We are plugging away at daily routines:
*Homeschooling with extra work for Lamb 1 to prepare him for high school and Lamb 2 and 3 concentrating on learning to read and spell.
*Our whole family is attending a weekly Bible study on Voyage of the Dawn Treader, the book of Mark, and the Small Catechism. We do the readings together to prepare for weekly quizzes.
*Lamb 2 and 3 are working on memorizing the meanings for the 6 chief parts of the catechism with the goal of confirmation in May.
*All 3 Lambs are practicing for a piano contest in March.
Update on my dad:
He became so weak at the beginning of February that he fell a few times. The paramedics recommended he go to the hospital and get checked out. The hospital was overcrowded and he waited several hours to get a room. He did have the flu and was much better after a few days in the hospital. We thought maybe he would go to a place for rehab, but not counting the hours he was in the hospital hallway that he wasn't officially a patient, he wasn't in the hospital long enough for insurance to pay for rehab. He went directly home and has been doing great since he has been home. We even took him to a high school basketball game last Friday. It is not easy as your parents get older and prayers are appreciated.
Vision Therapy Again:
Lamb 2 competed a long evaluation with a doctor here. We don't regret doing vision therapy in Idaho because it was helpful for several areas for him, but it wasn't enough. He is beginning vision therapy here at the end of the month. This doctor does things differently than our ID doctor and we are hoping these different ways of doing things are going to be helpful for Lamb 2. This doctor does 1 time a week therapy with 20 minutes of daily homework. Lamb 2 will get bifocals. He has 20/20 vision and can see fine in the distance. He doesn't truly need glasses for close up work, but the hope is that this will ease the stress on his eyes as they try to focus to see near work. We are expecting at least a year of therapy here. One nice thing is you pay one price and it covers everything (therapy, doctor exams, computer software for homework, etc.) no matter how long therapy takes. This is different than Idaho and is much better to know exactly how much it costs. Lamb 2 was very excited to go pick out his glasses and is impatiently waiting for them to come in.
After Lamb 2 begins, then we would like this doctor to also evaluate Lamb 3. For a long time he had no motivation to learn to read. Now he does and reading is very difficult for him. I am curious if he also has a vision difficulty and would also benefit from Vision Therapy.
Library volunteer:
A classical school started at our church this year. Our boys are too old as they began with lower grades and are working their way up, but Lamb 2 and 3 take art class there. I volunteered to help with the school library. It has been so much fun to get the books ready for the school children. Most are donated or library discards. The headmaster and his wife are choosing quality literature for the school. It is so fun to see what she finds on the 20 cent library discard shelves.
Lilla Rose:
I just signed up to be a Lilla Rose consultant. I'll blog more about this as I learn more, but if you don't currently have a consultant, contact me for more info if you are interested. I have been wearing Lilla Rose hair clips for about 10 years and I figured it was about time that I had a business card to hand to people when I get a compliment!
Dentist:
Our whole family went at once for dental cleanings and checkups. We all did well except one Lamb needs a tiny filling. Lamb 2 needs an orthodontist consultation because his teeth are so close together plus there is a problem with his canines. After dental checkups we are all extra good about brushing AND flossing AND using mouthwash for awhile...
Cooking:
While Ram is in school I have had to do more cooking than while he was a pastor. I was getting tired of the same old recipes and often 1 or 2 Lambs don't like what I make. I did a little research in my cookbooks and on the Internet to get some new recipes to try. Last night I made beef stew and it went fast even though only one Lamb had more than one helping. Today I made beef vegetable soup and we'll see how that goes tomorrow. I have some more recipes to try this week. The Lambs were shocked that I cooked something new two days in a row!
Showing posts with label prayers. Show all posts
Showing posts with label prayers. Show all posts
Monday, February 12, 2018
Friday, January 12, 2018
Year in Review-October 2017
 |
| We attended several Reformation services in honor of the 500th anniversary. October 1 was a service at St. Paul's, Fort Wayne. Afterwards they served a nice German meal. It was a nice time to visit with friends from several area churches. |
 |
| These photos should have been posted in September, but the Lambs received their summer reading prizes from CPH. Lamb 2 won a big prize in the program, the Illuminated Catechism, which I already posted a photo. Here was his kids prize. |
 |
| Lamb 1's prize. |
 |
| Lamb 3's prize. It is so nice of CPH to do this for the kids! I saved the Sunday School Bible Discovery Guides from the Lambs, but it was nice to get it all in one volume here. |
 |
| We began the admission process for Lamb 1 to go to high school. I will post more about this later, it was a little more complicated because he has been homeschooled, but it was not impossible. |
 |
| The last cross country meet was in October. The other 8th grade moms were a little teary after a few years together on this team. This was our first year so I was relieved that chauffeuring was done for a few months. I really hope that Lamb 1 continues cross country in high school, but it will be his choice and there are many high school activities to choose from. This was a great group of 8th graders. I look forward to cross country with Lamb 2 on this team again next year. |
 |
 |
| We couldn't have asked for more beautiful weather for all the cross country meets this year. |
 |
| Our church took part in one day of 40 days of Life by standing outside Planned Parenthood and praying for pregnant mothers. It was one of the first colder days and many of us were really bundled up that day. After a very mild fall no one was really ready to wear hats and gloves that day. The Lambs are "tough" boys and kept most of their winter gear in the car for most of the time we were there. It was a sad reason to be together, but a time to fellowship and pray together. Another reason I am glad that we homeschool and take our boys to times like this. Some kids came after school, but we were there at the beginning of the afternoon.
