tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9719016035099126372024-03-14T07:50:55.886-04:00"A Cheerful Heart Is Good Medicine"Proverbs 17:22Jennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594401190299002611noreply@blogger.comBlogger182125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-971901603509912637.post-16958596607302210872013-10-08T14:54:00.000-04:002013-10-08T14:54:20.325-04:00Guest Post from Joe<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Dear
Patra and family: </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">I write with mixed emotions of sadness and also
privilege. Sadness at the occasion of the passing of my Christian
brother, a good and decent man who was a trustworthy servant of his God
and a compliment to his culture. However, also privileged to tell of my
friend and recount the influence of his daily walk through this life
with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">The words integrity and
consistency perhaps best describe the Bob Bugg I was blessed to know and
work with for many years. He walked humble but tall in a fallen world
which often creates and promotes smaller men; men who worship at the
altars of pride, arrogance, ignorance and self- adulation,
while choosing to serve much smaller gods than the one Bob knew
personally. The impact Bob had on his world was subtle, but truly
profound. Husband, father, grandfather, attorney, teacher of the law and
the Bible, friend; he pursued all these relationships and
responsibilities with a fervor, class and demeanor that can only come
from a man who daily walks, as best he can as a flawed human, with the
Creator. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">It is said that you teach what you know but you reproduce what
you are... what you live. Our brother was classic evidence of this and
it shows in the legacy he has left in his family. Jesus said "I am the
way, the truth and the life, no one comes to the Father except through
me." Bob never compromised this testimony, even in a culture that sadly
pursues watered-down social religion in the shrouded names of tolerance,
inclusion and a quest not to be offensive, even at the expense of
truth. May we all live our lives safe in a relationship with our Savior
so that we, like Bob, can someday hear Jesus welcome us into His eternal
presence. Bob would like that. May the peace that passes
all understanding be with you and your family during this chapter of
your earthly walk. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">I was visiting with Bob a month or so before he went home to be with
His Lord. As I was getting ready to leave, Bob, who was somewhat labored
in his breathing after us joking around, motioned me closer. He said he
had something he needed to ask me. I walked over to him ready for some
profound, deep question. As I leaned down, Bob said " Joe, I need to
know what you think about something". Drawing closer, I waited for his
question. He then looked at me with that serious, now drawn face of a
standout trial lawyer and said " I've been thinking about entering a
body building contest.....what do you think?" After looking at him
dumbfounded for a second or two, we both cracked up. Here I was with a
good friend, probably in his last days, yucking it up. I didn't know
whether to laugh or cry. As always, my buddy was concerned about
making me comfortable in this very uncomfortable situation.
There.....you have the essence of the man...................I miss my
friend. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">A couple of days ago I listened to a voice message I have saved
that he left me while at Mayo Clinic, awaiting his return home. It was
good to hear his voice. Along with his family, I expect to hear it again
when we all reach our eternal home, redeemed for us by the
cross.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Joe Park</span></span>
<br />
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Jennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594401190299002611noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-971901603509912637.post-64206621521780971172013-09-13T07:31:00.001-04:002013-09-13T07:31:48.143-04:00Guest Post from Chobee<span style="font-size: small;">September 13, 2013</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><i>(Chobee is a lifelong friend of Bob's who was in Africa at the time of Bob's passing. He sent the following letter to be read at the Memorial Service.)</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: small;">Today, my friend, Bob is sitting at our Lord's feet soaking in the
answers to all the questions his rich mind sought out his whole life. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">As boys, Bob and <span class="il">Thom</span>
helped lead me to my salvation. How do you find the words to thank any
person for that gift? But that was just the beginning, from 12 years
on, Bob influenced my life as much as any man could. He did this by
living his life as close to the example of our Savior as any man I have
ever known or will know.<br /><br /> Bob Bugg walked through his Earthly
life with a quiet wisdom and strength. He has a humility that makes a
person feel Immediately at ease in his presence. He has the greatest
gift for communicating of any person I have ever encountered. Striving
to emulate his talents opened the doors for my own future.
Consequently, I followed Bob to college and then law school. <br /><br />While
I started climbing a shaky ladder to build a world focused upon what I
could gain from lesser treasures, Bob was growing in his reputation as a
lawyer while at the same time never placing his professional goals
above things that were far more important and not locked away in banks.<br /><br />Bob
has that elusive and precious gift of living a balanced life. Other
than his love for God, nothing , simply nothing, is more important to
Bob than his love for Patra, and for Jenny, Emily and Adam, and now
their grand children and spouses.<br /><br />Ever by his side, Patra has
been an amazing wife. She possesses the most positive attitude wrapped
in a cheerful spirit of any person you will ever meet. <br /><br />Bob
constantly told me how he could not have faced any of his long battle
without her emotional and physical strength which he depended on every
day. In these last few months you would notice that Bob instantly knew
when she left his side as he turned and asked, "where is Patra?." She
had only been gone a second. She is truly the Godly woman that inspires
everyone around her. Together, they raised remarkable children that
carry the immense gifts of both parents. They too, stood by their Dad
always laughing and supporting him. <br /><br />When we walked through the
years that passed so quickly, Bob was building a successful Life focused
upon God and his family. His wealth was being stored in heaven as we
were taught to do in the songs we sang together in our youth. Long
before there were any WWJD bracelets when I would face a temptation or
crossroad in life, I would quietly ask myself, "what would Bob do?". I
knew his choice would be the Godly one and I tried to follow that course
as much as possible. But, as I said to Adam, he set the bar at a level
that the rest of us could not quite reach. <br /><br />I hold fast to the
truth that Bob is alive this very second. That is why I do not speak in
the past tense. We have lost his terrestrial presence but we have not
lost his deeper eternal presence. <br /><br />Each of that knows Bob takes
with us a part of him as we walk through the remaining days of our own
lives on earth. For some, it will be his wisdom and wit, locked in a
memory of his smile or in the warmth of his eyes. For others, it will be
a memory of a kind service he performed or a kid he coached playing
ball. But all of us share a common knowledge of what he held out with
open arms and shared with all of is ...that unmeasurable wealth he
gave from loving others more than himself. Look at any picture with his
grandchildren and look at the sparkle in his eyes. The truth lies there.
He gave that to all of us.<br /><br />I can share this one example ...<br />God
blessed me with allowing me to talk to Bob on a static filled call from
Africa - he knew his earthly journey was ending- I wanted
to talk to him about how he was doing and to express my love for him
and he would have none of that. He told Pat not to call me in that my
trip might be spoiled. But then in the brief moments of the phone call
his heart was turned towards his friend and he said to me, "bag a big
one, Chobee." Even in his last moments he put the other person first. <br /><br />My
favorite movie of all time is "It's a wonderful life". All of you know
the film about man who gave up the big dreams he had for himself as he
gave his life to his family and friends . As I sit here 7000 miles away
from this celebration of the life of my friend of 50 years I have a lump
in my throat and tears in my eyes, just as I have every time I see the
ending of that wonderful old film. So as the film ends, I close with
the same words that were shared by Harry Bailey the war hero who had
come home to honor his brother, George Bailey , when he lifted his
glass and made a toast :<br />From so far away on a beautiful morning on the other side of the world I want to make the same toast:<br />" To my dearest friend, Bob Bugg, the richest man I know."</span>Jennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594401190299002611noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-971901603509912637.post-77732847471204513182013-08-28T07:37:00.001-04:002013-08-28T07:37:41.815-04:00To the Moon and Back<h2>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"></span></h2>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">from Patra<br /><br />A
few days before Bob's memorial service at our church, our immediate
family gathered in the cemetery for Bob's private burial. I wanted it
to be a special time for the young grandchildren. They played with
pinwheels, released heart shaped helium balloons, put simple flowers,
letters and art work they'd made for him on his coffin. We shared a few
favorite memories and sang "Jesus loves me". Sharon, my daughter-in-law
shared that she loved how every time she'd come after work to pick up
her kids
(aged 2 and 3), Bob's last words to them would be, "I love you to the
moon and back."</span></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Your
cards and notes began to arrive. There was so much food, I could have
fed all of you. The fellowship of Christ held me
together with kindness, love, and prayers. I witnessed firsthand what
the early church must have been like. Followers of Jesus gathered in
homes, worshiping together and taking care of each others needs. You met my
every need including repairing my broken air conditioner. You made me
want to be like that... to give back, to give more! Thank you.<br />
</span></span><div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I was dreading the memorial service and even begged a
friend to come kidnap me so I wouldn't have to attend. I didn't know
how I was going to survive such a day. I did survive, and the
supernatural peace that can only come from God filled my heart with more
love and compassion than I've ever felt in my life. <br /><br />In the weeks to
come, I've asked those who spoke at Bob's service to write our blog. </span></span>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />At nap time today, I was resting with
my 3 year old granddaughter Avery. I thought she was asleep, but with
her wee little voice she said:<br /></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"Grandma, will Grandpa come back when Jesus fixes his voice?<br />
Me - "mmmm, why does Jesus need to fix Grandpa's voice ?"<br />Avery - "You said you missed Grandpa's voice!"<br />Me - Ohhhh, sigh...<br /> "Grandpa's voice is OK, it's just that I can't hear him anymore"<br />
Avery - "I can... Grandpa talks to me"<br />Me - (l o n g s i l e n c e)<br />Me - (tight throat)... I whisper..."What does Grandpa say?"<br />Avery - "ohhhhh, I dunno... lots of stuff"<br /><br />
<br />I bet he's telling her he loves her <br />To The Moon and Back</span></span>Jennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594401190299002611noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-971901603509912637.post-88214520429413655922013-08-12T23:26:00.000-04:002013-08-12T23:26:17.583-04:00HomeIt is with great sadness for our loss, yet great hope in his Eternal Home that we announce our dad, Bob Bugg, passed away on Friday, August 9, 2013.<br />
<br />
In the coming days and weeks there will be more time for (and great healing in) writing a more formal epilogue of his last few days with us. For now, though, we thought it would be good to update the blog.<br />
<br />
Although he has had several health setbacks since November of 2012, my dad's health went downhill very quickly this past week. <br />
<br />
He spent his final days in a wonderful hospice facility. Those days were peaceful, relatively comfortable days. His room was filled with family and friends. Conversations abounded with memorable stories and heartfelt thank-you's to a man we were all better for knowing.<br />
<br />
A memorial service will be held in his honor at 10am Saturday, August 17th at Starkey Road Baptist Church.<br />
<br />
Thank you all for loving us well through this journey.<br />
<br />
Jenny (on behalf of Patra, Emily, Adam, our spouses, and the grandkids)<br />
<br />
<br />Jennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594401190299002611noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-971901603509912637.post-57757640557485583972012-08-01T02:00:00.000-04:002012-08-01T07:49:09.912-04:00The Lord is My ShepherdAugust 1, 2012<br />
The Lord is My Shepherd<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Psalm 23:1-6 (NASB) </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>The LORD is my shepherd,
I shall not want. </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>He makes me lie down in green pastures; </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>He leads me beside quiet waters. </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>He restores my soul; </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>He guides me in the paths of righteousness
For His name's sake. </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I fear no evil, for You are with me; </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>You have anointed my head with oil; </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>My cup overflows.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Surely goodness and lovingkindness will follow me all the days of my life, </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>And I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever. </i></div>
<br />
After thinking and praying about it, I believe it is time to suspend regularly scheduled blog posts. I would never have imagined at the beginning of this journey that this blog would come to mean so much to me. I am most grateful that through the blog I have been able to keep in contact with so many of you.<br />
When is the right time to stop writing? I don't know. However, it will soon be one year since I was last hospitalized. At the moment, my condition has definitely stabilized.<br />
I appreciate so much those of you who have kept up with us and have prayed for us so faithfully. Your prayers have meant so much.<br />
The journey has not always been pleasant, it has not always been easy. <i>Amyloidosis </i>truly is a <i>"nasty little disease."</i> God has always been faithful! My own faith has been strengthened.<br />
We have many friends walking through <i>"tall weeds." </i>Hopefully this blog has been an encouragement to some of those people.<br />
This will not be my last blog post. If nothing else, I will keep you updated on the grandchildren with pictures. If anything significant changes (good or bad) I will let you know.<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="480" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/gf1wJfLV-uU?rel=0" width="640"></iframe>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i><br />
<i>Dear God: Thank You for Your faithfulness. Your mercies are new every morning. Thank You for friends who have prayed for my family and have supported us. In Jesus' name. Amen. </i></div>
<br />
Until the "next time." God willing.<br />
BobJennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594401190299002611noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-971901603509912637.post-88997330441109432592012-07-01T02:00:00.000-04:002012-07-01T02:00:02.504-04:00A Wonderful JuneSunday, July 1, 2012<br />
A Wonderful June<br />
<br />
From Bob<br />
<br />
June was a very good month.
While I had a couple of episodes where I became lightheaded, I never
passed out. Not one time! That is a new personal record for me - an
entire month with no syncopal episodes. <br />
<br />
I had no
hospitalizations. It's now been 10 months since I was last in a hospital.
