100% Update: Evening News Update (#1)

Monday, October 27, 2008

Dad went for a ride a ride in a wheelchair today and did better than this guy. This evening, we have some good news and some (... have not decided how to classify it ... ) news!

1. Good news: Dad had his first shower since September 19, 2008. O-Therapy and Mom took Dad down to the 4th Floor for a shower. He's not sure how he liked it because of all the energy it took.
2. Other news: Dr. EyeGal finally returned to see the EyeJunk in Dad's right eye. It has gotten worse. EyeGal recommends immediate surgery to clean the EyeJunk and insert a stitch to help with the closing of the eye. Dr. Rehab wanted to wait for the surgery for a little more recovery time, but EyeGal says it is not elective ... it must happen soon in order to save the sight in Dad's right eye. ( ... Now we are back to some intense prayer requests ... let's warm up those prayer-chain-engines ... ready, set, go! ... )

Given the above, there's nothing more important to report. Mom is scared about surgery; Dad is confident that Jesus is still Lord; MyBeloved's fixing pork chops and apple sauce; and I'm just too busy to figure it all out right now.

Talk to you later.

SideBar: Introduction

At SideBar, we tell you what's been going on in our work life as an attorney ... that is, the information we are allowed to tell you ...

Today's SideBar lets you learn about the eating habits of an attorney during trial. Here's a look at the menu:

5:00am Wake-up
7:00am Continue trial prep
8:30am Breakfast -- NOTHING
9:00am Trial
12:05pm Lunch -- NOTHING
1:00pm Trial
5:00pm Adjourn
6:00pm Dinner -- NOTHING
9:30pm Snack: 12 double cheeseburgers, 5 pieces of chicken, 4 large salads ( ... I'm on a diet ...), 7 small fries ( ... again, I'm on a diet ...), 12 cookies.

I joke ...

Wanna Go Phishing?

I received an email last week at the G&G address from Sister xx. She married Mr. XX, who worked with the Kuwait embassy for nine years before he died in 2006. They were married for eleven years. He died after a brief illness that lasted for only four days. Before his death, they were both born again Christians.

Since his death, Sister xx decided not to remarry. According to her email, "When my late husband was alive, he deposited the sum of ($2.600.000.00) Two million six hundred thousand dollar in a Bank in Abidjan (Cote D'Ivoire). Presently, this money is still in the Bank. Recently, my doctor says that I will not last long due to my cancer problem."

I think Sister xx needs our help at G&G getting the money out of Kuwait. And all we have to is give her an American bank account number and the money can be transferred. Anyone wanna help?

__________________

World,

If you received the same letter from Sister xx, or one like this letter, then you will get a chuckle. ( ... G&G has now been officially phished ... but we shan't take the bait! ... ) If you have no clue what we are talking, laugh anyway and click here.

Self.

Rooting for Ray (#14)

If you are "Rooting for Ray" then send us your picture here. Today's FeaturedFoto comes to us from the RoyalCamp Family ... Yes, you've met the before. If you've never met them, then we are sure that you met someone like them ... PrincessCamp, Sir CoolBeans, PrincessPea, and SwordPlay ... they love camping ... in their air-conditioned camper! Rumor has it that they even pack the ice chest with Evian ice cubes. We love spending time with them in the woods ... we eat ... we dance ... we laugh ... we cry ... and then we return to our tent ...

Please send your "Rooting for Ray" pictures here.
Whether you are family, friend, or perfect stranger,
we want to hear (and see) from you!

Dear World

You are creatures of habit ... well, at least a majority of you are. I can tell what days of the week that you are bored at work ( ... and then we get a lot of traffic here at G&G ... ) and I can tell when you are swamped ( ... and then things are a little slow ... ). I can even tell what you are doing on weekends ... sometimes ... and what you are not doing.

I write this morning to let you know that we are going to have to do things a little different around here for about a week. We will still play games and have some fun. We will still "Root for Ray" ... as long as you keep sending me pics. We may share with you some of my sleep deprived thoughts, or perhaps Mom may share some of her blessings.

But we are going to make two temporary changes, one of which I will need help from you. Here they are:

1. Medical Updates: Will now be in the evening ... sorry I can't object, ask questions, and zealously represent if I am pounding away at the keyboard about Nurse PerfectPosture getting into a fight with Technician AlwaysLate about AlwaysLate being always late.


2. Guest Contributors: You can help by sending me your prayers for Dad, thoughts about what you have learned the past few weeks, musings about randomness, memories about Dad, or anything else that you think we will enjoy here at G&G. For example, Bubbles left us a song that she wrote for Dad. ( ... big sigh, little tear ... ). Or PrayerChair put together a fantastic, heart-warming, amazing PicBook for Dad ( ... and I am still trying to figure out how to share that with you all ... ). If you have something for us, to share with the World, let us know here.

Thanks for your love, help and understanding.

Self.

100% Update: Multiple Choice

Sunday, October 26, 2008

1. During the day, Dad felt ...

a. Okay

b. Okay

c. Okay

d. Okay

2. For lunch, Dad ate ...

a. SmashedChikin

b. Green beans

c. SmashedSweetTaters

d. AppleSauce

e. All of the above

3. For dinner, Dad ate ...

a. Meatloaf

b. SmashedTaters

c. Pulverized Green Beans

d. PureedPeaches

e. All of the above

4. This afternoon, Dad ...

a. Sat in the chair

b. Sat in the chair

c. Sat in the chair

d. Sat in the chair

5. Tonight, Dad needs your prayers for ...

a. Comfort from pain

b. Sleep

c. A and B

d. None of the above

Aaaaahhhhhhhhhhh ... Across the USA

I got a chuckle from ChellySox's email last week when she said that her peeps in CA, NJ, GA and VA were praying for Dad. Like our friend CrazyDean, I started to rattle off a few more states in which I know people are praying for Dad. Let's start from the beginning:

Alabama Arizona Arkansas California Connecticut District of Columbia Florida Georgia Kentucky Louisiana Maryland Minnesota New Jersey New Mexico New York Oklahoma Pennsylvania Puerto Rico South Carolina Tennessee Texas Virginia Wisconsin

Any others? If so, add them below. Aaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhh ...

