You can reach Sue at (314) 452-3685 or (314) 726-2032. You can write to her c/o Rose Holt, 905 Barnard College Lane, St. Louis, MO 63130. It is Thursday morning. This has been one busy week, which is the reason we haven't updated for several days. On Sunday Rose and I drove over to the Illinois-Indiana border on Highway 64 to meet Scott and Sherry and Jalen. Jalen came home with us to spend part of the holidays. Brayden stayed at home with his Grandma Jean because he was still a bit under the weather. Sunday evening we all went to Chris and Shelly's for our family gathering, and that was wonderful. Shelly and her Aunt Kathleen had set such a beautiful table that we were actually stunned to look at it. And that was only the beginning of a wonderful evening. The family was great, the food scrumptious, the house decked out for Christmas, the gifts perfect. We got to meet Katie's friend Austin for the first time. He is an anthropology major at Kansas U where Katie is majoring in interior design. Drew finished his first semester at Mizzou with a 3.2 grade point average which made his father and granny very proud. Jalen was the only child at this event, but you sure couldn't tell it. He is one grown-up seven-year-old. On Tuesday morning Shirley had to be at St. Mary's Hospital at 5:30 am for her out-patient surgical procedure. That all went perfectly, and she was home by 11:00 am to recover. She had a rough day Tuesday but was much on the mend on Wednesday. Jalen brought with him a 550 piece Spiderman jigsaw puzzle which Shirley and Rose have spent hours hovering over. Finally, last night at around 11:00 pm they finished it. Jalen is very good at those kind of puzzle but his interest is in his video games. Occasionally he would walk by the table and drop a piece in place to all our astonishment. Yesterday it was back to meet Scott, this time to get both Brayden and Shirley's young friend Jamil. Jamil and Jalen have become fast friends, and were lobbying for a way to get together over this school break. Jamil's dad met Scott for Scott to get Jamil, then Scott, Brayden, and Jamil drove on west to meet us. Our drive home with these three boys was such a joy. Brayden took Jalen's gameboy and would not give it back. He holds it and punches with his thumbs just as the big boys do, staring intently as he 'plays.' We are happy to report that Brayden is well and has only an occasional cough left over from his virus. Last night Jalen, Jamil, Brayden, and I slept in the third floor 'guest suite.' Jalen and Jamil told me I snored and talked in my sleep, both of which they thought were hilarious. Unfortunately, Jamil cannot stay a long time. Dena and Layla will drive over, spend the night, and the three of them will have to go home to Bloomington, IN on Friday. Tonight we go to the Smith's for dinner. These boys will have a high time with Alex and Brett. Perhaps we have had a change of luck. Our wonderful neighbor here on Barnard College Lane, when told of our Pontiac Plight, offered his help in getting the thing sold. He is a no-nonsense sort of guy, efficient, and very kind. We took him up on his offer. Joe mistyped 'Pontiac' the other day in a note he wrote us, spelling it instead 'Pontias.' I've decided 'Pontiass' is a good name for this machine and have called it that ever since.
Thursday, December 30, 2004
Saturday, December 25, 2004
You can reach Sue at (314) 452-3685 or (314) 726-2032. You can write to her c/o Rose Holt, 905 Barnard College Lane, St. Louis, MO 63130
Hello, it's Rose here with a quick Christmas update. First of all, MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A VERY HAPPY NEW YEAR to our Dear Readers and their families.
The Big News we've been dealing with is Brayden's respiratory virus. Thursday night he had to be admitted to a local hospital in Louisville, later to be transferred to the children's hospital in Louisville. Scott spent the night with him, and on Friday morning the physicians released the little fellow.
Of course, we were waiting anxiously for news. Our Dear Beloved Brayden! Scott, Sherry, Brayden and Jalen were due to travel here tomorrow. It looked like on Thursday, No Trip to St. Louis. Scott was very concerned that all this happened on Jalen's Birthday Number Seven and that, in Scott's words, "Jalen was getting hosed." Then with Brayden's rapid recovery, the trip was back on. Today: No Trip to St. Louis for the family. Brayden was running a fever, and the virus wasn't completely gone. Our current plan is that we will meet Scott half way tomorrow to get Jalen who will come for a long-promised visit here. If Brayden is well enough, we'll get him some time during the week.
I'm afraid it is Scott who is 'getting hosed' this Christmas. He surely has his hands full.
When we last talked with Scott this afternoon, he had both boys, and they were having a High Time opening their gifts. When I told Jalen that Santa had been here and left gifts for him and his brother, Jalen said, "Wow! Santa was there too! He was at Grandma Jean's, at Grandma Mary's, at Mom's House, and at Dad's House!"
Folks, we are sick and tired of the gods laying waste to our plans! They surely have been trifling with us of late.
Sue spent a good part of today with Den at the Facility. He wasn't doing as well as he has been doing of late. This afternoon Shirley and I called for Sue at the Facility, and the three of went out to the Abbotts' for our Christmas Visit. For a dozen or more years, Den's traditional gift to the Abbotts has been the Hallmark Star Trek Limited Edition Ornament, some of which sell now for quite a pot on E-Bay. Just yesterday, Sue and I found the 2004 edition, something Den had been hoping we could do.
We had a great time at the Abbotts, exchanged gifts, ate a lot, and watched Norm repair things we brought for him to repair. [Well, in truth, in one case he just showed us how to turn the thing on. Norm makes us women think he has secret knowledge when it may, in fact, be nothing more than his own good common sense, probably taught to him by Margaret.]
Shirley and I dropped Sue back at the Facility on our way home and will call for her around 6:30 or so. Den wasn't able to go to his mother's Christmas Day Dinner. Instead he had guests come to him.
For one brief, shining moment this week, it looked like there might be a possible buyer for the Pontiac. Alas, it's looks like not. Those trifling gods again.
We'll post more when Sue is around to provide input and perhaps even some humor. These grim times require a lot of chocolate.
Hello, it's Rose here with a quick Christmas update. First of all, MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A VERY HAPPY NEW YEAR to our Dear Readers and their families.
The Big News we've been dealing with is Brayden's respiratory virus. Thursday night he had to be admitted to a local hospital in Louisville, later to be transferred to the children's hospital in Louisville. Scott spent the night with him, and on Friday morning the physicians released the little fellow.
Of course, we were waiting anxiously for news. Our Dear Beloved Brayden! Scott, Sherry, Brayden and Jalen were due to travel here tomorrow. It looked like on Thursday, No Trip to St. Louis. Scott was very concerned that all this happened on Jalen's Birthday Number Seven and that, in Scott's words, "Jalen was getting hosed." Then with Brayden's rapid recovery, the trip was back on. Today: No Trip to St. Louis for the family. Brayden was running a fever, and the virus wasn't completely gone. Our current plan is that we will meet Scott half way tomorrow to get Jalen who will come for a long-promised visit here. If Brayden is well enough, we'll get him some time during the week.
I'm afraid it is Scott who is 'getting hosed' this Christmas. He surely has his hands full.
When we last talked with Scott this afternoon, he had both boys, and they were having a High Time opening their gifts. When I told Jalen that Santa had been here and left gifts for him and his brother, Jalen said, "Wow! Santa was there too! He was at Grandma Jean's, at Grandma Mary's, at Mom's House, and at Dad's House!"
