I remember like it was yesterday. Debbie Quebedeaux called me and woke me up with the news that we had been attacked. I stayed glued to the TV all day and cried. I cannot explain to someone who doesn't remember that day what it meant to me. Watching the towers collapse took my breath. I cried till my chest hurt. Watching the people leap from the windows taking their own lives devastated me but it was the last thing they had control of and made that horrific decision. We promised to never forget. We promised to never forget that Islamic Extremists want our country destroyed. We stood together holding our flags as we watched memorial service after memorial service. We grieved for people we didn't know as if they were family. We pulled together and we were proud to be Americans. I do not recognize our 2019 country . When Obama was elected in 2009 he promised to fundamentally transform the United States of America. He ushered in our rapid decent into the country that we are today. People bash President Trump but I voted for him and will do so again. God forbid if we have another 9/11 like incident. If we do the best man to deal with it would be Trump
.
On 9/11, 2001 we had an enemy. This enemy wanted to destroy us and drop us to our knees. This enemy had a face and an ideology. This enemy didn't realize that an all out attack against our country would galvanize and bring us together. What I see happening now is an internal attack against our morals, values, and our uniqueness that makes us the greatest country in the world. That damage done by this kind of attack may be permanent as we are complacent.
I will never forget and I will tell my grandchildren about that day. I will not give them a watered down version about what happened. I will tell them the day that America changed. We cannot take our eyes off of our freedom and allow others to take away what was given to us in the constitution. We can never forget. what Ronald Reagan said "Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction"
God Bless America
Tuesday, September 10, 2019
Thursday, May 30, 2019
RIP Stan. May 15, 2019
On May 12 Stan woke me up stating that he was either having a stroke or a heart attack. He has symptoms of both but typical of Stan refused to allow me to call an ambulance. He wanted me to take him to my hospital in Breaux Bridge but I nixed that and went to our "mother" hospital, Lafayette General. He was immediately taken into triage and his initial EKG was performed and was negative. They took him back to a room and he was seen by Dr. Shipley and the nursing staff. He presented with vague symptoms and right arm tingling and pain. At home he had vomited twice and had an episode of diarrhea. As it stood initially he could have had a stoke, heart attack or a GI bug. As we waited for tests his heart began to slow into a consistent bradycardia and his blood pressure was dropping. At one point he had a brief seizure lasting long enough for me to yell for help and it ceased. His head CT was negative and while it was apparent he was ill it was such a vague combination of symptoms that it was hard to pin down the cause. He got sick again. Then the pain started in his lower back and left hip area. The pain he was having was marked in intensity and something that I have never seen him experience. The presentation was also something that I have seen frequently in the ED as has his LGMC nurse Dani and the doctor suspected as well. Stan had a dissecting aneurysm. He went back to CT and our worse suspicions were confirmed. He had an aortic aneurysm but it was extensive from his aortic arch down his left iliac artery, from his aortic arch it bifurcated into both carotid arteries in his neck into his right innominate artery into his right brachial artery. He had to be transferred to St. Lukes hospital in Houston immediately. Stan understood the gravity of the situation and wanted to go he also made himself a "no code" in case the worse happened and he arrested. I cannot say enough words to express my gratitude to the staff of Lafayette General Emergency Department. Dani stayed with me as did Matt. Dr. Shipley was amazing to Stan and to Rebekah and me. She kept us informed and I could feel her empathy. Her knowledge was a comfort and I so appreciated her simple explanations and her direct eye contact. Yes I am a nurse but I was a family member of a critical patient and I was not processing some of what was being said. I was so very touched by every nurse that came in contact with us. They provided support and encouragement. Thank you from the bottom of my heart to everyone.
We had to go by ground ambulance because the weather was such that we could not fly. Prior to leaving he got to face time with Winston, Aries and Patton who told Papastan to get well, My thanks to the AASI crew as well who monitored him (and me) all the way to Houston. Rebekah was an hour behind. Stan was on several drips and was in control of his pain. He spoke to his friend Reno on the way and also spoke to Joshua. He told me that he was tired. The ride took about 3 and 1/2 hours. We were taken directly to the Intensive care unit and I was escorted out while they got him ready. Moments later they called me to the surgical hallway. I was panicked Rebekah was not there yet and she needed to see him one more time. They told me they could not wait. I called her and she spoke to him via phone. He said that he was ready if it was "his time", They took him away. I was cared for by his nurse January and she took me to breakfast explaining all the rules of the unit. She listened to me ramble and gave me the first of what was to amount to about a case of kleenix. I never seemed to have any with me. Rebekah and I waited nearly 14 hours for word. He was brought back to the ICU and Dr. Preventza came out to speak with us. She was very detailed and explained the extensive injury he survived. I was numb and she spoke mostly to Rebekah. I do remember that she said this was step one of 10. She explained what we should expect. We went back to see him and he was being cared for by two nurses. They explained what was going on and we touched him. They explained that they would be decreasing the sedative drip at 4am and that he would likely wake up a few hours later. That next morning we went to see him and he had not awakened. His basic reflexes were absent. The only time I regretted being a nurse was that morning I understood what the lack of those basic reflexes meant. The nurse however was encouraging in that she said that Dr. Preventza's patients were different. She explained that she would not be concerned for at least 24 hours of a non reflexive state. We visited him off and on all day. That night Rick Green flew in from Tulsa. Rick is the partner of my dear friend Bryan Wesson who is a D.NP. We didn't realize we needed Rick until we saw him. He took our minds off of everything and redirected us as only he can do. Rick heard things that I didn't, asked questions and got answers that I didn't know I needed. Rick I cannot thank you enough for the love and assistance your presence provided. That same night Dr. Michael Felton, his wife Maria and daughter Arianna, made a whirlwind trip to Houston to see "uncle Stan". Maria had assumed care of our 4 dogs while we were gone and again a gift that could never be repaid. Thank you sweet Maria. That Tuesday morning they informed us that he had gone into atrial fibrillation (RVR) that did not respond to cardioversion. His rate was controlled by another drip. They did a CT and an EEG to determine the reason Stan was not waking up. That afternoon we spoke with the Neurologist who gently informed us of his likely outcome. Rebekah and I made the difficult decision to remove the ventilator the next day. Our friend Kay McGuire came to be with us that morning. His nurse Brad informed us of each detailed step and for that I am so grateful. Stan once asked me why I sang Amazing Grace to all the babies( I cannot sing) I told him it was because it calmed them down and they went to sleep. So I found the song on line and played it while his heart slowed and stopped while we were there with him. Kay thank you so much for standing with us at that time.
