Wow, I can't believe it has been over three weeks since I posted ANYTHING. I sometime wonder if anybody still looks at this. Then I look at the replies and I realize who still loves me! YES, this still makes me feel good to know people still are looking.
All seems to be going great everyday. It seems that life is so busy most of the time, I really forget who's still looking...
I have been going to Church with Megan the last two weeks and it has done two things for me. I realize again how important God is in my life. Even though I speak to him regularly, in Church is a good feeling. This Church she is trying is a little too energetic for me. I LOVE the preacher, but the group around the Church is TOO INVOLVED for me. I don't need a service that so many FEEL LIKE they need to speak out. I think confused or worried people are that way. I am sorry if you feel this is a necessary part of the service. I don't need the guy in front of me talking out loud and raising his hand the whole service for me to feel like I am communicating with God. HE is in me and HE is a part of me. That I know and That I appreciate! I love Him greatly for helping me out of the WHOLE I was in and I thank him for helping my family and friends overcome these obstacles. I don't think I would be here if He had not wanted me to still be here. My Love for Him could not be any greater than it already was, but my appreciation for Him HAS grown. YES, I thank him every day and I always will, but to see people in Church act like many of these people do is not what I need to see. I AM SORRY if this bothers or offends you. What I NEED and what THEY need is different.
Life is going great for me. I am a big user of FACEBOOK right now because I am coming up on my school reunion and many people in my class enjoy this. My girls know this better than I do, but I can communicate with people I have not seen in years (some of them I remember and some I don't). Can I lie and say this is my 20th reunion coming up? I would not be able to sleep tonight like that. Does 25 sound better? YES, that's a lie, too. It's kind of hard to say I am PROUD to have a 26 year old Daughter and I did not know Betty when I was in High School. Do the math. Is 25 possible? Tell me if it is... YES, this will be 30 years and YES I am still here to appreciate it! 2 years ago, I would have doubted it. Thank You GOD for allowing me to be here to enjoy SPOILING Max. Yes, I do it every chance I get! And , yes, I love every SINGLE minute of it!
I love you all so much and I am sorry I have not updated sooner.
If you have a chance, look at FACEBOOK. Megan Putonti (Yes, she is still and ALWAYS will be my Daughter) has pictures of Max on there and Tiffaney Bradley has some, too. Breanna has a spot on there, too.
Go back to you nap. I am sorry if I interrupted it in anyway.
Love you all always,
Mark 7/19/08
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
June 30 and still around to update this
Another month has come and gone. All of life is great! Megan is living close to us and I get to see Maxwell quite regularly. This will continue until Megan tells me I come by too often. Only time will tell on this.
We really enjoyed the family reunion. Good to see these family members and talk about old times. They always tell stories that I don't know but I still enjoy listening to them. I always here something about how one of them carried me around. One of the benefits of being the youngest is they remember things that I was too young for. I was asked what I could remember about my Grandpa and I could not come up with anything. I was only 2 years old when he died and 12 years old when Granny died. I remember many things about her and about times when she was still here. I don't know if they carried me because they wanted to or because they had to, but I have always felt the love they all have for me.
I had an interesting thing happen to me today. A lady I know from work called me to talk. She was scared to ask, but wanted to talk in a personal mode. She asked about my recovery, how it went and how I dealt with it. I started talking but did not want to give too many details without knowing what was causing all of this thinking. It turns out, her Dad was injured by a bull when they were in a pen. It evidently kicked him several times real hard. It shattered his spine and the doctors had to put pins in it. She wanted to know so she would know what was ahead and how to deal with it. We talked for quite a while and I felt better about talking once I knew WHY. I tried to explain to her the ups and downs he would experience. Some days he will be up and the next he may be down. Sometimes, both in the same day. I tried to tell her the most important part was to keep his experience up. Once someone like that gets down, the improvements slow down. I really think the mind has a lot to do with it. I also told her that my HARD-HEADEDNESS helped me a lot because when they told me something, I just wanted to prove them wrong. When they said one year in a chair, I just wanted to show them that was not for me. I have people ask me a lot why I am always in such a good mood. I blame this on God. He is the ONE that helped me pull through all of this pain and disappointments and helped me learn to enjoy EVERY DAY.
Does anyone but me remember what next Tuesday is? It is a Holiday for me. 2 years are gone but I still wake up breathing every day. Thank you God for making 7/7/07 a special day for me and all my family and friends.
Yes, it has been over two weeks since I wrote here but I still check it every few days to see if there are any comments added. Several people at the reunion told me they still read it but rarely add any comments. My next event is my school reunion. It is on 8/8/09 and I am really looking forward to this day.
My love to you all.
Mark 6/30/09
We really enjoyed the family reunion. Good to see these family members and talk about old times. They always tell stories that I don't know but I still enjoy listening to them. I always here something about how one of them carried me around. One of the benefits of being the youngest is they remember things that I was too young for. I was asked what I could remember about my Grandpa and I could not come up with anything. I was only 2 years old when he died and 12 years old when Granny died. I remember many things about her and about times when she was still here. I don't know if they carried me because they wanted to or because they had to, but I have always felt the love they all have for me.
I had an interesting thing happen to me today. A lady I know from work called me to talk. She was scared to ask, but wanted to talk in a personal mode. She asked about my recovery, how it went and how I dealt with it. I started talking but did not want to give too many details without knowing what was causing all of this thinking. It turns out, her Dad was injured by a bull when they were in a pen. It evidently kicked him several times real hard. It shattered his spine and the doctors had to put pins in it. She wanted to know so she would know what was ahead and how to deal with it. We talked for quite a while and I felt better about talking once I knew WHY. I tried to explain to her the ups and downs he would experience. Some days he will be up and the next he may be down. Sometimes, both in the same day. I tried to tell her the most important part was to keep his experience up. Once someone like that gets down, the improvements slow down. I really think the mind has a lot to do with it. I also told her that my HARD-HEADEDNESS helped me a lot because when they told me something, I just wanted to prove them wrong. When they said one year in a chair, I just wanted to show them that was not for me. I have people ask me a lot why I am always in such a good mood. I blame this on God. He is the ONE that helped me pull through all of this pain and disappointments and helped me learn to enjoy EVERY DAY.
Does anyone but me remember what next Tuesday is? It is a Holiday for me. 2 years are gone but I still wake up breathing every day. Thank you God for making 7/7/07 a special day for me and all my family and friends.
Yes, it has been over two weeks since I wrote here but I still check it every few days to see if there are any comments added. Several people at the reunion told me they still read it but rarely add any comments. My next event is my school reunion. It is on 8/8/09 and I am really looking forward to this day.
My love to you all.
Mark 6/30/09
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Another week has flown by & I am still here, 6/13/09
Well another week has flown by and here I am to tell you about it. Megan closed on their house yesterday so I had to spend my morning over helping everything get moved. They had boxed it all up and hired a couple of guys to move it all. Matt and I had to move the other things, like freezer, tool boxes and stuff in the garage. I am so glad I can help, but it is still not an easy task. Lifting things still get to me but I think that is why she hired these two guys. Before all of this, I would not let this happen, but now I realize what is best for me. Any way, my Grandson is going to be closer to us and Betty and I are just as happy as possible. Life is a great thing.
Work next week is going to be pretty severe. We have a Turnaround starting on Monday. These 9 or 10 hours days will become 12 hours long for the next two weeks. I can only hope everything we find is something we can deal with. I will be talking with many vendors over this time frame, but most of them enjoy hearing from me. Too many years of talking to them several times a week and getting to know them like I did always is a blessing. I learned many years ago, treat someone as you would want to be treated and the respect and trust you get back is well worth it. I know we all make mistakes from time to time, but deal with it and move on. That is what life is all about!
My family reunion comes up in two weeks and I am looking forward to seeing all of my kinfolks even though they pick on me because I am the youngest of the Grandkids. Now, this is one of those good things and they can make fun of me all they want. I still love them and appreciate them for being there for me and my family when I was down and almost out.
School reunion come up in about two months and I am looking forward to that, too. I have started communicating with several of these people and it brings up some very pleasant memories. Another opportunity for me to tell God how much I appreciate Him for helping me still be here !
My love to you all. Have a nice SAFE summer.
Mark 6/13/09
Work next week is going to be pretty severe. We have a Turnaround starting on Monday. These 9 or 10 hours days will become 12 hours long for the next two weeks. I can only hope everything we find is something we can deal with. I will be talking with many vendors over this time frame, but most of them enjoy hearing from me. Too many years of talking to them several times a week and getting to know them like I did always is a blessing. I learned many years ago, treat someone as you would want to be treated and the respect and trust you get back is well worth it. I know we all make mistakes from time to time, but deal with it and move on. That is what life is all about!
My family reunion comes up in two weeks and I am looking forward to seeing all of my kinfolks even though they pick on me because I am the youngest of the Grandkids. Now, this is one of those good things and they can make fun of me all they want. I still love them and appreciate them for being there for me and my family when I was down and almost out.
School reunion come up in about two months and I am looking forward to that, too. I have started communicating with several of these people and it brings up some very pleasant memories. Another opportunity for me to tell God how much I appreciate Him for helping me still be here !
My love to you all. Have a nice SAFE summer.
Mark 6/13/09
Sunday, June 7, 2009
Sunday, June 7 and still around
Yes, another week has flown by. School is out for most people and it is going to be a wonderful summer. Megan is supposed to close on her new house next Friday and is moving in on Saturday. I am so excited to have her and her family so close to us. Maxwell may be able to spend more time at my house! I am very excited about this. I took two days of vacation next week so I can spend some time with him. I am there on Monday and Tuesday. We will enjoy our time together. I will love on him and he will love on me. Life is such a wonderful experience.
I am supposed to find out something at work next week and am hoping for the best. Some things are just going to come out and we have to live with these things. All I know is that my work days are longer now than they were a year ago but I am still there right now. Smile and move forward.
I have a family reunion coming up in a few weeks that I am looking forward to. I always enjoy seeing my family and spending time with them, We have a room for Friday and Saturday night. We plan on getting there pretty early on Friday. We end up doing some "shopping" with several cousins. There are some antique stores there that are great to look through. Matt always hates this time and I know I would have when I was that age.
