General Hospital

Wednesday, December 31, 2008

So many doctors ... so many nurses ... so many therapists ... so many assistants.

As Dad enters a new stage of REhabilitation with REconstructive surgeries, we wanted to take a minute to REintroduce you to some of Dad's medical gurus. Here they are:

• DocOc is the ocular plastic surgeon, who is looking at the right eyelid "opening and closing" issues.
• Dr. NewEye a/k/a Dr. AsianOcular is the cornea specialist, who is looking at the damage to the right cornea.
• Dr. NewFace is the plastic surgeon, who is looking at the damaged nerves and sag on the right side of Dad's face.
• Dr. EyeGal and Dr. EyeGuy are the optometrists who have treated Dad's left eye.
• Dr. Beethoven is the hearing specialist, who is looking at the hearing problems.
• Dr. BoneFixer is Dad's orthopedic surgeon, who is looking at Dad's ribs, clavicle, pelvic and tailbone.
• Dr. BidenSmile and Dr. Dentyne are the oral surgeon and regular dentist, who are helping to give Dad a new smile.
• Dr. FamDoc is Dad's family doctor.
• Dr. Groovin' was in charge of Dad's rehabilitation at WorthyRehab.
• Drs. Rehab 1.0, 2.0 & 3.0 were the rehabilitation specialists at TheSelect.
• Dr. BigVoice was a neurosurgeon at the TraumaCondo, who never seemed to want to give us any hope ... verbal words of encouragement ... but he stay committed to Dad's care.
• Dr. $$, Dr. NiceNeuro, Dr. Yuck were other random (but necessary) doctors and neurosurgeons on rounds at the TraumaCondo.
• XRAYGirl and XRAYGuy were responsible for ... well ... x-rays at the TraumaCondo.
• Dr. Trauma was the one who performed the multiple procedures to help save Dad's life at the TraumaCondo right after Dad's accident. He has been assisted by Dr. Trauma 2.0, 3.0, 4.0, TraumaLite, and TraumaLite-ette.

These are most of the medical gurus. Stay tuned for a RE-introduction to some of Dad's wonderful therapists, nurses and caregivers.

Amen Parking

It's official! Dad now has "Amen Parking" for the next six months. Dad and Mom just returned from the DMV with registration for their new-to-them car ... a Ford Explorer ... and a blue pass to park up front at the grocery story, library and church.

Ssssshhhhhhh...

Be quiet ... We've got a secret! Remember Extra, Extra? Rumor has it that you may see something in the morning paper on January 1, 2009 ... Ready for a great story? Ready for a tale of hope and love and miracles? Ready for a new year full of God's blessings?

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... You should be!

Number of Days Until Dad Preaches!!!

LittleSisters for BigBrothers

Tuesday, December 30, 2008

I love these girls! Sometimes I just want to eat them! They are so cute! Last Saturday, they gave a little bit of their hearts and Saturday morning to Big Brothers of Nashville ... by attacking the homes in Belle Meade ... seeking donations. We had fun.

A Word from Laptop: Life ...

One of our good young friends, Laptop, penned some inspiring words yesterday evening. World, we wanted to share them with you:

"I think we all take advantage of at least one thing everyday. Maybe it's your car that you can take anywhere you want to. Maybe it's the family your blessed with. Maybe it's a boyfriend or girlfriend. One thing i believe we all have taken advantage of at least once is life. Life is such a precious gift, given to us by the great Lord God himself.

A very close friend of mine passed away today because of a car accident that probably happened in less than 3 seconds. He wasn't sick or dying, it just happened. It has made me realize all the things in life I take advantage of myself, and the people i see everyday taking advantage of different things. Don't take advantage of life. You only get one and it can be gone in less than 5 seconds.

I will never have another friend like David, and i know I'm not the only person that feels this way. He was one of a kind. Sweet, generous, caring, loving, and above all a very Godly person. He was always thinking of others before himself. Take time out of everyday to be with your family. Call an old friend just to talk. Take your dog for a walk at the park. Most of all, thank God for all he gives you, mostly your life. Remember, you only get one. God Bless!!"

Laptop, thanks for the insight ... the simple reminder ... that life is so precious.

RuggedMan (1988-2008)

Now you know why we call him RuggedMan ...

David Ruggles (1998-2008) considered himself to be "awesome, fun and crazy." (He was a FaceBook guy!) We agree with his self-proclaimed title of "awesome, fun and crazy." MyBeloved and I taught the YouthGroup at church for one season. RuggedMan loved coming in late, making a grand entrace, always with a coy smile, and would sit down.

He was caring. He was honest. He was torn. He was content. He was silly. He was loving. He was conflicted. He was hard-working. He was only 20. He will be missed dearly ...

Rest in Peace ...

Ray of Hope

Isn't crazy when two events/circumstances/stories collide? Well, I've got a goocher for you:

(1) Do you remember our never-met-before follower named Compelled? She discovered the website early in this adventure and has been following our story (and praying for us) ever since. Compelled lives in New Mexico. Now, hold that thought.

(2) Do you remember my post about my former boss, Senator Pete V. Domenici (R-NM), and his retirement from the United States Senate? That was November 25, 2008 and I even posted a picture of a younger version of myself ( ... as good-looking then as I am today ... ). Now, hold that thought.

On November 26, 2008, those two stories collided in an amazing way. Let Compelled tell you in her words:

What an amazing bunch of miracles big and small are coming to my attention through your situation, your witness, Matt's blog and God's provision. This morning I woke up to the enclosed headline regarding Sen. Pete Domenici. God is finding ways, I think, to show the world through your miracles and others that He is still here and He is still working in these tough times.