Unfortunately, Adam and Sharon's daughter Avery (2) fell and hit her
head on a table and required a "staple" at the emergency room. She is
her father's daughter - Adam was the child that kept us busy with doctors. He had so
many broken bones we felt that we paid for the orthopedist's office building.<br />
<br />
Because I am feeling better I want to increase my activities. My
biggest "problem" now is fatigue. My doctors have adjusted my medication
and while that helps, I still spend a great deal of the day sleeping.
My goal remains to return to work part time and to do that, I need to
increase my stamina. Progress is slow but I am improving. Recently I
have started using a cane to get around the house. For the first time in 3 years I was able to get in the pool. Poor Andrew (7) thought I was going to drown.<br />
<br />
If I start to
get discouraged, Patra reminds me how far I've come. It really is
amazing to consider how different things were just one year ago. I'm not aiming to participate in the Olympics this month (although I can't wait to watch and cheer for USA) but I would like to be more independent. I really did take for granted the pleasures of walking, driving, working. I'm trying very hard not to take anything for granted now.<br />
<br />
On Father's Day, I had the privilege of sharing my testimony at our
church. Jenny (and David), Emily, Adam (and Sharon), and all the
grandchildren were there (the 4 youngest went to the nursery.) After I shared
Jenny spoke as the representative of the family. If you are interested, I've included a video from that evening service at Starkey Road Baptist Church.<br />
<br />
<iframe frameborder="0" height="386" scrolling="no" src="http://www.ustream.tv/embed/recorded/23390381" style="border: 0px none transparent;" width="480">&lt;p&gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;nbsp;&amp;amp;amp;amp;nbsp;&amp;amp;amp;amp;nbsp; &lt;/p&gt;</iframe><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.ustream.tv/" style="background: #ffffff; color: black; display: block; font-size: 10px; font-weight: normal; padding: 2px 0px 4px; text-align: center; text-decoration: underline; width: 400px;" target="_blank">Video streaming by Ustream</a><br />
<br />
Psalm 8 has been a very special Psalm during this journey. I often enjoy slowly reading and meditating upon its truths.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>(Psalms 8:1-9 CEV)</b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b><br /></b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>Our [Lord] and Ruler,</b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>your name is wonderful</b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>everywhere on earth!</b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>You let your glory be seen</b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>in the heavens above.</b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b> With praises from children</b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>and from tiny infants,</b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>you have built a fortress.</b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>It makes your enemies silent,</b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>and all who turn against you</b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>are left speechless.</b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b> I often think of the heavens</b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>your hands have made,</b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>and of the moon and stars</b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>you put in place.</b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b> <u>Then I ask, “Why do you care</u></b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u><i><b>about us humans?</b></i></u></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u><i><b>Why are you concerned</b></i></u></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u><i><b>for us weaklings?”</b></i></u></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b> You made us a little lower</b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>than you yourself, </b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>and you have crowned us</b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>with glory and honor.</b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b> You let us rule everything</b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>your hands have made.</b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>And you put all of it</b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>under our power—</b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b> the sheep and the cattle,</b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>and every wild animal,</b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b> the birds in the sky,</b></i></div>
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<i><b>the fish in the sea,</b></i></div>
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<i><b>and all ocean creatures.</b></i></div>
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<i><b> <u>Our [Lord] and Ruler,</u></b></i></div>
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<u><i><b>your name is wonderful</b></i></u></div>
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<u><i><b>everywhere on earth!</b></i></u><i><b> (Emphasis mine)</b></i><u><i><b><br /></b></i></u></div>
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<i>Dear God: Thank you for your goodness. We continue to pray for many friends who are walking through the "tall weeds." May they feel Your presence. Thank you for the prayers of friends. May I be faithful to You. In Jesus' name. Amen.</i></div>
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Until August 1. God willing.</div>
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Bob </div>Jennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594401190299002611noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-971901603509912637.post-31820865692874827122012-06-01T02:00:00.000-04:002012-06-01T02:00:05.407-04:00The Celebrations of May<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">"The Celebrations of May"</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Friday, June 1, 2012</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">From Bob</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">May turned out to be a busy month for me and for our family. The big event was Adam's graduation from Stetson Law School. As a graduate of the law school in 1976, I was allowed to present him with his diploma. Thank you Dean Roy Gardner for giving me that opportunity.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Stetson's graduation ceremony is held outside and it was a beautiful Florida day. A beautiful Florida day in the middle of May also means that it was very hot. Stetson was most accommodating. The school provided a room so that I would not have to stay in the heat. Thank you Brianna for making those arrangements. I didn't pass out! </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> Together with Sharon's mom and dad, we gathered after graduation for a small celebration and lunch.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Adam did much better than I did in law school. Much better. He graduated with honors and also received an award as the best public defender clinic student. The exciting part of the story is that he graduated on Saturday and started his new job with the state attorney's office on Monday. Now all he has to do is pass a little test (the bar exam) in July.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">May was also a busy birthday month. Andrew is now 7. Anderson is now 1. Jenny and James (Emily's husband) are now... a year older.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From left: Austin (6), Andrew (7), and Anderson (1)</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">MOTHER's Day was another opportunity to celebrate together. Our children gave Patra a picture of the grandchildren - her favorite gift.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">I had the privilege of sharing my testimony several times in May. I spoke to Bible study classes at Skycrest Baptist and Calvary Baptist churches and the Clearwater Men's Community Bible Study. I had hoped I would be an encouragement to others but I was the one blessed. Thank you. I had an opportunity to see long time friends and make new friends. People who have been praying for us came up and introduced themselves. Jenny spoke of the impact this type of illness has on the family. Many people shared their own journeys through "tall weeds." The common bond is that we have experienced God's grace and presence even in difficult moments. God is good... all the time.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sharing with Lifegroup at Calvary Baptist Church</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">I am still doing well. I return to the cardiologist in July and want to discuss my medications. I'm thinking the medications may be part of the reason I'm always sleeping. At the same time, I'm doing so well that I am reluctant to change anything. My dry weight (weight goal) at dialysis is now 70 kg (154 lbs.) It wasn't that long ago I was at 130 lbs. I am still having some problems with becoming light headed and passing out. Even that seems to be slowly improving.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><b>John 1:1-5 (KJV) In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life; and the life was the light of men. And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.</b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><i>Dear God:Thank you for another good month. Thank you for the opportunities to visit with others to share your faithfulness and goodness. You know all of our needs and You are able to meet our needs. More than anything we thank You for Jesus, the Creator of the world, the life and light of the world. In Jesus' name. Amen.</i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Until July 1. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">God willing.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Bob</span>Jennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594401190299002611noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-971901603509912637.post-5230775018631199812012-04-30T22:24:00.000-04:002012-04-30T22:24:54.139-04:00God is Good... All the Time!May 2012<br />
From Bob<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">God is Good ... All the time! </span></b><br />
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<span style="text-align: left;">It feels like a long time since I have written. It feels strange not to write a Friday blog anymore, but I think it's time to write only once a month. I am still doing well. I'm feeling good most days and have been improving in most activities of daily living. I am gaining weight and I'm told that I'm looking more like myself again. I still need my walker to get around and I also have blood pressure problems which cause me to faint. My biggest issue seems to be fatigue. I feel like I could sleep all day. The grandchildren are such a joy. Last weekend the whole family gathered and we celebrated birthdays for Andrew (7) and Austin (6).</span>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibQruGYyHeYRVsakKw4HkcGTkza_e7s5o2D0bDAjsrh8p9xtjjETsstJUYepDBDCE6kEFHPQs3IHUcyJ7aWZveBlAUyICZb3kBqY7My1494vVWwAzT72_20K4kLJ4aCFZ0uljRoJc0EBvd/s1600/April+29+324.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibQruGYyHeYRVsakKw4HkcGTkza_e7s5o2D0bDAjsrh8p9xtjjETsstJUYepDBDCE6kEFHPQs3IHUcyJ7aWZveBlAUyICZb3kBqY7My1494vVWwAzT72_20K4kLJ4aCFZ0uljRoJc0EBvd/s400/April+29+324.JPG" width="299" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Austin, Andrew & Andrew's cousin Kristin at a birthday celebration!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguhPIy_EqH_WGcPHLH63qZcg44rHyJQA61wvan9W2SUltDARvEi8eD3nNRpBuuUYXL3zxKV_qmXErmtp4coKTgP0oPqVZZc0sQ2fZGV4ZGrVxXf-vD-1Ewvf0fZq6u3NFY-sBEAoCM7MEB/s1600/April+29+301.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguhPIy_EqH_WGcPHLH63qZcg44rHyJQA61wvan9W2SUltDARvEi8eD3nNRpBuuUYXL3zxKV_qmXErmtp4coKTgP0oPqVZZc0sQ2fZGV4ZGrVxXf-vD-1Ewvf0fZq6u3NFY-sBEAoCM7MEB/s400/April+29+301.JPG" width="256" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Andrew</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhTdfa4xC8bS1rZWzAxh-O6djfK6TqG7d2daPGR4rs2FLGVBuS5I4CuN7hvTfMcHD9DJ5lp4SXgxmTxm6DHc9IAPM7ElDO5mlGhFOfKjxY0y14YcP-jgGjhlN54HHFL8DCTJnCz9Xzd65O/s1600/April+29+311.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhTdfa4xC8bS1rZWzAxh-O6djfK6TqG7d2daPGR4rs2FLGVBuS5I4CuN7hvTfMcHD9DJ5lp4SXgxmTxm6DHc9IAPM7ElDO5mlGhFOfKjxY0y14YcP-jgGjhlN54HHFL8DCTJnCz9Xzd65O/s400/April+29+311.JPG" width="299" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Austin</td></tr>
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Megan (2) and Avery (2) are little princesses and dress accordingly. They will also talk your ears off.
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8h9zKI3pqpiUUMrEfdWSi5W3mMS7cUA-XFO8Jzq3ygFSNSqX5pCK7yqUbL7Rv92ix33LAHRtZ3hbc4j7mY8LExEHLdmapCFnlJgLnLT091j8ULVOiRjz2jHbZ2y08BCDv51N1TG6iY-dj/s1600/April+29+129.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8h9zKI3pqpiUUMrEfdWSi5W3mMS7cUA-XFO8Jzq3ygFSNSqX5pCK7yqUbL7Rv92ix33LAHRtZ3hbc4j7mY8LExEHLdmapCFnlJgLnLT091j8ULVOiRjz2jHbZ2y08BCDv51N1TG6iY-dj/s400/April+29+129.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Princesses don't mind a little dirt to go with all that glitter...</td></tr>
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The babies, Riley (1) and Anderson, who will be 1 this month, are growing too fast. Riley is walking everywhere and Anderson is crawling everywhere. I suspect he will soon be walking.
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3yAMES7KQQJMVd9ui077XeA3pC2pv32lCzOMhI_kZHznxytq4fZc9m096aK-JgVab3SvfRvMRwcKBVBJwe0UFUbqusKc4fG9zF7b8RTbk3GdxkOYuHyUTVRO4F5-89SthkoWoQ7uQiLvU/s1600/April+29+283.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3yAMES7KQQJMVd9ui077XeA3pC2pv32lCzOMhI_kZHznxytq4fZc9m096aK-JgVab3SvfRvMRwcKBVBJwe0UFUbqusKc4fG9zF7b8RTbk3GdxkOYuHyUTVRO4F5-89SthkoWoQ7uQiLvU/s400/April+29+283.JPG" width="212" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Riley</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg39BP46dyyjzVa5f8IkdxsvtP_niSTgUMzh5SZoHEf59AjI9WVGQobsZoQ71cmYmhHr9SjISY1BnMdr3RujogrRZMTifRyOI0tERhpKcPdJpC6kyKUG4i6RT84Ylg01km8pTFYICvxZRGp/s1600/April+29+290.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg39BP46dyyjzVa5f8IkdxsvtP_niSTgUMzh5SZoHEf59AjI9WVGQobsZoQ71cmYmhHr9SjISY1BnMdr3RujogrRZMTifRyOI0tERhpKcPdJpC6kyKUG4i6RT84Ylg01km8pTFYICvxZRGp/s400/April+29+290.JPG" width="294" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Anderson</td></tr>
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Andrew finishes another little league season this month. I have been able to make most games which is quite a difference from last year when I was in the hospital so often.<br />
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Our son Adam graduates from law school this month. I look forward to reporting on his graduation ceremony next month. Please pray that I will be strong and able to attend the graduation - it promises to be a great day and one I am really looking forward to. Adam also has received a job offer. He will be an Assistant State Attorney here in Pinellas County.<br />
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Last Sunday I had the pleasure of teaching our Bible study class at our church. The class has been so supportive of our family since my diagnosis. This Sunday I have been asked to share my testimony with a young adult Bible study class at Skycrest Baptist (Clearwater.) At the end of May, I'll be sharing my testimony with a Bible study class at Calvary Baptist (Clearwater.) All of these classes have been praying for us. While we know many of the members of these classes personally, there are many I do not know. It is my sincere hope that my testimony will be an encouragement to those who are also walking through their own "tall weeds."<br />
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When I was a mediator, it was not uncommon for attorneys to ask if they could speak to me privately. They would share personal issues they were dealing with. If I had experienced similar issues (such as raising children - parenting issues), I felt more comfortable talking to them and trying to help. If it was an issue I had never dealt with, I always felt inadequate. Many times the only "help" I could give was to just listen. There were a few times where I felt there was nothing I could contribute and all I did was listen. As they left they would say "thanks, that was helpful." All I had done was listen!
