Moments with MoM

2011-04-18T15:43:00.000-07:00

I have been home for several weeks now and am feeling pretty good most of the time. Still tire easy but can now stay awake for the whole day. Starting to help in the kitchen some. I think the family still likes my cooking. At least there are no complaints. Doctor says that I am doing great with recovery - but it is slow in coming - need some patience. Well, it is time to go and start supper, since it takes me a little longer than normal.

2011-04-06T15:41:00.000-07:00

I am HOME! I now only have Dr. appointments every other week at Stanford. They seem very pleased with how I am progressing. Other than being tired and wanting to sleep still I am getting along OK.
It has definately been a while since I have been around the family and all the kids noise and activities of school. I think I will adjust quickly. Well dinner is getting close to ready so I need to go and eat.
Thanks for keeping up with my comings and goings.

Long time no see or write

2010-12-27T19:37:00.000-08:00

I made it home for Christmas. It was great to be with the family again even if I did take naps while I was there. We came back to the apartment on Sunday night. Today we had our 1st ITA after my hospital stay of 13 days or so, can't really remember exactly how many. I went in to the hospital because my sugars were out of control and my pain in my back was also sever. After many test and MRI's they found the problem with my back which was doing a nerve block. So I had another back surgery and they fixed another break. They changed my insulin and got the sugars under control. While I was in surgery Julie came to the hospital to rescue me and take me home! This is when I got to go home for Christmas.
Now back to the ITA appointment today. The doctor said things were looking good and I did not have to have any extra potassium and magnesium hung, they did have to do one bag of fluids. Rebecca and Daniel are just getting in to town tonight so it will be great to see them. Rebecca is going to be my new caregiver and is going to help me in the recovery process of getting my strength back and learning to walk with out help. Now I am off to get ready for bed, sorry I could not write more sooner.

Getting lots of "new things" and experiences

2010-12-10T18:23:00.000-08:00

Will write about the last week or so........till I tire which is quickly.
GREAT NEWS
I am 100% en grafted with my donor cells. So when you take a blood test from me right now all you see is the grafted donor cells.
GOOD NEW
They found out what is wrong with the back and the pain. What they first thought was a small pressure fracture turned out to be four. And one of them wasn't so small the vertebra was crushed. Also the head of the spine dept. decided to take over my case so I was set with the best.
BETTER NEWS
They hospitalized me and lots of pain meds till the surgery could take place. So around 5 or so they began to operate and I was done around 9 or so that evening. Two incisions, some kind of cemement, stitches, tape and more pain meds. and I back at home in my hospital bed with a pain pump.
SAME OLD NEWS
I am now in the apartment. Still hurting some and relying on pain meds. I have to watch carefully when and how I move, sit, or lay.

To tired for any more. Hope you and your families stay well at this joyous season

Day 40 and counting

2010-11-17T19:27:00.000-08:00

I have soooo much to look forward to. By Thanksgiving I will be allowed to eat a variety of dairy products. Not all mind you but cheese, milk, and most of all ICE cream! It is so funny how the human body and brain work. It goes all the way back to the garden - we get along without something and could care less about it until we are told that it is the "THING" we can not have. Suddenly it becomes the thing we long for, we need it, we want it, and soon we don't appreciate what we do have to the fullest. Seems like history repeats itself on even the most basic things in life.
This week has been going better. We finally have found a way to treat the pain so that I can during most of the day not be focused on my back. It still hurts but as the hospital says...level 1-10 with 10 being the worst pain...it is level 2 or so.

Today which is Wed. I only needed two bags of magnesium and we got to leave ITA around 11:30. It is the first time in a long time to eat lunch at the apartment instead of my throne at Stanford. Then I took a 4 hour nap and woke up to a very nice dinner Roger made. He had also done the laundry while I was sleeping. Small miracles never stop happening and for that I am truly grateful.

Day #+35

2010-11-12T20:01:00.000-08:00

Fri., Day #+35.. This means it is Day 35 after the transplant. Today I only needed two bags of magnesium and 1 bag of potassium IV. No other fluids were required! The first PA (Physician Assistant) came by and did not make any medication changes and I asked about the spine X-ray and she said it looked OK. Then the main Dr. who sees everyone came by and told me that she had looked at the X-ray and that I do have a small compression fracture L5 and that I also have spinal degeneration of L4 and L5. So I think one may have actually looked at the X-ray and one not? What do you think? So they think I will have this pain for 3-4 months but put me on some medications to help with muscle spasms and pain. She then looked at my face, shoulders, and back and said she will watch the rash that is developing to see if it is the beginning of host/graft disease. Great just what I needed...NOT.

I had Roger take this picture of the area I get to spend most of my time in...hooked to machines. At least the chairs are comfy and the blankets warm. Today they came by and gave me a free hat. All cancer patients need to keep their heads warm not just the ones who are hairless... and of course I got my free juice and graham crackers. Warm blanket, juice, graham crackers and a new hat ...Nap Time! Boy am I spoiled...

The routine keeps going

2010-11-08T09:13:00.000-08:00

Mon. - Well it has been a week since I wrote anything...sorry. We are now into the routine and sometimes it seems like there is nothing new to report or if I say what is really going on I am whining. There are always side effects and they change from day to day and the goal is to control them. Everything seems to effect the next thing. Yesterday I slept most of the day. It was a cold rainy day which I am sure helped make me tired.
Wed. - Today was better. I got some pain medication for my back and that has helped greatly! Plus I only needed 2 bags of magnesium and no potassium today. Had an X-ray of my spine today because they think I may have a compression fraction. These medicines drain the body of many things and also can make the bones more fragile. They ask every time about falling for internal bleeding and fractures. I also was way to high on one of the new medicines so they decreased the dose by 200. We shall see what Fri. brings.
As I tell myself to do Keep my eyes on the finish line, when I think I can't take any more look up and the coach will be right there encouraging me and telling me that with him I can finish the race and do it with grace.

Day #+24 after transplant

2010-11-01T11:01:00.000-07:00

Roger just asked me if I know everybody in the ITA. As different Dr.s and nurses walk by they say hi or wave. I then reminded him how long I have been coming and still didn't know the nurse I have today. I have met most of the PA's that work up here. I also know quite a few of the Dr.'s who run the cancer trials since I am in 4 different trials here. Most only require blood at different times while one requires a journal, medicine, blood work etc... When asked why I participate in the trials I respond that if people before had not done the same many of the treatments for cancer or side effect drugs would not be available to me today. Some one needs to be the guinea pig!
Today I am feeling better and am just waiting on the blood work to come back to find out how I am doing as well. Slept most of the weekend and rested the rest of the weekend. One of the side effects of the treatment is that my hands and feet are beginning to peel as if they were sun burned. Last night my thumb peeled and today the palms of both hands are. Dr. says that is fine and is normal after what all has been done to me. New bone marrow and now new skin.
Looks like another long day; 3 bags magnesium, 2 bags potasium. One of the drugs they give me drains the body of magnesium and some people react more to it or so they tell me. I also need more protein...since the main thing I eat on this diet is meat we shall see how to add more.
Just something new to add to the adventure of my lifetime.
Well until the next update...May God prove himself as faithful to you and your family as he is doing to our family.

Trick or Treat

2010-10-29T18:54:00.000-07:00

I look forward to Fri. because it normally means a weekend without having to go see Dr.s. Sorry Dr.s but after a while visiting with you is sometimes depressing. Take today for example. I woke up not feeling well but then I am on day +21 after transplant so do not expect to feel great yet. I get to ITA and you tell me I am running a fever and my magnesium, potassium, albumin, are all running low. In fact, so low you are amazed that I am not having seizures or serious heart trouble. Oh, I think and finally say is that why my heart is having pain and racing....yes. So I get in at 8 and after 3 bags of magnesium and 2 potassium and seeing the Dr. and getting labs done I leave at 1:00. Not the longest day but a crummy day. Came home and slept till 5. This being Halloween weekend is this the "Trick or Treat?"

Another day in ITA

2010-10-27T10:26:00.000-07:00

Today is Wed, and it is a beautiful clear day outside. Woke up feeling pretty good this morning all ready for Stanford today. It is going to be a long day here. Magnesium is so low they are giving me three bags IV, Potassium 1 bag IV and some fluids as well. Most of my other numbers are looking pretty good. Getting use to the fluctuation that happens with each test. Need to keep the focus on the future and not just day to day.
I almost feel like I am in Kindergarten again. They come around with a cart and give juice and graham crackers. Warm blankets to snuggle in for nap time. Right now there is a guitarist who is playing soft soothing music as well. I think they are trying to make us feel spoiled. The only thing I know for sure is that it is making me very sleepy so......snooze, snooze.

No boundaries

2010-10-22T09:30:00.000-07:00

Sorry for so long a time between post. I am hanging in there and dealing with all the little and sometimes big side effects from the medicine and or the proceedures. The radiation burns in my throat and stomach are getting better with all the meds. they are giving me to help. That makes the swallowing and eating easier which makes me happier. Rebecca has been a joy to have here helping me keep things straight. I now have around 20 new meds. to keep straight. I am in a trial here that is very simple but it is a new anti viral med. put out by Bayer made all the way in Germany. Cancer seems to know no geograhical boundries. My new bone marrow came from an international donor as well. So it seems the whole world wants a cure for cancer or at least wants to make the cure easier. After spending so much time here it also has no boundries on race, age, intellect, economic status. There are so many different types of cancer being treated here as well. I am glad the Lord has let me come to such a good place for treatment. Most of the staff are very caring and they remember my name and how I am doing and are very encouraging.
Roger is taking over the caregiver role as of this weekend when Rebecca goes home to her very unselfish husband and dog. They have both missed her very much. I will miss her when she goes!
Well, I am getting tired now so need to close this down for today. I just learned how to get my computer online while at the hospital so hope I can keep the updates coming...besides I am feeling better as long as I don't try to do to much. Thanks for all the prayers and support.

A very long week

2010-10-05T16:59:00.000-07:00

Today is the first day that I have felt apart of the human race again. It is the first day that I have been able to stay awake without feeling like I want to fall asleep. It is also the first day I have not run a fever which is one reason I feel better. I have begun week two which is filled with radiation and then the transplant on Fri. It seems that we can now get to Stanford in our sleep - since we have traveled there sooo many days in a row. My caregiver for the next 3 weeks is Rebecca. I am glad for her organization and company! It is nice that her husband was willing to share her.
Georgia is doing well with her new family of 6. The puppies have begun to open their eyes and they are adorable to watch. I will try to post a picture of them soon.
Thanks to all who are praying me through this and for those who have volunteered to feed my family at home.

Tues. update

2010-09-28T18:30:00.000-07:00

Just a quick update. Today was radiation #2 and rabbit hormone therapy #2. The rabbit one is still going on but so far is not as bad as they said it would be. Judy York came be for a visit and got dressed up special to come and visit. I have been sleeping most of the day; ... a reaction to the drug I would suppose. Well hope all you family is well and enjoying each other.

2010-09-27T13:50:00.000-07:00

I have completed my first radiation treatment..other than the hard table everything went fine. The only problem so far has been my blood sugars are through the roof because of the predisone and othe meds. they are giving me. Also they dont have my concentrated insulin so it makes things a little more complicated But the bed is sure nice here! It is an kind of air bed that blows up around you and is very very soft and comfortable.
Well it is time to start my ATG which is stuff from a rabbit. Will add more later.

Sat. a day of reflection

2010-09-25T05:00:00.001-07:00

Sat. is normally resting from the week and preparing for the next week. Today is no different except with a little more discomfort from the last day or so. I am always amazed at what has happened when I look back on a week. Most of the time I feel like nothing is getting done while the week is happening and then looking back makes be feel like lots has been accomplished. This must have something to do with "perspective". The same holds true of raising children...while in the midst I am not sure things will work out but then a chance to look back and see the growth and wow... change has been made. I think we often need these chances to look back to enable us to want to go on. We are such tangible humans...we need to see that we are needed and making a difference to someone.
I am glad that God is so secure in the fact of us needing him and that he has sacrificed himself to make a difference in our lives that he never wavers of frets about his love and impact on our lives. He is the tree planted by the water who does not waver in the wind and he can give us the same strength when we ask. OK God, I want to be a huge old oak tree that provides shade and comfort, a place of shelter, limbs to climb on and have fun in for both my family and friends. I know that together we can and will do this...Thanks

Pictures of my new digs

2010-09-23T21:49:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures of my home away from home. It is a studio but very nice. It has lots of extra floor space and gets good light. There is a small patio outside the door.
Julie and I completed lots of appointments today and a class as well. Tomorrow recheck in radiation and then a central line catheter put in. Sat. is a day free from doctors and then Sun. it is to the hospital for a week.

