Hello again....

I know it has been a long while since updating this, I really figured since she was doing so well that I would close it.

But, like I said her heart is her family so I think I will start updating again about her and her 'heart'.

Moms cousin Barbara Clark passed on Saturday and she and mom were very close. The funeral is today and her and Johnny are going to sing - that is the plan as of now. I can tell she is very sad about it, but Barbara wasn't in the best of health either so God had a plan.

The holidays are here, moms house is still not ready so I am having the dinner here. Like my house is ready? haha. But help is on the way, Lisa is coming to help me this week and as much as I hate asking for help - I really need it. Scott and I have worked hard to get it really decorated to hopefully put a smile on moms face. BRAD really has worked the hardest. That kid is my angel here on earth. I better stop there or I will get all sappy, but I can't...he has came almost daily to check on me and to do little and sometimes big things. He was always moms heart as well, he lived with them at times and he is just amazing. Out of any child or grandchild he is the first that will be there for mom and dad, that is just how he is. People say he is slow or not bright, but God knew what he was doing. Brad might not be book smart, but he is heart smart, and loves with all he has. I wish he was mine, and Scott tells me he is in so many ways. Scott adores him as well - how could you help it!?!

I know mom is preparing Christmas cards to mail out....so if she has an address please expect one.

I will post holiday pictures on the picture page, dinner will hopefully be a success and lots of smiles to remember. I am making ornaments for all that attend and next year we are all doing an ornament exchange thing. Next year will be at moms, and Lord willing it will be wonderful.

Thank you for all the prayers and for always making my sweet mamma smile!

Last post!

Mom is doing so much better, today she went home. I was so sad to see her go, but will enjoy some quiet time at home with Scott. Also, I know she will love being home too. I went out there twice today and her and dad were curled up in their bedroom. The upstairs looks better, I hope mom is happy up there.

I decided to just lock this blog...she is doing great and I don't know how much I will be able to post here and my own personal blog. You all have my email and if something ever happens, I will open this back up so we can keep everyone updated.

Thank you all for your prayers and all that have came and done for her and me. Now that her heart is mending, I hope the heart of her family will mend as well...one can hope and pray right?

God bless you all, we will keep in touch! Looking forward to the July get together, you all should be getting invites over the next couple days...mailed them and hand delivered some.

All my love,

Hope

P.S. I will be keeping the picture site, and updating that as often as I can!

Photos..

I have added some more photos to the Pictures site...

Update!

Mom is doing great! She is using her oxygen very little and is up doing more and more every day. She cooked her first meal yesterday...of course - pinto beans, fried taters and onions and some friend cornbread! Nothing too big, but boy oh boy was it delish. I haven't been able to cook or anything for the last few days so I am sure she was tired of take out and left overs.

I think they will also be going home at some point this week, :( SUPER SAD FACE! I will miss them so much. I know we will see each other still, but I loved having them down the hall. *SIGH* I do know she will be happier in her own place, just gonna miss them like mad.

Gladys is home too by the way, doing better last time I talked to her.

July 7th is coming soon, started handing out the invites and as soon as I get some 2 cent stamps will put the rest in the mail.

Love you all!!

Hope

P.S. Mom got a surprise visit from Parker, Korey and Little John last night...was so great to see them all, I have missed them so much. You know how Little John is every one's lil sweetie! Korey has grown so much so had Parker. I hope to get them both for a few days soon...will be fun!

Well, another heart to pray for..

Gladys went into the hospital at 2 am on Thursday night. She had been having pain for 3 days and when she go there they had to do an emergency appendectomy. Her appendix had ruptured. After further testing, they found she had had a light heart attack. She is in ICU, but when I saw her today she was looking great and said she was feeling ok. Ed was so worried, Allan and Timmy were there too. It was nice to get to spend time with them, though unfortunate circumstances. So please pray for Aunt Gladys and Uncle Ed.

Mom is doing good still, she has a bug but is getting over it.

Good Night....

Love,
Hope

Doctor Visit today

Mom went to see Dr. Hennington to follow up from her recent hospital visit. She does have a sore throat, but he feels that he shouldn't give her more antibiotics at this time. She has had so many lately. He said everything is looking great, her blood came back fine as well. He said she should start doing more a little at a time. Ohh and he has turned her back over to Dr. Hearon...which is good news. Dr. Hennington said she has been a great patient and he appreciated all I had done for her and that made me feel good :)

She is anxious to get home I am sure, I think by Saturday they will be making that move. I am so sad they are leaving, but understand. I try not to let her do things here such as cleaning and such...and those every day things she needs to be doing. I just can't let her clean and cook for me ... I just want to do everything for her you know?

Tommy has been doing a little to get the upstairs ready for her. I hope that Daddy can get everything done so she doesn't have to be downstairs on that cement floor.

But, I knew she would get better and would sooooon be going home. I just love taking care of her. sniffles...I will miss her so much! Her and daddy....:(

Keep on prayin'

Mom is still doing better, but today she was determined to get up and do things around the house. I tried to keep her from it, but she was determined. I already had Cara coming to do some things for me, and of course to see Illan :). But, Mom wouldn't give in. She washed dishes and got sick and threw up. It was the first thing she has really done and I think she over did it. She feels like if she doesn't start doing things, she won't be able to go home and do for herself.

I am conflicted, I don't really want her to go home...though I know that is where she needs to be. I would rather her not do much here, but how is she going to know what she can do at this point if she doesn't start. I did get some pintos, and she loves to cook them so in the morning we will get up and do that together, and make some cornbread I think.

My back is so out, went to the grocery store...first time I had been up since I had this virus and my back really told me about it. I was in tears walking down the aisle, to the point I almost called Randall and Cara to come finish for me. I spied one of those wheelchair buggies...came close to giving in...but, instead I left without a few things and had them put the groceries up.

I am not telling mom about my back, she worries about me and thinks I am doing too much. She thinks she should go home so I don't have to worry with her, but, I will be going there every day...so either way.

Just keep praying for her. (((HUGS)))

Sunshine

Misti and Lily made mom a gift...and Misti says she isn't crafty :)

Mom loves it!

And yes, she is looking so much better. I just can't believe that the oxygen has made her feel so much better. Though, she is on antibiotics too. We had delivered to us all a watermelon last night...soooooooooo good. Todd and Lisa brought us lunch as well earlier in the day...homemade turkey pot pie...made with a little of Leon's love as well! They surprised us with a watermelon as well late last night...yum yum yum!

Mom is really looking forward to July 7th at Lori and Mike's house. I am going to invite the Watts as well...those sisters are so sweet.

I need to work on getting the Pons clan together again, had plans in the works then Mom got sick and they had to be delayed...but soon!

Mom says hello and God bless you all for the prayers, she wouldn't have made the progress she has if it hadn't been for the prayers and God.

I hope everyone has a blessed week!

Hope

She looks so good!

Just wanted to throw a post up to say that Grandmaw looks really good! :)

Praise God!

Misti

Email from Todd

I woke up late this morning...just got on here about 15 minutes ago and checked my mail....and this was what was there:

Hope
I Just want to thank you and Scott for everything you do for mom and dad.You've always been there for them and put their needs before your own.and i will never forget it.Every night she spent in the Hospital it was you who stayed with her.Shes in the best place she could be right now and i thank you from the bottom of my heart.
P.S. I hope the taller toilet we put in worked better for mom.
I Love You
Brother Todd

I have been weary spiritually and physically and I can't even tell you how much this email has lightened my heart and soul. I know Todd is not perfect, Lord knows none of us are. But this letter touched my heart so deep. The good Lord knew I needed something, something to lift my spirits...so He sent me a letter. I love my family so much....all of them! I haven't done enough for mom and dad, there is no way I could repay the kindness and love they have shown me throughout my life. We all have opportunities to repay kindness and some times we take them and some times we don't. We put our jobs, money, possessions and all kinds of things on top of the list then followed by family and friends and kindness to them. I wish I could do more for them, for all of my family.

Mom is feeling better every day. I thought this set back would keep here even longer, but we are all working to get her home soon. Dad and Tommy and Todd are working hard to get the upstairs finished...if they had more help, I guess she would get home quicker. I know she will love to have her own space and her own everything. I know she thinks she is inconveniencing Scott and I, and she is really wanting to go home just because she wants Scott and I to have some privacy. Well, when she does go home, Scott is going to drop me off there every morning then pick me up every evening so I can clean and cook for her. At least for a while. I just don't feel good about leaving her all alone. I know she will have some help, Todd and Lisa just live up the hill...but they have a family to take care of and need to be there for that baby as well.

Thanks Misti for your calls as well, hopefully we will get to do lunch soon.

Ohhh and Mom does love the higher commode, she doesn't have to hurt herself to get up.