I don't have any pictures to show, but I took the Lambs to the Reformation service on October 31 at Concordia Theological Seminary. We arrived really early and waited so that we would have a seat. Unfortunately Ram had class and a Catholic college was not going to allow him to attend a Reformation service as an excuse to miss class. The service was beautiful and wonderful to sing Lutheran hymns with a packed chapel of Lutherans, hear the beautiful choirs, and hear Rev. Harrison preach again. Afterwards I took the Lambs out for ice cream. It was strange for them to not go trick-or-treating or a Halloween party, but Reformation 500 trumped Halloween! Lamb 1 was especially glad that he was able to attend instead of just watching it online. I think we gave the Lambs memories of Reformation this year that they will tell their grandchildren about. I am so glad that the Lambs are old enough where we could arrive early and they could participate for the whole service. It got to be a really long evening, but not impossible for them.
|
Tuesday, November 8, 2016
Stonesetters Verse
The Lambs were required to memorize this verse and recite it daily during the month of January. Now that we moved away we won't be able to attend Stonesetters next year, but this verse will always be in our memories.
First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. 1 Timothy 2:1
This verse has run though my head almost every day since we worked on memorizing it even though we quit reciting it as a family after we attended Stonesetters in January. We pray for the American people that go to the voting booth today and for those elected to high positions.
First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. 1 Timothy 2:1
This verse has run though my head almost every day since we worked on memorizing it even though we quit reciting it as a family after we attended Stonesetters in January. We pray for the American people that go to the voting booth today and for those elected to high positions.
Tuesday, October 15, 2013
Pregnancy and Infant Loss Day
Today is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Day. It is bittersweet that our family has added two little lambs to heaven since this day last year. I looked back over my blog on this date the past few years: 2009, 2011, and 2012.
Let us then approach God's throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
Hebrews 4:16
Today I included in my prayers both my friends that I know personally are affected and also those whom I do not know. I also prayed for their families including their husbands, parents, siblings, and other children. I prayed for women with fertility problems; who have had a miscarriage or an infant die; and those that have had an abortion. I prayed for my 9 sisters in Christ that I met at the He Remembers the Barren Retreat this summer. I prayed that all women affected by pregnancy and infant loss get the peace that passes all understanding through Christ.
Let us then approach God's throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
Hebrews 4:16
Today I included in my prayers both my friends that I know personally are affected and also those whom I do not know. I also prayed for their families including their husbands, parents, siblings, and other children. I prayed for women with fertility problems; who have had a miscarriage or an infant die; and those that have had an abortion. I prayed for my 9 sisters in Christ that I met at the He Remembers the Barren Retreat this summer. I prayed that all women affected by pregnancy and infant loss get the peace that passes all understanding through Christ.
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Prayer Requests
1. My mom has surgery today to replace the batteries in her pacemaker. They plan to replace the whole unit. When she got her pacemaker it was supposed to be simple and she ended up in the hospital for almost 2 weeks. Please pray for this to go smoothly and for her to be able to go home from the hospital quickly. She has had her pacemaker about 4 1/2 years and she didn't expect to need batteries replaced so soon.
2. I see the OB/GYN and the doctor for my thyroid in the next few days. Please pray for safe travel, clear thinking to answer the questions, and for wisdom for my doctors. It wouldn't hurt to pray that the nurse is kind too, we didn't seem to get along very well before. I like the doctor though.
2. I see the OB/GYN and the doctor for my thyroid in the next few days. Please pray for safe travel, clear thinking to answer the questions, and for wisdom for my doctors. It wouldn't hurt to pray that the nurse is kind too, we didn't seem to get along very well before. I like the doctor though.
Sunday, May 8, 2011
Happy Mother's Day!
I had several ideas for Mother's Day posts that just didn't happen and here it is almost midnight after a very busy weekend filled with Mother's Day events for my family. I'll try to post photos later this week.
Psalm 113
Praise the Lord!
Praise, O servants of the Lord,
praise the name of the Lord!
Blessed be the name of the Lord
from this time forth and forevermore!
From the rising of the sun to its setting,
the name of the Lord is to be praised!
The Lord is high above all nations,
and his glory above the heavens!
Who is like the Lord our God,
who is seated on high,
who looks far down
on the heavens and the earth?
He raises the poor from the dust
and lifts the needy from the ash heap,
to make them sit with princes,
with the princes of his people.
He gives the barren woman a home,
making her the joyous mother of children.
Praise the Lord!
The pastor (not Ram) that came to visit me when Lamb 3 was born led us in this hymn.
Now thank we all our God
With hearts and hands and voices,
Who wonderous things has done,
In who His world rejoices;
Who from our mothers' arms
Has blest us on our way
With countless gifts of love
And still is ours today.
LSB 895:1
Our prayers at church included all mothers, all women who do not have children, and those whose children are estranged from them.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
2 weeks
I always looked forward to the newborn checkups for our Lambs, even though their pediatrician is 1 1/2 hours away. I was always glad that we had "survived" the first two weeks and hoped they had put on some weight during that time. I vividly remember all of their 2 week checkups even though much of the rest of those two weeks has been forgotten.
I have my 2 week check up today. I have done this enough times that I know what to expect. There is such a difference between an ultrasound when you are pregnant and one when you are not. There is a big difference between stepping on a scale when you are pregnant and when you are not (or you don't have a baby sitting in the car seat while you get on the scale). The insurance statements/bills are starting to come. We have plenty of medical money left for the year, I just hate to spend it this way.
Today's appointment is just with my local doctor. Later this month I will also see my doctor for my thyroid and my OB/GYN. Those appointments will have much more information for us to process-today's appointment is pretty routine.
Prayers are appreciated today for me to get through this necessary appointment-especially to think clearly to answer questions and keep it together. I think I'll take a good book with me and hope that there is a long wait so I can have some time to myself.