Folks, we are sick and tired of the gods laying waste to our plans! They surely have been trifling with us of late.
Sue spent a good part of today with Den at the Facility. He wasn't doing as well as he has been doing of late. This afternoon Shirley and I called for Sue at the Facility, and the three of went out to the Abbotts' for our Christmas Visit. For a dozen or more years, Den's traditional gift to the Abbotts has been the Hallmark Star Trek Limited Edition Ornament, some of which sell now for quite a pot on E-Bay. Just yesterday, Sue and I found the 2004 edition, something Den had been hoping we could do.
We had a great time at the Abbotts, exchanged gifts, ate a lot, and watched Norm repair things we brought for him to repair. [Well, in truth, in one case he just showed us how to turn the thing on. Norm makes us women think he has secret knowledge when it may, in fact, be nothing more than his own good common sense, probably taught to him by Margaret.]
Shirley and I dropped Sue back at the Facility on our way home and will call for her around 6:30 or so. Den wasn't able to go to his mother's Christmas Day Dinner. Instead he had guests come to him.
For one brief, shining moment this week, it looked like there might be a possible buyer for the Pontiac. Alas, it's looks like not. Those trifling gods again.
We'll post more when Sue is around to provide input and perhaps even some humor. These grim times require a lot of chocolate.
Thursday, December 23, 2004
You can reach Sue at (314) 452-3685 or (314) 726-2032. You can write to her c/o Rose Holt, 905 Barnard College Lane, St. Louis, MO 63130
Den's appointment with the gastroenterologist on Monday didn't tell us a whole lot. The next step, a CT Scan scheduled for January 13, may reveal more. The trip to the specialist was a parade. Kim, Aaron, Chris, and I went with Den and had a two-hour wait before getting into see the guy. The day was very rough for Den. It was bitter cold here, and he was totally exhausted. It wasn't a cakewalk for the rest of us either.
Since Monday, Den is 'some better.' Yesterday was probably his best day in about three weeks. Last evening his kids and their families came for the Christmas get-together. I didn't stay for the occasion because I had already made three trips there and was exhausted for reasons explained below.
Yesterday, the facility announced at one in the afternoon that word from the insurance company had arrived: NO MORE PAYMENT. Of course, that set off a huge alarm because these places are extremely expensive. Rose and I met with the facility social worker who is in charge of such things and arranged to have Den moved to a less expensive floor. Less expensive translates to $140 per day from the $300 per day where he has been. Of course, we enlisted Catrina's help because it seemed unseemly that all this could happen two days before Christmas. Blue Cross and Blue Shield, the new Scrooge? Anyway, we may have a reprieve for a short time. THANK YOU, CATRINA!
Meanwhile, the facility is leaving Den in the room where he is until BC & BS reviews his case. Even with another week (and that's still a question), the problem of longer-term care is a pressing one. Den is unable to stay by himself. I can't take care of him, and there is no good alternative to one of these expensive facilities. The title to this story: "Back to Poverty Flats" or "Return to Turnbow." We're laughing here only to keep from crying.
On a different topic, I had a wonderful weekend with Chris and Shelly, then with Margaret and Norm. They all treated me royally. Chris ferried me all over town. Shelly cooked her special stuffed shells. Norm was at Charm Level 10, and Margaret her usual caring, loving self. She fried chicken and served it up with all the trimmings. Margaret planned to make eight pounds of fudge on Sunday but didn't get around to it. On Tuesday I called to see how the fudge was coming. Margaret said, "I cooked, and I ate it ALL." Den and I have been looking forward to that fudge. Den asked if it was taking so long because Margaret was 'fermenting' it like Norm does his wine.
Shirley came home on Monday. Chris picked her up at the airport then he came and got me at the Facility. Shirley and I went to Applebee's for dinner on Monday. Rose returned on Tuesday, again calling on the Christopher Taxi Service. What would we all do without Chris? [By the way, Chris, isn't it time for you to post an editorial here? We've been hearing popular demand for input from you. And, Anyone Else, please post comments!]
We heard from Scott yesterday. Louisville is in the middle of that big snow storm that is just east of us here in St. Louis. Brayden, when he saw the snow, ran to the window and said, "Cool!!!" Today is Jalen's Seventh Birthday. Yesterday Scott had a Super Jalen Birthday Celebration, going sledding with Jalen and letting him open his gifts. When Rose talked with Jalen, she said, "Oh, Jalen, I am so glad your birthday didn't get lost in Christmas." Jalen's response indicated he was bewildered that a birthday could 'get lost.' Scott assured us that the whole week was one big birthday-Christmas celebration in Louisville. Scott, Sherry, and the two boys will arrive here Christmas evening.
Den's appointment with the gastroenterologist on Monday didn't tell us a whole lot. The next step, a CT Scan scheduled for January 13, may reveal more. The trip to the specialist was a parade. Kim, Aaron, Chris, and I went with Den and had a two-hour wait before getting into see the guy. The day was very rough for Den. It was bitter cold here, and he was totally exhausted. It wasn't a cakewalk for the rest of us either.
Since Monday, Den is 'some better.' Yesterday was probably his best day in about three weeks. Last evening his kids and their families came for the Christmas get-together. I didn't stay for the occasion because I had already made three trips there and was exhausted for reasons explained below.
Yesterday, the facility announced at one in the afternoon that word from the insurance company had arrived: NO MORE PAYMENT. Of course, that set off a huge alarm because these places are extremely expensive. Rose and I met with the facility social worker who is in charge of such things and arranged to have Den moved to a less expensive floor. Less expensive translates to $140 per day from the $300 per day where he has been. Of course, we enlisted Catrina's help because it seemed unseemly that all this could happen two days before Christmas. Blue Cross and Blue Shield, the new Scrooge? Anyway, we may have a reprieve for a short time. THANK YOU, CATRINA!
Meanwhile, the facility is leaving Den in the room where he is until BC & BS reviews his case. Even with another week (and that's still a question), the problem of longer-term care is a pressing one. Den is unable to stay by himself. I can't take care of him, and there is no good alternative to one of these expensive facilities. The title to this story: "Back to Poverty Flats" or "Return to Turnbow." We're laughing here only to keep from crying.
On a different topic, I had a wonderful weekend with Chris and Shelly, then with Margaret and Norm. They all treated me royally. Chris ferried me all over town. Shelly cooked her special stuffed shells. Norm was at Charm Level 10, and Margaret her usual caring, loving self. She fried chicken and served it up with all the trimmings. Margaret planned to make eight pounds of fudge on Sunday but didn't get around to it. On Tuesday I called to see how the fudge was coming. Margaret said, "I cooked, and I ate it ALL." Den and I have been looking forward to that fudge. Den asked if it was taking so long because Margaret was 'fermenting' it like Norm does his wine.
Shirley came home on Monday. Chris picked her up at the airport then he came and got me at the Facility. Shirley and I went to Applebee's for dinner on Monday. Rose returned on Tuesday, again calling on the Christopher Taxi Service. What would we all do without Chris? [By the way, Chris, isn't it time for you to post an editorial here? We've been hearing popular demand for input from you. And, Anyone Else, please post comments!]