Thanks

2010-09-23T01:34:00.001-07:00

Today is labs, Xrays, then paperwork, a Dr.'s visit and a catheter class at Stanford. Starts at 8:30 and ends at 5:00. Pretty busy day. Lots of sitting and wait as well. That is how it always seems to be...hurry, sit and wait, hurry etc...
That seems to be life as well...hurry (try to get lots done quickly) and then sit and wait (we have to learn to let others take their time to get something done, we learn we can't control time and results) then hurry again when results come in (once again trying to control what is happening in our lives). I am learning more patience than I ever thought possible. Also, to trust God more with even the little things such as timing. It doesn't benefit me or others around me if I lose control, get depressed, or react to what is going on the wrong way. Don't worry * I still have emotions about what is happening but learning to not let them take control is a daily lesson I am dealing with. It is great that I truly believe that God is in control, not necessarily responsible for what I am going through, but has promised to be with me through what life brings.
It is also great that God has given me a big family whose support and love I could not live without. A great group of friends as well. So I want to thank all of you who have helped me through the last 5 years of cancer and who are helping me and my family now through the next 4 months as well.
I was reminded yesterday that although I am the one who has cancer - the whole family also suffers from cancer as well. So please pray for Larry and my kids (both big and small). This will be a great learning time for them that God and our love for each other can get us through this and keep us together.
Thanks
Lisa

One long night

2010-09-22T01:38:00.000-07:00

Tonight has been long and somewhat hard. Not for me to much but for Georgia. Her second litter was born...Birth order Black female, Cow looking female, White/Tan female, Black with 4 white paws and white tip tail female, solid black twin girls (they shared a sac and were born on top of each other)and last but not least a black and white male. A total of 7 puppies. First puppy born at 10:05pm and the last one was born 4:45 am. At least we think it is the last...she keeps surprising us.

The calm before the storm

2010-09-21T17:56:00.000-07:00

It is Tues. night and all quiet and calm. I am moved into my new space and now have the internet. Today has been a day of rest. Julie is on her way here now after she got off work. She will stay with me for the rest of the week taking me to lots of out patient appointments and then will check me into the hospital on Sun. to begin radiation and treatment. It is amazing how little we can live with. Sparse is nice especially for those who will have to take care of it. Dinner time is upon us and we are having hamburgers...yum. I am told that my food likings and ability to swallow will change. There is a massive diet for me to follow...I have never been to good at this but Julie and Rebecca will help me stay true. Besides who wants to have more problems from not following instructions. I hope to get some crafts finished and some Christmas presents made...lots of sit around time during the next 4 months. Got to go eat...

Time is ticking away

2010-09-16T23:50:00.000-07:00

Tues. was spent at Stanford talking to a Social worker, then a class on what to expect during the treatment times at Stanford. Lots of information- most of which was already written in the book but no harm in rehashing it. Then home to a delicious dinner made by David and Jonathan and wonderful company with my older kids. Chicken, garlic mashed potatoes, and asparagus. These are a few of my favorite things.....la,la, la,
Wed. I ran some errands with David...or should I say I rode with David while he ran a few of my errands.
Thurs. was a day of rest. I was tired from Tues, and Wed. Made lots of phone calls trying to arrange things for the future.
Today which is Fri. will be spent at Stanford again. In the Radiology/Oncology dept. getting X-rayed and measured for blocks and stuff for all the radiation I must receive during the treatment. Two full weeks of radiation, some days with 3 treatments...doesn't really sound like fun but.... Then Larry and I will go and see the apartment that I will be living in for the next few months and make a plan of what all I will need there to be comfortable. Then home.
Sat. should be full of packing and planning. The kids will be at fair selling their animals.
Sunday is move Day! Larry and Anna will help me move or I will watch them move me. Then they will spend the night with me in the new place and thus begins a busy week of appointments and test and adventure. Julie will come Tues. night and take over caregiver job for the rest of the week and weekend till I enter the hospital on the 26th.
Need to get together entertainment, audio books, movies, good music etc for the weeks ahead. After all this time I am getting a mixture of excited and nervous to get the program started so it will end... I am just relieved and resting in the Lord that he has a good plan for me and that he will not give me more than I can handle. He has given me a future and a hope! This is quite literal for me after 5 years of no hope for a cure. God is soooo very good.

Labor Day

2010-09-06T16:34:00.000-07:00

All Dr.s appointments and test completed! It is great to look forward to a week with no appointments. Time to relax and help kids get ready for fair. Just one week till the animals go in. Then our home will be goat free. It will feel weird but nice at the same time.
We will however have puppies...
So for labor day...Larry and kids have labored checking off the to do list. Anna and I and Grandmom have been cooking up a storm for a family get together. I really love it when every one comes together for how ever long it goes.
So tonight, we have 3 kinds of sausage, hot dogs, ribs, baked potaotes with all the fixings, chinese chicken salad, baked beans, deviled eggs, apple cake and choc. mint cake.
My job is now to eat and enjoy....Hope your day is great.

Blog's reminds me of God's faithfulness

2010-09-04T02:07:00.000-07:00

It has been fun rereading some of the old post on here. The one theme that keeps coming to mind though is God's faithfulness throughout life. My life to be specific. Reading them brings back to mind all the blessing he has given us over the years, and the great people and fiends in our lives. It tells of the things he has brought us through and how he has provided for the needs in our lives both great and small. Maybe the blogging time was well worth it...It has so helped to get a God view of what is going on in my life instead of a confused, self absorbed one that this time can bring.

What is a BMT???

2010-09-03T02:43:00.000-07:00

When we went to Stanford to start the process of the possibility of a Bone Marrow Transplant *BMT from now on...they talked to us for a couple of hours. Explained some of the process, then handed us a binder that is about 2 inches thick with information to go home and read through. I should have known from that alone the BMT was more complicated than I thought. At that visit they sent me to the lab to draw some blood - 16 and I mean reg. vials of blood were drawn for every possible test and to find a match.
The main reason for the BMT is because the medicine to control the cancer has built up in my body and become toxic to me. It makes me nonfunctional and very sick. We have changed the meds, reduced the meds., and still I can not handle what they do to me. The only possibility of a cure is the BMT. So we push forward and the Lord has paved the way for many things to happen. First, he not only provided me with a match for a donor but 4 matches...this is more than unusual. He has made sure that insurance covers most of the cost...there will be a large out of pocket expense but most is covered. Next, he has provided me with a supportive family and grown children who are willing to chip in to make this happen over the next 4-6 months. Also, I am suppose to be able to come home around Jan. 19th...my birthday is the 20th and to celebrate by coming home cancer free seems to be a dream come true.
The process is long with periods of pain and discomfort, but it is not all bad. Starting the 24th some of the pain begins, then a hospital stay for 6 days begins on the 26th, then one week out patient radiation daily treatments continue with Oct. 8th the actual BMT and a new me is born...Oct. 7th is Larry's b'day...God has great timing huh?! This will be followed by at least 100 days of trying to get the donor immune system up and working inside me, finishing off the cancer and making me stronger. These days will be filled with lab test, dr.s visits, and lots of waiting on the Lord. During those 100 days I am susceptible to any little disease so am not allowed to go out, have visitors, see the kids (little and big germ bombs).. This gives you a little idea of the days that lie ahead for us. Let's just say Larry is not use to being on his own with out me, nor I him. They say absence makes the heart grow fonder....we shall see

Marathon Dr. Visits...How many can you do in a week?

2010-09-03T02:40:00.000-07:00

You will notice that there are three post for the same date...started out on VOX but they are closing down and I changed back to the really old blog that I used to do. Sorry about the change.
Today I had a Dr. appointment at 1:40 and before 2:00 I had another one.....By the time I was home there were two more waiting for me. So as follows Thurs. 8:00 Trans-thoracic complete echo, 1:00 Resp.diagnostic monitoring with pulmonary function test. Fri. morning 8:00 am a Bone Marrow aspiration and biopsy with cytogenetics. Followed by blood test, chest Xrays....and of course I am suppose to be sure and get rest in between. So I think I will be more than ready to go to Stanford and get some rest. Next week looks more peacful and quiet but, then again we haven't gotten to next week....I guess busy is better than bored.
I really thank God we have insurance...It is amazing how much they cover and will continue to cover during the rest of this process. Not sure how the new "government" plan would do but at least it will be done before I will have to find out.

New Beginning,New End, then to begin again

2010-09-03T02:37:00.000-07:00

Well, Sept. 1st has come and this is the time that my life is centered around a new beginning and the hope of a great end, followed by another beginning. We are days away from a bone marrow transplant that will last for at least 4 months of treatment. Followed by the end of cancer and the beginning of a new life without cancer. Between the 1st and the 26th of this month there will be test, followed by more test, and appointments with various Dr.'s and people to get everything all set and ready for the green light.
As a family we have many things that we need to arrange to try and make this whole process go smoothly. Care givers, cars, apartments, food, appointments, classes to learn about the whole process, insurance information, schedules, schooling, fair (the end to our goats), keeping me away from sick people and germs, and the list goes on. Please pray that both Larry and I do not get to stressed out with all that needs to be done - he is really feeling the weight of responsibility - while I sometimes feel sad that I can not do more to be his help mate and take some burdens from him.
The whole process that I must go through to get ready for the transplant and the recovery from the transplant are very complicated and hard to explain. My plan is to keep this blog updated when I can about the process and in that way relieve Larry from having to rehash all that is going on.
We have located an apartment for myself and a care giver in Sunnyvale closer to Stanford. I must remain close to Stanford and the doctors there for about 4 months. Since my immune system will be down, I am not allowed to go out, have visitors, see the kids...meaning a long separation from Larry and the family. This will be hard for all of us.
We all know and feel that the Lord is leading us to do this and that he will provide for our needs (both physical and emotional) through this time. He has proven faithful to us throughout the years and will remain a rock and shelter for us during this unsettling time in our lives.

2008-01-08T21:17:00.000-08:00

Jan. 2008

It hardly seems that a full year has come and gone. So much has happened in this last year. The best thing is how the year ended. I received news in the middle of Dec. that the increased medicines has decreased the bad chromosomes in the blood. This is a really good thing and I truly am feeling sooooooo much better. Then to top that off..........all the kids were here for Christmas. That's right...12 kids all under one roof. David, Jared and Rachel, Jonathan and Julie, Rebecca and her soon to be husband Daniel, my Daniel, Roger, Anna, Robert and Andrew. For all the people it was the calmest Christmas I have had in a while. We spent time with each other....playing with each others toys. The boys and a few girls shot a black powder gun, BB gun, and cap gun. We then moved to archery. And of course there was the electronic helicopters and hoover crafts flying in all directions. We ate well and played Canasta by the hours. Before Christmas we took care of some of the wedding plans and even made appointments to take care of more wedding plans after Christmas. Then like all good things...kids had to go back to their homes and places and life at home settled down to a quieter routine. All in all - a great end of the year and beginning of a new year.

A time for Thanks

2007-11-06T20:42:00.000-08:00

Nov. has arrived with all its activities and cooler weather. I started the month out with a quick, and I mean quick trip to TX to visit all that I could see there. Went to Waco and saw Rachel and Jared, my brother and mother, Rebecca and her Daniel, and last but not least my Daniel. We saw and worked on Rachel's classroom, ate out, shopped, ate out some more, went to a movie, ate out even more. I think we all enjoyed ourselves even if it was for different reasons...at least we all had a chance to spend some time loving on each other. Then home to spend some time with my best friend Cindy on Mon., Tues. brought some medical test and 4H archery. Wed. we have a field trip to a pizza place and Georgia goes to the groomers to become beautiful...and I am not sure if there is a free hour to sit down on Thurs. with dentist, vet visit, teacher visits, and company for dinner. I wanted to share a song that has really touched my heart at this time in my life...I will let it speak for itself.
GRACE FOR THE MOMENT
lyrics by Tricia Walker & Buddy Greene
music by Buddy Greene
Grace for the moment, all that I need
Grace for the moment and faith to receive
The promises given to those who believe
Grace for the moment, all that I need.

When I fret over outcomes that I cannot see
It's for certain I'll not have the peace meant for me
But when with thanksgiving I just look to Him
He will answer me time and again with

chorus

If I understand faith, it's not counting on me
It's the hope and assurance of what I can't see
It's the daily relying on Jesus to be
Providing more grace faithfully
Further proving His great love for me with

And with all that said....God has been loving me a lot recently...hope you are all feeling his love and grace as well. This is truly something to give THANKS for as Thanksgiving approaches

2007-10-02T21:21:00.000-07:00

Well here is the news from the sunny, but colder than normal bamboo forest in CA. Oct. has started out with a bang. In just the first week we will celebrate Larry's bday...and I will post more on that later.
I had another cancer dr. appointment. 5 short weeks ago I saw him and he thought that I might be close to remission so we sent blood work to Stanford and waited for the results. I was suppose to be going in to see what the next steps would be. Surprise, when I arrived the finger stick showed an elevated WBC...out of limits that are allowed. Let's not worry about it yet till I get the results from Stanford....so the results came in while I was on my way home. The counts have all increased and we are not increasing my meds... that's right. The really nasty one that swells my face and makes me feel all warm and queasy inside... So other than having a big emotional upset...when you think your winning and then the score board doesn't say you are....you just go to your knees and tell the coach that you will keep on trying and to let you stay in the game. And of course, he will keep you playing as long as he can and he has a great game plan...I just don't know it yet. I think the hardest part was telling all the team players...not being able to hug the girls and tell them it will be alright...looking at the boys faces and seeing that they don't know how to react...and praising God for the grace that the little ones truly don't understand or comprehend what lies ahead.
So after a day of increased meds...my stomach stopped hurting right before dinner....I take the meds after dinner and it starts again. But at least I had a great hamburger (homemade) and beans with home grown tomatoes... I just hope I don't loose more of my taste buds like I did when I started the meds....I LIKE FOOD!
Well another road to travel down, another day to trust God for the little things since I already trust him with the big stuff (I learned that I can't do anything about the big stuff). And now another night to rest the old bag of bones and see if I can keep Larry awake with my snoring.....Life is Good...the other option is not so good.