I have my 2 week check up today. I have done this enough times that I know what to expect. There is such a difference between an ultrasound when you are pregnant and one when you are not. There is a big difference between stepping on a scale when you are pregnant and when you are not (or you don't have a baby sitting in the car seat while you get on the scale). The insurance statements/bills are starting to come. We have plenty of medical money left for the year, I just hate to spend it this way.
Today's appointment is just with my local doctor. Later this month I will also see my doctor for my thyroid and my OB/GYN. Those appointments will have much more information for us to process-today's appointment is pretty routine.
Prayers are appreciated today for me to get through this necessary appointment-especially to think clearly to answer questions and keep it together. I think I'll take a good book with me and hope that there is a long wait so I can have some time to myself.
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Trusting God
Now that I'm pregnant and also trying to drink lots of water, I go to the bathroom A LOT. I saw the ultrasound of one of our babies that was just fine one week and the following week we lost that baby. I've had 3 miscarriages. Due to the nightmares of those and some other issues in previous pregnancies, I get nervous EVERY. SINGLE. TIME. I go to the bathroom when I am pregnant. Before we lost our third baby, I always thought that seeing the ultrasound would be enough to calm me down that everything was well with baby. I have not had an ultrasound with this pregnancy. Seeing an ultrasound is not enough to calm me down any more. I believe I will calm down more after the baby in my womb has outlived all 3 of our babies in heaven, but it will be in the back of my mind until I am holding Lamb 4 in my arms.
I have done a little research about my blood clotting disorder called Factor II. After my little research it is amazing to me that it was so easy for me to get pregnant 7 times and even more amazing that we have 3 healthy boys. It is amazing that during each of the pregnancies/births/postpartums of all 3 boys I had very few problems. Sometimes I wonder "What if I would have known I had Factor II before any of my pregnancies?" Maybe it is better that I was naive about the whole situation and when I wasn't sick with morning sickness I enjoyed my first pregnancy without the facts about Factor II in the back of my mind. I would have totally freaked out when I had spotting with Lamb 2 if I would have known about Factor II then. But perhaps Lamb 3 would have gained more weight if I would have known about Factor II then. It doesn't really matter because the fact is that we have 3 healthy boys and now I have the knowledge that I have this for this pregnancy and any future pregnancies.
The Lambs really want another sibling, preferably a sister. They completely trust that in November they will have a sibling. They are completely naive that we could lose the baby before then. I know that if we would lose the baby, they would completely trust that it is in heaven and not grieve it too much-other than the fact that they lost the hope of getting a dollhouse and girl toys in our house in November. I can not be completely naive about the situation like they are, but I can trust in God.
Starting the next time I go to the bathroom, I am going to recite Bible verses and pray about this situation. Think of how many times I will recite Bible verses and all the prayers I will say over the next 240 days! That sounds like a much better way to spend all those trips to the bathroom instead of worrying.
I have done a little research about my blood clotting disorder called Factor II. After my little research it is amazing to me that it was so easy for me to get pregnant 7 times and even more amazing that we have 3 healthy boys. It is amazing that during each of the pregnancies/births/postpartums of all 3 boys I had very few problems. Sometimes I wonder "What if I would have known I had Factor II before any of my pregnancies?" Maybe it is better that I was naive about the whole situation and when I wasn't sick with morning sickness I enjoyed my first pregnancy without the facts about Factor II in the back of my mind. I would have totally freaked out when I had spotting with Lamb 2 if I would have known about Factor II then. But perhaps Lamb 3 would have gained more weight if I would have known about Factor II then. It doesn't really matter because the fact is that we have 3 healthy boys and now I have the knowledge that I have this for this pregnancy and any future pregnancies.
The Lambs really want another sibling, preferably a sister. They completely trust that in November they will have a sibling. They are completely naive that we could lose the baby before then. I know that if we would lose the baby, they would completely trust that it is in heaven and not grieve it too much-other than the fact that they lost the hope of getting a dollhouse and girl toys in our house in November. I can not be completely naive about the situation like they are, but I can trust in God.
Starting the next time I go to the bathroom, I am going to recite Bible verses and pray about this situation. Think of how many times I will recite Bible verses and all the prayers I will say over the next 240 days! That sounds like a much better way to spend all those trips to the bathroom instead of worrying.
"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble." Psalm 46:1
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Fourth Day of Christmas
If you have not read my post from the First Day of Christmas, please go back and read that post first.
Christmas Quiz part 2 ANSWERS-How well do you know the Biblical Christmas story?
Which of the following are mentioned in the Biblical Christmas story?
donkey
camels
inn (Luke 2:7)
manger (Luke 2:7)
cave
house where Jesus lived (Matthew 2:9)
elephants
candle(s)
census (Luke 2:1-2)
ritual law (Luke 2:22 and 2:39)
prophetess (Luke 2:36)
dream(s) (Matthew 1:20, 2:13)
What was the financial condition of Mary and Joseph before the Magi came? (Poor, but not dirt poor-middle/lower class. At the Presentation they gave 2 doves. If they would have had more money they would have given a lamb. If they would have been more poor they would have given grain. See Luke 2:24, Exodus 13:2, and Leviticus 12:1-8 and 5:11.)
What is the significance of the name Mary? (Girls names reflected the situation of Jewish people. Miriam means bitter. Mary comes from Miriam. See Exodus 15:23.)
What references to Jesus' death are in the Christmas story? (Simeon's warning to Mary at the Presentation in Luke 2:35. Myrrh was royal funeral perfume in Matthew 2:11.)
Our Christmas Ornaments part 4
Today is our anniversary so I thought I would feature some ornaments given to us at our wedding.
The angel tree topper was given by one of the teachers at Zion as a wedding present. The Indianapolis ornament was purchased on our honeymoon to Indianapolis. The cake ornament was given by one of the pastors that helped with our wedding. The bear ornament was given by Ewe's sister, Hannah, for our first anniversary. Happy 9th Anniversary to Ram and Ewe!