And guess what -- when I opened your website to check on you, what did I see -- Matt's posting on Sen. Domenici. God again?

I'm still "compelled in Abq," still reading your blog daily, still praising God and praying for you each day and when I wake at night.

Thanks for the note, Compelled. Did you notice the headline: NEW RAY OF HOPE FOR PETE. Here's my favorite part about the article: "A devout Catholic, Domenici didn't discount the power of prayer in connection with his improved condition. Domenici said he doesn't know why his condition hasn't worsened, but said he suspects God has played a role. Everywhere he goes people tell him they are praying for him."

Goocher!

Number of Days Until Dad Preaches!!

Another ViolentSilence ...

Monday, December 29, 2008

... hit our church family today.  RuggedMan was killed in a car accident early this morning. Here's a guy that always had a pep in his step and a smile on his face.  He had his full life in front of him.  

What's happening, God?  What are you up to right now?  My brain hurts. Kinda like that MindNumb we all had a couple of months ago.  Do you remember?  ... It's where life has you wrapped so tight that your mind goes numb ... numb to the point that you are just surviving ... some by instinct ... some by faith ... some by grace ...

I will let you all know more about RuggedMan when I find out more details about the accident. For now, please pray for the Rugged Family ... you know we will ... and so will Dad and Mom.

Number of Days Until Dad Preaches!

GliderMom

When MyBeloved said on the day after Christmas that all she wanted to do was play with the kids ... she was absolutely serious!

A Little Break ... Please?!?!

No use in complaining. It doesn't work. So, let's call this venting. MyBeloved is sick (as in weak and nauseous ... No, she is not pregnant!). Most of my kids are sick (as in runny noses and yucky coughs). This morning, I got sick (as in hurled, chucked, threw up, vomitus maximus ... No, I am not pregnant!).

Then, we got the call ... another accident ... another single car accident ... a single car accident with a deer. As you know, my bro and sis-in-law left early this morning on their trek back to Minne-sowta. Right after they crossed the Tuckey-Illinoise border, while getting back on the interstate, a herd of these ...



... ran across the road. BAM! Accidente con el deero! Good news is that everyone is okay. Bad news is car won't run. Also, I am not sure they get to keep the deer for food. He may be evidence in the trial. ( ... We will have to dry him out, save him for after the huge verdict, and then have an all-you-can-eat Tuckey-Jerkey Party ... ).

For now, the Minne-sowta-ns are waiting for a rental car and a tow truck. We will let you know.

Memories (Old and New)

Sunday, December 28, 2008

I am sitting here late Sunday evening. My brother and his family (CaveBear, Fargo, and NorthernRunts) are packed for a 4:00am departure. Wii is already worn out. Nos. 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5 are pooped and sleeping. MyBeloved is sick. I am trying to get some work done in preparation for another round of family to arrive for New Years weekend ... the Okies Not from Muskogee are coming!

We already have some good new memories from this Christmas Season ... we have been given new life with an old Dad. But here's a favorite old memory for you Sunday late-nighters ... you Monday early-risers ... and you mid-morning-surfers ...

The End ...

...of the rumors about us being pregnant again. January 4 is not another "due date" for another child. Nor is it the date that we are announcing another "due date" for another child.

While we are on that subject, "Extra! Extra! Read all about it!" is not another announcement for another child. Nor is it an announcement about announcing another child.

Since the bag no longer holds the cat, let me end all of the rumors:

• January 4, 2009 ... Dad will preach his first sermon since the accident ... He will be sharing his story! Invite your friends and family!

• Extra! Extra! ... The Tennessean will run a year-end-New-Year-brings-hope-and-promise-to-this-messed-up-dude-and-his-family article sometime this week. (Make sure you pick up a few extra copies for Dad and Mom!)

• NO ... WE ARE NOT PREGNANT AGAIN! ... yet ...

Who Wears Whose?

You've heard the often joked about phrase, "She wears the pants in the family!" And as you look around your family and friends ... and especially that chic down the street ... the one with the white Lexus SUV ... you know exactly the type of family we are talking about.

As a rugged man, I know that "I" wear the pants in my family. That is, the "I" am king ... "I" am lion ... Hear me roar! ... just like all the other rugged men out there. Even Dad wears the pants in his family.

Well, this brings a whole new meaning to the question ... Who wears the pants in the family?

Since Dad's accident, Mom has been on double-duty caring for his needs. Chocolate milk with his meal. Pillow on his chair. Setting out his clothes before therapy.

Last week, in a mad rush to get ready for the day's happenings, Mom set out a pair of jeans and a sweat shirt for Dad to wear. They got everything together and raced out the door. As Dad was walking down the hallway to an appointment with the social security department, Mom noticed that Dad's socks were showing ... as in, "high-waters" ... as in, his pants were too short. Mom was puzzled, but did not say anything.

As the two LoveBirds arrived at the bank for some "banking needs," the short-legged pants became more apparent. Dad was definitely getting ready for a flood. With a "No...it couldn't be!" look in her eyes, Mom schooched over to Dad ... looked the tag on his jeans ... and read the words quietly:

Jones New York

Yep, Dad still wears the pants in the family ... only they were Mom's pants!

Now You Know ...

Saturday, December 27, 2008

... how my wife and children feel when I am preparing for a big trial. No family dinner. No tuck in the bed or ni-nite sing time. No morning play time. No love notes. Not even a call to tell you I'm okay.