2007-09-27T14:51:00.000-07:00

Sept. is coming to a close. Much has happened in the Gullman family. We all went to fair (except Dad just came for a short visit with Jonathan)for a long fivc days. We had meat goats for the first time. So of course there were pens to clean, goats to clean and feed, pens to decorate, and of course fair food to consume. We worked in the clover deli selling food for 4H, worked taking pictures in the GVCC booth for community service, and made lots of new friends.

Then we came home to starting school, doctors appointments, getting some year round goats. I also went to Pastor Koppers wedding. While that may seem sort of normal...Pastor Kopper is 90 years old. He is full of life and chose a beautiful bride. After the wedding Jared (Rachel's husband) arrived with Doug (a college friend) and a well driller machine. The visit was very short but is was fun.

Now we are preparing for Andrew to turn 8 in a day or so. So life marches on...Soon it will be Dad's b'day and then Mom Gullman comes for two weeks...and Oct. will be over before we know it.

Where have all the days gone??

2007-08-20T20:32:00.000-07:00

It is hard to believe that summer is coming to a close. It seems like only yesterday school ended and summer adventures began. Yet, time is gone and life long memories have been made. May was a big graduation month for us with Rachel and Jonathan both graduating from LETU. And I will add with honors as well. Then home to CA and plans were set into play.

A sailing trip of grand perportion was planned. Larry, David, Jonathan,Daniel, and Roger set sail to see how far south they could go. With adventure and excitement mixed with days of boredom and windless seas the days passed. It would be 40 days before Larry came home and almost 60 before the rest of the crew would set foot on American soil.

Mom and the girls and young boys had another type of adventure. We hosted two young ladies from France and had a great time showing off our great views and culture to them. I also had several great opportunities to get to know my future son-in-law Daniel over the summer. That is right Rebecca is getting married next May "08". We attended concerts, parades, movies, dinners, beach trips, shopping, church, aquariums, ostrich farm tours, boardwalk, Dairy Queen (soft serve cones, not available in France), plays at the local college... and spent lots of time laughing and having fun.

Then we finished off with a trip for the whole family to Mexico to pick up the boys and spend some time in the sun. After a good amount of sunburn and fish we returned home to leave Julie at her new home for the school year in Azusa. We also left Daniel and Rebecca there to start their trip to LETU and Texas. Then finished and drove home and have settled in for the first day of school and back to work.

Well I will be posting more in the future. I seem to have remember the password and codes to be able to start back up this time consuming activity.

2007-03-02T10:33:00.000-08:00

Well another week has ended. I am actually feeling like I am able to get more done in a week. Yesterday I had to see the heart specialist....and while he says my heart is under stress...I do not have congestive heart failure. Lots of water retention so double the lasix and potassium. It is all due to the Gleevec I think. If the Leukemia doesn't kill me I am sure the treatment might. Just teasing although it feels like it at times. Next Mon. I send more blood to Stanford. I have mixed feelings about this...if the blood work is better then I have to have a bone marrow test...if not then more medicine and time. I have to take the medicine anyways... I am scared about the bone marrow...I never have been one to like pain and not much has changed.
I have started making plans for the next few months. It helps keep the depression at bay and gives me something to look forward to. So after Easter, we shall get on the road and take a vacation...hopefully for several weeks and end up in TX the beginning of May for two kids graduations! I am very proud of all the hard work they both have put into their education...the money too.
The La Honda house is rented again. Larry has been working weeks and weeks to get it ready. Still has a few more weeks but hopefully before March is up he will be done. He put in a new bamboo floor in the loft bedroom up front. Looks cool with all the stripes. He is having Jim come up and help clean up the entry way and gravel the driveway.
It is also Fri. so date night is tonight. We go in the back office which is attached to our bedroom and eat dinner without the kids, watch a movie and then get in the hot tub. The rule of thumb is, no blood or guts don't interrupt.

Week three

2007-02-21T16:57:00.000-08:00

After being in bed mostly for three days...I am up for a short period of time. Larry lovingly looked at me and asked if I was taking those water pills cause he had never seen me so puffy. It is so nice how he put it. I basically have lost my neck and facial features due to the medicine and water weight. I look and feel like the good year blimp...just hopefully not as grey. The good new is that my white blood count is down...the bad so is my red blood cell count..below where it needs to be. I keep hoping that this will be the worse of it...and I guess I have to wait and see.
It is time for bed again...I am glad that I like my bed. So does Georgia. She seems to sense that all is not well with her mistress...she keeps trying to clean my ears as if that will help. At least she is content to stay across me in the bed, guarding me from who knows what.
This Fri. Larry and I will be married 28 years. Some times it really feels like a life time and others I still wonder who is this man that I married. Guess that is what I like about him...some comfort and he keeps me guessing.

Week one

2007-02-07T01:50:00.000-08:00

It has been a full week. Sometimes the days pass so quickly (as with the kids growing up) and sometimes it passes slowly (as in waiting for test results). One week of constant nausea. Still lots of up and downs in the energy dept. But the news came in that the medicine is starting to do what it is suppose to. My WBC and platelet count are coming down. So I guess it is all worth while.
Meanwhile back on the ranch or should I say at the Bamboo Farm...Daniel has graduated from HS. He has completed all his work assignment and been awarded a diploma from the local charter school. He can't pick up his diploma till June but it will say Dec. 2006! He has also started the local college full time with 21 hrs. Since he has already enough credits to be a soph. I will not question his sanity. Just trying to get some stuff out of the way before LETU...and some people think I am an over achiever.??!
At the ranch where the kids have science day each week....baby goats have been born. They got to watch and experience it all. I think there are about 10 new little ones. Yesterday was horn bud burning, vaccination day, and weigh in. It was also play with your friends until you drop day. They love going to the Covingtons.
Wed. is stay at home and try to catch up on school work day, straighten the house day, and go to church night. Hopefully I will have the energy to supervise all these wonderful activities...if not oh well....such is life.

Treatment and Hope

2007-01-24T00:14:00.000-08:00

It is amazing how much hope we can put into one pill...or should I say a series of pills. For one months prescription it is $4,000.00/ or $133.00 per day. And I get to take these for the rest of my life... Sure glad we have prescription coverage. These magical pills are suppose to decrease my WBC and block the production of the chromosome that produces my leukemia. I will need these pills or ones like them for the rest of my life. At least there is treatment and hope. Of course there is a need for pre-approval so it will be a few days before I start this regimen. Then blood test weekly and another big blood test in 8 weeks will go to Stanford for more results.
And I got good news from the ultra sound. While my liver and spleen are enlarged there are no masses. They feel that with treatment they may return to normal! And the breathing will get easier as well.

2007-01-19T22:13:00.000-08:00

So much has happened since the Fri. before New Years. It is amazing how one phone call can affect your life. Really it wasn't the phone call as much as the uncertainty that it brought. After another heart cat...which was gratefully clear and clean...just a drop of blood and lots of doctors got excited. So to the cancer specialist I went...was told I had one of two blood disease...more blood test and lots of days of waiting ...but the results are in.
I definitely have chronic myeloid leukemia. While this is not curable it is treatable. This was the better of the two choices of what they were looking for. I go Tues. for a treatment plan and I also am having an ultra sound on my spleen, liver, and gall bladder. They feel that my liver and spleen have definite damage due to not catching this in time...
It is nice to be able to rest in the fact that God numbered my days before I was even born and he will take care of me all of those days as well as the rest of my family. Yes, I do have mixed emotions, ups and downs with what I can do each day but God still proves faithful.
So here at the end of this turmoilous day...I get to look forward to tomorrow....MY BIRTHDAY. So Jan. is an eventful month...I was born...Rachel was born...my Dad died...I find out I have cancer...and still God is faithful....he will not give us anything without providing the help we need to get through it....Come quickly Feb.!

Holidays are coming

2006-11-11T14:56:00.000-08:00

Well...It is that time again. Time for the Christmas wish list. Then Mom tries her best to find the best deals and make some of the wishes come true. All this can start since I bought the turkeys for Thanksgiving. That is the sign that the holidays are nearing.....Anticipation starts to grow. I have everyone's Christmas eve presents done and or ordered. Besides with so many in the house ( and lots outside the house as well) it will take a while just to try and get something for everyone.
Thanksgiving is shaping up nicely. I was concerned because it seemed no one was able to come for the great "Turkey Day". But now my brother (Paul) and Julie are coming! Only a few weeks....down girl down. Wonder how long it will take us to eat 42 or so pounds of turkey?? I see lots of creativity coming on with leftovers. Our pig is also due from the shop...in nice small white packages. So we will have more meat than an Adkins dieter could dream of.
I also made reservations for Mt. Herman Christmas concert and dinner. This is always a fun family thing...now who can I get to come with us???
Well colds and the rains have come to CA and the Gullman house. It is interesting to see who falls prey to the germs first and how hard they fall. Andrew always seems to get it worse and first. Then it filters through the house seeking whom it may devour. As long as it is gone by Thanksgiving. We can allow the rain to stay...keeps the bamboo growing and decreases the pollen.
Gotta go for now....check with you later

Moving Day

2006-10-16T17:31:00.000-07:00

Today is the "Big Moving Day". Everything has been packed...for a while. Larry picked up the truck and the car carrier....and now they are loading. I am not sure how long that will take but after looking at all the boxes, furniture, piano, etc...I am sure it will take a little while. David, Dad, Daniel, and the kids are helping....I know better and am staying out of the way. I will make a nice dinner and feed the hungry crew.
We rented the place next door to two teachers... both seem very nice and one has two children 7 and 8....for a few days of the week. Hope it all works out o.k. At least we will not be vacant for long since they move in on Fri.
We had lunch with Ray and Judy York today from Green Valley Christian Center. You can check out the web site that Larry is doing for the church....gv-cc.org He is having fun and getting to know some neat Christian guys at the same time. I got a recipe for pupusas today to make for a mission fair at GVCC soon. So Rachel and kids who went to Chile as well ---- guess what I am going to make over Christmas break....you got it. I really love the pork and potato ones....

One of those silly test

2006-09-30T16:58:00.000-07:00

I have not done one of these before...I always thought they were silly and could never understand or be real.....well, if you know me......

You scored as A coloring book

Children love you--and so do many adults. They find you approachable, simple and friendly, all of which perfectly describe you. Instead of throwing big words around, you communicate in the international language of pictures. In order to be as open as possible, you present yourself simply, allowing those around you to customize you to their liking. Sometimes this results in you turning into a primitive masterpiece, and other times you resemble a schizophrenic's daydream. So long as the one talking to you understands you, you're happy. Zen and the art of crayon-sharpening.

A coloring book 82%
Poetry 57%
The back of a froot loops box 50%
A college textbook 46%
A paperback romance novel 43%
A classic novel 36%
An electronics user's manual 29%

I am actually surprised that I even had a score in the electronics manual...some of Larry must be rubbing off on me after 27 plus years..

2006-09-28T07:37:00.000-07:00

Alas, more time has passed and many things have been accomplished. Yet, the list grows longer as each new day breaks. Then I am reminded by the Lord....the list will not last...I can die with a long list and it will not make any eternal difference but, it I die without doing things with and for people then I will have lived a life in vain. Many things on my list are for people; laundry, meals, shopping, cleaning, etc...so I will continue to check off needed things on my list. I can not abandon all and play with no consequences....such is life.
Older kids all seem to be in a place where the Lord wants them. It is hard to believe that this year I have two graduating from college...one graduating from HS and still have a K-1 in the mix.
It has turned cold and damp today so we shall have broc. soup and grilled cheese for lunch...an easy fix and family favorite. Andrew had lots of fun on his birthday. He turned 7 Tues. and got a new bike from his older brothers and sisters and us. He had strawberry cake and "banilla ice tream"....Sometimes I think it would be nice to be young again...until I teach school.....then I am glad that I get to choose which school work we do!

