Zaachi and I are sitting in the hospital waiting for the Doc to come and let us go. I asked him to share some things he has learned through this journey.
If you are going through a hard time. Just think of what will happen if you push through this hard time. Keep moving forward, the more forward the newer the day. The more you move forward the more you will heal. Keep your body healthy, eat lots of vegetable and grains and stuff. And don't forget to drink your milk. Words of advice for strong bones.
I have learned that God will be with you wherever you go, God is watching over you, you will always be ok. Everything that happens to you in life is part of God's plan.
Why do you think bad things happen?:
I don't know. Maybe because the enemy wants to destroy us.
Why would he want to do that?:
You know I don't have an answer for every question. I think he wants to destroy us, he wants us to think that God isn't protecting us but someone else is. He wants us to think that that someone else is him (the devil).
The Devil?:
I don't like using the word devil, for some reason that name doesn't go right with me. Out of all the names in the world, why did they pick "devil" to be his name?
What is your first plan of action now that you are done with treatment?:
Humm.....finding out if I am allowed to run and jump again and kick really hard in the pool. Cause then I be able to have even more of a blast. Then I can keep up with Alex, he likes to go go go.
If you are going through a hard time keep moving forward and you will fulfill your dreams.
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Friday, August 13, 2010
We have had some wonderful blessings this week. Funding came in for us to build an office space in our center living area of our house. Marc and I came up with and idea to use some old doors in our basement to create a desk top along with some homemade cabinet with the doors on the front. It will be a "door" theme. The hope is to be more organized, create a more efficient space for working and organizing life. Plus we came up with a way to hide all wires for baby safety as well as put all harmful supplies out of reach in the cabinets behind doors for the little hands that are soon to come. Such a miracle, it is such a need for us, but there was no money. God is amazing!
We also had some hard news this week. Marc has been fighting many odd spasms and some joint pain. We went to the Dr. two days ago and they informed us that he has Rheumatoid Arthritis. This was very alarming to us and has forced us to once again reassess how we do life. Marc started a drug regiment at a low dose initially to suppress his immune system. He also will need to start exercising frequently and living a healthier less stressful life. This may be hard considering the situations we can't control that we are in with Z being sick and the upcoming murder trial for the kids mom. With God all things are possible. He has never left us, he has alway upheld us. We will need to continue to strive to lay all things at the Lords feet. With the drugs that he is taking, there is a possibility of the Disease going into remission.
Last night I started feeling some discomfort in my lower abdominals. Dr. said that it may just be some stretching. I will take it easy this weekend and call them if it persist till Monday. Seems like it is one thing after another. Maybe it is an attack, maybe it just "life". Whatever it is or why it is I don't know. I felt tempted this week to be angry toward the Lord. It scared me that these feelings came, but I recognized that every GOOD gift and every PERFECT gift comes from above. So this, whatever it is I will fight as an attack, I will move forward to allow the flames to work good out in me not evil. It is a choice I have, pray that I keep a good attitude.
Something neat that is happening........ A friend of ours Beau, who is seeing our niece Courtney, went on a 6 week missions trip to Zambia. We received a call from him and he had met a friend of mine, Rick McDonald, from Master's Commission in Balt. who is now a missionary in Zambia. They called us together to check on Zaachi and share with us that they were together there and found it interesting that they both knew us. Well, ends up that Beau felt a call of God to return to Africa next year. I chatted with my Aunt Lisa the other night and she too had been in Zambia for awhile on a medical team. I also, got a message from Rick that two missionaries, a married couple, were moving to Bethlehem. The wife is going to be getting her PA in a school near by and they need a church and some connections here. Another friend of our is moving with his family to Cape Town, South Africa. Seems odd all these connections crossing, maybe one day we will end up in Africa or maybe God is showing us a need to pray for all those there. Only God knows, but I enjoy hearing all the exciting news of what God is doing.
Some days....this life is overwhelming, but when you hear the heart beat of a baby or see the world opening up before your children, it makes it worth it. Although sometimes in the moment, raising responsible, loving, God fearing, healthy children seems an impossible task. Oh, God grant me wisdom. I need you soooo much.