100% Update: Meet the Press

As Dad settles in to Meet the Press [... my favorite show ... my favorite FamilyMan / PoliticoMan ... I really miss Tim ... ], let me tell you how his night went:

• Nurse Romance back for night # 2, along with Technician HighSchool ... rumor has it that HighSchool single-handedly handled all 17 rooms last night ... Good job, man! [Note to SelectAdmin: Coaches don't send 1 player on the field to play the football game, why would you?]
• Dad was restless during normal times 10:00pm to 2:00am, and caught some ZZZZZZs from 2:00am to 5:30am.
• This morning, he has already ate some eggs and sat in his chair for 2 hours. Back to sleep. Rough life. (... I'm joking ... it's okay to joke every now and then ... he does it to me ... )

Rooting for Ray (#13)

If you are "Rooting for Ray" then send us your picture here. Today's FeaturedFoto comes from Pastor LittleBabies, who along with his little babies, is rejoicing in the pulpit. [... In fact, he's probably getting ready for his SundaySpeech right now ... ] LittleBabies comes by to say hello to Dad every couple of days ... Dad thanks you ... and so do we!

Please send your "Rooting for Ray" pictures here.
Whether you are family, friend, or perfect stranger,
we want to hear (and see) from you!

100% Update: Objection!

Saturday, October 25, 2008

As I prepare for my week-long trial, Dad sat in his own witness chair this afternoon for about 2.5 hours. Weekends at TheSelect are definitely interesting ... not alot of rehab going on, but I did see a grumpy old man in his drawers ( ... i.v. thingy in tow ... ) yelling at Nurse Nashville about something ( ... yep ... that's random ... ) Here is a short update:

• Nurse Fabulous is back for the first time in about a week ... She says that Dad looks great. ( ... kinda like losing 10 pounds and someone you have not seen in months notices the loss ... you may not notice, but they do ... )
• R-Therapy RedWisdom is back and busy ... I think they are short on staff today ... Technician Pebbles ... she's new to us ... was swamped too. In other words, Mom and Dad did most of their rehabbing together today!
• Many visitors today! Let's see if I get this right: MusicMom, HeadSong, PondLover, TheMom, Pastor QuietSoul, TuesdayMorrie, MisterMow, Mom'sLad and StrawberryMom. [... If I forgot you, then sorry. I wasn't there! I was working! But thanks for stopping by to see Dad ... ]

I know that one of Dad's largest "unknowns" right now is the damage caused by the EyeJunk in his right eye. He has extreme pain and he cannot see. We need more aggressive eye care. We need to pray that eye back to beating like his heart ... back to breathing like his lungs ... back to walking like his legs.

Just a Test

Dad cannot see beyond the reach of his face. Our little ChairBed sits about 5-6 feet from Dad's bed. As I settled in last night, I wanted to assure Dad that somebody was always by his side.

"Dad, I am sitting right next to you, okay?"

"Okay..."

"And I want you to raise your hand if you need anything. I know you can't see me all the time, but I want you to know I am right there. Okay? Just raise you hand if you need me."

As I walk around his bed to my bed, Dad's hand shoots up. I walk quickly to the other side.

"What do you need?"

"Just testing."

"Nice. Nice. Nice."

100% Update: Sleepless in Nashville

Some of you may have seen Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan playing lovebirds in Seattle, and we know how they feel. Last night, we were sleepless in Nashville ... except I'm talking about me and MyBeloved ( ... me at the hospital ... MyBeloved with the newborn ... ), while Dad .... SLEPT ALL NIGHT (... subject, of course, to eye drops every hour and a groan here and there ... ). Here's the update:

• Technician Spirits likes Dad. (... not likes-him-like-him, but just likes him ...) We like her, too. Nurse Romance, who is rumored to have induced a man's marriage proposal in less than 60 seconds, was on top of her game. Dr. EyeGal says drops every hour ... Romance was there every hour, on the hour. R-Therapy Mouse 2.0 was ... you know ... in and out like a ... mouse.


• Dad slept during most of the above.


• Dr. Rehab 3.0 was as quick as Romance's marriage proposal ... in and out in less than 60 seconds ... I guess that's why they call it "rounds" ... because they only stay as long as the second hand goes round the clock once!

5 Pictures = 5000 Words = 100 Feet

I told you I would tell you about the great achievement Dad made yesterday. Didn't you believe me? Well, here ... there are 5 steps to this journey ...

1. Exit room.
2. Turn right.
3. Go to end of hall.
4. Take break.
5. Back to room.

The pictures are not even the best part. The best part was the huge crowd of doctors, nurses, technicians, physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, equipment checker dudes, cleaning ladies, and other people CHEERING CHEERING CHEERING as Dad walked down the hallway. Mom overheard one nurse calling another floor, "Pastor Ray is walking. Come quick!"

Return Them ...

Friday, October 24, 2008

Mom was praying for Dad this evening. Then she prayed for all the HurtOnes that we have met over the last few weeks ... Sk8ter, MotorLife, FarmFam, the Screamer, LonelyGuy's dad, and many others. What caught my attention was Mom's statement ... return them ...

Return them ... to their families.

Return them ... to their homes.

Return them ... to their churches.

Return them ... to their jobs.

Return them ... to their schools.

Father in Heaven .... return them ...

100% Update: Years of Prayer

Dr. Rehab 1.0 came into the room earlier today. LogicLove was sitting with Dad, while Mom was eating lunch with BG a/k/a CountryClub ( ... despite the name ... BG is nowhere near snooty ... ).

Dr. Rehab noticed that Dad was talking without his TalkPlug and he commented, "Pastor Ray, You should't be able to talk without your TalkPlug. That's a really good sign. That means your lungs are strong. That must come from all the years of preaching."

Yoda-voiced Dad replied, "No ... that's from all the years of praying ..."