T. Baker family, I want to add that you have been in our prayers daily for the last year, and even more this week and today. This is a bittersweet anniversary for us. "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble." (Psalm 46:1)
Christmas Quiz part 2 ANSWERS-How well do you know the Biblical Christmas story?
Which of the following are mentioned in the Biblical Christmas story?
inn (Luke 2:7)
manger (Luke 2:7)
house where Jesus lived (Matthew 2:9)
census (Luke 2:1-2)
ritual law (Luke 2:22 and 2:39)
prophetess (Luke 2:36)
dream(s) (Matthew 1:20, 2:13)
What was the financial condition of Mary and Joseph before the Magi came? (Poor, but not dirt poor-middle/lower class. At the Presentation they gave 2 doves. If they would have had more money they would have given a lamb. If they would have been more poor they would have given grain. See Luke 2:24, Exodus 13:2, and Leviticus 12:1-8 and 5:11.)
What is the significance of the name Mary? (Girls names reflected the situation of Jewish people. Miriam means bitter. Mary comes from Miriam. See Exodus 15:23.)
What references to Jesus' death are in the Christmas story? (Simeon's warning to Mary at the Presentation in Luke 2:35. Myrrh was royal funeral perfume in Matthew 2:11.)
Our Christmas Ornaments part 4
Today is our anniversary so I thought I would feature some ornaments given to us at our wedding.
T. Baker family, I want to add that you have been in our prayers daily for the last year, and even more this week and today. This is a bittersweet anniversary for us. "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble." (Psalm 46:1)
Thursday, December 9, 2010
2 Blog posts worth reading
Today is a very busy day, but I wanted to link to two blogs.
1. A friend from college, Rev. Aaron Kangas, posted some Kantorei to You Tube. Father Hollywood posted some of the hymns here. We own this CD, but it was nice to see some Lutheran hymns on You Tube.
2. A Looper family has a son that is fighting for his life after a transplant. I have met John's mom, Gina, at Mamapoolozas. Some of the Loopers are doing some special things for John's birthday and to help out their family. I don't do Facebook so I'm always behind on news, but here is the latest posted to her blog. I have tried Maryann's beans that are mentioned and they are excellent. Please keep John and his family in your prayers.
1. A friend from college, Rev. Aaron Kangas, posted some Kantorei to You Tube. Father Hollywood posted some of the hymns here. We own this CD, but it was nice to see some Lutheran hymns on You Tube.
2. A Looper family has a son that is fighting for his life after a transplant. I have met John's mom, Gina, at Mamapoolozas. Some of the Loopers are doing some special things for John's birthday and to help out their family. I don't do Facebook so I'm always behind on news, but here is the latest posted to her blog. I have tried Maryann's beans that are mentioned and they are excellent. Please keep John and his family in your prayers.
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Advent Blessing from President Harrison
Advent Blessing from President Harrison from VimeoLCMS on Vimeo.
HT: Rev. Weedon
I have been wanting to post something about Advent on my blog and I didn't have time or an internet connection until tonight. Then I found this video from Rev. Harrison. I found this video interesting especially because I was one of Rev. Harrison's former members. Times change and the years go by and Rev. Harrison is no longer my parish pastor. This sounds cheesy, but watching this video was like going home to my home church for the holidays to hear a short devotion. This was very similar to a devotion that he would have given while I was on staff teaching at Zion, Fort Wayne. May God bless and keep Rev. Harrison and his family along with the other staff and their families at the LCMS International Center.
Friday, November 26, 2010
A HUGE Unexpected Blessing
We received the bill from Mayo for Ram's surgery a few days ago. The total bill for doctor and hospital was over $66,000. We were expecting to be billed 20% of that. Ram opened the mail and handed it to me. It was UNBELIEVABLE, our portion after insurance was just $50! I'm sure there will be other bills and this bill from Mayo is not the end, but we were expecting a much larger bill for major surgery. The $50 was the copayments for two doctor visits! Lamb 2 needed a small filling the week before Ram's surgery and our bill for that was double what Ram's major surgery was. I have several stories of how God has truly worked out ALL the details before and after Ram's surgery, but this one is the best! Thank you, Jesus!
Saturday, November 20, 2010
LWML Quarterly prayer
Hear my voice when I call, O Lord; be merciful to me and answer me. My heart says of you, "Seek his face!" Your face, Lord, I will seek. Psalm 27:7-8
Prayer adapted from Winter 2010 LWML Quarterly...page 16.
Oh, Lord, You know how much my husband and I long to have another child, but it seems as though that is not going to happen. It is difficult to know what further steps, if any, we should take. We need Your guidance and wisdom in making a decision for the future of our family.
Lord, we need to place this great concern totally in Your capable hands as we continue to pray for another child of our own. If that is in Your plan, we will rejoice in the miracle You will perform. If having another child is not to be, we pray for Your strength to accept that and to keep us mindful that we are already a family of 5.
Please continue to encourage us to be good examples to our 3 lambs. Let our time with them bring joy to our hearts as we continue to serve You. In the name of Your own dear Son, Jesus. Amen.
Disclaimer: I hope that adapting this prayer for our family does not offend couples that do not have any children and are praying a child. Ram and I mourn the loss of three Lambs and as we get closer to the first anniversary of our last miscarriage this is on my mind. I have sympathy for my friends TTC, but I can not identify personally with that problem. Only as I have walked this road have I realized how difficult it is when you long for more children, no matter if you already have 0 or 10 children.
Prayer adapted from Winter 2010 LWML Quarterly...page 16.
Oh, Lord, You know how much my husband and I long to have another child, but it seems as though that is not going to happen. It is difficult to know what further steps, if any, we should take. We need Your guidance and wisdom in making a decision for the future of our family.
