Candy, Candy, Candy

Just a few hours remain until witches, ghosts and pirates wipe off their make-up, clutch melting chocolate bars and flip the calendar to a new page. Our porch light has been off signaling an end to the free calorie give-away. This year, Bob purchased the candy, all his personal favorites, a few weeks ago, confidant that he would be forced to consume piles of donations remaining in our home. He was shocked to see that by 6:00, the threat of a quick trip to the grocery store might be in order since the quantity of brightly packaged goodies was quickly deteriorating. Kids came in mass this year. It was not unusual to see ten or twelve revelers drooling at our door at the same time.

Poor Einstein! I was sure he would either have a heart attack from the deluge of strangers coming too close to our home or cause one of the costumed children to succumb to a similar fate as a white canine came crashing into the storm door. I tried multiple tactics to assist my pooch, all having the identical outcome of no change. I gave Einstein a treat each time the doorbell rang. I even asked kids to give him a treat. I tried the fiercer position of sending him to his cage for a lockdown period. I even sat on my front stoop with Einstein safely inside but able to watch the festivities. He was a mess! He’s now sound asleep on our family room couch glued to my husband’s side. His fatigue from hours of being a bodyguard and watchdog has taken its toll. He may not awaken until Thursday.

Halloween has gained prominence as a major celebration throughout the years. It’s not unusual to see homes glowing with orange lights and big blown-up witches and ghosts bouncing in the breeze. I love the little folk dressed as angels and ball players, but I’ve never liked those Scream masks with blood dripping down the side. Lately, vampires and axe murderers are too tame; zombies now slowly advance upon the wary. All I can say is “Yuck!”

My little grandsons were robots for the outside collection of wonderful goodies. Young ones quickly catch the idea of going up to any door and holding out a receptacle while colored rewards quickly drop inside. You can get a lifetime of tummy treats in just one swipe through the neighborhood. Parents walk much too slowly. Don’t they realize that even better gifts are just one more house down? Why can’t they hustle a little?

Of course, all kids lose a huge hunk of their loot upon returning home. Parents need to double-check each item for safety reasons and might just happen to eat a piece or two or twelve. I love that kids must only have two pieces before bedtime so parents can quietly huddle with the huge bowl of calories and whip through a pound or two with no regret.

So may you all enjoy the leftover treats or the bulging bag of pilfered candy. May it sweeten your upcoming November days. May the calories be carried away as the sugar slowly settles on someone else’s thighs. Can they have some medicinal value for chronic pain? Hmmmmm!

God Uses Chronic Pain to Show that Life is Good:

     -  With all this free candy for just knocking on a door, life has to be good.

Saved by Dog Slobber

I continue to worry about my poor husband. He longs so for a release from his pain and a renewed strong sense of self-worth. The continuation of his chronic pain is truly debilitating for him. He admits the internal rage bubbling for a release, begging for a burning bush appearance of Christ to still his soul. The ballooning symptoms of his brain injury create havoc throughout his body. Many of the limitations are not readily apparent to bystanders, making their power multiply exponentially in his mind.

Meanwhile, I’m creaking (I did mean creaking, not creeping) around the house in search of some magic button to zap my pain away and my brain back. The cooler fall weather begs for people to come outside and enjoy, but the barometric changes send shudders down my spine. Walking is more difficult. It would be so easy to while away the day in bed, but I force tired bones to move each day. I honestly feel that a can of WD 40 would prove immensely beneficial if I could just figure out how to spray inside my joints, under my layers of untoned flesh.

My neurostimulator surgery has been pushed back until November 11 due to a conflict with the surgeon. It’s kind of important for him to be there, so I guess that means showing my unlimited supply of patience. Now it also isn’t planned until 3:00 in the afternoon, obviously proving they haven’t seen me fast for that long. This procedure has already been postponed for three and a half years, what’s another nine days.

God has made us each unique and even created our bodies in a one-time only mold. Each person confronts and handles chronic pain in his/her own way. God added a giraffe moment by also changing our feelings and emotions on a daily, or even hourly, basis. Bob and I try to balance each other off by showing support to the person who requires help at that time. Trouble brews when we both have slipped off that mountain cliff and are stuck down in some dark crevice.

Earlier this week, I was determined to show my tough nature to the world as I braved the physical body elements and prepared to make a dinner AND dessert. The new kitchen was developed to help hurdle our disabilities, but we forgot to install a cheat button. I want the George Jetson kitchen where you only need push a button and specify your request for a delicious meal that then comes flying out the dispenser. My body fades faster than I like. By the time our meal was prepared, my body hurt too much to eat. However, that leaves more for Bob, so I guess that isn’t totally wrong.