Zaachi goes in for his last Chemo next week. They were unable to get him into Ronald McDonald Camp so we will now do CHEMO a week earlier. He didn't call home once while at camp, I take it he is having a blast. He comes home tomorrow. Then on Sunday Jayden turns 16. It's hard to believe, that in two years I will have two kids in college, one in middle school, one in elementary and one still in diapers. The juggling act of trying to reach each child at their different seasons of life is always a challenge, but at least there is never a dull moment. I am always open to advice or suggestions or literature about how to do it better- so keep me in mind;)
We also had some hard news this week. Marc has been fighting many odd spasms and some joint pain. We went to the Dr. two days ago and they informed us that he has Rheumatoid Arthritis. This was very alarming to us and has forced us to once again reassess how we do life. Marc started a drug regiment at a low dose initially to suppress his immune system. He also will need to start exercising frequently and living a healthier less stressful life. This may be hard considering the situations we can't control that we are in with Z being sick and the upcoming murder trial for the kids mom. With God all things are possible. He has never left us, he has alway upheld us. We will need to continue to strive to lay all things at the Lords feet. With the drugs that he is taking, there is a possibility of the Disease going into remission.
Last night I started feeling some discomfort in my lower abdominals. Dr. said that it may just be some stretching. I will take it easy this weekend and call them if it persist till Monday. Seems like it is one thing after another. Maybe it is an attack, maybe it just "life". Whatever it is or why it is I don't know. I felt tempted this week to be angry toward the Lord. It scared me that these feelings came, but I recognized that every GOOD gift and every PERFECT gift comes from above. So this, whatever it is I will fight as an attack, I will move forward to allow the flames to work good out in me not evil. It is a choice I have, pray that I keep a good attitude.
Something neat that is happening........ A friend of ours Beau, who is seeing our niece Courtney, went on a 6 week missions trip to Zambia. We received a call from him and he had met a friend of mine, Rick McDonald, from Master's Commission in Balt. who is now a missionary in Zambia. They called us together to check on Zaachi and share with us that they were together there and found it interesting that they both knew us. Well, ends up that Beau felt a call of God to return to Africa next year. I chatted with my Aunt Lisa the other night and she too had been in Zambia for awhile on a medical team. I also, got a message from Rick that two missionaries, a married couple, were moving to Bethlehem. The wife is going to be getting her PA in a school near by and they need a church and some connections here. Another friend of our is moving with his family to Cape Town, South Africa. Seems odd all these connections crossing, maybe one day we will end up in Africa or maybe God is showing us a need to pray for all those there. Only God knows, but I enjoy hearing all the exciting news of what God is doing.
Some days....this life is overwhelming, but when you hear the heart beat of a baby or see the world opening up before your children, it makes it worth it. Although sometimes in the moment, raising responsible, loving, God fearing, healthy children seems an impossible task. Oh, God grant me wisdom. I need you soooo much.
Zaachi goes in for his last Chemo next week. They were unable to get him into Ronald McDonald Camp so we will now do CHEMO a week earlier. He didn't call home once while at camp, I take it he is having a blast. He comes home tomorrow. Then on Sunday Jayden turns 16. It's hard to believe, that in two years I will have two kids in college, one in middle school, one in elementary and one still in diapers. The juggling act of trying to reach each child at their different seasons of life is always a challenge, but at least there is never a dull moment. I am always open to advice or suggestions or literature about how to do it better- so keep me in mind;)
Monday, July 19, 2010
Update - July 19th
It has been awhile since my last entry. I think I was just burnt out and too tired and overwhelmed with life…..you ever feel that way? When you probably need friends and fellowship the most, you just shut the world out and try to ride the storm out.
On the bright side, a lot of good things are happening. Xavier got the opportunity to volunteer at Keswick in Massachusetts for the month and we will be going to get him and Jayden this weekend. Keswick is near and dear to our hearts. Marc’s sister, Amanda, used to go to that camp and then after her passing Marc had the opportunity to work there for a few years. A lot of our nieces and nephews have gone to the camp over the years and now our kids have been blessed to be able to attend retreats and camps, which is a miracle. The camp reached out to our kids in times of need and waved fees to ensure they could attend. I don’t know who gives the funds for these scholarships, but we have been very blessed and grateful. This year we definitely did not have the funds but somehow God made a way for Jayden to be there for two weeks. I pray this time has been life changing and exciting for them both.
Zaachi is in his first day of yet another CHEMO week. We will be here till Sat. morning and then we will be back for our final CHEMO week August the 23rd. It appears we will be done with treatment, which feels like “all is well”. Medically, “All is not well” they tell us he still has a far less than 5% chance of making it through, because the cancer typically comes back, however if there is 1% chance, there is still hope. We are going to embrace the life we have and hope and pray that he never has to face this again. I know “God has his hand on this little guy, he is his child, HE always has been.” I will put my trust in him.