Also have a school reunion scheduled in August. I am also looking forward to seeing these people too. I really hope most of them don't know about my accident because I would rather not discuss it unless they want to know. If they ask questions about it, I don't mind sharing this information, but hate to be the one to bring it up. I sure don't want to pour this on someone that doesn't know. Many of these people are friends and they realize what me and my family went through. People tried to keep people informed of where I was and how I was doing.
Life is wonderful and I will enjoy my two days with Maxwell. I will try real hard not to spoil him too much but you know how Grandpa's are about these type of things.
Thanks for being one of those people that still checks on me here. I love you all so much. Betty and I went to the hospital last night to see one of Betty's friends whose son was hurt in a motorcycle accident. Seeing what they are going through only reminded me of what Betty had to deal with when I was there. I am always thankful for what God did for me and for us!
Mark 6/7/09
I am supposed to find out something at work next week and am hoping for the best. Some things are just going to come out and we have to live with these things. All I know is that my work days are longer now than they were a year ago but I am still there right now. Smile and move forward.
I have a family reunion coming up in a few weeks that I am looking forward to. I always enjoy seeing my family and spending time with them, We have a room for Friday and Saturday night. We plan on getting there pretty early on Friday. We end up doing some "shopping" with several cousins. There are some antique stores there that are great to look through. Matt always hates this time and I know I would have when I was that age.
Also have a school reunion scheduled in August. I am also looking forward to seeing these people too. I really hope most of them don't know about my accident because I would rather not discuss it unless they want to know. If they ask questions about it, I don't mind sharing this information, but hate to be the one to bring it up. I sure don't want to pour this on someone that doesn't know. Many of these people are friends and they realize what me and my family went through. People tried to keep people informed of where I was and how I was doing.
Life is wonderful and I will enjoy my two days with Maxwell. I will try real hard not to spoil him too much but you know how Grandpa's are about these type of things.
Thanks for being one of those people that still checks on me here. I love you all so much. Betty and I went to the hospital last night to see one of Betty's friends whose son was hurt in a motorcycle accident. Seeing what they are going through only reminded me of what Betty had to deal with when I was there. I am always thankful for what God did for me and for us!
Mark 6/7/09
Saturday, May 30, 2009
May 30 and still updating
Another week has gone by and summer will be on us REAL soon. I got to spend the day with Maxwell last Friday while Megan went over to help with the graduation ceremony and activities. What a day we had. It is such an exciting thing to spend the day with someone that NEEDS you to be there. I love every minute of the day! And yesterday, Megan had come to Crosby to pay her new daycare funds and while she was on this side of town, called me to meet me for lunch. We had a nice quiet time and I got to love on Maxwell some more!
Work is an interesting thing right now. With all the changes that my company is going through right now, we are all just thankful we are still there. Rumor is that next week they will be deciding who is still needed and what cuts are going to be made. I can only hope and pray that they still need me. We hear there will be major changes as to how we do things around there, but we just have to hope for the best. Only time will tell us for sure but hopefully, God will help us through these times!
Betty is telling me many times how much I have changed since my accident. She is still convinced that my mind is not like it used to be. I do notice some things are different and I don't think as well as I used to but she says it's more than just that. She also says that others have noticed it, too. Hopefully, God will help me through these times and all will be OK. This may be a challenge He set up for me, too. It's funny that everyone else sees it, but I don't notice it.
I had a friend at work this last week that asked me how I was doing and was I at 100%. We talked a little about it but I did not go into many details about it. I have pains every day but they will always be there and I have adjusted to it. Are they major items? Not any more! I pay a lot more attention to certain things that I did not have to before. Walking is one of those things. I look at the ground more because something that is not smooth can cause major issues. Lift something heavy is always going to be an issue, too. If the item is already up and I don't have to bend to get it, I do much better. I still can't walk well while carrying something with weight. This still makes me limp and probably always will. I noticed that riding a bicycle is easier now than it was 6 months ago. It used to hurt to get my leg over the seat, but that has passed. Bumps in the road still hurt and probably will for quite a while. The doctor told me that a broken tailbone will always be a concern, but I deal with this, too.
It is just one of those funny things about life. As we get older, certain things bother us more than they used to, but most of the time these issues come on pretty slowly. Mine all come at one time so getting used to them was an adjustment in life and He helped me deal with it. It is OK because my friends, family and God all pulled together to get me where I am today. I am here to watch my Grandson go up and spoil him every time I can.
A great amount of love goes out to each of you and thanks for helping me pull through this. Smile every day because God loves each and every one of us and makes being here today a wonderful thing!
Mark 5/30/09
Work is an interesting thing right now. With all the changes that my company is going through right now, we are all just thankful we are still there. Rumor is that next week they will be deciding who is still needed and what cuts are going to be made. I can only hope and pray that they still need me. We hear there will be major changes as to how we do things around there, but we just have to hope for the best. Only time will tell us for sure but hopefully, God will help us through these times!
Betty is telling me many times how much I have changed since my accident. She is still convinced that my mind is not like it used to be. I do notice some things are different and I don't think as well as I used to but she says it's more than just that. She also says that others have noticed it, too. Hopefully, God will help me through these times and all will be OK. This may be a challenge He set up for me, too. It's funny that everyone else sees it, but I don't notice it.
I had a friend at work this last week that asked me how I was doing and was I at 100%. We talked a little about it but I did not go into many details about it. I have pains every day but they will always be there and I have adjusted to it. Are they major items? Not any more! I pay a lot more attention to certain things that I did not have to before. Walking is one of those things. I look at the ground more because something that is not smooth can cause major issues. Lift something heavy is always going to be an issue, too. If the item is already up and I don't have to bend to get it, I do much better. I still can't walk well while carrying something with weight. This still makes me limp and probably always will. I noticed that riding a bicycle is easier now than it was 6 months ago. It used to hurt to get my leg over the seat, but that has passed. Bumps in the road still hurt and probably will for quite a while. The doctor told me that a broken tailbone will always be a concern, but I deal with this, too.
It is just one of those funny things about life. As we get older, certain things bother us more than they used to, but most of the time these issues come on pretty slowly. Mine all come at one time so getting used to them was an adjustment in life and He helped me deal with it. It is OK because my friends, family and God all pulled together to get me where I am today. I am here to watch my Grandson go up and spoil him every time I can.
A great amount of love goes out to each of you and thanks for helping me pull through this. Smile every day because God loves each and every one of us and makes being here today a wonderful thing!
Mark 5/30/09
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Tuesday, May 19 and still writing
What an exciting week around here. I went to see my parents on Saturday and spent some time enjoying them. Matt stayed with Tiffaney so they could go see the new Star Trek movie. Both loved it! I did too by NOT HAVING to go... Enjoyed seeing my parents and enjoying the time with them doing little of nothing. We talked and visited about many things. I got to share with them that I have quit smoking. They were very happy for me and hope I can do it for good this time. It has been 2 weeks so far!
Betty, Breanna, Megan and Maxwell are in Florida right now. My niece had a "surprise" birthday party and Betty "surprised" all of them by showing up. She only told our nephew James that she was coming and he did a great job of keeping it quiet. Betty said everyone was surprised and they all got to see Maxwell, too. I know this was a quick trip but you have to take these adventures whenever you can. She made several things for Matt and me to eat off of while they were gone and I don't think we have starved yet so all is great. I think they are leaving tomorrow to come back but with Maxwell with them, we probably won't see them until Thursday. I know the whole group there was happy to see all of them. Life is a wonderful thing and you have to enjoy every minute of it.
While I was at my parents, I got poison ivy AGAIN. It seems like it is waiting for me when I get there. Sad part is I did not know I had it until Monday. Sunday night while I was asleep, my body went on it's on course and spread it around a little bit. That is OK because I can deal with it. God helps me learn a lot about life is some strange ways and I have to deal with it the best I can.
I spoke with a vendor at work today. He saw my family pictures in my office and got on the subject of family. He told me he got married in 1983 and loves seeing people that has one of those pleasant experience with their partner. These kind of things mean a lot to many of us. It is good to talk to someone like this that enjoys their spouse as much as I enjoy mine. We don't always see things eye to eye, but you just have to learn to accept certain things and enjoy life together.
I know I missed the time to see many people I love dearly in Florida and I remember Marlies from when she was about 12 or so and Christine was probably 10. It is amazing to see what wonderful people they have grown in to. I knew I told Betty the first time we were there that when we had kids, I wanted them to be just like these two. I think we did a great job of this because my girls have the same attitude about life and people as these two did. Another wonderful thing about life and family!
I am so glad that God gave me help to still be here and to enjoy every moment that I have here. When I get to talking about my situation, how I was, where I was and what I went through, I can only say Thank You to everyone who prayed for me and helped my family deal with these hard times. On one hand, it seems like this was a lifetime ago and on the other, it seems like yesterday. I am coming up really quickly on my "2 year" anniversary. Do I dread this? Absolutely not. I wish it did not happen, but feeling these pains everyday reminds me just how lucky I am.
I love you all so much and I am glad to be here to tell everyone about life. God has helped me appreciate every day and I thank Him so much for this.
Mark 5/19/09 and starting to warm up around here...
Betty, Breanna, Megan and Maxwell are in Florida right now. My niece had a "surprise" birthday party and Betty "surprised" all of them by showing up. She only told our nephew James that she was coming and he did a great job of keeping it quiet. Betty said everyone was surprised and they all got to see Maxwell, too. I know this was a quick trip but you have to take these adventures whenever you can. She made several things for Matt and me to eat off of while they were gone and I don't think we have starved yet so all is great. I think they are leaving tomorrow to come back but with Maxwell with them, we probably won't see them until Thursday. I know the whole group there was happy to see all of them. Life is a wonderful thing and you have to enjoy every minute of it.
While I was at my parents, I got poison ivy AGAIN. It seems like it is waiting for me when I get there. Sad part is I did not know I had it until Monday. Sunday night while I was asleep, my body went on it's on course and spread it around a little bit. That is OK because I can deal with it. God helps me learn a lot about life is some strange ways and I have to deal with it the best I can.