Lord, we need to place this great concern totally in Your capable hands as we continue to pray for another child of our own. If that is in Your plan, we will rejoice in the miracle You will perform. If having another child is not to be, we pray for Your strength to accept that and to keep us mindful that we are already a family of 5.
Please continue to encourage us to be good examples to our 3 lambs. Let our time with them bring joy to our hearts as we continue to serve You. In the name of Your own dear Son, Jesus. Amen.
Disclaimer: I hope that adapting this prayer for our family does not offend couples that do not have any children and are praying a child. Ram and I mourn the loss of three Lambs and as we get closer to the first anniversary of our last miscarriage this is on my mind. I have sympathy for my friends TTC, but I can not identify personally with that problem. Only as I have walked this road have I realized how difficult it is when you long for more children, no matter if you already have 0 or 10 children.
Friday, November 12, 2010
One of many blessings
1. I've been hesitant to post this because I'm afraid people will not understand what I am writing here. We have been very blessed through this experience. Please DO NOT send us money after reading this post.
2. There are many many stories I could tell about how God was with us through the whole experience of Ram's surgery. God truly worked out every detail-even working out details that I had not thought of. I do plan to eventually post many of the blessings because it was so amazing to me that I want to share. I haven't quite worked out what to call these posts. I haven't made a list of these blessings yet. #3 was so amazing that I had to share it now.
3. First, I want to explain that Ram had lots of expensive medical tests done this summer before they found the tumor. He had a physical in June that started the process. We lost count of how many blood tests they did and they were not just routine blood tests. He saw 2 different specialists plus his regular doctor multiple times. He had a bone marrow biopsy. He had a colonoscopy and endoscopy. He had 2 CT scans. All of that was before he went to Mayo.
We chose to have the church move us from plan B to plan C insurance last year. We figured we were relatively healthy so it would save the church money to be on plan C. We had no idea when we made that decision that Ram would need major surgery. So copayments and medical bills are up from what we would have on plan B.
We had received bills for the first CT scan Ram had and the insurance statements matched up. God has provided for our medical bills so I wasn't worried, but I expected to see bills for his second CT scan that were equal to the first CT scan. He also saw a specialist that day that he had a second CT scan. So I was expecting to receive a bill for the specialist visit that day plus several bills for the second CT scan.
Last week we received a bill for the second CT scan plus the specialist he saw that day. I am amazed that the bill was for $25 copayment to see the specialist plus ZERO for the CT scan. This total bill was over $5000. After insurance we owe just $25. Now I know that there will probably be more than one bill for each CT scan. I know that insurance has not sent us a statement to verify this. But receiving a bill means more than a statement to me. It is AMAZING to me that our insurance paid almost $5000 for this day.
Thank you Jesus, that we received a paid in full bill for an expensive test before he got to Mayo.
2. There are many many stories I could tell about how God was with us through the whole experience of Ram's surgery. God truly worked out every detail-even working out details that I had not thought of. I do plan to eventually post many of the blessings because it was so amazing to me that I want to share. I haven't quite worked out what to call these posts. I haven't made a list of these blessings yet. #3 was so amazing that I had to share it now.
3. First, I want to explain that Ram had lots of expensive medical tests done this summer before they found the tumor. He had a physical in June that started the process. We lost count of how many blood tests they did and they were not just routine blood tests. He saw 2 different specialists plus his regular doctor multiple times. He had a bone marrow biopsy. He had a colonoscopy and endoscopy. He had 2 CT scans. All of that was before he went to Mayo.
We chose to have the church move us from plan B to plan C insurance last year. We figured we were relatively healthy so it would save the church money to be on plan C. We had no idea when we made that decision that Ram would need major surgery. So copayments and medical bills are up from what we would have on plan B.
We had received bills for the first CT scan Ram had and the insurance statements matched up. God has provided for our medical bills so I wasn't worried, but I expected to see bills for his second CT scan that were equal to the first CT scan. He also saw a specialist that day that he had a second CT scan. So I was expecting to receive a bill for the specialist visit that day plus several bills for the second CT scan.
Last week we received a bill for the second CT scan plus the specialist he saw that day. I am amazed that the bill was for $25 copayment to see the specialist plus ZERO for the CT scan. This total bill was over $5000. After insurance we owe just $25. Now I know that there will probably be more than one bill for each CT scan. I know that insurance has not sent us a statement to verify this. But receiving a bill means more than a statement to me. It is AMAZING to me that our insurance paid almost $5000 for this day.
Thank you Jesus, that we received a paid in full bill for an expensive test before he got to Mayo.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Prayer Request-UPDATED
My friend Gina, her son, John, received word that the organs he needs are waiting for him for his transplant. She blogged about the transplant here a few weeks ago. The surgery will be tomorrow. Thank you, Jesus, for providing the organs a few weeks after he was listed as needing a transplant.
Please pray for:
*Mark and Gina to have strength to be good parents through all this. I'm sure during recovery Mark and Gina will be separated while Gina stays at the hospital and Mark goes back home. Especially pray for Mark and Gina during the long waiting time of 5+ hours of surgery.
*John to be strong.
*The doctors and nurses to do their job well-both at the surgery and as they care for John after the surgery.
*The transplant to be successful.
*Their dog to be cared for while they are at the hospital.
*The family that was so generous to give the organs from their child at their time of grief.
*That ALL the details are worked out for them at both the hospital and at home during this time of surgery and recovery.
*That the financial details are worked out too.
*That they have spiritual care from a pastor near the hospital.
*Their church members while their pastor, Mark, is at the hospital.
*Mark as he travels back and forth from the hospital to home. Good weather for Mark to travel.