My tummy is starting to firm up with the growth our 5th child. Oh, sometimes I feel like it still has not yet sunk in that I am pregnant. I am in my 13th week now. There are still fears that linger in the back of my mind that I must frequently fight, fears of getting my hopes up. But just like Zaachi I have to lay the situation at God’s feet and trust. I go on the 28th to hear the heart beat and I am sure I will feel more at ease after that.
Last week when we dropped Jayden off at Keswick, we stayed with our dear friends, Scott and Martha. I always feel like my brain turns into a sponge when I am there. They are both so good with finance and organization, it inspires me. I observe their methods of saving money and listen for words of wisdom. They are wise over the small things and it makes a big difference. They hang their clothes on the line, have a wood stove, coupon/sale/rebate shop. They are amazing. They pampered us while we were there. One morning Martha and I had pedicures together and it felt so good, I could almost hear the angels sing. Lol! Then that evening I got in their Jacuzzi and soaked for over an hour while finishing a good book. I felt the most relaxed that I felt in a long time. We then went to hang out with friends and family in CT and had a wonderful time. We even brought our nephew home with us till we go back. He is 19 and as geeky as his Uncle Marc. They have had a great time this week, playing board games and playing Frisbee golf. Marc and I will be sad to see him go. He is also really good with kids, Maggie and Zaachi have really enjoyed him as well.
Marc is in the midst of cleaning out our basement today. We had some water in the basement that was causing an odor and mold probably, so he moved things out and put Clorox water on the floors to ensure that nothing was growing. We will be having a yard sale soon! Got to get ride of some of this stuff and simplify life! I am ready to get organized and ready for routine again. Routine went rite out the window when we discovered his cancer again. I miss it and am really excited to get back to normal. We are trying to get Maggie into Head Start for the fall. She has been asking to go to school all summer and I think she is ready and would love it. Plus, when the baby comes, if she is in school the transition will probably easier for her.
Marc is only scheduled for part time work in the fall, but there is a possibility that the funding may come in for full time, which would be perfect. God has always provided what we NEED. I will trust that he again will come through with work for Marc.
So, if anyone would like to visit Zaachi this week we are at LVH on the 4th floor, B wing, room 18.
Thanks for all your prayers and support!
Choosing to trust and obey,
Susie
On the bright side, a lot of good things are happening. Xavier got the opportunity to volunteer at Keswick in Massachusetts for the month and we will be going to get him and Jayden this weekend. Keswick is near and dear to our hearts. Marc’s sister, Amanda, used to go to that camp and then after her passing Marc had the opportunity to work there for a few years. A lot of our nieces and nephews have gone to the camp over the years and now our kids have been blessed to be able to attend retreats and camps, which is a miracle. The camp reached out to our kids in times of need and waved fees to ensure they could attend. I don’t know who gives the funds for these scholarships, but we have been very blessed and grateful. This year we definitely did not have the funds but somehow God made a way for Jayden to be there for two weeks. I pray this time has been life changing and exciting for them both.
Zaachi is in his first day of yet another CHEMO week. We will be here till Sat. morning and then we will be back for our final CHEMO week August the 23rd. It appears we will be done with treatment, which feels like “all is well”. Medically, “All is not well” they tell us he still has a far less than 5% chance of making it through, because the cancer typically comes back, however if there is 1% chance, there is still hope. We are going to embrace the life we have and hope and pray that he never has to face this again. I know “God has his hand on this little guy, he is his child, HE always has been.” I will put my trust in him.
My tummy is starting to firm up with the growth our 5th child. Oh, sometimes I feel like it still has not yet sunk in that I am pregnant. I am in my 13th week now. There are still fears that linger in the back of my mind that I must frequently fight, fears of getting my hopes up. But just like Zaachi I have to lay the situation at God’s feet and trust. I go on the 28th to hear the heart beat and I am sure I will feel more at ease after that.
Last week when we dropped Jayden off at Keswick, we stayed with our dear friends, Scott and Martha. I always feel like my brain turns into a sponge when I am there. They are both so good with finance and organization, it inspires me. I observe their methods of saving money and listen for words of wisdom. They are wise over the small things and it makes a big difference. They hang their clothes on the line, have a wood stove, coupon/sale/rebate shop. They are amazing. They pampered us while we were there. One morning Martha and I had pedicures together and it felt so good, I could almost hear the angels sing. Lol! Then that evening I got in their Jacuzzi and soaked for over an hour while finishing a good book. I felt the most relaxed that I felt in a long time. We then went to hang out with friends and family in CT and had a wonderful time. We even brought our nephew home with us till we go back. He is 19 and as geeky as his Uncle Marc. They have had a great time this week, playing board games and playing Frisbee golf. Marc and I will be sad to see him go. He is also really good with kids, Maggie and Zaachi have really enjoyed him as well.
