set in his mind. I admire him for it. XX OO XX OO
Carla

Ocean Breezes and Country Sneezes said...

I'm very sorry to hear about John's difficult times, I will keep him in my prayers. Thank goodness for children, they make our hearts smile!

Feral Turtle said...

God bless children. They can bring a smile at at the worst times! You both need all the smiles and laughs you can get right now. So glad you have such a wonderful bunch of grands that can do just that. Hugs always!

amazingsusan said...

You are MyHero <3

Grammy Goodwill said...

Praying for John as he faces going back to work. That seems so harsh, but if anyone can find a bright spot in that, I know it will be you.
Sweet Cheeks is really growing up.

Julie's Lifestyle said...

Sweet cheeks it just too cute. I am still praying for the two of you and hope John can manage with work.

Red Rose Alley said...

Oh, bless his heart for wearing that prayer shawl all the time. He is going through so much right now, and so are you, Diana. And then there is SweetCheeks who comes in and makes her grandpa smile, even it's just for a little while. I'm so sorry to hear he has thrush and that he took a bad fall. Still praying for him and you, my dear Diana.

love, ~Sheri

Rose L said...

I wish he did not have to go through such difficulties. I continue prayers.

FlowerLady Lorraine said...

I think prayer shawls are a wonderful gift of love, caring and faith.

Continued prayers for your hero and yourself.

Love & hugs ~ FlowerLady

vivian said...

I just know way to many people who are dealing with cancer right now.. it is depressing.. however with that said, I am amazed by the spirit to keep on keeping on that I see in everyone of them. and by the family members who care for them and hold everything together.. while fighting themselves to remain positive while dealing with fear and uncertainty of what the future holds. YOU are amazing Diana. A true treasure. your Hero and you have been in my prayers from the get go and I will continue to pray. I'll be praying that he is able to return to work and that he will feel good about it and grow stronger as a result. much love to you my friend!
xoxo
vivian

vivian said...

PS.. sweet cheeks as darling as always! ;)

Jemma@athomewithjemma said...

Both you and your sweet husband are pillars of strength, courage and faith. My heartfelt prayers continue.
xo
Jemma

Boopnut said...

Your granddaughters are such a bright light during dark times. So many suffering from cancer and other diseases. I am glad that John is on the mend, although it is a long road. I am glad he has a road to travel on!
Deb

Karen said...

That Sweet Cheeks certainly brings you and your husband a lot of joy. I will pray for him as he returns to work.
God gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength. Isaiah 40:29

Sylvia said...

Praying for good results on his PET Scan, Diana.

Cindy @ Dwellings-The Heart of Your Home said...

My mother had thrush mouth and I don't wish that on anyone. My heart goes out to you all...prayers.
Blessings,
Cindy

Down On The Farm said...

Prayers continue for you both. Continue to trust in our Lord and Savior. He never fails. Even on our darkest days He is still good and He works all things together for our God, even when we can't see it. I can only imagine how hard this is . . . . blessings to you BOTH!!!

A Joyful Cottage said...

A beautifully written update, Diana. I think of John and you so often, and lift up a prayer every time I do. Many gentle hugs and love ~ Nancy

Judy at GoldCountryCottage said...

Diana, I didn't see the CaringBridge post this week so was glad that I saw yours. I'm so sorry that John had a fall. Hopefully he will continue to have more of those 'in=-between' days than not. I can imagine how depressing the weather has been for you. The sun always makes things seem a little bit better. Those days will come. SweetCheeks is certainly turning into a young woman and I can see where she would brighten your days. Praying that John will be able to return to work with no problems. A person needs things like that to continue on this journey. Take care my dear friend..xxo Judy

Anonymous said...

Oh, Diana, prayers still coming your way. I'm so sorry to hear that John fell. As bad as I hated to take pain meds, sometimes you just have to. I hope they will help him and I pray he'll feel well enough to go back to work. SweetCheeks seems to take after her grandma a little, don't you think? :)
Blessings,
Shelia ;)

a writing place said...

Many gentle hugs....

Kim said...

Sending big hugs and glad that you have big smiles over there, courtesy of the kids. They bring comic relief to stressful situations don't they? I am praying that John is able to return to work and both of you can start thinking about some happy things...and you get some sun! ox

Ricki Treleaven said...

I'm praying for many good days ahead without nausea and dizziness. Sweet Cheeks posts always puts a smile on my face.

xo,
RJ

joanne said...

unfortunately I am joining the 'c' club, was just diagnosed with kidney 'ca' in both kidneys. It sounds as if the next few weeks will be tough ones. I am already having daily,hourly panic attacks at the thought. Need prayers for guidance and sending prayers for you and yours as recovery takes another step forward. God bless.

Anonymous said...

More prayers for John and your family. May God bless his efforts to return to work.

Holding you as you say Good Bye for now to Ron.

Love,
Lily

Anonymous said...

One day at a time dear Lord. Your granddaughter is simply beautiful!

Love Caroann

mj in indiana said...

Diana, can you get cobra ins thru his current health ins???? Its very expensive.... I currently pay 644.00 per month for just me, but if he isn't ready to return to work, this can allow him to stay home and recover !

Have a Daily Cup of Mrs. Olson said...

Time flies by so fast until you are going through something terrible like this. So sorry Diana! I pray that John is having more good days than bad and that he will be able to handle work. I laughed about giving up the prayer shawl. My older sis tells a story of me in grade school one sweater constantly that had a braided collar with a long braid that hung down. She got so sick of seeing me in it that one day she grabbed the scissors and cut that braid off. lol! Can't believe I don't remember her doing that. I would have thought devastating event would stick out vividly in my mind. I say let him wear that shawl from now until eternity!
hugs,
Jann

Renee said...

She is a beautiful young lady. I hope he will have more and more good days. Hope work goes well. Your family is in my prayers.

Suzanne said...

Prayers for you, Diana, and for all your loved ones, too. You're right, cancer does take over everything. I hope as the caretaker you can manage to squeeze in some TLC for yourself. xoxo

Marilyn @ MountainTopSpice said...

Bless your heart Diana, it is such a struggle when you take two steps forward and one step backward. I'm sure the dreary weather sure wasn't helping. Is it getting any nicer there now? I do hope so. I hope John has recovered from his fall, oh I feel so bad for him, and that thrush mouth is a terrible thing to deal with. So glad that you are able to find joy and laughter wherever and however you can, it really is the best medicine! Much love to you and John today!