And there you are ... Home Alone ... and you've been hitting refresh on G&G every few hours over the past two days ... nope ... nothing ... not even a call to tell you we are okay!?!?!?!

But it's Christmas, you keep telling yourself. It's okay. I missed you, too. I thought about you. I just couldn't sneak away to tell you. I tried. Honest. I did. But I got busted by her!

Well, it has been a fun few days with the kids ... and my brother CaveBear, my sister-in-law Fargo, and their runts. We have a few stories to tell, but please be patient.

Family picture tomorrow.

Shhhhhh. Here she comes. Don't tell her I was here. Talk to you later.

Out.

'Twas the Night Before Christmas

Wednesday, December 24, 2008

We are not not going to recite the classic tale here. Besides, there is an updated version called "Twere Three Months Before Christmas" that is circling the Internets.

We at G&G want to wish you and your family a Merry Christmas Eve! This will be our first Christmas Eve at home in many years. We've have many traditions in the past ... and we are happy to start new traditions. Please share with us your Christmas Eve traditions ...

January 4 ... What Will It Be?

Have you guessed what's coming on January 4? There's a lot of speculation out there. One important thing about January 4 is ... that is the day that Mom'sLad ... one of Mom's lads that became part of our family during this whole ViolentSilence ... gave his life to Christ! Amazing coincidence? Nope!

Thanks to BrainyHistory, here are some other great January 4 moments in history:

January 4, 2007 Nancy Pelosi is elected Speaker of the House, by a vote of 233-202 (Yuck!)

January 4, 1995 Newt Gingrich becomes speaker of the House (Yea!)

January 4, 1984 "Night Court" starring Harry Anderson premieres on NBC TV (Cool!)

January 4, 1969 Birthday of Jay Z, American Musician (Word!)

January 4, 1965 T S Eliot, poet, dies in London at 76 (Big sigh, Little tear!)

January 4, 1954 Elvis Presley records a 10 minute demo in Nashville (Uh-Uh!)

100% Update: Count von Count

Tuesday, December 23, 2008

"Velcome to G&G my leettle freends! I am CountVonCount! I have a leettle game to play wif you! Ah-Ah-Ah-Ah! Are you ready to play along? If so, then take a deep breath ... And you are going to count OUT LOUD, WHILE EXHALING SLOWLY, as high as you can wifout taking a breath. Ready? Go."

One. Two. Three. Four. Five. Six. Seven. Eight. Nine. Ten. Eleven. Twelve. Thirteen. Fourteen. Fifteen. Sixteen. Seventeen. Eighteen. Nineteen. Twenty.

"How high did you get my leetle freends? Ah-Ah-Ah-Ah-Ah."

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That CountVonCount is one funny dude. How far did you get? I tried it last night and got to 32 ... but I almost passed out. This is one of Dad's exercises at Speech Therapy. When he first started two weeks ago, Dad could barely count to 4. Yesterday, Dad counted to 12! That's great improvement. Here are a few more updates:

• Dad is getting ready to be promoted from a walker to a cane.
• Dad's balance is getting better ... last week he could not hold a position on a stepping block ... this week he did so.
• Last week, Dad had to take steps one-half-step-at-a-time ... left foot down to the step, then right foot down to the step ... This week, Dad can do one-step-at-a-time ... left food down to the step, then right foot down to the next step ...

Dad sees each of these improvements as little victories. And so do we!

This Just In ...

Extra! Extra! Read all about it! (... that's all we can say for now ...)

That's Not Right (#8)

That's not right ... a collection of stories, events, and incidents that are just ... not right! No explanation needed for these three jolly-go-partiers ... ... simply not right ... unless you live in Tuscaloosa.

100% Update: Little Lamb and Shepard Boy

Said the little lamb to the shepard boy:

Do you hear what I hear?

Ringing through the sky shepard boy:

Do you hear what I hear?

A song, a song,

High above the tree,

With a voice as big as the sea!

With a voice as big as the sea!

I LOVE THAT SONG! I love this time of year! I am a mess because I have too much work, too many kids that need me at home, and too many sneezes and coughs and ear pains suffered by MyBeloved (... yep, she's sick ... not like sick-in-the-head-like-you-and-me sick, but just sick ...)

Dad loves that song, too. Only, he can't hear the little lamb for another few months. Dad heard received word back from Dr. Beethoven yesterday and it looks like they cannot do the hearing surgery until March 2009. They will be able to move the surgery up if it can be performed at SaintTommy's ... another local hospital. We will let you know.

My Kids Love Seafood ...

... Tennessean Seafood, that is!

Be Patient Please ...

... Internet down right now ... No, not the whole Internet, just mine at work!

Rooting for Ray (#22)

Monday, December 22, 2008

If you are "Rooting for Ray" then send us your pics here. It's been awhile since we had any Rooters, but today's FeaturedFoto comes just in time for the holidays ... these Junior Rooter-ettes are just adorable!

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

Morning Laugh

Until I get caught up, you will have to read this for a morning laugh.

Guess What's Coming?