I am feeling much better today as well, fever broke and the congestion is easing a bit...I think we both got something at church on Sunday.

Update...

Mom is feeling better today, still really weak but the doctor said she took a couple steps back but will soon be on her way now that she will be breathing better. She feels much better compared to Wednesday. She is starting back on her inhalers as soon as we get a script for the face mask thing, she has such trouble using them. Her oxygen is helping so much, her color and sleep has improved more than I thought it would. I know she will be on it for at least 2 weeks....but maybe longer.

I am sick so I haven't been around her today, don't want to give her anything. I am wearing a mask if I leave my room. Though, they put her on a broad spectrum antibiotic so I don't think she will be getting anything from me. BUT, I would rather be safe than sorry.

Please still lift her up in prayers....add me to your list too please :). Not only for my health but have some other things that are going on I would rather not mention...but do request your prayers.

Oh and Misti...sorry, I didn't know about free root beer floats! I would have liked one too. But, Todd brought her a mocha thing from Arbys that she loveeeeed...I had the orange swirl thing. Mom mentioned the floats later, but it was probably too late to get anything. Thanks for calling though, sorry she couldn't go out with you tonight...Johnny called and said she shouldn't come anyway because of the heat. I had planned to go, but plans change. I hope it was great...would love some details! Love you...

Hope

Root Beer Float?

I'm hoping Grandmaw got her a root beer float from Sonic. They had them for free tonight. I planned on getting one for her and one for me without the float, but I had to go out of town. Did she get one? :D

Whew

Just got home, patiently waiting for this home health person to come and bring mom oxygen.

Last night when we got to the ER her oxygen level was 84-86 and it is supposed to be over 90. They immediately put her her on oxygen and she just as immediately started feeling better, actually she dozed off and slept most of the time she was in there.

All of her labs came back fine, her chest xray was ok...a couple small effusions (fluid) but nothing too big. The doctor came in and said Dr. Hennington is on the phone for you...how many doctors call and talk to the patient in the ER. She was very short of breath with conversation and since her oxygen level was really low he was going to keep her over night and start her on an antibiotic. This morning at about 5:30 he came in and changed her pain meds and put her on oxygen at home and will see her next week.

He explained her chest pain is not from her heart, that it is going to hurt to take deep breaths but she is going to have to do it and since it hurts, she doesn't breath deep and therefore it decreases her oxygen levels. Her shoulders and back have hurt since before the surgery, she has arthritis she says. The chest pain she is having is nothing like the pain she had before, she thinks it is her breast bone and ribs...which is to be expected. So if we get her breathing better she will keep her lungs expanded and that will not only help her breathing and reduce her chances of pneumonia...it will also condition her ribs and bones to be where they should be. While she was out Sunday she used her lungs and that is why she is so sore. He said she needs that though. So hopefully by next week she will be up to some outings and we can take it a little slower than one entire day of church, food, fun, visiting and such.

She is resting and feeling a little better, I fixed her a big tomato sammich and she loved it. She is addicted to beer....root beer that is :) Oh and Sonic Ice....thanks Brad for keeping us stocked!

Well, I can't think of anything else....might be because I haven't slept since yesterday morning. While at the hospital last night I barely got 20 winks.

Hope

Update...

I had typed another update, but as soon as I had finished almost she had gotten worse. Her shortness of breath is much worse, and she had told me she really wasn't having chest pain but now....she is. I hope it is nothing, but to be on the safe side we are heading to the ER and will let you all know as soon as we know anything.

Love you all...

Hope

Please pray!

Grandmaw is not feeling well. She's been having chest discomfort/overall fatigue since Sunday night. Please pray for her health!! She asked me to pray, so I'm asking any readers of her blog to pray, too!!!! Also, please pray that God will give her guidance on seeking medical intervention.

Thank you.

Misti

July 7th is getting close!

this is the invite I am getting ready to print up...gotta check on a few details but should be going out soon!

Lori and Mike are hosting our next Clark get together!
It should be lots of fun, food, music, laughter, pictures…well, you get the idea!

Mike and Lori are providing the pig, the rest is up to everyone else.
Drinks, side dishes and desserts will make this meal complete.
Having you and your family there will make the day complete.

No two people - no mere father and mother - as I have often said, are enough to provide emotional security for a child. He needs to feel himself one in a world of kinfolk, persons of variety in age and temperament, and yet allied to himself by an indissoluble bond which he cannot break if he could, for nature has welded him into it before he was born.

I was reminded today that things…things are not the most important, people are – family and friends. We have so much to learn from each other…so much history and future to share. We are a great family, so much love and so much laughter. We can’t take back yesterday but we can plan for tomorrow. What better way to spend a Saturday than rekindling family ties, laughing at a memory or making new ones. I know every person can’t come to every function, but let’s try to start making our extended families a priority.

We are going to try to plan these things every 3 months or so. If you want to host one at your house or have an idea…we can work out the details at Lori’s.
WHAT: Pig Pickin’
WHEN: July 7th, 2007 starting at 2 going until the pig is gone
WHERE: Lori and Mike’s house in Marion
WHY: Because We are FAM-I-LY…sing it

Call Hope at (828) 334-6990 for any questions or if you CAN’T come so she can guilt you into it JUST KIDDING. We all want to see you there though.
LAST thing…if you have pictures you want to share, bring them, I am going to scan them and will share with everyone. Plus I will be snapping away while I am there too.

Change...no expansion of this blog :)

Now that mom is on the mend...I was thinking about this blog and what I should do. Ruby's heart is healing and what on earth would I update on her here. Then it hit me....her family is her heart as well. So the tone of this journal might change a bit as time goes on to include more family things and not necessarily health related. Though I will always keep her health updated as well.

Family is more important than money or jobs or beliefs or anything really other than God and faith of course. We look into each others eyes and we see a piece of ourselves. Family love should be more unconditional, more tolerable, more easy, more expected, more freely given, more freely accepted. Time can't be taken back, we lost yesterday...did we spend it doing the important things such as praying, laughing, loving and fellowship with our families? If so...those memories are forever, if not...what do you remember about yesterday? I know we all have our family of husband and some have children, and those do come first...but why not open up to the other layers of family. We don't have to spend every day with our cousins, aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces, brothers, sisters, grandparents and parents...but we should remember time is fleeting. Regrets burn and I am sure we all have them. I think about family I have lost, Mark mostly...I don't want to feel that regret that I felt with him. I don't want anyone to feel that regret with anyone else in their families.

So just take time to go see someone, take time to send a card, a picture, make a call. I know we are all busy but time...it just is so slippery and we can't get it back. If there are things that upset you, things that have caused you to avoid family...is it really worth it? I am writing this to myself as much as to every family member that might read this. Apologies are not even needed, just start today as a new day and tell someone you love them. God says to forgive as he forgave us. Simple as that....ok not so simple, but we are commanded to do it nonetheless.

On that note, I shall digress. Next stop July 7th!

Ellen's visit..

I know...GASP I have no pictures...forgot my camera.

But, the day with her was wonderful and I am sure memories of that day will linger almost as long as a photo.

Mom thought we had left and I heard her on the phone with someone last evening talking about me and Ellen. She said that we blessed her heart when we laughed and cut up together. She went on and on about Ellen singing at church and also me and Lisa too. She was telling how Ellen, Lori and I have so much the same personality and silliness. It was sweet to hear her saying all these nice things about me...and Ellen and Lori as well. I walked in to her bedroom and didn't tell her I had heard, but she said...I thought you were gone?? I could have been talking about you. *smiles* I wiggled into her bed between her and daddy and we talked and laughed and I could have stayed there for hours.

Ellen has this voice that is flawless. She is full of Christ and it is made evident in her smile, her laugh and most definitely in her song.

After all the church activities were over and after we had stopped at the uncles...Her, mom and Scott and I stopped by Wilson's old house to take a breather and chat a while before Ellen made that long drive home. Todd has pictures on the wall of various musicians. But to one side there are pictures of family. Todd is so proud of his family, loves everyone of them so much. There was a picture of Todd at ohh about 14 with Pat Clark...they had sung at a wedding that day. Below it was a picture of Mark playing a fiddle and Lee Ervin (Ellen's dad) playing the guitar. There were several pictures of Mark, and a picture of Todd and Johnny and Little John playing on a stage in Valdese I think. Ellen loved looking at them, as much as Todd I suppose.