I spoke with a vendor at work today. He saw my family pictures in my office and got on the subject of family. He told me he got married in 1983 and loves seeing people that has one of those pleasant experience with their partner. These kind of things mean a lot to many of us. It is good to talk to someone like this that enjoys their spouse as much as I enjoy mine. We don't always see things eye to eye, but you just have to learn to accept certain things and enjoy life together.
I know I missed the time to see many people I love dearly in Florida and I remember Marlies from when she was about 12 or so and Christine was probably 10. It is amazing to see what wonderful people they have grown in to. I knew I told Betty the first time we were there that when we had kids, I wanted them to be just like these two. I think we did a great job of this because my girls have the same attitude about life and people as these two did. Another wonderful thing about life and family!
I am so glad that God gave me help to still be here and to enjoy every moment that I have here. When I get to talking about my situation, how I was, where I was and what I went through, I can only say Thank You to everyone who prayed for me and helped my family deal with these hard times. On one hand, it seems like this was a lifetime ago and on the other, it seems like yesterday. I am coming up really quickly on my "2 year" anniversary. Do I dread this? Absolutely not. I wish it did not happen, but feeling these pains everyday reminds me just how lucky I am.
I love you all so much and I am glad to be here to tell everyone about life. God has helped me appreciate every day and I thank Him so much for this.
Mark 5/19/09 and starting to warm up around here...
Monday, May 11, 2009
Monday, May 11 and still here
Another week has gone by and life is great. Most people have come to hate Mondays but it is just another happy day for me. I had someone at work today ask me why I was in such a good mood on a MONDAY. The answer today is the same as every other day. I woke up breathing on my own and VERY happy about it. I had to babysit my Grandson last Thursday while Megan and Matt had to meet their inspector for their new house. He found several items that need to be addressed but that is why the inspector goes over everything. You have two kinds of inspectors like you have two types of painters or doctors or other job holders. Usually, you have one that is very thorough and reasonably priced or you have one that does as little as he can and charges more. Thank goodness they found a good one that cares. This took quite a while to go over things but I did not mind a little more spoil time! They made some recommendations back to the builder and had to wait for a reply. They accepted this request to pay ALL closing costs instead of a limit they suggested at first and they agreed to get another inspector at THEIR cost to re-evaluate these things. If this one finds the same issues, they will address them. They SUGGESTED using one they had used before but Matt said that they could not use theirs because he know what "friends" can do for each other.
The girls were all here yesterday to see their Mom on Mother's Day. Yes, I know, more time with my Grandson. My, how they PUNISH me!!! Just roll me in the briar patch again, anytime... Brea and Tiff really enjoyed their time with him, too. Life is such a wonderful thing and it was great to spend time as a family again. Distance causes some issues with this, but LOVE does bring you back together.
Work is really getting interesting right now. We hear "rumors" about how things will be and how things will "change" for all of us. The rumor we are hearing is that on Thursday, we will find out more about who stays and who doesn't. Yes, it is a rumor, but a decision is supposed to be made by the end of next week, so this Thursday is realistic. Four people in our group have signed up to leave "voluntarily" and the rest are curious how many there will be in the total. They changed our work hours to a nine hour day and work 8 every other Friday. One would think shorter hours would be great, but my "shorter" days are longer most of the time. I start earlier so that everything that needs to be done can get done, and then when it is time to go home, I have to finish several things in progress. These 9 hour days are 10 or more hours long and I still have to be there every other Friday. I think the only ones enjoying these shorter hours are the four that are on the "list". They leave on time because they don't have to worry about being listed as non-productive. The rest of us DO worry about that. Being on certain lists is not a good thing sometimes. All we can do is our best and hope somebody notices it and appreciates it.
I wanted to go see my parents last weekend but they were out of town to go camping. The second week-end of the month is the time for them but that is when Mother's Day was scheduled. I guess Hallmark did not realize when their group goes camping. I am hoping to get there this week-end, but I have not told them this, yet. I have most of the work on the trailer finished up with some small items left. The porch is all finished and looks pretty good. I think Tiff likes it, but she is like me and probably hasn't noticed it all, yet. The back steps need to be made but I can make them here and take them over and put them in place. The trim around the new door is still needed and the metal pieces for the door knob and lock need to be put on.
As you can tell, life is a wonderful thing that we are all here to enjoy. Smile and appreciate each day for the wonderful things it gives us. All we can do is make the most of everything we have and enjoy EVERY SINGLE MINUTE that God gives us. We are still here because He allows us more time. I thank Him for that EVERY day! Smile for me and love yourself because if you don't, how can others?
Mark 5/11/09
The girls were all here yesterday to see their Mom on Mother's Day. Yes, I know, more time with my Grandson. My, how they PUNISH me!!! Just roll me in the briar patch again, anytime... Brea and Tiff really enjoyed their time with him, too. Life is such a wonderful thing and it was great to spend time as a family again. Distance causes some issues with this, but LOVE does bring you back together.
Work is really getting interesting right now. We hear "rumors" about how things will be and how things will "change" for all of us. The rumor we are hearing is that on Thursday, we will find out more about who stays and who doesn't. Yes, it is a rumor, but a decision is supposed to be made by the end of next week, so this Thursday is realistic. Four people in our group have signed up to leave "voluntarily" and the rest are curious how many there will be in the total. They changed our work hours to a nine hour day and work 8 every other Friday. One would think shorter hours would be great, but my "shorter" days are longer most of the time. I start earlier so that everything that needs to be done can get done, and then when it is time to go home, I have to finish several things in progress. These 9 hour days are 10 or more hours long and I still have to be there every other Friday. I think the only ones enjoying these shorter hours are the four that are on the "list". They leave on time because they don't have to worry about being listed as non-productive. The rest of us DO worry about that. Being on certain lists is not a good thing sometimes. All we can do is our best and hope somebody notices it and appreciates it.
I wanted to go see my parents last weekend but they were out of town to go camping. The second week-end of the month is the time for them but that is when Mother's Day was scheduled. I guess Hallmark did not realize when their group goes camping. I am hoping to get there this week-end, but I have not told them this, yet. I have most of the work on the trailer finished up with some small items left. The porch is all finished and looks pretty good. I think Tiff likes it, but she is like me and probably hasn't noticed it all, yet. The back steps need to be made but I can make them here and take them over and put them in place. The trim around the new door is still needed and the metal pieces for the door knob and lock need to be put on.
As you can tell, life is a wonderful thing that we are all here to enjoy. Smile and appreciate each day for the wonderful things it gives us. All we can do is make the most of everything we have and enjoy EVERY SINGLE MINUTE that God gives us. We are still here because He allows us more time. I thank Him for that EVERY day! Smile for me and love yourself because if you don't, how can others?
Mark 5/11/09
Monday, May 4, 2009
Monday, May 4, and still around
Wow, time has flown by and I am still here to write an update. Life is great. Just smile and move forward. I had to babysit on Saturday while Megan and Matt looked at houses. She called in the afternoon and said she was running late and wanted to know if I needed her to come get Maxwell. HELLO! No, he was fine. It was my time to enjoy every minute so he could stay as long as he needed to. If this wasn't great enough, they found a house that they liked and put in a bid on it. She found out today that it was accepted! Wow, now my daughter, my favorite son-in-law and my grandson will be living in Crosby! I am so excited about this! Do I mind? Not even a little bit. I get to see Maxwell more and get to babysit more, too. What a time I will make of this. I thank God for keeping me here to enjoy these times.
I have not entered any data lately, so I thought I might put something here. I noticed there were no responses to my last posting. If that means nobody is reading it, I am OK with that. If someone reads and does not respond, I am OK with that, too. I ran in to someone that I had not seen in a while the other day and he asked how I was doing. As usual, I said I am good. He asked if I was 100% and I told him I was probably as close to it as I will ever be and I can live with dealing with pains. It has kind of grown on me and that all right with me. I know certain things still hurt and I TRY not to do these things. Sometimes, natural instincts kick in and I do it without thinking. Then, I feel the pains. Reaching for something still gets my right shoulder to hurt especially if its got some weight to it. Getting up from sitting on the ground is still tough, too. That's OK because they told me at the hospital that this was something I could not do. I put weight on my right knee the other day and it felt like someone hit me with a bat. Old habits die hard. I have to try to put my LEFT knee down instead. This is a hard thing to do since I am not used to it yet.
We have a family reunion coming up next month. I always get excited about going even though they all pick on me. I am not sure if they pick on me because I am the youngest Grandchild or because they love me so much. Really, I don't care why because I feel all the love. I used to hate to go to this reunion as a kid even though we always enjoyed it. I did not get to see my cousins often enough to really care back then. As a teen, the last thing you wanted was something YOUR PARENTS wanted you to do! Now, I look forward to these events. Yes, I still hear stories about how they carried me around and how they took care of me. That's OK because the learning I got from them has taught me how to be a better person. I still talk to some of them pretty regularly by e-mail. Just getting a note from them makes my day brighter. So, see, life is GREAT and I am still here, breathing on my own. I can deal with this!
Make the most of your day. Tell someone that you love just how much you love them. Even if they don't smile over the joy, it will make you smile. It will put a smile on my face just to know SOMEONE read this.
To all my cousins who think they can still put a knot on my head, stay away from the top front part. That spot still hurts when someone pushes it and that "hole" may never go away.
I love you all so much. Thanks for being the one or two that still checks up on me here. God is there and will help you when you need it. Trust me on this one! He was one of the many great things on my side almost two years ago. Family and friends talking to Him about me. How many prayer groups was I in? I don't really know, but it was just in the Houston area or in Texas. I know there was several in Florida, one or two in Tennessee, one in Colorado, one in Washington or Oregon and one in Chile, too. (Bet you didn't think I could reach that far) And you wonder why I think life is wonderful!
