Well, here I am...

Thank you, first and foremost to my daughter, Megan, who so capably kept up with this while I was in the hospital.  Looking back at what she said and did, I am even more impressed and thankful for her than I was before!  Also, for all your support and love...couldn't be doing it without you.  And then there is Buddy.  Thank you to him for, not only his love and support, but for taking the time to express it here.  Some of you don't know him well.  He is often a man of few words, unless they have a punchline or he's with our son!  But, his kind and thoughtful words share his heart better than anything...except his actions.  He has been so kind, patient with my ups and downs, and attentive. He and the kids have helped make this whole situation more manageable and that is something I am truly thankful for. Bobby's visit on Friday was the best part of the whole hospital deal (though morning coffee delivered by my sister ranks pretty high too!)

SInce being home, I have mostly slept, tried reading only to lose focus and sleep, thought I would be refreshed to manage something little and then wake up later, realizing I had fallen asleep!  Though Paoli Hospital is outstanding, there is only broken and restless sleep to be had.

Speaking from this side of things, there were some rough moments in the hospital, but they do all they can to help you be comfortable and prepare for home. My favorite was having Wendy Fulbright as my nurse a couple of times...don't EVER hesitate to ask for her. She is the best...even helping my wonderful sister feel comfortable enough to go home and sleep.  (I needed her fresh, not exhausted.)  But, all the nurses were great.  And I cannot say enough kind things about both of my surgeons.  I see the plastic surgeon tomorrow to see about taking out a couple of the drains...I hope so! They are annoying!

Thankful findings today...

• an encouraging conversation with a newer friend, being incredibly strong in the midst of her own journey
• daughters who are willing to help empty, clean, measure and 'strip' my drains several times a day.  Such servants.
• Heating pads when I'm cold!
• A pedicure from the cutest 16 year old ever - and I didn't have to ask!  :)
• Yummy food being shared by friends and family.
• A lovely visit with my folks over pizza...there was one particular rough patch at the hospital where it was difficult for them to see me so uncomfortable, and it encourages them to see me improving!  And they are good medicine for me.
• Finding humor in so many things...I insist on wanting to say 'helium' when asking for Valium when I know that's not right, told the girls I couldn't sit in the front seat of the car. It would have to be the backyard!  **I just don't understand!**
• Readings from several books that have consistently proven to be uplifting and just what I need.
• The blessing of knowing our Lord is in control, and how He orchestrates and makes good everything that enters my life...even when it is hard to accept.  I know He's okay with it, and so shall I be.
• Thankful that He is patient with me as I continue to learn to trust, hurt, grieve, learn, and obey...rejoicing in the midst of it all, or at least trying to!  Lord, I believe...help my unbelief.

It's late and I wanted to finally say something myself!  There are many of you that I am praying for consistently, and I find it a privilege.  

Sleep well, dear ones...I'll do my best not to fall asleep next time I'm making an entry!  ZZzzzzz....

Andi