Sunday, December 21, 2008

1-4-09

1-4-09

1-4-09

1-4-09

1-4-09

12 Steps to Recovery

Friday, December 19, 2008

Another addict has surfaced. Remember this one a few months ago? There have been a few more confessions here and there. In a round about way, another addict has surfaced. I don't have her permission, so we will call her G&G-Anon for now, but check out her silent confession:

Oh why do I torture myself going there? LOL...(Lots of Laughs) I was in tears "AGAIN" today... but I'm sure over somethings I needed to hear. I must confess since last month I have not been there multiple times a day like before... and many times I don't make it daily, but I'm always sure to read the past blogs to catch up. I have been struggling all day with my emotions .... and I think it pushed me over the edge for a bit to read ... but I'm sure God led me there to read it today as it was part of what I was struggling with! But darn it... NO MORE MAKING ME CRY! It's Christmas... I want to be HAPPY! LOL ... I really encourage any of you who have not been going there to please do so. Along with updates on Ray... Silly Matt, usually has something"s".... that are really good and inspiring! THANKS MATT!

Heh heh heh! Silly Self!

That's Not Right (#7)

That's not right ... a collection of stories, events, and incidents that are just ... not right!

No background needed on this one. I happened to be up at 3:00am this morning ... going to work early ... showered and fully dressed ... and Dylan runs dances into our room. He looks at MyBeloved, smiles, and says, "I gotta go to the bathroom. Can I use yours? There is no soap in my bathroom."

I'm sorry, but that's not right!

100% Update: Yellow! What's That You Say?

Thursday, December 18, 2008

Dr. Beethoven ... Dad's hearing specialist ... wears yellow sneakers. Beethoven and his resident colleague, Dr. ChocolateFactory, gave Dad a full assessment on Tuesday. Here's what happened:

1. ChocolateFactory first performed a medical history. He examined Dad's ears with a high powered microscope and cleaned them out. He determined there was no fluid in Dad's ears. Accordingly, ChocolateFactory felt that the cause of hearing loss had to do with the head trauma. He then went to get Beethoven.
2. According to Mom, Beethoven makes GeorgeClooney and BradPitt look like dogs! [ ... Mom! Dad is standing right there ... not so loud ... he will hear you ... oh, yea, no he won't! ... ] The docs pulled up Dad's scan of his ears.
3. Dad suffered fractures of the the temporal bone as a result of the severe head trauma. These fractures cause a variety of signs and symptoms which include hearing loss, vertigo, facial paralysis and many other serious issues. Evaluation of facial paralysis from temporal bone fractures should begin with early diagnosis, but Dad had so many other pressing life and death injuries they took precedence over the evaluation of the temporal bone. Of course, they could do nothing about testing his hearing until he was cognitive.
4. Beethoven feels like Dad can recover substantial hearing with surgery. He would lift back the EarDrum and check to see if the "ear" bones are broken. They can be fixed with a titanium plate ( ... we think that is what he said ... ).
5. At the time of surgery, Beethoven will also look at what is going on with the facial nerves that run through the canal and may be able to address those issues to a degree. He talked about the possibility of decompression of the FacialNerve. He also indicated that sometimes the facial nerves regenerate on their own which is God doing his work.
6. Beethoven is looking at surgery for Dad around February and might be able to work in tandem with Dr. NewFace ... the plastic surgeon ... if he thinks surgery is needed on Dad's right eye (gold weight).
7. Dad saw NewFace today ... and it appears that everyone wants to know that Dad's heart and lungs are strong and healthy before any surgery. That decision will be made by Dr. HeartBeat ... the new cardiologist ... who Dad sees on January 8, 2009.

Sounds likes a soap opera, huh? Let's all just agree to enjoy the next few weeks with our families and prepare for some surgeries in January and February. Sound good?

P.S. Dr. Beethoven and Dr. ChocolateFactory made the same comments that every other doctor has made. Dad is remarkable! Generally, anyone with the type of heart injury that dad sustained simply does not survive. Mom and Dad both came out of the office encouraged and, once again, humbled by what God did for Dad ... and how He protected Dad ... and continues to do so. Dad was overwhelmed by God's grace and gave into tears of happiness. He often wonders why God chose to save him. Must have something important for him to do. We are always amazed how God brings the very best doc into Dad's life for every given situation or injury.

Diary of a MadDad ... (#2)

Diary of a MadDad ... similar to its 1835 Russian counter-part ... chronicles the life of one low-ranking servant ... he is a father of five! As he slips further into the insanity of PARENTHOOD, this MadDad reveals what is truly important in life.

______________________

Dear Diary:

Slow down! Deadlines. Stomach ache. Phone calls. Funerals. Deadlines. Sick kids. Slow down!

If I can just get caught up, then I will have time for those wife and kids. Shhhhhh! Don't bother me now, I am trying to get caught up!

My No.1 ... we call her Ya-ya ... finally got it. And she reminded me this morning. For as long as I can remember, I would leave in the morning with a kiss and a smile to whoever was awake at that time. Ya-ya usually was. "Goodbye, Dad," she would grunt. "Goodbye, my love. Have a good day! And make a difference in the world ..." was my standard response. She grunted back.

Until this morning. I was grunting ... see above ... as I was racing out of the house.

"Dad ..." she called.

"What?" I grunted.

"Make a difference in the world today! Love you."

... Wow ... she finally got caught it ...

"Love you, too."

Diary, write this down ... "Slow down Self ... make a difference ... smell your kids ... play with your roses ..."

Self

Dad Hearts Dave

Wednesday, December 17, 2008

You know that Dad is "getting back to normal" when he pulls out his friend, Dave. On Monday, Mom and Dad went to the bank Dad did his wheeling and dealing with their Dave Ramsey ... Financial Peace envelope system. The bank manager came out of his office to greet Dad and tell him how glad he was to see him. Here's a note from Mom:

Life is good...God is even better. We continue to thank Him for his "loving kindness during daylight and His faithfullness at night" which you prayed over him everytime you left him after your visits. Tell everyone hello for us!