We heard from Scott yesterday. Louisville is in the middle of that big snow storm that is just east of us here in St. Louis. Brayden, when he saw the snow, ran to the window and said, "Cool!!!" Today is Jalen's Seventh Birthday. Yesterday Scott had a Super Jalen Birthday Celebration, going sledding with Jalen and letting him open his gifts. When Rose talked with Jalen, she said, "Oh, Jalen, I am so glad your birthday didn't get lost in Christmas." Jalen's response indicated he was bewildered that a birthday could 'get lost.' Scott assured us that the whole week was one big birthday-Christmas celebration in Louisville. Scott, Sherry, and the two boys will arrive here Christmas evening.
Sunday, December 19, 2004
You can reach Sue at (314) 452-3685 or (314) 726-2032. You can write to her c/o Rose Holt, 905 Barnard College Lane, St. Louis, MO 63130
THIS IS AN ADVERTISEMENT:
New Car Deal:
Pontiac Grand Prix, 2005 Model,
four-door sedan, black with dark pewter leather interior:
MSRPBase Price.......... $26,560
Power Sun Roof.......... $895
Auto Dual Zone AC.......... $275
Leather Trim Pkg includingheated driver and frontpassenger seats, leatherappointed seating, leathertrim pkg.......... $665
Premium Audio Pkg includesin-dash six-disc CDchanger, 245 watt monsoonnine speaker system .......... $695
Aluminun Wheels .......... $275
Competition Group includes:P225/55VR17 PerformanceTires, 17" Aluminun FinishWheel, Magnasteer II, StabilitrakSport, Tapshift, 3.29 Axle Ratio,Trip Computer, Head-Up Display,Red Painted Brake Calipers .......... $1395
Destination Charge.......... $660
Sub-TOTAL .......... $31420
Extended Warranty .......... $1500 [Transferable, if new owner wishes]
TOTAL .......... $32920
The car has less than 1,000 miles.
Our sales price: $29,810 with extended warranty; $28310 without extended warranty
The car will be stored at Midwest in St. Louis until it is sold.
THIS IS AN ADVERTISEMENT:
New Car Deal:
Pontiac Grand Prix, 2005 Model,
four-door sedan, black with dark pewter leather interior:
MSRPBase Price.......... $26,560
Power Sun Roof.......... $895
Auto Dual Zone AC.......... $275
Leather Trim Pkg includingheated driver and frontpassenger seats, leatherappointed seating, leathertrim pkg.......... $665
Premium Audio Pkg includesin-dash six-disc CDchanger, 245 watt monsoonnine speaker system .......... $695
Aluminun Wheels .......... $275
Competition Group includes:P225/55VR17 PerformanceTires, 17" Aluminun FinishWheel, Magnasteer II, StabilitrakSport, Tapshift, 3.29 Axle Ratio,Trip Computer, Head-Up Display,Red Painted Brake Calipers .......... $1395
Destination Charge.......... $660
Sub-TOTAL .......... $31420
Extended Warranty .......... $1500 [Transferable, if new owner wishes]
TOTAL .......... $32920
The car has less than 1,000 miles.
Our sales price: $29,810 with extended warranty; $28310 without extended warranty
The car will be stored at Midwest in St. Louis until it is sold.
You can reach Sue at (314) 452-3685 or (314) 726-2032. You can write to her c/o Rose Holt, 905 Barnard College Lane, St. Louis, MO 63130
Hello, it's Rose, writing from Chicago. Sue normally travels here on these regular jaunts to have acupuncture treatments with Master Wang. I think she stayed home this weekend because she doesn't like being away from Den for three to four days. Chris and Shelly were hosting her yesterday and part of today. Margaret and Norman will call for her at the Extended Care Facility, and she will spend the night at their house tonight.
Tomorrow morning Den has an important appointment with his gastroenterologist. The physicians cautioned Sue in Dartmouth last month that Den's well-being would require a delicate balance. That surely has proven to be the case. He has good days and bad days, and the balance is difficult to maintain without the kind of intensive medical attention he was getting while in hospital. We are all hoping that the appointment tomorrow will result in some improvement.
It is very, very cold today here in Chicago, and very windy. Pete and Janet called this morning as they do frequently to check on all that is happening. They are off later in the week to Boise for the Holidays to spend them with Kelly and his two sons. Early in January they return to their southern home then will be making a six-week tour through Mexico and Belize. Nice! This evening they are going to Church with daughter Nancy and her family. Pete had talked yesterday with both Bernie and Joe.
I invite all our Dear Readers to post comments of any and all kinds here. Family news is always welcome and sometimes very hard to come by.
Hello, it's Rose, writing from Chicago. Sue normally travels here on these regular jaunts to have acupuncture treatments with Master Wang. I think she stayed home this weekend because she doesn't like being away from Den for three to four days. Chris and Shelly were hosting her yesterday and part of today. Margaret and Norman will call for her at the Extended Care Facility, and she will spend the night at their house tonight.
Tomorrow morning Den has an important appointment with his gastroenterologist. The physicians cautioned Sue in Dartmouth last month that Den's well-being would require a delicate balance. That surely has proven to be the case. He has good days and bad days, and the balance is difficult to maintain without the kind of intensive medical attention he was getting while in hospital. We are all hoping that the appointment tomorrow will result in some improvement.
It is very, very cold today here in Chicago, and very windy. Pete and Janet called this morning as they do frequently to check on all that is happening. They are off later in the week to Boise for the Holidays to spend them with Kelly and his two sons. Early in January they return to their southern home then will be making a six-week tour through Mexico and Belize. Nice! This evening they are going to Church with daughter Nancy and her family. Pete had talked yesterday with both Bernie and Joe.
I invite all our Dear Readers to post comments of any and all kinds here. Family news is always welcome and sometimes very hard to come by.
Friday, December 17, 2004
You can reach Sue at (314) 452-3685 or (314) 726-2032. You can write to her c/o Rose Holt, 905 Barnard College Lane, St. Louis, MO 63130
I spent a good part of yesterday afternoon with my son Christopher, always a big treat. He called for me at the Extended Care Facility and visited with Den a bit, also checking out the set-up for Den to have a VCR and DVD Player in his room.
Chris and Shelly were into high-finance--renegotiating their home mortgage for a much better deal. The old mortgage company and the new one both debited their checking account, creating a temporary shortage-of-funds crisis. The mistake on the part of the old company brought out the red head in Shelly. She was livid and rightly so. The usual laid-back Mr. Chris was exercized. Somehow they got the situation resolved, but it was a very bad thing to happen, especially right here at Christmas time.
We had an e-mail from Pete and Janet who are home in Idaho Falls for the holidays. Pete is worried about Joe since Joe's retirement. He heard that Joe now takes an hour and half to watch "60 Minutes."
Suzanne picked me up at the Facility last night and ferried me home. She and Doug, among others of my sons' friends, have been sooooo helpful to me and to Den through all this that it brings tears to my eyes.
When I got to the Extended Care Facility yesterday morning, Lari and Evelyn, Den's sister and mother, were already there. We had a nice visit. Later Den's Uncle Paul and cousin Dave came.