After everything that has occurred the last several years, I am more sympathetic to those with serious health issues. I've "been there, done that, and have the T-shirt to prove it."<br />
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The writer of the book of Hebrews in the New Testament describes Jesus in this way:<br />
Hebrews 4:14-16 KJV<br />
<b>Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.</b><br />
<br />
In prayer, I have poured out my request for relief and have found HIS mercy and grace to help in my time of need. It may not always come as quickly as I wish, but as I look back over the last year, HIS timing has been perfect.<br />
<br />
<i>Dear God: Thank you for all your blessings. Please give me strength to teach and share my testimony. May it bring encouragement to those who hear. May Your Name be praised.</i>
Until June 1. <br />
<br />
God willing.
Bob<br />
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</div>Jennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594401190299002611noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-971901603509912637.post-90283196979014782712012-04-13T02:00:00.002-04:002012-04-13T02:00:12.488-04:00Looking Back at the Tall Weeds<span><span><span style="font-size: 100%; ">"Looking Back at the Tall Weeds"</span></span><br /><span><span style="font-size: 100%;">Friday, April 12, 2012</span></span><br /><span><span style="font-size: 100%;">From Bob</span></span><br /><br /><span><span style="font-size: 100%;">We hope you had a great Easter. Emily's family was unable to come and so they were missed. It is hard to believe how quickly the grandchildren are growing up. Because of their order of birth, we have three groups of grandchildren: the "Big Boys,"Andrew (6) and Austin (5); the "Girls," Megan and Avery, both 2; and the "Little Boys," Riley and Anderson, the babies. (It is very misleading to refer to Riley as a "little boy.")</span></span><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmH3DFkDBjb7e3vFwERO8qsDzxeoanSWPDOgQE6PBgUhAdsXDwuppAhdze7fLrNeMC3cIHyMuw6JY4xN9zz74WjORBkxY3Uj8V3BxiOAVo_Hfp8vY7-QXezPx7ojTQ169CHikfq9W7phWw/s1600/IMG_3217.JPG" style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmH3DFkDBjb7e3vFwERO8qsDzxeoanSWPDOgQE6PBgUhAdsXDwuppAhdze7fLrNeMC3cIHyMuw6JY4xN9zz74WjORBkxY3Uj8V3BxiOAVo_Hfp8vY7-QXezPx7ojTQ169CHikfq9W7phWw/s400/IMG_3217.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5730682050719937858" /></a></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span>Megan (2), Riley (1), Andrew (6), Avery (2)</span></div><span><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkm0wf2CkuVN11wOXrpXvS7TLmepcyZYuK5C7aib1I_TmhvWvrhqmiAvIU9v3yUyK6b7PGFrhUCnnZ90CcKA8ekPGPTnCKQoXyaqTyPgjtEspTaQOTKpYlTYWuwpvvT_5AhWB2TlE8NT3J/s1600/DSCN7823.JPG" style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 327px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkm0wf2CkuVN11wOXrpXvS7TLmepcyZYuK5C7aib1I_TmhvWvrhqmiAvIU9v3yUyK6b7PGFrhUCnnZ90CcKA8ekPGPTnCKQoXyaqTyPgjtEspTaQOTKpYlTYWuwpvvT_5AhWB2TlE8NT3J/s400/DSCN7823.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5730682244566427890" /></a></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span>Anderson (11 months), Austin (5)</span></div><span><br /><span><span style="font-size: 100%;">I have decided it is time to write my blog once a month rather than every week. My next blog post will be May 1, 2012 and, God willing, the first of each month thereafter. In the event unexpected events occur, I will blog earlier. If you want to make sure you receive any blog posts, please leave your email address in the block in the upper right corner.</span></span><br /><br /><span><span style="font-size: 100%;">I am humbled by those who have faithfully followed our journey for the past 2 1/2 years. There is no doubt in my mind that the prayers of so many people have sustained us. Thank you!</span></span><br /><br /><span><span style="font-size: 100%;">Many factors have led me to the conclusion that now is the time to do this. While I will miss writing weekly, the reasons for my decision are based on good developments. Moffitt Cancer Center recommended that bone marrow transplant (BMT) patients keep family and friends informed through a blog. We were admitted on February 23, 2010 and spent 30 days in the BMT unit. I thought I would be declared cured and the blog would be the only thing to die a natural death. In March 2010, I began the draft of my "final blog." It is said that if you want to make God laugh, tell Him your plans. Unfortunately the bone marrow transplant was unsuccessful and the blog continued. Today's blog post is #174. Rather than a quick cure, this "nasty little disease" has been a roller coaster ride with respect to our emotions and treatment. The blog continued to be an effective tool for keeping in touch. It also served as a form of therapy because it provided an opportunity to express my personal thoughts regarding our experiences and I could explain how God was working in our lives.</span></span><br /><br /><span><span style="font-size: 100%;">One of the best reasons for writing less often is that I am doing so much better. While I still have some problems, particularly orthostatic hypotension, there are only so many words to describe passing out. I believe I have exhausted all of those words.</span></span><br /><br /><span><span style="font-size: 100%;">I have not been hospitalized in almost 8 months. What an answer to prayer!</span></span><br /><br /><span><span style="font-size: 100%;">Another reason for writing only once a month is that there are other things I want to do. For those who read the blog regularly, you know that I really hope to present my testimony to Bible studies and other groups. For months, I did not think that would be possible. But God is good ... all the time. I am also "dreaming" about going back to work part time. (Dialysis, which I will need to have for the rest of my life, necessitates that anything I do must be part time.) I am studying my Bible more vigorously lately. While these may not sound like very significant goals, for a guy use to sleeping at least 15 hours a day for 2+ years, this Rip Van Winkle is exhausted just thinking about that much activity.</span></span><br /><br /><span><span style="font-size: 100%;">I am excited. I don't know what the future holds but God has led me in the past and I know He holds the future. It definitely feels like we have made it through the "tall weeds."</span></span><br /><br /><span><span style="font-size: 100%;">Dear God: Thank you for the blessings in my life. May I be faithful to you. Thank you for the friends who have prayed for us and supported us in so many ways.</span></span><br /><br /><span><span style="font-size: 100%;">Until May 1st. God willing.</span></span><br /><span><span style="font-size: 100%; ">Bob</span></span></span>Jennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594401190299002611noreply@blogger.com65tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-971901603509912637.post-73459505379506307392012-04-06T02:00:00.002-04:002012-04-06T02:00:05.492-04:00He is Risen!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP5o-qkoSHDp6rsomBQDO-BMQRrHpKJsBqFt6oH1_RigPedvVoJ3zutorQLKE-fmQIkwv3iDNfaEQH3qgNnidArQEH4DtjxbtOFvlHSusN2ey7CU-aMmO9US0T6Ie7_3_YQn5Viqh3p3Sl/s1600/Mark+166b+He+is+Risen.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP5o-qkoSHDp6rsomBQDO-BMQRrHpKJsBqFt6oH1_RigPedvVoJ3zutorQLKE-fmQIkwv3iDNfaEQH3qgNnidArQEH4DtjxbtOFvlHSusN2ey7CU-aMmO9US0T6Ie7_3_YQn5Viqh3p3Sl/s320/Mark+166b+He+is+Risen.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5728061085474456002" border="0" /></a>Friday, April 6, 2012 He is Risen<br />From Bob<br /><br /> Last <span style="font-weight: bold;">Saturday</span> I wasn't feeling well and walked from the bedroom to my chair and proceeded to pass out. <span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br />Monday </span>night we went to see Andrew (6) play baseball and after I pushed my walker from the car to the field I was exhausted. I became light headed and felt faint. Patra ran to the car and retrieved the wheelchair and took me home. Although I was only there for a few minutes, I did get to see Andrew hit.<br /><br />So Saturday and Monday were busts…<br />but in between, there was <span style="font-weight: bold;">Sunday</span> which was a great day. I went to Bible Study class at church and was able to give my testimony of how God has worked over the last two and 1/2 years. Patra stayed home to take care of a sick grandson. Jenny went with me and spoke about the impact this type of illness has on a family and how she has personally grown through the journey. She blessed me and I think she blessed the class. She spoke of how all of our children kept in touch with each other almost every day to juggle schedules and be available as needed. She emphasized the necessity to be flexible during these situations. Jenny told the group how our family never misses an opportunity to celebrate - birthdays, holidays - no occasion is too small to celebrate. You never know when it may be the last opportunity you have to all be together.<br /><br />Physically, I made it fine. (I did go to sleep as soon as we got home and didn't wake up until Tuesday. Only kidding.)<br /><br />I hope to be able to share my testimony with other groups. When you have been through an experience like this and it seems like you are coming out the other side, you are compelled to share the good news with other people.<br /><br />This Sunday is <span style="font-weight: bold;">Easter</span>, celebrating the resurrection of Jesus. I can't wait to see the grandchildren in their Easter outfits. I'll enjoy watching them hunt for eggs. But it is overwhelming to think of what the resurrection really means. Jesus conquered death and because of my faith in Him, someday I too will conquer death. If Christ had not done what He did, I would have no testimony to share.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">(Mark 16:6 NASB) And he said to them, "Do not be amazed; you are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who has been crucified. He has risen; He is not here; behold, here is the place where they laid Him.</span><br style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;"><br />There is an empty tomb where Jesus was buried! He is not there. HE IS RISEN!<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Dear God: Thank you for the blessing of sharing with the class this Sunday. What a wonderful, supportive group of people. I am humbled and thankful for the prayers of so many faithful people.</span><br style="font-style: italic;"><br />Until next Friday. God willing.<br />BobJennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594401190299002611noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-971901603509912637.post-28228522257906660172012-03-30T02:00:00.002-04:002012-03-30T02:00:11.951-04:00March 30, 2010<br />From Bob<br /><br /> I am excited! God willing, I will be sharing my testimony this Sunday during Bible Study. God has been so good the last several years and I look forward to sharing. It will also be quite an adventure. I pray that I will be physically able to do this. I still cannot stand alone and that is my preferred method of teaching or speaking. I do not want my voice to give out on me. <br /><br /> We are preparing several safeguards and fall back positions. Jenny is coming with us. I want her to talk about how my “nasty little disease” has impacted the family. If I falter she can pick up the slack. Also, Ben (our teacher) will be prepared to teach if needed. <br /> <br /> Preparing this week has been very interesting. After about 20 minutes of working, I am worn out and have to take a nap.<br /> <br /> I pray that my testimony will be an encouragement to others. There are so many people that are walking through the “tall weeds.” More than anything, I pray that God will be honored.<br /><br /> Our God is a mighty God and it is a joy to be able to talk about what He has done in my life. A testimony should be personal - what you have experienced. During our journey, we have personally experienced the love and presence of God in our life. He has placed people in our lives and they have ministered to us. Many of those are members of the class I will be speaking to. <br /><br /> King David’s testimony in the Bible was personal and passionate about his God. (Maybe I should just read it to the class.)<br /><br />Psalm 57:9-11(NIV)<br />I will praise you, Lord, among the nations;<br />I will sing of you among the peoples.<br />For great is your love, reaching to the heavens;<br />Your faithfulness reaches to the skies.<br />Be exalted, O God, above the heavens;<br />Let your glory be over all the earth.<br /><br /> That is my testimony as well!<br /> I am a little concerned about how my testimony will go over. I was practicing this week and Riley was watching me. Below you can see how excited he was by what he heard.<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifmy0jR_5E-SqLF3PMIHhkg2Sa9rvq3_siQAruZ-iSy_-IwGo2JjqhliyDqz3So0PNfVaylM_gs42VhMUGWGcr2iRzldAuysedVOGp5O6EJ6WkpQEzL4S187tEWQpMGu6KurwMv2Ahkcd1/s1600/IMG_0016.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifmy0jR_5E-SqLF3PMIHhkg2Sa9rvq3_siQAruZ-iSy_-IwGo2JjqhliyDqz3So0PNfVaylM_gs42VhMUGWGcr2iRzldAuysedVOGp5O6EJ6WkpQEzL4S187tEWQpMGu6KurwMv2Ahkcd1/s400/IMG_0016.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5725466439617685698" /></a><br /><br /> Emily, Austin and Anderson are here for a couple of days. Austin (5) was telling us about “vehicle day” at his school. They had a Publix refrigerated truck (“not that cold”), a Walmart truck, an airboat, a helicopter and an army “missile vehicle.” Austin was allowed to climb into the turret. He told us that it was not loaded with any “missiles.” I was so relieved. There is no doubt in my mind that he would have discovered how to “launch” them.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqBuCjIsHPXL0vLqpwxVYpUQQPxPcfg6hA0YORKqBa0aTeQVAEpGQGpODOOdToTGMKW-SaXFUhcf_QyMfwI3z5Z-PwF2tGcayNLMcMirE17vkfoZlQSZ2ghTbAQXUTZtneItx0J1uUUfQP/s1600/IMG_0019.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqBuCjIsHPXL0vLqpwxVYpUQQPxPcfg6hA0YORKqBa0aTeQVAEpGQGpODOOdToTGMKW-SaXFUhcf_QyMfwI3z5Z-PwF2tGcayNLMcMirE17vkfoZlQSZ2ghTbAQXUTZtneItx0J1uUUfQP/s400/IMG_0019.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5725466923361670274" /></a><br /><br /><br />Dear God: Thank you for another good week. Please give me the strength to give my testimony this week. You have been so faithful. Please be with those who are working through difficult times. I pray for their healing. In Jesus’ name. Amen.<br /><br />Until next Friday. God willing.<br />BobJennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594401190299002611noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-971901603509912637.post-69398320510639121422012-03-23T02:00:00.003-04:002012-03-24T08:46:42.150-04:00Baby Steps<div><span style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">"Baby Steps"</span></div><span style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">Friday, March 23, 2012</span><br style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">From Bob</span><br style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><br style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">It was an exciting week as Riley began walking. We knew the day was coming. He had been "walking" from one piece of furniture to another and sometimes he would momentarily let go and stand on his own. He finally got the courage to take off. There won't be any turning back now. Riley and Anderson are soon going to be little boys and not babies.</span><div><br /></div><div><br /><iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/r-oUz2sjvLA?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br /><br /><br style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">Last Sunday I was able to go to church, Bible study and lunch. What a blessing to feel good enough to enjoy a day. I think I am taking my own small steps. Although I probably won't take off like Riley, when I look back over the last two years' journey, I can't believe how far we've come.</span><br style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "> </span><br style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">Until this week, I have never gone back and read my blog. This week I read some of the early entries. So many thoughts came to my mind. First, I hope my writing improved over time! Patra, Jenny and Emily did a great job when I was unable to write. I appreciate them filling in the details of my treatments.</span><br style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "> </span><br style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">Faith, Family, Friends. I began this journey noting that we would rely upon our faith, our family and our friends. There was no way I could have known then how true that would be. Your friendship means so much. Thank you.</span><br style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "> </span><br style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">Most of all, as I read the early entries of my blog, I was reminded of and impressed by the grace of God. God is good... all the time. No matter what a day may bring, God is in control. Francesca Batiscelli sings a song "This is the Stuff." A portion of it's lyrics are:</span><br style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><br style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>"In the middle of my little mess, I forget how much I'm blessed."