You just did, Mom ... you just did!

100% Update: Names and Faces

As you know, Dad began outpatient therapy when he joined the fraternity Pi-Beta-Phi a few weeks ago. ( ... To those who think we are too cryptic at G&G, Pi-Beta-Phi is the actual name of Dad's outpatient rehab center ... Dad did not join a fraternity ... it is a play on words ... please either stop reading G&G or keep reading and quit complaining ... ).

It is now time to introduce you to some of Dad's fraternity brothers and sisters:

• This is CareBear ... who is Dad's occupational therapist. He is great at what he does (working on upper body areas) ... but CareBear goes beyond working with Dad's physical needs. He is deeply concerned with Dad's eyesight deficiencies. He has worked tirelessly to get us connected with the eye specialists ... the ones who will be able to help determine what needs to be done with the left eye that has no peripheral vision.


• Right now, Dad can see up, down and directly in front of him ... but nothing to the left. As you know, if you are to the left of him he has to turn his entire head to see you. ( ... If you are playing hide-n-seek with Dad, that's a good place to hide ... to the left ... )


• CareBear ... we call him that because he is so caring ... got us into the Vandy Eye Institute. CareBear definitely has a passion for his career and for his patients/clients. He always takes time to visit with Mom after Dad's hour with him and also shows great concern for our family as a whole.

• This is Professor ... who is Dad's speech therapist ... Professor always has challenges for Dad's cognitive skills. Last week, Dad watched various newscasts and discussed them with the Professor. Dad feels like he is back in school. This week, the challenge is to began to put together a sermon. Dad has decided to start working on "his story." The Professor is fascinated by Dad's story ... he teaches a class to individuals who have suffered brain trauma and asked Dad's permission to share the G&G web site. ( ... Professor, Of course you can! The more the merrier! ... ) The Professor is looking forward to Dad's story ... in his own words.

• This is KindredSpirit ... who is Dad's physical therapist. She is definitely a taskmaster as she takes Dad through his physical therapy regiment. As Dad's kindred spirit, they spend a great deal of time talking about their faith. Again, Dad shares his story. KindredSpirit said that she surfed G&G and shed a few tears. ( ... It's okay, KindredSpirit, it happens to the best of us ... Just ask MyBeloved what a crying fool I am ... )

As always, we see God's provision as JehovahJireh ... the One who knows our needs beforehand. He has brought the perfect people into our lives during this new chapter of our lives. With "caregivers" like CareBear, the Professor and KindredSpirit ... it is no wonder Dad is energized. By the way, Dad is always exhausted after therapy ... which is an indication that they are great at what they do.

The atmosphere at Pi-Beta-Phi is awesome. Everyone that we come into contact with are the best in what they do. There is a peace about the place which brings Mom and Dad a great deal of comfort.

'Twere Three Months Before Christmas

Tuesday, December 16, 2008

'Twere three months before Christmas, when in the cold rain
An unknown voice spoke with uncertainty and pain;
The caller said “sorry” and words that brought fear,
Mom searched for some hope since she was not there;
She screamed to her sons … “Please help!” she said.
While visions of Violence danced in her head;
And Mom in her panic, and Brother at bay,
I had no choice: I was Man for that day.
I jumped in my car, drove quickly to him …
Dad was near fatal, chances were slim.

The scene was chaotic, frantic at best,
A lump in my throat … a pound in my chest;
I searched with my eyes, watered with fear;
The cones blocked all people, not to go near.
The blare of the siren, the ScreamingMachine;
Where was my Dad? His body … unseen.
My calves were now burning from TipToe to top;
I saw a limp arm … Mind racing—Please stop!
The car was wrapped tightly, in near-circular bent
The metal crushed body lay lifeless and spent.

Off with the medics, to get blood and fresh air.
They took my Dad’s body; I remained in despair.
This ViolentSilence, which I would soon learn,
Happens to others … others who yearn.
But alone stood my body, I searched for a prayer.
An Angel came by … Guardian now there.
Compassion and comfort, he spoke with eyes closed;
I fought every muscle to keep ‘self composed.
The only words heard were “hurt” and “hurt bad…”
I winced at each detail—God, please don’t take Dad!

The days that would follow, brought fear and more doubt;
Prayers once whispered … came out as a shout.
They stitched up his heart, his lungs and his chest;
They told us to prep for less than the best.
But our God is so grand; His promise is true:
Whatever you ask, He will do unto you.
We found peace in the Psalms—Word from above;
The nine-and-two chapter, spoke about love:
’Tis good to give thanks, to the Lord O’ Most High;
To declare Lovingkindness in the morning bright sky.
And Faithfulness by night, shall carry you through…
This is God’s promise to me and to you.

‘Twere three months before Christmas, we almost lost him;
A Pappy … a Dad; for us, it was dim.
But with faith in the Father and with hours of praise,
Those months before Christmas has now become days.
Dad walks with a limp, years of healing to come;
His face is part broken—the memories still numb.
But don’t you feel sorry, Dad asked me to say,
The Lord is Alive! He’s coming one day!
And I heard him exclaim; Dad said with all might,
Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good-night.

Find a Need ... Fill a Need

We found our winner of the Book Game! Quilter-Anon contacted us and declined the gift card, but with a nice note: "Thanks for being there."