When Ellen sat down and we started talking. We had mentioned at the church about hoping she would move home...so we started talking about that again. She was very sincere when she said if she had a job here, she would love to move back to this area...to HOME. So she is really going to check into Sears to see if she can transfer to Hickory...wouldn't that be AWESOME! We could find a church together if the Lord led her to the same one as us! We are visiting Silver Creek next week matter of fact, LouElla invited me and I think it would be awesome to find a church that family goes to already. I really like Mom and Dad's church, but it is small and I want a church I can be active in and make friends to hang out with. I want Christian friends of a like mind...or close to a like mind...so we can fellowship, have fun and do things together. I WANT BURT AND LESLIE AND COLIN... :). Anyways, Ellen said she would visit church's too when she moved HOME. Mom and I were up talking this morning and mom just glowed when we talked about Ellen coming home. I could see us being very close, I already feel it. I can picture Her, Lori and I really spending a lot of time together. And Lisa just might have to be an adopted cousin :).

We hated to see Ellen go, but she will be back. She is coming for the July get together and may spend the night with me or mom one :)....I am voting ME!

Gran-Gran

I'm so glad that Debbie took Grandmaw to her doctor's appointment! Even though Grandmaw's blood is still thick, I'm glad the doctor will be able to regulate that with meds. Seems like most times that I visit, Debbie is there. She has a bright smile that warms a room and I'm glad my sweet Grandmother has a friend like Debbie! :) Debbie took her to Giovanni's and that seems like one of Grandmaw's favorite places. I remember taking her there a few months back along with her friend, Korey, and we had a great time.

Grandmaw's weight loss is wonderful -- her body just glows. Her incision also looks great -- I'm amazed at how strong her body is in healing so quickly. Praise be to God!!!

When I called to check in on Grandmaw last week and asked if she needed anything I could sneak in to her, I was surprised that she asked for Brady's tuna salad. He made a batch just that afternoon and the timing couldn't have been better!! She likes all the fresh veggies he puts in the tuna salad. She asked if I helped with it, and I sheepishly told her that I held Lily up to watch him stir it... I don't think that counts... she got a chuckle about that! :)

Lily enjoys spending time with her Gran-Gran. When Gran-Gran asked Lily is she would like some grapes from the basket Gran-Gran's cousins delivered earlier that day, I don't think Lily's smile could have gotten any bigger! ;) We enjoy spending time with Gran-Gran and we've been waiting for Gran-Gran to feel up to a trip to the park for the longest!! She was too tired to go Friday as we planned, but we've rescheduled and look forward to that outing next week.

ON THE QT (just kidding, I hope Grandmaw does read this!): Lily is helping me with a craft project for her Gran-Gran that ran out of supplies and we've been waiting since May 11th for the supplies to come in the mail so that we can finally finish it up!!! The supplies finally made it yesterday, so we hope to deliver the product of our efforts soon. (It was supposed to have been finished before Grandmaw got out of the hospital but was derailed when the supplies ran out -- oh, well!)

MEMORY: I remember last summer when we went with Grandmaw and Grandpaw to church most Wednesday nights. Here is a picture of Gran-Gran and Lily from one of those nights after Grandpaw's series teaching of the Revelation:

Great Sunday!

Just wanted to update that today was a wonderful day, it couldn't have been better ... unless more of the family had been there. Ellen came and sang and ohh she blessed our hearts. Lisa and I sang and then Todd even got up and sang. Ohh and Daddy sang :).

We had a lot there, even some people from a neighboring church Silver Creek came and stayed for the service...Silver Creek had their home coming today as well. It was some of our relatives. They had a dedication to Mom and Dad and that is why we wanted as much family there as possible. Brad and Kita came. Mom and Dad were so touched by the things said and done today. They sat up front while the entire church made a line and came and hugged them and told them how much they are appreciated. It was so special.

The food was great, I cooked a ton for once. Mom made her dumps. We had a wonderful Fellowship before during and after the food. Ellen and mom and I went to Ray and Nancy's and took them a small album of the pictures from when Eddie and Ellen came. They loved them and we played with Samuel and Eli....ohhh such cute cute babies. Samuel is a ham, Eli is a little shy. But when I was leaving Samuel gave me a hug and Eli talked to me a little so all was good.

We stopped by Ed and Gladys house, but she was gone but I did leave the album with Ed. Elmer already has his. Eddie I will mail you yours soon, Ellen has hers and is cutting her pictures out while I type probably :). Nooo right now she is driving home :(.

PRAY PRAY PRAY that we can find Ellen a good job, she said if there was a job here she would move home, that would be so wonderful.

Also, pray for our get together in July and then all of us ladies are going to Myrtle Beach in October for sun, fun, music, preaching, food, fellowship, hot tubs and shopping :). I am getting us a condo and we are going for a week. I can't wait. So far it is Lori, Louise, Ellen, Mom, Gladys, Nancy, Kita and me.

ALSO...Family reunions are in October as well, Clark and Chapman. I will post more info here when we get it.

OK heading to the inlaws for the evening, just wanted to jot todays happiness down and mom is soooooo tired I think she will appreciate some quietness.

Mom was telling me how blessed she is to have such a great family. She feels like she has two daughters. Lisa has been so good to mom, mom tells me how much she does for her when she is at home. She has been the one during all of this illness that I could depend on, day or night. Scott and I both have came to love and appreciate Lisa and Todd so much...even more than before. I have to say in the past, I judged Lisa and didn't treat her like I should have. I have said things and done things I am so sorry for. I really am Lisa, sorry for so much. You never gave up on me though, you never turned your back on me when I was not the nicest person in the world to you. But Lisa...you are my sister...maybe not by blood but by Christ and by marriage. Everyone in this family should be so happy to have you, and be so thankful for all you do for mom and dad. I love you.

Mom is mom to a lot of people, she is so glad to be getting to spend more time with Ellen and Eddie and though she could never fill Audrey's place, I know she loves you both like you were her own. Her eyes light up every time you are mentioned.

Basket of joy...

Mom's cousins came by and brought a HUGE basket of fruit with the most sweet card. It really touched moms heart since she had been feeling a little down. She has had a really busy few days. Which, I think is good for her. Thursday she wasn't feeling so good so we didn't go get her blood checked and rescheduled. Todd and Lisa made their daily visit early in the day then Misti and Lily came over for a little bit, mom just thinks Lily is so precious, we all do. We had a late dinner and then mom went to bed. Friday I heard something in the washer, and assumed it was Scott...I got up and mom said she washed a load of clothes! She is really starting to do so much better. Her friend Debbie came over and I had plans already and dad was tired, so Debbie volunteered to take mom to her appointment.

I call her on my way home and she said her and Debbie went out for Pizza.....oh wait, let me tell you what I did *giggle*. I called her and she said hello and I said Helllllo really loud and high, and she said Regina???? HAHAHA I couldn't resist, I said yesssssssssssssss, hey Ruby how are you? We talked like that for a couple of minutes and then mom asked if I (Regina) was working a lot and I said ohh no, I am staying home taking care of my mother. She said what?? I busted out laughing....oooo she was gonna woop me she said, but then she laughed too. It was so much fun.

She had a full day and it was so nice to see her tired from doing things than being tired from just laying around. She is getting it all back and I am so happy!

Today she got up and helped us some with the yardsale. I had made ham and sausage and biscuits and she put the meat in the middle. THEN I came in and she had made gravy with the drippings .... mmm so good. She got dressed and daddy drove our car to take her to let Lori cut her hair. She got there and Gladys was there, Ed too maybe and Lori cut her hair and they all had lunch. Louise and Elmer came too. I had printed the pictures from when Ellen and Eddie were here and sent Elmer his and the loved them. When she got home she was so happy and just really had a great day. I went to get some chicken for her, she wants to make Chicken and Dumps for church tomorrow.

It is just sooo great to see her getting along so well. I am so happy for her and all of us. I love that feeling of my strong loving mother being here a good while longer.

I can't wait til tomorrow :)

Mom's spirits are up quite a bit more....she has had visits and such, I know she is sick of looking at just me and Todd every day so it really has been a breath of fresh air! God is good....all the time!

Sorry so long...

Mom is getting stronger every day. She took a walk today and says she feels better every day. She has lost her top denture and is very embarrassed about it. But, they won't re do them she said because of her heart surgery. They have to have clearance from her heart doctor. So she is a little upset about that. Otherwise things have been good.

She has really appreciated all the calls and visits, Ellen you made her day yesterday!! She has received a lot of cards and a few are constant in their calls and visits. THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU. Lena my mother in law went out of her way to make a big dinner for us all and that was so special. Mom and I both are surprised at some that haven't called or came by or helped out, but she would never ask and neither would I.

She is so excited about Homecoming on Sunday, since I know she won't read this...they are also dedicating the church to Mom and Dad on Sunday, which will be awesome. It is a surprise and I know they are going to feel so honored. They started the church and it has grown and grown. Lisa and I will be singing, Ellen is coming to sing, I think Todd is going to sing as well. Mom said she couldn't with no teeth haha. I feel so sorry for her.