Amen, Dad. Here's an update:

1. Dad had a very long ... (wait) ... (wait) ... (wait) ... (wait) ... walk earlier today. [ ... You thought I was going to say, "day", huh?... ] It was a long walk and we have pictures! Be patient. (Eph 4:2)
2. Two more meals today.
3. Right eye continues to cause extreme pain.
4. Dad hangs out with OakTree and OakTreeWife (... thanks for the BBQ sammich ...)
5. Nurse SameShoes ... because she has walked in the same shoes as Dad ... was amazing today. SameShoes, we could feel your pain, joy and full recovery with each careful touch and with each task you carried out. Thanks. ( ... yet another big sigh, little tear ...)

We Miss You, Too!

ChellySox ... the sister I always wanted, but never had ... just sent this note of encouragement. If you are new here, Chelly's description of G&G gives you a flav' of why Dad is so popular all over the country ... and the World.

Your website is truly something special. The reason you have over 1000 visits a day is that you’ve invited the world to share in your personal/painful/spiritual journey in a very intimate way. We’re all touched by the ups and downs, we want Ray to fight and fight hard, but we know his journey is painful and fraught with risk because of your loving but frank detail.

Of course, like all your friends I’m sure - I worry about you – I hope you’re holding up okay… holding up your whole entire family. It must be so surreal for you to go to bed every night trying to take in all that has happened on each particular day, all
that you’ve witnessed with your dad’s recovery, and all the newness that comes from a newborn child; trying to be a dad, husband, son, brother, oh yeah, lawyer.

I have my peeps in San Francisco (CA), Ridgewood (NJ), Atlanta (GA) and all over NoVA praying for your Dad. He’s on prayer chains and novenas. We dedicated last Sunday’s mass to Pastor Ray. God is working!!!

Chelly, we are doing great ... but really, really tired. MyBeloved is the the most amazing woman, but you already know that. She is "growing and growing" like the rest of us. Thanks for the note. Thanks for sending Dad to California, New Jersey and Georgia.

The Contest ... Logo #7

Yep. They are still coming in ... so that means the logo contest is still open. Logo #7 comes from from OldSkool and her son, Mr.Jewels, who want the World to keep praying for Dad:

Remember, you can purchase a t-shirt or other item here.

100% Update: QuikTrip

Just like MyBeloved loves QuikTrip back in OkieLand,* you will have to love this short update:

• Dad was restless until about 1:00am last night. He and P-Pet (... go figure ...) tried to watch television.
• Dad slept from 1:00am until this morning.
• Dad had extreme chest pain this morning ... followed by round of HeartCheck-Ups, including an EKG ... Result = pain due to his broken ribs and not broken heart.
• Right eye seems like it is getting worse.
• Dad tried to eat scrambled eggs, AppleSauce, and PorkPuree (...ground up sausage ...), but not much luck eating.

Too busy to chat. TTY.
_____________

*Translated: My wife LOVES, LOVES, LOVES this convenience store in Oklahoma because of the awesome ice, cheap eats and clean restrooms.

Pray for MorningSmile

I just received an urgent email from ChellySox, who received an email from NaNa, who sent a prayer request for MorningSmile ... a wonderful greeter at my prior LawFirm. MorningSmile would start the LawFirm engine running in the mornings, joyfully great any visitor, and pass on phone calls to the right person. Here's the scoop:

MorningSmile is going to have surgery tomorrow afternoon at TheTown Hospital. To be brief, she has been experiencing over the last couple of weeks, or perhaps longer, numbness in her hands, stiffness in her neck and shoulders, unstable when walking, and a number of other symptoms ... She has three vertebras lying on her spine; it actually has pushed her spine inward. There is no fluid going through her spine. The surgery will entail removing the three vertebras and they will be replaced by metal plates. ... There is a possibility that she will not regain 100% use of her left leg. Please keep MorningSmile in your prayers.

We will, NaNa ... we will! So will the World.

Mom Speaks: Blessing of Hands

You have all heard about our little corner near Rhea Chapel. Well, the Sunday before we were moved to Select Speciality Hospital, Donna (Ray's sister) and I were roosting for a nap. As we were "people watching," two chaplins entered the chapel.

Shortly thereafter, we heard an announcement over the PA system that a service ... "Blessing of Hands" ... would begin in about 1/2 hour. Since we has missed the Sunday morning worship service, we rejoiced at the opportunity to gather with others to worship our Father in Heaven.

We walked into the chapel and quietly sat down. We observed Chaplin1 and Chaplin2 set a beautiful porcelain bowl on the altar and proceed to stand behind the altar. Chaplin2 stood to the side with a thick white towel in his hand. Chaplin1 invited everyone to individually join them at the front.

I quietly moved forward. Chaplin1 asked if me worked at the hospital or if I was a family member or friend of someone in the hospital. "My husband, a pastor, is in the trauma unit," I quietly answered. She then gently took both of my hands, placed them in the warm water, and prayed over them.


Prayers were lifted for Pastor Ray ... who, by that time, Chaplin1 had heard about from others. She then prayed that God would bless my hands and use them to bring comfort to Ray as I cared for him. She prayed that God would use me and my hands to bring comfort to all those I crossed in the hospital. She gently lifted my hand of the "life restoring, living water" and placed them in the towel being held by Chaplin2.

I gently dried my hand and prayed for God to strengthen me as I cared for Ray. He also prayed for a special healing. I quietly returned to my seat in the chapel, as family members and employees in the hospital silently took their turn at the altar to have their hands blessed.

Rooting for Ray (#12)

If you are "Rooting for Ray" then send us your picture here. Today's FeaturedFoto comes from JrKatz and JrDrama. Something about the look on their faces tells me that they are "Rooting for Trouble" ... Thanks for your rooting for Dad .... But please stay outta trouble ... WE LOVE YOU!

P.S. Now that you are on the Internets for the World to see, you can send the G&G link to all of your friends. You're famous!!!

Please send your "Rooting for Ray" pictures here.

Whether you are family, friend, or perfect stranger,

we want to hear (and see) from you!

Wall o' MagLites

Thursday, October 23, 2008

Remember, I told you this morning that Dad said something funny about MagLite? First, a couple of things: (1) MagLite, who does not like to be called the "other" Mom, is called MagLite because she runs a magazine for God = MagLite; (2) MagLite is not to be confused with this Guy's random collection ... Wall o' Maglites.