To Brad Calhoun, Marvin Martinez, Jeannette Gemarino,Jacquelyn Allen, John Park, Audrey Garcia, and January Sintuphant. You are all gifted and have chosen the perfect profession. Your knowledge and compassion are such a balm for grieving family members. I don't know who said this to me but it needs to be said. While I was at his bedside talking to him I made the comment "why did we stay" she came up behind me and said "you are together for this moment, God knew what was ahead and that you were needed" Thank you. Brad you put up with us and with Rick. He had a great time razzing you and it made the day just a little brighter.
My final comments are directly related to his surgeon Dr. Preventza. She called me to express her sorrow at the situation. She sounded broken and I want her to know as I told her then that she is an incredible woman with such a gift. He survived his surgery, she repaired a terribly damaged arterial system. She possesses the tremendous ability to fix really broken people God surely works through her . Her team is unparalleled. Dr. Ceasar(forgive the spelling) was so very very kind to us. He was honest and direct which was a comfort.
I came home to my sister Patti Franklin who flew in from Illinois and gave us love and advice and to my friend Ruth Sutherland who came to put my house in order and keep me focused. Jill Forbes came to listen and to advise as well. My thanks to my CEO Karen Wyble who handled a problem for me. It made me smile when I heard her say UM HUM when I told her my problem. I knew it would be handled. My thanks to all the staff at St. Martin Hospital for covering me. I am so very grateful. I have forgotten so many people who have gifted Rebekah, Joshua, and me with help and love to those people thank you.
To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heavens...... Ecclesiastes 3:1-8
Rest in peace Stan and God's speed.
We had to go by ground ambulance because the weather was such that we could not fly. Prior to leaving he got to face time with Winston, Aries and Patton who told Papastan to get well, My thanks to the AASI crew as well who monitored him (and me) all the way to Houston. Rebekah was an hour behind. Stan was on several drips and was in control of his pain. He spoke to his friend Reno on the way and also spoke to Joshua. He told me that he was tired. The ride took about 3 and 1/2 hours. We were taken directly to the Intensive care unit and I was escorted out while they got him ready. Moments later they called me to the surgical hallway. I was panicked Rebekah was not there yet and she needed to see him one more time. They told me they could not wait. I called her and she spoke to him via phone. He said that he was ready if it was "his time", They took him away. I was cared for by his nurse January and she took me to breakfast explaining all the rules of the unit. She listened to me ramble and gave me the first of what was to amount to about a case of kleenix. I never seemed to have any with me. Rebekah and I waited nearly 14 hours for word. He was brought back to the ICU and Dr. Preventza came out to speak with us. She was very detailed and explained the extensive injury he survived. I was numb and she spoke mostly to Rebekah. I do remember that she said this was step one of 10. She explained what we should expect. We went back to see him and he was being cared for by two nurses. They explained what was going on and we touched him. They explained that they would be decreasing the sedative drip at 4am and that he would likely wake up a few hours later. That next morning we went to see him and he had not awakened. His basic reflexes were absent. The only time I regretted being a nurse was that morning I understood what the lack of those basic reflexes meant. The nurse however was encouraging in that she said that Dr. Preventza's patients were different. She explained that she would not be concerned for at least 24 hours of a non reflexive state. We visited him off and on all day. That night Rick Green flew in from Tulsa. Rick is the partner of my dear friend Bryan Wesson who is a D.NP. We didn't realize we needed Rick until we saw him. He took our minds off of everything and redirected us as only he can do. Rick heard things that I didn't, asked questions and got answers that I didn't know I needed. Rick I cannot thank you enough for the love and assistance your presence provided. That same night Dr. Michael Felton, his wife Maria and daughter Arianna, made a whirlwind trip to Houston to see "uncle Stan". Maria had assumed care of our 4 dogs while we were gone and again a gift that could never be repaid. Thank you sweet Maria. That Tuesday morning they informed us that he had gone into atrial fibrillation (RVR) that did not respond to cardioversion. His rate was controlled by another drip. They did a CT and an EEG to determine the reason Stan was not waking up. That afternoon we spoke with the Neurologist who gently informed us of his likely outcome. Rebekah and I made the difficult decision to remove the ventilator the next day. Our friend Kay McGuire came to be with us that morning. His nurse Brad informed us of each detailed step and for that I am so grateful. Stan once asked me why I sang Amazing Grace to all the babies( I cannot sing) I told him it was because it calmed them down and they went to sleep. So I found the song on line and played it while his heart slowed and stopped while we were there with him. Kay thank you so much for standing with us at that time.
To Brad Calhoun, Marvin Martinez, Jeannette Gemarino,Jacquelyn Allen, John Park, Audrey Garcia, and January Sintuphant. You are all gifted and have chosen the perfect profession. Your knowledge and compassion are such a balm for grieving family members. I don't know who said this to me but it needs to be said. While I was at his bedside talking to him I made the comment "why did we stay" she came up behind me and said "you are together for this moment, God knew what was ahead and that you were needed" Thank you. Brad you put up with us and with Rick. He had a great time razzing you and it made the day just a little brighter.
