December 23-29

Day 317-323
Christmas is a season of the heart, and ours are a bit battered, but still able to celebrate the joy of living and giving. The kids all came on Christmas morning to open their gifts, although Santa was caught stuffing the stockings! Who thought they would get up before 10?
I'll be a bit sentimental here, in that my perspective for celebrating has undergone radical change this year. I wasn't too concerned about how much or whether we were on time, and the Christmas cards are still sitting in the box. We are together. We love each other and our lives are going forward, even if it isn't what or how we expected them to be. The way was prepared for us, and I see now that that was God's presence in our lives. How amazing to look back over these months and see it.
The New Year is fast approaching , and who knows what it will bring? We hope you all have a good and prosperous year. We will continue to go on the path we are on. Glenn continues to improve, and was busy setting up the new machines we received for Christmas. It is good exercise for him, he says his reading is getting better, although he doesn't think he can read a book yet. I am still amazed at how much stuff he knows about computers. He just types away and pokes the buttons, and lo and behold the thing fires up and away we go.
We are having a break from therapies next week, the therapists are on holiday, and that is OK by me. I seem to be able to sleep in without too much trouble. Colin and I worked on the tractor, and discovered the sediment bowl was 1/2 full of ice. We didn't think that was a good thing, so he took it in the house and cleaned it up. Guess what? The tractor started, and he was able to push the snow around a bit. Hopefully it will be good for the next time.
I got a power shovel from Chris, Aryn, Dale and Desi, so I was out blowing the snow off the decks and ramp. It will be nice to have the snow blown away instead of pushed over the sides. It is a bit like vacuuming (for me anyway), but I got a stiff neck, either from the 'flu or from the shovel. My neck is a bit better today, but crawling around hooking up gadgets yesterday was a painful ordeal, which I let Glenn know. I hope he felt a bit guilty, but I don't think so. His gadgets were hooked up and I survived. I also got a turntable which hooks up to the computer, (OK, it was really my gadget I was hooking up to the computer) which means we can now record my albums and burn them onto CDs. This was Colin's gift, as he was unpacking them at work and thought about us and our power point shows. It was a bit of a trick to get it working, but I think Glenn has it figured out. I bought Glenn an all in one printer-scanner-copier, which he has been playing with for the last couple of days. It's supposed to be wireless, and he was having trouble getting all the machines talking to each other. I think they do now, I haven't been able to get close to the computer! Jackie and Johnny got us a set of cordless phones, so I was busy setting those up too. I still haven't got the one in the basement plugged in, but I will get to it.
Yesterday I was trying to get through to the table again, and burned a couple bags of garbage. Christmas is hard on the environment, the packaging is tremendous. I hope I didn't burn any important instructions. I also tidied in the garage in an effort to catch up to the recycling. I made some progress there.
I'm rambling a bit, so I'll just cut myself off. Life is settling into routine, and I glad to be able to catch up on some of this stuff. I feel like I'm gaining a bit of control again.
Hey, my niece and her hubby are waiting for their baby to arrive, so say a pray for them, they are a few days overdue. Good luck to them and hopefully you'll have the New Years Baby! Wouldn't that be cool?
'Til next time,
Louise

December 16-22

Day 310-316
I take for granted that most people of our acquaintance know about Glenn, but there are a few who haven't heard, so I need to get in touch with them. It's kind of a hard thing to hear about in a Christmas card, but sometimes that is the only contact left. I haven't done them yet, they will be late arriving, but I will hopefully get a few out next week (after Christmas is over!)
Glenn's swallow assessment went well in that they have assigned him thickened liquids. I was hoping for more, but realize that these are still pretty careful steps we need to take. Liquids are hard for him to swallow, so I bought the thickener, and am glad that he has progressed past NPO (nothing by mouth). He continues to get steadier on his feet, although his right leg is still pretty unco-operative. We will have a bit of a break over the holidays, so I'll have to be sure to stand him at home, so he doesn't get too stiffened up. His sense of humour is intact, and he still gives me a hard time when I do things a bit silly, so life is getting easier. I am a little worried about the 'flu, but we'll cope with that if and when we have to.
My furnace fan motor seized up yesterday, so I had to learn a few things about replacing them. I was rescued by a neightbour who just happened to have a spare one on hand, so I was saved a trip into the city. What will be next to go is any one's guess, most of the things in my house are getting to be 30 years old. That's pretty old for appliances and machines, and Glenn's take on it is that his life was fixing one thing after another. I told him I really didn't appreciate that until now. Perhaps this is a sign.
The kids will be home for Christmas eve, and Colin is hoping that everyone can be there Christmas morning for gift opening. I didn't really think that would be possible, but it looks as though it will happen. We'll just graze on leftovers for lunch, then go to my Mom and Dad's for Grab Bag and family celebrations. It will depend on Glenn.
I had a big day on Thursday, got my hair done, and looked at a new residence for Shirley beside the regular therapy sessions. I was looking forward to making cabbage rolls on Friday, and getting a few other dishes started, but I was not in the drivers seat that day. We had a few people stop by for a visit, and it was my turn to clean the church, so Friday wasn't as productive as I had hoped it would be. I do have a warm house though, so you do what you have to do!
I haven't said thanks for your support and prayers in a while. Our Christmas cards bring a renewal of hopes and prayers to us. We are not at our destination yet, and the way is getting long and tiring. Knowing how many people wish us well is really uplifting. We are not alone!
On that note I will close. We wish you a Merry Christmas, enjoy family and friends, and keep us in your thoughts and prayers!
'Til next time,
Louise

December 9-15

Day 303-309
Wow, it's the middle of December already! Only a few days to go to the shortest day too. That always is a good feeling, knowing that the days are getting longer, and we are heading for spring.
We had our usual busy week, and Glenn is now booked in for a swallow assessment. He is eating, and the assessment will allow us to begin with a diet, to see how he manages. I don't know how long it will be before they remove the feeding tube, but we'll know more on Monday. (that is the day of the assessment)
He continues to move more successfully too. His power is returning, it's just hard to get things moving the way he wants. I could go into detail, but it is mostly about going to the bathroom, and I think Glenn would prefer that I not broadcast how that is going! Suffice it to say, we don't use the commode chair anymore, and are making use of a pole in the bathroom to stand and move to take care of business. It is another huge step toward independence, and he is working hard at that, believe me.
We were in for therapy on Thursday, and I forgot to take his feeding bag. What to do? We went to the lab for his blood work, which is located beside a KFC. I thought, and was right, that Glenn could handle the potatoes and gravy in one of their Chicken Bowls. He motored right through it and had a couple of the chicken nuggets too! He couldn't handle the corn, so I scooted it to the side for him. After he was done, he commented on how good that was. I was thrilled he managed it so well. We then went for massage therapy, and they surprised me with a complimentary massage! I guess I looked pretty tense or something. Anyway, I'm still feeling the effects of it, she found a few spots and worked out some major kinks. I think I'll go a bit more often, it should help me too.
Believe it or not, I fixed Glenn a bowl of oatmeal yesterday! (You may or may not know that I really don't like oatmeal... childhood memories!) Anyway, he managed to eat the whole bowl, and I commented that we would have to watch his calories! We are putting his pills into his fruit cups, so are already getting used to eating without the feed tube. I am anxious to have that removed. It is hard to take care of, and you have to watch it like a hawk in case it becomes infected. It always oozes a bit, so we keep it clean as possible. It reminds me a lot of baby belly buttons, and I really hated taking care of them too. All in good time, but I must admit to being impatient more often these days. Time for the holidays I guess.
Speaking of the holidays, I have good intentions of mailing out Christmas cards, so hopefully you'll be receiving one soon. Dale is in the process of moving, and I feel bad that I haven't been of more help to him and Desi, but I only have so much time. I have to find a new place for Glenn's mom too, so that is on my agenda for next week. Whew, how will I ever get done? One bite at a time, I know that, but it becomes quite overwhelming, and I have to remember to prioritize things. Oh well, things work out somehow.
'Til next time,
Louise