Dad is finally perking up a little. This wore him out as well, along with some family stress...he was pretty down and out for a while. But he is stronger than anyone thinks and has finally is feeling better. Being without mom for a while was hard on him, and that first day she was home he stayed in bed with her almost the whole day ... so sweet. They do love each other soo much.

Mom is going to talk about all she has went through Sunday I think, I plan on video taping it and hope to get it on here. I also have some pictures to upload too.

Eddie...I will mail you your album since you can't come Sunday, you will be missed but like Ellen said...we can talk about you :)

Love you all...talk soon.

Hope

Follow up appt.

Mom went to see Dr. Hennington today and all is well. She is doing very good and the x-ray they did looked good as well. She was worn out to say the least, most she has done in a while.

She is hoping to go to Gary's on Sunday for the annual Pig Pickin'. Then the next Sunday is Home coming at their church and she is hoping that Ellen and Eddie and family are coming...we are all hoping that!

Thanks again for all the prayers...we know that HE got her through this.

07-07-2007

Some of you may know by now...Lori has invited all the family to her house for a 'Pig Pickin'!

I am making an official invitation and will mail it out soon. We chose the 7th since it would be the end of the holiday week and most will be home. Also, so we could have an excuse to have fireworks.

We are hoping to have lots of music too. Johnny has already said he can't come, but I know Todd is and I am sure he can line up some people to sing and pick with him. Anthony is pickin a little now so we will have to get him up there. I am sure Gary is coming with Todd and I hope Little John. At the least...we can have a CD player *smiles*.

We are having lots of food, just asking everyone to bring a dish or two and maybe a drink. We are having watermelon of course, and lots of pictures.

So keep a look out in your mail....you'll be hearing from me soon. (except those that have said they are not coming already :) )

Times...they are a lookin' up!

When mom got home the first day she was just so happy to be out... to be in her bed, sleep beside Daddy, to eat normal food...just to be home. That first day, we planned to keep things small and just let her get some rest. Lisa had brought her home from the hospital and Todd was here so we decided to have an impromptu dinner. It blossomed from there. Bradley and Kita came, Cara and Randall came as well...with baby Illan. We all ate and were sitting down while mom was laying down and a few left. Then Lori and Tiffany came to pick up Sandy, mom loves Lori so much - she is like a daughter to her I think. Mom was so thankful they came to pray with her and to just show her love. And thank you Lord for sending someone who would take great care of Sandy, Anthony and the whole family love her...makes me so happy she has a loving family and not as sad knowing she isn't with us. Misti and Lily came by as well.

I think we just over done her that night, she started having some chest pains and finally it eased up. Well, since then she had been having the pain a lot. Saturday night, she came in the living room and told us it was really bad and she may need to go to the hospital. She had taken a nitro and it had helped, so she thought. I started asking her about her pain medication and she said she had only been taking part of one now and then. I explained to her that she didn't just have a tooth pulled, she had open heart surgery! The doctor said for the first 2 weeks she should take them every 6 hours on schedule. So we did that, she took a whole one with some Tyelenol and that night she slept pretty good. So all day yesterday we kept her on a schedule and she wasn't up all night like the previous ones. Today she says she feels good and hasn't had to take any nitro since. She still gets tired, but the pain is easing. I am so relieved. Scott is too, he stays up late and it worried him so much to see mom coming in the living room to sit up every 30 minutes or so.

I appreciate all the calls and visits, they mean so much to mom and to me. I hate I can't just sit and call people much...between all that I am doing for mom and dad and my own things....I barely call anyone. We do have the house phone in now, and please call her on it...saves my cell bill and hers.

Lisa and Todd...thank you again for all you have done and are doing. Thank you Lena for cooking a big dinner for us last night, I am not a big cooker and this last week has been a challenge :). Mom enjoyed your visit so much! Scott....what can I say, you have been so wonderful. I am so blessed to have you and mom is too. I know you are so tired after working all day and that long drive, yet you still have time to help me with mom and house stuff. You take the time to talk to her and help in any way you can. I love you spending time with daddy as well.
Times like this should make us all cherish our families, to put anything that divides aside and concentrate on the one that needs us the most. I am glad I have such a family.

LESLIE...thank you so much for calling me every day and to check on me. I am so thankful for your prayer, love and constant friendship. You mean the world to me. Burt and Colin too :)

DIVAS....thank you so much for all the calls, all the prayers and the Flowers!! Mom loves them, they are in her room...and I get to see them all day too :). Jen...thank you for the bear...it is a smile maker every time we look at it. I am so blessed to have such good friends!!

Ellen and Eddie...mom loves you so much...we all do, but mom just has such a special place in her heart for you. We all wish you lived closer so we could be together more. Mom gets all teary eyed when she talks about you. She can't wait to see you for Home Coming! We are all looking forward to it. Ellen....maybe we could find a song to sing together???

gonna post another post about a get together!

God is GOOD!

I just wanted to post quickly that mom is HOME! Well, my home. We are putting a phone in so they don't use their minutes on their cellular phone. 828-874-0816 is the number and should be hooked up by tomorrow evening.

She is good, she is tired and a little weak but to be expected. I know she felt wonderful getting in her own bed...daddy brought it today. So please call, please come by...I know she will love the company. I know she wants to really rest today but after today...come one come all!!!

Love you and thanks so much for all your prayers and love. And thank you Lisa for helping so much, I love you...and I am not just saying that to get potato salad...though it would be nice :)

Finally some good news!!

I just wanted to take a minute...to finally share some good news!
My dad went to see mom early this morning and said she was still out of it a bit, but doing a little better. They were giving her 2 more units of blood and a new sedative.
I went at lunch and I walked in and she was sound asleep...not like the last few days where her eyes were twitching and she was moving around on the bed...she was REALLY asleep. I didn't have the heart to wake her, so I kissed her chubby cheeks and stepped out to talk to the nurse. I told her that I left her a mother's day card, please give it to her since she is asleep. The nurse told me they had tried to get her up walking, but she was very combative and even took swats at the nurse.

So I went to have lunch with the in-laws and daddy calls me from seeing her at the next visit...and said she was still a little...just a little confused but he said she let him kiss her, she told him she loved him. Soo, I was so psyched to go in and see her.

Scott and I go in, her eyes are closed. I was :( thinking I wouldn't get to see her again. I touched her hand and whispered mamma...and she opened her eyes...and there she was, her eyes were clear. My heart leaped as she said hey Honey...Hey Scop (she calls him Scop...Cara couldn't say Scott..lol). Then she said when am I going home...:) I told her after she starts walking and is able to do that they will let her go home. She said she can't wait. She asked if she was coming to my house or hers...I asked where she wanted to go...she said she would love to sleep in her own bed, so I told her that if she wants she can go to her house for a couple days then come to my house. Her eyes lit up, she said she would love that. She held my hand and she said she loved me and wanted me to spend the night with her when she gets in a regular room...she said she missed me. Tears fell down my face hearing my sweet mother was back. It was the best Mother's Day gift ever.

I had taken a peony (flower) from Lena's garden...they smell sooo sweet and I asked her if she wanted to smell it and she did...over and over. She asked if I had let Ellen and Eddie know how she was and I said I had...she asked if Daddy had been eating right.

I called everyone I knew that would pray for her Friday - Sunday and I think that is what got her out of this..all those prayers. I was so heart broken...I felt like my prayers weren't getting through, I prayed hard...but knew I needed help. It was like she was giving up. She said she was ready to go.

Thank you all...I know I will sleep tonight relieved that I have my mamma back.

Update

Thanks for all the prayers...I feel helpless and useless. She is still in ICU and will be there for at least 2 more days the doctor says. Her breathing is better, the chest tube is still in draining fluid. She lost some blood they think from the chest tube and are giving her 2 more units today. The doctors say that she is improving. But her mental state is not anywhere close to being normal. Thursday night it started, she thought she was at her brothers for a little bit, then she thought she was at Todd's. All the time asking me why I won't let her go home, that she just wants to go home from there and get in her bed beside Daddy.

She tried to pull out her catheter, IV's...refusing to keep her oxygen on. Every 20 minutes she would get riled up and start trying to get out of the bed. She said so many hurtful things to me, and before you all say it...I KNOW I KNOW she doesn't mean them...but right now, right this minute in her mind she means them. I am not taking them to heart really but to know she really feels that way right now more than breaks my heart. I won't go into all she said, but I am so disheartened right now I can barely type this. It isn't like my mom, she is usually the most kind, most sweet woman....she isn't right now. She didn't even want daddy to pray over her. She is having some delusions as well...she thinks they killed a dog in ICU and had a funeral, they are wearing masks and scaring her. She asked to go to KFC, Maggie Valley and Frye Regional Medical center (which is where she is now). The doctors hope that once she gets home in familiar surroundings all of this will go away. They are going to get her up today to move around and I hope that helps.