One last note: REMEMBER THE PONTIAC!!! SUCH A DEAL!!!!
I spent a good part of yesterday afternoon with my son Christopher, always a big treat. He called for me at the Extended Care Facility and visited with Den a bit, also checking out the set-up for Den to have a VCR and DVD Player in his room.
Chris and Shelly were into high-finance--renegotiating their home mortgage for a much better deal. The old mortgage company and the new one both debited their checking account, creating a temporary shortage-of-funds crisis. The mistake on the part of the old company brought out the red head in Shelly. She was livid and rightly so. The usual laid-back Mr. Chris was exercized. Somehow they got the situation resolved, but it was a very bad thing to happen, especially right here at Christmas time.
We had an e-mail from Pete and Janet who are home in Idaho Falls for the holidays. Pete is worried about Joe since Joe's retirement. He heard that Joe now takes an hour and half to watch "60 Minutes."
Suzanne picked me up at the Facility last night and ferried me home. She and Doug, among others of my sons' friends, have been sooooo helpful to me and to Den through all this that it brings tears to my eyes.
When I got to the Extended Care Facility yesterday morning, Lari and Evelyn, Den's sister and mother, were already there. We had a nice visit. Later Den's Uncle Paul and cousin Dave came.
One last note: REMEMBER THE PONTIAC!!! SUCH A DEAL!!!!
Thursday, December 16, 2004
You can reach Sue at (314) 452-3685 or (314) 726-2032. You can write to her c/o Rose Holt, 905 Barnard College Lane, St. Louis, MO 63130
We had a sad e-mail from Sabrina this morning. She is in California on business and called home last night to learn that Mrs. McLaren, her boys' wonderful second grade teacher had died. Sabrina asks that we all pray for Mrs. McLaren and the young children she left behind. She was a treasure.
There is nothing new to report about Den. He is about the same. Next Monday he will see the gastroenterologist who treated him at St. Mary's. Perhaps we will know more after that appointment.
Rose and I have been, (in our spare moments which aren't many what with all the 'work' we've had to do), organizing the Oakland House for Christmas guests. Or, for that matter, for any other time people want to come to town. We can put them here in the guest room or in what we have been calling the "Oakland Guest House." We may never sort through all the stuff that was in Den's Chicago stuido apartment. The movers, Doug, Scott K., Scott S., Chris, and Mark G., could not believe Den could get so much stuff in such a small space. Den has always been a pack rack.
We are hoping Joe Felin and some of his family will visit during this season. Joe called yesterday and talked about the possibility. Joe, room or house, both will be ready for you and yours.
Today is a Rose Work Day, and I will spend time with Den at the facility where Chris will call for me to take me for my own physical therapy in the afternoon. Rose has class tonight, and I plan to again spend time with Den.
Shirley travelled to Chicago yesterday, and Rose will go there on Saturday. I am sitting this trip out, staying instead with Chris and Shelley and with Margaret and Norman. I'm skipping this acupuncturist appointment AND the cold, windy Chicago weather.
It's also going to be frigid here this weekend. Thank goodness for Dave and Judy Meisel, our Lake neighbors, who have had my boat winterized, stored Den's boat battery, and regularly keep an eye on the house. It gives us several fewer problems to worry about.
We had a sad e-mail from Sabrina this morning. She is in California on business and called home last night to learn that Mrs. McLaren, her boys' wonderful second grade teacher had died. Sabrina asks that we all pray for Mrs. McLaren and the young children she left behind. She was a treasure.
There is nothing new to report about Den. He is about the same. Next Monday he will see the gastroenterologist who treated him at St. Mary's. Perhaps we will know more after that appointment.
Rose and I have been, (in our spare moments which aren't many what with all the 'work' we've had to do), organizing the Oakland House for Christmas guests. Or, for that matter, for any other time people want to come to town. We can put them here in the guest room or in what we have been calling the "Oakland Guest House." We may never sort through all the stuff that was in Den's Chicago stuido apartment. The movers, Doug, Scott K., Scott S., Chris, and Mark G., could not believe Den could get so much stuff in such a small space. Den has always been a pack rack.
We are hoping Joe Felin and some of his family will visit during this season. Joe called yesterday and talked about the possibility. Joe, room or house, both will be ready for you and yours.
Today is a Rose Work Day, and I will spend time with Den at the facility where Chris will call for me to take me for my own physical therapy in the afternoon. Rose has class tonight, and I plan to again spend time with Den.
Shirley travelled to Chicago yesterday, and Rose will go there on Saturday. I am sitting this trip out, staying instead with Chris and Shelley and with Margaret and Norman. I'm skipping this acupuncturist appointment AND the cold, windy Chicago weather.
It's also going to be frigid here this weekend. Thank goodness for Dave and Judy Meisel, our Lake neighbors, who have had my boat winterized, stored Den's boat battery, and regularly keep an eye on the house. It gives us several fewer problems to worry about.
Wednesday, December 15, 2004
You can reach Sue at (314) 452-3685 or (314) 726-2032. You can write to her c/o Rose Holt, 905 Barnard College Lane, St. Louis, MO 63130
By Monday afternoon Den was rallying. He was able to go to therapy and had resumed his grumbling about the place. At times he is confused, other times, totally lucid. He has been suffering anxiety attacks which, to him, are worse than his other ailments. Twice on Monday night, he fell, one in the shower and once while getting out of bed unaided. The big problem with falling beyond the obvious is that Den is on a blood thinner, and he could bleed internally.
He and his roommate, Henry, are both fishermen although Henry will not step into a boat. They entertain each other with whopper stories, and both are itching to 'wet their lines.' Den is fortunate to have such a great guy sharing the same room.
Catrina continues to advise us on our many insurance issues. She's quick to help, thorough in her answers, and if she can't answer immediately, gets back to me ASAP with all the details.
Kim, Aaron, Darrel, and Diane visited Den yesterday. Kim brings him tempting foods. Rose and Shirley keep his laundry done. Chris will set up his DVD/VCR when Den is able to make use of it.
Rose and I went over to the Oakland house yesterday to ready it just in case any of our Christmas visitors need a guest house. Monday I e-mailed Mark Goldman to see if he would set out the Oakland house trash cans next week. Mark teaches at a school just a stone's throw away. Bless his heart! Yesterday, trash day, Mark must have gone very early, set out the cans, and come back to put the cans away--all before Rose and I got there in the afternoon. Mark is organizing another small move--the extra double bed at the Oakland House to here.
We got Jalen's birthday package in the mail. He will be seven on December 23, and we will celebrate his birthday during Christmas week. Scott says Brayden is working on his toilet training but has not given up diapers as of yet.
That's all the news for now from Lake WOE-Be-Gone.
By Monday afternoon Den was rallying. He was able to go to therapy and had resumed his grumbling about the place. At times he is confused, other times, totally lucid. He has been suffering anxiety attacks which, to him, are worse than his other ailments. Twice on Monday night, he fell, one in the shower and once while getting out of bed unaided. The big problem with falling beyond the obvious is that Den is on a blood thinner, and he could bleed internally.
He and his roommate, Henry, are both fishermen although Henry will not step into a boat. They entertain each other with whopper stories, and both are itching to 'wet their lines.' Den is fortunate to have such a great guy sharing the same room.