Marc is in the midst of cleaning out our basement today. We had some water in the basement that was causing an odor and mold probably, so he moved things out and put Clorox water on the floors to ensure that nothing was growing. We will be having a yard sale soon! Got to get ride of some of this stuff and simplify life! I am ready to get organized and ready for routine again. Routine went rite out the window when we discovered his cancer again. I miss it and am really excited to get back to normal. We are trying to get Maggie into Head Start for the fall. She has been asking to go to school all summer and I think she is ready and would love it. Plus, when the baby comes, if she is in school the transition will probably easier for her.
Marc is only scheduled for part time work in the fall, but there is a possibility that the funding may come in for full time, which would be perfect. God has always provided what we NEED. I will trust that he again will come through with work for Marc.
So, if anyone would like to visit Zaachi this week we are at LVH on the 4th floor, B wing, room 18.
Thanks for all your prayers and support!
Choosing to trust and obey,
Susie
Thursday, June 24, 2010
All day I have been filled with emotion. It's been a day of reflection, exhaustion and wonder. I found out that we have two more Chemo's instead of one. It's like a running a marathon, giving your all thinking the end is close, just to find out you have one more mile. I wondered today, just how tired Zaachi is, how does he feel about all of this? The Dr. spoke so highly of him in wonder of how well he is doing in light of the fact that in the last Month and half, he had two major surgeries and is now in Chemo. Today he walked around handing out Dum Dums to other patients and staff, he seems unaffected however I know he is. Father's Day just past and I know that brings up so many confusing thoughts. He was in tears Sunday and spoke of regret of not treating his father better, he felt that maybe he was the cause of his downward spiral. He was carrying a guilt that somehow he was the cause of his mother's death. I reassured him that often times as parents we feel the pain of hurtful angry words from our children but we are adults and we hurt, but move forward knowing that our kids love us they are just hurting as well. I assured him that he was not at all the cause as I have in times past. I pray he is able to let that go soon. I looked at him today, tired and not really himself, it has been a long few months, but we are almost done. Pray for him, it is a miracle he is sane with the events that have happened over the course of his little life.
I am hopeful. Just a few couple of months ago the clinic introduced us to our hospice nurse and now we seemed to be "out of the woods". I spoke about this to our Dr. and she said that the irony of and aggressive tumor is that the cells divide quickly making the chemo more effective. I asked in tears what she thought would happen from here. She said, "If anyone can beat this, Zaachi can." Zaachi can't but I know God can and I reminded her of how God has moved so miraculously in his and our lives. I want everyone to know, his hand has guided, healed, provided, strengthened.
I feel sick and nothing sounds good, not even Momma's homemade chicken dumplings. This will pass.
Maggie has been fun, yet a little challenging. It is like clockwork...CHEMO = Wild Maggie. Her world isn't right without everyone home. She was so funny yesterday. I was talking with our therapist and I said that something was "Awkward", Maggie said, " "Awkward, with no panties on". RANDOM! We of course laughed and she said, "Awkward, my butt hangin out" the tone was hysterical.
She has been obsessed with the topic of Heaven and Hell. Today she asked if there were bad guys in heaven. I told her that they would all be in hell and we would be safe with Jesus. She really liked this. She said, that Jesus was gonna crush the devil(she had heard this in a worship song). Trying to explain some truths are so hard. When I try I realize how much I depend upon Christianeaze. You can't used that with kids, so one must get creative.
Last night Mercy and Alex, two sweet friends from down the street, came over while their parents attended a Dinner. Mercy is 11 and has such a sweet caring, giving personality. She brought her nail stuff over and gave Maggie her first Pedicure complete with the scrub and massage. Maggie's words were, "This is Amazing". She then asked if she could do mine, I have cute toes at the moment thanks to Mercy. She told me that we need to learn how to make a blanket for the baby since it will be cold when it's born. She is so creative and fun.