I came to Scott's parents for dinner and to just chill out. I had a horrible migraine last night and am still nursing that. I don't know what to do, how to help...it seems when ever me or daddy...or anyone really goes in to see her her oxygen levels drop and her heart rate and blood pressure goes up. She gets so aggravated and tries to talk too much. Just please pray for her, pray that she wakes up in her mind. Scott says he looked in her eyes and it was like the real Ruby wasn't there.

I am just so down about her and it is hard to think that she is so mad at me....even said she hated me. I know that it is not her, but it is right now. This is really how she feels right now. It hurts.

I love ya'll and will try to get on Monday and let you know how she is doing.

Not a great day...

Last night after all the family left, mom got really sick on her stomach. We asked for something for nausea and then I sat down beside her rubbing her arm and hand and then BAM 3 nurses barge in...scared me to death. They pulled up her gown to see if her EKG leads were on correctly and then another nurse comes in and said she was brady. That means her heart was slow. I tried to remain calm, mom was getting anxious and I didn't want to add to it. Her nurse explained that she needed to have a pacemaker hooked up externally. Said her heart rate had dropped significantly and that is what was making her sick. The rest of the night she was in a lot of pain, her breathing was labored. Then this morning the doctor came in and he seemed very concerned and said that her blood counts were low so he is ordering blood. He said getting her counts up will make her feel better too.

I can't tell you how hard it is to watch her and not be able to do much of anything to make it better. I came home while daddy was there to catch my breath and let Sandy out. I stopped by Mark's grave on the way home and asked him to talk to God face to face and tell Him how much we need her here, how much we love her. I can't imagine a day without her.

I love you all...

Hope

My God delivers again..

Today...made me think of this song..

My God delivers again, oh, my God delivers again!
When is seems that all is lost
He reaches down His hand.
Then all the forces of evil have to flee at His command;
Just when things look hopeless, my God delivers again.

I admit that the devil let those seeds of doubts sneak in and play havoc, but at the end of the day...My God is in control. He used the hands of the doctors and now the nurses to bring my sweet mother through this. I think God confused Dr. Carlton so that Dr. Hennington would step in. We don't know the why sometimes, but God makes things clear eventually and the change of doctors is clear to me. Mom would have never been satisfied with the other doctor...a doctor that wasn't a Christian. I wonder if mom dreamed, I know she had that peace...she dreamed about Mark a couple nights ago...I wonder if he visited with her while she was out. I am almost sure he did. On the way to the hospital this morning and this fairly new song came on...He will deliver me. It says when I am down and worried that I'm reminded of the fourth man walking around in the fire with the three Hebrew children...He delivered them, He will deliver me. And He did....He delivered me, Mom, Dad...all of us. I had this horrible thought while she was in there...what if God wanted to take mom, she would make an awesome angel. What if He wanted to take her to get to the heart and soul of her children and her family. There are those that are not where they should be and as much as Mark's death was a turning point for me...what if God wanted to use Mom in the same way for others. I had selfish thoughts with that .... I want it all... my mom and my family closer to Christ, not just closer...walking the walk, living it every day. I have such talented brothers...ohh how much talent is there.

Two weeks ago, God told me that if I don't start singing for Him that I will lose it. He convicted me so. If I wouldn't do it for him...I should do it for my mom and dad. I fell on my face crying out that I would. The next day Lisa and I sang at church, I was nervous but I looked out at my mom with tears streaming down her face. I looked at my dad on the front row with his eyes closed drinking in every word. Then I realized tears were in my eyes and the Spirit of God just filled me right on up. I sang The Lighthouse and though Todd sings it the best ever...it felt great! It was a few days later that I was asked to sing at Mary Erb's funeral. Something I said I would NEVER EVER do. I didn't hesitate to say yes...I didn't say it...God did. That Saturday morning, I was nervous until I got to the church and then all of it went away and I stood up there in front of so many family and friends and sang How Great Thou Art...and you know what, I didn't sing it for mom or dad. I didn't even sing it for Mary or those family members out there. I sang it for God. That was the first time I felt like I was really using my talent. I regret it has taken this long.

Family, we aren't promised another day with mom or dad. Just as close as mom was to meeting Mark and God today...we have the same chance really. God can snatch us up and it could happen any second. I KNOW....if I close my eyes down here, I will open them in Heaven. I hope and pray that you all have that same assurance. *Sermon off :)*

I love you all so much and am so blessed to have such a wonderful and close family. I could type about each of you and how much you mean but that would take a long long time so just know I love you and can't wait to spend more time, more happy time with you all.

Lori and I are planning a get together around the 4th of July...the 7th I think is that Saturday and we are planning it for her house and a pig pickin with all the trimmings. Soon as the 'planning committee' haha can get back together we will get it going.

ALSO...women we are going to Myrtle Beach the first part of November for Jubilee by the Sea at my old church. It is lots of singing, preaching, missionaries...just a lot of God! We are planning on getting a few rooms or however many we need or maybe a condo and stay on the beach and shop too. So start putting back those pennies! It is way early so no excuses not to go. So far I know that Lisa, Lori, Louise, Mom, Gladys, Me and Ellen are going. I can't wait!

OK...I am going back to bed. I went to sleep at 6 and just woke up to get in bed. Thank you Lord for letting me sleep some. Muscle Relaxer for my back helped with that too.

Love you all,
Hope

Surgery Day...

3:30 my phone rings...."Hope, you up??" It is my daddy making sure I was getting ready for this big day.

4:30 I hear him pull up and we are off with Tommy and Mom towards Johnnys. We stop and Tommy rides with Johnny and we all are heading to the hospital. We get there way early, before the valet arrives so Daddy drops mom and I off and he goes to park the car. It was nice to have a few minutes alone with her. I had been choking back the tears already and soon as she looked at me and said to stop worrying I fell to my knees in front of her hugging her tight, us both crying by now. I told her how proud I was to have her as my mother and how much I valued her and appreciated her. I couldn't stop hugging her. A nurse came in to open the waiting areas and I sat back up in the chair and dried my tears. I just looked at her and tried to memorize every detail of her smile and her soft eyes. Then...our private moment ended. Here came daddy and Tommy and Johnny and I put on my smile and we all sat back and talked and laughed like nothing was going on.

5:30 we step on the elevator to take her up to pre-op. Daddy and I take her up and we talk to the nurse and then Dad steps out while I help her get undressed and in her gown. She is so calm, so assured that our God is going to take care of her and us. The nurse said that all of us could come in now and have a prayer and such so Richard Ellington (her Pastor) and daddy go on up and prays with her and Steve Erb was there too. They come back down and all the family goes up. It was myself, Daddy, Todd, Lisa, Johnny, Elmer, Louise and Tommy. We all gather around her bed and talk and laugh and hold her hand. Then another nurse comes in and says it is time! So Daddy prays over her again and all the family hugs and kisses her and I get her teeth and love on her a minute more...and OHH MY GOSH...my daddy kissed her on the lips!!! EEEEK I have never saw that haha - so sweet.

Just as we get downstairs again, here came her brothers Ray and Ed and Gladys. I hate they didn't get to see her before she went in. We all went to the CCU waiting room and then went down to eat breakfast. As I was getting my biscuits and gravy and eggs and hashbrowns...who do I spy but Dr. Mark Hennington...her master surgeon! He comes to me...and you know he only had met me one time!... but he came to me and said that things were going to go fine and he will look forward to giving me good news after the surgery is over. He has very kind eyes. But yeah...me standing there with my breakfast of champions (not) and he stood there with fruit, juice and yogurt...haha...I gotta make a change!

We all were sitting in the waiting room for what seemed like days...the nurse calling every hour to give us an update. Always great news...getting more relieved by the moment. Then the last call...from Dr. Hennington and he said things went great and he would be out to talk to us soon. Richard prayed a prayer of thankfulness and then the doctor came in. His eyes a little more tired than earlier but just as kind. He said that mom did so great. That her heart is so strong and they were able to get a vein from her legs (which was a big issue) and she held up really well. He said the next few days will be hard but she should get along fine.

Most everyone left at this time, knowing she wouldn't be awake to know they were there. So when they called us back we all were allowed to go. Todd, Lisa, Daddy, Scott, Lori, Tommy and myself went back and the nurse explained the next few hours to us: they would be waking her up slowly then taking the breathing tube out and then once she was breathing on her own we could come and see her one more time. I was worried seeing her with all the tubes, but seeing her like that didn't scare me as bad as I thought.