Catrina continues to advise us on our many insurance issues. She's quick to help, thorough in her answers, and if she can't answer immediately, gets back to me ASAP with all the details.
Kim, Aaron, Darrel, and Diane visited Den yesterday. Kim brings him tempting foods. Rose and Shirley keep his laundry done. Chris will set up his DVD/VCR when Den is able to make use of it.
Rose and I went over to the Oakland house yesterday to ready it just in case any of our Christmas visitors need a guest house. Monday I e-mailed Mark Goldman to see if he would set out the Oakland house trash cans next week. Mark teaches at a school just a stone's throw away. Bless his heart! Yesterday, trash day, Mark must have gone very early, set out the cans, and come back to put the cans away--all before Rose and I got there in the afternoon. Mark is organizing another small move--the extra double bed at the Oakland House to here.
We got Jalen's birthday package in the mail. He will be seven on December 23, and we will celebrate his birthday during Christmas week. Scott says Brayden is working on his toilet training but has not given up diapers as of yet.
That's all the news for now from Lake WOE-Be-Gone.
Monday, December 13, 2004
You can reach Sue at (314) 452-3685 or (314) 726-2032. You can write to her c/o Rose Holt, 905 Barnard College Lane, St. Louis, MO 63130K
We continue to visit Den twice a day or more. He is not doing well. The food in the Barnes Jewish Extended Care Facility is poor, Den's appetite is off, and he's lost quite a bit of weight. Kim brings him his favorite food and encourages him to eat. Shirley keeps him supplied with his favorite chocolate chip ice cream. Kim brought a small Christmas tree for his room, this to follow-up the Thanksgiving theme she and her girls had done before. Rose and Kim keep his laundry done.
The staff at the facility encourage him to dress, stay up, and do his therapy. However, since he has been there (five days now), he has been too pooped to do much more than rest. Today he restarts his physical and speech therapy, so we are hoping for the kind of progress he was making at St. Mary's. Since last Tuesday, he just hasn't been well enough to take advantage of therapy.
Den had many visitors this weekend--Dale, Kathy, Rick, Denise, Lari, Jake, and perhaps others we don't know about.
Yesterday, Rose, Shirley, and I got our tree trimmed. Shirley baked and baked. All our shopping is done except for a few stocking stuffers. Now the task ahead, dauntingly ahead, is to get all this stuff wrapped.
After I hinted around with Margaret Anne in our phone conversation yesterday, she got the idea that I want some of her marshmellow FUDGE. She promised five pounds. Maybe it will fatten Den up some. God knows what it will do for Rose, Shirley, and me.
Pete and Janet were leaving Sunday morning to return to Idaho Falls for the holidays. Their plan was to drive straight through Nevada, not even stopping for gas.
Rose has taken on the task of finding a suitable bicycle for Jalen's Christmas present and has had a lot of fun doing so. She has been to every bike shop in St. Louis and one in Chicago. The purchase has been made along with a strong crash helmet. Jalen is only six and can already ride a two-wheeler. He loves to have his dad set up an 'challenge course' in their yard for him to maneuver. He is going to love this new bike.
Scott, Sherry and sons will arrive some time Christmas night. We plan to have the kids' Santa gifts under the tree when they get here.
Chris and Shelly are hosting our family gathering on the 26th. We hope Den will be well enough to attend. Den and I will have our Christmas with the Boaz kids on the 22nd. If he is unable to attend, we will move the party to the BJEC facility.
The stockings are hung by the chimney with care in hopes . . . . And, the wind blew, the chips flew, . . . .
We continue to visit Den twice a day or more. He is not doing well. The food in the Barnes Jewish Extended Care Facility is poor, Den's appetite is off, and he's lost quite a bit of weight. Kim brings him his favorite food and encourages him to eat. Shirley keeps him supplied with his favorite chocolate chip ice cream. Kim brought a small Christmas tree for his room, this to follow-up the Thanksgiving theme she and her girls had done before. Rose and Kim keep his laundry done.
The staff at the facility encourage him to dress, stay up, and do his therapy. However, since he has been there (five days now), he has been too pooped to do much more than rest. Today he restarts his physical and speech therapy, so we are hoping for the kind of progress he was making at St. Mary's. Since last Tuesday, he just hasn't been well enough to take advantage of therapy.
Den had many visitors this weekend--Dale, Kathy, Rick, Denise, Lari, Jake, and perhaps others we don't know about.
Yesterday, Rose, Shirley, and I got our tree trimmed. Shirley baked and baked. All our shopping is done except for a few stocking stuffers. Now the task ahead, dauntingly ahead, is to get all this stuff wrapped.
After I hinted around with Margaret Anne in our phone conversation yesterday, she got the idea that I want some of her marshmellow FUDGE. She promised five pounds. Maybe it will fatten Den up some. God knows what it will do for Rose, Shirley, and me.
Pete and Janet were leaving Sunday morning to return to Idaho Falls for the holidays. Their plan was to drive straight through Nevada, not even stopping for gas.
Rose has taken on the task of finding a suitable bicycle for Jalen's Christmas present and has had a lot of fun doing so. She has been to every bike shop in St. Louis and one in Chicago. The purchase has been made along with a strong crash helmet. Jalen is only six and can already ride a two-wheeler. He loves to have his dad set up an 'challenge course' in their yard for him to maneuver. He is going to love this new bike.
Scott, Sherry and sons will arrive some time Christmas night. We plan to have the kids' Santa gifts under the tree when they get here.
Chris and Shelly are hosting our family gathering on the 26th. We hope Den will be well enough to attend. Den and I will have our Christmas with the Boaz kids on the 22nd. If he is unable to attend, we will move the party to the BJEC facility.
The stockings are hung by the chimney with care in hopes . . . . And, the wind blew, the chips flew, . . . .
Friday, December 10, 2004
You can reach Sue at (314) 452-3685 or (314) 726-2032. You can write to her c/o Rose Holt, 905 Barnard College Lane, St. Louis, MO 63130
After an off day yesterday, Den is much improved today. Part of his problem is that he is not eating very well. He ate a light breakfast, passed on his lunch, ate some dinner, and then dove into a half-pint of Ben & Jerry's which Rose and Shirley brought him this evening.
Den's physician thinks the problem he is having of late has to do with his inability to metabolize some of his meds so the doctor has changed the meds. Den is better, enough so that today he has physical therapy, could get around with minimal help, and is in much better spirits. He is a bit of a Jekel and Hyde, and his Jekel is more in ascendency these days. Of course, Hyde is still a reality and very difficult to deal with. Both made their appearances today.
Den's mother, Evelyn, is very concerned about her eldest son. I can relate because if one of my sons were ill, I would be fretting day and night. Evelyn called today while I was out and talked with Rose. The two of them had a very good conversation. They both agree that a full understanding of Den's condition is good for everyone to have--especially his mama. Evelyn, it turns out, had spend several weeks in the St. Mary's Rehab facility so knew a good deal about it. She's quite a spunky gal, gets out a lot, is active in her church, does volunteer work, and generally enjoys life. She is a good example for all of us.