</span><br style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><br style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">As I continue to deal with this "nasty little disease," my own "little mess," it is my prayer that I will never forget how much I'm blessed.</span><br style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><br style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><i style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">Dear God: Thank you for your goodness. I am truly blessed. Thank you for family and friends who have been so faithful.<br /></i><span style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "></span><br style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">Until next Friday. God willing.</span><br style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">Bob</span></div>Jennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594401190299002611noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-971901603509912637.post-57746698672817622412012-03-16T02:00:00.001-04:002012-03-16T02:00:03.208-04:00Friday, March 16<div style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; ">Friday, March 16, 2012</span></div><span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">From Bob</span><br style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><br style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "> It has been a great week. Sunday we celebrated Riley's dedication at church and his 1st birthday. Sharon did a wonderful job preparing for the "parties." I enjoyed being with our family and Sharon's family - and Riley was perfect.</span><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><br /></div><div><span ><span style="font-size: 100%; margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtWQwVnxFRh8SljeQkc2nw_4GwTwJGHewRZ0yoWAX5ZG-XGYW0IFzvThASS0SIHKy70l9P-peTjzMnd86wW7paaFLefFhmG7laZwmdZbmRMPl2_lt5v92oey_2o6ag6zJYF896r1hz5Cm0/s400/IMG_2748.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5720293884123128530" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); text-decoration: underline; display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px; " /></span></span><div style="text-align: center;">(Sharon, Riley, Adam, and Avery)</div><br /><span style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4LxkBUhVSd53qgb9NtFsfdVB5A3b_Hre8kU_M9LQfqIop-AJd60zImH7p2VemN-P9mrELEzd3wzdMrw_4XhEE8OkufLfPNPcuHnLa43wErTC_S2l-V_OWvFQchc6SOK24EOmVaodWCc-2/s400/IMG_2838.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5720294100833108738" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; text-decoration: underline; display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 267px; height: 400px; " /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span ><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: none;">(Riley enjoying his "smash" cake)</span></span></div><span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><div><span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><br /></span></div> Tuesday night I attended the men's Bible study that I had been a part of for so many years. It was the first time I had been since they started a new year of study in September. As I told some of the men, until a few weeks ago, I was in bed and asleep by 7:30. Now that I am feeling better I am still in bed, just not sleeping at 7:30. I'm so glad I stayed up "late" Tuesday. Just being with the men as they study the Bible was an encouragement to me. Barry (the new Teaching Director) did a great job in his "wrap up" or summary of the night's study.</span><br style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><br /> </span></div><div><span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">As I looked at the men at the Bible study I was reminded of Paul's exhortation to the younger pastor Timothy.</span><br style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><br style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span style="font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><i>2 Timothy 2:15 KJV "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."</i></span><br style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><br style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "> The men I was surrounded by were studying God's Word. They weren't just reading it but they were seeking to understand the applications to their own lives. They desire to be better husbands and fathers. They want to make a difference in their homes, work places, neighborhoods and communities. They understand the importance of correctly handling the Word of Truth if they are to be ambassadors for Christ.</span><br style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><br /> </span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">Although I haven't passed out in several days, Wednesday was a "dialysis day" and afterward I suffered from "dialysis daze." I came home and took a nap. Patra fixed dinner and then I went back to bed for the night. I felt so much better when I woke up Thursday morning.</span><br style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><br /> </span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span style="font-style: normal; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">Thursday night Andrew had a baseball game. I haven't missed a game this year! I know that it's not a contest to be there every game. But to a six year old, who shyly waves at me when he catches my eye when he is in the on deck circle preparing to bat, it is incredibly important to me that he knows his Grandpa supports him. I've missed too many games the last two years.</span><br style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><br style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><i>Dear God: Thank you for another good week. I'm glad I was able to enjoy Riley's dedication and the family time together. Thank you for giving me the strength to go to Bible study Tuesday night. I am also blessed by an outstanding Bible study at church. Thank you for those who teach me Your Word. You know my friends that have needs. Father, be with them, comfort them, encourage them and if it be Your will, heal them.</i></span><br style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><br style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span style="font-style: normal; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">Until next Friday. God willing.</span><br style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span style="font-style: normal; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">Bob</span></div>Jennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594401190299002611noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-971901603509912637.post-3399839494959141992012-03-09T02:00:00.008-05:002012-03-09T12:42:18.375-05:00What A Difference A Year Makes!<span style="font-style: normal; ">What A Difference A Year Makes!</span><div><span><span style="font-style: normal; "><span style="font-size:100%;">Friday, March 9, 2012</span></span><br /><span style="font-style: normal; "><span style="font-size:100%;">From Bob</span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: normal; "><span style=" ;font-size:100%;" ><i>(Jeremiah 29:11 NIV) "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."</i></span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: normal; "><span style="font-size:100%;">I do not know all of God's plans for my life. I do know that God is sovereign and that He does have a plan for me, just as He has a plan for you. Now it appears that God's plan for me includes a future here on earth. Fourteen months ago, my oncologist told Patra that no more treatments could be done and her advice was to keep me as comfortable as possible. Her advice seemed correct as I continued getting worse each day. I spent most of the next 8 months in and out of the hospital before my health slowly started to improve. It has now been 6 months since I've been hospitalized.</span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: normal; "><span style="font-size:100%;">THEN... I received some really good news this week! In February I had an Echocardiagram to evaluate my heart function. This is measured by the heart's "ejection fraction" or EF. Last year when I had an Echocardiagram the "ejection fraction" was 30%. That was confirmed last April during my heart catheterization. Before the recent procedure I was told that the doctor wanted to determine whether I had lost any heart function. I was told that someone with Amyloidosis in their heart would not see improvement in heart function over time.</span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: normal; "><span style="font-size:100%;">Surprise, surprise. My heart function now is 50 - 55%! (for the record, I obtained a copy of the Echocardiagram report a couple of weeks ago but wanted to wait until I saw my cardiologist before I got too excited.) To clarify, a normal EF is between 55 - 65%. If the EF is below 45%, it means generally that there is a decrease in the heart's ability to pump blood. If the EF is below 30 - 35% that generally represents a significant decrease in heart function. In the past year I have gone from concern about a significant decrease in heart function to a NORMAL heart function.</span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: normal; "><span style="font-size:100%;">When we were discussing how this might have happened, because it is contrary to what the medical literature suggests as a natural progression of this "nasty little disease," I told my doctor that I knew how it happened. It was the answer to many, many prayers that have been offered on my behalf.</span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: normal; "><span style="font-size:100%;">Thank you for your prayers. They mean so much. Combined with great doctors and medications and surgeries, my heart is better.</span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: normal; "><span style="font-size:100%;">God really is the Great Physician. All glory and praise belong to Him.</span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: normal; "><span style="font-size:100%;">I am not totally out of the woods. The Amyloidosis has caused a thickening of the heart which inhibits some functions of the heart. Although it is presently well controlled by medication, there is still an issue with arrhythmias. I must be careful with my fluids so I don't pass out. One glance in the mirror says I am not ready to compete in any body building contests even though I have gained 15 pounds in the last several months. Despite the injections, I still have significant back pain. So please don't quit praying.</span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: normal; "><span style="font-size:100%;">What is God's plan for me? I believe in my life, He will reveal it day by day. I hope His will includes walking unassisted, driving and working again. Right now, I am satisfied to see prayers answered and to feel so much better.</span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: normal; "><span style="font-size:100%;">This weekend is very special for Adam and Sharon. Riley Robert Bugg will be dedicated at church. We will also be celebrating his first birthday. When Riley was born I was in ICU at the hospital and we were all concerned that I'd not get a chance to meet him. What a difference a year makes. Last year at this time I was clinging to life in hopes of meeting my newest grandson. It will indeed be a special celebration. All of Sharon's family will be in town as well as ours.</span></span><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0mPGde-cJ_UmWjR9nCqAp73cALmSgwVovx9Ij6dne9_szHYh9WiLiHF_MBkRUJqVdFquKRFzV6VD5KUe_PWcHIF3d14Jh-pEUJFH_es-9jPpSpmEFA1vnT4opgP3iP0a3_KntRovxGgGb/s1600/riley_blog.jpg" style="font-style: normal; font-size: 16px; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0mPGde-cJ_UmWjR9nCqAp73cALmSgwVovx9Ij6dne9_szHYh9WiLiHF_MBkRUJqVdFquKRFzV6VD5KUe_PWcHIF3d14Jh-pEUJFH_es-9jPpSpmEFA1vnT4opgP3iP0a3_KntRovxGgGb/s400/riley_blog.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5717698649853578594" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 299px; height: 400px; " border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-style: normal; "><span style="font-size:100%;">Last week a friend died unexpectedly. He had been a part of our men's Bible study since the beginning. Patra and I attended the "celebration" of his life and his promotion to heaven. We pray for his wife and sons.</span></span><br /><br /><span><span style=" ;font-size:100%;" ><i>Dear God: Thank you for all the blessings you give to us. We thank you for Riley and pray that he will grow up loving You. We thank you for all of our children and grandchildren. We thank you for all the friends who support us with their prayers. Whatever Your plan is for me, I want to be faithful to You. I know that my heart functions best when it is turned to you. In Jesus' name, Amen.</i></span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: normal; "><span style="font-size:100%;">Until next Friday, and maybe several more Fridays. God willing.</span></span><br /><span style="font-style: normal; "><span style=" ;font-size:100%;" >Bob</span></span></span></div>Jennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594401190299002611noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-971901603509912637.post-6885879964644757012012-03-02T02:00:00.002-05:002012-03-02T02:00:06.828-05:00Baseball & "Bernie""Baseball & Bernie"<br />Friday, March 2, 2012<br />From Bob<br /><br /> While I am not promoting the movie, I must confess that I have seen <span style="font-weight:bold;">"Weekend at Bernie's"<span style="font-style:italic;"></span></span> and I laughed at many of the scenes. It was a 1989 comedy where some wild and outrageous characters pretend that their murdered employer is still alive. To accomplish their ruse they are forced to prop up and animate the dead body in numerous situations. Adam claims we created our own scene from "Weekdays at Bob's" on Monday. When I finished dialysis my blood pressure was low. After drinking some fluid and resting, my blood pressure rose to an acceptable level and I was released from the dialysis center although I was still feeling puny. In the car I drank more water and reclined the seat back.<br /><br /> When we arrived home Adam was there to pick up his children. He came to the car as Patra was getting the kids out. When I stood up, my world began to spin and fade. I told Patra I was faint and she called out to Adam. I passed out and when I came to, Patra and Adam filled me in on what had happened. When I passed out, Adam caught me, and he and Patra carried me from the driveway into the house. Adam held my shoulders and upper body and Patra lifted my legs. When they got me in the door, they remembered the little ones were outside, so they ran through the house and deposited me on the couch. Adam was convinced that if any neighbors saw "the body" being transported into the house, the police would soon be arriving. They deny it, but my back says I "fell" onto the couch. If only we had filmed it. We might have gone viral.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIvgOc7MXSqetgGlNS3VwipHDG3Fm3sCSyE1L-6xKYeV0AeAIPPTXbQ_O3tfq5cfrGLUIJTRDduVe1HbdYxPFX8AZyEJOINEFV4rkvcmONkAYfDZv-89wTqVec3J1dyl_GrWmUlcRdcy0f/s1600/bernie.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 225px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIvgOc7MXSqetgGlNS3VwipHDG3Fm3sCSyE1L-6xKYeV0AeAIPPTXbQ_O3tfq5cfrGLUIJTRDduVe1HbdYxPFX8AZyEJOINEFV4rkvcmONkAYfDZv-89wTqVec3J1dyl_GrWmUlcRdcy0f/s400/bernie.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5715127997652237842" /></a><br /><br />Once again I was protected from any injuries when I passed out. God is good.<br /><br /> Thursday night we went to Andrew's first little league game of the spring season. How exciting to see so many boys and girls learning to play baseball under the lights.<br /> <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzWTIk6gchTgK6WrLSRWpAHhAB5AkDA58pMzW5LBPqOajHj7d4Aq3Qp8ZtEogJ64LZzowVvC6DOOndm_VggDKK6241fh2Z-PU_rtMLPmjtUspE-tU1q7LrrpMwL_GHDZ4IbTxWZ35Z0rP7/s1600/DSC01916.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzWTIk6gchTgK6WrLSRWpAHhAB5AkDA58pMzW5LBPqOajHj7d4Aq3Qp8ZtEogJ64LZzowVvC6DOOndm_VggDKK6241fh2Z-PU_rtMLPmjtUspE-tU1q7LrrpMwL_GHDZ4IbTxWZ35Z0rP7/s400/DSC01916.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5715120939077896322" /></a><br /><br />Patra held Megan (2) so she enjoyed the evening also. Andrew has improved so much. In many ways it seems like a hundred years ago that I was in the Bone Marrow Transplant unit at Moffitt Cancer Center and missed Andrew's very first T-ball game. (It was only two years ago.) Jenny brought me a video in the hospital. It is much better to be there in person. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-ReaLGGUolSeTbCjf1aMItOO6gg8vJgORNF3GpF9AAt3aqQAZsE5y3HSXydht7reNWUXCcBDVoV2eefHC5MAiiVRZhtYkfqkmleUveCVSStXOTBwv9ruKDMc5c_8v1QjJxHITZ1wDUxcU/s1600/DSC01922.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-ReaLGGUolSeTbCjf1aMItOO6gg8vJgORNF3GpF9AAt3aqQAZsE5y3HSXydht7reNWUXCcBDVoV2eefHC5MAiiVRZhtYkfqkmleUveCVSStXOTBwv9ruKDMc5c_8v1QjJxHITZ1wDUxcU/s400/DSC01922.