Thank you, QA! We will pay it forward. If there is someone out there that has a need ... or if you know someone that has a need ... then let us know and we will find a home for this giftcard.

100% Update: Re-Engerizer Bunny

If you are new here ... we heard a rumor that there are some new readers joining us soon ... then you better catch up soon. Go to the buttons on the side of this website ... we affectionately call ourselves G&G ... and surf around the "Pastor Ray" update section. If you wanna cry yourself some real tears, then go all the way back to September 20, 2008, and read forward by each month. It may take you an hour and a box of tissues.


We are starting on Dad's third week at Pi-Beta-Phi ... that's the outpatient rehab fraternity that Dad's been "rushing" ... and Mom says that Dad is energized by his visits, as well as exhausted. Dad is becoming attached to "his people." Yes, he has people ... the best of people. We will introduce you to them shortly. But first, here's an update from last week:

• Dad's therapy is usually 3 days per week. He stays about 3-4 hours each visit. Pretty intense.
• Last week, Man and Dad ran into FirstMan ... a gentleman named Adam who was at WorthyRehab while Dad was there. He is 30 years old and sufferered a brain tumor. He is doing fantastic. He has a lovely wife and two little ones. He was always smiling and in good spirits while at WorthyRehab. When Mom shared with FirstMan about his "good spirits," he responded, "I am alive...what's not to be happy."

Here's what is on the schedule for this week:

• Today, Dad gets to see Dr. Beethoven ... the hearing specialist ... to determine whether the loss of hearing is due to a neurological problem. Maybe we will get answers.
• Today, Dad is also scheduled for an EchoTest of the heart ... some medical people call it an "echocardiogram" ... but that's just TMI ... Dad will then see the cardio specialist the first week in January as a follow-up.

It's now about 10:45am on Tuesday. Get to work!

Diary of a MadDad... (#1)

Diary of a MadDad ... similar to its 1835 Russian counter-part ... chronicles the life of one low-ranking servant ... he is a father of five! As he slips further into the insanity of PARENTHOOD, this MadDad reveals what is truly important in life.

______________________

Dear Diary,

I danced on that line again this weekend. You know, the line between discipline and anger. My intentions tell me it was productive discipline (... "Your actions have consequences, young lady!" ...), but my tone tells me it was unproductive anger. I knew I crossed the line when the glare back turned from sadness to anger.

That's how you tell ... If your anger causes their anger ... you did it. You are the adult. You have the training. You need to stay on the right side of the line.

In the end, you cannot crush joyful giggles ... even if the giggle wakes a snoring baby ...

Waking babies ... bad.

Crushing spirits of the baby-wakers ... bad.

Find new way to control anger ... good.

Sincerely,

Self (a.k.a. MadDad)

A Tribute to A Nanny ... Nanny A

Monday, December 15, 2008

Do you have a Nanny? There's so manny Nannies out there ... Nanny A's, Nanny B's, Nanny C's ... We love all Nannies!

Nanny A ... Nanny Armstrong ... passed in the night. For as long as can be remembered, she was either reading a book or working on a crossword puzzle. Although her soothing smile now lingers and her restful eyes are now closed, this is not the last chapter ... there's a few more words to write.

First, a good memory.

Her adult grandson ... we will call him J ... loved to antagonize Nanny A. (... How rude of him! ... ) As a young boy, J worked the tobacco fields with Dad and Pawpaw. On one occasion, J caught a frog out in the fields. Being so proud, he ran to show his Pawpaw ... who being the antagonizer he was ... told little J to take it in the house to show Nanny A. So J went running in the house, covering the frog in his little hands.

He walked up to Nanny A so excited, and with him being her first grandchild, she was excited at his excitement. He said, "Nanny, guess what I have?... "

Nanny A smiled and leaned toward him and asked, "What?"

J opened his hand to reveal the frog. Nanny screamed at the top of her lungs and rocked back so hard in her chair that it hit the wall. This scared the poor little frog, which lept out of J's hand ... leaving a puddle behind. As he ran around the kitchen trying to capture the frog, Nanny A started outside to give Pawpaw a piece of her mind for sending her sweet little grandson to do his dirty work.

J says he could hear his Pawpaw laughing before she even reached the door.

Second, a word of encouragement.

When a family member or friend leaves us (and this World) behind, sometimes we start to feel like there is unfinished business ... I could have done more ... I could have said more ... But where does that "more" get us? A warm feeling? Accomplishment? Completeness? Fulfillment? No, there will always be "more" to do.

It is better to find that warm feeling, accomplishment, completeness and fulfilllment in the larger context of life. Look for courage, comfort and hope in your present surroundings. Realize ... that just as our present life is temporary ... so, too, is death. A time is coming when we will reunite with those who have died and renew our relationships.

"For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, . . . nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:38-39).

Finally, an invitation.

Funeral arrangements for J's grandmother, Betty "Nanny A" Cooper, will be held at Anderson & Garrett funeral home in Joelton, TN, 37080 on Thursday 12/18 at 11:00am. Visitation will be held tomorrow beginning at 1:00pm and Wednesday beginning at 2:00pm.

PlainFolk

Last week, when I asked Mom to send me a picture to include with her "Falling in Love with Dad ... Again" post, she sent me this one. Who knew that Dad and Mom were Amish in their former ministry.