*Their house and car to be safe and work properly while they are at the hospital.
*Mark and Gina to remain healthy while they take care of John while he recovers.
*Swift recovery and few complications during John's recovery.
After Ram's surgery I have a better understanding of surgery since I never had surgery before. I still can't even imagine what Mark and Gina are going through during this. Please join me in praying for them.
11/12/10 8AM UPDATE: I should have posted this sooner, but it was a crazy day for them yesterday. They traveled to the hospital on Wednesday and the surgery was scheduled for Thursday. The organs were too damaged to use. John was released from the hospital. They wait for God's perfect timing.
After he was released from the hospital, the hospital called that John had an infection. They had the choice of going back to that hospital or going to their hospital closer to home. They know the staff and doctors at the hospital closer to home so they chose to go there. I don't do Facebook so I don't have a more up to date update, but the last I heard they were traveling to that hospital closer to home and they expect John to be in the hospital for at least 4 days.
They did a lot of traveling the last few days. They have had a lot of emotions getting ready for the surgery and then not having the surgery and then he is sick. They have to wait longer for the transplant. Please continue to keep them in your prayers.
Please pray for:
*Mark and Gina to have strength to be good parents through all this. I'm sure during recovery Mark and Gina will be separated while Gina stays at the hospital and Mark goes back home. Especially pray for Mark and Gina during the long waiting time of 5+ hours of surgery.
*John to be strong.
*The doctors and nurses to do their job well-both at the surgery and as they care for John after the surgery.
*The transplant to be successful.
*Their dog to be cared for while they are at the hospital.
*The family that was so generous to give the organs from their child at their time of grief.
*That ALL the details are worked out for them at both the hospital and at home during this time of surgery and recovery.
*That the financial details are worked out too.
*That they have spiritual care from a pastor near the hospital.
*Their church members while their pastor, Mark, is at the hospital.
*Mark as he travels back and forth from the hospital to home. Good weather for Mark to travel.
*Their house and car to be safe and work properly while they are at the hospital.
*Mark and Gina to remain healthy while they take care of John while he recovers.
*Swift recovery and few complications during John's recovery.
After Ram's surgery I have a better understanding of surgery since I never had surgery before. I still can't even imagine what Mark and Gina are going through during this. Please join me in praying for them.
11/12/10 8AM UPDATE: I should have posted this sooner, but it was a crazy day for them yesterday. They traveled to the hospital on Wednesday and the surgery was scheduled for Thursday. The organs were too damaged to use. John was released from the hospital. They wait for God's perfect timing.
After he was released from the hospital, the hospital called that John had an infection. They had the choice of going back to that hospital or going to their hospital closer to home. They know the staff and doctors at the hospital closer to home so they chose to go there. I don't do Facebook so I don't have a more up to date update, but the last I heard they were traveling to that hospital closer to home and they expect John to be in the hospital for at least 4 days.
They did a lot of traveling the last few days. They have had a lot of emotions getting ready for the surgery and then not having the surgery and then he is sick. They have to wait longer for the transplant. Please continue to keep them in your prayers.
Friday, September 24, 2010
Pastors aren't supposed to get sick
The few times that I've been sick since I became a Mama, we've always joked that "Mamas don't have time to get sick".
As we get ready to go to Mayo next week, it's clear to me that pastors aren't supposed to get sick either. All the area pastors have offered to do hospital visits for Ram if necessary while he recovers. One even went 3 hours away today to visit someone for Ram. The church members have told Ram to get healthy and they would survive while he is gone-not to worry about his work as a pastor as there are other area pastors to cover for him-just worry about getting healthy. Many friends and family and churches all over the United States are praying for Ram.
Ram spent most of today visiting people and he will have to prepare for this Sunday's services and he also has a funeral committal service tomorrow. But then he trusts the area pastors to help him until he recovers and returns to his pastoral duties.
Ram has visited many people as pastor and now he is going to be the patient. I am going to be the spouse instead of the one sending cards and checking to see how the patient is. One Looper told me about a pastor she knew in Rochester, a member told us a good LCMS church near Mayo, and another Looper told me a pastor 1/2 hour away from Mayo that we actually knew a little. So we now have pastors to contact to help us when Ram is on the opposite side of the bed in the hospital room.
*More prayer requests-that we are able to complete everything we need to get done here before we leave-it's difficult when we don't know when we will return. Pray for my wisdom in what to pack for our trip. I have garden veggies to freeze plus everything else that needs to be done after our vacation earlier this month that I put off until we returned home. Plus everything that also needs to be done before a regular vacation like cleaning out the refrigerator. Pray that the boys help while we prepare for next week too.
Thank you for all your prayers and e-mails and comments. Everyone has been as helpful as possible no matter how many miles are between us!
As we get ready to go to Mayo next week, it's clear to me that pastors aren't supposed to get sick either. All the area pastors have offered to do hospital visits for Ram if necessary while he recovers. One even went 3 hours away today to visit someone for Ram. The church members have told Ram to get healthy and they would survive while he is gone-not to worry about his work as a pastor as there are other area pastors to cover for him-just worry about getting healthy. Many friends and family and churches all over the United States are praying for Ram.
Ram spent most of today visiting people and he will have to prepare for this Sunday's services and he also has a funeral committal service tomorrow. But then he trusts the area pastors to help him until he recovers and returns to his pastoral duties.
Ram has visited many people as pastor and now he is going to be the patient. I am going to be the spouse instead of the one sending cards and checking to see how the patient is. One Looper told me about a pastor she knew in Rochester, a member told us a good LCMS church near Mayo, and another Looper told me a pastor 1/2 hour away from Mayo that we actually knew a little. So we now have pastors to contact to help us when Ram is on the opposite side of the bed in the hospital room.