My first chat room

2006-09-24T22:10:00.000-07:00

Today was the first time I was ever in a chat room. It was so much fun talking to all the kids at the same time. Sometimes it got confusing because their typing has improved and is fast so everyone talked at the same time...but it is like that at home too. Even Daniel was reading over my shoulder so I had 3 kids at LETU and 1 kid at APU and 1 kid at home all involved. Boy has college and conversation come a long way since I was in college. Of course it wasn't that long ago...(right Mom).
This next Tues. is Andrews 7th birthday. The kid is growing up, way to fast, yet not fast enough at times. He has made major changes since 18 months.....takes time to reminisce. Farm class on Tues. for the 3 older and Thur. afternoon for Andrew also begin this week. We start back to swim practice....lets see, oh yes we also have the dentist appointment for all. Thank heavens since Robert seems to have another tooth/gum infection....that kid.
Daniel has his first really big paper in Eng. due on Tues. and he seems to have writers block....he always seems to have writers block. He did get a B on his first paper so when he gets started it doesn't come out all bad. Of course there is also Algebra/Trig/Calculus homework due along with Physics. One busy boy this semester - if he survives this semester...real college should seem like a breeze....maybe.
Well it is late and I twisted my knee getting out of the hot tub so I need to go and ice it....such a klutz am I. Goodnight to all......Have a great week.

2006-09-02T17:20:00.000-07:00

As promised some pictures of the backyard...and one of Georgia as well.

A week in the life of MoM

2006-09-02T16:38:00.000-07:00

Lots has happened this last week....Fast recap.
We had a county wide poultry meeting here on Sun. about how to prepare birds for fair. Mon. I had a doctors appoint for my knee and then drove to Azusa to take Julie to school. Stayed in a nice hotel...it is hot there. Tues. Daniel begin college classes as well as my 3 at LETU. We checked into Julie's apt. and carried and carried and carried and carried...well you get the idea. Wed. morning I woke up and dropped Julie at her new "home away from home". Then drove home with no great events except some traffic....thanks Lord. Went shopping to get food...got home in time for dinner...then off to a bible study. Home to bed Thurs. was the true beginning of our multi class home school...the afternoon was spent going to the dentist about a tooth I cracked...will be fixed next Thur. Fri. found us going to the HS to find out that Daniel will graduate in Dec. Only 2 1/2 years....not bad. Plus he has way more credits than he needs but needed specific classes. Then we had speech for Robert and Anna...while David, Andrew and I shopped for the Labor Day weekend....bank, Chinese food, Long's drug...then home for date nite with Larry. We are watching some Stargates..and soaking in the hot tub. Today has been relaxing with Larry finishing a painting, getting Spanish started for Daniel and Roger, some house clean up, and I even listed some more books. Tonight it is Tom Randall at church with a b'bque and activities afterwards. Then home and the start of a new week tomorrow.....How time flies?!?!?!?

Two off on their way

2006-08-23T10:30:00.000-07:00

Well Rebecca and Jonathan have left for LETU. It is hard to believe that summer is over and school has begun. Yet, time and calendars do not lie,nor do they wait for anyone. Of course I end the summer with a nasty cold and cough...the kind where you just droop around the house trying to figure out what you are doing. This next Mon. I take college kid 4 off to APU for her junior/senior year. Can't believe that there will be 4 off at school....1 attending the local college and finishing his senior year in HS. Where have the years gone to.? I am so proud and yet so puzzled how they all seem to survive growing up.
It is time to start getting ready for fair. Entries and gardens and booths to build and fill. As well as classes to start and books to complete. Challenges...that is what makes it important to get up and see what the day has to offer.
Challenge for today.
Are you living life by the clock or the compass? "I am the Way and the Truth and the Life" John 14:6 It is the compass that should lead us in the right direction (way), to do the right thing (truth), and have the right priorities (kingdom focus) The clock only races ahead of us...making us long for more time in a day, but the compass shows us where to go next, guiding and leading each step.
Well hope you are having a great day....and that you know that no matter the miles between us... I will be thinking of you and praying for you.

2006-08-06T17:41:00.000-07:00

Can't believe summer is almost over. Where did it go??? Seems like just yesterday Rachel was getting married ... how time flies when we aren't looking. Just a few things have filled the summer calendar. Physical therapy 3 times a week for a hour or two took up most of the squares....then raising animals, a new dog, swimming, 4H camp, awards banquets, home bible studies, a new roof on a house in LaHonda, some new jobs for college kids, cooking, cleaning, shopping.....just to mention a few. After Aug.13 (Rebecca's big shin dig) I will post some pictures of the remodel of the back yard as well....which is what is taking up time at this moment. Just finished submitting fair entries for Sept. And life goes on and on and on and on....

The official pictures are up

2006-07-20T21:24:00.000-07:00

The official pictures are up on the gullman.com website. Enjoy...Larry made the titles to go with them.

2006-06-30T09:52:00.000-07:00

Introducing some of the newest additions to the Gullman family...It is important to notice the "size and cuteness" factors as to their current and future housing assignments. While Georgia is adorable and only 5 pound she resides in everyones lap, the desk top, anywhere she wants. While the other additions do have some of the cuteness factor...they are just not given the status that Georgia has recieved. Chops,Hazel, and the "other one" were cute enough to get their own rooms with a view. Each seems to have their own advantage.

Wedding photos

2006-06-27T19:59:00.000-07:00

Till I get a more official picture up...there are snap shots of the wedding on gullman.com go to Jonathan and click...then to image gallery on the left and click and then to Wheeler wedding. It is a round about way but he took the pictures and put them up and I don't know how to do that...so I will take what is there.

Wedding pictures

2006-06-25T17:04:00.000-07:00

I hope to have the wedding pictures up on the gullman.com web site by July 1st. Check it out after that date and click on Rachel.....

Leadership

2006-06-25T16:45:00.000-07:00

Today's thought..........
Leadership is not a title or a position. It is the ability to influence people.
Everyone is a leader.
If this is true...who do you lead? and how do you lead?
Godly?. good?, just get by?, or even bad?
Do you need to be perfect to lead or to be a good leader? NO!
If this is also true then who leads us? and who do we allow to influence us?
Hopefully our leader is Christ who was and is perfect.
The sign of admiration is imitation....so who do we mimic?
Will those we influence who follow in our footsteps see Christ?
This is just a summary of what was said today in Church. Anyway it made me think about the leadership I provide and the influence I have....and how I need to improve it by not loosing sight of Christ the perfect leader.

Summer

2006-06-12T10:12:00.000-07:00

Summer is here, Rachel is married and vacation on the drive home is done....Wonder why I feel sorta tired?? Oh and my leg is almost healed and I started physical therapy. Now I remember why I am getting tired. Getting over a broken knee cap is sure taking it's time. But this week the brace can start coming off for short periods of time and I can try to start walking on it....Just 10 weeks since I broke it. Such a hassle.. Next time I break something...it had better be winter...if one can plan the next break....maybe never! Well, we have one down and nine to go...no rush though. Larry and I think it might be best to pay the others to leave quietly or buy them ladders and a red runner....Not really. Especially the boys...we need to make sure they have BIG weddings...just teasing.
Rebecca is going to work some this summer teaching swimming...which is great! That is what she wants to do after college too...speaking of college she is also getting ready to go to LETU just like her Mom and Dad, brother and sister did...Great family tradition.
We also have two pigs now. Roger and Anna Raquel are raising them for the Santa Cruz county fair. They are living in the upper pasture with some stray roosters that we didn't want to keep in the chicken coop. Georgia is growing...very slowly but showing all the energy of a small puppy. We watched a training video last night so training will begin later today as soon as I get the proper gear. I think she will learn quick...maybe quicker than I will. I will post a picture of her soon.
The day is started and I must go and see what the other small versions of people are doing now....Hope you have a great day.

Going to a wedding......

2006-04-25T17:58:00.000-07:00

Only a few more days to go and I will be off to Texas. That is if the airlines lets me on. I am sure that they will. Almost everything seems to be done...or at least all the things that count. We picked up the wedding dress, an evening dress (for the new husbands graduation dinner), shoes, ordered flowers....and you who are married know of the list. I am sure we will forget something but that will just give her stories to tell later. They still have to figure out where to put their heads until married housing becomes available...more great stories. As well as they all need to study, write papers, pass finals...just those little things to get out of the way.
The good news is that I am getting a puppy! We are picking it up after the wedding near Atlanta GA. So I loose a daughter but gain a puppy....or was that gain a son and a puppy???
Supper is on....and I didn't have to cook it or plan it. A friend brought it by and all we have to do is eat it....Another huge blessing!

2006-04-23T15:52:00.000-07:00

A much needed rest

2006-04-22T08:03:00.000-07:00

After a much needed rest....I still get to sit around and rest some more. They say when it rains....it pours. After days and days of rain the sun is finally shining. Only problem is I will not be able to just walk outside to enjoy it. Tues. evening found me getting a special ride in a what my children say is a "really cool vehicle". I found my way via ambulance to the emergency room where great "drugs" were served via IV. I slipped in our front room, landing all my weight, (No comments here) on my left knee. Upon hearing the crack and snap, as well as feelimg great pain, I decided to deny my husbands offer of help to get me to the hospital and rely on the generosity of strangers.....they can give drugs of great relief...Larry can not! It was confirmed that I broke my knee cap into pieces and then the discussion of "how to repair the damage ensued". At last it was decided that I would travel by another ambulance to another hospital that had good orthopedic doctors and stay there. They transferred me and then the decision not to operate was made (thank God for big blessings). My decision not to be moved proved valuable since my knee cap was ,while in pieces, at least all the the pieces were close so as not to be needed to wire them. Another day of bliss from pain due to IV drugs, a few messy procedures to drain the knee of excess stuff and a special leg brace and I am now home. I may walk on it if the pain is not too great, must always wear this stiff metal brace (for 8 weeks) and use a walker to get around. Now for the big answer to the big question YES, I will be able to walk (with assistance and the walker) down the aisle as mother of the bride. It may not be a pretty site but I can do it. I am also planning to still fly to TX early and try to help out where I can. So pray that I won't further hurt myself and that it will heal quickly....I am already bored of all the forced sitting around.

Long time no post

2006-03-27T04:22:00.000-08:00

As you can see....right before Rachel came home for spring break....we had our first snow/hail storm. It was great to see the bamboo with the ground all white. But as you can see, spring had already sprung here. Besides it never snows in this part of "sunny CA".
Well much has happened since the last post. Rachel blew into town for her spring break. We accomplished much from the list of things to do for the wedding. We even had time for a bridal shower and some fun as well.
Then Larry and I left for the San Francisco garden show. It is a huge show in the Cow Palace that our business has a booth in. We worked for two days...stayed in a nice hotel.(perks for working) had a great meal of coconut shrimp on the way home on Sun.
Then a busy week with Daniel taking the Ca. High School Exit Exam....that even if you pass in the 10 the grade you still have to finish high school....they should come up with another name for it. But, you can not get a High School diploma if you do not pass this exam before you graduate... Then my Mom is still here. Along with all the normal stuff that needs to get done. Larry is building additions on to the house. So lots of dust, noise, and trips to Home Depot.
Larry, Daniel, and Roger spent some time in LaHonda this last weekend fixing up the rentals....but to much rain to get some of the projects done. They also got invited to a funeral for Ann Dodson...and bought another car....so another trip is needed to get the car and finish the projects.
Just got word the Jesse Cole...a boy Jonathan and Julie went to school with was just killed and they are having a service for him this next weekend. I agree with Kathy Wolf....hug your kids, you don't know how long they will be here.....This serves as official warning to mine...be prepared to be hugged.
We have started playing basketball every morning around 7:30 on the dot. David, and the rest of the family then all come in for breakfast together....It is great!!! Not sure about the hour of morning chosen to play basket ball but I love having David in for breakfast. I am really going through the eggs....chickens lay lay lay. Not that I am keeping score....you little chickens....the ducks are way ahead of you in the egg laying department.
Well the day should start here soon. I need to go get a small nap in before 7:30. It is so nice and quiet in the house from 3 am to 4 or so. The only sounds are the fish tank, some really stupid roosters outside....and of course the keyboard. So have a great day...Hug someone you love....and most of all walk in the truth.

Chudley

2006-03-05T16:40:00.000-08:00

Today my little pal and tag along died. I have shed many a tear. She has given this family lots of laughs, romps, chases, and even a few headaches. She will be missed greatly.