100% Update: ther.a.py

Main Entry: ther·a·py
Pronunciation: \ˈther-ə-pē\
Function: noun
Form(s): plural ther·a·pies
Etymology: New Latin therapia, from Greek therapeia, from therapeuein
Date: circa 1846

Definition: therapeutic treatment especially of bodily, mental, or behavioral disorder

So, according to Meriam-Webster, Dad has got some kind of disorder. Like the rest of us, he's allergic to telephone poles. (... It's okay to smile ... I know I am sick ... but he said it first ... ). Here's an update from last week's therapy sessions:

• Occupational therapy dude is concerned about Dad's vision and movement on the left side (good eye). Basically, the left eye can look up, look down, and look right ... but cannot look left. O-Therapy will be talking to someone else in the eye clinic to discuss the situation.


• Speech therapy dude was very pleased with Dad's reasoning skills. He is giving Dad harder and harder problems to solve and Dad is doing great. He does continue to say that Dad suffered a very serious brain injury ( ... a "10" out of "10" ... ) and it will take time to get Dad up to speed.


• Physical therapy chicas put the old SheepDog in a harness that extended from the ceiling. Dad was surround by moveable walls which simulated movement and he was standing a plate that moved up and down. This was to check his balance. They all discovered Dad has a great deal of work to do, even though he didn't lose his balance altogether.

Sometime soon, Dad will meet with the whole team. They will assess his status and develop a game plan. Remember that?

Anonymous Winner

Remember our Book Game two weeks ago? Well, we closed the entries last week and we did a random drawing this morning.

And the winner is ... #14 ... who submitted the fillowing:

Anonymous said...
"The 20th Century's Best American Quilts" - The strong horizontals and verticals in the striped frame are stabilizing and reminiscent of traditional frames rather than quilt borders.
Wednesday, December 03, 2008 12:43:00 PM

Since the entry was Anonymous, I guess we get to keep the Gift Card ... No, we are not that greedy at G&G ... If you are out there Quilter-Anon, let us know who you are ... Congrats! And thanks to everyone for playing.

I Got Nothing ...

Sunday, December 14, 2008

Sitting here late on Sunday night. Kids are out ... MyBeloved is trying to catch a crib, but No. 5 just wants to "bond" with her the way newborns wanna do every 2-3 hours ... Wind is whistling a fierce tune outside ...

... I'm not gonna lie to you ... I got nothing ... no great words of consolation for friends who are hurting ... no funny stories for loved ones who are bored ... no update on Dad for addicts who need a smile ...

... a blank screen ... I got nothing ...

Sk8ter Returns ...

Friday, December 12, 2008

... to the TraumaCondo. If you don't remember, Dad shared the Tenth Floor with a kid named Sk8ter, who had a serious head injury resulting from a skate-boarding accident. Sk8ter's Mom and my Mom really leaned on each other ... going through some long, scary nights together. Here's an update in their own words:

77 days ago, Ryan almost died from a traumatic brain injury. It's been 70 days since he woke up from a coma. 65 days ago, he was discharged from Vanderbilt Hospital. He was admitted into Vanderbilt Stallworth Hospital the same day. 59 days ago, he came home. Ryan completed his physical therapy 17 days ago. 2 weeks ago, he was once again behind the wheel of his car. Last week he re-enrolled in the spring semester at TN Tech University. Today, he is working 9 AM to 7 PM at a local pharmacy.

On December 11 at 3PM, Ryan will be re-admitted to Vanderbilt Hospital. At that time, Dr. Kyle Weaver will perform a Craniotomy on Ryan to replace his skull. The operation will take about 3 hours and Ryan will be in the hospital for up to 3 days. (Although from experience, he will be ready for his discharge much sooner.)

We are waiting to hear back from the family on Sk8ter's surgery. We will let you know.

100% Update: Snowed Out

It started snowing really heavy here last night so Mom cancelled Dad's appointments for the day. Let's hope that Dad ... while staying at home today ... doesn't freeze any bras in the the freezer!

If you are not a school today ... or if you stayed home with your kids today ... enjoy!

Mom Falls for Dad ... Again

Thursday, December 11, 2008

Mom fell for Dad many years ago ... aaaaaahhhhwwwww ... well, she fell for him again this weekend. I will let her tell you about both times ....

How dad and I met! I was invited to a picnic where there were several airmen (dad was stationed at Sandia Airforce Base in Albuquerque). While at the picnic a softball game was organized. Your dad was the catcher on the other team. When I came up to bat, I hit what I thought was a homerun. I ran around the bases as hard as I could and as I got closer to home plate I saw the ball being thrown to your dad. I decided to show off and slide into home plate. I fell at your dad's feet and he put me out. I looked up into his blue eyes and feel in love instantly and told myself that I was going to marry that guy. I can even tell you what he was wearing. Grey slacks, a plaid maroon and grey shirt and hush puppies. [ ... Hush puppies, Dad? Are you kidding me? ... ] I didn't let a little thing like he was dating a good friend of mine stop me from marrying him. [ ... Nice, Mom, nice ... ]

Who knew Mom was such a wildcat? More than 40 years of marriage later ... oops ... she did it again ...

Well ... "Falling for Dad...Again" happened Saturday night. I forgot to carry dad's water jug to the bedroom because I was too busy nagging him about being careful on how he was walking ... too fast. I ran down the stairs to get his water (ran being the word) and fell down the last four steps. Bad carpet burn on the knee and some sore muscles. We had a good laugh that I fell for dad again.

You crazy lovebirds ... keep laughing and loving ...

100% Update: The Rest of the Story

Paul Harvey is the one of the most well-known newsmen in the world. The legendary broadcaster is still going strong with his morning and noon News & Comment and his tantalizing broadcast, The Rest of the Story.