Mark 5/4/09
I have not entered any data lately, so I thought I might put something here. I noticed there were no responses to my last posting. If that means nobody is reading it, I am OK with that. If someone reads and does not respond, I am OK with that, too. I ran in to someone that I had not seen in a while the other day and he asked how I was doing. As usual, I said I am good. He asked if I was 100% and I told him I was probably as close to it as I will ever be and I can live with dealing with pains. It has kind of grown on me and that all right with me. I know certain things still hurt and I TRY not to do these things. Sometimes, natural instincts kick in and I do it without thinking. Then, I feel the pains. Reaching for something still gets my right shoulder to hurt especially if its got some weight to it. Getting up from sitting on the ground is still tough, too. That's OK because they told me at the hospital that this was something I could not do. I put weight on my right knee the other day and it felt like someone hit me with a bat. Old habits die hard. I have to try to put my LEFT knee down instead. This is a hard thing to do since I am not used to it yet.
We have a family reunion coming up next month. I always get excited about going even though they all pick on me. I am not sure if they pick on me because I am the youngest Grandchild or because they love me so much. Really, I don't care why because I feel all the love. I used to hate to go to this reunion as a kid even though we always enjoyed it. I did not get to see my cousins often enough to really care back then. As a teen, the last thing you wanted was something YOUR PARENTS wanted you to do! Now, I look forward to these events. Yes, I still hear stories about how they carried me around and how they took care of me. That's OK because the learning I got from them has taught me how to be a better person. I still talk to some of them pretty regularly by e-mail. Just getting a note from them makes my day brighter. So, see, life is GREAT and I am still here, breathing on my own. I can deal with this!
Make the most of your day. Tell someone that you love just how much you love them. Even if they don't smile over the joy, it will make you smile. It will put a smile on my face just to know SOMEONE read this.
To all my cousins who think they can still put a knot on my head, stay away from the top front part. That spot still hurts when someone pushes it and that "hole" may never go away.
I love you all so much. Thanks for being the one or two that still checks up on me here. God is there and will help you when you need it. Trust me on this one! He was one of the many great things on my side almost two years ago. Family and friends talking to Him about me. How many prayer groups was I in? I don't really know, but it was just in the Houston area or in Texas. I know there was several in Florida, one or two in Tennessee, one in Colorado, one in Washington or Oregon and one in Chile, too. (Bet you didn't think I could reach that far) And you wonder why I think life is wonderful!
Mark 5/4/09
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Tuesday, April 14 and still around
I am doing OK these days. I spoke with some people at work today that were amazed that I am still around. I still hurt every day, but it is important how I deal with it. I had to climb a lot of stairs at work today and it hurts to do this. The amazing thing is that it hurts more to go up than it does to go down. Going down used to hurt more many months back and going up was never real pleasant, but coming down is much better now than it was. That is a good thing. Riding a bicycle is easier, too. It used to hurt more to get on one but it is getting easier, too. I still have to watch out for bumps in the rode but life is great that I can ride better. My pelvic area still hurts to lift up and over the seat but it hurts less than it did. Time is great to me.
I have been spending time working on Tiffaney's trailer. It seems like the more time I spend on it, the more I find that needs to be done. I replaced her front door last weekend and put in a new screen door, too. One thing I learned about trailers is that a standard door is too tall. I had to shorten the height on both of these. I was careful to get the right width, but it was either shorten it or cut out some wall. I figured the length was easiest. I spent most of Saturday working on these two items but they made a big difference in the way it looks. I have to go over there this weekend and put up the boards to decorate the porch. All posts are in place and so are the handrails. Just a little of work to make it right. More time spent on it but it will all be worth it in the long run. Every time I am over there working, I feel it the next day. Yes, I don't recover from it like I used to, but I wake up breathing on my own which makes it a great day!
All the girls come home to spend Easter Sunday with us and Maxwell got to spend some time with us, too. After that, we went to Betty's sisters (Pat's) house and spent some time with them, too. I was so tired when we got home, but I slept pretty well because of it. This is our tough week around here. Betty is on days this week. She leaves home around 5AM and gets home at 7PM. We have always had issues with this week of the month, but we survive and move forward. We have learned to deal with this. One thing about 12 hours days is they start early and end late, but you get more days off because of the hours put in. I remember working these long days for many years and they were never that easy, even though I was much younger then.
My company filed for Chapter 11 in January and things at work are a little tougher now. A letter came out today trying to find people to take a severance package. They compensate you pretty well, but I am not old enough to retire so I really don't have a choice. I could not imagine having to find another job so I will do what I can to be one of the people that gets to stay. If there is not enough people that "volunteer" to leave, then the company will have to choose some people to leave. They have a number of people that will have to go, but we really don't know how many it will be. It is set to be 3000 people company wide, but at our facility, we don't really have any idea. All I can do is hope that there are enough people wanting to retire that this package will appeal to. All I can do is my best and hope for this to work out. This kind of thinking gets to you over time, but I can just hope God is looking out for what is best for us.
He has taken great care of me this far. I guess He is the reason I have such a high outlook on life. God does this to you and it is a great feeling to have.
My love to all of you. If you are one of those few that keep up with me this way, thanks for your support and love you have shared with us.
I have been spending time working on Tiffaney's trailer. It seems like the more time I spend on it, the more I find that needs to be done. I replaced her front door last weekend and put in a new screen door, too. One thing I learned about trailers is that a standard door is too tall. I had to shorten the height on both of these. I was careful to get the right width, but it was either shorten it or cut out some wall. I figured the length was easiest. I spent most of Saturday working on these two items but they made a big difference in the way it looks. I have to go over there this weekend and put up the boards to decorate the porch. All posts are in place and so are the handrails. Just a little of work to make it right. More time spent on it but it will all be worth it in the long run. Every time I am over there working, I feel it the next day. Yes, I don't recover from it like I used to, but I wake up breathing on my own which makes it a great day!
All the girls come home to spend Easter Sunday with us and Maxwell got to spend some time with us, too. After that, we went to Betty's sisters (Pat's) house and spent some time with them, too. I was so tired when we got home, but I slept pretty well because of it. This is our tough week around here. Betty is on days this week. She leaves home around 5AM and gets home at 7PM. We have always had issues with this week of the month, but we survive and move forward. We have learned to deal with this. One thing about 12 hours days is they start early and end late, but you get more days off because of the hours put in. I remember working these long days for many years and they were never that easy, even though I was much younger then.
My company filed for Chapter 11 in January and things at work are a little tougher now. A letter came out today trying to find people to take a severance package. They compensate you pretty well, but I am not old enough to retire so I really don't have a choice. I could not imagine having to find another job so I will do what I can to be one of the people that gets to stay. If there is not enough people that "volunteer" to leave, then the company will have to choose some people to leave. They have a number of people that will have to go, but we really don't know how many it will be. It is set to be 3000 people company wide, but at our facility, we don't really have any idea. All I can do is hope that there are enough people wanting to retire that this package will appeal to. All I can do is my best and hope for this to work out. This kind of thinking gets to you over time, but I can just hope God is looking out for what is best for us.
He has taken great care of me this far. I guess He is the reason I have such a high outlook on life. God does this to you and it is a great feeling to have.
My love to all of you. If you are one of those few that keep up with me this way, thanks for your support and love you have shared with us.
Monday, April 6, 2009
Monday, April 6th and I am still kicking...
Wow, another week has flown by and it, as usual, was a GREAT week. I spent last Monday and Tuesday spoiling my grandson and Wednesday through Sunday, I was working on Tiff's trailer. I have most of the deck done except for hand rails and all the skirting is done except I am about 8ft short on top holder. It is on the side near the back so you can't even see it missing. I have the longest hand rail done and one side of back steps is done, but I have to do this other side and two rails on front steps. Also need two smaller areas of street and backyard sides to do. I get there in middle of morning and come home at or near dark except for Saturday and Sunday. I left earlier on those days. Sunday, I did not have material to keep going. I have the wood for these rails except for I am one 2x4 short and I think I have enough of the vertical rails to get these done, but I was out of screws and did not feel like going back for more. I also have to build the front gate on the porch. I have a few ideas, but have not "designed" it yet. Also, I need to shorten the gate in the yard that is there and put in a post to secure it. The current gate touches the porch right now because this deck must be larger than the previous owner had. I came home each night so tired, but I noticed today that I am still improving. It does not hurt as much to lift my leg up so my pelvic area must still be improving. I rode my bicycle at work today and it was much easier to get on that it was a month ago. Therefore, I am still improving all the time. Could I run around the block? NO. I think running is out of the question! That is OK because I never liked it anyway.
Maxwell went to "day-care" for the first time today. I have not talked to Megan about it, but I am sure all went fine. This will be a new experience for them to grow in to, but with time, all will be good. I know Megan well enough to know how much attention she will pay to how this place is doing. Yes, she has a lot of Betty in her! Like Mother, like Daughter! She has a break in school in the middle of May and will keep Max at home for this time. She will probably still have to pay for day-care to keep from loosing his spot, but she would rather pay this and enjoy her time with Max.
My Mom and Dad came into town on Wednesday of last week to watch Max for the day and really enjoyed themselves. I knew they would have a great time. I did not get to see them while they were in town but them being here allowed me another day of work on the trailer. I really appreciated it! They were able to spend Tuesday night with Scott & Karen so they were close to Megan's on Wednesday. They had to be there by 6:30AM so this was their best bet dealing with the time. I am so glad they enjoyed their day!
I thought a few minutes ago that this was going to be a short entry, but once my mind starts moving, there is no telling where it will go. Every day is a GREAT one and I am so glad God allowed me to still be here "bother" you.
Thanks for taking the time to read this. I love each and every one of you.
Mark 4/6/09
Maxwell went to "day-care" for the first time today. I have not talked to Megan about it, but I am sure all went fine. This will be a new experience for them to grow in to, but with time, all will be good. I know Megan well enough to know how much attention she will pay to how this place is doing. Yes, she has a lot of Betty in her! Like Mother, like Daughter! She has a break in school in the middle of May and will keep Max at home for this time. She will probably still have to pay for day-care to keep from loosing his spot, but she would rather pay this and enjoy her time with Max.