My final comments are directly related to his surgeon Dr. Preventza. She called me to express her sorrow at the situation. She sounded broken and I want her to know as I told her then that she is an incredible woman with such a gift. He survived his surgery, she repaired a terribly damaged arterial system. She possesses the tremendous ability to fix really broken people God surely works through her . Her team is unparalleled. Dr. Ceasar(forgive the spelling) was so very very kind to us. He was honest and direct which was a comfort.
I came home to my sister Patti Franklin who flew in from Illinois and gave us love and advice and to my friend Ruth Sutherland who came to put my house in order and keep me focused. Jill Forbes came to listen and to advise as well. My thanks to my CEO Karen Wyble who handled a problem for me. It made me smile when I heard her say UM HUM when I told her my problem. I knew it would be handled. My thanks to all the staff at St. Martin Hospital for covering me. I am so very grateful. I have forgotten so many people who have gifted Rebekah, Joshua, and me with help and love to those people thank you.
To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heavens...... Ecclesiastes 3:1-8
Rest in peace Stan and God's speed.
Monday, September 10, 2018
To My Babies Sept 11, 2018
My dearest grandchildren every year this time I find myself glued to the TV and in tears over an event that happened 17 years ago. Aster, Patton, and Winston your mommy was only 19 years old and wasn't even dating your daddy yet. Allison and Aries your daddy was 24 years old and he didn't even know your mommy. I was home in bed after working a night shift when Granny Debbie Quibedeaux called, woke me up and told me to turn on the TV that America was under attack. I got up went to the TV in time to see the second tower get hit. In New York City there were two big tall towers called the World Trade Centre. Some very bad men learned how to fly planes and took over several big airplanes. They had decided to commit a very bad act called terrorism. These men are called terrorists and they wanted to destroy our country in the name of their religion Islam. Not all people who are Islamic are bad people but many in their religion believe that the way we live our lives is evil and their God was calling for us to be destroyed. Many people died that day in the towers. It was so scary for me to sit and watch it on the TV I cried and cried. In another part of the country another airplane had been taken over and these bad men crashed it into the Pentagon, an important place for all of our military. Another plane was taken over and supposed to fly into Washington but the brave men and women on board took the plane back and it crashed. On that day so many people died and each year I remember my feelings on that day. I also remember seeing many of our Congressmen & Representatives together on the steps of the Capitol building United as one, over grief, for those that died. They demonstrated strength and resolve on that day. And I will never forget when they broke out and sang God Bless America. They were not Democrats or Republicans they were Americans and all their differences were put aside. I can honestly say that this was the last time I ever saw our country come together unified like it was on that day. I hope when you are older you will study about this day and what it meant to America. We cannot forget. As long as I'm alive I will take time out of my day on September 11th to remember and honor those that died in the attacks. I will remember and try to pass on to you all that our freedoms in this country are very rare and precious and we have to preserve them. I pray that you my darling babies will NEVER have to go through anything bad like this. I always want you to remember that you have to stand tall and strong and defend our freedom in actions and words. America is a precious country, one that I have loved for as long as I can remember. I pray that I will be able to pass on to you this love and help you understand how great America really is.
I love you all to the moon and back forever and ever,
Mimi
I love you all to the moon and back forever and ever,
Mimi
Saturday, May 12, 2018
Happy Mother's Day 2018
My mother went home to Jesus on Mother's Day 2002. So many years have gone by and I still miss her. So many times I think I need to call Mom and tell her about a situation that is going on. I think I have blogged before that when I am going through something troubling she will come to me in my dreams. She listens to me tell her what is wrong and I can "hear" her advise me although I never can remember seeing her lips move. She sits there with this kind expression on her face and her thoughts are mine. I have my answer and I turn to hug her and she is gone. I always wake up grieved that instead of talking I should have just hugged her. The logical answer of course is that I knew her so well and knew what she would say in most situations that my dream is just my subconscious acting on previously stored "mom" information. I CHOOSE not to be logical. She has come to me in dreams and during my last surgery. For these many moments my Mom was there for me as she was in life.
I think the hope of all moms is that they leave a lasting impression on their young and hopefully a good one. I hope that my children and grandchildren will look back on my life and tell funny stories, laugh, and talk about my eccentricities, my fear of spiders and flying. I want them to keep me alive through the next generation and if I am really lucky the generation after that. I know some of the negative things that will be told there as well. I am not perfect. I worked too much and too long. I have so many regrets that I did not take more time with both of my children. Looking back I made so many mistakes. I love Joshua and Rebekah with so much love it makes my heart hurt. I now know that agony that my mom felt when something happened to one of us. I still want to make things right for both of my kids and I am wrong, they are out of my nest and into their own. They have their own children and I am in awe that they both are excellent parents. My mom used to say to me you are still and will always be my baby no matter your age. That is how I feel. I still want to slay all their dragons. I am joyous that my grandchildren love me. That is such a special kind of love: freely given, honestly expressed and full of that special something that only a child can give.
I had so many "moms" that helped me in the rearing of my children. Georgia Satterfield Shimkus was my support system with Josh and I wrote a previous blog about her. I was a new mom and she was there and loved my son with me. When Becky came along Ruth Knol Sutherland taught me that all food groups could be found in fruit roll ups, marshmallows, Twizzlers, raisins, and chased with Vitamin C. My children were her children and vice versa. Kay McGuire gave Josh a
Gordon Setter for his 12th birthday and encouraged him to show said dog. He was so shy and I still have a picture with Jezzy the dog, the Judge holding Jezzy's winning ribbon and Joshua looking like he was in melt down mode. She has watched both my kids grow with exasperation and love. Jojo Lapp not only was in the delivery room when I had Rebekah but has given me most of the Christmas traditions that I still try to honor She really does Christmas the best and my kids are doing some of those same things for their kids and probably don't realize that it started with JoJo. Jill Forbes is the Nan to Patton Lee. Patton is one of the twins and is adored by his Nanny. She equally loves Winston and Aster as well. She is "aunt" to Joshua and Rebekah. Maria Felton came into my life about 15 years ago. She has provided untold advice, love and support to my family and loves my grandchildren, Her daughter Arianna is like another grandchild to me and I stand by with so much pride at all her successes. So many women have had so much impact on my children and grandchildren. To all those women I wish you love on this day and great thanks for the love and care you selflessly gave to me and mine. My prayer is that you realize just how much you did do and realize just how important you are.