We all went to lunch and then all that was left was Dad, me and Scott. Finally they called us back and only 2 at a time so Dad and I went. It was the hardest part yet. Soon as we walked in she said Ice Hope...Ice. I saw the cup and wanted to give her a bite, but the nurse said noooooo her stomach isn't fully awake and if she eats a lot of it she will throw up and it will be so hard on her chest. I understood but that natural instinct to soothe anything that is hurting my mom made it so hard. Mom was crying out in pain, her back was hurting her so bad. My dad rubs her back all the time and she was begging us to. But we couldn't get to her back. Her fingers were numb and she wanted us to rub them too...but she was so bound up we could barely do it. She wanted to roll, we couldn't help her. I couldn't help but cry, daddy too. We were helpless to her. I wanted to crawl up beside her and just hold her, I am sure daddy wanted to do the same. The nurse reassured us that she was doing great and she just needed rest tonight. We told them that she wouldn't want anyone seeing her like that so no visitors for the rest of the night...let her rest and we gave her our numbers.

Dad and I both wrestled with the thought of coming home. Of course we didn't want to leave her, but we couldn't' be with her. This would probably be the only night we could rest and the remainder of the week I would be spending the night and that after this long day my back and soul needed a good nights rest. Dad too, so we told the nurse and here I am. I am making her bed up and getting her room 100% ready tonight and then sleeping as much as I can until I go in the morning.

Thank you for all your prayers, and for all of your thoughts and cards and calls.

Mom is doing good..

Just to update, she is doing very good and doesn't seem nervous at all. She is praying for God to use the hands of the surgeon. She just called, is very worried about her cousin Mary Erb. They are taking her off of life support today and there is a very small chance that she will live through the day...so please pray for her.

Mom wants to have a dinner on Sunday and I need to call some people I guess.

Anyone wants to eat with us...bring a dish and come on :)

Other emails I have gotten

I sent the Sword of The Lord a prayer request for mom....this was their reply

Thank you for your confidence in the Sword staff and praying. I have sent your inquiry to the office that starts the prayer letters. God bless you and May the Lord's hand be evident in all things. Jer. 32:27 "Behold, I am the Lord, the God of all flesh; is there anything too hard for me?" Eunice Hurt Secretary to Marlon W. Smith

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These are some of the messages from my friend on a fertility website that I am a member of.

Sending a prayer out to Hope's Mom... let it be in God's hands and he will answer.
Janet

I will say a prayer for her and her family right now.
LynneCline

Much luck to Hope's mom. You will be in my thoughts and prayers...
LISA

Oh Hope, I am so sorry that your mamma is sick! I will be praying for you all!
Kari

Hope, praying for your mom. We need to keep all the prayer warrior's that we have in this day and age!
Sundance

Hope - I am hoping that your mom is doing better. She will be in my prayers tonight. Hugs to you.
Kat

(((BIG HUGS))) Hopie! Prayers for your mom too!
Michelle

Oh, Hope. I just read the update. Hang in there sweetie!! {{{{{{{MANY BIG HUGS}}}}}}} to you and you're mom. You both are in my thoughts and prayers.
LISA

Hope, your mother looks and sounds like a beautiful person inside and out. She will most definitely be in my prayers.
Sara

Hope - Your mother sounds like an amazing woman. I have to say that in the posts I've shared with you, I've come to see your own faith, love and humor. I am assuming that those wonderful traits come from your mom based on what you've said about her. I'll pray for your mom, for you and for your family.
Jamie

Hope ill be praying for you're mother , she sounds an amazing woman! (((hugs)))
NIKKIE

Hope~awww hun i read your story & it brought tears to my eyes i'm so sorry your family is going through this difficult time w/your mom i'll be praying for happy happy news in the week to come. (((BIG HUGS)))
Leah

Hope, I am praying for you as always, with extra thoughts for your beautiful mother. If you hope to be a tenth of the woman that she is, then I KNOW she must be remarkably strong!!! I pray that God blesses you with extra strength for you and for your mom. Please keep us posted!!!
xxoo,Lori

Hope-I will definitely say a prayer for your mother. She sounds like an incredible women and a beautiful soul. It is wonderful that she is such a amazing role model for you and everyone she comes in contact with. I am sure she has changed many lives and lead many ppl to the kingdom of God.
Breigh

Hey Hope, what kind of surgery is it?? Is it a Cath with stints or bypass or what? Just curious. I'm sorry I have missed about your mom but I am sure she will be fine and up and running in no time! She is in my thoughts and prayers.
Air

I am so blessed by these ladies...they keep the prayers going for mom and our family. Also, Jami...a really close friend there sends mom cards and pics of her babies...moms new grandbabies :). I know that Carla, DeeDee, Pennie, Shannon, Michelle, Laura, Jennifer, Christina and Robyn are praying too.

Emails from Ellen and Lori

Hey Hope, My Internet was down. Mom told me about the incident with the forgetful doctor, that tells me that the Lord is going before Ruby. I have a peace about Ruby's surgery. The lord is watching out for her. I love you all and miss you, have to leave to pick up kids from School. I am going to plan a get together this summer. I am praying for Ruby. I loved the Ruby site, I tried to put a message on the site but it said I had to have a password. Will work on that later. I love aunt Ruby. I thank God for that peace that passes all understanding. The world can't understand why we can go through trials and still claim Jesus, but what the world don't know is that Jesus is the one that helps us through and takes the bad things and turn them into blessings.

Love Lori

Hope , I enjoyed our time together too , the older you get the more you realize what's important in life ( family) . I will be listing to hear from you about Ruby's surgery . Give her my love . I am looking forward to our trip to your church . Tell Ruby to start planning ...........
I Love you lots Lori

Hey , Hope I Can't believe how confused that Dr. was , maybe God confused him for Ruby's sake . Hope all is well , we are praying for Ruby .. I really think God intervened and stopped that other Dr. from performing surgery on Ruby . Tell Ruby I said Hey and I love her and praying for her - I have to go get the kids from school, love and kisses, bye!

Lori
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Hope, I have just been reading "Rubys Heart" blog. Thanks for the update. I can't help but feel the delay is an answer to all this praying. We definitely don't want a distracted surgeon and God will do the surgery when the time is right. We will pray that God prepares her body and the surgeons hands while we wait. It's all going to be alright and even better than we could ask or hope. Hug and kiss Ruby and your Dad for me. I will write more later.

Love, Ellen PS I like all the pics, just not my part of them:)

I am so glad to hear the surgeon is a christian..now if that's not an answer to prayer then nothing is. I am glad the Lord confused the first surgeon...he was the wrong guy! I love you all. I pray daily for Ruby and love reading what God is up to in this situation. I will post a comment one day to the blog. My computer is old and slow and I have little patience when I want to write back! Thanks for posting a picture of the bluegrass boy band (I am sure they have a better name). The videos were good too. Let me know if there is anything at all I can do for you all.
Love, Ellen

Direction..

We finally have one! Yesterday mom and dad went to see Dr. Hearon. I couldn't go, but I printed off the post here about our experience with Dr. Carlton. Dad gave it to Lisa the PA first, and then she gave it to Dr. Hearon. Dad said he came in so red faced, could tell he was angry and upset. He said very little actually. Mom said before he said a word he gave her a big ole bear hug. Then told them there is a plan. He had just gotten off the phone with Dr. Hennington - partner with Dr. Carlton. He said they discussed everything and looked up at dad and said it was close to a 'Jesus talk'! Daddy said that Dr. Hearon said mom did need the surgery and really didn't have much to say about Dr. Carlton. He also said he faxed over my note to Dr. Hennington and that his office should call them and set up an appointment for today.

Well, dad called about 7:30 and said to get ready they are ready to see mom. We get there and mom and I walk in while dad is parking the car, and this short man in green scrubs is in the hall. He says hello and was so nice. His nurse puts us in a room and the door doesn't even get shut when he walks in and shakes all of our hands, greeting each of us with a big smile. From the moment he walked in I felt at ease. He talks to mom for a minute and then tells us that he isn't going to comment on Dr. Carlton but here is what he thinks. That surgery while she is in relatively good health is best, there is 97-98% chance that she will do fine with the surgery. He said after the surgery she will fell so much better. He is also going to try to get rid of her atrial fibrillation which would be soooo great as well. He talked to us for a long time, he showed us the cath video again and a model of the heart showing us where the blockages were.

But the biggest thing, most important that put us all at ease was he said something about the Lord, and mom stopped him and said "You just mentioned the Lord, are you a Christian?" He didn't hesitate and stated profoundly "YES"! That made mom light up. He said it again, I am a born again Christian! The rest...was just gravy.

God had a plan, I think he really put confusion into Dr. Carlton for a reason, God knew we needed this other doctor. God has a plan always, sometimes we just get in his way.

So, he said mom could have her surgery this week and he said he could give her up to 2 weeks. Of course mom said ooo 2 weeks. So, before we left his office I asked to schedule it. She has pre-op on May 7th and surgery on May 8th. We will know the time when she goes to pre-op.

So pray, PRAY PRAY PRAY. She will be needing them. She says God has given her perfect peace about the surgery which makes me feel better, I would hate her worrying so much.

