Tuesday, Dec 4 and Mark is home!!!

My trip of the hospital is over AGAIN. Surgery went longer than expected, but that is OK if they got all of my infections out before closing. I am in a lot my pain now that I was in before but they took a big piece of metal out of me. This took a big hole to do and I will survive this too. The doctor told me I would be in on Monday and out on Tuesday but he never thought about the doctor that had to fill in this hole. This doctor had to make sure the infection was cleared out. As long as this was done, I am going to be OK. I will suffer a little more pain to get better. They will let me know how I am doing overall next week at my doctor's appointment.
I had some visitors come see me while I was at the hospital. My nephew, Jake, came and stayed for a few hours and my parents came early in the week and contacted by phone after that to make sure all was going well. Two guys from my Dutch oven group came by on Friday and it was a good surprise to see them there. I was waiting on surgery call and looked and they were there (Jerry and Jerry). Thanks to ALL of you that came. My family all took their turn to see me, too. That makes everything better!!! Plus my 2nd cousin, Sara, came from Dallas and spent Saturday with me with her daughter, Nicolette. It was good to see them again, too. I also had several good friends take the time and call me, too. It means so much to know that so many people care about how I am.
There were several replies to Betty's input that meant a lot to me. Sallie sent one in from her family. They are always keeping us in their hearts and that means so much to me. Jenn also sent me one. I am SO LOOKING FORWARD to seeing you later this month. I am sorry I was in such bad shape last time you were here, but thanks for coming when you did. I don't remember seeing you but to know you were here, still means a lot to me. Three special cousins also replied! This means they are still looking out for me. Debra Jo sent a lot of special words to me and Betty, showing that she still is pulling for me. Karen also sent a lot of words to say that I will be OK and to keep pushing myself. She also gives a lot of good words to my wonderful wife, too. Then, Janet had to add to wonderful thoughts for us all, too. She seem to understand what Betty is going through with me. I know this is not an easy thing to deal with me like this, but this wonderful woman just keeps on going. I am sure thankful I have her on my side through all of this. She keeps my head on straight and moves me in the right direction to get better. Without her, my reason for being here would be lost. She is the most important thing in the world to me and I need to tell her that MORE often.
Well, December is finally here and what an exciting month this is around here. We have our Christmas party this weekend. It starts at 7PM for adults only. Then, about a week later, we have Tiffaney's graduation. I think it is Friday the 15th. Then we have the BIG HOLIDAY and then less than a week later, Megan is getting married. I have to be walking good by then and have to dance with her, too. Watch a month around here!!! My wife is trying her best to stay on top of it all, but this will really be a test for her. If this weren't enough, I had to be sick during this time, too. I am hoping the doctor will let me go back to work soon, but only time will tell on this!!!
My God be with you all and ask him for His help if you need it. He has been there for me so many times that I know He will help you too if asked. I love you all and sorry I get so wordy. I just have so much to say to everyone!
Love you, Mark