To my sister Patti who raised her two "babies" to successful adulthood. I love you and know that you miss mom just like I do. She loved us all so very much.
Happy Mother's Day
I think the hope of all moms is that they leave a lasting impression on their young and hopefully a good one. I hope that my children and grandchildren will look back on my life and tell funny stories, laugh, and talk about my eccentricities, my fear of spiders and flying. I want them to keep me alive through the next generation and if I am really lucky the generation after that. I know some of the negative things that will be told there as well. I am not perfect. I worked too much and too long. I have so many regrets that I did not take more time with both of my children. Looking back I made so many mistakes. I love Joshua and Rebekah with so much love it makes my heart hurt. I now know that agony that my mom felt when something happened to one of us. I still want to make things right for both of my kids and I am wrong, they are out of my nest and into their own. They have their own children and I am in awe that they both are excellent parents. My mom used to say to me you are still and will always be my baby no matter your age. That is how I feel. I still want to slay all their dragons. I am joyous that my grandchildren love me. That is such a special kind of love: freely given, honestly expressed and full of that special something that only a child can give.
I had so many "moms" that helped me in the rearing of my children. Georgia Satterfield Shimkus was my support system with Josh and I wrote a previous blog about her. I was a new mom and she was there and loved my son with me. When Becky came along Ruth Knol Sutherland taught me that all food groups could be found in fruit roll ups, marshmallows, Twizzlers, raisins, and chased with Vitamin C. My children were her children and vice versa. Kay McGuire gave Josh a
Gordon Setter for his 12th birthday and encouraged him to show said dog. He was so shy and I still have a picture with Jezzy the dog, the Judge holding Jezzy's winning ribbon and Joshua looking like he was in melt down mode. She has watched both my kids grow with exasperation and love. Jojo Lapp not only was in the delivery room when I had Rebekah but has given me most of the Christmas traditions that I still try to honor She really does Christmas the best and my kids are doing some of those same things for their kids and probably don't realize that it started with JoJo. Jill Forbes is the Nan to Patton Lee. Patton is one of the twins and is adored by his Nanny. She equally loves Winston and Aster as well. She is "aunt" to Joshua and Rebekah. Maria Felton came into my life about 15 years ago. She has provided untold advice, love and support to my family and loves my grandchildren, Her daughter Arianna is like another grandchild to me and I stand by with so much pride at all her successes. So many women have had so much impact on my children and grandchildren. To all those women I wish you love on this day and great thanks for the love and care you selflessly gave to me and mine. My prayer is that you realize just how much you did do and realize just how important you are.
To my sister Patti who raised her two "babies" to successful adulthood. I love you and know that you miss mom just like I do. She loved us all so very much.
Happy Mother's Day
Tuesday, May 8, 2018
Rev. Hans Klee, Hoge Church, Ina Lee and the War on Christianity
When I get the urge to write something personal it usually comes to me in the night in dreams. I had a dream about an incident that involved my mom. I woke up crying remembering the situation and felt that I needed to put this down for my family history and how Christianity came under attack in my family over 40 years ago. I wanted to discuss this with my sister Patti before I started this journey down a painful lane and was surprised when she told me that she had discussed the same incident with an acquaintance I think she said a week before. I was crying as I was talking with her and she provided me facts that I had forgotten and I was able to establish a timeline. Follow with me as I provide a background to our church history.
My earliest memory of a Minister was Rev Calvin Didier. I still remember a sermon that he gave telling us that death was like a "come as you are party". In other words you are taken from this earth and the judgement begins you don't get a chance to change after you are gone. I was probably about 8 years old and the words didn't scare me but they have stayed with me all these years. After he left we were lead by Rev. Gish for many years. He was a godly man and a shepherd to our flock. I remember his eyes. They were so very kind. He also rescued a group of our Seniors(me included) when we were detained by the sheriff department for a poorly planned band and Wesket initiation. During the time of his time a prayer group was formed. We met once a week prayed, studied the bible, and witnessed miracles. No one to this day can tell me that miracles do not happen.... they do I was there. Our leaders were Bill and Mavis Hankey. Rev Gish came a few times but deferred to Bill in the teaching aspect as I remember. I was a born again Christian washed in the blood of my Savior, and was blessed that this group was part of our church and could feed this fledgling baby. Mom and I were always there. Mavis gave a prophecy at one meeting stating that the tine would come when we would be scattered in all directions.
My mom was the secretary of the church starting during Rev. Didier's time and was a fixture. I spent many many many days after school at the church. When a new minister is needed they sent out a group of people to visit other churches( now this part is sketchy so bear with me if I am not stating completely accurate facts as to the choosing) If they like the pastor he is invited back to speak to our church and he is voted by the congregation. They found a Pastor and he was interested and came to speak to our church, I remember that I cried because this was a born again christian. His sermon only needed an altar call. As I recall he was voted in but turned down the position after a night of prayer with his wife. God didn't want him there. Mom said that he felt the church was dying( and that is not a quote but when she told me she cried) We were devastated. The next selection was a man named Rev. Hans Klee(pronounced clay) His first sermon he held up a voodoo/African type mask that was frightening to see. He said it would hang outside his office to "ward off evil spirits" I exited the church prior to the end of his sermon. I don't remember how long he was there before he started coming to our prayer group and basically took over. We submitted to his authority and he eventually stopped coming and things resumed. I had no idea this prayer group was such a thorn in his side. I was a deacon in the church and occasional taught Sunday school for the babies.