December 5-8

Day 299-302
Yeah, it's only been 4 days since my last blog post, but I have a few things to share. the weather is interesting, and so far I haven't had to get out the tractor to move snow around, but the next time it snows, we'll have to clear it. We're doing well with the ramp, it is easy to clean and I bought a snow pushing shovel, so I just scoot it through the railings.
The botox worked really fast this time, and we are going to keep going for massage and cranial sacral therapy. Glenn likes it and it may be helping with his swallowing. I say that because Glenn has been eating pudding, fruit cups, cheezies and the odd Pringle (he missed the junk food!) Last night I had pizza, and Glenn asked if I could put some in the blender. I didn't think that would work, then I remembered my food chopper. I took a small piece out of the center (that's the best!) and chopped it up. Glenn used a fork and managed to eat it all without too much bother. Half way through he stopped, looked at me, picked up his feeding tube and said he thought he would be able to get rid of that. He teared up and cried a bit at the thought. I guess he was sure he would have to be tube fed the rest of his life. Tears of joy are coming a bit more regularly these days as we clear the obstacles in front of us. His right leg is working a bit better, and he is making more effort than ever to become independent. We had a busy week, and yesterday did a few things around the house that needed doing. We had company last night, and Glenn really enjoyed visiting with his friend. He is getting easier to understand, and that helps people when they come. They are understanding more of what he says too, which I hope means they will come to visit more often. Glenn is enjoying some "alone" time this morning, Jackie and Johnny are coming to stay with him. He said he hasn't had any alone time in a long time, and feels easy enough to be alone for a while. I'm getting more confident that he is OK alone too, so we have come a long way in 3 months.
Glenn's other comment that caught my attention was a thought about doing a job. I don't know what he has in mind, but it is another indicator of his need to get on with things. That is so good, and so like Glenn that I almost cried. I don't know if the therapies are doing this, or if it is just time, but he is looking ahead at a productive future, and I think he had sort of written himself off. It is so encouraging to watch him take more interest, and exert even more effort into getting well. He agreed to more massage therapy, which surprised me, so I think he must have felt some benefit from it. At this point I'm happy with anything that helps.
'Til next time,
Louise

November 25- December 4

Day 288-298
Only 21 days to Christmas! How does that always come so fast? You put off a good lot of things, then 'all of a sudden' it's December, and the shopping sprees begin! We've done a good bit of shopping, so I'm not too panicked, although the kids are starting to get a bit anxious. It's nice to let them take on more of the responsibility of the holidays.
Glenn had a big week last week and we are reaping the rewards of the massage and the botox. His right leg is considerably easier to straighten, and he can do it himself when he is standing. That means he will be able to use it more and get some stability in standing. He just starts to laugh. On Sunday evening, he told me to look at his leg. Lo and behold it was straight, and he was putting weight on it. (We were standing at the sink at the time) Awesome! He was thrilled to say the least. I can't say if the massage did a lot of the loosening or if it was the botox, but at this point I don't care. I booked in for another massage this week, so we'll give it more time. It is a bit of a treat, and the therapist is also a farmer, so we were talking away about the state of farming, etc.
We also went to a wheel chair curling information meeting, and may join if time and weather allow. It would be good exercise, and Glenn has always liked to curl. The first day is a Tuesday, but the next week is a Wednesday, so we may go then.
I've been working on my recycling, and am finding my way to the walls in the garage. I take 3 bags at a time, and that seems to be working. I have not been interested in doing much of this kind of thing, so it has really piled up. It is time to get some order back into our lives, and the extra cash at Christmas will come in handy. I don't know what my next project will be, I'm sewing a few baby gifts, and there are a few more expected arrivals, I always manage to be busy. It's getting so I don't know how to sit still and watch TV. I don't know if that is a good thing, but it does make the clutter go away. I think this is a reaction to the whole situation, and I'm going to take it as far as I can. I'm definitely in a throw it away mood. Dale was home on the weekend, and was a bit panicked at what had happened in his room, but I went down with him, and we gathered another bag of garbage to throw out. He was finding things he had forgotten he had stuffed away, so it was OK after all. Jackie and Johnny brought out a couch which is now living in my tidier basement. They couldn't get it to go around a corner, so it will live on the farm until they find a new place for it. Funny how that works. I tidy up and throw stuff out, just to have the reclaimed room filled with more stuff. Oh well, that 's life I guess.
I must admit that the Rav4 is nice to drive on the not so nice roads. People told me it was a good feature, but you don't know until you actually drive them how well they do handle.
Well, I've rambled on a bit, and have probably forgotten some details. They will come to me sometime, and I may even remember to write them down! Middle age is kind of fun in that you always have an excuse!
'Til next time,
Louise

November 18-24

Day 280-287
I have booked Glenn in for massage therapy and the practitioner is also able to do cranial-sacral therapy. I think she said reflexology too, but we'll see what she can do for him. I've been thinking of some alternative methods, and think that the massage will be a good start. A few of his regular therapists have suggested that, so I finally booked an appointment. The kids are still thinking we should check into acupuncture too, so I'll decide or rather Glenn and I will decide about that soon. I'm excited to be doing something more, and have a good feeling about this.
I've also been able to encourage Glenn to think positively about the future. He has days when he comments on how this is how it's going to be, but I really believe he has more in him. Jackie is so pumped, getting him thinking about walking her down the aisle, and Glenn has not responded positively yet, but the coming months will give him more confidence and hopefully he will get on his feet and move around on his own. Jackie is determined. It is a shot in the arm.
She and Johnny are looking after Glenn today, and I left the Rav at home for them to use. They were talking about taking Glenn to the city (it was Glenn's idea actually), so I'm trying not to be too anxious about that. I find myself to be pretty protective of Glenn, but there is no reason why they shouldn't do it. I told them to be sure to take the pee bottle! Johnny thought that was a good idea. Colin stopped in last night and we had a good visit. Johnny asked him to play guitar for him at the wedding, and Colin was very pleased to say yes. Johnny is a musician as well, so they were putting their heads together. It sounds as though it will be another large wedding party, but it is hard to leave any one out. I digress. Colin was listening to the plans for Glenn, and came to the conclusion that Dad is getting bored, so we should start taking him out and about more. It is true, we need to get some more things for Glenn to do than just computer and watch TV. We only vacuum once a week, so I need to get a book holder for him so he can read a book. It is good to be thinking along these lines.
The big football game is tomorrow, and I think we will go in to Chris and Aryn's to watch the game. We'll see what tomorrow brings after Glenn's day today. He may want to stay home! Anyway, I don't think I'll watch, because every time I do the Riders lose, so I don't want to be responsible! Don and Justine are having birthdays today, and Johnny's was on Wednesday, so some plans for a cake were floating around. Mom thought she might make a turkey, but Sandra invited them there because Trev and Julia and the kids are visiting, and Mom and Dad haven't met their new addition yet. Alayna is almost 2 months old, and Mom can never resist new babies! Dad either for that matter. Kent and Natashia's little girl is making progress, and is starting to eat on her own, so they are happy about that. Next is Shelley, who is excitedly waiting for their day. It could be Dec. 11, which is both Gordon and Shelley's birthday, so that would be too awesome! (Did I mention in my last post something about lots of family parties?!)
Life is ticking along, and we are so happy to be getting back into it a bit more. There are still moments when we are bogged down with what is happening to us, but soon someone comes along and picks us back up. The joy of a big family is that it is always changing and growing. We are so fortunate to be on good terms with everyone, it has been more support than I could have ever imagined.
'Til next time,
Louise

November 11- 17

Day 273-279
We had a holiday on Monday, it was nice to be able to stay home that day, but it throws the week out of sync. The terrible wind storm on Tuesday made it hard to stand upright, and some damage was to be found around the country side. Glenn stayed in that day! I've started to clear a path through my basement, and can't believe what a lot of stuff we have piled up and around down there. The kids moving in and out ruffled things up a bit, and I haven't been too interested in cleaning until this week. Yikes, I should have just ignored it some more, but that really doesn't help it at all. I would really like to be able to paint it at some point in the future, so I had to start some where.
Glenn continues to improve, and I'm happy to have him home. We bug each other about stuff, and just are content to be together. It has been fairly peaceful, and I hope it will continue that way. He bought some stuff online the other day, so is helping with Christmas shopping. I'm not that comfortable with that yet, but he is, so who am I to complain?
Family news is that Kent and Natashia had and early arrival, and welcomed their daughter to the world a few weeks early. She is a bit on the small side, but looks beautiful, and we are praying for a release from the NICU soon. (Perhaps that has already happened) We celebrated Ida Mae's 50th last Saturday night. It was very mild evening for November, Rebecca and James deep fried a couple of turkeys outside the shop, and it was quite pleasant to stand out beside the cooker. (It's nice to be able to bring Glenn to these family parties, we have a lot of them)
We are looking forward now to the botox injections, and are going to be having a team meeting with Glenn's therapists on the 26th. We haven't had one since he was released, so it will be interesting to hear what the plan is for the next while. He's been home 2 months already, and it is incredible to see how time flies when circumstances change.
I really don't have anything more to add today, but would like to thank everyone who comes to visit, and prays for us, it all still means a great deal to us. I like comments on the blog, so feel free to put in your 2 cents!
'Til next time,
Louise