Lighten the mood :)

This picture is strange...I took a picture of Grandpa Charlies lil cabin and then took a picture of the band somewhere else and put them together...turned out pretty cute I thought :)

Lisa and I, along with Brad, Marquita, Randall, Cara and Illan went to hear Johnny, Todd, Little John and Gary play in Marion on Saturday. It was fun and I needed the distraction! I forget how talented my brothers are sometimes. These are a couple videos from that night.

http://s68.photobucket.com/albums/i24/hopelail/?action=view&current=100_2811.flv

http://s68.photobucket.com/albums/i24/hopelail/?action=view&current=100_2817.flv

After it was over, I stopped in and saw Matthew! Ohh goodness when did he grow up??? He still has such a sweet sweet disposition and you can tell he loves the Lord. He hugged me and life just seemed to catch up with us. Though, Scott and I are planning on coming up there and having dinner soon with them...I know it won't be everyone again, but I miss Roy...Matthew and Lori so much, some of my best memories are when Uncle Elmer would hear me hit the floor rolling out of bed and him coming in and picking me up, or Lori laughing so hard she let a fizzle dizzle! haha. I want to know Holly, she sounds so precious. Really...I just want to get closer to all of my family...where would we be without our God and our family? a sad sad place I am sure. Ohh did I mention Matthew is sooooo pretty!...err I mean handsome!

Mom is doing good today, she is sad about Luc, but she sounds good. We went to church with her and ate lunch with her yesterday....great Sunday.

UPDATE

We get to the surgeons office, sitting in the exam room waiting for almost 40 minutes. He comes in..."Mrs. Pons...hmmmm well, here is how it is". He then asks if she had had any chest pain since being in the hospital. She said...no, just a lot of shortness of breath. I told him she was put on Imdur and that nitro seems to be keeping the pain at bay...plus we are trying to keep her from doing anything. He said good good. THEN...he said, well Mrs. Pons, with your cardiac history, your serious breathing problems and all your many health issues.... IF I did surgery on you, I would kill you. You have more health issues than anyone I have ever seen!! My mouth dropped, Dads teeth nearly hit the floor...and Mom is doing the happy dance in her chair praising God that she doesn't have to do surgery. Daddy and I are sitting there with puzzled looks on our faces. I was trying to figure out what serious serious health issues she has, and trying to think what heart issues she has had prior to this except for the stents and Atrial Fibrillation. I know her breathing was mostly from the pneumonia. Mom is still just smiling and going right on with it, and I ask...what are the risks of her not having surgery. He said she wouldn't survive surgery. My face a skewed even more. I think to myself...in the hospital before you let her go home, you said bypass was necessary for her to have quality of life, necessary for her to feel better, her heart was strong and the blockages though bad - were in the best places if you were to have to have a bypass. He had gone on and on how there were risks but the risks not having the surgery were almost imminent fatal heart attack. I come out of my thoughts and ask him - Didn't the pneumonia play the biggest part on her breathing? She has never had asthma or emphysema or anything like that. Puzzled himself, he looks down at the record in front of him and with a shocked look he mumbles "I have the wrong record" and says he will be back. Now, I knew why we sat there for so long at first, he was reviewing "HER" chart and "HER" cath video. Soooo I just assumed he would be another 30 or so minutes while he viewed HER real chart and video. Nope...he stepped out grabbed the chart and walked back in. Immediately I was uncomfortable. He thumbed through the chart like one of those flip books and turned to mom and said...I really think your blockages are in tough spots and since you aren't having pain right now...we will treat you with medicines and have you lose a little weight and as much as a year or so we will do the surgery. WHAT??? WHAT???? So send her home and let her have a heart attack and permanently damage her heart and then do surgery. I was so in shock I couldn't speak. He said...do you have any questions and I asked what should she do and he said little as possible and eat healthy. I asked about cardiac rehab and he said sure...not giving us any info, nothing. I am not doctor, but something just didn't add up. 2 weeks ago, he was fresh and responsive, on task and very attentive. Today he was distracted, confused, short, standing at the door with his hand on the knob...ready to go - just not the doctor she saw 2 weeks ago. I was upset, my dad was...mom still shouting joy. Ohh and he said they would treat her with meds...he gave her NOTHING. He didn't say to follow up with anyone, he didn't have anything to say. When I asked him if she started having pain...he said call me then. He did say she could have a heart attack tonight without surgery or tomorrow during surgery - so confused!

I told my dad we were going straight to Dr. Hearon's office, her long time cardiologist who referred her. (I used to work there.) We walk in and we ask to see him and he was at the other hospital, but Judy said she would get the triage nurse to come talk to us. The triage nurse came out...I didn't know her so we started back to a room and there came Suzanne. I walked over to hug her, and there came Lisa and Justin the PA's and there was Dr. Steg and Dr. Lomboy, Margo. Got lots of hugs :) Anyways - they asked why I was there and I told them to make an appt with Dr. Hearon to discuss our issues with Dr. Carlton. They asked what...and I told them. They are completely on computers so Justin - while we were talking - pulled up moms cath films and showed them to Dr. Steg. I could see the look on his face, he gave this ohh my Gosh look at the other doc and the PA's. He said this isn't the first time, and you are sure that he said she wasn't going to have surgery. I said YES...that is why we are so confused. He had Lisa to page Dr. Hearon and while we were waiting he said they could refer us to Winston Salem or use a partner at Dr. Carltons firm...the only cardio/thoracic surgeons in the area. I told him we would discuss that with Dr. Hearon. He apologized for all of that and I stood there with Lisa while I was waiting on Dr. Hearon. She said Dr. Carlton was going through something and has been distracted...I said that I hated he was having issues, but truthfully...I don't care! He is a doctor and when he walks in that room he should be 100% thinking about my mom. Not his wife, his other patients, surgery tomorrow or his taxes...MY MOM! She said I was right. Dr. Hearon wasn't available so we scheduled an appointment to talk to him on Wednesday. They were all sympathetic and unsure really what to say about this situation.

If I missed something and maybe they have re-thought what should be the next course of action...fine, I will trust Dr. Hearon. But, to send her home saying he would have done the surgery that day had it not been for the pneumonia and then 2 weeks later say she shouldn't have it as her body couldn't handle it????

Sorry that was a book...but needless to say I am so confused. But, you know...God might have had this happen because he know that this doctor may have his 'something else' on his mind the day of surgery. God knows...I am glad that he wouldn’t be doing the surgery.

So...we wait, we keep mom chilled and wait. I cant' imagine that this would be the permanent lifestyle for my active mother. I mean she can't walk for more than 20 seconds without being very short of breath. GRRRR...trying so hard to NOT be angry.

So please call if you have any questions. I wanted them to stay here...but they wouldn't....they want to stay at 'their' house until the surgery. I can't say I blame her.

Thank you for giving to the Lord!

Hi there! ;)

I met you at the revival last night at your church and two ladies sang the song, "Thank you for giving to the Lord" and the words were quite moving, especially when thinking of you and the many sacrifices you have given so that others would know our Lord. Here are the words:

I dreamed I went to Heaven, you were there with me.
We walked upon the streets of gold beside the Crystal Sea.
We heard the angels singing, then someone called your name.
You turned and saw this young man, and he was smiling as he came.

He said, "Friend you may not know me now," and then he said,
"But wait -You used to teach my Sunday School, when I was only eight.
And every week you would say a prayer before the class would start.
And one day when you said that prayer,I asked Jesus in my heart."

Chorus
Thank you for giving to the Lord,I am a life that was changed.
Thank you for giving to the Lord,I am so glad you gave.

Then another man stood before you, he said "Remember the time,
A missionary came to your church, His pictures made you cry.
You didn't have much money but you gave it anyway.
Jesus took that gift you gaveAnd that's why I'm in Heaven today"

Chorus

One by one they came, far as your eyes could see.
Each life somehow touched by your generosity.
Little things that you had done, sacrifices that you made,
They were unnoticed on this earth, In Heaven now proclaimed.

Chorus

And I know up in Heaven you're not supposed to cry
But I am almost sure there were tears in your eyes
As Jesus took your hand and you stood before the Lord
He said "My child look around you,Great is your reward."

Chorus

------------------------------------------
Thank YOU for giving to the Lord, *I* am a life that was changed. I love you.

PICTURES!!!

I have posted all the pictures from the weekend HERE: http://ponspics.blogspot.com/

I thought it would be easier just to have them by theirselves. If you want a picture, let me know and I will send you the full sized one.

Love you...good night

Hello there! :)

Hello from Misti and Lily!

I remember when I first learned of you needing heart surgery. My first emotion was panic. Panic because the very thought of losing my dear grandmother sent fear through my body. You've been incredible to me since Lily came along, always giving me encouragement and words of wisdom, and always supportive of me and how I parent.