My Mom and Dad came into town on Wednesday of last week to watch Max for the day and really enjoyed themselves. I knew they would have a great time. I did not get to see them while they were in town but them being here allowed me another day of work on the trailer. I really appreciated it! They were able to spend Tuesday night with Scott & Karen so they were close to Megan's on Wednesday. They had to be there by 6:30AM so this was their best bet dealing with the time. I am so glad they enjoyed their day!
I thought a few minutes ago that this was going to be a short entry, but once my mind starts moving, there is no telling where it will go. Every day is a GREAT one and I am so glad God allowed me to still be here "bother" you.
Thanks for taking the time to read this. I love each and every one of you.
Mark 4/6/09
Thursday, March 26, 2009
3/26 and still moving forward
Time is just flying by, but every day is a good day! I have been trying to get Tiffaney's trailer ready for her to move in to. I had to do the plumbing (water and sewer) and run and hook up the electrical line. She is moving to Deer Park and they are so tight on everything, A electrical company had to be certified by the city to check everything. They told me a few things that I had to change out. I put the electrical wiring in 2" conduit and laid it on the ground. An electrical friend told me that it had to be buried or suspended. Their rule was it had to be 18" deep and I knew I could not dig a hole under the trailer 18" deep, so I had to pull it out and run it OVER the sewer line and suspend it from the trailer. This was pretty tough because the conduit was 10' long and with this wire in it, it was heavy. I ended up tying it to trailer until I could get the bracket on. Then I would have to untie it, move down and tie up the next one. I am not sure which was worse, tying and untying or getting around under the trailer. I know I don't move as well as I once did, but I did get it run. I also had to change out the existing outdoor plug because it had to be a GCFI plug. More fun, huh? Then the city approved plumber came out and told me the same thing about the water line. It would only have to be 6" under ground, but it got attached to the trailer, too. I had the sewer line run, but they had to make sure and adjust the slope. They are much better than me on this! If this was not enough, I had to get a porch built, too. She found the boards she wanted it made of and I put the legs about 4 ft. apart. These 1 1/4" boards she liked could not support the weight without bending. I had to get back under there and put in more supports to make it sturdy enough. I guess the boards on the old deck were good for something (building these braces). I did not get railings or edge boards on yet, but that is my goal for this week-end. I also have to build another set of steps for the backyard area so the dogs can get in and out. I also have to go and put the skirting on it, too. Are we having fun on this? It sure makes me hurt the next day and this moving around so low is not pleasant, either, but at least the low part is mostly over. I knew that me trying to do this would be better than paying someone else to do this. One of the things you just do to help your kids. On top of all of that, TODAY is her Birthday.
We had a deposition with the opposing lawyer a couple of weeks ago and he implied several things that I don't agree with. He seemed to think that part of the issue was with Shane. Shane questioned the roof we were on and they said it was OK and that people were up there a lot. This company did not provide us with anything to tie off to, either. Shane did not build this roof and he asked if it was safe. I don't know what more he could have done. This lawyer also thought I fell through a skylight, which would make it look like I made a mistake. So wrong on this, too. I think they were just trying to take some of the blame off themselves, but because of them, I had over $900,000 in hospital bills and thanks to Shane, I am still here. They blame him, but I give him the credit for saving me. He was, and still is, upset about it all. It has to hurt deep down to see a good friend go through all this. It looks like a jury will have to hear my story for these people to understand how it changed my life so much. This will not be pleasant for this company to hear, but that is just how life deals the cards sometimes. I know the first things to come out of my settlement will be the hospital and doctor fees and my lawyer fees. I know when a group of people here what I and all my family and friends went through, the money it cost us and the time we lost, 12 people will be there, feeling what happened. How do you make people understand how I had to withdraw money from my retirement to keep our family afloat? Plus all the miles put on many peoples cars and the parking and meals, etc. Do I need to hit someone with a broom handle to get them to understand how much pain I still feel every day? Walking and stairs still hurt every day but I have adjusted to it because it is part of life now.
Life is great because so many people were there pulling me along and that God made a difference in my life by keeping me around. And, if this weren't enough, I get to spend some time with Maxwell tomorrow and Monday and Tuesday of next week. Yes, I had to take some vacation for it, but this is all worth it! He will just smile at me and make my life great all of those days. So how can I say "Life is Great"? It is and I am here taking in my share of air each day.
We had a deposition with the opposing lawyer a couple of weeks ago and he implied several things that I don't agree with. He seemed to think that part of the issue was with Shane. Shane questioned the roof we were on and they said it was OK and that people were up there a lot. This company did not provide us with anything to tie off to, either. Shane did not build this roof and he asked if it was safe. I don't know what more he could have done. This lawyer also thought I fell through a skylight, which would make it look like I made a mistake. So wrong on this, too. I think they were just trying to take some of the blame off themselves, but because of them, I had over $900,000 in hospital bills and thanks to Shane, I am still here. They blame him, but I give him the credit for saving me. He was, and still is, upset about it all. It has to hurt deep down to see a good friend go through all this. It looks like a jury will have to hear my story for these people to understand how it changed my life so much. This will not be pleasant for this company to hear, but that is just how life deals the cards sometimes. I know the first things to come out of my settlement will be the hospital and doctor fees and my lawyer fees. I know when a group of people here what I and all my family and friends went through, the money it cost us and the time we lost, 12 people will be there, feeling what happened. How do you make people understand how I had to withdraw money from my retirement to keep our family afloat? Plus all the miles put on many peoples cars and the parking and meals, etc. Do I need to hit someone with a broom handle to get them to understand how much pain I still feel every day? Walking and stairs still hurt every day but I have adjusted to it because it is part of life now.
Life is great because so many people were there pulling me along and that God made a difference in my life by keeping me around. And, if this weren't enough, I get to spend some time with Maxwell tomorrow and Monday and Tuesday of next week. Yes, I had to take some vacation for it, but this is all worth it! He will just smile at me and make my life great all of those days. So how can I say "Life is Great"? It is and I am here taking in my share of air each day.
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Another week has flown by & I am still here, 3/15/09
It is amazing the things I can do and the things I can't do quite right. Tiffaney's trailer was moved to Deer Park and it needs the water, sewer and electricity all run. The plumbing stuff was easy except that I had to crawl under the trailer to do it. It is still a struggle to get on the ground and harder to move around. My hardheadedness helps me get this done, but the pain is still there. There is not enough room under it to sit or move easily. Most of this had to be done while laying on my back. Moving from one spot to the next is still difficult, but I had to do this instead of having Tiff pay a plumber his fee for it. The electrical was much harder! I put all this wiring inside 2" piping all on the ground. I found out after I had run it on the ground that it either had to be 18" under ground or off the ground, suspended from the trailer. I had to pull all of this wiring back out and attach it to the bottom of the trailer. This meant it had to run OVER the sewer line. This wiring is SO HEAVY. I could not lift it up to bolt it in place. At first, I used a block of cement and a small piece of piping to get it close and attach the holder in place. After this, I started using rope to tie each piece in place until I could get the holder attached. This worked out OK except once the holder was attached, the rope had to be removed before tightening the holder. The hardest part was getting this OVER the sewer line without messing this piping up. The ground under the trailer is hard, which is hard on my tailbone. When I was under there and needed something else to continue, I had to work my way out to get it. It was a long, time consuming progress, but I got most of it done in one LONG day. The last little bit at the incoming box was a challenge, too. I could not put it together to get length of piping, so I got it as close as I could and had to cut the pipe to the length I though was right. It turned out to be a little long so I had to cut it again. This time it was a little short. That's my luck, huh? To get this to fit, I had to remove the last bracket in to make it fit. Once it was right, I had to glue the last few pieces in place. I had a friend that is a state certified electrician come by and check everything to make sure I did everything correctly. He was impressed with the way it all came out and everything looked great. He checked and tightened all connections and said it was ready to go. Now I have to get a "Deer Park approved" electrician to check it AGAIN so power can be turned on. We have one scheduled for Monday but they want $350 to do it. I think this is an easy way for them to make EASY money, but they have to be "certified" by Deer Park to get the city's permit so power can be turned on. Plumbing is the same way, but we can't get a "certified" plumber to call us back. Until we find one, we won't have water or sewer either. Next, I started working on the porch. We (Tiff and I) took the old deck apart and started on it Saturday, but with all the rain we are getting, I could not go very far. It is supposed to rain again today, but the weather is supposed to be better tomorrow (Monday). We are not going to try to fight this rain today, so I know where I will be tomorrow. This is easier because I am upright instead of being under the trailer. Moving and holding these boards is tough, but Tiff is a lot of of help doing this.
Life is wonderful and, yes, I SHOULD NOT be able to do this stuff, but God has helped me to be able to do it. He is such an inspiration to me to allow me the ability to do these things! I guess that is why I am is such a good mood most of the time and able to do things that the hospital told me I would not be able to do.
Life is wonderful and, yes, I SHOULD NOT be able to do this stuff, but God has helped me to be able to do it. He is such an inspiration to me to allow me the ability to do these things! I guess that is why I am is such a good mood most of the time and able to do things that the hospital told me I would not be able to do.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Tuesday, March 3 and still around
Well, another week has flown by and life is GREAT. I was on vacation yesterday and watched my Grandson all day. It was wonderful all day long. He was sweet almost all day. It was a wonderful thing to spend time with him. He would just look up and smile at me as he passed gas.... Typical boy, huh? I got to hold him most of the time and let him lay quietly and sleep some of the time, too.
I had to go to Huntsville on Friday and start getting the trailer ready for moving. Much of this I could do and part of it I couldn't. Getting down on the ground still hurts and getting up is not too pleasant either. We had to remove the water line, the sewer line and the wiring for electricity. The skirting along the bottom was really an interesting thing to do. It does not come a part very easily. You have to pull them away from the trailer, then lift them up to get them apart. We stacked them in my truck, one on top of the other. There was quite a few of them and they took up a lot of the room in the truck. All the piping was easy to load since it was light, but we had to tie the together so they did not blow out. Once the truck was full, we still had the porch to go. Shane was with me with his brother-in-law. Shane suggested we go to his brother's house to get a trailer to load the deck up. It was so big, we had to cut it into three pieces. It was still too heavy to easily load, but thanks to my "helpers", they did just fine. It is things like this that make me realize how hurt I still am. Do what you can and smile that I am still here taking in air. Tiffaney is getting excited about getting the trailer set up and fixed up so she will have her own place. She is a sweetheart to be around, but I think she really needs this location change. She will enjoy her own place and have her animals around to keep her company. We will really miss having her around her. She is one of those that does the things that need to be done. She cooks regularly and helps Matt with his homework, too. I don't think we will know how much we miss her until she is gone. Somehow, I need to get the porch re-built and the wiring and plumbing all still is needed. I think she will have to hire someone to put the skirting back on because it is too delicate and precise for me these days. The porches will be a challenge, but they are made of wood and I can do wood items.