October 27 - November 10

Day 257-272
Sorry, I can't believe that it has been 2 weeks since I last posted. The store has been busy on Saturday, and I haven't had time to just put a few thoughts down, so now there is a bit of a lull, and I'll do my best to catch up with the news. Glenn an I have been busy with therapies and regular life around home. I took him to another therapist yesterday for a bit more help with speech, so we'll see how that turns out over the next few weeks. We went and voted on Wednesday, and took a drive around to see the farm after harvest. The Rav hadn't been in a field yet, so we took it for a spin across a couple of quarters. It was a nice day for a ride.
Last weekend we had quite a few visitors on Sunday, and Chris brought his partner and cleaned my carpets. It was a trade off for use of the shop, so I was happy with that. Made a big pot of chili for supper, and it was nice to get the rugs cleaned up before Christmas. During the day, Jackie and Johnny were there, Bill and Ida Mae came, and there were a couple of kids with Chris and Mike. I did go to church too, that was nice.
Thursday I had a command start installed in the Rav,(that is another story) so another day was occupied, and Friday we went back to Regina to see the therapist. I did my shopping then that I had planned to do Thursday (part of the other story!), so we didn't have too much time at home this week. I guess that is how time flies. I'm sorry if you have been trying to phone us, next week looks a bit less full.
Glenn is becoming more anxious to do things for himself. His independent spirit is showing up more all the time. His speech is clearing up gradually, and sometimes the words are clear. He was able to eat some Hallowe'en chocolates (Reece's peanut butter cups are his favourite!) so that was a real treat. He is trying to chew more things, so I'm giving his muffin bits, and he was able to eat a cheesie (the fluffy kind). These things are so important, and yet they are so ordinary. One bite at a time, I guess.
His right arm seems to be getting more mobile, that gives him great hope and he uses his hand more all the time. We can get gloves on his hand, but can't get his fingers in the fingers yet. He is scheduled to have a botox injection in his hamstrings on November 30. We hope that will help relax them enough to enable his stride to work better. He has a long way to go yet, and it is startling sometimes to see how disabled he still is. So many things have to work perfectly to allow us to move. It is a study of life to watch it come back. I have to stop myself from doing too much for him.
That pretty well catches up everything that has happened, although there are side stories and small day to day things that I could bore you with, but really, I don't think so.
'Til next time,Louise

October 23-26

Day 253 - 256
Big news out of our house, which I almost posted on Tuesday, but memories kept me in check. Jackie is engaged! She and Johnny came on Sunday and, good grief, Johnny asked us if it would be OK if he asked Jackie to marry him. What was I supposed to say, for goodness sake, but it was cute to see them blush. Last night Glenn started to laugh and said he wished he would have told Johnny no, just to see what he would have done (does that sound like Glenn or what?) Anyway, they are happy with each other and with the whole idea of being together. Then on Wednesday Jackie phoned again and told me Johnny had gotten a good job with WCB, so they are just about flipping with all the good signs. She plans on finishing school, and finding a job, then start to plan the wedding. I kind of smiled when in the course of our conversation she told me she had already asked someone to be her maid of honour, and I had to say that it sounded like she was planning a wedding after all. She stopped for a minute, then giggled and said that it did sound that way all right. We are very happy to see her so happy. It has been a rough year in more ways than one for her, so I'm also glad to hear them take time and plan a few things.
Glenn continues to improve and it does my heart good. Some times I feel like I'm not going to be able to do everything, but he'll do something or say something and I'm OK again. I do have a lot of phoning to do again right now, but once you get started, it is soon done, and you can get on with other things. I did a lot of canning this week, and it is so nice to have fresh salsa and pizza sauce. That had been worrying me, so now it is done. I have to get a remote starter installed in the Rav, and I'm checking with Glenn's insurance to see if botox treatments are covered. It is never easy to find the right person to talk to. I'll get that finished on Monday.
Today is Chris's 27th birthday, and I was remembering the morning we went in was frosty. Glenn rushed to get the car, and on his way back into the house, he skidded on the frosty steps and crashed his shins! He had nasty bruises for a while. It was a long day, Chris was born at 11:30 at night, so in retrospect we really jumped the gun. It's hard to believe it was so long ago. I guess I'm getting old!
Just thought I'd share a little good news about something else in our family. Life goes on, and we need to find peace with what ever comes your way, otherwise you go nuts.
Happy Hallowe'en everyone
'Til next time,
Louise

October 14-22

Day 244-252
I'm getting a bit behind with my postings, but no news is good news. There is always some news, but the day to day living is more consuming than before, and I don't sit and post as much.
Glenn is so happy to be home, and helps with some chores such as vacuuming and dusting (both of which I hate!) so that is good. We are coping much more easily with transfers, and dressing. Therapy is going well, and we go for another botox review on the 9th of November, and his physio is going to recommend that he have some in his hamstrings. She checked for movement yesterday, and has decided he has a lot of movement, just too much tone for him to be able to overcome. I hope that they do it, because that may help him walk a bit sooner. His speech is clearer all the time, and he can drink chocolate milk through a straw. I think that he will soon be on more liquids, and I will have to start making some soups for him.
We are really enjoying the Rav4 and are amazed at how much easier it is to get in and out of. My back thanks me every time we transfer. In fact, one day, Glenn stood up by himself, and I was happy for him. It isn't much of a boost to get to his feet so that encourages him too. The wheel chair is easier to put in and take out also, so I think we made the right decision.
Chris's birthday is coming up , and I remember the year he was born was similar to this one. We combined the week before he was born, and the morning we went in was frosty, but nice. I think the weather turned shortly after I got home, because Glenn was busy having flax dried and I think it was really cold.
We are getting ready for winter, and have some yard things to do yet. I'll need the boys to help with some of them, and I also have a couple of cars to sell, so we are settling in. What a treat to be going on a bit more of a routine. I didn't think I was very organized, but I was. I cooked a turkey last Friday for the Edenwold fowl supper, so I am starting to give back to the community again. Working at some of these simple jobs is therapeutic for me. I was inspired enough to have a baking day for myself, so I replenished the cookie jar, and made a pot of bean soup. It's nice to have on hand.
I'm pretty well out of news for now, so
'til next time,
Louise
P.S. I've asked Glenn to post, but so far he has declined. I'll keep working on it! LIM