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5715121058501430354" /></a><br /><br />Two years ago, I don't believe anyone (including my doctors) thought I would feel as good as I do and be able to go to a game. I need to be very careful not to hurt myself when I pass out and I am working on my mobility. My new walker is wonderful but I would love to be able to walk without assistance.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">(James 5:16b KJV) "The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much."</span><br /><br /> When I was a young boy I memorized this verse. While I had no idea what the words <span style="font-style:italic;">effectual, fervent</span> or <span style="font-style:italic;">availeth</span> meant, my teachers did instill a sense of what the verse means. It is easier to understand in a different translation.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">(James 5:16b HCSB). "The urgent request of a righteous person is very powerful in its effect. "</span><br /><br /> Patra and I know that we are where we are because of the "urgent requests" that have been made on our behalf. We again thank you for your prayers on our behalf. They mean so much. There are so many people that we need to be urgently praying for.<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Dear God: I thank you for the goodness you have shown to me. Thank you once again for protecting me from injury. Thank you that I am able to enjoy my family. No matter what tomorrow brings I want to be faithful to you. In Jesus' name, Amen.</span><br /><br />Until next Friday. God willing.<br />BobJennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594401190299002611noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-971901603509912637.post-85295641463532632252012-02-24T02:00:00.001-05:002012-02-24T02:00:09.670-05:00Not Just A Survivor<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><a href="x-apple-data-detectors://0" detectors="true" result="0">Friday, February 24, 2012</a><br /><span>From Bob</span><br /><span></span><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><span> This turned out to be a "typical week." Sunday was a great day. I went to church, Bible study and Patra and I went out to lunch. It was wonderful but I was exhausted when we arrived home. I took a long afternoon nap.</span><br /><br /><span> Monday, after I left dialysis I passed out.</span><br /><br /><span> Tuesday, I had my fourth Epidural Steroid Injection (ESI.) This shot was in the low back. (Last Friday the pain had gone from my back to the quadriceps muscle in my right leg.) As I was getting up off the table the nurse told me my color didn't look right. I told her I was light headed and she had me sit on my walker. I vaguely remember her calling for help. I thought I had seen it all with respect to passing out. This was the first time that someone used "smelling salts" and I can testify that is one of the worst smells I have smelt. While I "reacted" to the "smelling salts" that did not revive me. When I did come back to reality, I was in a bed with my head lowered , the doctor taking my blood pressure and a nurse holding a cold compress on my head. </span><br /><br /><span> When we got home, Adam was at the house and he came to the car to help me in. "You passed out again?". I told him everybody deserves to pass out once a day! I went to bed and slept almost 4 hours.</span><br /><br /><span> Wednesday was a very good day at dialysis. They were able to get all the excess fluid off and I had no problems with my blood pressure.</span><br /><br /><span> So a "typical week." Two days up and two days down.</span><br /><br /><span> As I write this on Thursday, it has been a good day. My back and leg feel significantly better after the ESI.</span><br /><span> God is good. I can hardly believe that as many times as I have passed out over the past two years, I have never hurt myself.</span><br /><span> <br /><br />Almost every day I hear someone say, "I am a cancer survivor." What exactly does that mean? I wanted to know if I was a survivor of this "nasty little disease." Does a doctor have to say you are a survivor? None of my doctors have said that. Does a doctor have to say you are in remission? None of my doctors have said that either. Do you have to live a certain amount of time after diagnosis? Is two years enough or do I need to wait longer to make that claim? </span><br /><br /><span> I decided to do a little research and went to Wikepedia. I was a little surprised to learn that I am apparently not the only one who has ever pondered this issue. There are differing definitions and even differing preferred terms, including "alivers," "thrivers," and even "diers."</span><br /><span> Remembering that my grandson Austin (5) had cautioned me that Wikepedia is not always a reliable source, I decided to go to the web site of the National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship (NCCS.) "Founded by and for cancer survivors, NCCS created the widely accepted definition of survivorship and defines someone as a cancer survivor </span><br /><span>from the time of diagnosis and for the balance of life."</span><br /><br /><span> As I was reading my Bible this week I realized that it really didn't matter what the definition of cancer survivor is.</span><br /><span></span><br /><span>Romans 8:35-39 "<i>Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? As it is written:</i></span><i><br /><span>"For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered." No, in all these things <b>we are more than conquerors</b> through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."</span></i><br /><span></span><br /><span> I am not just a survivor. I am <i><b>"more than a conqueror." </b></i> My "nasty little disease" was conquered before I was even born.</span><br /><span> Andrew (6) starts little league this week. I know I'm old but this week we were watching ESPN and Jenny noted they were doing a segment on Michael Jordan. Andrew piped up, "Who is Michael Jordan?" Jenny, isn't it great getting old?</span><br /><span></span><br /><span><i>Dear God: I am so grateful that I am<b> "more than a conqueror."</b> You are always good. Thank You for your presence and protection. I want to be faithful to You. In Jesus' name, Amen.</i></span><br /><span></span><br /><span><a href="x-apple-data-detectors://2" detectors="true" result="2">Until next Friday</a>.<br />God willing.</span><br />Bob</span><div><div></div></div>Jennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594401190299002611noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-971901603509912637.post-7112833411794718492012-02-17T02:00:00.002-05:002012-02-17T02:00:07.880-05:00The Big Office Move<span style="font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; "><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><b><i>The Big Office Move</i></b></span><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><span style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); ">Friday, February 17, 2012</span><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><span style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); ">From Bob</span><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><span style="font-weight: normal; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><i>There is something new in the upper right column of my blog. You can enter your email address and every time we publish a new post, you will receive an email with a link to the blog site. Unless something dramatic happens, it is my intention to continue to only write a post once a week, on Friday.</i></span><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><span style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "> </span><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><span style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); ">I wish everyone a belated Happy Valentine's Day. It seemed apropos that Patra and I spent the morning of Valentine's Day at the HEART doctor's office. The Echocardiagram went smoothly, but it will be several weeks before I get the results. This week I get my low back epidural steroid injection which should continue to help manage my back pain.</span><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><span style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "> </span><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><span style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); ">Last Saturday was moving day for my office. We knew that the responsibility would fall mostly on Adam, Emily and Jenny to pack up and move everything (I offered to move the heavy stuff myself, but no one took me up on it), and they did a tremendous job. Jenny put the word out to her church small group, and many volunteered their Saturday morning to help us. With the large moving truck James was able to bring down from Gainesville, our moving "team" got the entire office packed up into one load (plus a few truck beds). Everything was finished by lunchtime. Patra and I are so appreciative of everyone who gave of their time and effort to help us out. It meant so much.</span></span><div style="font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; "><span><br /></span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><span><i>**From Jenny: I try not to overstep the boundaries, but I'm hijacking my dad's blog for just a moment here! The "Big Office Move" last Saturday was an amazing experience for me, personally. When we decided that we needed to get everything moved out, I was once again reminded of how grateful I am for the relationship I have with each of my siblings and their spouses <span>(Emily, James, Adam, Sharon & my husband David). </span><span>Each of them sacrificed their own plans to do what needed to be done, just as they have done time and time again over the last few years. </span></i></span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><span><i><br /></i></span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><span><i>In addition, I am overcome with gratitude for our little home-group from church. Their overwhelming response to help just confirmed to me that my Dad's motto (Faith, Family, Friends) is spot-on. Many of the guys who helped us Saturday have never met my parents. They just helped because they heard of a need and wanted to show God's love to someone in a tangible way. Words just don't do it justice. But I thank God for showing me yet another example of the community of believers who have done SO MANY things for our family over the last 2 years. Thank you all! (Ok... back to my Dad, who might just be changing his password after this - haha!)</i></span></div><div style="font-style: normal; "><span><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><span style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); ">Patra and I continue to count our blessings. Last year at this time we were making regular visits to the hospital. While dialysis continues to be a challenge, we understand that it is essential. I am learning to cope better with spending 3 days a week at dialysis and then feeling the effects when I come home.</span><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><span style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); ">2 Corinthians 12:9 "And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me."</span><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><span style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); ">Just before this portion of his letter to the Corinthian church, the apostle Paul has referenced his own "thorn in the flesh." Paul says that he asked the Lord 3 times to remove this infirmity. What was the Lord's response? "My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness." God didn't "heal" Paul, God didn't remove the "thorn in the flesh."</span><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><span style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "> </span><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><span style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); ">All of us experience problems. Some are physical illness, some relational, some vocational, some financial. My current problem is a "nasty little disease." We really want our problems to "go away." Sometimes they do and sometimes they don't. The fact that Paul asked 3 times suggests that he really wanted the problem removed and he knew that God could do it. I have prayed more than 3 times that God would heal me. I know He could and I would really like that.</span><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><span style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); ">What is most important is OUR response. Paul responded: "Most gladly therefore will I glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me."</span><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><span style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "> </span><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><span style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); ">It is my prayer that I will respond to my illness in a way that glorifies God.</span><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><span style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "> </span><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><span style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); ">Thank you for your continued prayers for me and my family.</span><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><i style="font-style: normal; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><b>Dear God: Your grace is amazing. May all glory and praise be lifted up to you. In my weakness help me to find the strength You have promised. May You be with all of our friends who are ill or have other needs. In Jesus name. Amen.</b><br /></i><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><span style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); ">Until next Friday. God willing.</span><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><span style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); ">Bob</span></span></div>Jennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594401190299002611noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-971901603509912637.post-48806278165001844072012-02-10T02:00:00.000-05:002012-02-10T02:00:12.183-05:00Justice, Mercy, HumilityFriday, February 9, 2012.<br />"Justice, Mercy, Humility"<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">From Bob</span><br style="font-style: italic;"><br /> I have an Echocardiagram next Tuesday. I'm anxiously awaiting the results. The last couple of times I've "sweet talked" the technician into telling me what they thought. However, their impression didn't always agree with the doctor's interpretation so I may just wait this time to hear directly from the doctor. It usually doesn't take long.<br /><br /> We are having this test done to see if there has been any change in my heart function. My heart catheterization several months ago confirmed my previous Echocardiagram that my heart function was 30%. (I was pleased to learn that a "normal" heart functions at 60%, not 100%.)<br /><br /> Tomorrow we (not me) will be cleaning out my office for an anticipated sale. Jenny's friends from church volunteered to help so we have plenty of people-power and trucks lined up. What a blessing! While there is really no choice but to rid ourselves of the financial obligations associated with the office, it is still emotional. Patra is having a harder time than I am. She physically painted every wall and installed all of the interior woodwork. We spent many wonderful days there together running our business. I have been told that my biggest contribution this weekend would be to stay out of the way. My back is still very painful so I will comply with that request.<br /><br /> The grandchildren continue to be a blessing. Andrew (6) has started little league practice. I told him I am feeling better this year and want to go to more games. He asked me if I could go to ALL of his games. I hope I can. Austin (5) continues to amaze and entertain us with his "Austinisms." He already knows more about exotic animals than I do. The other day Patra asked him why God made an animal a certain way. He told her he didn't know but he would google it and tell her the answer. Megan and Avery (2) are like sisters. They play together so well and are beginning to talk all the time. We can already see that Riley and Anderson will soon be little boys and not babies.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Micah 6:8 He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?</span><br /><br /> This is a great verse to memorize since it so clearly gives us directions for living our lives. I will just talk about walking "humbly with thy God." It is so easy to see ourselves as the center of our universe, to think we are in charge. I confess that as a grandparent that is the message I am giving my grandchildren. It's their parents responsibility to teach them the truth about themselves. The other day I was thinking about how great it is not having to be the disciplinarian. It will no doubt be harder for this generation. What with television, video games and the Internet, our children must be more diligent than we were. My grandchildren won't be watching "Father knows best," "Mary Tyler Moore," or "Bonanza."<br /><br /> Having this "nasty little disease" has taught me so much about walking humbly with God. He is the center of the universe, He is the One in charge. That is a very good thing -if I were in charge, I would really mess things up.