Last week I got to sing for the first time at Epic. It has been a year since I regularly led worship. I miss singing, it is such a part of me. Ever since I was a little girl I was singing to Jesus. I am not leading worship but I am enjoying getting to know everyone and harmonizing. Harmonizing is fun to me, my roommates and I in college used to get a kick out of getting three parts going on our way to the cafe. When I visit Kirsten, she and I usually sneak down to the basement for some time of worship at her piano. Such refreshing times. I think that as believers there is such a need for reflection and worship at the alter after hearing the Word. It is the time to allow that seed to get rooted and pray through the STUFF of life that hold s us back. I remember lingering, even as a child till late hours seeking God around the alter. Those were the times that I remember, the CALL, the HEALING, the FILLING. I don't know where I would be without the alter. Humm....Lord revive us. I lay myself, again on the alter. I must take up my cross, DAILY. Stir in me, stir up the gifts that lay dormant inside. I don't know what you want for my life, but I am willing to do what ever it is. Reveal yourself to me.
I really should get to bed. I have a wedding tomorrow, Z still in the hospital, worship practice on Saturday morning, bring Zaachi home, then transport of Xavier to CT., church on Sunday and 4 Dr.s appointments on Monday(2 local & 2 in Philly). I feel overwhelmed thinking about it all. God is good, he will show me how to get it all done, he always does.
I am hopeful. Just a few couple of months ago the clinic introduced us to our hospice nurse and now we seemed to be "out of the woods". I spoke about this to our Dr. and she said that the irony of and aggressive tumor is that the cells divide quickly making the chemo more effective. I asked in tears what she thought would happen from here. She said, "If anyone can beat this, Zaachi can." Zaachi can't but I know God can and I reminded her of how God has moved so miraculously in his and our lives. I want everyone to know, his hand has guided, healed, provided, strengthened.
I feel sick and nothing sounds good, not even Momma's homemade chicken dumplings. This will pass.
Maggie has been fun, yet a little challenging. It is like clockwork...CHEMO = Wild Maggie. Her world isn't right without everyone home. She was so funny yesterday. I was talking with our therapist and I said that something was "Awkward", Maggie said, " "Awkward, with no panties on". RANDOM! We of course laughed and she said, "Awkward, my butt hangin out" the tone was hysterical.
She has been obsessed with the topic of Heaven and Hell. Today she asked if there were bad guys in heaven. I told her that they would all be in hell and we would be safe with Jesus. She really liked this. She said, that Jesus was gonna crush the devil(she had heard this in a worship song). Trying to explain some truths are so hard. When I try I realize how much I depend upon Christianeaze. You can't used that with kids, so one must get creative.
Last night Mercy and Alex, two sweet friends from down the street, came over while their parents attended a Dinner. Mercy is 11 and has such a sweet caring, giving personality. She brought her nail stuff over and gave Maggie her first Pedicure complete with the scrub and massage. Maggie's words were, "This is Amazing". She then asked if she could do mine, I have cute toes at the moment thanks to Mercy. She told me that we need to learn how to make a blanket for the baby since it will be cold when it's born. She is so creative and fun.
Last week I got to sing for the first time at Epic. It has been a year since I regularly led worship. I miss singing, it is such a part of me. Ever since I was a little girl I was singing to Jesus. I am not leading worship but I am enjoying getting to know everyone and harmonizing. Harmonizing is fun to me, my roommates and I in college used to get a kick out of getting three parts going on our way to the cafe. When I visit Kirsten, she and I usually sneak down to the basement for some time of worship at her piano. Such refreshing times. I think that as believers there is such a need for reflection and worship at the alter after hearing the Word. It is the time to allow that seed to get rooted and pray through the STUFF of life that hold s us back. I remember lingering, even as a child till late hours seeking God around the alter. Those were the times that I remember, the CALL, the HEALING, the FILLING. I don't know where I would be without the alter. Humm....Lord revive us. I lay myself, again on the alter. I must take up my cross, DAILY. Stir in me, stir up the gifts that lay dormant inside. I don't know what you want for my life, but I am willing to do what ever it is. Reveal yourself to me.
I really should get to bed. I have a wedding tomorrow, Z still in the hospital, worship practice on Saturday morning, bring Zaachi home, then transport of Xavier to CT., church on Sunday and 4 Dr.s appointments on Monday(2 local & 2 in Philly). I feel overwhelmed thinking about it all. God is good, he will show me how to get it all done, he always does.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
BIG NEWs
Zaachi is in Chemo this week at LVH fourth floor room 19. We are counting down the days. We only have 8 days left of chemo till we are completely done with treatment. Looks like all the surgeries were a success and he is healing very quickly and has had an incredible attitude.