I should film Bob and I during one of our double “episodes”. Our home is arranged so I can slide some table or tub to Bob to help him rise from the floor. We’ve learned that when I try to be more physical in assistance, I end up similarly sprawled on the tile. We know many of the triggers that start spinning my vertigo out of control, but I often remember them after the fact. It looks a little like this: Bob falls, I hear the thud, I turn to see him checking out the floor, my quick turn flips on my vertigo, I fall on top of him, Einstein races to us thrilled that we are joining him on his level and covers our crimson faces with kisses. We might start feeling discouraged and angry, but those canine smooches magically transform us into laughter. We’re blessed to have each other. Nobody else would really understand. Life together is good!

God Uses Chronic Pain to Prove that Life is Good:

     -  A loving pet’s slobber has medicinal value for physical, emotional and spiritual status.

The Devil Made Me Say It

How refreshing to see so many faces who are all part of the Good Morning Girls Bible study. I’ve gained by taking time to spend some time with my Bible as I slowly begin a new day. By looking at the many faces showing off their journals, I more fully feel part of John’s “dear children”.

Today’s reading was from John 3:7-8 where the D word has some prominence. I’ve never felt really comfortable talking about the devil preferring to concentrate on the loving Christ verses instead. I tend to live my life with rose-colored glasses, but by this part of my life, those lenses have received one or two deep scratches. Devil more realistically comes to mind paired with witches, goblins and jack o’lanterns. Although Halloween is less than a week away, I can’t blame my distorted view just on the calendar page.

I know people sin. That’s been going on from good ol’ Adam, Eve and that darn snake. I can admit that. You don’t have to be watching me long to see me cross over that path with too much ease. I just don’t picture a little guy with horns and a red tail following me around the house. I sin too frequently despite my fervent wishes to lead a more godly life.

I was once told that Christ’s time on Earth would not have the impact if it weren’t for the devil. I have to be able to look at both sides of the heavens. The cartoonish pitchfork may not be nudging my rolls of cellulite, but the power can still pull at my soul. I have to accept the power of sin, and yes that means the devil too as I thank the Lord for my salvation.

Thanks Good Morning Girls. I love what is happening. Can I just suggest that perhaps we switch to Good Afternoon Girls? (The devil made me say that!)

God Uses My Chronic Pain to Show that Life is Good:

     -  I have time in the “late morning” to be part of a wonderful Bible study.

Find out more by checking out this site:  www.goodmorninggirls.org

No Mirrorball Trophy for Me

I heard from my pain doctor’s office yesterday with the news that my insurance agreed to my “neurostimulator”. That word almost needs to be stated in a rich baritone to get the full effect. It brings images of a mixture of Frankenstein and robotic technology. What am I getting myself into?

The first surgery will be next Wednesday and take approximately two hours. The developer of the unit sends over a member of their staff to then train me on how to use my new remote. I imagine if I were a male, I wouldn’t need any help learning how to use a remote control since testosterone perfects quicker button pushing. I just hope not to lose it on our couch.  I wonder if the doctors can attach some Velcro to my chest so I won’t misplace the durn thing.

Backing up with a little explanation, some leads will be placed near my lumbar nerves and along my groin. When either of those areas is bugging me, I give myself a little zap, which will hopefully interfere with any pain sensations. I wonder who dreams this stuff up. It will feel somewhat like a TENS unit. Now I will truly have a reason for a bad hair day.

My second surgery will be dependent on the success of this neurostimulator. They now even are starting to implant these units along the cranium to provide some migraine relief, but that is not even in the discussion stages for me. I am having difficulties fathoming what that would feel like though.  Think about it and your forehead is guaranteed to furrow. I’m getting used to needles very close to my spinal column, but messing with what little brain I have left might be pushing it.

My niece is getting married just three days after my surgery. I am not planning on earning those coveted 10’s from Len, Carrie Ann or Bruno, but I crave to be able to stay and enjoy the special celebration. My little grandsons will hopefully be dancing up a storm bringing special memories my way. I hate to miss any time with them, particularly when their visit will be so short so my fancy purse will hold a lipstick, credit card and remote. What else is needed?

Prayers are still needed because I admit this whole idea seems somewhat surreal. I’m ready for anything and pray that this will also help extinguish some of my aches and pains. Keep me posted on sales on batteries.

God Uses My Chronic Pain to Convince Me that Life is Good:

     -  I get to start a new fashion trend with a remote tied around my neck.