One night he and several men from church came to my home to talk with my mom. He did all the talking. He informed my mom that he was aware of every penny she had and what she needed to survive and that she had a decision to make. She would stop associating with the prayer group or be fired. I remember seeing one of the men look at another with a questioning look I think he was surprised at that statement but I will never know. I wanted to shout at them. She has been your friend. She has helped you, loved you all for years and this is what is allowed. He looked at me and put his filthy evil hands on my shoulder and said to me "we have no problem with you at all you can continue to teach and be a deacon" My response was "you have insulted me. The Jesus that you see in my mom and hate you should be able to see in me. I need to return to prayer for an infilling of the spirit" I told them they had to leave and that BASTARD leaned down and told my mom if you contact any of your "friends" I will know even on your home phone and I WILL fire you". Then they left. I shut the door and found my mom sitting on the steps leading to our upstairs with her hands covering her face shaking. I had never seen my mom like that. My first thought was to call Mavis that we needed prayer. Mom was shaking and yelled "NO NO NO he will find out he will know" My next memory from that night was several people from the prayer group showed up...don't know who called them or how they knew but they prayed with her and provided her with courage and I felt God that night cover my house with his peace and love. My brave courageous Mom without a job in sight told that evil man that she had no intention to quit the prayer group. What my sister Patti reminded me was that he was unable to fire her that it had to be done by the Elders of the church and they refused. Mom miraculously found another job that was excellent for her. God delivered her from evil and gave her such a gift that paid better with great benefits!!
My mom was a testimony to God's love and grace and when I walked away for a time she prayed me through. She prayed my son through a very difficult time and called him at the time that it was life and death for him. She adored her family and spent time on her knees for all of us.She would be very upset at the anger I feel as I am writing about that evil man. My sister found out he passed on some time ago. I honestly hope that he found Jesus before he died. I am sitting here crying as I am writing and I am experiencing a lifting of the heaviness on my heart.
The last thing I want to to say is yes there is a war going on, for our families, our hearts, our identities and our souls. We cannot allow this to happen. This is not political about the qualifications of our President. It's closer to home. It's the indoctrination of our children. The fact that we cannot come against things that we do not believe because the liberal leaning population attack like rabid dogs. I could go on for pages and will at a later date.
I love you mom and miss you every day. You have come to me in my times of need in the twilight of my nights and apparently during the surgery. You always leave me with peace but I would give just about anything to hug you again. I loved you so much
My earliest memory of a Minister was Rev Calvin Didier. I still remember a sermon that he gave telling us that death was like a "come as you are party". In other words you are taken from this earth and the judgement begins you don't get a chance to change after you are gone. I was probably about 8 years old and the words didn't scare me but they have stayed with me all these years. After he left we were lead by Rev. Gish for many years. He was a godly man and a shepherd to our flock. I remember his eyes. They were so very kind. He also rescued a group of our Seniors(me included) when we were detained by the sheriff department for a poorly planned band and Wesket initiation. During the time of his time a prayer group was formed. We met once a week prayed, studied the bible, and witnessed miracles. No one to this day can tell me that miracles do not happen.... they do I was there. Our leaders were Bill and Mavis Hankey. Rev Gish came a few times but deferred to Bill in the teaching aspect as I remember. I was a born again Christian washed in the blood of my Savior, and was blessed that this group was part of our church and could feed this fledgling baby. Mom and I were always there. Mavis gave a prophecy at one meeting stating that the tine would come when we would be scattered in all directions.
My mom was the secretary of the church starting during Rev. Didier's time and was a fixture. I spent many many many days after school at the church. When a new minister is needed they sent out a group of people to visit other churches( now this part is sketchy so bear with me if I am not stating completely accurate facts as to the choosing) If they like the pastor he is invited back to speak to our church and he is voted by the congregation. They found a Pastor and he was interested and came to speak to our church, I remember that I cried because this was a born again christian. His sermon only needed an altar call. As I recall he was voted in but turned down the position after a night of prayer with his wife. God didn't want him there. Mom said that he felt the church was dying( and that is not a quote but when she told me she cried) We were devastated. The next selection was a man named Rev. Hans Klee(pronounced clay) His first sermon he held up a voodoo/African type mask that was frightening to see. He said it would hang outside his office to "ward off evil spirits" I exited the church prior to the end of his sermon. I don't remember how long he was there before he started coming to our prayer group and basically took over. We submitted to his authority and he eventually stopped coming and things resumed. I had no idea this prayer group was such a thorn in his side. I was a deacon in the church and occasional taught Sunday school for the babies.
One night he and several men from church came to my home to talk with my mom. He did all the talking. He informed my mom that he was aware of every penny she had and what she needed to survive and that she had a decision to make. She would stop associating with the prayer group or be fired. I remember seeing one of the men look at another with a questioning look I think he was surprised at that statement but I will never know. I wanted to shout at them. She has been your friend. She has helped you, loved you all for years and this is what is allowed. He looked at me and put his filthy evil hands on my shoulder and said to me "we have no problem with you at all you can continue to teach and be a deacon" My response was "you have insulted me. The Jesus that you see in my mom and hate you should be able to see in me. I need to return to prayer for an infilling of the spirit" I told them they had to leave and that BASTARD leaned down and told my mom if you contact any of your "friends" I will know even on your home phone and I WILL fire you". Then they left. I shut the door and found my mom sitting on the steps leading to our upstairs with her hands covering her face shaking. I had never seen my mom like that. My first thought was to call Mavis that we needed prayer. Mom was shaking and yelled "NO NO NO he will find out he will know" My next memory from that night was several people from the prayer group showed up...don't know who called them or how they knew but they prayed with her and provided her with courage and I felt God that night cover my house with his peace and love. My brave courageous Mom without a job in sight told that evil man that she had no intention to quit the prayer group. What my sister Patti reminded me was that he was unable to fire her that it had to be done by the Elders of the church and they refused. Mom miraculously found another job that was excellent for her. God delivered her from evil and gave her such a gift that paid better with great benefits!!