October 6-13

Day 236-243
Today marks 8 months since Glenn's stroke, and wow, what a lot I have to report. You may have noticed a lack of posting, but it has been busy again, and with the holiday, a short week.
I must admit I had no idea where we would be at this point in time last February, but have gained a lot of knowledge about recovery and rehabilitation. I was hoping to be back to normal, or perhaps walking and eating, so I was not very close to the mark. However, now that we have come this far, I know that we had to do a lot of work to get here, and are doing really well. Hind sight is 20-20.
Last weekend we went for dinner at my Mom's and did really well. The kids met us there, and had Glenn in the house before I even had my stuff out of the car. They are so willing to help, I forget sometimes. Anyway, Glenn had a good visit, and everyone noticed that his speech is clearer, so it is not just me. We ate lots, had a good laugh, and generally recharged away from home, so it was good for us. Monday was a holiday, and was really a nice day, so we worked in the yard and got a few things put away for winter. There's more to do, but it was a good start. There was no therapy that day, so I was concerned that Glenn would be a little stiff on Thursday. He wasn't, in fact he did well. His physio was elated, and told me that he had pulled his right leg through when he was walking! That's the first time he's been able to do that, and he did it more than once. She was really encouraged by that and I was a bit astounded. We went to OT next, and lo and behold, his right arm worked better too. She gave him a ring which he passed behind himself, from his left to his right, and then brought his right hand around in front of himself and put the ring back into his left hand. He did that over and over, needing help only to get his right hand behind his back to catch the ring! She too was elated and called me over to watch. (I had been chatting with an older lady who was waiting for her hubby too). I told Glenn that he should have more days off, if that is how he is going to catch up!
I was feeling a bit overwhelmed, and we went to do his blood testing. It was a bit miserable on Thursday, but Glenn suggested that I go by the CAA car lot and see what they had on the lot that day. They had a Caravan, so we decided to try it and so stopped and got Glenn into the wheelchair. The salesman remembered me, and was good enough to get a key. I was surprised and a little dismayed to find that the van didn't work, we couldn't get Glenn into the seat. Another salesman said "Have you tried a Rav4?" and I said no, did they have one? Well, yes they did, so they got the key for that too, and we transferred Glenn into it. It went pretty well, so I started to ask questions and Glenn said we should take it for a drive. I don't know if everyone does this or not, but I get the feeling of right when I get into some vehicles or machines. As soon as I headed down the street, I knew this was the one. We went back to the lot, and I asked the salesman how big the back opening was, and he got a tape measure, measured it for me, and we found it to be 38" which should accommodate the power chair. Oh boy, it met all of our criteria, except it is silver. I bought it. It is a 2007 Rav4 Limited, 4 cylinder (2.4 l) engine, with power locks, windows, tilt, air, cruise, all wheel drive, with 23000 kms. (That's pretty new for us, but it felt right!) We brought it home yesterday, and Glenn was surfing the net all evening to find customer feedback on the performance and mileage people report. It should get between 25 and 30 MPG, so we'll keep and eye on it for a while. Dale was disappointed, but he hasn't seen it yet. Glenn was almost giggling all the way home, and boy are there buttons for him to push! We also got a CAA membership, free oil change, a Mr. Clean car wash system. and one of those handy tools. It doesn't have remote start, but I will get one installed ASAP.
So that is another big decision made, and I hope that this vehicle stands up to its reputation. CAA undercoated it again, so it should be good for a few hundred thousand kilometers. It handles really well, and I couldn't believe the size of the tailgate. We haven't actually tried to load the power chair yet, but I think it will go in. How exciting, and what a day it was! I didn't even want to go shopping, so really it was Glenn's fault!
Mom and Dad went to visit Elaine this weekend, Wendy is in Las Vegas, and Ken, Bill , Fred, Kent and Chris all have birthdays this month. There are a bunch of anniversaries too, so Hallmark will do well by us this month too.
Next post should not be quite so full of news, but who knows? Glenn likes to drink chocolate milk through a straw, and he is doing more mouth exercises than before, so maybe there will be a breakthrough there too. Keep praying, it is absolutely working!
'Til next time,
Louise

October 1-5

Day 231-235
I am glad to report that nothing new has been happening besides our regular routine this week. Glenn is getting more mobile and is more easily understood all the time. (I seem to be having trouble spelling, but I'll keep spell checker working overtime!)
It's kind of good to be able to say that, and I know most people are waiting for the big deal of speech or eating, but I'm afraid we are slugging it out with those two things, and must wait for it to happen. More and more people are comparing this recovery to watching a child learn to eat and speak, and I think that is a good comparison. The nerves are rerouting themselves, and it is taking time, because there is so much repair work to do. He is doing alright as far as his general spirit is concerned, and shows frustration when he can't communicate. That is to be expected. I do get weary, but when I do, I just think how he must be feeling, and I get over it. Power snoozes and just being at home more helps too.
Mom just phoned and is taking a nose count for Thanksgiving dinner tomorrow. Happily my sister and her hubby finished their harvest last night. so they can rest this weekend too. A lot of the kids are going to in-laws, so Mom just needed a closer estimate for the potato pot. It will be 25 or 30 as usual I would guess. I'm looking forward to it, and I think Glenn is too. It will be good to see everyone at a "normal" (if you can call Schoenroth gatherings normal!) family event. It will be interesting getting Glenn in, but I'm sure there will be enough helping hands to get him up a few steps.
Well, I'm not having any inspirational ideas or thoughts to share so I'll sign off and keep you posted.
'Til next time,
Louise

September 25-30

Day 225-230
The end of September is always so sudden, where the heck did the month go? I thought that it would be different without harvest driving us, but I guess we are busy with something else that is all consuming. That means October is going to fly by too. Perhaps its is just age that makes the difference. Not!
Well, we are into a routine, and doing alright so far. I haven't dropped Glenn or anything drastic, and we are keeping him fed and watered. The therapies are good, and our friend who works with Glenn when I am at work is as determined as anyone to get him back on his feet. They seem to enjoy each other any way and that is a big bonus. There is no word on the funding end, but I'm still hopeful. I must admit that it is very time consuming, and I have to find those jobs I had when the kids were home-you know, the kinds you can pick up and put down - because I'm busy with Glenn's needs, and do the other stuff in between. I had a snooze this afternoon to recharge my batteries, and asked Glenn if I had been snoring. He just smirked and said no. Hmm... that usually means yes!
Next weekend is Thanksgiving already, and that means a whole lot of birthdays and Anniversaries to remember. Mom and Dad officially celebrate 60 years on the 10th of October, so I don't know if the family meal out is a go, or if they are just doing Thanksgiving dinner, but whatever else happens, we will be well fed!
I had a busy day at work yesterday as it was month end. It sure made the day go fast. The weather is fantastic, and the boys are working on the third house shingling job this weekend. It is a bit tougher job, as the house is old and has a very steep roof. So far I haven't had to patch anyone up, so that is good. Colin went to a wiener roast on Friday night, so that is always a bonus for the end of September.
I just reread this post, and feel as though it is just a report on everyday life. We have come a long way, and although there is a fair way to go, this is feeling better all the time. The biggest news will be when Glenn starts to eat, but that could be a long time in coming. Or it could be tomorrow. This recovery is not going by the books at all, and Glenn has beaten some fantastic odds already. I'm trying not to be too impatient, but would like to pull that tube out of his stomach already! That would involve cooking a fair bit more than I am right now, but I think I'm up to it!
Happy Thanksgiving everyone!
'Til next time,
Louise

September 22- 24

Day 221 - 224
It has just occurred to me how much different our lives are, and how much we have had to adapt in the last few months. What a blessing to be able to change to meet the challenges presented! Glenn is doing so much better, and has become determined to do as much for himself as possible. It is hard to sit and watch him struggle, but I know it is the best thing, and is far more encouraging than if he were just sitting and expecting to be waited on hand and foot. The urge to do for him is strong, and lots of times I find something else to do while he is doing his job. He dresses more all the time, and takes off his AFO once in a while. He is working more on the computer, and is becoming interested in the quest for a vehicle. He has downloaded information and pictures for me to look at, and has gotten all sorts of specs on mileage and performance ratings. Just like old times.
We went to a wedding and he enjoyed seeing his old friends. He couldn't talk to them very long, but still enjoyed being out. On Sunday we had lots of company, and just got ready for the next week. He does rest better and works harder in PT and OT than before I think. We are lucky enough to have avoided the 'flu and cold bugs going around, so hopefully that will continue. He has to have blood tests every week, so we do that after therapy on Thursday. We have a fairly good routine going right now, and seem to have time to do some cleaning up around home too. That is a relief, I'm afraid I got a bit behind with that. I also made a batch of salsa today, so that is a good feeling too.
It is better to post on the blog a bit more often, I don't have so much to blab about! Thanks for you responses, they are encouraging and we have heard from a lot of old friends. Hopefully we can get together and have a good time sometime in the new year, but I'm not promising anything, I have learned my lesson! Glenn had some alone time on Sunday, as the gift opening was in Edenwold. I went for a while, and left Glenn at home. He was happy to have me go, and I wasn't too edgy, I had the cell phone, and left the home phone with him. We will be able to do more all the time, but just bits at a time for now.
I have said more than I thought I would, so I will sign off.
'Til next time,
Louise