I Need a Buzz

It’s a beautiful fall day as the sun shines against a deep blue sky. A few brave leaves cling to the branches despite the breeze in the autumn air. The temperature has risen throughout the day to allow coats to be scattered across the yard. Few people are outside though as televisions are tuned to another weekly football game.  The Bears have even played appropriate for their London audience, and Chicago feels a win might actually be in the near future.

Despite this idyllic setting, I’m hunkered on my corner of the couch. All benefits of the latest injection have long since disappeared making a more technological option a better choice for me. Now, we just need for the sacred insurance companies to agree with that prognosis.

I had planned for this procedure immediately following to what is now known as The Ice. I had actually gone for a psychological to determine whether my dreams of reduced pain fit reality. I passed. So in ten days, I hope to obtain a trial neurostimulator. The name alone should help scare away uncaring insurance adjustors. Some leads will be placed close to my spinal column. With the use of a handy dandy remote, I will be able to send electric signals to my brain. This new buzz will be highly preferable to any pain that I have in my hips and lower back. A more permanent procedure will be dependent on my results.

That still leaves my head. There now are some stimulators that can be attached in your cranium, but the use of permanent electrical current shows mixed reactions at this time. That’s fine with me for now. I don’t need to attempt any similarity to a robotic woman.

It would be amazing though to be able to take more steps after sitting for a short while and not make wrinkled faces as I squirm in pain. My maddening hips need help in climbing stairs and walking more than five feet. God will bring me what I need. It’s so perplexing to be deciding about a procedure that should have happened in February of 2008. I’m sure that this technique has been fine tuned by now, so hopefully that means even better results after this three and a half year hiatus.

I’m still waiting for help with The Mighty Three. I know I will have to reduce the number of falls I take once I get my temporary stimulator. The headaches are starting to really affect my psyche, as I want to hide from very much, or any, social interaction. I know that I can partially mold the vertigo as long as I avoid turns or elevation changes. You would think that the persistent nausea would have beneficial repercussions on the scale, but that has not been the result.

So say some prayers that this funk can disappear. I can logically state a bazillion of my blessings. God has blessed me with a loving and caring family. Stephanie’s children are growing stronger, taller and smarter. Bob’s brain injury is finally getting some options for care. My home is stuffed with memories and memory makers. My church family provides a deep foundation of love and support. My dog makes me laugh! Yet, I still wallow in wishes for my body to get rid of some of this darn pain.

Thanks for the prayers. The awesome strength found in such dialogue with Christ is a power that does miracles.

God Uses My Chronic Pain to Remind Me that Life is Good:

     -  People who don’t even know me now offer my name in prayer. Wow, feel that power of a good life.

A Matter of Life and Death

Melancholy has settled over our home and stalled any creativity from my capture. I’m not even good at pretending that my frame is full of vim and vigor. (What the heck is vim anyway? I just checked it means exuberance. How goofy to feel at east to use a word without knowing the meaning.) Poor Bob has not lived with Mrs. Excitement for quite some time.

The title of this blog honestly states the paradox confronting us. A wonderful gentleman from church has just been diagnosed with the “C” word already in Stage Four. Options are limited. He has chosen to stock these next six weeks with memories and reminiscing while staying at his daughter’s home. This gentle icon of Christian love will be missed when he joins “his bride” in God’s heavenly home. He is remarkably enjoying life, not a surprise to any, until death dims his soul on Earth.

However, our lives are not completely draped in funeral black. My youngest nephew traveled to our home with his beautiful wife. Now, he was full of vim! April will bring about a noisy bundle with diapers to be changed and a mouth to be fed. The miracle of your first child halts the universe as you examine each tiny toe and all those tiny fingers grasping for love.

As I journeyed to church this morning to help on bulletins and stopped at Target to find some good deals, I noticed that life as usual was still transpiring for the vast multitudes of people. The new driver on the delivery truck for Arizona tea, the mother pleading with her three year old to try on a winter hat and the older gentleman attempting to press the gas pedal were probably not pondering heavy philosophical issues like life and death. However, each of them told a story that twisted into my path to change my focus. I giggled at the driver not quite turning the corner with ease, the toddler insisting that the hat should be purple and the senior driver proudly accelerating to six miles per hour.

I allowed myself two days of a funk since the cold, damp weather swept into my bones. I have learned that I need to admit to myself that some days are hard. Personal connections can pump that pain meter with ease. My spinal injection from last Friday brought limited relief so I let myself swim in the dark pool of “Golly Gee, this isn’t very fun!” for 48 hours.