My mom was a testimony to God's love and grace and when I walked away for a time she prayed me through. She prayed my son through a very difficult time and called him at the time that it was life and death for him. She adored her family and spent time on her knees for all of us.She would be very upset at the anger I feel as I am writing about that evil man. My sister found out he passed on some time ago. I honestly hope that he found Jesus before he died. I am sitting here crying as I am writing and I am experiencing a lifting of the heaviness on my heart.
The last thing I want to to say is yes there is a war going on, for our families, our hearts, our identities and our souls. We cannot allow this to happen. This is not political about the qualifications of our President. It's closer to home. It's the indoctrination of our children. The fact that we cannot come against things that we do not believe because the liberal leaning population attack like rabid dogs. I could go on for pages and will at a later date.
I love you mom and miss you every day. You have come to me in my times of need in the twilight of my nights and apparently during the surgery. You always leave me with peace but I would give just about anything to hug you again. I loved you so much
Monday, May 7, 2018
LGMC, HIP REMOVAL, AND GETTING OLDER
In one week it will have been a year since I blogged. I am a poor excuse for a Mimi because I write mostly for my kids and my grand kids so that they can look back when I am gone and have an idea as to who I am, what I believed and loved. There is a lot of other reasons too but just understand that I am glad that others read what I write but it really is for my babies.
I had my left hip removed by Dr. Scott Yerger in Lafayette Louisiana on April 19, 2018. My pre surgical experience up to and including my stay at Lafayette General and my post surgical experience have been excellent. Dr. Yerger starts sending out emails to you with a ton of educational information and check lists weeks before you go into the hospital. If you do not take advantage of the opportunity that he provides then you are an idiot. The only excuse is if you do not have internet abilities and I bet that the office has answers for that as well. The staff is gracious, available to answer questions, and are quick to respond to any problems that you might have. My pre check in at the Pace clinic was awesome. I am a Registered Nurse with nearly 44 years of experience. As a patient I am a moron. I know just enough to make myself dangerous. The pace nurse went over everything with direct eye contact that made me feel that I was so very important to her personally. The day of surgery I was terrified. I was having a spinal instead of general anesthesia and I am fricken terrified of needles especially those that are big enough to go into my spine. The anesthesiologist promised me he was going to give me bravery juice. The only thing I remember was sitting at the side of the bed in the suite and a WONDERFUL African American man held me. I cannot tell you what he did or said but he made me feel safe. His name started with a D I think. You sir are a wonderful man .. take that into your heart that what ever you said or did made this terrified lady feel safe and whenever I tell this story I cry. I cannot tell you what happened until I woke up unable to move my legs in recovery. Becky said the surgery was short but I was in recovery a long time waiting on a bed. At one time I was scared and I couldn't seem to get attention. I am not even sure I was actually summoning anyone. I was panicking in my mind and my mother came to me she stroked my hair back and said you are going to be fine. My mom has been dead for over 15 years. No I am not nuts..... well not completely. Shortly afterwards Becky came through the door...then I felt my world was righted.
As soon as I was able to move my toes they got me up and I walked down the hallway. I was amazed at the lack of pain but apparently they shoot you up at the site so that you CAN get up and move without too much pain.... smart people. The nurses on the 4th floor all deserve the Heart of Nursing award. Every contact I had including housekeeping, dietary, nursing assistance and nursing staff are star performers. They were caring, intuitive, kind and professional. ALL OF THEM. The NP on the floor was an angel as well.
I did not go home till Saturday I had vomiting issues. Other than that I felt my pain was in control. Through the PT and OT staff I learned to put on shoes, socks and pick up things off the floor. I learned how to get in and out of a car and the "never -dos" in relation to my healing hip.I went to Becky's to recover and really don't remember a lot about the first few days except she kept my medications up to date and bathed me. It is difficult to explain that this care that I have received at her home by her hands has been excellent. She handles so much and I think it was a lot like having another child. I had gained 20 lbs even after vomiting and was horrified until I really looked at my left buttock. I put the Kardashians to shame. My left buttock was huge as was my left leg. It was high and hard as a rock compared to my right soft grandma butt. Since that time I am about 5 lbs nearer my pre surg weight.
Narcotics: do not like them do not want them, took them anyway. I did get 5 days of Toradol which is a godsend. Beats the hell out of any narcotic for pain control. My daughter kept me medicated and then we started cutting back. I knew what was working and what wasn't. For me Norco sucks for actual pain control and it backs you up. I sort of forgot I had not pooed in a week. I was taking stool softeners but those pesky Norcos just overrule your bowels. I will not go into graphic detail but ducolax works I had to take several. Problem solved. I cried non stop the first week. I could not stop the most ridiculous things would set me off . I think I dehydrated myself.
I am having physical therapy and they are the bomb as well. If they are being honest I am doing very well. When I get home my leg and hip spasm it is not painful as much as uncomfortable and it follows me into the night in bed. I take a single Valium at night with motrin and my baby aspirin and I am able to sleep. Bad as I hate Norco let me tell you Valium rocks. This also is being weaned down. I will probably need something for the spasms in the next few weeks because they happen every night but it cannot be Valium. I like it too much.
So many people went out of their way to think of me. My friend Jojo sent me a recliner....... can you believe that!!!! Debi cooked me an entire meal for my family with desert that was wonderful, Kay sent me flowers and Ria brought some my first day and checked on me. My niece sent me an edible arrangement as did my sister in law Elaine. My Louisiana sister Jill babysat me as did Janet. Glenda got me a bottle of wine and a "hip Kit" and has taken me to the store and to therapy and has made me nearly pee myself please see my posting on Facebook about our shopping trip, Joshua is taking me to therapy as well and providing me with encouragement. My dear neighbor Maria and her daughter Arianna visited me and Maria has taken me to therapy several times and to the store. Then her husband Michael made me soup. So many many kindnesses and I am humbled by the love.