Now that we have that settled, here's what happened last night. Dad was Yoda-voiced-chatting with VillageSis ...

Dad: I need to talk to Pat's friend.

VS: Who?

Dad: I need to talk to Pat's friend. I am so sorry. I feel so bad.

VS: Who are you talking about?

Dad: Pat's friend ...

VS: Are you talking about MagLite?

Dad: Yes. I need to talk to her right now. I made fun of her and I am sorry. Find her. It's in the magazine.

VS: What magazine?

Dad: The church magazine! Find it now! [Editorial Note: Dad is not a mean dude ... he is just a little misguided right now.]

VS: There's no magazine here. ( ... VS looks for magazine ... finds it ... ) Oh, here it is. Do you want me to read it to you?

Dad: Yes.

VS: Would you like to read it.

Dad: Sure. ( ... looks hard ... reads a few words from the title ... cannot read much more ... )

________________

Dear MagLite, if Dad made fun of you, he's sorry. He's messed up right now, but you understand that, right? All our love, G&G.

100% Update: Walker, Tennessee Pastor

This is no ordinary show. This is not Walker, Texas Ranger. This is:

Walker, Tennessee Pastor

That's right. Dad walked down the hallway ... about 25 feet ... with Tiny right behind him. Who says there's no such things as miracles? [... Dad's improving so fast I can't even keep up ... But remember, he is in so much pain that his prayers turn to cries most of the time ... Keep pounding with those prayers! ]

100% Update: "I Won't ..."

Dad: "Pat, don't leave me ..."

Mom: "I am not going anywhere. I am here all the time."

Dad: "Not now. I'm talking about ... Don't leave me because I'm messed up."

Mom: "I won't leave you ... (pause) ... Ray, don't ever leave me because I'm messed up."

Dad: "... I won't ... (smiles like Beast) ... I won't ..."

_________________

While Mom and Dad were playing Don't Leave Me, you and I were working hard. Here is today's update:

• Great RehabTeam today: Nurse Mt. Pleasant, R-Therapy TruSmile, and Technician ColdPlay are working well together. We wish we could have this team on a regular basis. Where do we place our order?
• Dad's EyeJunk in this right viewer appears to be getting worse. Dr. EyeGal came by yesterday and upped Dad's eye drops ... We need some more testing, Folks!
• RehabRounds, kinda like TraumaRounds at the the "other" place, occurred this morning. Mom voiced her concern about Dad's pain management and all appeared to agree to aggressively make some changes. We'll see?!?!?!?!
• P-Therapy Lil'Confidence [ ... I don't like that name. We said Lil'Confidence because she is little, but really confident ... However, it reads like she has little confidence ... Thus, our objection. Motion to rename you LittleBruiser. Is there a second? Second, says Mom. All in favor? Opposed? Ayes seem to have it ... Welcome to your new name LittleBruiser ...] and Technician Tiny moved their physical therapy sessions to the afternoon with the hopes of Dad sleeping in the night.

Mom just called. Dad has extreme pain in his eye and tailbone. Let's pray for those ... please?

A Little Help, Please?

There is a lot going on here at G&G and our sister site, Pound a Pastor ... and we need a little help. Can you handle a 'puter? ( ...or do you even know what we mean when we say 'puter? ...) Have you used Blogger or Blogspot or WordPress? Can you write? Do you delight in randomness? Do you have some extra time on your hands?

If so, send us a note. We need a little assistance keeping up with e-mails, prayers and posts. We have an immediate need for help with Pounding ... we would love to hear from you.

This Storm

If you have time, listen to this song forwarded to us by Sam-Ant-Ha!, who appears to get up every morning to check out G&G. Our friend says:

I continue to keep up w/ Ray & Pat through your blog site daily. This morning I read your late night posts (I'm much more of an early bird than a night owl!) And was reminded of this song - you may be familiar w/ it, it's a few years old - Casting Crowns "Praise You in This Storm" It's such a beautiful testament and in a way what you're all already doing...I hope it brings some hope.

Praying Daily, Sam-Ant-Ha!

Thanks for the nice reminder. In fact, Dad says it all the time ... "I will praise the Lord always ... in spite of my circumstances!"

Rooting for Ray (#11)

If you are "Rooting for Ray" ... then send us your pic. Today's FeaturedFoto is from the PrunusFam ... Apparently, they have a dog of their own. Perhaps Dad and PrunusDog can go running after some sheep when he gets better.

Please send your "Rooting for Ray" pictures here.
Whether you are family, friend, or perfect stranger,
we want to hear (and see) from you!

ATTN: Nurse RubySlippers

If you are RubySlippers, or if you personally know RubySlippers, please contact us here, or here, or here.

Mom needs to talk to you STAT. (... Like that? I said, "STAT"... like you called Dad "Stat Album" ...)

Dad Cries for You (...Yes, You, World...)

Photo: "Earth Tear" www.macjr.com

Dad and VillageSis were talking last night. Here's what happened:

Dad: (... in Yoda voice ...) Come here a second. Do you know P-Pet?

VS: Yes, he was here yesterday.

Dad: P-Pet said that many people were praying for me. He said that at least 500 people are on the website everyday to see how I am doing. Is that true?

VS: I am not sure about the numbers, but it does not surprise me.

Dad: (...begins to cry...) He also said that someone had prayed for me at the Wailing Wall. Is that true?

VS: Yes, Ray, that's true.

Dad: (...continues to cry... tears of joy, comfort, peace ...)

______________________________

World, we hear and feel your prayers. If you want to know whether they make a difference, surf this site a little and you will find the answer. If you want to know whether Dad knows you are praying for him, see above. If you want to leave another prayer for him, go to Pound a Pastor with Prayer.

Thanks.

Self.

100% Update: Amen

Amen. Amen. Amen.

I know there were at least three of us ( ... no doubt more than that ... ) praying last night for Dad to get some rest ( ... actually some sleep ... ). I am happy please to report:

PRAYERS ANSWERED!