There is so much life ready to be witnessed and begging for your participation. My Bible studies of a loving God, husband with kind thoughts and actions and even readers showing that they care continue to enforce that life is good. One special friend sent a short email this morning about a free writer’s workshop to be held over the weekend. A sense of satisfaction now rests on my shoulders. I’m unsure whether the idea of gathering with wanna-be authors or the thought of having someone take time to care and encourage delivered the stronger power of contentment. Either way, I’m convinced that life is good, so I better get off my tush and enjoy it.

God Uses My Chronic Pain to Show Me that Life is Good:

My slower speed, still faster than that geezer behind the wheel, lets me capture moments of life being good.

Prayer Time

I’m pleased to find a multitude of ways to expand my time with God. I’m currently on full-time disability from work, so supposedly have extra time to feed my soul. I’ve already done a superior job at feeding my stomach so it’s time to move on. That’s part of the reasons why I continue to be so excited about Good Morning Girls. Wednesday is Link Up Day when participants are encouraged to share their blogs and any special discoveries about religious studies Check out www.goodmorninggirls.org for more info.

I’m also in WISP, an acronym for Women in Search of Peace. Females from a variety of religions gather to learn more of others’ faiths while deepening our own. Muslims, Mormons, Catholics, Methodists and Lutherans join together in study and fellowship. I’m new to this group, but am already buoyed by the many possibilities flowing from the Holy Ghost. Then there’s the weekly Bible study about 1 Samuel and a monthly book study that challenges the few remaining brain cells that I have.

I’m honored to be a Stephen Leader at my church. I have been diligently working on a PowerPoint presentation for November 12^th. The topic is some new prayer ministries that will commence in January as well as some prayer tools that I have found to be beneficial. I’m ashamed to admit that on bad days, I find words and thoughts escaping me as I look for discussion, ok more monologue on my part, with the Lord. Combine that with the additional birthday candles needed on my cake, and I just plain need all the help that I can accumulate. Various prayer beads have come to my rescue.

I’m playing it lazy today and including some quotes on prayer that will hopefully be pondering points for my presentation and also for you. Please let me know which ones enter the crevices of your heart. 

•          Listening to God is far more important than giving Him our ideas. ~ Frank Laubach
•          Seven days without prayer makes one weak. ~ Allen E. Vartlett
•         The trouble with nearly everybody who prays is that he says ‘Amen’ and runs away before God has a chance to reply.
•          When you pray, rather let your heart be without words than your words without heart.  ~ ~John Bunyan

•          We have to pray with our eyes on God, not on the difficulties.  ~ Oswald Chambers
•          When at night you cannot sleep, talk to the Shepherd and stop counting sheep. 
•         The trouble with our praying is, we just do it as a means of last resort.  ~ Will Roger
•       We must move from asking God to take care of the things that are breaking our hearts, to praying about the things that are breaking His heart.  ~ Margaret Gibb
•      There is a vast difference between saying prayers and praying  ~ John G Lake
•      Prayer requires more of the heart than the tongue.  ~ Adam Clarke

      Hopefully at least one of these quotes will squeeze into a crevice in your heart so you may ponder it all day. Please let me know which one you find the most thought provoking.

      God Uses My Chronic  Pain and Shows that Life is Good:

             I have additional time to feed my soul (and my stomach).


      God grant me more patience as I deal with formatting difficulties on this blog. So much for being lazy today!

The Cheap Seats

Tonight’s blog is more difficult for me to write, and I’m unsure why that would be. I’m seated next to my husband watching Sunday night football. We are both dazed with the Bears winning, and I mean really winning. Being fans of Chicago sport teams proves that we understand and value Christ’s unconditional love.

Although we went to church this morning, I miss attending the service of the past. You see, our church organ has large metal pipes bellowing out the notes to favorite hymns. You can feel the echo vibrating through your body. The bad news is that my head can feel the sound waves echo throughout what little bit is left of my brain. Upper scale A notes build a migraine in 2.1 milliseconds. I need to clutch onto the pew to avoid crashing to the floor as my vertigo spins my soul. Although the communion glasses look really sweet, I prefer to stay vertical when walking. There was a wonderful trumpet solo of the Lords Prayer this morning that literally had me on my knees, unfortunately it wasn’t in prayer. I try to sneak out the door before music is part of the service and eavesdrop from a chair or pew in the hall. I jokingly refer to this as balcony seats. People are quite accustomed to my revolving door worship, but I admit the service lacks continuity. People come by to chat, not realizing I want to hear what’s happening in the sanctuary. Kids are talking and being kids. Adults are catching up on the week’s happenings. I’m so darn distracted that I don’t know what is happening. Bob bought expensive Bose headphones to block out the noise. Instead, they form a vacuum that only hurts more. So much for that idea!