September 12- 21

Day 211-220
Wow, time has begun to fly by now that we are home and organizing ourselves. I can't believe it has been over a week since I last posted, but it has been 10 days. Fall is here, and the weather has reminded us a few times of the cold ahead of us, but the boys have taken advantage of the nice weekends, and have shingled one side of Colin's house, and the entire roof on Chris and Aryn's house. The plan is to do Einar's house this weekend, but the weather sounds a bit unsure for tomorrow.
I'm at the store, and taking advantage of a quiet morning. I think that harvest is pretty well wrapped up around here, with the odd field of flax still waiting to be taken off. The trees are really turning and the country is brilliant with their fall display. It would be nice if the wind would leave them alone for a few days, but that rarely happens, and if you want to see the full display, now would be the time, tomorrow or even this afternoon will be too late!
On the home front, Glenn and I are getting into a rhythm, and have a schedule of appointments we are following. He has new therapists in outpatients at Wascana, but they have worked with Glenn from time to time, and have followed his progress with interest. You will be interested to hear that he made an underwear joke the other day, so I said to the girls that he is really getting to know them well. He was wearing blue jeans and I was putting on his leather jacket, when his former OT walked by and commented on how spiffy he was looking. He told her she should see his underwear! Well , I was not surprised, but the reaction was good, Glenn looked smug and I knew he was feeling better!
He is feeling better. He sleeps better at home, stays up a bit later, and is a bit more relaxed as far as time is concerned. He vacuumed the living room yesterday, and has helped make coffee, and has dusted. I started cleaning too, so we made pretty good progress in the living room and kitchen. Last Sunday, we went outside and started tidying up the shop. I can do some on my own, but he knows where things belong, so he put away some things, and instructed me on where items should be stored. There's lots more to do out there, but it felt good to do something so normal.
Wednesday was a beautiful day. I had a dentist appointment booked, so had asked Colin to stay with Dad while I went. Plans were hashed because the shingling project at Chris's took longer than expected, so they wanted to know if Glenn could come into the city with me and stay at Chris's house while I went to the dentist. I said sure, so we took Glenn to the city, parked him on Chris's front lawn, and he watched the boys and handed out advice for a couple of hours. He really enjoyed that, and the boys were totally happy to have him there "advising" them. I had a cleaning and was surprised to be told that I had no cavities. I asked how soon they could care for Glenn and they said 6 months after a stroke or heart attack, so I could take him, but he says he can't open his mouth enough.
The last thing I want to share this morning (I could go on and on, but I'll keep it down a bit!) happened yesterday. Glenn practices standing at the kitchen sink, and while he was standing there yesterday, he told me that he thinks maybe he will walk again. I was so glad to hear him voice that, as he has been unsure and worried about being disabled. I told him I was sure that he would, and he teared up a bit, so I think that now he has decided it will happen, it will happen. What a lot of worry he is carrying, and when these small comments pop out, I get a bit of an insight. I knew he was strong, but am constantly impressed with how he is coping with all of the obstacles that crop up. He could be the most bitter of men right now, yet he cracks underwear jokes! I can't believe it sometimes.
I have blathered on this morning, but a lot has happened, and we are going to a wedding later today, and are invited to a couple of things tomorrow. Life is picking us up and carrying us along, thank God that we are still together!
'Til next time,
Louise

September 7-11

Day 206-210
Here we are at home, and it is going quite well. Glenn is happier to be able to watch TV and work on the computer. We have all the food and medications for now, and have got a schedule for therapies started. We try to work through the stretches at home, and have improvised some weight bags. I just had some wheat samples hanging around yet, so I taped the bags together, and voila, I had effective weights to hang over his leg to give him a hamstring stretch!
We had lots of company on the weekend, Colin shingled the south side of his house with help from his brothers and a friend, so I had to actually cook for a group of people. It seemed weird to do that after all these months of eating out or just feeding myself. Everyone was full, though, so I guess I haven't completely forgotten how to make potato sauce! Glenn's aunt and uncle from Vancouver came, Grandma Mitchell came, and all the kids were here too. It was a house full, but very good to be home. Friday night, my sister and her hubby from White Fox dropped in on their way to Mom and Dad's. They were going to a wedding in Moose Jaw on Saturday, so since it had rained at their place on Thursday, they decided to take a road trip to see everyone. Glenn and Dale were driving out, and I was following them in the half ton with the wheel chairs when the cell phone rang, and gee it was Elaine wondering where we were. I told her we were close to Balgonie, where was she? She was waiting at the Edenwold corner, so I told her to stop at our house, we would be there shortly. In the meantime, Colin passed them on his way home, so they followed him, and knocked at his door. He was a bit surprised to see them! We had a good visit, and settled in at home.
I went to work yesterday, and another friend who has moved to BC walked in and said hello! She and her husband drive truck, so he dropped her off at her daughters, and she drove out to visit us. We had a good talk, then she came here to see Glenn. She used to manage the Co-op, so was really happy to see Glenn was home, and doing pretty well. I don't know what to expect next.
Tomorrow we are scheduled to start out patient therapy at Wascana, and I have made an appointment for Glenn at the doctor, so we can now try to co-ordinate trips to Regina. I do not miss the daily drive at all. I wouldn't be a very good commuter.
Glenn just started to laugh last night. He was lying on the couch, and I asked him what was funny. He said it just felt good to be home. I guess we are doing the best thing for now, and hopefully the weather won't be too unreasonable tomorrow for our outing, but it has started to rain here now, so I'm going to guess we will get wet tomorrow too. This will put harvest on hold again though, so that is frustrating I know. The Jewish holidays start tomorrow, and the old folks say that you don't do much harvesting through those holidays. It looks as though that may be true this year.
'Til next time,
Louise

August 30 - Sept. 6

Day 198-205
September 1st was the 200th day of this journey of ours, and it was a very nice day except for the wind. We had been invited to a wedding, but only Colin went in the end. He didn't take the wedding package, so someday I'll have to drop it off at the Mom and Dad's ( they are our neighbours) and convey our best wishes that way.
The news of the week is that Glenn has been released, and will come home tomorrow. We have set up his out patient therapy schedule, I'm rounding up his medical supplies, and we have a helper for home care, so all we are waiting for is funding for our helper, and who knows when that will go through. Sometimes you have to get organized, and hope for the best. Everyone who is farming will understand my unwillingness to wait for the beaurocracy to get organized, so I did it, and will have Glenn home now, not in some distant future. I suppose that means that I am picking up a lot of the responsibility, but the bottom line is Glenn and his well being. I will jump through all the hoops I have to to get funding for this arrangement, but feel Glenn needs to be home ASAP. I'm so excited to have him back, and today he looked at me and said "I'm going home!" and teared up. Well, what more can I say? This is the right thing to be doing right now.
The therapists have been writing up regiments of exercise programs for us to work with Glenn on, and he will go twice a week for PT and OT, so really he may have more exercise here than at the hospital, and we won't have that time consuming drive everyday. You will be happy to know that he spends a lot of time catching up on the computer, and although his typing is slow, he can use the mouse very well with his left hand, and could probably buy something on Ebay any old time!
The other exciting event yesterday is that his power chair came! We are figuring out how to bring it home, so that worked out very well. He will be able to tour around the yard on his own now, and may be able to use it in some areas of the house, although it is quite a bit larger than the regular wheel chair. Things are falling into place again, so I am very happy about that. I took some time today, and went to the General hospital because I have to get some of his feeding supplies there. I didn't get too lost, and a very helpful gentleman pointed me in the right direction in the end, so I was successful there. Now I just have to pick up his medicines and cans of food, and we should be pretty well set to go. They have supplied us with the food and meds for this weekend, so I have a bit of time to get the rest of our supplies. It has been pretty busy doing all this, but it felt good to be doing something constructive for a change. I'll send a few emails to some of you to be sure you don't come visiting at the hospital tomorrow. We should be gone around 4:00 , but you never know. They have booked Glenn for another Botox injection tomorrow, much to the surprise of his physio, so that will happen after his other therapies are done. Then we can go and settle in at home. Glenn's Uncle and Auntie from Vancouver are here, and plan to visit us on Sunday, so their timing is excellent too.
I have been so busy telling all the exciting news, that I didn't really cover the 5 day home trial last week end. It went well, although I dumped Glenn on the floor once. I was in too much of a hurry and out he came. As we stood him up he started laughing and said it wasn't too bad, but I was not happy about it and probably was more upset than he was. I hope that doesn't happen again, and will be more careful of how I move him around. Other wise everything went well, and it was sure nice to just be home together. All the rest of this week hinged on our success last weekend, so we should be OK. I know it will be lots of work, but I will be careful to have breaks, and to have the kids stay with him while I do other things. This is doing me a world of good too, and I'm only just realizing how much I miss being at home with him. OK, no blubbering, this is a time of joy and the result of a lot of prayer and hard work. I know that, and we also have a lot of work ahead of us, but at least we will be home!
Speaking of prayers, thank you for yours, I know that lots of you are keeping us in your prayers, and it helps tremendously to know that. I couldn't have borne this without prayer and faith that Glenn would get better. God has purpose for us yet, and time will reveal what that is. Now I'm getting mushy, so I better go!
'Til next time,
Louise