VillageSis (one of Mom's closest friends in proximity, as well as, in heart) played WatchDog last night while Mom went home to get some ZZZZZs. Being a nurse herself, VillageSis ran a tight ship last night. Right before I left to be with my FamJam, we prayed over Dad's body and specifically asked for SLEEP for Dad. Later in the night, VillageSis talked to her daughter, VillageSisJr, who reported that she would pray for SLEEP for Dad. That's at least three of us!

When we returned this morning, VillageSis reported the following:

• Dad slept most of the night.
• Dad grunted prayers and mumbled songs through his pain. Rumor has it that he likes the new album by Casting Crowns ... Thanks WordSr!
• Dad and VillageSis argued part of the night. See, Mom: "It's not about you. It's not about your friends. It's about Dad and how much pain he has." He even argues with other lovely ladies.

Something else funny happened last night, but you will have to check back later. It involves MagLite, the one who does not like to be known as the "other" Mom.

100% Update: Feeding Frenzy

Wednesday, October 22, 2008

S-Therapy ... I think I told you ... is in charge of Dad's food. If my food intake were dependent upon how well I spoke, you know that I would be up all night practicing my speech and prayers as well.

Not sure how the day went, but I hear that Dad got to eat real food for a second day in a row. Today's menu included MashedTaters, MashedChikin, carrots, Puddin and iced tea. While I would not normally waste your time with such a petty post (... unless it was about a Zoot Suit and Pickles ... ), I thought you would get a kick out of what S-Therapy had to say:

"Slow down Pastor Ray ...

that's too much food in your mouth ..."

Good thing Dad remembered how to eat! Chomp now. Swallow later.

Randomness (#2): Equipment on the Loose

As you know, we at G&G delight in randomness. Well, this morning was no different. As Mom and I were cleaning up the room, YoungElvis walked into the room with a clipboard and a smile.

"Just checkin', ma'am," he said.

"Checking for what?" Mom asked.

"Checkin' for equipment."

"What kind of equipment?

"All kinds of equipment ... Bed. TV. Chairs. Even the mattress."

"To make sure we don't steal anything?" Mom wonders out loud.

YoungElvis laughs. "No, to make sure our night staff doesn't steal anything." He laughs again.

That's random. An equipment-checker-dude whose sole job is to check for equipment. As we always say, no job is unimportant. Thanks YoungElvis for the chuckle!

Rooting for Ray (#10)

If you are "Rooting for Ray" ... then send us your pic. Today's FeaturedFoto is from Bubbles ... we knew that she would beat her bro, BethelCollegeBoy, to the finish line. [ ... Girls rule ... Boys drool ... ].

Bubbles says: "Here's a picture for you from BCB and me!! Praying for you all. Sorry I haven't been by this week. I've been sick with a bad cough and I want to spread the love but not the germs!! See ya'll soon.Love, Bubbles."

Thanks for the love, not germs. [ ... BTW, this does not excuse BethelBoy on our callout ... ]

Please send your "Rooting for Ray" pictures here.

Whether you are family, friend, or perfect stranger,

we want to hear (and see) from you!

100% Update: A Big Update

I know I said it yesterday, but Dad had one of the worst nights since the accident ( ... or did I say that yesterday? ... I can't remember ...) The days are not so bad, but the nights are terrible. Here's the big update:

• Nurse Mt. Pleasant and Technician ColdPlay helped pacify Dad (and Mom) yesterday and today. They both are so compassionate and interested in Dad's recovery. Thanks.


• Dad got a small trach tube placed in his neck. Next step: either cap the trach or remove the trach.


• Between yesterday, last night and this morning, Dad has been out of bed at least 5 times ... 3 of which with the BedsideThrone ...


• Dad's frustration continues, but so does his prayers ... and I assume so do your prayers.

100% Update: A Small Update

I know I said it yesterday, but Dad had one of the worst nights since the accident ( ... or did I say that yesterday? ... I can't remember ...) The days are not so bad, but the nights are terrible. Here's the small update:

• Nurse Mt. Pleasant and Technician ColdPlay helped pacify Dad (and Mom) yesterday and today. They both are so compassionate and interested in Dad's recovery. Thanks.
• Dad got a small trach tube placed in his neck. Next step: either cap the trach or remove the trach.
• Between yesterday, last night and this morning, Dad has been out of bed at least 5 times ... 3 of which with the BedsideThrone ...
• Dad's frustration continues, but so does his prayers ... and I assume so do your prayers.

SheepDog and Lost Sheep Re-Unite!

I am not talking about Dad ... yet ... that will happen one day. I am talking about the SheepDog and Lost Sheep stuffed animals.




Thanks to BookWorm, who sent in a miniature sheepdog ( ... we will call him Lil' SheepDog ... ) to watch over the little lost sheep. BookWorm writes:

I had done some research on the internet looking for a stuffed sheepdog. Who better to watch over Pastor Ray? I found this one online, but assumed I wouldn't be able to find it here. I found a shop, they carried the Gund brand, found the stuffed animals. They won't have a sheepdog, I thought. As the shelves came into view, there he was, front and center, waiting to be sent to watch over our dear Pastor Ray. I'm sure he will be faithful and true.... Much love, BookWorm.

Now that Lil' SheepDog is on the watch, Dad can get some sleep. Thanks again BW!

X Marks the Spot

In case you were wondering what Dad's "game plan" from the other day looks like, I snuck into his room and took some pictures of the secret recipe to recovery. "X" means that he has accomplished that goal. Who knew that Dad was TypeA?

Let's add some more to Dad's list while he is sleeping. Can you help me think of any?

16. Be nicer to Mom

17. Recite the Greek alphabet backwards three times

18. Write the entire Psalm 23 on a grain of rice

19. Sign up to play Santa in the Holiday Party at Pastor Quick's church

20. See #16 again.

21. [ ... use the comments below to add your ideas ...]

A Nugget for Men

Tuesday, October 21, 2008

"Communication with a woman

begins with a word, not a touch."

(MyBeloved, 10/2008)

________________________

I wish I could take credit for this nugget of truth, but I cannot. I wish I had known about this nugget of truth years ago, but I did not. I wish Dad knew about this nugget of truth today, but he did not.