*More prayer requests-that we are able to complete everything we need to get done here before we leave-it's difficult when we don't know when we will return. Pray for my wisdom in what to pack for our trip. I have garden veggies to freeze plus everything else that needs to be done after our vacation earlier this month that I put off until we returned home. Plus everything that also needs to be done before a regular vacation like cleaning out the refrigerator. Pray that the boys help while we prepare for next week too.
Thank you for all your prayers and e-mails and comments. Everyone has been as helpful as possible no matter how many miles are between us!
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Huge Prayer Request-Interruption in Vacation posting
It may be awhile before I return to posting about our fall vacation.
Ram went for a physical in June and his blood work was abnormal. The doctors kept thinking they finally found what was wrong, but their assumptions were always not quite right. Ram met with two doctors today and they finally found what was wrong. He has a mass growing on his kidney that has a very good chance of being cancer. They will not know for sure if it is cancer until he has the mass removed. Ram will go to Mayo next week to meet with a specialist and there is a very good chance that a few days later he will have this surgery. There will be about 6 weeks recovery time. We don't have a laptop or a smart phone and I don't do Facebook, so I have no idea when I will be able to post, but I will try to keep you updated.
Prayer requests:
*Ram to get healthy
*Doctors to do what is best for Ram
*Ewe to navigate Mayo (we have had a few church members there, but we have never been there)
*Lambs to survive being out of their routine, we don't even know what is happening to prepare them, plus they are Papa's boys
*safe travel
*all four of our parents may be coming to help-safe travel for them and if they do come that the details will work out for them to come
*that this surgery is the end of Ram's medical adventures for now
Thank you, Jesus, for:
*I am thankful they found this before it spread to other parts of Ram's body.
*The first diagnosis Ram was given earlier this summer said that Ram would need to take a pill for the rest of his life that is not usually given to someone as young as him and could cause birth defects. We are hoping that our family size is not done yet, so we prayed that there was a different pill he could take or the doctor would find another answer. We had no idea his diagnosis would take this turn when we prayed.
*I am thankful that we began doctoring about a year ago with a new doctor that was very careful and kept ordering new tests and sending Ram to different specialists until she got to the bottom of this. I'm not sure an average doctor would have even done a blood test on hemoglobin on a 35 year old in the first place. That abnormal number started all this earlier this summer. We have always liked our new doctor, now we love her!
*I am thankful that Ram came back early from our vacation so he had a doctor's appointment while we were still gone where they discovered this answer.
*I am thankful that we live in the same state as Mayo and have been given the gift of a doctor that does this surgery as his specialty. (I won't complain of how far from Mayo we live though!)
*I am thankful that my dad can come help Ram with preaching while Ram recovers.
*I am thankful that we homeschool so we can deal with this without worrying about getting Lamb 1 to school daily.
*I am thankful for church members that have been understanding at this time.
*I am thankful we bought the CD titled Hymns of Comfort and Hope to listen to now.
*I am thankful for health insurance.
*I am thankful that our youngest is 2 1/2 when we are dealing with this now-it would be a lot more difficult with a breastfeeding infant.
*I am thankful that Jesus is the healer of all disease and he is with us always in all troubles here on earth.
Ram went for a physical in June and his blood work was abnormal. The doctors kept thinking they finally found what was wrong, but their assumptions were always not quite right. Ram met with two doctors today and they finally found what was wrong. He has a mass growing on his kidney that has a very good chance of being cancer. They will not know for sure if it is cancer until he has the mass removed. Ram will go to Mayo next week to meet with a specialist and there is a very good chance that a few days later he will have this surgery. There will be about 6 weeks recovery time. We don't have a laptop or a smart phone and I don't do Facebook, so I have no idea when I will be able to post, but I will try to keep you updated.
Prayer requests:
*Ram to get healthy
*Doctors to do what is best for Ram
*Ewe to navigate Mayo (we have had a few church members there, but we have never been there)
*Lambs to survive being out of their routine, we don't even know what is happening to prepare them, plus they are Papa's boys
*safe travel
*all four of our parents may be coming to help-safe travel for them and if they do come that the details will work out for them to come
*that this surgery is the end of Ram's medical adventures for now
Thank you, Jesus, for:
*I am thankful they found this before it spread to other parts of Ram's body.
*The first diagnosis Ram was given earlier this summer said that Ram would need to take a pill for the rest of his life that is not usually given to someone as young as him and could cause birth defects. We are hoping that our family size is not done yet, so we prayed that there was a different pill he could take or the doctor would find another answer. We had no idea his diagnosis would take this turn when we prayed.
*I am thankful that we began doctoring about a year ago with a new doctor that was very careful and kept ordering new tests and sending Ram to different specialists until she got to the bottom of this. I'm not sure an average doctor would have even done a blood test on hemoglobin on a 35 year old in the first place. That abnormal number started all this earlier this summer. We have always liked our new doctor, now we love her!
*I am thankful that Ram came back early from our vacation so he had a doctor's appointment while we were still gone where they discovered this answer.
*I am thankful that we live in the same state as Mayo and have been given the gift of a doctor that does this surgery as his specialty. (I won't complain of how far from Mayo we live though!)
*I am thankful that my dad can come help Ram with preaching while Ram recovers.
*I am thankful that we homeschool so we can deal with this without worrying about getting Lamb 1 to school daily.
*I am thankful for church members that have been understanding at this time.
*I am thankful we bought the CD titled Hymns of Comfort and Hope to listen to now.
*I am thankful for health insurance.
*I am thankful that our youngest is 2 1/2 when we are dealing with this now-it would be a lot more difficult with a breastfeeding infant.
*I am thankful that Jesus is the healer of all disease and he is with us always in all troubles here on earth.