August 25 - 29

Day 193 - 197
I've got the time to post this morning, so I thought I'd get a few ideas on the blog. I've done a pile of laundry, and I'm waiting for it to dry, ( ha, ha, Glenn just loves that excuse for doing nothing!) so I sat down, checked email, and remembered to check the blog too. The kids are busy getting back to school, and I am content to watch the farmers combining, and don't miss the stress of that too much, right now anyway.
We went into the conference on Tuesday, and are now looking at the end of next week for a release date. That is so exciting now, to think that we can be at home, and just run in a couple of times a week for therapy, instead of being apart all the time. At first the terror of having Glenn out, and me taking care of him overwhelmed me, but I have since got a bit of help, or rather a lot of help lined up and a plan B in case of illness or storms or what ever. You should see Glenn, he just about glows when we talk about getting out of the hospital. My helper is a family friend who has helped take care of special needs kids for years, so she came to physio last week, and watched the routine, and is familiar with a lot of the stretches, so she is well able to do work at home with Glenn. There is a program through the health district which will pay her a wage, so we have applied for it, and although the funds are exhausted for the year, the social worker said that we had to apply and see what would happen, perhaps new funds are available. I have also been coached in the stretches, and have a list of them to follow, so we will do our best to keep Glenn from tightening up between sessions. It will be a lot of work, but each week Glenn is stronger and easier to move around, so I expect that he will be on his feet in a couple of months, and so a lot of issues will resolve themselves.
We expressed our concern about swallowing and eating, but the speech path said she would have to be really comfortable with the results of a swallowing assessment before she would start any food by mouth. That means we have to buy the canned supplement for a while, but it works out to be about $6.00 a day, so that isn't very expensive. I'm getting a list of supplies, and where to purchase them from, and the doctor has written prescriptions to help off set costs, so we are getting organized. We are doing a bit of a "dry run" this weekend, in that Glenn will be home for 4 days, one of them a Tuesday, so we are trying to get everything in place to see if it is going to work out, and what problems might come up that we can address before he is actually released. Oh boy, I try not to worry too much, but there are a lot of things to think about here, and I know we'll overlook something. Glenn's safety is the point, so we have to always watch out for that.
Well, that's about it for now. The combines will be rolling this weekend, so take your time and be safe out there. Things can happen so quickly, just be careful.
'Til next time,
Louise

August 17 - 24

Day 185-192
I am a bit startled to see how long it has been since I last posted, but I have been fairly busy, and am making arrangements to cover Glenn's needs when he gets home. I think I have a couple of plans in place, so the panic I was feeling at the beginning of the week has eased off, and I think I'm ready as I can be for the move home. Glenn is so ready to come home, I forgot about that in my own fear of the huge responsibility this is going to be. I just had to think it through, focus on Glenn and realize he needs something to do and to just get out of the hospital atmosphere.
He has shown a fair bit of return in the right side recently. His right arm is becoming more mobile, his stride is almost working, just the swing through is needing help, and there is more finger movement, so everyone is enthused about the fact that there is such return still happening. He only needs two people to help him walk, and the therapist said that all she is doing for him is advancing his right foot as it needs to swing forward. He is fairly steady on his feet, and transfers his weight back and forth, so I think that it is going to be OK. His speech is still slurred, but the way this is going, one day he will show signs of improvement there, it's just right now the return in his right side is taking all the attention.
I had a 'shopping for school' day with Jackie, and got her set for Monday. She needed someone to help her find a few things and places, so now she is really excited. She said to me that she is happy again, and hasn't really felt that way for a while, so that was a good thing to hear. She has a new boy friend who is helping that situation along too! She opened one of her new text books, and was poring over the pictures of mouths, and teeth, and oh my, there were some scary looking examples, but she seemed genuinely interested, so this may be it. We'll see in a couple of months. I'm excited for her and Glenn was happy to look at the gross pictures with her, so I imagine he is excited for her too.
Chris is also signed up and ready to start on Sept. 3. He has 2 semesters left, so it will be good to be finished. To have stopped so close to the end would have been hard to accept, so I'm glad he's persevering. I just have to get Dale going, or someone does, and we should be done with post secondary. That will be a relief too.
Glenn will be released to come home sometime in September. That will come quickly now, but not quickly enough for him I'm sure. He will need someone to stay with him when I am at work for the first while, so that is what we are working at arranging. I have been shown how to do his stretches because outpatient physio will only be twice a week, and we don't want to lose any momentum now. I do have the support of friends in that they will come and help when the time comes to work on stretches as well. Once you set your mind to do it, things fall into place.
I'm getting a bit busy now, so I'll sign off and try to not go so long between postings.
'Til next time,
Louise

August 11,12,13,14,15,&16

Day 179,180,181,182,183,&184
I'm on the verge of a pile of forms again. It has to do with care for Glenn in the transition, the programs we may be able to use require that forms be filled out and submitted. Then we wait to see if we are accepted or not. In the mean time we need to be assured that Glenn is safe where ever he is. It is a form filled world out there! The paperwork is truly staggering, and I have the help of a social worker to pick and choose what to apply for. I will keep you informed as Glenn's release date draws near. In the mean time, he will be home again this weekend, so we will work on a few more home skills and polish up the ones we've already tried. He spoke quite clearly on Monday night, one sentence, which came out clear as a bell. We both stopped and marveled at the ease with which it slipped out, and are encouraged with this sign of progress. Just when you think perhaps we are slowing down a bit, there comes an awesome sign. He is being encouraged to use his right hand more and more all the time, and I see that is taking a fair bit of concentration, but there is improvement.
Thank-you for your input on the SUV vs. mini-van contest. I am researching them both, and of course find good and bad in both, so it will ultimately be what I can find that I like for the right price. They think Glenn may have his power chair next week, which will help in that I will have dimensions to work with. I'm not holding my breath, but it looks pretty promising, as long as there are no tie ups. I'll have to take Glenn along, and see if transferring into one is better than into another, so there are a lot of factors to consider. I hope I can find a red one!
I took a bit of time off this week. Last week was very full, so I decided I needed to get my head back on straight. A bit of housework is good for that, so I cleaned, and worked away at the garbage. I hadn't burned for a while, so after the rain on the weekend, I thought it would be OK to get rid of some. Of course the wind picked up and caused me some concern, but all was well, and I am a bit more sanitary than a few days ago! I hate that job! I did a fair bit of laundry too, so I think I am a bit more in control of the household. That won't last too long, but it did help the head straightening!
Dale bought a Geo, or rather Suzuki Swift, so he has joined the ranks of the Mitchell Geo drivers. He was pleased to inform me that he had only spent $33.00 to fill it and he was hoping to drive to and from work for 2 weeks on that. If he can, he says it will save him $90.00! That will sure pay for the car in a hurry!
Jackie starts school in 11 days, and is getting excited. Her RESP money arrived in time, so she is ready to get school supplies, and get going to class. I hope she likes it.
That's about all the news for now, no birthdays here now for a while, Mom and Dad are home safe and sound, and have a few good stories to tell about the cruise. I'm putting in an extra day tomorrow(Friday) so don't call me, 'cause I'm at work!
'Til next time,
Louise