I am probably the last person in the world who should be delivering this message ... but I have no choice. Hopefully, Men all around the World, you will hear these words and file them away for safe-keeping. Let's show you how I got here ...

Self's Problem: I came home a couple of weeks ago ... fully exhausted ... and I just wanted to find my crib for some sleep. But MyBeloved was equally exhausted ... having lived like a SingleMom for the past few weeks. Knowing that we had not talked (other than a phone call here and a phone call there), I grabbed MyBeloved's hand and escorted ( ... You like that word? "ESCORTED" ... it's a very colorful word ... ) her to the couch. I sat down next to her. With absolutely no words coming out of my mouth, I began to talk to her by giving her a back rub. She probably could have used the back rub, but equally clear was the fact that I had not verbally and personally spoke to her in about a week. When she stopped me, I looked dazed. She said, "Sweetie ... Communication with a woman begins with a word, not a touch." Ouch.

Dad's Problem: Dad (or his evil, brain-bruised nemesis "daD") was very, very grumpy to Mom today ... more than once. I've heard stories of brain injured patients and changed personalities, but he was simply "not nice." Mom even beckoned me from work to talk some sense into daD. When I got there, I saw the verbal bruises all over Mom. After escorting ( ... There's that word again ... ) Mom out of the room, I said, "daD ... Communication with a woman begins with a word, not a touch."

The Nugget: As I sat there this afternoon talking to daD and myself, I really began to realize what power we husbands have to either build-up or tear-down our spouses ... even if we are stuck in hospital bed. My first lesson was: use words first, then hug second. My second lesson was: when I use my words, choose them wisely. Kinda like that tube of toothpaste, once the words come out of my mouth, they can't go back in ... so make sure they are building-up words and not the other kind. There's your nugget, Men.

100% Update: Pain the Neck

No, I am not talking about TheRunts ( ... my five beautiful kids ... ). I am talking about the NeckWrap ( ... neck immobilizer ... ) that Dad has been sportin' for the past month. According to Dad, it is one of the most frustrating parts of his condition.

Not anymore!

Dr. Rehab contacted Dr. BoneFixer over at the TraumaCondo earlier today. Assessment was done. Judgments were made. NeckWrap removed! PTL ...

100% Update: A World of Medicines

Since going into the hospital, Dad has been on many different medications. Some of them include: BrainCalmJuice (to lower the intra cranial pressure); NoHurtJuice (to take away the pain); TempJuice (to lower a fever); HeadCalmJuice (to alleviate the headache); HeadPainFunkyJuice (kinda like HeadCalmJuice, but with a sedation twist); and Milk of Amensia (quick acting sedative).

Well, last night Dad tried a new one called ... Anti-FunkJuice, which was supposed to target his anxiety. Only, instead of targeting the anxiety, it created a few characters in the middle of the night who liked to converse with Dad. That's right, Dad was talking to the "children" and yelling at them to "stop at the stop sign!" Here's the update:

1. Very, very, very restless night. Perhaps one of the worst ones since Dad moved to TheSelect.


2. Low-grade fever throughout the night ... more TempJuice.

We are at the point where Dad is entirely frustrated with his situation. He prays constantly, but also getting upset more often. He thinks Mom doesn't like him. We need your help ... please send a "Rooting for Ray" picture. We print them out for Dad so that he can see them. Also, we need your prayers for ...

REST

REST

REST

I Had a Dream ... (#2)

... that I was standing on top of a mountain, wearing a red zoot-suit, and there were thousands of kids (... all shapes, sizes, and colors ...) throwing little pickles at me!

Photo: (not so) Urban Hennery

Have you ever had that dream?

No?

Me neither ...

Rooting for Ray (#9)

If you are "Rooting for Ray" ... then send us your pic. Today's FeaturedFoto is from ... none other than ... yes ... it's them ... PrayerWarrior1 and PrayerWarriorToo (right to left) ... and do they have a way with words. They call themselves "Two Ray Rooters" ... nice.

Please send your "Rooting for Ray" pictures here.
Whether you are family, friend, or perfect stranger,
we want to hear (and see) from you!

..............................

BTW, still no word from BethelCollegeBoy on our callout ... he must be studying hard ... You know, after 16.5 years of invititation, Oprah finally went on Letterman. Hope it doesn't take that long to get a picture from BethelBoy.

Does Prayer Work?

Monday, October 20, 2008

This weekend has taken a real toll on my mind. I am in a fog ... like Dad. I am trying to get back to some resemblance of a working schedule (... not because I want to, but because I have to ...), I miss MyBeloved and TheRunts terribly, and yet I don't feel I have enough time with Dad.

How can that possibly make sense? I am willing to bet that it makes sense for at least 68.3% of you out there. ( ... Remember, I delight in randomness ... and 68.3% is a random number ...) Anyway, I just wanted to share with you two amazing EyeOpens ... an event or moment that opens your eyes to some clearer understanding of ... of ... of whatever.

Just as I was thinking about Dad's prayers, my prayers, and your prayers this weekend, I began reading a note from my friend Oz. ( ... BTW, are you as stumped by Dad's prayers (1, 2, 3) as I am? That guy is out of this world. He has been preaching about it for years, but when the true test comes, he lives it too! I'm still blown away ... )

So EyeOpen #1 happens when Oz says to me ... "Prayer does not fit us for the greater work; prayer is the greater work." He continues:

Prayer is the battle; it is a matter of indifference where you are. Whichever way God engineers circumstances, the duty is to pray. Never allow the thought - "I am of no use where I am;" because you certainly can be of no use where you are not. Wherever God has dumped you down in circumstances pray, [spontaneously cry out] to Him all the time. "Whatsoever ye ask in My name, that will I do." We won't pray unless we get thrills, that is the intensest form of spiritual selfishness. We have to labour along the line of God's direction, and He says pray. "Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that He will send forth labourers into His harvest." 10/17

I could leave this post here, without any further commentary, but it gets better ... enter EyeOpen #2 ... I received an email last night that provides much more clarity on this issue of prayer. Ms. Infantry, who I wrote about earlier, sent this message to millions of people ( ... well maybe not that many ...):

To my church family:

We hear names on our church prayer list - some we know, and others we pray for simply because they are God's children. Ever wonder if the prayers are helpful in a tangible way? Really want to know what happens when God's people pray without ceasing? Here's your chance to PRAY and to read about the progress from hurt to healing of one powerful man of God....