David's b'day

2006-02-20T21:12:00.000-08:00

Today is a great day. David my oldest just turned 24 and my gift to him was a hit. I bought him a tower for his cat to climb and play on. Jissy (she is a reformed ferrel cat, thus the name that fit the attitude) loves it as well. We had hamburgers, sauted mushrooms and onions, curly fries, and cheesecake. From a small boy he has always wanted hamburgers for his birthday...makes it easy for me to fulfill his b'day wish.
I also received a call from my best friend who became a Grandmom today. Her daughter gave her a bouncy baby boy at 5:00. Bradon Paul Larson..I am excited for them both. It seems a great day to have a boy child. At least he will always have a holiday for his birthday with the greatest....Presidents day.
My mom is here for an extended visit....going well so far. If we can keep her from getting the cough flu that we all have had....it would be great. At 80 getting sick is no fun.
Daniel and Rebecca are adjusting to their college classes. Some are much harder than they anticipated but I am confident they will both succeed.
Our 27th anniversary is Fri. How time flies. At least part of the time...it also seems to drag. It is amazing when we sat at the table and discovered that Larry was as old as David is today the year that David was born.....give one something to think about.
Well it is now time to close for the day. The sun has gone to bed....actually everyone in the house except for Daniel has gone to bed. Night - Night!

Awana Grand Prix 2006

2006-02-04T21:12:00.000-08:00

Awana Grand Prix.....Only 5 cars this year. Everyone made it all the way down the track and they weren't last. Although we did not win any speed awards we took home the design awards. Andrew (red convertible, with movable top) 6th place, Robert took 4th place with his Bamboo Giant truck, Roger took 8th place with his monster tuck design. The beautiful flower garden took 12th place in the adult division. We had lots of fun making them and then at the Grand Prix. The little lego girl racer was made by Raquel. We ate, we talked, we cheered, and played with friends. Then we came home and fell into bed.

2006-02-02T00:57:00.000-08:00

Can hardly believe it is Feb. already. Yet the calendar does not lie. 2006 has already proven it is a year of change. The biggest change is Rebecca graduating from High school and attending the local college for a semester. She has joined the college swim team and is an official Sea Hawk. So for the winter session of Jan. she has been swimming 2 hours with the college coach and 2 hours with Cabrillo Threshers coach. All that exercise has made her one ravenous eating machine. Then of course choosing which college courses to take.....worry, worry, worry. But that is all done now and in two short days Spring session will begin and a whole new set of worries will take place. Then there is the future worry of what college to go to??? LETU has accepted her but has no swim team (a definated problem) but it does have family support since Jonathan and Rachel will still both be there. Whitworth has called but we don't have a definate yes or no from them yet. (They have a swim team) but no one knows much about the college, and it is all unfamiliar territory. Daniel will be taking some of the same classes but as a concurrent HS student. So the dynamics of the house and family is changing with 5 now out of HS and only 5 left to go.
My Mom comes next week to stay for 2 months which also changes the dynamics of the family. I am looking forward to seeing her again. Of course it is FAFSA time which also means tax time...which also means tired grumpy tax preparer in the house. As well, all the planning has started for the "BIG DAY" May 5th when the family will again go under another big change. Rachel's wedding is sounding more and more exciting. Dad ask if "it" and all the planning are going to take up our lives or more to the point going to dominate our lives for the next 3-4 months....and the answer is (drum roll please) YES. Some how men just don't understand...guess that is what makes them men.
So we shall march into Feb. just waiting to see what the Lord has in store for each of us. But if we "march" into Feb. what will we do when it becomes March????

2006-01-13T14:27:00.000-08:00

Well today marks the one week before the "Big day of the month!" So keep posted and you can see what the "Big Day" is all about.
Jan. so far has been full and some fun as well. First the family went to Tahoe for the snow. We stayed just one day at the cabin...it took almost a whole day to get there...and a long day to take Larry to Reno airport and drive home the next day. Going found us in pouring rain which changed to slush, then to snow. Of course we then had to put chains on. Now for those of you who drive in this kind of weather...this is our one and only time of year to drive or should I say slide around on icy roads. Sledding, snowboarding, throwing snowballs, slipping and falling became the activities of the day while in Tahoe. In the evening it was games and hot chocolate for all. Dad went to the Reno airport to fly to Las Vegas....the annual CES show.
After the rest of the family arrived home it was two days of getting some work done, shopping for school stuff, washing clothes, putting Christmas away before Jonathan and Julie left for school.
The next week was filled with a school appointment, finishing up college applications, Daniel and Rebecca taking the college assessment test, speech, and we can never leave out the swimming practice. Zones, one of the biggest meets is this weekend. Dad has now gone to La Honda to work on redoing MSB office, then either home for church Sat. or zones on Sun. When he is done at Zones on Sun...he will go and help Michael with his house renovation so he can hopefully sell it soon. Then home for another exciting week at the Gullman home!
Next week brings two birthdays for family members....I will let you guess which ones. For now I must go and plan for the weekend....sitting in the cold....watching races....feeding hungry mouths...that sort of thing.

Another year

2005-12-29T20:29:00.000-08:00

Another year is coming to an end. Hard to believe how the time has gone. Sometimes fast and sometimes slow. Time to remember some of the highlights. Of course there were birthdays for the whole family, My mom came for a visit, Larry visited China and Vietnam, Rebecca became a lifeguard, I passed lots of heart exams and had an operation, school and school testing, three kids off in college, Mt Hermon special days X2, dentist and doctors appointments, kids home for summer, swim lessons for the youngest four, 4H camp, Julie had a heart ablation, kids working at various jobs with all kinds of hours, met Jared (future son-in-law), vacation, sailing, Daniel got his drivers permit, Santa Cruz county fair, kids back off to college, ladies retreat, Thanksgiving and Christmas, David moved home, MSB moved to Santa Cruz, Rachel became engaged, Larry became a TV star (if only for a day), Awana's on Tues. nights.....the list could go on...but WAKE UP NOW!!
Truly, the main lesson to be learned from another year of fun, fellowship, friends, family, and frustration is that God remains faithful. For this I am really thankful! I am sure that as you look back on this year, you too will see the hand of God. Sometimes he is holding us, sometimes pushing us forward, sometimes walking hand in hand, and sometimes spanking us, but he is always there.
Now we need not fear the unkown of next year but, with joy and anticipation look forward to trusting him each day. Won't it be grand to check in with each other to see what he has done in this coming year?

2005-12-24T22:45:00.000-08:00

Twas the night before Christmas
And all through the house
People were sneaking around like a mouse
The stockings were hung by the old fireplace
With fun and with laughter all over their face
They filled every stocking up to the brim
Knowing the stuff would bring a big grin
So off to the beds, the children did go
With a hug and a smile and a cherry HO! HO!
Sleep well, and remember the Christmas of old
For tomorrow old stories will all be retold
So sleep children, sleep, as well as you can
And dream of a jolly, red suited old man

2005-12-22T17:45:00.000-08:00

Last night we had Bonnie and Joe for dinner. We had seafood in a white sauce over pasta, carrots, salad and lemon meringue pie for desert. Then we all headed out to our adopted family and delivered gifts and wished them a Merry Christmas.
It is raining....actually pouring all day. Water, water everywhere! Dad and kid crew had to unload a container in the rain. They had a contest to see who would get the wettest. Then out to work on the drains to keep the flooding down.
We spent the morning working on our family web site. Julie is at work from 12-9. Rebecca has gone bowling with her swim team. We are headed out tonight to the church musical. David is hiding out in his trailer sick. Grandmom made kiwi jelly today.
Found out Evan is having surgery tomorrow so pray for him and his recovery. Not much is happening with Julie and her heart right now. We are through with most of the test and now she is just wearing the heart monitor.
Still a few more presents to wrap. But at least the shopping is done. Now for a delicious supper of green chili enchiladas.....yum!

Look who is getting married!

2005-12-21T04:10:00.000-08:00

Rachel is visiting with Jared's family in Guatemala. They had this picture taken to celebrate their engagement. Out of the 22 or so I thought this was the best. It seems like only a few years ago...I held Rachel in my arms as a baby...and now she is getting married. I guess all Moms go through these feelings as they see their children grow up. It is so weird to be excited, nervous, full of anticipation, and close to tears, but immensely happy all at the same time. I look forward to seeing how God works in their lives, drawing them close to him and each other....wishing them a long life together.
Also, there is all the wedding plans.......oh WOW! Congratulations you two!!

2005-12-17T01:10:00.000-08:00

Well Christmas is coming up fast! I have one child (Rachel) safely in Guatemala (visiting Jared's family), Julie has survived another semester and is safely home and Jonathan is coming home this morning. This accounts for the ones that are normally away. It is good to be able to see David on a daily basis since he moved home. Rebecca is going through the horrors of deciding what to do with the rest of her life...which college?...what major?....should I go away to college or stay home and go to college?... Some kids just grow up with a knowledge of what they want to do, while others fret and fear the growing up process. So far, all have survived the coming of age. While even one of ours has chosen a life partner which is a REALLY BIG decision.
Larry is going to be on TV. A gardening show is coming to the nursery tomorrow or today later and filming. It is fun to see him fret about something that is out of his normal range of activity. I am sure that he will do fine....as always. He was hoping for his own trailer with a star on it to change in. The family had a lot of fun, teasing him while he got a fresh haircut for the event. The staff have spent days spiffing up the nursery. Not sure when I have ever seen it so nice! Some how I don't think mother nature will let it stay that way for long. I will try and sneak a picture of the movie star in action and post it later.

2005-12-13T22:12:00.000-08:00

Dec. is here...it is hard to tell by the weather. We have not yet started the really rainy wet season and it isn't cold outside like in other parts of the world. Just damp, slightly cool, foggy days....so in truth winter has come. Dec. started out with 4H making cookies, awana's family (caroling) night, then martial arts class, bible study (we voted to adopt a family this year), went to Streets of Bethlehem (picture), Roberts tri-annual testing and meeting for IEP, physics labs (the redoing of many) for Daniel, 4H family game night (bingo and gifts), a little flu in the house, Robert's birthday (9 years old), Curves (exercise), 4H craft class, swimming practice (daily for Rebecca), Julie arrives home on Thurs, and Jonathan on Sat., Rachel leaves for Guatemala on Wed., we have an annual meal and concert at Mt. Hermon on Sun., and then next week starts. And of course, through it all the is the dreaded school....math, science, history......Julie is at the heart doctors Mon., and Tues. for test and monitors and then we will all sit down and makes plans for Christmas time. Wed. the church Christmas program starts, Sat. is the Christmas eve. program, Sun. is Christmas. Might want to get in a game or two of bowling, mini golf, a movie or two......some snow days......lots to talk about.
Will try to keep up a kind of report...so if Rachel checks the blog she will know what the family is up to.....besides missing her. Pray for her and the family....this will be the first Christmas away from home....she is visiting her new family.....Jared's family and home where he grew up. I know she will have fun and will fall in love with the whole kit and kaboodle

2005-11-27T00:28:00.000-08:00

The Day After.....it started out to be a slow, cold, rainy day. We were suppose to get the tree. By noon the sun had shown its face so off we went...up Hyw. 1 to the Christmas tree farm with the swings, wreaths, trees, roasting marshmallows...and other fun activities. Together the ladies made an evergreen wreath...Dad and rest of gang arrived and we chose a tree. Then on the way home we stopped for Kiwi...picked 34lbs. By now most of the day had passed and we drove home. Stopped at Long's and picked up a few needed items and then home to a great leftover dinner.

The three legged turkey

2005-11-20T19:02:00.000-08:00

As you can see Rachel's drawings have improved. Here is a three legged turkey she drew as a wee one. If you see her blog you will tell that she is quite creative. So a happy Thanksgiving to all.

2005-11-19T20:19:00.000-08:00

Well, Jared and Rachel are officially engaged. There will be a May wedding in Texas. We are so excited for them and very pleased to have Jared as a new son....hope he will be as pleased. So much is happening this month. Of course there is Thanksgiving, Turkey Day....and then the day after where we decorate the house for Christmas.
Julie is coming home on Mon. Her heart is giving her trouble again. She had to go see a new specialist. We don't know what is wrong yet....if your reading this just pray for her. She is very tired and doesn't feel well...so school is hard. She is seeing the heart specialist at home over her holiday.
Swimming is keeping Rebecca busy, as well as Cabrillo college classes, and finishing high school. She should graduate this Dec. She has another ear infection, so swimming is difficult.
School, life, awanas, bible study, work, and regular household chores take up most of the days. It is hard to imagine that almost another year is past.

2005-11-04T21:20:00.000-08:00

November is here. The weather has turned cold and wet. We don't really get fall colors here in CA. But, the rainy season starts....which is greatly appreciated when one has to pay for the water to keep a nursery green. Just as the seasons change...so did the kids rooms. All of a sudden, today of all days, they decided to move furniture. So some fall cleaning was done as well. This is a good thing, but always causes my asthma to kick in ... I must suffer so others can clean.. It is also far easier than moving from one house to another as has been done many times in my life.
Rachel and Jared are officially engaged. We are excited for both of them. Can't wait to see what the Lord has in store for them as they start a life together. Will miss Rachel when she goes to Guatemala to visit Jared's folks for Christmas. As we told Jared....there is a "sold as is" and a "no return" policy. He said he had passed that point a long time ago. Really, I am pretty proud of Larry....he had all sorts of plans for when Jared called but kept them all to himself. Their stories of the actual engagement are absolutely great to read. May their life be filled with many more events like that.
Chudley went gopher hunting today. She dug a trench in the front yard but like all hunters in this family came home empty pawed. I on the other hand, demolished a small snake the other day. I know they are good and eat rodents but my heart and hand say KILL KILL and guess which wins every time.
It is late and time for bed. We are out of Breyers cc mint ice cream and Larry is threatening divorce. Guess I will be nice and go get him some tomorrow. The cravings...and he isn't pregnant.