I now have my first fake part if you don't count the boobs, teeth crowns, and wigs. This is my first real geriatric part, my entry to the club of elders , the first of what will probably be a repeat in the next few years on my right hip. I am getting older and each day wake up and thank God that I still am alive and kicking. I have so many things to be grateful for and go to sleep thinking about them.
To Rebekah and Shane thank you for opening your home and your hearts to a partially disabled Mimi and I will never ever forget what you have done for me. I wait each day for the twins to get home to see "mimi's booboo" then they share the booboos that they have acquired during the day.
God is good.
I had my left hip removed by Dr. Scott Yerger in Lafayette Louisiana on April 19, 2018. My pre surgical experience up to and including my stay at Lafayette General and my post surgical experience have been excellent. Dr. Yerger starts sending out emails to you with a ton of educational information and check lists weeks before you go into the hospital. If you do not take advantage of the opportunity that he provides then you are an idiot. The only excuse is if you do not have internet abilities and I bet that the office has answers for that as well. The staff is gracious, available to answer questions, and are quick to respond to any problems that you might have. My pre check in at the Pace clinic was awesome. I am a Registered Nurse with nearly 44 years of experience. As a patient I am a moron. I know just enough to make myself dangerous. The pace nurse went over everything with direct eye contact that made me feel that I was so very important to her personally. The day of surgery I was terrified. I was having a spinal instead of general anesthesia and I am fricken terrified of needles especially those that are big enough to go into my spine. The anesthesiologist promised me he was going to give me bravery juice. The only thing I remember was sitting at the side of the bed in the suite and a WONDERFUL African American man held me. I cannot tell you what he did or said but he made me feel safe. His name started with a D I think. You sir are a wonderful man .. take that into your heart that what ever you said or did made this terrified lady feel safe and whenever I tell this story I cry. I cannot tell you what happened until I woke up unable to move my legs in recovery. Becky said the surgery was short but I was in recovery a long time waiting on a bed. At one time I was scared and I couldn't seem to get attention. I am not even sure I was actually summoning anyone. I was panicking in my mind and my mother came to me she stroked my hair back and said you are going to be fine. My mom has been dead for over 15 years. No I am not nuts..... well not completely. Shortly afterwards Becky came through the door...then I felt my world was righted.
As soon as I was able to move my toes they got me up and I walked down the hallway. I was amazed at the lack of pain but apparently they shoot you up at the site so that you CAN get up and move without too much pain.... smart people. The nurses on the 4th floor all deserve the Heart of Nursing award. Every contact I had including housekeeping, dietary, nursing assistance and nursing staff are star performers. They were caring, intuitive, kind and professional. ALL OF THEM. The NP on the floor was an angel as well.
I did not go home till Saturday I had vomiting issues. Other than that I felt my pain was in control. Through the PT and OT staff I learned to put on shoes, socks and pick up things off the floor. I learned how to get in and out of a car and the "never -dos" in relation to my healing hip.I went to Becky's to recover and really don't remember a lot about the first few days except she kept my medications up to date and bathed me. It is difficult to explain that this care that I have received at her home by her hands has been excellent. She handles so much and I think it was a lot like having another child. I had gained 20 lbs even after vomiting and was horrified until I really looked at my left buttock. I put the Kardashians to shame. My left buttock was huge as was my left leg. It was high and hard as a rock compared to my right soft grandma butt. Since that time I am about 5 lbs nearer my pre surg weight.
Narcotics: do not like them do not want them, took them anyway. I did get 5 days of Toradol which is a godsend. Beats the hell out of any narcotic for pain control. My daughter kept me medicated and then we started cutting back. I knew what was working and what wasn't. For me Norco sucks for actual pain control and it backs you up. I sort of forgot I had not pooed in a week. I was taking stool softeners but those pesky Norcos just overrule your bowels. I will not go into graphic detail but ducolax works I had to take several. Problem solved. I cried non stop the first week. I could not stop the most ridiculous things would set me off . I think I dehydrated myself.
I am having physical therapy and they are the bomb as well. If they are being honest I am doing very well. When I get home my leg and hip spasm it is not painful as much as uncomfortable and it follows me into the night in bed. I take a single Valium at night with motrin and my baby aspirin and I am able to sleep. Bad as I hate Norco let me tell you Valium rocks. This also is being weaned down. I will probably need something for the spasms in the next few weeks because they happen every night but it cannot be Valium. I like it too much.
So many people went out of their way to think of me. My friend Jojo sent me a recliner....... can you believe that!!!! Debi cooked me an entire meal for my family with desert that was wonderful, Kay sent me flowers and Ria brought some my first day and checked on me. My niece sent me an edible arrangement as did my sister in law Elaine. My Louisiana sister Jill babysat me as did Janet. Glenda got me a bottle of wine and a "hip Kit" and has taken me to the store and to therapy and has made me nearly pee myself please see my posting on Facebook about our shopping trip, Joshua is taking me to therapy as well and providing me with encouragement. My dear neighbor Maria and her daughter Arianna visited me and Maria has taken me to therapy several times and to the store. Then her husband Michael made me soup. So many many kindnesses and I am humbled by the love.
I now have my first fake part if you don't count the boobs, teeth crowns, and wigs. This is my first real geriatric part, my entry to the club of elders , the first of what will probably be a repeat in the next few years on my right hip. I am getting older and each day wake up and thank God that I still am alive and kicking. I have so many things to be grateful for and go to sleep thinking about them.
To Rebekah and Shane thank you for opening your home and your hearts to a partially disabled Mimi and I will never ever forget what you have done for me. I wait each day for the twins to get home to see "mimi's booboo" then they share the booboos that they have acquired during the day.