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Dear God: We continue to pray for many friends who are ill. May they know your presence in a special way. I pray for relief from back pain. Help me to seek justice, love mercy and walk humbly with you. Thank you for teaching more about You every day. In Jesus' name. Amen.</span><br /><br />Until next Friday. God willing.<br />BobJennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594401190299002611noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-971901603509912637.post-71777851535898150572012-02-03T02:00:00.001-05:002012-02-02T21:48:01.683-05:00"Living Water"<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:officedocumentsettings> <o:pixelsperinch>72</o:PixelsPerInch> <o:targetscreensize>544x376</o:TargetScreenSize> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:trackmoves/> <w:trackformatting/> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:donotpromoteqf/> <w:lidthemeother>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther> <w:lidthemeasian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian> <w:lidthemecomplexscript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> 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mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="Body1"><span style="font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi- font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-hansi-Arial Unicode MS"font-family:";font-size:10.0pt;" ><br /></span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal"><span style="font-size:20.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family:"Arial Unicode MS","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:"Times New Roman";mso-bidi-Times New Roman"font-family:";font-size:10.0pt;" >“</span></i><i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal"><span style="font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-hansi-Arial Unicode MS"font-family:";font-size:10.0pt;" >Living Water</span></i><i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal"><span style="font-size: 20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-family:"Arial Unicode MS","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:"Times New Roman";mso-bidi-Times New Roman"font-family:";font-size:10.0pt;" >”</span></i><i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal"><span style="font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-hansi-Arial Unicode MS"font-family:";font-size:10.0pt;" ></span></i></p> <p class="Body1"><span style="font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi- font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-hansi-Arial Unicode MS"font-family:";font-size:10.0pt;" >Friday, February 3, 2012</span><span style="font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi- Times New Roman","serif"font-family:";font-size:10.0pt;" ></span></p> <p class="Body1"><span style="font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi- font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-hansi-Arial Unicode MS"font-family:";font-size:10.0pt;" >From Bob</span><span style="font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-Times New Roman","serif"font-family:";font-size:10.0pt;" ></span></p> <p class="Body1"><span style="font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi- Times New Roman","serif"font-family:";font-size:10.0pt;" > </span></p> <p class="Body1"><span style="font-size:130%;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal"><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-hansi-Arial Unicode MS"font-family:";" >(John 4:7-15 HCSB) A woman of Samaria came to draw water. "Give Me a drink," Jesus said to her, for His disciples had gone into town to buy food. "How is it that You, a Jew, ask for a drink from me, a Samaritan woman?" she asked Him. For Jews do not associate with Samaritans. Jesus answered, "If you knew the gift of God, and who is saying to you, 'Give Me a drink,' you would ask Him, and He would give you living water." "Sir," said the woman, "You don't even have a bucket, and the well is deep. So where do You get this 'living water'? You aren't greater than our father Jacob, are You? He gave us the well and drank from it himself, as did his sons and livestock."<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Jesus said, "Everyone who drinks from this water will get thirsty again.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>But whoever drinks from the water that I will give him will never get thirsty again-ever! In fact, the water I will give him will become a well of water springing up within him for eternal life." "Sir," the woman said to Him, "give me this water so I won't get thirsty and come here to draw water."</span></i></span><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-hansi-Arial Unicode MS"font-family:";font-size:16.0pt;" > </span></p> <p class="Body1"><span style="font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi- Times New Roman","serif"font-family:";font-size:10.0pt;" > </span></p> <p class="Body1"><span style="font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi- font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-hansi-Arial Unicode MS"font-family:";font-size:10.0pt;" ><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>February, 2012. I have made it another month. It has been 5 months since I have been in the hospital. What a blessing! God is good - all the time. God is good - every month! </span><span style="font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-Times New Roman","serif"font-family:";font-size:10.0pt;" ></span></p> <p class="Body1"><span style="font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi- font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-hansi-Arial Unicode MS"font-family:";font-size:10.0pt;" ><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I had a good day at dialysis on Monday.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>My sitting blood pressure stayed high enough to get me released. In fact, my dialysis went so smoothly that I finished before Patra arrived to pick me up. That had never happened before. The nurse pushed me in my wheelchair to get my weight and then opened the door to the waiting room.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>That is the last thing I remember for several minutes.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>One of our friends waiting for her husband later told us she knew something was wrong when I didn't respond to her. She touched my arm and it was clammy. I think she thought I had died. She said she yelled for help and several nurses responded. I have no recollection of any of that. </span><span style="font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-Times New Roman","serif"font-family:";font-size:10.0pt;" ></span></p> <p class="Body1"><span style="font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi- font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-hansi-Arial Unicode MS"font-family:";font-size:10.0pt;" ><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>When I was "coming back" a nurse had pulled back on my wheelchair and I was looking at the ceiling. They put me on oxygen and were preparing an IV to give me fluid. Fortunately, by that time Patra was there and stopped the IV from being inserted. (I've had enough "pokes.") Patra knew I just needed to drink some water and I would be OK.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>(Unfortunately we are now somewhat "expert" at handling my "syncopal"episodes.) The nurse in charge agreed and Patra gave me water to drink. Soon I was back to normal. My new normal is not what it used to be!</span><span style="font-size:20.0pt; mso-bidi-Times New Roman","serif"font-family:";font-size:10.0pt;" ></span></p> <p class="Body1"><span style="font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi- font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-hansi-Arial Unicode MS"font-family:";font-size:10.0pt;" ><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>On Wednesday, my blood pressure problem started early in dialysis. My systolic <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">(upper number - "the phase of the heartbeat when the heart muscle contracts and pumps blood from the chambers into the arteries.")</i> blood pressure began falling very quickly. When we first noticed, it was 102, then 98, then 89. I think it bottomed out at 79. The nurses tilted my chair back, gave me fluids, and decreased the amount of fluid they were taking off. Soon I was feeling much better.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>My nephrologist talked to me about these episodes of "hypotension" and he adjusted my "dry weight." If I am still having problems, he will consider changing my blood pressure medications.</span><span style="font-size:20.0pt; mso-bidi-Times New Roman","serif"font-family:";font-size:10.0pt;" ></span></p> <p class="Body1"><span style="font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi- font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-hansi-Arial Unicode MS"font-family:";font-size:10.0pt;" ><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>In the story related above from the gospel of John, Jesus is traveling through Samaria and encounters a Samaritan woman. It was bold of Jesus to go through Samaria because at that time the Jewish people would "walk around" Samaria. It was even bolder for Jesus to engage a Samaritan woman in a conversation. As the Bible says above<i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">, "Jews do not associate with Samaritans."</i> The Samaritans worshipped in the Temple on Mount Gerizim and the Jews worshipped in the Temple in Jerusalem. </span><span style="font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-Times New Roman","serif"font-family:";font-size:10.0pt;" ></span></p> <p class="Body1"><span style="font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi- font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-hansi-Arial Unicode MS"font-family:";font-size:10.0pt;" ><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal">Jesus interrupted this woman's life.</b> I imagine she had made this trip for water on many occasions. As she walked along, I imagine she thought of the many chores she needed to accomplish that day. Then she meets Jesus and her plans are interrupted by His questions and prophetic utterances. Just as does today, He offered her eternal life by telling her he could give her water and she would never again thirst. From the Biblical account, it appears she didn't understand at that point what Jesus was really offering. She didn't want to be physically thirsty and have to keep coming back to draw water.</span><span style="font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-Times New Roman","serif"font-family:";font-size:10.0pt;" ></span></p> <p class="Body1"><span style="font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi- font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-hansi-Arial Unicode MS"font-family:";font-size:10.0pt;" ><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>When I was first diagnosed with this "nasty little disease,</span><span style="font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-family:"Arial Unicode MS","sans-serif";mso-ascii-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-Times New Roman"font-family:";font-size:10.0pt;" >”</span><span style="font-size:20.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-hansi-Arial Unicode MS"font-family:";font-size:10.0pt;" > I was told I would have problems with my fluid levels. Over the last two years, I have been instructed to drink more water and I have been instructed to refrain from drinking water or any fluids. For months, I had daily IVs of significant amounts of fluid and now I have fluid removed three times a week. I have never been more thirsty than when the doctors limited my fluids. I would eat ice chips, chew gum, and eat hard candy trying to calm the thirst. While I still drink more than I should, the situation has improved. </span></p> <p class="Body1"><span style="font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi- font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-hansi-Arial Unicode MS"font-family:";font-size:10.0pt;" ><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I think I know how that Samaritan woman felt. "Jesus, give me water so I don't thirst and in my case don't give me too much either."</span><span style="font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-Times New Roman","serif"font-family:";font-size:10.0pt;" ></span></p> <p class="Body1"><span style="font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi- font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-hansi-Arial Unicode MS"font-family:";font-size:10.0pt;" ><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>More importantly, <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal">Jesus interrupted my life</b> when I was a young boy and I received His gift of eternal life. He quenched the real thirst of my life and I will never be thirsty again-ever.</span><span style="font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-Times New Roman","serif"font-family:";font-size:10.0pt;" ></span></p> <p class="Body1"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-size: 20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"; mso-hansi-Arial Unicode MS"font-family:";font-size:10.0pt;" ><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I hope He interrupts your life.</span></b><span style="font-size:20.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-hansi-Arial Unicode MS"font-family:";font-size:10.0pt;" > He goes where you are, even to Samaria. We just need to accept His offer. He gave His life for you and me.</span><span style="font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-Times New Roman","serif"font-family:";font-size:10.0pt;" ></span></p> <p class="Body1" style="text-align:center" align="center"><span style="font-size: 20.0pt;mso-bidi-Times New Roman","serif"font-family:";font-size:10.0pt;" > </span></p> <p class="Body1"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal"><span style="font-size: 20.0pt;mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"; mso-hansi-Arial Unicode MS"font-family:";font-size:10.0pt;" >Dear God: I pray that we will be able to correct my blood pressure problems. Thank you for the staff and nurses and doctors that respond so quickly and work so hard in treating me. I thank you for your gift of eternal life. I pray that I will be faithful to you always. In Jesus' name, Amen.</span></i><i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal"><span style="font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-Times New Roman","serif"font-family:";font-size:10.0pt;" ></span></i></p> <p class="Body1"><span style="font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi- Times New Roman","serif"font-family:";font-size:10.0pt;" > </span></p> <p class="Body1"><span style="font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi- font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-hansi-Arial Unicode MS"font-family:";font-size:10.0pt;" >Until next Friday. God willing.</span><span style="font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi-Times New Roman","serif"font-family:";font-size:10.0pt;" ></span></p> <p class="Body1"><span style="font-size:20.0pt;mso-bidi- font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-hansi-Arial Unicode MS"font-family:";font-size:10.0pt;" >Bob</span><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-Times New Roman";mso-ansi-language: #0400;mso-fareast-language:#0400;mso-bidi-language:X-NONEfont-family:";font-size:10.0pt;color:windowtext;" lang="en-US" ></span></p>Jennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594401190299002611noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-971901603509912637.post-61049247957296207522012-01-27T07:39:00.004-05:002012-01-27T07:59:52.382-05:00Small Potatoes<span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;color:rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969);" >Friday, January 27, 2012</span><div style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background- font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;" >"Small potatoes"</span><br style="font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;color:rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969);"><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background- font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;" >From Bob</span><br style="font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;color:rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969);"><br style="font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;color:rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969);"><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background- font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;" >"So we're not giving up. How could we! Even though on the outside it often looks like things are falling apart on us, on the inside, where God is making new life, not a day goes by without his unfolding grace. <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">These hard times are small potatoes compared to the coming good times</span>, the lavish celebration prepared for us. There's far more here than meets the eye. The things we see now are here today, gone tomorrow. But the things we can't see now will last forever." (2 Corinthians 4:16-18 MSG)</span><br style="font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;color:rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969);"><br style="font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;color:rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969);"><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background- font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;" >"For our light affliction, <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">which is but for a moment</span>, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory (2 Corinthians 4:17 KJV)</span><br style="font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;color:rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969);"><br style="font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;color:rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969);"><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background- font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;" >The above scripture passages are taken from The Message, a paraphrase, and the King James Version, a translation. While it is important to note the difference between a paraphrase and a translation, I often look at verses in a paraphrase because I enjoy that interpretation of the verse. Here, I like the phrase <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">"These hard times are small potatoes compared to the coming good times..."