Shirley and I did some power shopping this morning, then Rose and Shirley power shopped this afternoon and evening while I spent time with Den. Rose, Shirley, and I just finished a late dinner and are now sorting and figuring on all the gifts we bought.
We had a really hilarious e-mail from Brother Joe today. However, if you have not been a member of this family for over 50 years, there is no way you could appreciate the humor. Rose and I had a great laugh together. White writing paper? Red tissue paper? Let's just say, Brother Joe NEVER forgets ANYTHING!
All you Dear Readers and friends of Dear Readers who might be in need of an automobile, please remember the Pontiac. See the entry from December 9 for particulars.
After an off day yesterday, Den is much improved today. Part of his problem is that he is not eating very well. He ate a light breakfast, passed on his lunch, ate some dinner, and then dove into a half-pint of Ben & Jerry's which Rose and Shirley brought him this evening.
Den's physician thinks the problem he is having of late has to do with his inability to metabolize some of his meds so the doctor has changed the meds. Den is better, enough so that today he has physical therapy, could get around with minimal help, and is in much better spirits. He is a bit of a Jekel and Hyde, and his Jekel is more in ascendency these days. Of course, Hyde is still a reality and very difficult to deal with. Both made their appearances today.
Den's mother, Evelyn, is very concerned about her eldest son. I can relate because if one of my sons were ill, I would be fretting day and night. Evelyn called today while I was out and talked with Rose. The two of them had a very good conversation. They both agree that a full understanding of Den's condition is good for everyone to have--especially his mama. Evelyn, it turns out, had spend several weeks in the St. Mary's Rehab facility so knew a good deal about it. She's quite a spunky gal, gets out a lot, is active in her church, does volunteer work, and generally enjoys life. She is a good example for all of us.
Shirley and I did some power shopping this morning, then Rose and Shirley power shopped this afternoon and evening while I spent time with Den. Rose, Shirley, and I just finished a late dinner and are now sorting and figuring on all the gifts we bought.
We had a really hilarious e-mail from Brother Joe today. However, if you have not been a member of this family for over 50 years, there is no way you could appreciate the humor. Rose and I had a great laugh together. White writing paper? Red tissue paper? Let's just say, Brother Joe NEVER forgets ANYTHING!
All you Dear Readers and friends of Dear Readers who might be in need of an automobile, please remember the Pontiac. See the entry from December 9 for particulars.
You can reach Sue at (314) 452-3685 or (314) 726-2032. You can write to her c/o Rose Holt, 905 Barnard College Lane, St. Louis, MO 63130
Kim and Aaron went to see their dad yesterday evening. He was still not doing well. He was very agitated about everything, having an anxiety attack, Aaron said. His roommate had a lot of company, and Den was exercised about all the people. Of course, Den had a ton of company himself yesterday--myself, his kids, Rose, Shirley.
Den can't receive phone calls right now but does appreciate cards and letters. His address is Barnes-Jewish Extended Care Facility, 401 Corporate Park, St. Louis, MO 63105, Room 229. His e-mail address is dlboaz@aol.com. We print out and give him his e-mails.
I went to physical therapy yesterday for only the second time in about two months. (Normally I go weekly.) The physical therapist was pleased with the ease with which I could walk without my cane and the level of strength in my legs. Even the receptionist noted improvement in my walking, saying when I came into the reception area, "Martha! Look at you! Where is your cane?"
I continue to marvel at the goodness of people, especially Rose and Shirley who have taken on the added task of ferrying me back and forth to see Den at least twice a day. Fortunately, the facility he is in is only two miles from our house. And my son, Chris: anytime we ask him to do something for us, his response is "No problem, Momma." We try not to lean on him and Shelly too much but their offer yesterday to host our family Christmas was over the top. We are sooooooo grateful.
We'll update again after we see how Den is today.
to whom it may concern: SUCH A DEAL! A 2005 PONTIAC GRAND PRIX. READ ALL ABOUT IT IN THE ENTRY OF DECEMBER 9.
Kim and Aaron went to see their dad yesterday evening. He was still not doing well. He was very agitated about everything, having an anxiety attack, Aaron said. His roommate had a lot of company, and Den was exercised about all the people. Of course, Den had a ton of company himself yesterday--myself, his kids, Rose, Shirley.
Den can't receive phone calls right now but does appreciate cards and letters. His address is Barnes-Jewish Extended Care Facility, 401 Corporate Park, St. Louis, MO 63105, Room 229. His e-mail address is dlboaz@aol.com. We print out and give him his e-mails.
I went to physical therapy yesterday for only the second time in about two months. (Normally I go weekly.) The physical therapist was pleased with the ease with which I could walk without my cane and the level of strength in my legs. Even the receptionist noted improvement in my walking, saying when I came into the reception area, "Martha! Look at you! Where is your cane?"
I continue to marvel at the goodness of people, especially Rose and Shirley who have taken on the added task of ferrying me back and forth to see Den at least twice a day. Fortunately, the facility he is in is only two miles from our house. And my son, Chris: anytime we ask him to do something for us, his response is "No problem, Momma." We try not to lean on him and Shelly too much but their offer yesterday to host our family Christmas was over the top. We are sooooooo grateful.
We'll update again after we see how Den is today.
to whom it may concern: SUCH A DEAL! A 2005 PONTIAC GRAND PRIX. READ ALL ABOUT IT IN THE ENTRY OF DECEMBER 9.
Thursday, December 09, 2004
You can reach Sue at (314) 452-3685 or (314) 726-2032. You can write to her c/o Rose Holt, 905 Barnard College Lane, St. Louis, MO 63130
Den is having some bad days. He had made enormous progress in physical rehab since his stroke but yesterday and today seems to have given it all back. We hope this is a temporary situation, one of the cyclical 'downs' you would expect under such circumstances. I will update as often as I can because I know a lot of people are concerned and are praying for the both of us.
A practical matter of concern: On October 30, just four days before he was stricken, Den bought a new car. It has become distressingly apparent that we need to sell the car ASAP. Neither of us can drive. Our medical bills are skyrocketting, and we can ill-afford it. I am posting the particulars here in case a Dear Reader might know of someone in the market for A Very Good Deal. You see, Den purchased the car using the GM Discount Privilege for eligible relatives I have from my days at GMAC. Selling the car before the six-month required ownership period could mean I will lose the privilege, but in my discussions with a GM representative an exception may be possible because of the extraordinary circumstances.
Anyway, the Car and the Deal:
Pontiac Grand Prix, 2005 Model, four-door sedan, black with dark pewter leather interior:
MSRP
Base Price.......... $26,560
Power Sun Roof.......... $895
Auto Dual Zone AC.......... $275
Leather Trim Pkg including
heated driver and front
passenger seats, leather
appointed seating, leather
trim pkg.......... $665
Premium Audio Pkg includes
in-dash six-disc CD
changer, 245 watt monsoon
nine speaker system .......... $695
Aluminun Wheels .......... $275
Competition Group includes:
P225/55VR17 Performance
Tires, 17" Aluminun Finish
Wheel, Magnasteer II, Stabilitrak
Sport, Tapshift, 3.29 Axle Ratio,
Trip Computer, Head-Up Display,
Red Painted Brake Calipers .......... $1395
Destination Charge.......... $660
Sub-TOTAL .......... $31420
Extended Warranty .......... 1500 [Transferable, if
new owner wishes]
=========
TOTAL .......... $32920
The car has less than 1,000 miles.