God is good.
Tuesday, May 16, 2017
GETTING OLDER, PHYSICAL THERAPY, WIGS AND MORE
I realized why I hadn't posted in ages. I'm tired. Everyday I think of things that I want to write about then I get home and I can't imagine sitting down in front of the computer. I have been working a lot of overtime and I'm having issues with remembering that I am getting older and probably should take it easy. My checkbook screams at me to pick up shifts and apparently I cannot say no. I did several 14 hour shifts and realized that I spend an inordinate amount of time doing my hair. I have to get up in the morning (or evening depending the shift) two hours early so that I can wash my hair, put it up in rollers, sit under the hairdryer for 30 minutes, tease it, and spray it rock hard so that it will last the shift. That is 2 hours that I could spend in my bed. I did something that my daughter has been after me for years to do, I bought a wig. I love it. I cannot believe that I didn't do this years ago. I get up get a shower, put on makeup and slap on a wig. I now have several colors and styles and it makes me happy. At 65 I need things to make me happy! I have had mixed reviews with most liking my new hair but it doesn't matter I LIKE them and the time that I now have. My grandchildren haven't noticed my hair change but a month ago I was babysitting Allison and Aries. I didn't realize it but was running a low grade fever and was antsy. I reached up and pulled my wig off. The room was dim and Allison screamed and ran from the room. Aries started laughing and said "funny Mimi do it again". I had to really work on Allison she thought I had pulled my hair off. Patton calls it my "hat".
When I turned 65 I realized I am now considered geriatric. I get special discounts, people defer to me in public, and I am treated differently and sometimes with amusement. I look in the mirror and see a younger person than what I see in a photograph and that is a shock. I don't know where the time went. Yesterday I was 26, I went to bed and woke up age 65. I have wrinkles, stiff joints and my skin hangs down by my knees and well, in other areas that won't be mentioned. I cannot fight father time but I am going to delay him as long as I can. I have grandchildren that I want to enjoy and I want to be able to be physically able to keep up with them.
I have been having physical issues over the past year or longer. I have stiffened up and have various aches and pains that I never had before. I don't go to the gym anymore because I don't have the time and my back and legs hurt nearly all the time. My posture sucks. I walk leaned forward and my muscles have had to readjust to support my frame. I had my doctor's appointment with my NP and she was concerned so I am now in physical therapy. I had my first session today and I love it. I came home with renewed purpose and will tell everyone that I work with to tell me to straighten up when I start to lean forward and to ignore me if I tell them to bite me when they correct me. Life is good! Winston had his 4th birthday party at Sky Zone a trampoline play land. You have no idea how much I wanted to go out and bounce. Being 65 means you have to think about broken hips. I stayed on hard ground but in my mind I was bouncing around like an idiot.
I look at pictures of my mom at this age and believe that I look better and younger than she did. My sister Patti is older by 4 years and I think that she doesn't look her age either. I am praying that the saying 60 is the new 50 is true. I took an online test to determine my age by asking questions. I came out with 28. I like that. I might have a 65 year old body but I have a 28 year old mind. I had Botox a few months ago. It did not turn out well. To get rid of the wrinkles in my forehead it made my eyelids droop. The effects have worn off and I wont repeat that BUT I am continuing the Juvaderm in my lips. My lips had thinned to the point that you couldn't see them. My doctor plumped them up and I love them. I can wear lip stick and make a duck face in selfies if I was so inclined......which I am not.
I am glad that I am married because if I was dating I would have to hand out a disclaimer: This woman is not what she appears. She has fake boobs(due to cancer), crowns on her teeth, Juvaderm plumped lips, and wigs BUT she has a 28 year old mind so it might be worth the risk.
When I turned 65 I realized I am now considered geriatric. I get special discounts, people defer to me in public, and I am treated differently and sometimes with amusement. I look in the mirror and see a younger person than what I see in a photograph and that is a shock. I don't know where the time went. Yesterday I was 26, I went to bed and woke up age 65. I have wrinkles, stiff joints and my skin hangs down by my knees and well, in other areas that won't be mentioned. I cannot fight father time but I am going to delay him as long as I can. I have grandchildren that I want to enjoy and I want to be able to be physically able to keep up with them.
I have been having physical issues over the past year or longer. I have stiffened up and have various aches and pains that I never had before. I don't go to the gym anymore because I don't have the time and my back and legs hurt nearly all the time. My posture sucks. I walk leaned forward and my muscles have had to readjust to support my frame. I had my doctor's appointment with my NP and she was concerned so I am now in physical therapy. I had my first session today and I love it. I came home with renewed purpose and will tell everyone that I work with to tell me to straighten up when I start to lean forward and to ignore me if I tell them to bite me when they correct me. Life is good! Winston had his 4th birthday party at Sky Zone a trampoline play land. You have no idea how much I wanted to go out and bounce. Being 65 means you have to think about broken hips. I stayed on hard ground but in my mind I was bouncing around like an idiot.
I look at pictures of my mom at this age and believe that I look better and younger than she did. My sister Patti is older by 4 years and I think that she doesn't look her age either. I am praying that the saying 60 is the new 50 is true. I took an online test to determine my age by asking questions. I came out with 28. I like that. I might have a 65 year old body but I have a 28 year old mind. I had Botox a few months ago. It did not turn out well. To get rid of the wrinkles in my forehead it made my eyelids droop. The effects have worn off and I wont repeat that BUT I am continuing the Juvaderm in my lips. My lips had thinned to the point that you couldn't see them. My doctor plumped them up and I love them. I can wear lip stick and make a duck face in selfies if I was so inclined......which I am not.
I am glad that I am married because if I was dating I would have to hand out a disclaimer: This woman is not what she appears. She has fake boobs(due to cancer), crowns on her teeth, Juvaderm plumped lips, and wigs BUT she has a 28 year old mind so it might be worth the risk.
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