That kind of illustrates what my life often replicates. I’m trying to participate in life but am best, looking on from the sidelines. I’m off beat. Some people try to help me pass the time and bring all sorts of ideas on how to correct migraines, vertigo or fibromyalgia. I get names of doctors, miracle medicines and powerful procedures doing wonders in Canada. I get so caught up in all that busyness that I lose what is happening in my own life.

I’m still using yoga and meditation to help ease the pain and keep my body moving. I’m trying some new injections tomorrow to try to reduce the pain. I’ve obtained various prayer beads to help me focus my muggy mind. I know I’m living life on the fringes as I stretch to be part of the real thing. Bob is growing more worried about life’s newest twists as he longs to return to a life pre-ice and fall. He’s been a gem as we bounce from doctor to doctor, learning tidbits on brain injury. Yet we stay balancing on the sharp edges, unsure of which way we want to slide.

So, I take time expressing my prayers, fears, and delights in this silly blog. I hope to wipe away this fog that has settled around the heart of my home. There’s always tomorrow or maybe next month. Can you see the Cub fan in me? It all comes around though because I know life is good.

God Uses My Chronic Pain to Prove Life is Good:

I am reminded that many people care about us as they come talk to me in my “cheap seat” at church. 

What To Do List?

Blogs are difficult sometimes for they force a confrontation on reality. As I sit on the couch with Einstein squeezed at my side, I find the computer keys causing ripples of pain down my arms at each keystroke. I review my day to discover my greatest accomplishment is getting dressed and making it to an appointment with my pain doctor that enables me to acquire additional pain pills. That could hardly be classified as an event worthy of noting. I also made it my Golden Sneakers yoga where nobody is within twenty years of my age. The senior slow stretches are easier allowing yogis (I like that term) to remain seated for the duration of the class. Unfortunately, I was unable to even meet that criteria since merely rotating my head allowed my vertigo to come crashing down on my overweight body. Let me just say that the tiled floor at the Y is somewhat boring but possibly now possesses a cute dimple. With help, I made it home where my bed provided a welcome release from my pain.

I’m about to try to convince my valiant dog to courageously step out the door since any attempt to carry him would be suitable for a fall sitcom replacement. I’ve been contemplating that maneuver for close to an hour for I dread the humiliation about to confront the two of us. My nightly shower is currently pending following the results of my escapades with my pooch. My mantra tonight is “the fence will be worth it, the fence will be worth it, please God, the fence will be worth it” as I see determination growing in my dog’s form while I remain seated on the couch.

These words are cathartic, allowing a release of frustration and anguish. I reflect on my growing lack of accomplishments and grieve over my loss of skills. I would love to enjoy our hot tub, but too many obstacles block that endeavor. The requirements of going upstairs, changing into a suit, and heading outside are nothing compared to my Olive Oyl strength regarding the removal of the hot tub’s cover.

I worry that I’ll be unable to cross off anything on my To Do List tomorrow if my frame is still knotted and sore. I dream of making cards, a crafting hobby of the past, since my hands shake too badly to stamp a message or fold the paper. The basement still holds boxes from the restoration crew bulging with items for review. I’m grateful for my virtual Bible study since the reading is minimal, and I don’t need to leave the comfort of my home.

Well, I better make my move. The painkillers loom nearby which I will need once again to feel any comfort in my bed. Yet, I glance around me (very slowly mind you so my vertigo won’t escalate) and see the many blessings in my life. One look at the grins of my two beloved grandsons significantly reduces the pain meter. Our many fish slowly drift through the darkened tanks bringing a sense of calm to my frazzled mind. The looks from Einstein, previously worried about waving flags and zapping sensations, are full of concern over me. He patiently waits, well kind of patiently waits, for my next movements. Will he be forced to endure that zapping yard or to watch me ride upstairs far away from those darn flags?

So goodnight to you all or maybe good morning or afternoon. Wish me luck standing up. Be glad I haven’t attached a video.

God Uses My Chronic Pain to Show that Life is Good:

     -  It makes great material for this weird blog I know.

Come Here Einstein

Our poor dog Einstein still suffers “yougottobekidding-itis” when confronted with invitations to go outside. The new hidden fence has scared him and yanks any bravery from him. He has exhibited this behavior in the past when the temperature plummets below zero or strong thunderstorms show their wrath. The weather couldn’t be better here now with temperatures gently resting in the 70’s and gorgeous, colored leaves floating to the ground. Einstein has loved the leaves in the past, but he feels an inner calling to relieve himself on each and every leaf.