</span></span><br style="font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;color:rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969);"><br style="font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;color:rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969);"><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background- font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;" >It is not always easy to think of the hard times as <span style="font-style: italic;">small potatoes</span>. It is easy to become frustrated or discouraged during hard times. This week a good friend passed away unexpectedly. Thankfully, because of her faith in Jesus, she is now enjoying the "lavish celebration" prepared for her. Another good friend was diagnosed with cancer. He will begin to walk the journey fortified by his faith, his family and his friends. My prayer list grows longer every week. Often, I forget that these are <span style="font-style: italic;">"small potatoes" </span>because I lose my focus. Recently I completed one year of dialysis. I did the calculation and I spent 624 hours last year hooked up to a dialysis machine. Why would I waste my time figuring that out? Because I become obsessed with the <span style="font-style: italic;">"small potatoes."</span></span><br style="font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;color:rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969);"><br style="font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;color:rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969);"><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background- font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;" >The last part of that passage says that the things we see now are here today, gone tomorrow. But the things we can't see now will last forever. Eternity, that's what we need to focus on! "I can only imagine" what eternity will be like.</span><br style="font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;color:rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969);"><br style="font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;color:rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969);"><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background- font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;" >I confess that it is often easier for me to understand that these are only momentary afflictions AFTER the moment has passed. It is not easy as we grieve the loss of a friend or loved one, or hear the doctor's diagnosis of cancer, to think in terms of light afflictions that will only last a moment. Our minds don't automatically go to the lavish celebration being prepared for us. But that is the promise of scripture!</span><br style="font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;color:rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969);"><br style="font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;color:rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969);"><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background- font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;" >This "nasty little disease" has lasted much longer than I thought it would. I have no idea how much longer I will live. Compared to eternity, this life on earth FOR EACH AND EVERYONE OF US is but a very brief moment. It is hard for me to say and even harder to live my life always believing it, but it is true - this "nasty little disease" is <span style="font-style: italic;">"small potatoes!"</span></span><br style="font-style: italic;font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;color:rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969);"><br style="font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;color:rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969);"><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background- font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;" >This week was a small setback for me personally. Those precious "little princesses" I wrote about last week, turned out to be "carriers" of the cold virus. Patra and I both caught it. Jenny, Emily (who made a quick trip to Clearwater) Adam and Sharon got it. In addition to Avery and Megan, Riley, Anderson and Andrew got it. Yep, most of the Buggs got the bug.</span><br style="font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;color:rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969);"><br style="font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;color:rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969);"><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background- font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;" >I basically just had a cough. But every time I coughed it irritated my low back. I did get an injection into my mid-back and I go back in several weeks for another injection into my </span><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background- font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;" >low back. My blood pressure dropped significantly at the end of dialysis on Wednesday so we had to use the wheelchair to leave the center. <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;"> "Small potatoes!"</span></span><br style="font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;color:rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969);"><br style="font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;color:rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969);"><i><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background- font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;" >Dear God: Thank you for the preparations you are making for your people for eternity. Sometimes life is difficult. It is painful and we often despair. Yet, we have the hope of eternity! Help me to keep my eyes focused on You. Be with my friends who are hurting and in need. In Jesus name, Amen.</span><br style="font-size: 13px;"></i><br style="font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;color:rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969);"><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background- font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;" >Until next Friday. God willing.</span><br style="font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;color:rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969);"><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-align: -webkit-auto; background- font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;" >Bob</span></div>Jennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594401190299002611noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-971901603509912637.post-60025408408897326162012-01-20T02:00:00.000-05:002012-01-20T02:00:05.666-05:00Exceedingly, Abundantly More<div><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><b>"Exceedingly, Abundantly More"</b></span></div><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); ">Friday, January 20, 2012</span><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); ">From Bob</span><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); ">Another good week! I could get use to this. I overdid it last Saturday and my doctor thinks I pulled a muscle. I've been resting a little more this week. Unfortunately we were unable to go to Gainesville last weekend. James (Emily's husband) was sick and so they had to postone Anderson's baby dedication.</span><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); ">I am enjoying my new walker. I "walked" into dialysis Monday surprising the nurses and staff. The problem is being able to walk out. Walking requires an acceptable standing blood pressure before you are allowed to leave. Because I still have "orthostatic hypotension" my blood pressure often drops dramatically when I stand up. Patra brings my wheelchair in case we can't get my blood pressure up. (Being in a wheelchair only requires a sitting blood pressure and I do better at that.) So far this week I've done OK (barely) with the standing blood pressure.</span><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); ">I will receive another epidural steroid injection next week. I am looking forward to that.</span><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); ">Ephesians 3:20-21 " Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen." I have been the recipient of God's promises in these verses. He has done "exceeding abundantly" above what I have asked or thought or even thought was possible.</span><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); ">Jenny's husband, David and I celebrated our birthdays on Monday night. It was a good family time. I told Patra later that night that I will always cherish the memories of the family laughing together. We were entertained by two princesses.</span><br class="Apple-interchange-newline"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQrbFZPvRoN6nMmiEO-vOhrdtpwSRxbRQcREyEaeGjncHMtbm6rhnjKp7oPrRb9yeHhLiYnA9RQeIgSLwQCkIXNYDIX-296ERjSEC_buhrR3hmzWZljhUu0xqBcGMavF1pRG7zlQKRLu_i/s400/100_0753.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5699531079973315746" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); text-decoration: underline; display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 225px; height: 400px; " /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS-npY01Ka-JP1_escsnxM2TMiuKnkDkMRXum2bxrTmQiQBtaAYlqqwtwYcwLHFnzdU27_AcaRCb-J-OZ6CN0IHoaAVwQxqXyz0948e4HkDHMnfHPzZGISicxttKP8qUNCOKp2iXUiwkHt/s1600/100_0755.JPG"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzGZ3dLrG9Mq5EjJo2FSUZ5xAG26eBP4tQyWVOlmT2GRsOpW5Mm2CvUwI5_us3k-bnN1uJXF1yEeOOHhWtkZLfD8b20lBknyqg6NAkfXpq-VKTcGjYDRmYp9mM6xTF9wWUBZGGn-T69Mu1/s1600/100_0770.JPG"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuF84kLLYbNlwn_FRd_-GsOxSuwCSGpgPodM4vxMFp0Q_0cjGX-pJco_OaLdof5mkJKBD33Mrm97EJ_oSd6LdOv7Ne1dWtU9S00gDSpaZMflnFQrWGVAFlJynYDTpgkuFL4wawzOne-NuK/s1600/100_0762.JPG"></a><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 182px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvQEBB7mYg-qjrJQ18sAlpIaVNh4lotltgwhs3_cnC36xtHIfO-Or0ppPkIRrRyMtQLO3SyrISPYA85qQ99xDq2aClPQC0Fv4vWhZiDEmQilfWFJMErc7O45HvsToOgguIBPy0g_tlnGbd/s400/100_0756.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5699531102701636354" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuF84kLLYbNlwn_FRd_-GsOxSuwCSGpgPodM4vxMFp0Q_0cjGX-pJco_OaLdof5mkJKBD33Mrm97EJ_oSd6LdOv7Ne1dWtU9S00gDSpaZMflnFQrWGVAFlJynYDTpgkuFL4wawzOne-NuK/s1600/100_0762.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 225px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuF84kLLYbNlwn_FRd_-GsOxSuwCSGpgPodM4vxMFp0Q_0cjGX-pJco_OaLdof5mkJKBD33Mrm97EJ_oSd6LdOv7Ne1dWtU9S00gDSpaZMflnFQrWGVAFlJynYDTpgkuFL4wawzOne-NuK/s400/100_0762.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5699531120859280642" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzGZ3dLrG9Mq5EjJo2FSUZ5xAG26eBP4tQyWVOlmT2GRsOpW5Mm2CvUwI5_us3k-bnN1uJXF1yEeOOHhWtkZLfD8b20lBknyqg6NAkfXpq-VKTcGjYDRmYp9mM6xTF9wWUBZGGn-T69Mu1/s1600/100_0770.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzGZ3dLrG9Mq5EjJo2FSUZ5xAG26eBP4tQyWVOlmT2GRsOpW5Mm2CvUwI5_us3k-bnN1uJXF1yEeOOHhWtkZLfD8b20lBknyqg6NAkfXpq-VKTcGjYDRmYp9mM6xTF9wWUBZGGn-T69Mu1/s400/100_0770.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5699531096666109138" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS-npY01Ka-JP1_escsnxM2TMiuKnkDkMRXum2bxrTmQiQBtaAYlqqwtwYcwLHFnzdU27_AcaRCb-J-OZ6CN0IHoaAVwQxqXyz0948e4HkDHMnfHPzZGISicxttKP8qUNCOKp2iXUiwkHt/s1600/100_0755.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 225px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS-npY01Ka-JP1_escsnxM2TMiuKnkDkMRXum2bxrTmQiQBtaAYlqqwtwYcwLHFnzdU27_AcaRCb-J-OZ6CN0IHoaAVwQxqXyz0948e4HkDHMnfHPzZGISicxttKP8qUNCOKp2iXUiwkHt/s400/100_0755.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5699531088000711378" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); ">Two years ago, when I first started this blog, I knew that I would need my faith, my family and my friends to encourage and sustain me. One of my nurses was talking to me on Wednesday and asked how people can make through life without faith in Christ. It made me think that it is not just people going through the "tall weeds" that need Jesus. As the song said many years ago - "People need the Lord."</span><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><i>"Dear God: Thank you for another good week. Your grace and goodness have exceeded anything I could have asked for. We have so many friends going through tough times. Several have been in the hospital. Several are undergoing chemotherapy or radiation. Several have recently lost loved ones. Father, may they all know your presence and comfort. Help me to be faithful to you."</i></span><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); ">Until next Friday. God willing.</span><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); ">Bob</span></div>Jennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594401190299002611noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-971901603509912637.post-34302591285204668302012-01-13T02:00:00.004-05:002012-01-13T02:00:09.339-05:00Happy Birthday!<div style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; "><span >Happy Birthday!</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; "><span >Friday, January 13, 2012</span></span></div><span ><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); ">From Bob</span></span><div><span ><br /></span></div><div><span ><b>(Note from Adam - I was in charge of posting the blog this week and noticed that Dad had failed to mention that today is his birthday! On behalf of all the children and grandchildren, we want to wish him a very happy 61st birthday. Several months ago, I would never have imagined being able to celebrate this birthday. We all love you very much!</b></span></div><div><div style="text-align: left;"><span ><b>-Jenny, David, Andrew, Megan, Emily, James, Austin, Anderson, Adam, Sharon, Avery, & Riley)</b></span></div><span ><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); ">Patra and I have enjoyed another great week. This week we have been able to go out to lunch and dinner. The other day, I asked Adam to take me to the grocery store. It was a "junk food junket." I bought donuts, chips, cookies, bagels and soft drinks. (Because of my concern for eating healthy, I also bought grapes.) It was great exercise - I was able to go up and down several aisles. Although I was pretty worn out by the time I got home, I'm thinking it's time for another grocery store trip! (I am a firm believer that you can never have enough "junk food.") Patra was finally able to breathe again when we walked back in the door.</span><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); ">We both know that the good days may end at any time, but we are living in the moment and not fearing what tomorrow may bring. We are both learning to trust in the goodness of God. He has never failed us.</span><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); ">I was able to go to Bible Study this week at church. I hadn't been in several months. It was wonderful to see so many friends and Ben did a great job teaching the class. We are blessed to have him teaching.</span><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); ">During dialysis this week, I have been reading about the Kings of Judah that governed the southern Kingdom after the death of Solomon. Some were righteous and some did evil in God's eyes. When Jehoshaphat became King, after the death of his father Asa, Jehoshaphat sought the Lord and the Lord was with him. One of the important things Jehoshaphat did was send out his princes, Levites, and priests to teach the Word of God. 2 Chronicles 17: 9 "And they taught in Judah, and had the book of the law of the Lord with them, and went about throughout all the cities of Judah, and taught the people." Jehoshaphat knew the importance of his people being familiar with the Word of God.