Ray DeVries, Pastor at Woodbine Cumberland Presbyterian Church was in a life-altering car accident in September. ... His son's blog sites catalogue his daily progress, family stories and most of all the Power of Prayer minute by minute in this man's life. It's powerful, witty and difficult to read with "secular eyes" ... [Pastor Ray] considers this spiritual warfare and is determined to be an overcomer....

What you can do: Watch prayer in action - read the blog sites often for updates on Pastor Ray's progress in the form of daily miracles. www.growingandgrowing.com

Leave a prayer at: www.poundapastor.blogspot.com They are expectantly setting a goal of 1,000 prayers. Forward this to those interested in praying, or to those whose lives may be changed by the witness of God's love and provision.

Peace and Love,
Ms. Infantry

I remain speechless at this point. To all the G&G readers, I think Oz and Ms. Infantry have been working together to stump me. You see, as I smash away on this keyboard, searching for answers in this ViolentSilence, I often wonder why I am doing this.

I don't to have look beyond GodThruMan (#18), or Hero, or Dad ... at the Wall, or Morning to Praise, or Rooting for Ray #5 ... to understand what's happening here at G&G.

Tears are pouring ... Darkness is disappearing ... Light is emerging ... Lives are being changed ... and people are loving ... all for His Glory!

To answer the question ... Yes, prayer does work! If you need help passing on the information to a friend or loved one, plagiarize from Ms. Infantry above. I am sure she won't mind.

100% Update: One Month-Anniversary

Photo: Swell Done!

Today marked the Monthsary ( ... one month anniversary ... ) since the ViolentSilence ... that near fatal car accident on September 20, 2008 that dramatically altered our lives and perhaps touched yours. Nobody really wants to celebrate a monthsary for an accident, so let's celebrate the monthsary of our new life. Here's an update:

1. Dad sat up in a chair for two hours today ... Mom calls it a living hell ... for both of them.


2. Dad ate a "Buffet of Spoons" for lunch, including: 3 spoons of MashedTaters, 2 spoons of MashedChikin, 3 sips of AppleJuice, 2 spoons of Puddin, and 1 spoon of Jello ... that sounds like a recipe for a stomach ache for someone who has not eaten solid food for a month ...


3. Dr. Rehab wants to push Dad to the limits. He says that Dad has made amazing improvement, but that he does not want to cause a relapse due to pain medication. (Note to Self: Sounds fishy to me ... is that even possible? Lot's a people say Dad needs NoPainJuice! We need to look into that.)


4. Dr. Rehab is going to contact our friends at the TraumaCondo to see if they can removed the neck brace.


5. Nurse Mt. Pleasant really impressed Mom today with his respect for Dad (as a patient), his kindness, and his assertiveness. On this "second day after nights of no sleep" thanks for the precious caregiving Mt. Pleasant! (Note to the other nurses: Shape up! We are taking notes ... Good ... and Bad ... )

For those late night G&G-ers, let's pray that Dad (and Mom) get some sleep tonight. Something more than 2 hours. Adios.

G&G Stuff

A few of you in the World have emailed and called ... singing praises about all of our fashion design team members involved in the Logo Contest ... and wanting t-shirts and stuff.

There are many ways this could have been done, but the easiest way we found was through a little ( ... not so little ... ) outfit called CafeExpress.

This way, you can order whatever you want and we don't have to worry about the administrative-ness about it all. We don't need to worry about having hundreds of t-shirts in our garage and we can continue to update the designs as they are submitted. So, for those who asked for it, you can get your ...

G&G Stuff

at

[Note: This is not intended as a fundraiser, but the mark-up for each item will pay for the online service fee and maybe a cup of coffee for Mom in the mornings.]

[Disclaimer: Of course, we here at G&G take absolutely no responsibility for whether your stuff gets to you in the right shape or size. We are just a Typer of Tidbits ... Poster of Pieces ... Blogger of Bible Business ... Reporter of Recovery ... Enabler of Entertainment. We are not a Certified Seller of Stuff.]

100% Update: Just the Facts

No time to play with words ( ... which you know that I love doing ... ). Here's an update from Mom:

1. Dad gets rest from about 10:00pm-2:00am. But then starts the long night of anxiety, loneliness and pain. ( ... we are there, but he feels lonely ... ) Last night was no different.


2. The results from the blood tests to determine whether there are any new problems with Dad's heart came back regular. We are still waiting on the morning X-Rays.


3. Dad sat in a medical, reclining chair this afternoon for 2 hours. He hated it! ( ... Can I say that? A pastor "hating" something? We can debate that later ... )

Small World ... Only God ...

Generally speaking, when you meet someone who has a tie to someone else you know, or to somewhere else you have been, or to something else you have done, then the standard response is, "Wow! It's a small world!"

At G&G, that kind of stuff happens all the time and we say, "Wow! Only God ..." Let's see if you can follow this one:

1. On Saturday, I recieved an email from Ms.Infantry at Buffalo Valley Presbyterian Church, who says they "have been praying since the accident. Our minister Mr. W has been particularly compassionate, disturbed and prayer-motivated after I shared with him the challenge that has been placed before Pastor Ray, your family and the Woodbine family, of which I will always consider myself a part."


2. On Sunday, I received an email from PrayerChair (Yep ... the one who helped send Dad to the Wall ... ). PrayerChair (and her circle of friends) have been praying for Dad since early in this journey. Apparently, PrayerChair received a copy of Ms.Infantry's email asking for prayers for Dad. Can you believe that? Small world ...


3. It's like saying: PersonA prays for Dad. PersonB prays for Dad. PersonA and PersonB do not know each other, and I have never met either one of them. And I just found out that PersonB sent an email to the World to pray for Dad, and PersonA received a copy of that email from PersonC. Wow! Some would say, "Small world ..." We say, "Only God ..."