The reality is that in most cases the cancer comes back but there are a few stories of it not coming back. We are believing that we are one of those. We are going to embrace each day and celebrate all that we have. Zaachi will finish this round of Chemo on Friday and we will go back for our last 5 days in a couple of weeks.
I have been longing to tell everyone some news for some time now because it was really affecting my life through this last month. I have been feeling sick to my stomach and experiencing some changes in my body. It appears that we are going to be parents to another child sometime in late January! We have had three miscarriages in the past so we decided to keep the news from our kids till we were past the hump. We told the kids on Sunday and Maggie is already talking to my stomach and wondering when it's coming out. I told her it would get cold outside first, we would have Christmas, and then the baby would come. She ran to the window this morning and said sadly, "It's not snowing". This may be a long 7 months. lol
The timing at first was alarming to me, because I lost my last pregnancy during the stress of treatment, yet I am confident that God has a plan in all of this. I have felt incredible peace. Marc and I went for an ultrasound on Monday and it showed a healthy little one with a strong heartbeat.
"Thank you Lord for the gift of life. Help up be faithful over all you have given us."
I am off to the hospital now to be with Zaachi and Maggie for the day. It gets crazy on the floor with Mag there. Some nurses even play hide n seek with her in the halls. Mag actually begs to go to the hospital with her big brother.
Oh, Saturday, Xavier officially graduated and from High School. He already has his schedule for his fall classes at Northampton. Thank you everyone who gave gifts and expressed your love to him.
Jayden is involved in Evangelism this week at City Limits and is have a wonderful time working and giving to others.
One last update. Some things have fell through with Marc's job and we are praying that there will be a way for him to go full time in his current position or for God to open up other doors for income. We are completely open to what God would have us do.
We are even open to relocating if that is what the Lord would have us do. Marc has a passion for kids and outreach, so keep us in prayer about this.
God Bless!
The reality is that in most cases the cancer comes back but there are a few stories of it not coming back. We are believing that we are one of those. We are going to embrace each day and celebrate all that we have. Zaachi will finish this round of Chemo on Friday and we will go back for our last 5 days in a couple of weeks.
I have been longing to tell everyone some news for some time now because it was really affecting my life through this last month. I have been feeling sick to my stomach and experiencing some changes in my body. It appears that we are going to be parents to another child sometime in late January! We have had three miscarriages in the past so we decided to keep the news from our kids till we were past the hump. We told the kids on Sunday and Maggie is already talking to my stomach and wondering when it's coming out. I told her it would get cold outside first, we would have Christmas, and then the baby would come. She ran to the window this morning and said sadly, "It's not snowing". This may be a long 7 months. lol
The timing at first was alarming to me, because I lost my last pregnancy during the stress of treatment, yet I am confident that God has a plan in all of this. I have felt incredible peace. Marc and I went for an ultrasound on Monday and it showed a healthy little one with a strong heartbeat.
"Thank you Lord for the gift of life. Help up be faithful over all you have given us."
I am off to the hospital now to be with Zaachi and Maggie for the day. It gets crazy on the floor with Mag there. Some nurses even play hide n seek with her in the halls. Mag actually begs to go to the hospital with her big brother.
Oh, Saturday, Xavier officially graduated and from High School. He already has his schedule for his fall classes at Northampton. Thank you everyone who gave gifts and expressed your love to him.
Jayden is involved in Evangelism this week at City Limits and is have a wonderful time working and giving to others.
One last update. Some things have fell through with Marc's job and we are praying that there will be a way for him to go full time in his current position or for God to open up other doors for income. We are completely open to what God would have us do.
We are even open to relocating if that is what the Lord would have us do. Marc has a passion for kids and outreach, so keep us in prayer about this.
God Bless!
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
First Day Back
First Day Back
posted by Susan Telesha, Tuesday, June 15, 2010, 9:30 PM
I allowed myself to sleep in today, I felt I really needed it. Then, Mag jumped in bed with me and we went to check on Zaachi and found him in bed singing:) I think he was glad to be home. We all three had breakfast in the backyard and Zaachi and I really enjoyed the new Anti-Gravity Chairs.