Another good day is right around the corner as I get to watch Maxwell again on Friday. Betty will be working days and Megan and Matt will be gone so he is all MINE to SPOIL!
Life is great. Smile and thank God for allowing us time to enjoy everything. My love is sent to all of you that read this. Make life wonderful every day. I will write again real soon.
Mark 3/3/09
I had to go to Huntsville on Friday and start getting the trailer ready for moving. Much of this I could do and part of it I couldn't. Getting down on the ground still hurts and getting up is not too pleasant either. We had to remove the water line, the sewer line and the wiring for electricity. The skirting along the bottom was really an interesting thing to do. It does not come a part very easily. You have to pull them away from the trailer, then lift them up to get them apart. We stacked them in my truck, one on top of the other. There was quite a few of them and they took up a lot of the room in the truck. All the piping was easy to load since it was light, but we had to tie the together so they did not blow out. Once the truck was full, we still had the porch to go. Shane was with me with his brother-in-law. Shane suggested we go to his brother's house to get a trailer to load the deck up. It was so big, we had to cut it into three pieces. It was still too heavy to easily load, but thanks to my "helpers", they did just fine. It is things like this that make me realize how hurt I still am. Do what you can and smile that I am still here taking in air. Tiffaney is getting excited about getting the trailer set up and fixed up so she will have her own place. She is a sweetheart to be around, but I think she really needs this location change. She will enjoy her own place and have her animals around to keep her company. We will really miss having her around her. She is one of those that does the things that need to be done. She cooks regularly and helps Matt with his homework, too. I don't think we will know how much we miss her until she is gone. Somehow, I need to get the porch re-built and the wiring and plumbing all still is needed. I think she will have to hire someone to put the skirting back on because it is too delicate and precise for me these days. The porches will be a challenge, but they are made of wood and I can do wood items.
Another good day is right around the corner as I get to watch Maxwell again on Friday. Betty will be working days and Megan and Matt will be gone so he is all MINE to SPOIL!
Life is great. Smile and thank God for allowing us time to enjoy everything. My love is sent to all of you that read this. Make life wonderful every day. I will write again real soon.
Mark 3/3/09
Monday, February 23, 2009
Monday, Feb 23 and still kicking
Well, another day has passed us by and I am still here and PROUD to be here. I spent all last week with Megan and my Grandson and enjoyed every bit of it. It was a great thing to hold him and watch him sleep. I also enjoyed the times when he was awake just enjoying being held. Life is a wonderful thing and I really enjoyed our time together. He would just look at me with love and it makes me feel so good. Matt was off this weekend so I let him help Megan where it was needed.
I spent this weekend working on stuff around here. I broke our "not working" hot tub down and cleared the deck off. I started trying to move the deck, but it was too heavy to lift. I raised it up with my jack and placed 4x4's under it and tried to slide it. This did not work very well, either. Today, when I got home from work, I removed a few of the boards and cut the deck in to three pieces. It was still too heavy to lift up, so I slide each end a little bit at a time. Now all three pieces are moved out and the ground underneath it is pretty low. I have to fill in these holes for now, but our plan it to make the porch larger. Concrete will be put here some day soon, but I don't think I am ready for this just yet. First, I have to figure out where this deck will be put and get it set and back together. Sometimes, it is the little things that make life interesting. Once I get this set up, I can start looking at the size of the new porch. This means I have some dirt to remove and some re bar strips to put down. I do not look forward to all of this but it needs to be done so I can put my BBQ pit on it. Just think, two years ago, there was a pool and hot tub back there and now they are both gone. I have a lot of sand in place where the pool used to be. I guess the good part is that mowing is still pretty easy since there is no grass where the sand is.
I will be taking a couple of days of vacation at the start of next week to be with my Grandson. Megan has to go back to school on Thursday. Betty will be there Thursday and half of Friday and I get the other half. Then Monday and Tuesday, he will be mine to spoil! I am so looking forward to this.
Well, since today is my birthday, I had many friends call or send me cards or even a few e-mails. Tiffaney even took me out for dinner tonight while Betty was at Megan's. Certain people remember this day and that always makes me feel good. I think I turned 40 AGAIN... If my math is right, I must have been born in 1969 now. My driver's license has this date wrong. I guess when you let the state get there information from a birth certificate, they get confused.....
Life is great and I enjoy every day. Now I have Maxwell around to make me enjoy it that much more. YES, I am Grandpa now. Does this mean I am getting older? Well, YES I am but enjoying it every day that goes by.
I love life and love the people in my life! Every day that I wake up breathing on my own is a good day. Yes, we are coming up on my 2nd anniversary of my trouble, but July is still worth looking forward to living thru. I know my accident made my Mom's birthday pretty rough two years ago because it happened the day before her birthday. I can only hope she knows how much it meant to me to not call and wish her a Happy Birthday that year.
Life is wonderful and I will have a smile on my face tomorrow because I survived another year of happiness. My love is sent to all of you that still read this. I know some people read it and don't respond, but knowing that I am a dear part of their life makes me feel better. I don't care if you respond as long as you care about how I am and how I am doing.
Signed this time by "The Birthday Boy". Thanks for thinking of me and keeping up with how I am doing.
I spent this weekend working on stuff around here. I broke our "not working" hot tub down and cleared the deck off. I started trying to move the deck, but it was too heavy to lift. I raised it up with my jack and placed 4x4's under it and tried to slide it. This did not work very well, either. Today, when I got home from work, I removed a few of the boards and cut the deck in to three pieces. It was still too heavy to lift up, so I slide each end a little bit at a time. Now all three pieces are moved out and the ground underneath it is pretty low. I have to fill in these holes for now, but our plan it to make the porch larger. Concrete will be put here some day soon, but I don't think I am ready for this just yet. First, I have to figure out where this deck will be put and get it set and back together. Sometimes, it is the little things that make life interesting. Once I get this set up, I can start looking at the size of the new porch. This means I have some dirt to remove and some re bar strips to put down. I do not look forward to all of this but it needs to be done so I can put my BBQ pit on it. Just think, two years ago, there was a pool and hot tub back there and now they are both gone. I have a lot of sand in place where the pool used to be. I guess the good part is that mowing is still pretty easy since there is no grass where the sand is.
I will be taking a couple of days of vacation at the start of next week to be with my Grandson. Megan has to go back to school on Thursday. Betty will be there Thursday and half of Friday and I get the other half. Then Monday and Tuesday, he will be mine to spoil! I am so looking forward to this.
Well, since today is my birthday, I had many friends call or send me cards or even a few e-mails. Tiffaney even took me out for dinner tonight while Betty was at Megan's. Certain people remember this day and that always makes me feel good. I think I turned 40 AGAIN... If my math is right, I must have been born in 1969 now. My driver's license has this date wrong. I guess when you let the state get there information from a birth certificate, they get confused.....
Life is great and I enjoy every day. Now I have Maxwell around to make me enjoy it that much more. YES, I am Grandpa now. Does this mean I am getting older? Well, YES I am but enjoying it every day that goes by.
I love life and love the people in my life! Every day that I wake up breathing on my own is a good day. Yes, we are coming up on my 2nd anniversary of my trouble, but July is still worth looking forward to living thru. I know my accident made my Mom's birthday pretty rough two years ago because it happened the day before her birthday. I can only hope she knows how much it meant to me to not call and wish her a Happy Birthday that year.
Life is wonderful and I will have a smile on my face tomorrow because I survived another year of happiness. My love is sent to all of you that still read this. I know some people read it and don't respond, but knowing that I am a dear part of their life makes me feel better. I don't care if you respond as long as you care about how I am and how I am doing.
Signed this time by "The Birthday Boy". Thanks for thinking of me and keeping up with how I am doing.
Monday, February 16, 2009
Monday, Feb 16 and still BOTHERING you...
Yes, I am still here and YES, I am here to bother you some more. I posted some pictures of Maxwell and other members of the family. It so neat to look through the pictures and pick out good ones of each of us. I had several with my Mom in them, but did not have one of Dad. I guess he will miss out this time. I am SURE Megan has one but I did not get any. I was supposed to start baby-sitting today, but Matt had the day off because of the holiday. I stayed home and mowed the yard and piddled the rest of the day away. Don't tell Betty that I swept the floor OR emptied the dishwasher. One of those things that I do and never tell any one. I get to go spend the next few days holding my Grandson. Maybe I can convince Megan to take a nap or something. I am SO looking forward to this.
I noticed last week at work that it does not hurt as much to get on my bicycle. I guess this means I am still improving! Yes, God is still by my side helping me through all of this. I had to sit through our company safety meeting and, yes, those metal chairs still hurt my broken tailbone. Someone asked me if it would ever go away or is it getting better. I think it is better, but it is still not a pleasant thing to have. Please do try this one! Take my word on it. Not Pleasant!
Betty and I went with some friends to the Home Show yesterday. We walked quite a bit and it did not bother me that much. 6 months ago I would have had to take a couple of breaks because my pelvic area would start hurting. It is not comfortable, but the bad pains seem to be fading, too. They had a demonstration going on there of a Trikke. It is like a scooter, but has three wheels and no pedals. You control the speed by turning the steering wheel and leaning back and forth. It looks like it would be a great way to exercise but I am still afraid of these things. I did try a small ride of it and my pelvic area won't allow me to push too much and my fear of falling created another problem. I was a trick to get on. I was not sure which foot needs to go on first. My right leg is not strong enough to support my weight for very long, but I knew not to let it be up as I brought the second one up. Another one of those challenges. The girl trying to help me was not sure what to do. She asked me if my knee was bad and when I told her it was my pelvic area, she got one of those looks like she did not understand or could not comprehend my issue. I think with time and patience, this would be great exercise. Since I don't have much of either of those, I will just have to pass for now.