2005-10-24T08:44:00.000-07:00

Another week has passed. This last weekend was spent on our knees...no not praying but tiling the office, an apartment, and a bathroom. On your knees to lay the tile and on your knees to clean the tile. The saying is true.."The family that kneels together, aches together!" or something like that.
Julie was home for the weekend. She attended the wedding of a friend, worked on an art project, slept some, talked lots. Her roommate came to pick her up and asked her if she told me yet. Seems her heart is giving her some trouble...irregular beat and speedy again. So if you remember her, pray for her. Also for her roommates, they were scared when they saw it happening and were not quite sure what to do. So far it seems to have only gotten bad once. Seems the operation was not the end of it all. Only time will tell.
We have been anticipating MSB and David moving down for some time. It looks like this will be the week....on Wed. they shall start arriving. I am finding out how much I really like my grown children. They have turned out to be really cool people. Due to God's grace, and my genes! It is great to see them as they begin to make life's most important decisions on their own.
Well this week holds great promise. Lots of hours to fill, lots of school to do, lots of laundry, lots of food to cook and eat, lots of books to sell, lots of things to hand over to the Lord to take care of. I hope your week is filled with wonderful examples of what a great God we serve.

MoM was gone, But now she's back

2005-10-17T21:32:00.000-07:00

Tis Mon. night and all is well.
This weekend went really swell.
The family lived one weekend long
Much work was done while I was gone.
The kids had much to tattle on
But not to much was really wrong.
Stories to tell about their Dad
Trying to see if MoM gets mad.
The bikes were ridden off to church
The dishes even were not shurked.
All were fed, three times a day
There was even some time to play.
But alas, the call went out to soon
MoM comes home today at noon.
So with my Thanks to one and all
The ladies and I had a ball.
We talked and ate most of the day
We shared, we hugged, and then we prayed.
God's presence and his love was felt
As we sat, and stood, and knelt.
I know it is hard when I go away
But when I'm back, what a happy day.
Thanks for letting me get away!

2005-10-12T18:21:00.000-07:00

It is Wed. night, although it feels more like it should be Fri. night. Wed. are full days....curves in the morning, a meeting, school, martial arts, 4H crafts, breakfast, lunch and dinner, a container arrived and was unpacked, Bible study, college class for Larry, Rebecca, and Daniel. At least I go to bed feeling like a lot was accomplished on days like today. There is always the promise that tomorrow won't be so busy....at least until we wake up tomorrow. It is important to be sure that when out to combine all trips due to the gas prices. How are they out in your neck of the woods? Maybe we should go back to horse and buggy days....bet the Amish are not worried about the gas prices. This weekend is Ladies retreat. I am looking forward to spending some time with friends and making some new friends. Off to never never land.

Six....

2005-10-02T22:29:00.000-07:00

The little one on the lower diving board is Andrew this summer. He is just learning to swim and has no fear of water. The kid on the high dive is Robert his older brother...it seems a lack of fear or sense runs deep within the family. A sense of adventure and love of danger is also strong.
Andrew turned six this last week. He made the statement "Now that I am six I am old enough to know how to behave and obey" We shall see....... So far, his desire far out ways his ability. We watched Apple Dumpling Gang for his birthday movie. This next week we celebrate Larry's B'day. (Just a reminder to any older kids who are reading this!)
The MSB office where David (my eldest) will be working now has a drop ceiling with lights and carpet comes Tues. When David and company come??? So I have now made Home Depot my home away from home. I even rented their truck to bring home drywall recently.
I also made a purchase of some red tailed black sharks for the tank. I didn't realize they are jumpers so was startled when the splashing started. Lucky, the tank is covered so they shouldn't escape. I also bought some neon fish to go in the tank with two new plants.
Well, with all this water around...I need to go get in my water bed. I keep trying to catch up on beauty sleep...but so far it is still a dream to look forward to.

Fair is a variable....

2005-09-18T08:11:00.000-07:00

This week is Fair week. We (Mom and 4 youngest) also took off two days to accompany Dad to a show in Alameda on board the USS Hornet. It is a massive Essex aircraft carrier. Went up and down massive amounts of small ladders and through small doors. Then off to the hotel to swim. Only problem was... no sun, freezing cold, outside pool. The kids swam till they shook from the cold then we went inside. Dad came home, we went to dinner at Applebees after running around a mall for a while. Then Dad picked up a key lime pie at Trader Joes and we went back to the hotel and watched national Geography program on Jaguars while eating desert. The next day found us at the Oakland Zoo. They are remodeling and making the zoo look lots, lots nicer. The kids favorite exhibit was the meerkats. They look so cute and curious but have very sharp claws and teeth. The fruit bat exhibit was awesome too. They are huge bats that were eating and walking around, stretching their huge wings out.... really cool to see close up. Then it was back home and lots of Fair time on the weekend. We worked in the poultry barn *Roger and Raquel both got 1st places on their chickens. Today is Clover Deli work time. Next week is cleanup and catch up on school time.

2005-09-04T21:49:00.000-07:00

Time flies when you are busy..... which seems to be the case around here. Kids are off to college, two kids and hubby started college classes here, school for everyone else, home bible study should begin soon, Awana's, swimming practice, and fair is in one week as well. Now the list starts of things forgotten at home and all the things I need to send the kids in their first box...reg. for car with sticker, mail, pills, recipe box, ..... and the list goes on. It has been an interesting summer.....God has had his hand in all of it....and once again he has proven to be faithful, kind, and loving. Always meeting the needs as they arrive - not before nor after letting one drown in the problems. So as I go and rest my head on my pillow, I give thanks to the one who has kept me, loved me, and most of all held me close to him through these last months. It is also great to know that he has my future months in his hands also.

SUCCESS ALL AROUND

2005-08-27T15:48:00.000-07:00

Two kids are off to Texas and have arrived at their Grandmothers, so far safe and sound on their way to school. I have sold most of Rachel's old school books on amazon.com with very little effort. It is nice to see some stuff go out of the house...not just coming in by the wheelbarrow full.
Julie's surgery was a success. We arrived at Stanford at exactly 8 am. Where put in a room near someone taking cancer treatments ( they were very noisily loosing the contents of their stomach) Larry did not join them or pass out....close but kept his cool. Then taken to a bed several doors down the procedure was explained again and an IV was started....Larry and I left during this time. We went out to breakfast at the hospital cafe...does this count as a date? Then it was wait, wait, wait time. During this wait time Larry left for La Honda. Around 12:00 they took her up to the surgery holding area. After meeting the assisting doc, signing consent papers, hearing the procedure explained again, then meeting the real doctor we waited till 1:30 when they took her in. At this point I went to lunch and then to the waiting room. One, two, three and four hours passed before I got the call that she had made it out and I could come right back...no waiting which was nice.
The doctor came in all smiles, told me he felt that the operation was successful...they located the area of the problem and killed that area of the heart. Tried to stimulate the SVT to come back and it didn't so he feels good about the outcome. Julie says on the other hand, they lied..I felt lots of ugly stuff going on inside and lots of pain..I'm not ever going to do that again! She had gotten sick and threw up from the medications and just generally said she would rather be home in bed reading a good book. Shortly they transferred her to her new room and after some more meds...she rested. At 8:30 they brought her dinner....chicken, rice, and carrots, with other unmentionable sides. She did eat all the chicken before the nausea hit. They tried to get her up at 10 but her right leg wounds (3) broke open and after much pain, blood, and direct pressure..the doctor said to stay flat till morning. But now because of this complication it was checking the BP and vitals every hour on the hour...and the wounds. They made entry wound on both the left and right side groin area.....OUCH. After 1 1/2 hours the main bleeding stopped and then by 3 more it had stopped all together.
So after a restless or almost sleepless night for me, it is time to rise and shine 6 am vitals to start the day. The doctor arrived this morning....he came in 3 different times. (on a Sat.!?!?) They did not like Julies blood pressure, she needed more fluids, she needed to void more fluids, she needed to get out of bed and walk, so the Sat. chore list began. After a long Sat. morning she was given permission to come HOME!!!! Dad had come in and was more than willing to whisk us away with rapid speed and make Julie's wish of being home fulfilled. So we are now home, she is in her bed watching a movie, and I of course, are telling you all about it.
I am planning on going to bed early tonight. Poor Chudley (our dog) doesn't understand why she cant sit in Julie's lap....hope we can teach her to stay down. So now you know how everything went.

THE DAY

2005-08-26T02:28:00.000-07:00

It is that time. We leave in a few hours for Stanford. Much has been accomplished. Rachel and Jonathan are on the road to Texas for another year of school. The apartment they occupied during the summer is empty and clean. Julie is mostly packed for school as well and has moved inside the house for the last few remaining days of summer break. Rebecca has turned 18 with little to no mishaps. I think she will be surprised to see her presents and flowers today as well.
Larry has started the two new rooms in the back...all which stemmed from a leaky roof that needed to be replaced. But as of last night the new roof was on and tar papered. He will go with us today and then off to MSB where David works to work on some electronic projects there. Then he will give Julie and I a ride home and back to the construction on Sun.
Daniel is a Soph. for this semester quickly moving to a Junior in Jan. Rebecca officially will graduate end of Dec. or as soon as some of her work is done....which ever is soonest. Sadly, Liz is still out in the great beyond.
When we get home, we need to move some furniture and rearrange the quest room...tidy up the nursery (CHORES!), lots of laundry.....and plan to take Julie to school and then the FAIR.....
What a wonderful, fun filled life we Gullmans lead. Oh yes, there will be some sleep involved in this plan as well.

Timing is everything

2005-08-18T20:56:00.000-07:00

Dates are now set. Julies heart ablation is Aug. 26th. That is Rebecca's 18th birthday so we will celebrate it early - this Sun. instead. Then pack up two college kids and send them off Thurs.. morning early...or so the plan goes. Julie must also be packed and ready for college since she wont feel like it after her surgery. They estimate an overnight stay and then home and take it real easy for 3 days then just mild stuff for 2 weeks...sure she is off to college (How mild do you think she will be?) This reminds me of when the doctor says....Go home and get some rest - to a mother of 10...sure thing, no problem. There are the last min. doctor appointments for Rachel, last days of work for many, oh and school has started for the two in HS, misc.. packing and cleaning, a special birthday, also Rachel just discovered her financial aid package has disappeared, just a few things to do in this next week. So after I get done eating the next package of bon bons....putting my feet up....taking an hour long bubble bath....getting my nails done....I might find time to do some of those annoying task. At least Dad is happy, eating his bowl of ice cream, laying in his squishy water bed, reading a historical book..... I really am happy, just a bit busy, with many people needing my time and energy. This was not the time to get a kidney infection....but my timing has never been that great. So this woman needs to go to bed, sleep twice as fast, wake up refreshed and energetic, try to be organized and get lots accomplished.....This is beginning to sound like one of those superhuman comic books. Well, at least I may get a laugh or two....

Where has all the time gone?

2005-08-13T22:35:00.000-07:00

Hard to believe how fast time flies. Where it goes no one seems to know. We have a special visitor this month, Jared Wheeler. He is a good sport, seems to be hanging in there and even able to enjoy some of the great adventures that we have taken him on. We have been at home, taken him on curvey mountain roads, through fog and sun, for hikes, rivers, lakes, sleeping under the stars, eating food with chopsticks, seafood adventures, sailing the ocean blue, (he did get to see all kinds of animal life such as whales, jelly fish, star fish, sea lions, an otter......rachel's little siblings), church, Long's drugs, art galleries, beaches, more sun. He is literally red from all the excitement.?.? Only two mores days before he leaves....Wonder what else we can add to the list? Rest, relaxation, reading, well at least he now knows just how crazy this family can be.
Wed. Julie and I go to Stanford to visit the heart doctor there and arrange for her ablation procedure. Her health has really been deteriorating over the last week or so...tired, headaches, mood swings, shortness of breath are just some of the main symptoms. The doctor here says it is due to the medication and uncontrolled blood pressure and rhythms. Hope it can get fixed fast. Then maybe she can get off the medication.
Robert has swimmers ear so ear drops for him. Anna Raquel has an eye doctors appointment Mon. and still needs to get the growth removed from her eye. Roger is off to Mt. Hermon for his first week of camp, away from all the siblings and family. So just a few things are ahead. We also need to get ready to send Rachel and Jon to Texas, and Julie (we hope) to Azusa for another year of school.