What a similarity to the verses of www.goodmorninggirls.org when John is gently calling to the people of the times. “Dear children, fathers, young men” are all examples of his address. John writes because each of us know God or “know the one who is from the beginning,” aka God. He even calls to the young men emphasizing any vanity by reminding them they are strong and have “overcome the evil one.” He calls us all to his word.

Just like Einstein, many are hesitant to read further. Their previous experiences have not been totally positive. They don’t want to leave behind that which is comfortable for places beyond. They can make-do just fine if they are just left alone.

We need to be the Johns who call out to others to join us. We must take up the hands (like I try to lug Einstein’s whole body) and guide them to the Lord. Once outside, Einstein enjoys the sunshine and cool breeze as he studiously examines each fallen leaf. Once there, our friends will also be able to relish in God’s word.

So I must invite others, a task surprisingly difficult for me. I must also be living proof as a model of the meaning of Christianity. How refreshing to be gently called and reminded of the glory of the Lord.

Enjoy your sunshine and God’s handiwork painting the trees that surround us. Life is good.

God Uses Chronic Pain to Prove that Life is Good:

-       I have the opportunity to sit here midmorning and let the Holy Ghost soothingly fill each pore. Ahhhhh, life is good.

Lady of Leisure

I’m supposedly a “lady of leisure” now as Bob headed off for four days of fishing with his best buddy. He gets to eat and drink what he wants PLUS wear old wrinkled t-shirts with stains. He finds God’s peace out on the lake and can truly relax while feeding off the beauty of this autumn season. Life is good.

That leaves me here with the sissy dog. Einstein is beyond timid about going outside and must be coaxed to even step on the grass as he struggles to understand all the flags depicting a hidden fence. He can be pretty stubborn when he so desires. There are bound to be times when my patience is less than his fear. Then I can really shout out the command “Watch out!” with a whole new meaning. Anyone is invited over to see my efforts at persuading a stubborn dog.

The leaves have provided an art show extraordinaire with the colors showing off God’s talent. A paintbrush has dropped on the tops of a quite a few treetops while others have astounding golden coats. I love this time of year. You can almost sense God’s presence with each glimpse of proud oaks and maples. Life is good.

I just read a devotion that made me ponder at the viewpoint. It stated that the fall colors are to remind us of the beauty that coincides with death. Each leaf will gradually drop quietly to the ground or be whisked off to places beyond. The leaves die and new ones will take their places very soon. The leaves return to the soil much similar to “ashes to ashes” and wait for the triumph of new life.

The breeze is less today allowing the leaves to slowly settle. I’m thrilled for the lack of wind allows me to walk upright. Yesterday, I could see the neighbor behind us at her kitchen sink while I struggled to get in the house. Each time I thought I would have success, my lack of balance knocked me down. Several times I performed less than ideal somersaults as my vertigo tricked my body. It surely was a Kodak moment as my tush rolled down a small hill and settled in some of the many flags representing the hidden fence’s boundary. I completed these gymnastic feats multiple times before Bob finally heard my calls for assistance. The delay was partially my fault. He had taken a shaking dog into the house, and thought I was following after. I knew I needed his help but didn’t want to draw further attention to my plight as neighbors roamed into open spaces enjoying the warm evening. It was amusing as long as you were not a reluctant participant. I dare any of you to try a few backward rolls while your loved one snaps photos for Facebook. It might go viral if the right video is finally posted on YouTube.

I’m vertical today, a reason to celebrate for sure. I’m catching up on reading Getting to the Heart of Interfaith, a thoughtful model of increased hope and respect among Jews, Christians and Muslims. The monthly meeting of WISP, Women in Search of Peace, is next week. There is such a wealth of cultural heritage shared among us. Just another example of how life is good.

Manner God Uses Chronic Pain to Prove that Life is Good:

     - While maneuvering a forward roll, I gain new perspectives of God’s creation and secretly amuse many a neighbor.

Zap

Start some prayers for Einstein. Walks have become increasingly difficult for both Bob and I, and we were starting to dread the soon-to-come cold weather. Walks around the block are still required in the rainy or snowy weather. With that in our hearts, we purchased one of those underground fences. We are supposed to have Einstein outside in our yard more these next few days, and thankfully, the current weather is making that an easy task. Although I have felt the shock he receives, I’m a softie for this training process. In the last two days, he only got zapped once with me but that was enough for both of us.

Following the zap on the driveway, Einstein has been sticking very close to Bob or I when we are outside. My pooch and I plopped on the ground yesterday, neither of us happy after experiencing voltage. As I pet his back, he looked up at me and almost seemed to say, “What is going on with this pain? Why don’t you stop it? Don’t you love me anymore?”

I immediately felt that God was thumping me on the head. Those very words were cried out in the previous hours from the humans of the house as we complained to God. “What is going on with this pain? Why don’t you stop it? Don’t you love me anymore?”