</span><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); ">We need to know what the Bible says. 2 Timothy 2:15 instructs us to "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." The Bible provides a standard by which to live our lives, a ruler by which we can measure our lives. We live in a day where too many do "what is right in their own eyes." I am very cautious when discussing important issues and someone prefaces their comments with "I believe" or "I think." Does God have anything to say about the issue? Surely His opinion is important. It seems that we have minimized the importance of studying God's Word.</span><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); ">I'm getting some new "wheels" for my birthday. No, not the Porsche I have dreamed about. Patra ordered me a new "walker" this week. The wheels in front swivel. I've had some problems turning my present walker. I never thought I'd get excited about getting a new walker for a birthday present.</span></span><div><span ><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span ><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyEvS7SIBWSAqnnWt-ZJGHzr1T9JVxssSgUhVdZWBdysIrLuyPscFDGGweURQnulxkV47-ZHEubSNGO8Ce6eHtKwv9zZtMiVfvLSiKrA4ssX1G_C8qoJhZ2ggUYiF-ajTcNLWtvF_1yWcJ/s1600/porsche.jpg" style="text-align: left; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyEvS7SIBWSAqnnWt-ZJGHzr1T9JVxssSgUhVdZWBdysIrLuyPscFDGGweURQnulxkV47-ZHEubSNGO8Ce6eHtKwv9zZtMiVfvLSiKrA4ssX1G_C8qoJhZ2ggUYiF-ajTcNLWtvF_1yWcJ/s400/porsche.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5696933672014602514" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 171px; height: 222px; " /></a><span >(Bob's "Porsche")</span></span></div><span ><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); ">The wife of a man who was a leader in my men's Bible Study class passed away this week. I appreciate so much their testimony. Our prayers are with Bob, their daughter and extended family. Our prayer list gets longer and longer.</span><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); ">We are headed to Gainesville this weekend for a dedication service for Emily and James' son Anderson (7 months.) In our church, we believe the service is about the parents dedicating themselves to bring up their child to know Jesus and hopefully when he is older, Anderson will make a decision to accept the gospel (believing the truth of the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus.)</span><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><i style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); ">Dear God, thank you for another wonderful week. Thank you for another birthday. We pray for Bob and his family. We also continue to pray for so many friends with serious needs. God, thank You for Your written Word, the Bible. Help me to study it and to understand the truths and instructions it contains for living my life.</i><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); ">Until next Friday. God willing.</span><br style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); "><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); ">Bob</span></span></div></div>Jennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594401190299002611noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-971901603509912637.post-74204917730607684762012-01-06T07:19:00.008-05:002012-01-06T08:13:21.961-05:00Baffled Doctors<span style="text-align: -webkit-auto; font-size: 13px; ">Friday, January 6, 2012</span> <div><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto; font-size: 13px; ">From Bob</span> </div><div><br /></div><div><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto; font-size: 13px; ">I have begun 2012 feeling the best that I have in a LONG time. I woke up last Saturday morning and the pain in my back was so much better. (Thank you for your prayers!) The relief of the back pain means I can get out of my bed unassisted. </span><div><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto; font-size: 13px; "><br />I would love to be able to walk again. Since Saturday, I've been pushing my walker around our kitchen island, and am up to 3 laps. Patra cheers me on like I'm in a horse race..."and he's rounding the first lap..."</span> </div><div><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto; font-size: 13px; "><br /></span></div><div><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto; font-size: 13px; ">I felt so good on Tuesday that I asked Jenny to drive me to my office. It has been over a year since I'd been there, and I miss it. I sat at my desk and looked at my books and papers still laying on the desk... it felt good and so normal. We only stayed about 15 minutes, but it was great! Patra watched the grand kids and was a nervous wreck until we got back home. I did very well and really enjoyed the outing. When we got into the car to go home, Jenny asked me where I wanted to go next. I was pretty tired but I will take her up on the offer soon.<br /><br /></span> <span style="text-align: -webkit-auto; font-size: 13px; ">Sometimes success ( defined here as pain relief) interferes with our relationship with God. I remember so many times being in the emergency room and praying out loud "God, please help me." I would repeat that simple prayer over and over. During my hospitalizations, I thought often about my relationship with God. When I am in pain, "who can I turn to but the Lord."</span> <span style="text-align: -webkit-auto; font-size: 13px; ">Throughout the years I have known many men who lost their focus when they achieved success (defined here as accumulating lots of money or material things). Many partnerships have endured the hard times and fallen apart after becoming successful financially.</span> </div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-weight: bold; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">Do we really believe that we do not need God when we are successful? (Define success however you want to). Could it be that we may need a strong relationship with God even more when times are good?</span> </div><div> <span style="text-align: -webkit-auto; font-size: 13px; "><br />To those who have prayed that I would continue to "baffle" my doctors, thanks and please keep praying. There is no human explanation to why I am doing so well. My blood tests were perfect this week. A year ago, my albumin numbers (protein) were at 1.7 (the reason I couldn't stand without passing out)... today they are 4.0 - perfectly normal. </span></div><div><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto; font-size: 13px; "><br /></span></div><div><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto; font-size: 13px; "></span><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto; font-size: 13px; ">I am determined to remain close to God during this good time. First, I thank Him for the relief from pain. The Bible tells us in James 1:17 that "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.". I consider the way I am feeling this week a very good gift. Praise God from Whom all blessings flow.</span> </div><div><br /></div><div><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto; font-size: 13px; ">I must daily stay in God's Holy Word, His Bible. Hebrews 4:12 says "For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart."</span> <span style="text-align: -webkit-auto; font-size: 13px; ">I need to continue to spend time in prayer. Not simply for my own self but for the many friends who are not having good weeks.</span> </div><div><br /></div><div><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto; font-size: 13px; ">I had an Epidural Steroid Injection in my low back yesterday (Thursday.). I'm excited that it may give further relief.</span> </div><div><br /></div><div><i style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); ">"Dear God, I praise You for the relief I've felt this week. Thank you for answered prayers. Please draw me even closer to you in these good times. I know this week has been a good and perfect gift from You. Please bring comfort to those who are hurting and struggling this week."</i> </div><div><br /></div><div><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto; font-size: 13px; ">Until next Friday, </span></div><div><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto; font-size: 13px; ">God willing,</span> </div><div><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto; font-size: 13px; ">Bob</span></div></div>Jennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594401190299002611noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-971901603509912637.post-20341660479466955372011-12-30T02:00:00.001-05:002011-12-30T02:00:04.973-05:00Walls<div><span>"Walls"</span></div><span>December 30, 2011<br />From Bob<br /><br />We had a great Christmas. Below is a picture of each of our kid's families. I find myself looking at this picture several times a day. It always makes me smile.</span><div><span><br /></span></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZv7xujLKU-f2iLU7qnru4WMV5x6AmzolO9bYGl5UVCkZ6JdeIhiRbvLBDOP_gNX2xUi6ORL09Fj0HHbJKK4fgJIKNfenQYW2qlch1fsv7DYoUfnhnRD-fzLQ5hsoUdi-KtJBBPb0HR_uR/s1600/Slide1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 450px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZv7xujLKU-f2iLU7qnru4WMV5x6AmzolO9bYGl5UVCkZ6JdeIhiRbvLBDOP_gNX2xUi6ORL09Fj0HHbJKK4fgJIKNfenQYW2qlch1fsv7DYoUfnhnRD-fzLQ5hsoUdi-KtJBBPb0HR_uR/s400/Slide1.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5691763915992651234" /></a><div><span><br /><br />Happy New Year!<br />It is hard to believe that it is almost 2012. I haven't made any New Year's resolutions. For at least 20 years one of my resolutions was to try and lose weight. I wanted to lose about 10 pounds. Try as I might, I could not do it. When Patra and I came home from the Mayo Clinic last December, I began to lose weight without even trying. Be careful what you wish for. Within a short period of time, I lost about 75 pounds!<br /><br />The other night I went to take a shower and took my shirt off. I don't normally look at myself in the mirror but this night I did. The only word that can describe what I saw is "hideous." I looked like that guy in the comic book ads who got sand kicked in his face. I realize that I am substantially below my normal weight but I should just look skinny, not misshapen.<br /><br />Fortunately, looking good right now is not high on my priority list. There are however things that I need to block out of my mind. I believe that I have been mostly successful. Faith, family and friends continue to be my first line of defense.<br /><br />Philippians 4:8 "Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things."<br /><br />When you have a life-threatening and incurable disease, it is very important to guard your mind. If you are not careful, you can go to "dark places" and easily get depressed. It is not just those walking through the "tall weeds" who need to guard their minds.<br /><br />When I was first diagnosed with this "nasty little disease, I made a decision to construct "walls" in my mind. There are just things that I don't allow myself to think about because it would only make me feel worse. For example, I do not like to think about the plans I had for Patra and I for our retirement years. Once, I asked her if she wanted me to tell her those dreams. She responded by asking me if I needed to talk about those things, and I said no. She said that after 39 years of marriage, she knew my dreams... our dreams. Fortunately, for the most part, the walls have stood and I try not to think about tomorrow. We walk day by day and God has now given us two years.<br /><br />It is important to focus on the positive and not the negative. I work hard to keep negative thoughts out of my mind.<br /><br />Philippians 4:8 (quoted above) has always been a favorite verse of mine, even before I became sick. It tells us the things we should be thinking about. Things that are true, honest, just, pure, lovely and of good report. Use your mind to think about those things.<br /><br />Next week I will get my second epidural steroid injection (ESI). This time the doctor will inject my low back where the lumbar fractures are. I am excited about the possibility of some relief.<br /><br />I had been doing well until Wednesday at dialysis. I had not retained much fluid and so they were going to take off a small amount. I thought it would be a breeze. With about an hour to go, I suddenly became dizzy, my blood pressure dropped and I thought I was going to pass out. As always, the nurses were great - they gave me fluid and I was back to normal by the time I went off the machine.<br /><br /><i>Dear God, Thank you for my family and for our joyous time together this Christmas. I pray that I can continue to focus my mind only on the things are honest, just, pure, lovely and of good report. Please help me to keep the walls up in my mind that protect me from my negative thoughts. Thank you for friends who continue to encourage and pray for us.</i><br /><br />Until next Friday, God willing.<br />Bob</span></div>Jennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594401190299002611noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-971901603509912637.post-19242066531859926592011-12-23T02:00:00.001-05:002011-12-23T11:02:57.150-05:00Merry ChristmasFriday, December 23, 2011<br />From Bob<br /><br />MERRY CHRISTMAS!<br /><br />We really do wish each and every one of you a Merry Christmas. With all the different schedules, our family will be getting together tonight (Friday) for dinner and then we will exchange gifts. I love Christmas.<br /><br />During dialysis this week, I spent a lot of time listening to Christmas hymns and carols. The story of Christmas is one of those amazing, mysterious, miraculous acts of God. God became flesh and dwelt among us. As I have "pondered all these things" in my own heart this week, I have thought of friends and acquaintances who have left Jesus in the manger. This beautiful story of the baby born in the manger has not ended. We do know that He grew up in favor with God and man. His message of peace and hope was met with a brutal death by crucifixion and He was buried in a borrowed tomb. Jesus overcame death and was resurrected. He is presently in heaven but will someday come to earth again, not as a baby, but as the Lord of Lords and King of Kings.<br /><br />On Tuesday, I had an MRI of my spine. I was instructed to lay on my back on a<br />table that couldn't have been more than 6 inches wide made out of solid rock. Even with my significant loss of weight, it seemed like there was more of me off the table than on the table. Who thought it would be a good idea to have someone with a broken back lay on a skinny table, hard as a rock, and not move for 45 minutes?<br /><br />As we were going into the room, Patra was told to keep my wheelchair outside the door for fear that the powerful magnets might suck the wheelchair into the machine. Am I the only person that thinks it's wrong that they won't let my wheelchair anywhere near this machine and yet they slide me INTO the middle of the powerful magnets.<br /><br />This was by far the loudest MRI machine I have ever been in. When it was done, I told the nurses I felt like I had front row seats at a rock concert with a very bad drummer. To keep my mind occupied, I tried to keep beat with the MRI machine by singing Christmas carols. Only thing I could come up with was " Grandpa got run over by a " nasty little disease."<br /><br />As they were about to slide the table into the machine, I was handed a "panic button." "PANIC BUTTON - REALLY? How many people panic that we need to have a "PANIC BUTTON?" Couldn't you come up with a better name, like "call button."<br /><br />Received the results from the MRI. It showed compression fractures at T-10 and T-12. It also showed that I have fractured every one of my lumbar vertebrae. Yep, it showed fractures to L-1, L-2, L-3, L-4 and L-5. For " good" measure, it also showed a disc bulge at L-5- S-1.<br /><br />Unfortunately, the doctor we consulted with Thursday afternoon did not feel that I was a candidate for kyphoplasty (where cement is inserted to stabilize the bone). We will continue with the epidural steroid injections.<br /><br />Joy to the world, the Lord is come. Let earth receive her King.<br />This Christmas may we all give praise to God for the greatest gift ever given!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3NCKlZg6_95190Bo1YzXLgk5FghJ27ChuS571gq1cZmPLdOtNBN_FteuJNaHEOSW-clFBq7rL1YROk86j4czVlLbTPqI2ppFq92pkjxLWf-4MkDMmPZZkFIWlfBaELeTPKcgQ0I4rUAjj/s1600/Presentation-2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 450px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3NCKlZg6_95190Bo1YzXLgk5FghJ27ChuS571gq1cZmPLdOtNBN_FteuJNaHEOSW-clFBq7rL1YROk86j4czVlLbTPqI2ppFq92pkjxLWf-4MkDMmPZZkFIWlfBaELeTPKcgQ0I4rUAjj/s400/Presentation-2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5689146684377137042" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Dear God: Thank you for giving us Jesus. May we celebrate His birth by bringing you our sacrifice of praise. Please be with all of our friends who are walking through the "tall weeds." May they feel your presence in a special way. In Jesus' name, Amen.</span><br /><br />Until next Friday. God willing.<br />BobJennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594401190299002611noreply@blogger.com9