Life is a great thing and I am so glad you all helped keep me around to bother you! I thank you all for the love and support you gave me and my family through all of this. And Thanks to God for His help, too. Someone I know has a Birthday coming up. I think, like last year, HE will be Forty AGAIN. Good thing I don't count very well, huh?
Enjoy the pictures. I will try to change them out every once in a while. I am just glad the picture of me counting to four is gone and Maxwell will greet you for a while. It always amazed my that four glasses of tea can make you look like that. It was just iced tea brought in from New York.... (From Long Island, I believe....)
Mark 2/16/08
I noticed last week at work that it does not hurt as much to get on my bicycle. I guess this means I am still improving! Yes, God is still by my side helping me through all of this. I had to sit through our company safety meeting and, yes, those metal chairs still hurt my broken tailbone. Someone asked me if it would ever go away or is it getting better. I think it is better, but it is still not a pleasant thing to have. Please do try this one! Take my word on it. Not Pleasant!
Betty and I went with some friends to the Home Show yesterday. We walked quite a bit and it did not bother me that much. 6 months ago I would have had to take a couple of breaks because my pelvic area would start hurting. It is not comfortable, but the bad pains seem to be fading, too. They had a demonstration going on there of a Trikke. It is like a scooter, but has three wheels and no pedals. You control the speed by turning the steering wheel and leaning back and forth. It looks like it would be a great way to exercise but I am still afraid of these things. I did try a small ride of it and my pelvic area won't allow me to push too much and my fear of falling created another problem. I was a trick to get on. I was not sure which foot needs to go on first. My right leg is not strong enough to support my weight for very long, but I knew not to let it be up as I brought the second one up. Another one of those challenges. The girl trying to help me was not sure what to do. She asked me if my knee was bad and when I told her it was my pelvic area, she got one of those looks like she did not understand or could not comprehend my issue. I think with time and patience, this would be great exercise. Since I don't have much of either of those, I will just have to pass for now.
Life is a great thing and I am so glad you all helped keep me around to bother you! I thank you all for the love and support you gave me and my family through all of this. And Thanks to God for His help, too. Someone I know has a Birthday coming up. I think, like last year, HE will be Forty AGAIN. Good thing I don't count very well, huh?
Enjoy the pictures. I will try to change them out every once in a while. I am just glad the picture of me counting to four is gone and Maxwell will greet you for a while. It always amazed my that four glasses of tea can make you look like that. It was just iced tea brought in from New York.... (From Long Island, I believe....)
Mark 2/16/08
Friday, February 6, 2009
Friday, Feb 6 and NOW A GRANDPA
We had a very exciting day yesterday. Megan had labor pains most of the day and at 3:55PM, Maxwell Vincent came out for all of us to enjoy. He weighed 8lbs and 2 ozs. It was a wonderful experience for us all. Many children come into this world screaming and crying, but not this one. He could definitely cry when he needed to, but most of the time, he was as gentle as could be. I am sure he got hungry last night after I left the hospital, but most of the time he was quiet and peaceful. I am also sure today will be one those days that he will let everyone know he is here, but he slept most of time yesterday. We all got to take our turn holding and loving on him and Megan had a few friends there to help out, too. A couple of people she is in school with came by and Kim, her best friend, was there, too. We have some pictures, but I will have to find Betty's camera to get them on here.
I am sure we will go back to the hospital today to enjoy his life some more. It is a wonderful thing to still be here to enjoy the use of my new name. Several people said that the name Grandpa is sure old fashion, but it is an honor for me to use it since one of the greatest people I have ever known was called that by me. My goal in life is to be the loving and caring person that he always was to me, except I HOPE to be around more often for Maxwell. My Grandpa lived quite a way away from us, but when we were around him, his love was always there. Even if you did one of those things that made him upset, he was very understanding and would use this experience to help you learn and improve from it. I am not sure if I can quite live up to the way he was, but I am going to give everything I have to try. Being a Grandparent is a wonderful thing! I know my parents have always meant the world to all of my kids and I am going to try real hard to be that way, too. Yes, there will be a lot of spoiling going on, but that is one of the special things about being Grandpa. I am ALLOWED to do this!
It really amazed me with how everyone in my family knew the hospital better than me. They knew how to get to this or that and I was completely lost most of the time. I spent many months there in my recovery time, but I did not get to walk around the halls like they did. I saw places where I was told I was, but I just don't remember it. Funny how life is sometimes. God protected me by keeping me here and allowing me NOT to remember some of those times.
I am so glad He loves me so much! He was a big SPIRIT in my life and I will always remember this!
My love to you all.
Mark 2/6/09
I am sure we will go back to the hospital today to enjoy his life some more. It is a wonderful thing to still be here to enjoy the use of my new name. Several people said that the name Grandpa is sure old fashion, but it is an honor for me to use it since one of the greatest people I have ever known was called that by me. My goal in life is to be the loving and caring person that he always was to me, except I HOPE to be around more often for Maxwell. My Grandpa lived quite a way away from us, but when we were around him, his love was always there. Even if you did one of those things that made him upset, he was very understanding and would use this experience to help you learn and improve from it. I am not sure if I can quite live up to the way he was, but I am going to give everything I have to try. Being a Grandparent is a wonderful thing! I know my parents have always meant the world to all of my kids and I am going to try real hard to be that way, too. Yes, there will be a lot of spoiling going on, but that is one of the special things about being Grandpa. I am ALLOWED to do this!
It really amazed me with how everyone in my family knew the hospital better than me. They knew how to get to this or that and I was completely lost most of the time. I spent many months there in my recovery time, but I did not get to walk around the halls like they did. I saw places where I was told I was, but I just don't remember it. Funny how life is sometimes. God protected me by keeping me here and allowing me NOT to remember some of those times.
I am so glad He loves me so much! He was a big SPIRIT in my life and I will always remember this!
My love to you all.
Mark 2/6/09
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Saturday, Jan 31 and still here
As always, I am here and ready to post some ongoing stuff. We are getting excited about next Thursday and the coming of my Grandson. This is all exciting for us. If Megan's water does not break before Wednesday, Feb.4, they will put her in the hospital and induce her into labor on the 5th. We will be at the hospital for this exciting time. YES, I will be called Grandpa AND really looking forward to having a new special person in my life.
I guess I was wrong again, as usual, thinking that no one stills reads this, but many replies tells me I am still a concern for many people. Respond or not, I will continue for a while longer. Betty and I went to Huntsville yesterday to do some stuff to the trailer to get it ready to move to Deer Park for Tiffaney to live in. I think I am doing OK until something like this comes along. Many things I used to do with no problem now hurt me. I TRY to forget these things, but reality sets me back in place! We brought the AC unit home and part of the rear porch, too. The BOZO that built this thing 5 years ago did a great job on nailing it together. He must have found a great deal on nails. Looking at the way it is attached to the trailer, he must have put 20 nails there. We took all the boards off of it and the stairs, too. The frame is still attached with the legs in place. I will have to cut or drill these nails from the wall to get it off. AND worse news is that, the front porch is much larger. The back one is 4ft x 4ft and the stairs were another 5ft long. The front one is 8ft x 8ft and stairs for it. The good part is, in Huntsville, there are more changes in elevation than there are around here. I still have to remove the skirting around it, too. That is never much fun but is one of those things that I get to do, too. The electrical and plumbing will be a big challenge, too. I used to be able to get on the ground and move around with no issues, but it is not like that any more. It hurts to get there now and I KNOW I won't be able to move as easy as I used to.
I had my first deposition scheduled for Wednesday of this week. We drove all the way to downtown and found out the other side's lawyer had cancelled it. This was wonderful of him. I can only figure this is his way of taking more control of the issues at hand, but what he doesn't understand is my pain is not going away with more time. My lawyer will be out of town until the middle of February so they will re-schedule this sometime after that. I know they will ask a lot of questions about things I don't remember because of the damage caused to my mind. It is that way on a lot of things. Things I used to do without much thought, now I have to focus on thinking them through. Only time will tell when this will be scheduled again.
My concerns right now are on my Grandson and I will deal with these pain issues as best I can. There were a lot of dear friends and family that still read this and many took the time to respond. It is nice to see that I still have people that care and worry about my progress. Some are friends and some are family, but what is most important, is that God still loves me and is doing His best to keep me here. This always means so much to me! He is the Greatest and my Love for Him has always been a good thing to hold on to. I was always a person that cared about many things, but He has opened my eyes to so much more. People ask my a lot of times why I am always in a great mood after what I went through and all I can do is mention the "train story" to them. I REALLY think I was on the track at one point, and all the prayers and love that my friends and family gave towards me, helped God to pull me away from this train. The horn was loud, so I know I was close when it passed.
Yes, my mind is not where it used to be and I have pains in my body every day, but I am still here to appreciate the love you send and I reciprocate by sending it back. Thanks for reading and caring! I love you all so much.
Mark 1/31/09 - another month is behind us!
I guess I was wrong again, as usual, thinking that no one stills reads this, but many replies tells me I am still a concern for many people. Respond or not, I will continue for a while longer. Betty and I went to Huntsville yesterday to do some stuff to the trailer to get it ready to move to Deer Park for Tiffaney to live in. I think I am doing OK until something like this comes along. Many things I used to do with no problem now hurt me. I TRY to forget these things, but reality sets me back in place! We brought the AC unit home and part of the rear porch, too. The BOZO that built this thing 5 years ago did a great job on nailing it together. He must have found a great deal on nails. Looking at the way it is attached to the trailer, he must have put 20 nails there. We took all the boards off of it and the stairs, too. The frame is still attached with the legs in place. I will have to cut or drill these nails from the wall to get it off. AND worse news is that, the front porch is much larger. The back one is 4ft x 4ft and the stairs were another 5ft long. The front one is 8ft x 8ft and stairs for it. The good part is, in Huntsville, there are more changes in elevation than there are around here. I still have to remove the skirting around it, too. That is never much fun but is one of those things that I get to do, too. The electrical and plumbing will be a big challenge, too. I used to be able to get on the ground and move around with no issues, but it is not like that any more. It hurts to get there now and I KNOW I won't be able to move as easy as I used to.