Einstein doesn’t realize that this fence will make it easier on all three of us in the long term. He will be able to enjoy the yard in many new ways very soon. We love him very much and are sacrificing ourselves, mentally and financially, in order to get this fence. We want to keep him safe in the long run from hazards (like cars) that he doesn’t even recognize.

Could these be the same words that God is trying to tell us? Despite our pain, He loves us more than we could ever recognize. He is looking at our happiness in the future. His son has already paid the greatest sacrifice. Bob always longs for a burning bush experience from God, so I’m taking the matches outside now. He’s talking; we just need to listen.

God Uses Our Chronic Pain to Prove that Life is Good:

     - Einstein, our well-loved dog, gives us God’s messages when our ears are plugged.

Take the Pledge

It’s mind blowing how I love those grandsons and my daughter more each day. I am blessed to be able to Skype my family with such regularity. To be able to see those bubbling faces and hear their happy voices makes a proud Nanny even prouder. I find out all sorts of facts and knowledge each time I hit that blue Skype icon. I can see them grow up literally before my eyes.

Teddy can now take part in a full conversation with his wonderful sense of humor blooming. Last night we talked about the dinosaur that lives outside his home. You must beware of the big tail for it is capable of creating havoc with ease. Teddy is obviously well aware of his control over my heart.

I have to snicker at his younger brother Ollie’s antics in the background. Ollie will take part in the conversation but slowly ease away. Every time his older brother begins an earnest depiction of something vital in his life, Ollie slowly slipped into what I consider hysterical behavior. At 20 months, he can find lots of things to do in the background. Once he drank from his brother’s glass while in full view of the computer camera. Teddy would not have been happy. Another time he was climbing high up the shelves to get a toy tucked away from chubby fingers. Today, he turned over their small chair transforming it into a slide. I blew it though by explaining my poor attention to my daughter. Sorry Ollie! The chair got put away in the closet, out of reach of my gymnastic babe.

Teddy attends a preschool class two mornings per week at a nearby church. This is year two for him, and he can now play on the big kids play area. He begins each day with his pledge. When his Mom asked him to recite it for me, he instantly responded with

       I pledge to myself

       On this day

       To be kind in every way.

       Kind hands.

       Kind words.

       Kind bodies.

I’m thinking we all should recite it every morning. What a happier and healthier world we would have. That preschool teacher knew what she was doing developing this perfect daily creed.

Today he went for his first field trip to a combination children’s farm and ice cream shoppe. I loved hearing his excited voice explaining the hayrack ride, animals and pumpkins. You could hear his enthusiasm. I wonder how long ago people could hear that much excitement in my voice? Maybe with me, not too long.

So every reader has homework from this blog. Recite the pledge even once – and mean it. Then look for those daily fabulous experiences available to us. It’s the best medicine for any aches and pains.

God Uses My Chronic Pain to Prove Life is Good:

     -  I have time to say a simple pledge each morning to help me have a great day.

This Little Light

I feel slightly overwhelmed at the prospect of once again posting my blog, particularly linking it to Good Morning Girls participants. I have gained strength, encouragement and awe through reading the many other blogs available at this site. I find that I look forward to Wednesday evening or Thursdays as a time to slowly browse through the many options and opinions. I wonder if any read my words and gain anything half-related to inspiration.

If you are confused about the above paragraph, that is more confused than any other time following reading my blog, I suggest you might want to either look at past Wednesdays or better yet, peak at the link I have inserted. Good Morning Girls is a cyber Bible study aimed at women near and far. Our current study is that of 1 John.

www.Goodmorninggirls.org

The second chapter is much more inviting and encouraging; I am now a friend and even dear child. I find that last description even more amusing as I glance at the wrinkled hands typing these words. I try so hard to be the light emphasized in the childhood favorite, This Little Light of Mine. I picture little ones proudly holding up there light and pray that I remain as faithful. It’s easy for a bushel to fall over my light due to a hectic pace of accomplishing nothing. I’m ever so grateful that my salvation is not based on my homemaking skills.

As a grandma, I need to share the stories of the Bible and encourage other lights to shine. My daughter and son-in-law have lit their flames and created a home bursting with God’s presence. May yours also have the shining light of truth.

God Uses Chronic Pain to Prove that Life is Good:

     -  It gives me ample opportunity to read the words of other women seeking God’s truth.

Reiki 1

/Yesterday was a day that I was anxiously awaiting for quite some time. I’m unsure of the amount of people who will support the basis of what I finally was able to undertake. The tale is best told if I back up probably 30 years.