Well, earlier this week, I told you about some of Dad's appointments ... I gave a you taste ... a little morsel ... but not a lot of details. Well, today, we bring you the rest of the story on Dad's smile:

• Dr. Dentyne ... Dad's regular dentist ... didn't have to work hard to get Dad's teeth out. In fact, Dad said he could have pulled them out himself.


• Dentyne did some research about our questions about Dad's taste buds. [... Dad can't taste certain things and we were wondering if it had anything to do with the 6 & 7 nerve ... ] The lingual nerve is part of a group of nerves connected to 6 & 7. It carries nerve fibers that gives taste sensation to the anterior part of the tongue...so Dentyne said that is probably what is going on in Dad's mouth.


• Dad brought home his two front teeth to show DillyBar [ ... that's what Mom and Dad call our No.2 ... ] and put under his pillow.


• "All I want for Christmas is my two front teeth" is NOT going to happen before Christmas. Dad does not go back until December 30.


• Dentyne and his staff have been soooo good to Dad and do their best to make him comfortable since he has trouble sitting for any length of time.

And, now the rest of the story with Dad's vision:

• DocOc ... the ocular specialist ... said the scratch on the cornea was healed, but the thermo burn is still there. Dad has a follow-up appointment in 6 weeks.


• We told DocOc about Dad's appointment with Dr. NewFace ... the plastic surgeon ... who wants to put a "gold weight" on Dad's eyelid to help with closing his eye. DocOc said that everyone will have to work together as we get closer to that time.

And, that, my friends, is the rest of the story!

To All the Non-Believers

I have been proclaiming the truth for years. But a few of you ... particularly some of my friends back in D.C. ... did not believe in the truth. Now, look with your own eyes ... there ...

... Yes, there, on top of the Christmas tree ...

... See, they do make plain-flavored-Doritos! None of you believed me, you Non-Believers!

If you come over to my house to play, I will let you taste one ... This chip came before the Nacho, the Ranch, the SpicyNacho and all the other random flavors! Take a bite ... the truth will set you free ...

A Christmas Wish ... from Mom

This holiday has so much more different meaning than previous years. The phrase "gift of life" really means "gift" and "life" ... more on this later ...

Earlier this week, one of Dad's co-messed-up-dudes (MotorLife) had another surgery back at the TraumaCondo ... only now he on the Fifth Floor ... which specializes in neurology intensive care. MotorLife and his wife Ms.Teach have been on a rough journey over the past months and Mom has been following (and supporting) this lovely couple:

I went to Nuero (5th floor) Vandy to see Henry and Heather. Henry looked so much better and was resting. Heather recovered from the food poisoning and is eating. She was anticipating being transferred back to Cookeville. Without a doubt they are the most precious young couple. Henry is an artist and he has beautiful hands and long fingers. I prayer that one day he will be able to get back to school and then start working in his chosen field. Heather has had to go back to work (teaches the little ones) The good thing is that the Christmas holiday is just around the corner so she will be off for a couple of weeks.

Will you all do a special favor for the DeVries Family this year? Will you say a special prayer for Heather and Henry? They need a miracle. And good thing that our God specializes in those.

Military Honors KindSpirit

Wednesday, December 10, 2008

Remember our friends SouthernDrawl and JrKatz ... and their lost loved one KindSpirit? There was a beautiful, heart-warming ceremony this last weekend to celebrate KindSpirit's life. There were so many close family members and friends that whithered the cold, frost-biting breeze to put their arm around SouthernDrawl and JrKatz. Our military friends even came out to honor their fallen brother.

I made it until the trumpet. Then I cried. I'm a mess ... I know. Thanks for sharing the pictures SouthernDrawl. We love you.

100% Update: Smile!

This is a recent picture of Dad. He is in disguise ( ... he is wearing a hat ... ) to protect his anonymity. Here is an update:

• Dad got his new glasses this week. They only work in one eye, as the other one is still partially stitched shut. Remember? We are praying for healing of the 6th and 7th Nerves.


• Dad got his teeth yanked out yesterday. Yes, the broken ones. Dr. Dentyne placed a temporary bridge in his mouth. All should be fixed by Christmas.


• After sitting in Dentyne's chair for a couple of hours ... teeth ripped out by needle-nose pliers ... Dad and Mom headed over to DocOc ... the ocular specialist.

TTY.

100% Update: A New Chapter

Tuesday, December 09, 2008

The book is coming along great. Let's take a look at the Table of Contents:

1. The ViolentSilence

2. TraumaCondo

3. TheSelect

4. Worthy Rehab

5. Homebound

6. PiBetaPhi

And, now, for a new chapter ...

7. God'sHouse

... The new chapter tells about this man's journey back to God'sHouse, where there were cheers and tears and clapping and rapping. Dad walked through the doors at church this weekend and the place came alive! It was awesome.

Aren't you excited to follow this online ... while it happens ... with such great commentary and photographs? Where else can you get such excitment for free?

DoubleDate ... DoubleImmunization

These two girls and these two dads had a wonderful double date this past weekend. Wait until you see the surpise video ... priceless ...

And these two dads got free flu shots at the game.

What better evening? Two beautiful ladies ... free medical preventative care ... nachos, popcorn and ice cream ( ... not so preventative care food choices ...) ... and 5th row seats from fist-to-fist-fighting! Plus, our Nashville guys whipped those dudes from Minne-sowta!