Rooting for Ray (#8)

If you are "Rooting for Ray" ... then send us your pic. Today's FeaturedFoto is a combo from our FamJam and the BakersDozen. Yep! We provided the baby and Mrs. Dozen provided by the bib!

Thanks for everything BakersDozen ... from the prayers ... to the food ... to picking up kids ... to the Food$$Card (... we have not had a chance to use it ... ) ... to just being there!

UPDATED (2:52pm): This just in ... new pics from MyBeloved ... here's the complete package ...

Please send your "Rooting for Ray" pictures here.

Whether you are family, friend, or perfect stranger,

we want to hear (and see) from you!

..............................

BTW, I keep hearing from BethelCollegeBoy that he and his friends are "Rooting for Ray," but I don't believe them. Wish I had some proof. In fact, I bet I would get a photo from his sister Bubbles before him. That would stink ... losing to a girl!

100% Update: The Cost of 50%-50%

I have a feeling that today is going to bring a few more new visitors to our little G&G website. Don't know why ... just a feeling ... so let's start with some basics.

1. You are the World. I am known simply as Self.


2. My Dad, a local pastor in Nashville, was in a near fatal car accident 4 weeks ago. I was at the scene a few minutes after accident, which has become known as our ViolentSilence.


3. The high level trauma unit ( ... we call it the TraumaCondo ... ) gave Dad a 50%-50% chance of survival.


4. We rejected that prognosis and instead proclaimed 100% Recovery. [ ... My uncle actually said 110% because he felt that Dad was going to be back better than before ... ]


5. Unlike many other trauma patients at the TraumaCondo, Dad miraculously survived ( ... three others did not survive within hours of Dad being discharged ... )


6. Dad was sent to a speciality acute rehabilitation facility ( ... we call it TheSelect ... ) two weeks after the ViolentSilence.


7. Dad has now been at TheSelect for two weeks and was taken off the LungRobot ( ... I am sure you can figure that one out ...) early yesterday morning. That's right, only 14 days to wean off the LungRobot.

Now that you are up to date, let me give you an update from the weekend:

• Mom received the bill from the TraumaCondo ... which does not include the bill for all the life-saving doctors. The cost for the 50%-50% prognosis was ... well ... Let's just say, we need HowieMandell to call us so Mom can pick one of those little suitcases from a row of beauties.


• Dad started experiencing severe chest pains yesterday afternoon. Nurse Nashville ( ... we rename all our caregivers ... ) and the RehabTeam immediately jumped into action. Dr. On-Call was immediately called, X-Rays were taken, new HeartMeds were given. The team watched Dad carefully all evening and night. We have not spoken with Dr. Rehab this morning ... but Dr. On-Call believes it was chest pain from the broken ribs and all the work in rehab Dad has been doing, as opposed to hurt-heart-chest-pain.

If you have not heard about us, then you may want to know we are a praying family. If you don't know what a praying-family does, then click here. Even Dad prays. It has worked for us and it will work for you. If you have been with us since the beginning, or joined us somewhere in between, then you know what to do:

1. Sustained breathing off the LungRobot
2. Relief from chest pain
3. Relief from total body pain
4. Continued improvement on neurological responses

Thanks. Talk with you later.

The Game Plan

Sunday, October 19, 2008

Mom and Dad were chillin' out this weekend ... just like a couple of 42-year-married lovebirds ... when Dad decided to get all game-plan-ish on Mom. What is game-plan-ish?

It's when a lying in a hospital bed with millions ( ... exaggeration ... ) of broken bones, right eye funkified, left eye dazed, heart stitched back together, brain bruised, lungs working hard, feet and legs tingling tons, entire body messed up, fully frustrated pops asks his wife, "What's the game plan?"

"What do you mean, dear?" Mom responds.

"What is the game plan for getting out of here?" Yoda-voiced-Dad demands.

[World, you may be saying that your friend, brother, colleague, pastor, or just-heard-about-him-through-a-friend Ray sounds like he is getting better. The answer to that, World, is yes ... he is getting better ... small steps each day ... but we have a very, very, very long way to go. Dad just got off the LungRobot this morning, but we have to watch carefully over the next few days. Dad is not able to simply walk to the bathroom to ... well ... go to the bathroom. Dad is not eating food, except for 1 applesauce three days ago, 1 yogurt two days ago, and 1 pudding yesterday. Dad is not fully coherent, but he can pray like King David and Paul. He's my hero!]

"Let's talk about it!" Mom excitedly responds.

Over the next hour, the two lovebirds write out the GamePlan for the next few weeks. It includes the minor ( ... sit up ... eat ice chips ... work legs in bed ... ) to the major ( ... stand up ... eat food ... stay off LungRobot permanently... ).

If you know my Dad, then you know that needing the GamePlan is exactly him! ( ... And, according to Mom, it is exactly my brother ... Hi CaveBear! ... ) With a GamePlan, Dad knows what specifically to ask for in his prayers and he can continue on his determined recovery. Next on the GamePlan:

1. Smaller tracheotomy tube
2. Drink juice
3. Eat mashed potatoes
4. Sit up in bed for more than 2 minutes
5. Stand up for more than 1 minute

World, let's pray this man to health. If you want to leave a prayer, go here.

Doctors Say the Darndest Things

If you did not hear, Dad returned his LungRobot this morning. Yep, no more assisted breathing. He is still on oxygen full time, but no assistance.

Another small step today was that Dad got to spend some private time ( ... well, it's not so private now that I announced it to the World ... ) on the BedsideThrone. During the private time, Dr. Rehab 1.0 came in, looked up, and immediately apologized:

"I'm sorry. Do you want me to come back? Wow ( ... looking at the BesideThrone ...) that's good! That ( ... pointing at the BesideThrone ...) is really, really good! I'll come back, okay?"

Like kids, doctors say the darndest things.

Find the Difference

Can you find the difference between these two photos? One was taken at 8:20am this morning and the other was taken at 8:21am. Circle the missing oxygen-full, air-pumping, breathe-assisting, LungRobot, piece of equipment.

[For those those individuals who want just the facts ... Dad is officially off his ventilator ... ]