Bob had an uncle beginning to lose his long struggle with cancer. The pain was getting stronger with relief gradually dissolving. His being cried out for anything that might bring even a slight sliver of help. This is where Bob enters the scene. Bob flew to California and took a weekend class to learn about the ancient art of reiki. The goal was to rid some of the pain, not cure the disease that had emerged triumphant to his uncle’s shrunken body.

Once Bob and I were married, he humbly admitted his training in this Eastern philosophy of maintaining health. The Japanese technique for stress reduction, relaxation and even healing is administered by “laying on hands”. Now I admit that I thought my hubby’s mental health was slipping from his instant role of stepfather. It made no sense to my Type A personality and scientific bias. Then I got hurt! Bob quietly took some time and laid his hands on my injury. His hands were suddenly as hot as the sizzling sun as it felt like electrical current was mingled between the two of us. I felt better.

I still was not sure, my stubborn German background and paternal military like upbringing considered it a random reaction. Stephanie instantly believed and would call for Bobby to come to her needs. It worked! Bob used his skill to help ease stress and pain, not to be substituted for medical attention.  The Reiki won me over as this miraculous energy source caressed my tired body.

Both Stephanie and I have been curious about training, and I finally saw a local offering. Yesterday was the big day. I am now done with the Reiki 1 course. It’s difficult to explain the new sensation achieved through this Eastern Channel. I am doing what I can to help alleviate any of the pain that Bob and I daily experience.

Both Bob and I are scheduled to take level two at the end of this month to further increase these new skills.

I can just picture a few of you, or let’s face it, the majority of you shaking your heads in wonder. I finally lost it after years of being on the cusp of sanity. Can you imagine two of us bouncing off our walls? (Just think, in months past you were worried about us bouncing off the floor on some of our falls.) I encourage any of you to check out some of the reiki sites to learn more while praying for our continued efforts to ease our pain.

God Uses My Chronic Pain to Prove Life is Good:

     - I have the opportunity to enroll in courses to help ease stress and pain from the    lives of others and myself. That has to be good thing.

http://reiki.org/

God Bless a Boa?

Bob and I did something special tonight that made our dear grandson Teddy giggle and probably shocked many other people if we didn’t provide careful explanation. We took Einstein to church tonight. There was a very special annual service when all animals, live and stuffed, are invited to attend. It is always scheduled at the beginning of October, close to the date honoring St. Francis de Assisi.

It’s always interesting to see the guests. Tonight was pretty boring with just dogs and one fishbowl. In the past, we have had cats, gerbils, snakes and stuffed animals and more. The idea is to bless the animals with good health so they can continue to provide the gift of unconditional love to their owners. That is what God would like them to do. Owners were also reminded of our responsibility granted way back in Genesis to care for all animals.

It’s a short service and there were no interruptions this evening. Sometimes a dog wants to meet another dog or show their domination by barking. They all seem to settle down once the music starts. We have probably attended 8 of the last 10 years. We figure that Einstein needs as much blessing as he can get.

Our cleaning lady and her son were here today. They helped by putting some big plastic bins up in the crawl space. I was able to go through a few more boxes. I’m not sure if they will ever come to an end. I do see some carpeting at least now. Bob has probably put out 30 boxes for recycling paper in the last three weeks. We have also donated at least 50 boxes of stuff. This is still stuff that was being stored from our kitchen, things I brought home from work, goodies left behind from Stephanie, and other goodies representing our greed. The tubs up in the crawl only hold some holiday decorations we have accumulated over the years. Yes, that’s lots of years!

My hubby has had college football on TV for the majority of the day. Einstein is exhausted from his confusing trip to a Lutheran church. He was born part of an Amish household and has come a long way from that.

That’s it for today. We emptied boxes, watched some TV, and messed around a little on the computer. I have tried to forbid myself from any computer games and have been successful for a couple of weeks now. It was starting to be all consuming and taking a huge section of my days. Facebook is too confusing anymore anyway. My sister suggested that I read a moving blog at www.donnascancer.com. You might want to check it out. You can infer the topic without reading a word. Cancer grabs so many hearts in our lives that this site might provide something you need.

I was looking at doing some copywriting online. They are checking how many views a blog receives. If you can bribe some other people to check out my words, I would appreciate it. That’s not the purpose of these words though. They have provided an important release for me as I plunge into the topics of chronic pain, devotions and the love and support I receive from many of my readers.

Enjoy your day of rest tomorrow. God bless.

God Uses My Chronic Pain to Show that Life is Good:

     - We’re able to hire a cleaning lady to dig our way from the couch to the refrigerator. Life is good.