Our sales price: $29,810 with extended warranty; $28310 without extended warranty
The car will be stored at Midwest in St. Louis until it is sold.
Den is having some bad days. He had made enormous progress in physical rehab since his stroke but yesterday and today seems to have given it all back. We hope this is a temporary situation, one of the cyclical 'downs' you would expect under such circumstances. I will update as often as I can because I know a lot of people are concerned and are praying for the both of us.
A practical matter of concern: On October 30, just four days before he was stricken, Den bought a new car. It has become distressingly apparent that we need to sell the car ASAP. Neither of us can drive. Our medical bills are skyrocketting, and we can ill-afford it. I am posting the particulars here in case a Dear Reader might know of someone in the market for A Very Good Deal. You see, Den purchased the car using the GM Discount Privilege for eligible relatives I have from my days at GMAC. Selling the car before the six-month required ownership period could mean I will lose the privilege, but in my discussions with a GM representative an exception may be possible because of the extraordinary circumstances.
Anyway, the Car and the Deal:
Pontiac Grand Prix, 2005 Model, four-door sedan, black with dark pewter leather interior:
MSRP
Base Price.......... $26,560
Power Sun Roof.......... $895
Auto Dual Zone AC.......... $275
Leather Trim Pkg including
heated driver and front
passenger seats, leather
appointed seating, leather
trim pkg.......... $665
Premium Audio Pkg includes
in-dash six-disc CD
changer, 245 watt monsoon
nine speaker system .......... $695
Aluminun Wheels .......... $275
Competition Group includes:
P225/55VR17 Performance
Tires, 17" Aluminun Finish
Wheel, Magnasteer II, Stabilitrak
Sport, Tapshift, 3.29 Axle Ratio,
Trip Computer, Head-Up Display,
Red Painted Brake Calipers .......... $1395
Destination Charge.......... $660
Sub-TOTAL .......... $31420
Extended Warranty .......... 1500 [Transferable, if
new owner wishes]
=========
TOTAL .......... $32920
The car has less than 1,000 miles.
Our sales price: $29,810 with extended warranty; $28310 without extended warranty
The car will be stored at Midwest in St. Louis until it is sold.
Wednesday, December 08, 2004
You can reach Sue at (314) 452-3685 or (314) 726-2032. You can write to her c/o Rose Holt, 905 Barnard College Lane, St. Louis, MO 63130
It has been a busy week, and we haven't had time to update. On Saturday Rose and I drove to Chicago. Rose and Shirley went to the Chicago Jung Institute Christmas Party on Saturday evening. On Sunday the three of us spent almost the entire day looking for a new sofa to replace the threadbare one in their apartment. Finally, after an exhausting day, we decided the best bet was to try to get the old recovered.
On Monday Rose worked, Shirley flew home to St. Louis, and I saw my acupuncturist. On Tuesday I had appointments with Drs. Costas and O'Brien who are recommending I have another round of immuno-globulin infusions in January. The results of the first round were disappointing, but perhaps it is still too soon for any improvements to make their appearance. Both physicians were wonderful. O'Brien must be taking communications lessons from Costas or maybe he is just different when he isn't being tailed by half a dozen interns, hanging onto his every word.
Right after those appointments, Rose and I headed by car home to St. Louis. We went immediately to St. Mary's Rehab to visit with Den who continues to benefit from his physical and speech therapies. Kim and Sydney were there, visitors who always cheer Den and lift his spirits.
Today Den was transferred from St. Mary's a few blocks away to the Barnes-Jewish Extended Care Facility where he will continue to get therapy but not the intense nursing care he needed up til now. He was exhausted when we arrived there but rallied after a short rest and a good lunch. We don't yet know how long he will be in this facility. It looks to be a very good one and was highly recommended by the staff at St. Mary's.
Den is in Room 229, Barnes-Jewish Extended Care Facility, 401 Corporate Park Drive, St. Louis, 63105; Phone (314) 746-4242.
Shirley, Rose, and I found time this afternoon to buy our Christmas tree, a tall, slender, beautiful Frasier Fir. It is in the living room now, shaking out its limbs and drinking deeply from the tree stand.
We are really into Christmas this year, perhaps because we know better its meaning and perhaps circumstances help us to appreciate the season and our wondrous family all the more. In some ways it will be a 'scrimpy' year; in others the richest ever.
We are happy to report that Catrina's daughter Lizzie is much improved and is being treated for underlying asthma that was the cause of her symptoms, not pneumonia as was first thought. Catrina and Robbie are much relieved because they know exactly what they are dealing with so it is not so scary. Sam, too, suffers from asthma as so many young children do these days. Robbie's two fine sons will come in from Arizona over the holidays.
I've heard from Joe, Pete, and Bernie in recent days. Of course, we talk with Margaret almost daily and with her kids, my kids, and Den's kids almost daily.
It has been a busy week, and we haven't had time to update. On Saturday Rose and I drove to Chicago. Rose and Shirley went to the Chicago Jung Institute Christmas Party on Saturday evening. On Sunday the three of us spent almost the entire day looking for a new sofa to replace the threadbare one in their apartment. Finally, after an exhausting day, we decided the best bet was to try to get the old recovered.
On Monday Rose worked, Shirley flew home to St. Louis, and I saw my acupuncturist. On Tuesday I had appointments with Drs. Costas and O'Brien who are recommending I have another round of immuno-globulin infusions in January. The results of the first round were disappointing, but perhaps it is still too soon for any improvements to make their appearance. Both physicians were wonderful. O'Brien must be taking communications lessons from Costas or maybe he is just different when he isn't being tailed by half a dozen interns, hanging onto his every word.
Right after those appointments, Rose and I headed by car home to St. Louis. We went immediately to St. Mary's Rehab to visit with Den who continues to benefit from his physical and speech therapies. Kim and Sydney were there, visitors who always cheer Den and lift his spirits.
Today Den was transferred from St. Mary's a few blocks away to the Barnes-Jewish Extended Care Facility where he will continue to get therapy but not the intense nursing care he needed up til now. He was exhausted when we arrived there but rallied after a short rest and a good lunch. We don't yet know how long he will be in this facility. It looks to be a very good one and was highly recommended by the staff at St. Mary's.
Den is in Room 229, Barnes-Jewish Extended Care Facility, 401 Corporate Park Drive, St. Louis, 63105; Phone (314) 746-4242.
Shirley, Rose, and I found time this afternoon to buy our Christmas tree, a tall, slender, beautiful Frasier Fir. It is in the living room now, shaking out its limbs and drinking deeply from the tree stand.
We are really into Christmas this year, perhaps because we know better its meaning and perhaps circumstances help us to appreciate the season and our wondrous family all the more. In some ways it will be a 'scrimpy' year; in others the richest ever.
We are happy to report that Catrina's daughter Lizzie is much improved and is being treated for underlying asthma that was the cause of her symptoms, not pneumonia as was first thought. Catrina and Robbie are much relieved because they know exactly what they are dealing with so it is not so scary. Sam, too, suffers from asthma as so many young children do these days. Robbie's two fine sons will come in from Arizona over the holidays.