2005-07-15T21:35:00.000-07:00

Doctors - doctors - and more doctors. Today was the Gullman day at the clinic. Anna Raquel started it out at 9:15 at the eye dr. We are now refered to a specialist to remove the growth on the lower left eyelid some time in the next two to three weeks.
Next was MoM and my sensor program says everything is OK so why is my AC1 so high? Why so much swelling? No answers.....
Then Julie to the heart specialist....she need a heart operation to cut the extra electrical stimulation. She is not excited about this since she remains awake and it is basically like a heart cath..but they sever places that stimulate her heart to beat....leaving of course only one. Has to done by some real specialist up in Stanford? Scheduled a stress echo cardiogram for Thurs. am. Hope it doesn't set it off again. Till then she has to take some pills and carry a copy of her EKG with a heart rate of 198/min. in her purse till it happens again or she gets it fixed.
Then we met sister Rebecca in urgent care. She had an earache last night....you got it - swimmers ear. So drops for her and to keep her from the water a few days....Lucky it is Fri. and she already swam today. She also doesn't teach on Fri. or swim Sat. or Sun. We will have to look at Mon. when it rolls around... So Advil for pain and drops to clear up the infection.....And a lot of cheese to go with her whine...???
Then we went to the Mall to exchange some shoes and ended up buying some more and socks.....now my pocket book needs a doctor from the hole I put in it today. Hard to believe that Anna Raquel (9) is wearing a size 8 shoe (ladies that is) which is larger than my shoe... Rebecca is in a 10 1/2 and so they grow.
Then home, the new chicken coop is built and the chickens moved into. The driveway is cleaned up from building the coop. It is made of 1 inch pvc pipe and chicken wire... a hoop house. Now it is time for bed. I will have to tell you about Annie Get your Gun...later....IT WAS FANTASTIC.

Hearts

2005-07-08T08:42:00.000-07:00

Hearts.....it is amazing how important one little organ is that is only the size of your hand or so. It is also amazing how many different ways it can NOT WORK right. It doesn't just have an on and off switch. Just spent the other night in the ER with Julie (twin,19, Asuza Pacific art major). Her heart desided to work overtime...When we arrived her heart rate was 284 beats per min. After taking blood, placing all the tabs for the monitors, and getting a fast IV started...they pumped her with some medicine to help her heart slow down. It worked pretty fast and got it down to 94 - 117. So then they gave her pills to take to slow it down some more. Now we wait a week to see the heart specialist to see why it does what it does. Since she was little she has had this type of problem... mostly after exercise but this time while laying and watching a movie. Dad said she was just so excited to get up tomorrow and paint with him. When she was little she used to throw up or pass out after a "spell." We were also never able to record with a dr. what was happening till Wed. night. So after living with this thing for 19 years they finally believe her and me. It was lucky that her two days off are Thurs. and Fri. so she has some time to rest from the ordeal. Now if only I can catch up on missed sleep and worry..... such is the life of MoM.

4th

2005-07-05T19:39:00.000-07:00

The fourth has come and gone. Fireworks all blown, food all eaten, parade started the day...... Just another traditional fourth for our family. Aptos is famous for being the shortest parade route.....not the shortest parade. Two hours of cars, dogs, kids, dancers, floats, kids, dogs, political agendas, police cars, goats, horses, firetrucks, bucketheads, even a blue car & accordian player, bands, some music, scouts, .... almost everyone in town was either at the parade or in it. That is except some party pooping males from the Gullman household. Some of us went early and set up the chairs, reserving the spot, then off to Safeway for breakfast and a few other 4th supplies. Daniel and Roger rode their bikes later. God is good, on the way a car turned a corner right into Roger. His front wheel popped off and the bike scratch the ladies car, then he proceeded to roll onto her hood and off it when she stopped. God is good, nothing was broken (except the bike which Daniel fixed) and very good because I wasn't there to see it. Such things have the ability to scare the hebeegeebees out of me. Got home after the parade and had a great Chinese chicken salad, and then it was out to play with our company. Michael brought PVC pipe, candle wax, some misc. parts and made a rocket... which worked! For dinner we had chicken, steak, rice and corn on the cob. We shot the rocket off (I got to push the ignition button) and then after it burnt out literally....we had ice cream with sprinkles and whup cream...(that is how the kids pronouce it). Then to a wonderful round of fireworks, sparklers, fountains, cactus, fire crackers, chasers, spinners, bottle rockets, ....... a beautiful shower of color and noise. Then it was off to bed. (Clean up is always easier in the morning when you can see the mess!)
Today the 5th we started swimming lessons for Andrew, Robert and Anna Raquel. All heads got wet and Anna Raquel even jumped off the high dive. Rachel went to chemistry 2, Rebecca did swim practice, work, school, teaching swimming, and home to eat dinner and take care of the animals, Daniel and Jonathan worked on their essay for American History (college), Julie went off to work at Long's Drug, Roger did school and helped clean up, and of course Dad was just "BUSY". Me on the other hand sat all day and read books, ate ice cream, took naps, painted my nails, took a leasurly bubble bath, had my hair done......if you believe that then I have a bridge for sale.
So now it is time to round up children both small and older to get ready for bed. So once again the day is done and I am done in.....night!

Appointments??

2005-06-29T14:22:00.000-07:00

Appointments. How do appointments make you feel? Important that someone wants to see you, needy because you need to see someone, busy becacuse there is nothing better to do, frustrated because there is waiting almost always with appointments, angry when they get cancelled at the last minute?? Well, we shall be able to tell better tomorrow. We only have 7 people with dentist and doctors appointments tomorrow. It is only Wed. and we have already lived through 3 so far....this week. When you have to be somewhere to pick someone up at a specific time is that an appoinments as well, or is it just another chore/event? Life is an appointment with time, people, places, and things..... such deep thoughts??

Happenings

2005-06-20T20:42:00.000-07:00

Kids, school, college, schedules, doctors appointments, work, hair cuts, swim practices, swim lessons, eating meals, cleaning house, dentist visits (with fillings), raising ducks & chickens & a dog & cats & birds, travels to Denver, homeworks due, computer time, movies, cars (or lack thereof), grocery shopping, painting (oils on canvas), framing of paintings, dad's day, ice cream, picking berries, making pies, cards, presents and wrapping of presents, lot of more meals and the clean up of meals, watering the plants, taking care of the garden, reading some books, oh and the occasional nap and sleep...... these are a few of my favorite things...and then I go mad!!!
Not really but these are a few of the things that occupy my waking and sleeping moments. At least I can never complain that life is boring!!! Maybe overwhelming....but certainly not boring.
Tomorrow is the jam making day.... so sweet. Boysenberry jam....and sryup....yummy. Only problem is lots of things turn purple....what's a little sacrifice for such yummy results.
Well, I am going to take my weary, but greatly fullfilled bag of bones to bed. I have lots of things crossed off my list of things to do....makes one proud or did I mean tired.......
Nighty, night......sleepy tight

Night Night

2005-06-18T22:36:00.000-07:00

I know I should post
But I feel like milk toast
So tired am I
I think I might die
A poet I'm not
My rhyms are not hot
So it's now off to bed
For this sleepy head
Night

Creative kids, creative memories

2005-06-13T04:18:00.000-07:00

Weekend adventures or should I say weekend with children? Saturday the children (three youngest ones) attended a birthday party at the beach with Julie and their MoM. We rush home to shower before going to church. To save time and water I decided that the two boys should quickly shower together in the back bathroom. Rachel meanders in and I ask her to check on the boys, rinse them quickly, and get them out of the shower so they will dress. She comes and ask if the boys had been given a recent haircut, and not been brushed off. No, I replied upon which she went back to rinse hair off the boys from whom knows where. She returns to show me globs of hair from the boys and ask, "Could the boys be sick? Their hair is coming out in blobs. Robert has told her that they are scrubbing their hair so hard it is falling out. I begin to worry for indeed her hands are covered in small chunks of hair. I say we will check on it later just help the boys get dressed. Time is running out to get to church on time.
While drying Robert starts to complain of how his thumb and fingers have small scratches on them. We think how could this be? Could something have happened from the beach? Suddenly, I think small scratches on fingers and hand, a funny scratch down the front of his nose, patches of hair coming out, two small boys showering together, in the shower now shared by their college brother who carelessly (from a lack of previous need to) leaves such things around as a razor. Upon which I run to the bathroom and look at the boys myself. They have honored their brother by mimicing him. They took turns using his razor and shaving. I ask two innocent looking boys if they have been playing with their brothers razor. They reply no, they were just shaving like Jonathan does. Hey MoM, did you know that that thing cuts hair. Upon closer examination....Andrew (5) has removed 1/2 of his left eyebrow and at least three large sections of hair. Robert (8) has two or three smaller sections of hair that are shorter and thin, and a small scrap down the ridge of his nose. Try as I might, I can not controll the laughter, nor the laughter of all the college siblings to preform some kind of discipline. Robert shaved his nose cause he wanted to see what it looked like he exclaims as he crosses his eyes looking down the nose. They were nice and even took turns, Robert announces. Here is the very funny part. Dad has just announced that tomorrow we will be taking family pictures. Something always happens when he says that. Oh well, another memory to add to my memory album. Just when I thought nothing new could be pulled by kids or at least my kids.
By the way, Jonathan and his razor have moved out to the college kids apartment on Sun. It finally became vacant. Thank heavens!

Moving day, schools over, and the powers out (and back)

2005-06-07T21:12:00.000-07:00

Well, the announcement was made today that it is only 5 more days till the college kids get their apartment back. Not sure who is the most excited...??? On the property here we have an apartment that was rented out to other students (local) and the money goes to help pay 3 kids college bills. But it sort of cramps the style when they move home and have to camp in on top or directly next to us till it empties. As it stands right now I have 4 computers on my new desk which is only designed for two. Moving Day is coming!
Today was the offical last meeting of the school year with the charter school teacher. We have now planned out Daniel and Rebecca's lives for the next few years. Then it was off to Foster Freeze to celebrate the many accomplishments of the year. Ice cream is always a great motivator.
Home to fill our 4H camp forms...make dinner....clean up...read some Sugar Creek Gang and off to bed. Last night was interrupted by a long and dark power outage. A very large tree blew over and covered our road taking out the phone and electric lines from about 3:30 pm- 4:30 am. So lots of candle light - we all look better - and early to bed. Can't figure out why everyone was so tired today. At least the college kids got an extension on their online homework since computers and all internet was not functioning. Some good came from it. As well as the family sat around and painted.... Larry finished an awesome painting of a great CA coastal scene.
Need to go and make sure my water bed hasn't sprung a leak. Besides, Larry is eating ice cream and reading a book...and it is my swore duty to interrupt such peacefull activites with my nonsencical chatter. So fairwell, and goodnight

Out with May and In with June

2005-05-31T18:15:00.000-07:00

Another month has passed. Most of the tribe have made it home safely. The volumn level has increased along with the food bill. It is amazing how children that ate almost anything I made, once they left home have developed the habit of "I don't eat that any more." It is hard on them to adjust to the non-cafeteria style of home cooking. Only one entree, only one choice. Take it or leave it. As their hunger increases so will their variety of what they will consume. At least I am not left with many leftovers any more. One childs chore of putting away the extra has almost ceased to exsist.
In our 4H group they made a craft of a jar to place on the table filled with questions to help you communicate with your family. Remove one question at a time. ask it and it will help
to stimulate conversation. I was wondering if there is a jar out there to help ensure that only one person talks at a time and in a volumn that allows others to remain in the room. Conversation is something our family never seems to have problems with.
Our chickens and ducks are growing fine and smelling something awful. Can't wait to move them to their permanent home. We have been blessed with some roosters.....anyone know of a good or even not so good a home for them???? Chicken and dumplings sounds good.
Our summer is full of online classes, summer school, 4H camp, swim lessons, coaching a swim team, travel to Denver, raising a few animals, special dinner and concert with Kings brass, competeing for the computer, working lots of hours....lots of kids in all directions, phone calls from friends, church, a movie or two, home repairs of a roof or two....just to name a few things ahead for us. So how are you relaxing this summer?
Now I must go and make some dinner for the hungry. We shall have roast beef sandwiches with french onion soup. Now I am getting hungry. Check in with you later.

Boys??

2005-05-23T23:18:00.000-07:00

We have arrived home after a short weekend at the beach. Yes, just two exits away from our home we went camping at the local SeaCliff Beach. While putting things away from our trip so far from home, Andrew yells across the parking lot "Are bees nice Mom?" To which I reply "Not really, they sting. Why?" "Cause I have one on a leaf I am carrying." says Andrew. I simply tell him to put it down and stop messing with it. Just minutes later comes the following conversation. Mom do bees swim? No, Why? Cause my bee is trying to do the breast stoke like Rebecca. I march over to see this great feat and look at a bee in the process of drowing, kicking frantically. No Andrew, the bee is not swimming it is drowning. So he proceeds to tell his slightly older brother. Robert, bees are not nice so you need to get it out of the water. Upon which I pronouce it dead and tell them both to leave it alone and get back to the work of helping us get cleaned up. Reluctantly they comply.