I had my first deposition scheduled for Wednesday of this week. We drove all the way to downtown and found out the other side's lawyer had cancelled it. This was wonderful of him. I can only figure this is his way of taking more control of the issues at hand, but what he doesn't understand is my pain is not going away with more time. My lawyer will be out of town until the middle of February so they will re-schedule this sometime after that. I know they will ask a lot of questions about things I don't remember because of the damage caused to my mind. It is that way on a lot of things. Things I used to do without much thought, now I have to focus on thinking them through. Only time will tell when this will be scheduled again.
My concerns right now are on my Grandson and I will deal with these pain issues as best I can. There were a lot of dear friends and family that still read this and many took the time to respond. It is nice to see that I still have people that care and worry about my progress. Some are friends and some are family, but what is most important, is that God still loves me and is doing His best to keep me here. This always means so much to me! He is the Greatest and my Love for Him has always been a good thing to hold on to. I was always a person that cared about many things, but He has opened my eyes to so much more. People ask my a lot of times why I am always in a great mood after what I went through and all I can do is mention the "train story" to them. I REALLY think I was on the track at one point, and all the prayers and love that my friends and family gave towards me, helped God to pull me away from this train. The horn was loud, so I know I was close when it passed.
Yes, my mind is not where it used to be and I have pains in my body every day, but I am still here to appreciate the love you send and I reciprocate by sending it back. Thanks for reading and caring! I love you all so much.
Mark 1/31/09 - another month is behind us!
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Monday, January 19, 2009
January 19 and still around
Well, today is Megan's birthday. I remember where I was 26 years ago! It was a great day then and is a great day now. She is about 17 days away from having my first Grandchild. IF her water does not break before this, she will enter the hospital on February 4 and they will induce labor on February 5th. It will be a while before he calls me Grandpa, but it is one of those things to look forward to. I am so EXCITED about this. The doctor says she is doing fine, but getting around is getting harder and harder. I remember this when Betty was at this stage.
I am having to deal with our company filing Chapter 11 right now. With this down turn in our economy, this will be one of those things to deal with using time. At least it was not Chapter 7 so we are still moving forward. They are looking at jobs that everyone does and will measure each of our progress with this. We are supposed to be cutting 15% in our work force. My boss asked me how I am feeling these days. I talk to him honestly and tell him where I still have issues. It STILL hurts to get on a bicycle and rough roads still are a challenge, too. Climbing still is trouble for me because it was one of those things that I could do with no issue. Now it hurts to do it and I move a lot slower than I used to, but I wake up breathing every day, so it is a good thing. Bathroom issues bother me more than it did before but not having a gall bladder will do that to you. Smile and move on and deal with the issues as best I can.
I noticed that no one sent any replies to last few messages out, but my mind will not let me believe that no one is reading them. I understand that reading and replying are different. Some people read these notes and have nothing to add and I can live with this. Once my mind convinces me that no one is reading, I will stop writing here. This is one of those things that HELPS me deal with my issues.
Betty told me last week that I am not the same person that I was before. She said that my mind is not working like it did before and that she sees that it bothers me ALOT. I don't see this, but she does and is not afraid to tell me about it. I know I loose my temper easier than I used to. Sometimes I notice it, but sometimes I don't. Many times there is some information that I need that I SHOULD know, but now I don't know it. This is frustrating to me!
When I left the hospital, they told me that I would be in a wheelchair for one year and on a walker for two more. Well, last October is where my one year would have been. There is no way I could tolerate this, but they told me to expect it and learn to deal with it. Betty says that my determination to get better pushed me harder than they would expect. Yes, my pelvic area still hurts and I don't sleep as good as I used to, but that is OK as long as God allows me to wake up breathing.
I love life and all the help that everyone gave me and I thanks God for helping pull me out of this. I know this was tough on all of my family and friends, but most of those tough times I don't remember.
Life is great and God loves us all. Don't be afraid to talk to him in times of needs or if help is needed. He pulled me out of a bad spot and will help you too if you ask Him.
Thanks for reading this and keeping up with where I am and where I am going. I love you all so much!
Mark 1/19/09
I am having to deal with our company filing Chapter 11 right now. With this down turn in our economy, this will be one of those things to deal with using time. At least it was not Chapter 7 so we are still moving forward. They are looking at jobs that everyone does and will measure each of our progress with this. We are supposed to be cutting 15% in our work force. My boss asked me how I am feeling these days. I talk to him honestly and tell him where I still have issues. It STILL hurts to get on a bicycle and rough roads still are a challenge, too. Climbing still is trouble for me because it was one of those things that I could do with no issue. Now it hurts to do it and I move a lot slower than I used to, but I wake up breathing every day, so it is a good thing. Bathroom issues bother me more than it did before but not having a gall bladder will do that to you. Smile and move on and deal with the issues as best I can.
I noticed that no one sent any replies to last few messages out, but my mind will not let me believe that no one is reading them. I understand that reading and replying are different. Some people read these notes and have nothing to add and I can live with this. Once my mind convinces me that no one is reading, I will stop writing here. This is one of those things that HELPS me deal with my issues.
Betty told me last week that I am not the same person that I was before. She said that my mind is not working like it did before and that she sees that it bothers me ALOT. I don't see this, but she does and is not afraid to tell me about it. I know I loose my temper easier than I used to. Sometimes I notice it, but sometimes I don't. Many times there is some information that I need that I SHOULD know, but now I don't know it. This is frustrating to me!
When I left the hospital, they told me that I would be in a wheelchair for one year and on a walker for two more. Well, last October is where my one year would have been. There is no way I could tolerate this, but they told me to expect it and learn to deal with it. Betty says that my determination to get better pushed me harder than they would expect. Yes, my pelvic area still hurts and I don't sleep as good as I used to, but that is OK as long as God allows me to wake up breathing.
I love life and all the help that everyone gave me and I thanks God for helping pull me out of this. I know this was tough on all of my family and friends, but most of those tough times I don't remember.
Life is great and God loves us all. Don't be afraid to talk to him in times of needs or if help is needed. He pulled me out of a bad spot and will help you too if you ask Him.
Thanks for reading this and keeping up with where I am and where I am going. I love you all so much!
Mark 1/19/09
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Tuesday, January 6, 2009 and still here
Well, the new year is upon us and life itself is great. The holiday season has past us by again and we had a great Christmas this year and a mild new year, too. I had a couple of guys retire from work last week and it was tough to tell bye and still wish them the best with their retirement.
I ran into some people yesterday that knew part of what happened to me, but did not have all of their information right and were concerned on how I was feeling. I explained to them when I feel pain and what causes it to get worse. I still have an issue with riding my bicycle at work. Getting on it is still hard and it still hurts my pelvic area to do. I also have to watch going over rough areas because of my tailbone issue. That is one of those things I will have to deal with for many, many years. My right pelvic will also hurt me for probably the rest of my life. Smile and move forward. God helps me with this and allows me to enjoy every day.
I got to a stopping point on my sheetrock work. The laundry room is all done and it was a tough thing to do because it is so small. Getting the lower parts was most difficult, but it came out looking good. Betty put a coating on the walls and applied paint to it, too. It looks great in their. I spent some time this last weekend putting some carpet that we had left from one of the rooms at the trailer. It was rolled up and put in the garage attic hidden behind all of the Christmas stuff. Once all of this was out, I got up there to see what was there and found this carpet rolled up. It was a pleasant surprise to find. Getting down on the ground was a challenge but is OK until I need something and have to get up to go get it.
As you can see, I can do things that I could not do a year ago, but I am no where near where I was two years ago. It is amazing what these sudden surprises can do for you and to you. They talked at work today about a guy at our Victoria plant that fell about 15 to 20 feet and died. When I heard this, I was so thankful that God was with me when I fell 25 feet and just had some major issues. Prayers and good faith pulled me through all of this.
Thanks to all of you for helping me here. I guess that is why I think life is great! Smile and move forward.
My new Grandson will be here in another month or so. I am so excited about this upcoming event!
Love to all of you and let God help you out when you need Him to.
Mark 1/6/09
I ran into some people yesterday that knew part of what happened to me, but did not have all of their information right and were concerned on how I was feeling. I explained to them when I feel pain and what causes it to get worse. I still have an issue with riding my bicycle at work. Getting on it is still hard and it still hurts my pelvic area to do. I also have to watch going over rough areas because of my tailbone issue. That is one of those things I will have to deal with for many, many years. My right pelvic will also hurt me for probably the rest of my life. Smile and move forward. God helps me with this and allows me to enjoy every day.
I got to a stopping point on my sheetrock work. The laundry room is all done and it was a tough thing to do because it is so small. Getting the lower parts was most difficult, but it came out looking good. Betty put a coating on the walls and applied paint to it, too. It looks great in their. I spent some time this last weekend putting some carpet that we had left from one of the rooms at the trailer. It was rolled up and put in the garage attic hidden behind all of the Christmas stuff. Once all of this was out, I got up there to see what was there and found this carpet rolled up. It was a pleasant surprise to find. Getting down on the ground was a challenge but is OK until I need something and have to get up to go get it.
As you can see, I can do things that I could not do a year ago, but I am no where near where I was two years ago. It is amazing what these sudden surprises can do for you and to you. They talked at work today about a guy at our Victoria plant that fell about 15 to 20 feet and died. When I heard this, I was so thankful that God was with me when I fell 25 feet and just had some major issues. Prayers and good faith pulled me through all of this.
Thanks to all of you for helping me here. I guess that is why I think life is great! Smile and move forward.
My new Grandson will be here in another month or so. I am so excited about this upcoming event!
Love to all of you and let God help you out when you need Him to.
Mark 1/6/09
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