Aug 3-10

Day 171 - 178
I'm not happy about the blog in that I posted a few days ago, something happened and it was gone. I had started one posting, left it, then came back to it. It does save, but didn't save the second part of the post, so I just deleted the first part and sniffed in disgust! Anyway, that is the reason it has been so long since I last posted, I lost the one in between! Now, I don't remember what I had said in the last post, so I hope I don't forget anything. I show my age once in a while!
Mom and Dad left to take an Alaskan Cruise last weekend, and should be coming home tomorrow or the next day. I don't know how they are doing, although they had talked to Wendy on Thursday night. We'll hear about it when they get home.
Glenn spent the weekend at home last week and is home again today. It sure beats driving to the city, but I have a lot more work to care for him. He rests better though, so I'm thinking that will help with the whole outlook of things. The doctor is talking about discharging him in the next week or so, so needless to say I sort of panicked. I need a fair bit of stuff to be lined up before that can happen, so I had a good talk with the social worker, who got the picture, and commented that the logistics of Glenn at home must be worked out better than what we have right now. She was getting a bit of a run around because we are rural, and don't have easy access to help. More as this develops.
Glenn had a disappointment with his swallow assessment, and has to stay on tube feeding for a while. He couldn't clear a lump of pudding, so they had to suction it out, which wasn't pleasant at all. The therapist says these kind of strokes will show a marked improvement suddenly, as though a switch is thrown, so we will wait and see how that turns out too. His speech is getting clearer all the time, and that works together with swallowing, so hopefully it won't be much longer.
I had to travel to Earl Grey to help move Uncle Bob's stuff out of the house he had been staying in there. She is moving to Regina in August, so I thought I had better help out that way as soon as I could. It spit rain on me going and coming back, and I hadn't taken along a tarp. We wrapped a chest of drawers with an old blanket, so it was OK. Uncle Bob is sliding down hill, so we hope that if he has a bit more company, he will start to participate in some of the activities and regain some interest in life. The last time I visited him he didn't know me. I teased him a bit about needing bigger pants, and told him he should start walking a bit more. Then he started to smile, so perhaps he thought of who I was. He doesn't speak very much, so it's hard to know exactly what he does know.
I also started looking at vehicles, and really liked a red Highlander at Toyota, but the boys are giving me the gears about how useless SUV's are and how much gas they use etc. etc. so I'm feeling a bit let down by the thought of another mini van. I will do a bit more research into the Highlander, and look at some more mini vans, before I make any decisions. I have to do some measuring and other stuff, and we don't have the power chair yet, so there is really no rush, but I don't want to make a bad choice either. What fun!
'Til next time,
Louise

July 30, 31, Aug. 1,& 2

Day 168,169,170 & 171
Happy news in that Glenn comes home again this weekend, and gets a long weekend stay, no therapy on Monday, so he can stay home that day too. The driving is what is getting to me the most right now. It is a long way everyday, and I sometimes wonder if I should be looking for something closer to the city, but I know that we are too uncertain of the future to be doing that yet, so the kms. keep piling on the cars.
Yesterday was Aryn's birthday, and I was a bad mom - in - law and didn't get around to phoning to say 'Happy Day', but it's not always going the way I want it to go. I was musing out loud to Glenn about a personality flaw of mine that is coming through more often these days and he just laughed and said 'surprise , surprise'. You see, I tend to get aggressive behind the wheel of a car, and get really impatient with the driving habits of those around me. Glenn says I drive 'hard', and tend to get pushy when people start cutting me off and generally showing no manners on the road. Of course I just add to the problem, and have to really content myself with colourful language (I don't have anyone in the car with me right now) and I admit , shamefully, that I have flipped the bird at more than a few drivers. After Glenn's comment, I have tried harder to drive 'easy', but some days.....
Anyway, I booked the Camry in to have the exhaust leak repaired, and also got them to install the brake pads I bought. I thought I called one shop, but after I got back from shopping with a friend to pick up the car, I was dismayed to see it in the same spot I had left it that morning. Sure enough, it hadn't been done, and the guys said it was booked in at the other shop. Now, I can't say for sure, because I really don't know, but I think I called and talked to the right guy at this shop. They then quickly put it in and I had to wait 1 1/2 for it, but it does sound nice and the brakes no longer grind as I step on them. So much for Plan A. The phone in the charger hadn't charged over the last 2 days, so I was cell phone less, causing more delays and missed calls. I will explain all this to Aryn, and apologize, and I just didn't do it when I got home, because I was tired and lazy. So much for good intentions.
Dad's birthday is tomorrow, and they leave on their cruise the day after, so I need to see them sometime today, although Plan A doesn't always work out. Happy birthday Dad just in case!
The terrible storms that went through Liberty and Cupar (I'm sure there are other towns affected by this one) were the talk of the hospital as there are people who know people from these towns. One of Glenn's nurses was saying that a cattle barn was torn up and some livestock is missing, so it was a nasty one for sure. Apparently every house in the town of Liberty had broken or cracked windows. I don't know if it was the same storm, but it was the same day, so it was pretty scary out there.
I'm going to buy a bar to install in the bathroom for Glenn to hang onto when he needs to. We are figuring things out as we go here, and his OT is very good about how to make things work. I went in for Glenn's physio session yesterday, and they were showing me how to stretch his leg, and made suggestions where and how it would best be done. They suggested a short stool, perhaps old phone books, so I will be duct taping up my old books to use for Glenn's leg stretches. Who knew? They also took him for a walk, and it was quite a long way down the hall. He can shift his weight back and forth very well, and yesterday was the maiden voyage for his new leg brace. They were monitoring it for pressure spots, so I was also shown how and where there were reddened areas. He may have to gradually get use to it, and his foot is pretty stiff, so that really doesn't help. We should be able to stand him and stretch his leg at home. They suggested the counter in the kitchen, so perhaps I can get him to do some dishes while he's there
(just joking)
I'm out of news for now, and my coffee is gone, so I best get started on the days cleaning.
'Til next time,
Louise

July 26,27,28,&29

Day 164,165,166 & 167
The hot weather is back and is hard on the crops. The peas are turning, and I expect to see combines out this week. I'm sure the yield is going to take a hit, the rain turned off too soon again. That is one thing a person is totally helpless in the face of. Time and effort are not well paid for in a case like this.
It's been busy since I last posted, some family and friends came and helped install the railing on the deck and I hired someone to install the large door into the bathroom. We are more ready for Glenn to come home. Colin turned 25, but we put off having cake until the next week as he was busy getting organized for Farmaggedon. Unfortunately the crowd he was expecting didn't show up, so he lost a bit of money, but they put on a great show. He had 6 bands come and perform, 2 of whom he is presently recording. The evening was perfect, but he was disappointed that more didn't show up. He was ready for a bigger crowd, but too much other stuff was happening, there was a wake board competition and cabaret in the city, and a Rider game, which probably affected the numbers significantly. I asked him if he would hold another, and he said no, but as we talked I suggested that he sell tickets in advance, then he would know better what to expect. He thought about that, so we'll see. He said he actually turned bands away, so that isn't a problem, the commitment of the audience is the problem. Anyway, we'll see what next year brings. He does a good job, but needs to make something for his effort.
The big news is that Glenn came home for the weekend. He slept over on Saturday night, and we did OK. Chris learned how to transfer him and brought him home while I was at work, so the kids stayed with him until I got home. We moved him from couch to chair, and he spent a fair bit of time on the computer (surprise, surprise!) so it was good. It was hard to take him back on Sunday, he didn't really want to go, and I really didn't want to take him, but for now this is what needs to be done. He will have a busy week this week, and we'll see if we can keep him over again next weekend. It will be so good for him to be able to look forward to coming home, and relaxing on the weekends. He said that it just didn't compare to being in the hospital. How could it? He was lying on the couch watching movies, and listening to regular house noises. I could clean up a bit, and actually cooked a couple of meals, just like normal life. It has been a long time since I did that! It was tiring for me, but exhilarating too. We'll see what the week brings to us, and we will get organized for birthdays next weekend, as Aryn's birthday is August 2.
'Til next time,
Louise
P.S. We had coffee in bed on Sunday morning, I gave Glenn a few spoonfuls! It was great! LIM