Xavier came down and watched the kids while I took a quick shower and then I started cleaning. Lou came soon after and we were all so excitted to see her. Jayden got home from school early today and was relaxing. Lou and I went in the backyard to catch up on each others worlds. Lou is a new friend that we met through Zaachi and she has been so amazing and careing toward us. Lou was so sweet and took Big Bucca for a walk for me. The twins next door, Tommy and Steven (4 years old) were excited to see Maggie back and they played in the pool and sand for hours together. Then Alex and Lisa stopped by for a little while and the boys made plans to hang out again tonight. Mrs. Marks came by with Boston Market Dinner and we were all so thrilled. She is one of Zaachi's Home Bound Teachers and sweet as can be. So, we ate well. Then everyone left and I sat down for about two minutes when, our case worker came to the door and we met for a while. As she was leaving Jon from a few doors down, a 4 year old little guys who speaks very little English, came by to play with Mag. At the same time as he was coming in so was my dear friend Jessica, the one who runs for Zaachi. she had won a gift certificate for shoes in one of her races and bought Zaachi his first pair of running shoes. She couldn't stay long, but the visit was so thoughtful and sweet. Jon left after about 45 min. and I peeled apples and made Apple Crisp - this was relaxing and fun for me.
For dinner I threw the left overs from Boston Market together and made a Garlic oil pasta to go with the chicken and veggies (very easy and good dish). We all cleaned up TOGETHER tonight which is such a blessing.
Alex came over at 8 for a short but wonderful play date. Then Marc and I sat, just sat for 15 min. .......after that I bathed Maggie, checked on the boys as Lisa came to get Alex and so graciously walked the dog for a minute for me. I had put on a movie for Mag and when I went back up to check on her she was sound asleep, all that playing today really wore her out.
I helped Zaachi up to bed. He didn't ask for any pain meds today. I think he is healing nicely. Now I am sitting down, Marc is with a friend watching the game and the older two are at their brother's house eating. It is quiet finally.
Today was a day of fun with friends, I can clean later.
Tomorrow will be full of meetings and at noon I need to take Xavier over for orientation at North Hampton Community College. When we return we will be going to Zaachi's school end of the year, Carnival.
Looks like we will be starting Chemo at some point next week. I will let everyone know the details ASAP. Marc will be working all week. If anyone wants to take Mag for a play date or sit with Z for awhile, let me know.
posted by Susan Telesha, Tuesday, June 15, 2010, 9:30 PM
I allowed myself to sleep in today, I felt I really needed it. Then, Mag jumped in bed with me and we went to check on Zaachi and found him in bed singing:) I think he was glad to be home. We all three had breakfast in the backyard and Zaachi and I really enjoyed the new Anti-Gravity Chairs.
Xavier came down and watched the kids while I took a quick shower and then I started cleaning. Lou came soon after and we were all so excitted to see her. Jayden got home from school early today and was relaxing. Lou and I went in the backyard to catch up on each others worlds. Lou is a new friend that we met through Zaachi and she has been so amazing and careing toward us. Lou was so sweet and took Big Bucca for a walk for me. The twins next door, Tommy and Steven (4 years old) were excited to see Maggie back and they played in the pool and sand for hours together. Then Alex and Lisa stopped by for a little while and the boys made plans to hang out again tonight. Mrs. Marks came by with Boston Market Dinner and we were all so thrilled. She is one of Zaachi's Home Bound Teachers and sweet as can be. So, we ate well. Then everyone left and I sat down for about two minutes when, our case worker came to the door and we met for a while. As she was leaving Jon from a few doors down, a 4 year old little guys who speaks very little English, came by to play with Mag. At the same time as he was coming in so was my dear friend Jessica, the one who runs for Zaachi. she had won a gift certificate for shoes in one of her races and bought Zaachi his first pair of running shoes. She couldn't stay long, but the visit was so thoughtful and sweet. Jon left after about 45 min. and I peeled apples and made Apple Crisp - this was relaxing and fun for me.
For dinner I threw the left overs from Boston Market together and made a Garlic oil pasta to go with the chicken and veggies (very easy and good dish). We all cleaned up TOGETHER tonight which is such a blessing.
Alex came over at 8 for a short but wonderful play date. Then Marc and I sat, just sat for 15 min. .......after that I bathed Maggie, checked on the boys as Lisa came to get Alex and so graciously walked the dog for a minute for me. I had put on a movie for Mag and when I went back up to check on her she was sound asleep, all that playing today really wore her out.
I helped Zaachi up to bed. He didn't ask for any pain meds today. I think he is healing nicely. Now I am sitting down, Marc is with a friend watching the game and the older two are at their brother's house eating. It is quiet finally.
Today was a day of fun with friends, I can clean later.