I've heard from Joe, Pete, and Bernie in recent days. Of course, we talk with Margaret almost daily and with her kids, my kids, and Den's kids almost daily.
Thursday, December 02, 2004
You can reach Sue at (314) 452-3685 or (314) 726-2032. You can write to her c/o Rose Holt, 905 Barnard College Lane, St. Louis, MO 63130
Thank God November is over! And that it has only 30 days. One more would have put me over the edge rather than teetering on the brink. On Saturday Rose and I will travel again to Chicago, she to work and I for a follow-up appointments with my two physicians there. We'll be back late Tuesday. Since neither Rose nor I will be here for those four days, any of you who can please visit Den for his days are long.
Yesterday Aaron was at the hospital when I couldn't be then ferried me there and Rose out to the car dealer to pick up her newly-serviced very old vehicle. He is a love. My Editor Son, Chris, AKA Ding, was on duty yesterday as well. He hauled Rose home after she dropped off her car and the two of them picked up lunch for us. Other loves, Doug, Mark Goldman, and Scott Kaenter, were at the hospital in the evening. And still other loves, son Mark and Karen, cooked us a lovely dinner. Rose and I felt like queens yesterday.
As we were leaving the hospital last night, Mark Goldman told us he was off for a dinner date with a new woman. I reminded him of Uncle Pete's advice: Remember, they are easier to get than to get rid of.
We are awaiting an update on Lizzie, Catrina's daughter who is once again in the hospital with pneumonia. She got very sick on Monday and ended up back at St. John's on Tuesday. Margaret told us yesterday that she is 'some better,' and may come home today. Lizzie will have to have some follow-up testing after she is well from this bout. Catrina and Robbie have surely had a trying time of late. We'll update after we know more today.
Shirley left for Chicago yesterday where she will work and rest up from our baby time. We loved having the little tyke and only had one traumatic event the whole time we had him. He locked himself in the first floor powder room with the light off. Immediately he started crying and getting upset, stopping only momentarily to cry out, "OSE!" OSE!" The stupid safety mechanism was broken so we couldn't free him. Shirley called 911 and had the police on the way. Rose worked on the lock and all three of us talked and talked to soothe Brayden. Of course, he was scared. Finally we just forced the lock and got him out, so we cancelled the police call. It took him a few moments to calm down. Actually, he returned to normal much faster than the three of us.
I gather from various conversations with the guys that the move out of Den's apartment was both a party and a Big Job. Den is a packrat, never throws away anything, and has two of most things. Doug says Den has at least one screwdriver in every drawer in any place Den lives.
Thank God November is over! And that it has only 30 days. One more would have put me over the edge rather than teetering on the brink. On Saturday Rose and I will travel again to Chicago, she to work and I for a follow-up appointments with my two physicians there. We'll be back late Tuesday. Since neither Rose nor I will be here for those four days, any of you who can please visit Den for his days are long.
Yesterday Aaron was at the hospital when I couldn't be then ferried me there and Rose out to the car dealer to pick up her newly-serviced very old vehicle. He is a love. My Editor Son, Chris, AKA Ding, was on duty yesterday as well. He hauled Rose home after she dropped off her car and the two of them picked up lunch for us. Other loves, Doug, Mark Goldman, and Scott Kaenter, were at the hospital in the evening. And still other loves, son Mark and Karen, cooked us a lovely dinner. Rose and I felt like queens yesterday.
As we were leaving the hospital last night, Mark Goldman told us he was off for a dinner date with a new woman. I reminded him of Uncle Pete's advice: Remember, they are easier to get than to get rid of.
We are awaiting an update on Lizzie, Catrina's daughter who is once again in the hospital with pneumonia. She got very sick on Monday and ended up back at St. John's on Tuesday. Margaret told us yesterday that she is 'some better,' and may come home today. Lizzie will have to have some follow-up testing after she is well from this bout. Catrina and Robbie have surely had a trying time of late. We'll update after we know more today.
Shirley left for Chicago yesterday where she will work and rest up from our baby time. We loved having the little tyke and only had one traumatic event the whole time we had him. He locked himself in the first floor powder room with the light off. Immediately he started crying and getting upset, stopping only momentarily to cry out, "OSE!" OSE!" The stupid safety mechanism was broken so we couldn't free him. Shirley called 911 and had the police on the way. Rose worked on the lock and all three of us talked and talked to soothe Brayden. Of course, he was scared. Finally we just forced the lock and got him out, so we cancelled the police call. It took him a few moments to calm down. Actually, he returned to normal much faster than the three of us.
I gather from various conversations with the guys that the move out of Den's apartment was both a party and a Big Job. Den is a packrat, never throws away anything, and has two of most things. Doug says Den has at least one screwdriver in every drawer in any place Den lives.
You can reach Sue at (314) 452-3685 or (314) 726-2032. You can write to her c/o Rose Holt, 905 Barnard College Lane, St. Louis, MO 63130
Hello from Rose. Ding is an awfully hard act to follow. The first thing I tried was adding our Thanksgiving Dinner photographs, but the only one that 'took' was Joel's. Tomorrow I'll try again to post many, many photos of our day together. It was a glorious one and one truly to be thankful for.
Den continues to improve. Seems there is a delicate balance to be maintained between Den's needs for physical and speech therapies and the insurance company's need to get him out of that place. So far Den's needs are winning out. He has had tons of company and is in pretty good spirits in spite of the labors of Hercules that his therapy places on him.
Sue is doing well. She spends as much time as she can with Den and is trying to manage all the nitty gritty detail of both their lives through this period. Aaron and Kim are able to fill in where Sue cannot. Den can be really proud of those two!
We've had Brayden since last Wednesday night, and that's why we haven't been blogging. With Brayden around, all we do is take care of him. He is such a dear little boy and such a joy. He's happy, has a sunny disposition, likes to skip along and sing, loves dogs and birds and squirrels, is shy with people, and now likes to be read to. We returned him to Daddy on Tuesday afternoon. In the days we had him, he probably cried a total of five minutes.
Hello from Rose. Ding is an awfully hard act to follow. The first thing I tried was adding our Thanksgiving Dinner photographs, but the only one that 'took' was Joel's. Tomorrow I'll try again to post many, many photos of our day together. It was a glorious one and one truly to be thankful for.
Den continues to improve. Seems there is a delicate balance to be maintained between Den's needs for physical and speech therapies and the insurance company's need to get him out of that place. So far Den's needs are winning out. He has had tons of company and is in pretty good spirits in spite of the labors of Hercules that his therapy places on him.
Sue is doing well. She spends as much time as she can with Den and is trying to manage all the nitty gritty detail of both their lives through this period. Aaron and Kim are able to fill in where Sue cannot. Den can be really proud of those two!
We've had Brayden since last Wednesday night, and that's why we haven't been blogging. With Brayden around, all we do is take care of him. He is such a dear little boy and such a joy. He's happy, has a sunny disposition, likes to skip along and sing, loves dogs and birds and squirrels, is shy with people, and now likes to be read to. We returned him to Daddy on Tuesday afternoon. In the days we had him, he probably cried a total of five minutes.
Wednesday, December 01, 2004
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