I love knowing you're there to talk to when a trial comes along and the panic I felt was pure selfishness, I know. You reminded me that when you're not here on earth anymore, that you'll be with Jesus and... well, that's a pretty awesome place to be! But the lump in my throat reminds me to pray, and I pray often for you.

I LOVED hearing Ray laugh out loud when he saw Lily and said she reminded him of you when you were her age. I don't want just memories of you to share with her; I want to hear her own memories her Gran-Gran!!

Speaking of Lily, she calls for me. Please know I cherish you.

Mom's stories about family..

Some of you know she has been writing things about each of us and I am going to start typing them and posting them here. I thought I would take my lap top with me to the hospital and while waiting and watching I could type...and maybe talk someone else that might be there into typing too :)

Mom is writing notes to everyone I think too before her surgery...you know how she is :)

Love you all...

Hope

To Ellen and Eddie...from Ruby

You are both so loved, every day...you are loved. Eddie, I am so sorry I forgot to make you a pot of coffee, I promise I won't forget next time.

Love you so much,

Aunt Ruby

I sent emails...

To a few which will allow you to make a POST instead of a comment. If you would like that option and I haven't emailed you...please let me know.

I will be posting some pics tonight...heading out to Moms right now to clean her house.

Today...

Little background. Mom had stents placed years ago, so she has a history. She sees Dr. Hearon whom she adores. He is her cardiologist, but she feels he is a friend too...he is like that though, you can't help but love him. She saw him in January and her EKG was abnormal and she had a rhythm called Atrial Fibrillation. Dad has it, and part of the treatment is Coumadin. Atrial Fib is where the atrium isn't pumping right and it can lead to a blood clot, so a blood thinner is essential. She was having severe shortness of breath, but attributed it to the A-Fib. Then she went in for a colonoscopy and that night she started having chest pain, lots of shortness of breath but she thought it was the meds they used during the colonoscopy. The next day I called her and she couldn't speak 3 word without taking a deep breath...more like gasping. So, I told her we needed to see Dr. Hearon. She put it off and about 2 hours later Dad called and said mom was worse and he was taking her to the ER at Catawba. So I told him I would meet them there as I was in Hickory already. I get there, and she is in triage. She is ashy and her breathing is so labored. They took her back to get her hooked up on the monitors and oxygen. Her oxygen saturation was 82 on room air and that wasn't good, It should be over 90...really closer to 95-98%. So they put her on the oxygen and it helped some, they bumped it up to 3.5 liters, which is a lot. Then they tried to get the IV...ohh gosh, I know she is a hard stick but I really wanted them to just leave the tray and let me do it. They stuck her at least 5 times. Then they come in and draw blood and cultures which was 3 more sticks. She came back from x-ray and the doctor came in and said she had pneumonia. She wasn't coughing and really hasn't much at all. We asked about the EKG and he said he didn't think her chest pain was coming from her heart, more likely from coughing *DUH - she hadn't been* or from the shortness of breath. So they put her on the medical floor and that night I went home to get some clothes, and ended up spending the night. I get to the hospital early that morning and she looks so much better, but her chest pain is really bad. In the ER they had given her 4 nitro under her tongue and it eased the chest pain. That is usually a big sign that it is heart...but the ER doc didn't think so. Later that morning Dr. McDonald. Dr. Hearon's partner came in and said that since she has a history they would keep her over the weekend and do a heart cath on Monday. I was so relieved, I just had this deep down gut feeling it was heart. So I went home for a bit to get some things and while I was gone her chest pain came back and was really bad. So, they moved her up to the ICU - Telemetry and put a nitro patch on her. She had barely any pain or nausea after that.

I stayed most of the time she was there, but had to go home to shower and stuff. Sunday night, she was ready for the cath but couldn't sleep. They gave her something and finally she fell asleep. That morning they came and got her early early. Dad had just got there and Scott was on interstate. We followed her down and Scott found us, we all ate breakfast while she was getting a catheter shoved up her femoral artery. We sit in the waiting room and a little guy comes out and says PONS...PONS...we stand up and I drop my water and it went everywhere...but I didn't have time to clean it up *OOPS!*. We walk into the cath lab and there laid my sweet mom, smiling and telling me it is all gonna be alright. I told her not to tell me what they found, I wanted to hear it from the doctors. She said ok, but I knew it was either realllllly good or realllllly bad. They had pulled the catheter and that either meant no blockages or more blockages than a stent could fix. If they could have done stents they would have left the catheter in and talked to us and then went on with the stent/angioplasty.

One of Dr. Hearon's other associates did the cath, and he came in...he looked like Screech from Saved by the Bell :). He said the good news is..."Your mom's heart is strong, there is no damage from a heart attack so she is a great candidate for surgery" The bad news he said "She has at the least 4 major blockages that will need bypassed." My heart sank, I knew it could be that bad...but hoped, prayed it wouldn't be. I didn't cry then, I talked to mom told her it would be fine and that I loved her. We all stepped out after kissing her sweet cheeks and forehead and in the hall I all but fell into Scott's arms. This was going to be so hard on her. But she is tough Scott said...she will do fine. God will get her through this! *SUPER SWEET HUSBAND!

We all get up to her room and I start making the calls. Knowing all her brothers would get upset if I didn't call. I called my brothers as well. Dad called Todd I think. The family knew, and now was the hard part waiting to talk to the surgeon. And of course he came while I was out. But, because of the pneumonia they would send her home to get over it and then schedule her surgery. She is over it now, and feels pretty good. Gets tired easily, but that is expected.She had been staying with me, but she really wanted to spend some time with Ellen and Eddie so she went home on Friday and is staying until her surgery as long she she doesn't do too much.

She loves her house I know, but after the surgery she is staying with me for as long as she needs.

I just talked to her and she sounds pretty good. The weekend was long but not long enough I don't think. She had all her family around her. Eddie and Ellen came in to see her, which she would have been happy to have had them to herself, but I must admit...I used them as a guise to have a dinner and invite all her brothers and family. I know that her brothers would want to see Eddie and Ellen, their niece and nephew...but I also know how much her tender hearted brothers would love to see their sister. They all know the trials that are around the corner for her, and boy oh boy do they love their sister.

I get to moms and there is Eddie and Ellen and as I walk in, even though we hadn't seen each other really in 10+ years - there was no awkwardness and I felt like we had spoken just recently. That is how it is supposed to be with families. We all hugged and I had made them a family picture album and gave that to them and I really think they loved it!

We all cooked and was ready for people to start showing up and first in was Elmer and Louise. Lori was with them and always when mom sees Lori her eyes light up. Then came Ed and Gladys with their basket of food. Lastly came Ray and Nancy and they brought Jay and his daughter Sarah...boy she has grown!

I think they all cried and hugged, Ellen and Eddie really got a family gathering worth remembering I think. I sat back a few times and watched my family smiling and laughing and I wondered why we have never really done this before. The highlight of the night was yet to come though. After a great meal, we all went out on the porch and there was Gary...one of many men Mom wants to set Ellen up with *smiles*. He was hooking up his banjo, Todd and Johnny had their guitars in hand tuning and pickin a little. Little John was on the drum and then I look and there is Eddie with his guitar...I didn't know he played. They all start pickin' and grinnin' (literally) I don't think there was a minute that nearly everyone wasn't smiling. I hate Ray left early he would have played with them I am sure. But Elmer and Ed sat back and enjoyed the show I think. Johnny and Todd were singing then I step our for a minute and I hear someone singing Amazing Grace and it is sooooo beautiful, it was Ellen...I knew she could sing, but hadn't heard her in a long time. Her mom sang at my wedding, her mom had the most beautiful voice. But, I could close my eyes and hear Audrey in her voice. It was so soothing to the soul. She sang a couple others and then we all kind of started singing...it was the best of times.

We stayed singing a long time, it ended up just being Johnny, Little John, Ellen, Eddy and me...mom was in and out but most had left. But this was some of the best, we all kinda let go and just sang whatever. Ellen and Johnny and I would switch off singing lead and harmony...was so much fun.

Ellen and Eddie stayed at moms and Sunday we all went to church and Ellen sang and Eddie played the guitar for her. It was beautiful. We came back to moms and ate lunch and talked and talked. It felt so good. I know mom hated to see them go, but we know they had to.

There won't be another 10 years before seeing them again. Lori is already wanting to have a get together at their house, and I can't wait!

I will post as often as I can what is going on with her. I don't have to tell you what kind of woman my sweet sweet momma is. But if you want to tell others that might read this what you think about her...please do. I am sure that will bless her heart and I know it will mine.

She loves her family so much, she never meets a stranger and will show so much love to anyone who needs it.

Love you all too...

Hope