Tomorrow will be full of meetings and at noon I need to take Xavier over for orientation at North Hampton Community College. When we return we will be going to Zaachi's school end of the year, Carnival.
Looks like we will be starting Chemo at some point next week. I will let everyone know the details ASAP. Marc will be working all week. If anyone wants to take Mag for a play date or sit with Z for awhile, let me know.
Monday, June 14, 2010
A Huge Turn Around!
A huge Turn Around!
posted by Susan Telesha, Monday, June 14, 2010, 7:45 PM
Today is Monday, and I am sitting in my amazing Sleep Select bed relaxing as I write this blog. Just two days ago I thought I would be sitting with Z still in the hospital. Sunday, the Doc.s came and and started messing with Zaachi's drain hose and they discovered that he did not in fact have a leak in his lung, but a leak in the line. So they pulled the last tube yesterday and he took a walk, They took another xray and decided that he was ready to go home. He walked steps for PT and that was the final challenge. Before leaving me met a young man that just started his battle with Osteo Sarcoma in Feb. He just had his leg surgery and Zaachi was able to meet him and show him what the lung surgery will look like. My heart hurt as I look upon this young athlete crippled with the scares of cancer, know that hard days were yet to come for him. He had so many questions, the most pressing of which was "When does the pain stop?" Oh, Lord be with this family. They asked how Marc and I were holding up, we said, "Much like yourselves, you just keep going, you just pray and do what you can do." I got to pray with this family and we will try to keep up with them through their journey. So many hurting families .......it is overwhelming the pain, emotional and physical, that is encased in that hospital on any given day.
Today I rejoice, Thank You Kathie Brand for the amazing Pizza tonight.. I hadn't looked on the site since my last post and I was so relieved when we got home that I didn't have to quickly make dinner for the kids. We sat in the backyard catching up and eating pizza.
Thank you everyone for all your prayers, this next few weeks will be hard for our little guys but he is well on his way. He is still very fragel and needs much care, but he is home and feeling better every day.
I was contacted the other day by Sarah Martin of the Iron Pigs and she informed me that Zaachi had been nominated and selected as a top 5 All Star for the Iron Pigs. Soon The Morning Call will have a write up in the paper and everyone can vote online for the #1 All Star. If he wins he will be honored as well as have his own Trading Baseball Card. We are proud of him and he is a Brave All Star in my eyes. I will keep you posted as to when you can vote.
Good Night from the loud crazy wonderful Telesha House!
posted by Susan Telesha, Monday, June 14, 2010, 7:45 PM
Today is Monday, and I am sitting in my amazing Sleep Select bed relaxing as I write this blog. Just two days ago I thought I would be sitting with Z still in the hospital. Sunday, the Doc.s came and and started messing with Zaachi's drain hose and they discovered that he did not in fact have a leak in his lung, but a leak in the line. So they pulled the last tube yesterday and he took a walk, They took another xray and decided that he was ready to go home. He walked steps for PT and that was the final challenge. Before leaving me met a young man that just started his battle with Osteo Sarcoma in Feb. He just had his leg surgery and Zaachi was able to meet him and show him what the lung surgery will look like. My heart hurt as I look upon this young athlete crippled with the scares of cancer, know that hard days were yet to come for him. He had so many questions, the most pressing of which was "When does the pain stop?" Oh, Lord be with this family. They asked how Marc and I were holding up, we said, "Much like yourselves, you just keep going, you just pray and do what you can do." I got to pray with this family and we will try to keep up with them through their journey. So many hurting families .......it is overwhelming the pain, emotional and physical, that is encased in that hospital on any given day.
Today I rejoice, Thank You Kathie Brand for the amazing Pizza tonight.. I hadn't looked on the site since my last post and I was so relieved when we got home that I didn't have to quickly make dinner for the kids. We sat in the backyard catching up and eating pizza.
Thank you everyone for all your prayers, this next few weeks will be hard for our little guys but he is well on his way. He is still very fragel and needs much care, but he is home and feeling better every day.
I was contacted the other day by Sarah Martin of the Iron Pigs and she informed me that Zaachi had been nominated and selected as a top 5 All Star for the Iron Pigs. Soon The Morning Call will have a write up in the paper and everyone can vote online for the #1 All Star. If he wins he will be honored as well as have his own Trading Baseball Card. We are proud of him and he is a Brave All Star in my eyes. I will keep you posted as to when you can vote.
Good Night from the loud crazy wonderful Telesha House!
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