2005-05-02T19:00:00.000-07:00

Another month has gone....and only a few more weeks till summer. Kids arrive home from college this weekend...can't believe this year is over for them. Hope they learned lots and remember some of it. Now to get ready to pay for next year.
We are currently enduring the saga of the ducks. Bought 6, 4 died off some what slowly and messily, replaced with 4 small ducks.....now we wait. Chickens are everywhere. We have around 30 or so chicks. White leghorns and 3 ones of breed unkown arrived yesterday... free to 4Her's. The other 15 I bought several weeks ago and they are all growing and getting feathers. Will have Jon. design and build a coop in the fenced in 7 acers up top. Can't let Larry do it, he will build them a house big enough for the family to live in. Rachel should be in her glory this summer reliving her love for chickens. (I hope)
Dad is in parts unkown. Every one that knows him can vouch that he has timing problems. They are arriving in Vietnam, along with 30,000 other people to celebrate 30 years since they won the war against the US. Way to go..!! Then he, David, and Joe are off to Cambodia. 95% of the people there cook with wood. 15% of the houses have electricity and indoor plumbing. The 4 most deadly snakes in the world live there. A large part of the population are amputees due to the land mines....... so God has his hands full during this next two weeks or so protecting the crew while they are away.
Andrew has taught himself the alphabet and how to write the numbers to 10. No more excuses for this MoM....school is now in session. Actually, right now sleep is a required subject. Off to put kids to bed.

2005-04-29T06:07:00.000-07:00

So much excitment at our house. Dad and David are in China, Vietnam, and Cambodia for several weeks, thus allowing me full run of the house and schedule. So I went to a school close out sale and bought an entire computer center desk that wraps around two corners (for $30) which is something this MoM has been wanting for several years. Thanks to Daniel (now 15) the desk were reassymbled and put in their proper places. Now the two computers are off a cheesy folding table and in proper postion on their new desk. Also, thanks to Daniel who did all the wiring and rehook up of the machines. Now that rearranging has begun, the rest of the house was fair game. Living room has changed, along with the dining room section...what next???
Oh I also got a computer table for free for the apartment (college kids).
Well, sleeping is not going as well as I would like. There is the 3 am wake up and then this morning the 5 am wake up to help Rebecca find the keys in her purse to go to swimming. I wonder about her...maybe the cold morning air has damaged her capacity to think, but it seems to have hardened her desire to swim....and improve. Guess it a good trade off. So if I now run back to bed, I can catch a few more min.......night/morning night???

Summer plans

2005-04-13T21:54:00.000-07:00

Summer plans ...summer scams....
Vacations...where MoM does more work than at home?
Kids don't do school.....school of hard knocks in session?
It doesn't rain in CA....talk to the clouds, will ya!
A time of rest....it takes more time to plan the garden and day to day activities than to do a semester of school
A day at the park.....kids will be kids especially at the park!
Poison oak, nature hike, building forts in the woods, doctors visits for broken or almost broken limbs, bike rides, scuffed knees, beach trips, sunburns, swimming lessons, see I didn't even get my head wet, kids home from college, huge food bills, MoM I really need this, money gone, life goes on.......
Yeah summer is here!!!!

2005-03-30T21:28:00.000-08:00

March is coming to a close. Spring breaks are almost over. For the last three weeks someone from the family is on spring break. LETU first, Azusa Pacific next, and last but not least Cabrillo College....so many breaks. I should be all rested up, but it doesn't seem to work that way.
Good news so far from the medical world....MoM is better. Most of the latest blood test are coming back in the normal range.....(this may be a first for I am anything but normal) and the pictures are looking good too. A few more apointments to hear how great I am doing...and then April can have some shower and May can bring in flowers. This will all help my garden grow without me doing the work or watering.
Had to turn the heat back on today...woke up to ice on the car windows....what does the weather think it is doing...this is CA afterall. Some rain, some sun, wind, really damp cold....but then summer will be here soon and we shall all be wishing for some rain, wind, and really cool days. We sure are a finicky people....
Need to close and get some sleep. Hope you are all smiling, studying hard, feeling well, and anxious to get home.

Update

2005-03-14T21:56:00.000-08:00

Alas, an update. Saw the heart specialist today. Looks like I was having watering problems. The kind where your body thinks that there will be no more water so it starts hording it. Seems like due to some medications, I retained water, every where including my lungs, so the difficulty breathing was due to that fact(not asthma). My heart was being required to work harder than it wanted to go sooo......it just started complaining and pressure built up when it took the lazy way out... but alas, due to prayer and now some wonderful lasix the water ways are receeding and I am on the road to full recovery. I was feeling a lot better, with more energy, but the medical profession wanted the x-rays to look better with less fluid, so they prescribe yet another pill. Some times I don't know what the pharmacy would do with out me...go broke!
I am due for a echo cardiogram in two weeks.....to see if any further damage has taken place. And of course, the diabetic doctor is now all in a tizzy....she wants to see me as well. Seems the kidneys are also complaining. We shall see...so just a few appointments and test ahead. Wonder how my mid terms will turn out??? My kids all seem to be passing their test so maybe I can too!?!?!
Well, my beauty and energy sleep is required; so it is off to nigh nigh land for this old lady. Will let you know how things turn out. I miss my kids who couldn't come home this week. But I hear they are having fun without me.... FEEL GUILTY

March where??

2005-03-09T17:13:00.000-08:00

Well March is just marching along. Swim meets, birthdays, bible studies, awanas, school, meeting with teachers, life....it doesn't wait till I catch up. March did not have a good start for me...I was so sick and my heart was acting up so bad. I am not sure of the cause but after living on nitro...for several days, I decided it was time to call the doctor. Wed. night our bible study group came and at the end when we share prayer request, Bonnie just looked at me and asked what was wrong...I shared....the whole group got up and layed hands on me and prayed. Now, to be honest this is not something I am comfortable with, but I was so sick I didn't care. I have always been able to believe that prayer is great and good for others but........ No great miracle happened right away, went to bed, couldn't sleep and God told me Trust Me. So I say in my mind, alright I am so tired, if this is real, I really need to sleep. I remember nothing till the next am. Now for most of you, you need to understand it has been months since I have slept through the night. I awoke with no pain, discomfort, and tons of energy. What is neat is that I have been pain free and with tons of energy since then. I have also slept through the night since then. God does answer prayers.....even for me. For the last month I have had to nap twice a day to get through the day....now I can keep a better eye on my charges....sorry guys.
So now we are anticipating spring break.....Julie gets to come home for Easter....My other two will have to find someone else to play Easter bunny. Tomorrow is Daniels birthday and for a present he gets to start his Drivers Ed class......scary!! Need to go and put in the chicken enchiladas for dinner...make some rice....and a veggie. So March can just march on...someday I will catch up....till then who cares?

Feb. Already??

2005-02-12T13:52:00.000-08:00

Time for an update. It seems that I have asked my girls to update their blogs without showing them how this is done. So being rightly reprimanded, I blog. Jan. is now completely gone and Feb. is half way gone as well. Grandmom Strube (my Mom) came out for a long visit...all went well...she did not get sick...die of food poisoning....or fall or in any other way damage herself. We enjoyed seeing her and she enjoyed seeing where we live and all the things we do.
In Jan. the dog was let out by some stranger and set free while we were in church....thus, she was found the next day and taken to the puppy jail (pound) where upon she was examined and found to be with microchip. After the puppy patrol made this discovery, they called the wayward owner who rejoiced gladly and went and bailed her out of puppy prison. To the tune of $50. plus it was made clear to her current owner that she now has a record. Such shame has been brought into our family....hide it in the closet.
We have also survived another two....I mean two....swim meets. Rebecca showed off the family skill and coordination swimmingly. From the last swim meet she only brought home 4 blue ribbons and an new B time....and that was after only participating for one day.
Feb. is the month of love. With valentines and our anniversary....what is not to celebrate. Oh and yes, we did take out some time to have David...on the 20th. So here we are years later and still hanging around each other... some call it commitment....and I would have to agree. Even through rough, dry, slow, times as well as fast, romantic, and adventurous times God has kept us together.....as only he can. So, if your young and feeling romantic...words of wisdom from the old "Make sure God is in the middle of your relationship...he is the glue and the icing on the cake"
Feb. must also be the "smart club" month. Larry, Rebecca and Daniel have enrolled at the local community college to take a C++ programming class. I am sure they would like to get a C++ in the class if not better. All seems to be going well, homework done, bike riding to and from class, even an occasional laugh here and there. Daniel and Rebecca also enrolled at the local red cross and took and passed their CPR and first aid class. Now when I fall over from a heart attack they should know what to do...
Need to close this now as I need a shower, to check on kids, and to get ready for church tonight. It is a presentation from Jews for Jesus. As life continues, and days go bye, I pray that you will be drawn by Gods love and power, to a true understanding of who he is, and thereby worship him with all your heart, your soul, and mind.
As my daughters say Chao

Another year has passed

2005-01-21T19:56:00.000-08:00

Another year has passed. Many things have happened this year to prove that God is faithful and merciful to me. Guess the first one is that I am still alive and feeling pretty good to boot. The second being that my family is all doing well and handling lifes challenges as they arise. Third is that my silly little dog is still with us even after visiting doggie jail for running away....with the help of some unknown person who let her out of my car.
Birthday started off with creamed chipped beef over biscuits...followed by playing Parchesse...followed by lunch, pumpkin upside down cake, and presents. Then out to the backyard to trim trees, dead bamboo, move a tree. Next we headed to the bowling alley, and then home to go out to dinner(David was here when we got home). We ate at a really nice Italian restaurant, but some of the food was iffy. But they sang Happy Birthday to me in Italian and gave me a tierra to wear and free champane geletto (Italian ice) so it was well worth it. After that it was home and to bed...remember I am getting older.
So another year has started....time to discover more about life, try some new things, and most of all just wake up and get out of bed and see what each new day brings.

Another child is officially an adult

2005-01-18T07:21:00.000-08:00

Another child of mine has reached the ripe old age of 21. I am sure her face is smiling today. She and I just love b'days. Any reason to party and feel special is wonderful. So at least I know where and what I was doing 21 years ago today. I was in IN and Larry took me to the Dr. who said that a storm was coming and did I want to have this child in a hospital or at home. I who was not prepared for a home birth at all, said that today would be fine...no need to wait two days for my birthday for this present. We drove across the street to the hospital, checked in, and in 45 min. Rachel arrived. Everyone was surprised how fast she came...I think even her. She ruined the doctors shoes and pants since he didn't have time to put on a gown and shoe covers before he had to catch her. She was no little thing over 9 pounds, but not as big as her brother who was over 10 pounds. As I was giving birth, a blizzard arrived and Larry just made it home. Pipes froze and so much snow we didn't see Dad for another 3 days till he could get out and come get us. Had we waited she would of been born at home, since most of the town had shut down for days due to weather. When her Dad came back and brought brother David to see her we had to bribe him to sit next to her for pictures with food. He wanted nothing to do with her. But alas, they did grow up together and I am sure felt about the same with each future sibling arriving. So now you know where and what I was doing 21 years ago today.
Last year I was in Texas, visiting with my father. He died on the 20th just two days later. I am glad I spent last year in Texas seeing Rachel and my Dad. This year we shall see.....

Jan. 9th doom

2005-01-09T16:06:00.000-08:00

Well we will try this one more time. The new year has started out with a bang, the big bad flu, cold bang. It seems to have been able to take down the whole Gullman family with one weekend spent together in close quarters in the camper. Of course, it is the great Gullman luck that it is the weekend that we are sending college kids off so they can infect their campuses and friends. BEWARE. Well I warned you...Most of the trip was great..Death Valley (rain and snow) ask someone about the mud! Off to see a ghost town, then on to Las Vegas. We had a great KOA campground there and David had driven the van to town so we had transportation to be able to go sightseeing while Dad worked the CES show. We went to a chocolate factory...and then to WalMart and Smart and Final, to see the pyramid bldg....Exchalibur....and some other Vegas sights on the strip. We of course, had snow falling down, followed by rain. Then off to APU to drop Julie....had to stop for two new tires....more rain and down pours. Then Larry and I went to eat with Dr. Lo (authentic Chinese restaurant). We had many dishes, chicken feet and fish stomach soup were just two of them. Tofu custard for desert...Yuck! Basically I was told it was best not to ask what I was eating...How true. Then off to take Rachel and Jonathan to San Jose to catch a flight to TX to start school. Hopefully you kids will get well soon!!!
Now we are all home sick in bed. Resting and trying to get well since Grandmom comes for a visit tomorrow night. And of course there is just more liquid sunshine pouring down on us. Where does it all come from and when will it stop??? The age old question.....

2005-01-01T13:43:00.000-08:00

Larry and Lisa Gullman