Sunday, August 8, 2010
MCCL Booth at the fair
This year was the first time in 6 years that we didn't have a baby in the "Adorable Baby" contest at the county fair. Minnesota Citizens Concerned for Life sponsors this for babies up to age 2. I was asked to sit at the booth at the fair to take people's ballots for the baby contest and hand out pro-life literature. I gladly accepted and sat for 3 hours on Friday.
There wasn't a lot of activity in the afternoon, but a few people stopped by the booth. One was involved with Birthright and was full of information of how important the pro-life work is. I would have loved to have talked to her more.
One had just moved here from Vermont. He was shocked that there was a need for a petition to stop sex-selection abortions in MN. His response, "That happens in China, not in America!"
The most shocking for me was two girls (and I want to stress girls) that stopped by the booth with one boy. The boy asked which model showed a baby at 18 weeks. I showed him and he pointed out to the first girl what her baby looked like. He started bragging about his baby then. Then he teased the girl about having to deliver that baby if it was that big at 18 weeks. I had been quiet until then, but I spoke up and told him that if he was the father, he better be there to help her in the delivery room. Then the second girl spoke up and asked how her 12 week old baby looked. The first girl was obviously pregnant, the second one I wouldn't have known she was pregnant if she hadn't said anything. I am so thankful these girls kept their babies, but I can't imagine what they are going through now. Ram and I were a team when I was pregnant-especially when I was so sick with Lamb 1 and in the delivery room for all 3 Lambs. I can't imagine being pregnant without the support of a husband. These girls are in my prayers.
Several people stopped by the booth to express their support of pro-life even if they didn't vote for a baby or pick up any literature. There was only one that stopped by to make a point to tell me that he didn't agree with pro-life work. I tried to think quickly to have a response for him, but all I could think of was that he should be thankful that his mom didn't abort him. His response- "Maybe the world would be a better place if that would have happened."
This happened at our small county fair in just 3 hours-and it wasn't even busy at the booth. When my shift at the booth was done, I thought, "Lord Have Mercy".
There wasn't a lot of activity in the afternoon, but a few people stopped by the booth. One was involved with Birthright and was full of information of how important the pro-life work is. I would have loved to have talked to her more.
One had just moved here from Vermont. He was shocked that there was a need for a petition to stop sex-selection abortions in MN. His response, "That happens in China, not in America!"
The most shocking for me was two girls (and I want to stress girls) that stopped by the booth with one boy. The boy asked which model showed a baby at 18 weeks. I showed him and he pointed out to the first girl what her baby looked like. He started bragging about his baby then. Then he teased the girl about having to deliver that baby if it was that big at 18 weeks. I had been quiet until then, but I spoke up and told him that if he was the father, he better be there to help her in the delivery room. Then the second girl spoke up and asked how her 12 week old baby looked. The first girl was obviously pregnant, the second one I wouldn't have known she was pregnant if she hadn't said anything. I am so thankful these girls kept their babies, but I can't imagine what they are going through now. Ram and I were a team when I was pregnant-especially when I was so sick with Lamb 1 and in the delivery room for all 3 Lambs. I can't imagine being pregnant without the support of a husband. These girls are in my prayers.
Several people stopped by the booth to express their support of pro-life even if they didn't vote for a baby or pick up any literature. There was only one that stopped by to make a point to tell me that he didn't agree with pro-life work. I tried to think quickly to have a response for him, but all I could think of was that he should be thankful that his mom didn't abort him. His response- "Maybe the world would be a better place if that would have happened."
This happened at our small county fair in just 3 hours-and it wasn't even busy at the booth. When my shift at the booth was done, I thought, "Lord Have Mercy".
Friday, July 30, 2010
Prayers
A Looper dad is going to the Republic of Congo to help them with their new hymnal. You can read about it here. Please keep Cantor Magness in your prayers for a safe and successful trip and keep the people of the churches there in your prayers too. I personally believe the LCMS should be doing more trips and helping more churches around the world this way. This is an example of wisely using the resources we have (he is gifted both in music and speaking French) for missions. You can also financially support the project, especially to purchase hymnals. Please also pray for his family that will not be going with him on this trip.
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Prayers for friends
Heavenly Father, You have adopted us as Your sons and daughters by grace. We give You thanks that Matt and Joelle have been granted the gift of Timothy. Fill this family with wisdom and patience that they may live together in faith and love; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
Dear heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of the Timothy that you have given to Audrey. Keep him safe and help Audrey to love him. Through Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Almighty God, heavenly Father, Your judgements are mysterious and Your ways beyond our understanding. By the grace of Your Holy Spirit, show us Your loving purpose in all things. Have mercy on those who continue to mourn the death of their loved ones. Strengthen their faith and ease their distress that they may abide in Your peace; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
O almighty God, You have delivered Your servant Bekah from the pain and peril of childbirth and granted her a safe delivery. Keep mother and child always in Your tender care; and grant that Ashley may be brought to the waters of Holy Baptism and grow up in the true fear, love, and trust of You; through Jesus Christ, our Lord.
(All prayers from Pastoral Care Companion, CPH 2007)
Dear heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of the Timothy that you have given to Audrey. Keep him safe and help Audrey to love him. Through Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Almighty God, heavenly Father, Your judgements are mysterious and Your ways beyond our understanding. By the grace of Your Holy Spirit, show us Your loving purpose in all things. Have mercy on those who continue to mourn the death of their loved ones. Strengthen their faith and ease their distress that they may abide in Your peace; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
O almighty God, You have delivered Your servant Bekah from the pain and peril of childbirth and granted her a safe delivery. Keep mother and child always in Your tender care; and grant that Ashley may be brought to the waters of Holy Baptism and grow up in the true fear, love, and trust of You; through Jesus Christ, our Lord.
(All prayers from Pastoral Care Companion, CPH 2007)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)