July 20,21,22,23,24,&25

Day 158,159,160,161,162,&163
It's Thursday again, and another week has gone by. The summer is flying by, as they usually do, and today is actually the 164th day, but since I don't know what will happen, I can't write about it yet. One thing I can say is that it is Colin's 25th birthday today, and I have yet to wish him a good day. He doesn't want a party yet, as he is concentrating on his concert this weekend, so I'm good with cake on the long weekend in August. We can double up with Aryn and Dad. More on that as it develops.
Glenn is anxious to come home this weekend, so I have purchased no maintenance railing, and am in the process of getting people together to install it. I think we'll do it in the evenings, as the heat of the day is too much to endure, and most people are busy doing their regular jobs ( including me), so I'll see how that goes. I have someone hired to come and install the bathroom door also, so I should be up to speed for now. My car is still in need of brake pads, but I bought them and am driving the 1/2 ton until they are installed. I could drive the Swift, but it isn't air conditioned, so I'm being fussy.
The Anniversary weekend was great, lots of people came to see us and wish us well, and Mom and Dad's tea was great. Thanks to my family for organizing this, it went off without too much bother, although I wasn't in on much of the work, so all I saw was good. Glenn was tired and felt a bit as if he'd been on display, but that was fair because he sort of was. He recovered fast, and was OK Monday. I didn't recover quite so fast, but feel mostly like myself again. It takes a lot of courage to face people when you are in a changed state of being. A lot of people say things that are hard to take, although they mean no harm nor have unkind intentions. They don't understand exactly what has happened, and tend to talk over Glenn instead of to him. The kids were amazingly protective, and every time I checked, one or more of them were beside Glenn, fielding questions, or getting Glenn whatever he needed. I am so proud of them, I can't say enough. They played a couple of songs, and I again felt a bit amazed at the talent they have. Chris sang really well, and Dale and Darcy just picked up where they left off a few years ago. They all are impressed with Colin's ability to listen to guitar riffs a few times, then play them on his own guitar. I guess they should be in bands, they really enjoy themselves. My brother Fred was MC for Sundays program, and couldn't resist teasing the boys. Having listened to them Saturday night, he racked his brain to give the band a name. He was totally amused when he told me he had thought of one, and during the program explained that he had had to think hard for a name. The boys know Uncle Fred well and were not sure what to expect. On Saturday I had introduced them, and had pointed out Dale's quantity of hair, and Colin's lack of hair. So, Fred couldn't resist, and named the band "The Hairdresser's Nightmare"! Chris laughed so hard he could hardly start singing. I thought it was perfect, and you should have seen the other boys faces. That's what family is for!
Glenn was back to therapy, and had his right leg cast for a brace. His foot tends to turn out, so this will keep it in line as it begins to bear more weight and he walks. He is swallowing his ice chips without too much trouble, although he does have to concentrate. I'm going to see him a bit earlier today, we have an appointment with the social worker, who wants to talk long range home care, and to check up on my progress with renovations. He will go to the hospital sometime next week to have tests done where they will watch how well his swallow is working. It has something to do with barium and X-rays. This too has a proper name, but it escapes me at this time. My head is full of stuff, and a lot that I hear just falls back out and doesn't stick at all. I think a lot of that has to do with my age! I'm going to blame it on that anyway.
Jackie's car has problems that a few thousand dollars will fix, so she is in a bit of a dilemma. We will have a discussion with Glenn about that, and pick and choose what to fix, and what to limp through. She needs to get through the next year before she can really think about buying another one, so that too has been filling my head with details. Life doesn't slow down too much I can tell you that. You may be able to put some things off for a while, but they wait for you, and sooner or later you have to deal with them. I've got books that need attention again, so I'll put that on my 'to do' list for next week! If you see Colin, wish him a happy birthday! It was hot the year he was born, I remember bringing him home in just a diaper and baby T-shirt! Time flies, so
'Til next time,
Louise

July 17,18,&19

Day 155,156 &157
Had some Louise time today, and got my hair fixed and my feet...hmmm...how do you describe getting your feet scrubbed, rubbed and basically rediscovered? Anyway, had a pedicure and manicure (which I didn't know I was booked for) and generally spiffed up. Now I just have to keep everything looking good for Saturday and Sunday, so I guess that means no doing housework for a couple more days!
I had a frustrating start to the day as the ongoing saga of the reluctant lawnmower kept me amused for over half an hour this morning. I was going to get a bit done before my appointment, but the mower was again not very co-operative about starting for me. We had a bout which I eventually won, but I lost a favourite coffee mug in the fray. I had set it on the mower as I was boosting it, so when the thing finally started, I wasn't quick enough to grab it as it vibrated off the mower. Crash, and there it lay, unfixable, unusable and generally just broken pottery. Oh dear, not what I had planned at all.
My appointment at 11:00 was almost missed as I had to wait for a slow semi, a train and other heavy traffic tie-ups. It's a good thing I left a little early, because I got there right at 11:00. I was not impressed with the way the day had started. I was getting uneasy as to the possible outcome of my hair!
After lunch things went better, my hair looks fine, and my toes and fingers have nice red nails for now. We'll see how long they last! I got to the hospital to find Glenn having a rest. Yesterday was a big day in that he had an extra physio appointment. They were consulting with an bone specialist (sorry, I can't remember the proper title of this person) who checked out his elbow and wrist on his right arm. The tissues around the joints have tightened and need to be manipulated and stretched so that Glenn can keep some range of motion in his forearm. He needs to be able to swivel his hand up and down, and this tightening tissue is preventing that. The botox is showing up in that his joints are easier and less painful to move. We now need to stretch them to keep them flexible. He then agreed to go for a walk, and they let me guide the walker for him. Gosh it was good to see him on his feet, and although he can't swing his right leg, and really has to concentrate on doing what he's doing, I actually stood and looked straight into his eyes. Wow, I've waited for that, and can see now that he will be walking on his own. It will still take a fair bit of time, but what a good feeling!
That was yesterday. He was also supposed to have a swallow assessment done yesterday, but that didn't happen until today. Sit down, he is going to start taking fluids by mouth! Yes, we are on the road to eating! He is allowed ice chips for now, but they have given the go ahead for some liquids. He will still be on tube feeding for a while, but I was thrilled. I don't know if Glenn was as thrilled, he worries about this, as well he should, but he swallowed a bit of my ice tea, and laughed and said he actually swallowed almost half a mouthful. This is another thing he has to learn, and it is amazing to me to be reminded again how far he has come, yet how far he has to go. He is doing things that very few survivors of these strokes do, and I have become very aware that he is a miracle of grace. I thank the Lord everyday for helping him through this and look forward to the day he can come home to stay!
Jackie came for a visit and is getting excited for this weekend of celebration with family and friends. I must admit to feeling a bit guilty for not helping more, but for this time I had to lean on my family to do everything, and guess what, they did just fine without me! Who knew? Apparently my boys sound good, and have practiced a few songs for Sunday. I told Dad to bring along earplugs, so I hope he remembers them. Maybe I should tuck a pair into my purse as a joke!
I have rambled on a bit, but it truly has been a momentous week in many ways. Glenn wants to come home more on weekends of course, so next week the railing has got to be installed. First things first, party for now, work for later.
'Til next time,
Louise

July 12,13,14,15,&16

Day 150,151,152,153,& 154
I've been at the store for a full week of work, and have not done much at home at all. The grass is long, the house is grubby, and I have been eating way too much fast food. I thought that I couldn't have too many burgers, but I have had my fill. I have a few days off now, so I'll do a bit of catching up before the big weekend.
Glenn was indeed home on Sunday. It went very well. The kids helped lift him up onto the back deck, and we were happy to relax at home for a change. I think Glenn thought we would get a bit more alone time, but I'll have to finish the railing before that can happen. We did go out onto the deck from inside the house, and he really likes the composite decking we used. He gave me orders to finish the railing, so I will have to find some helpers to do that soon.
They gave him his botox on Friday, so we are waiting for that to take effect. We are suppose to flex his hand and foot to help loosen up the joints. They gave him another injection in his right arm because he still has pain when his ring finger is straightened. He will loosen up as the week goes on, the botox needs to spread through, and then the muscles start to relax. The joints needs flexing as this happens, so the physiotherapist will be working that hard. I was so glad they settled before a walkout or slow down happened, because that would have totally affected Glenn. He has discontinued some of his meds and seems to be doing well without them. He is starting to read more now, so I'll have to find him some magazines that he likes. He made a suggestion, but I told him I didn't think Penthouse was a good idea in the hospital! Some things just don't change.
I need to get busy now, so 'til next time,
Louise

July 9,10, & 11

Day 147,148, & 149
I have good news. Glenn can start coming out on regular passes! We are going to start this weekend, Sunday to be exact, so if you are a regular Sunday visitor, we will probably be at home! I'm a little startled, but Glenn is pumped, and really, really wants to come out for the day. That's what we'll do. I don't have the railing on the ramp, so I'll have to get the boys to help lift him into the house. I would like to get the railing done, but I'm at the store for the rest of the week and haven't figured out how to do it. Any suggestions?
I did get into the conference on Tuesday afternoon, and the doctor was happy to discontinue some of Glenn's meds. He says that is what he likes doing best, and the fewer meds Glenn can be on, the better. I really like this doctor. He again commented on how much improvement he sees in Glenn between conferences, and Glenn's new OT is anxious to get him more independent. The visit home is part of that, so I have to remember to let Glenn take care of as much personal hygiene as he can, and not baby him along. Now is the time for Tough Love, he can do a lot of it, and works really hard at it. It is hard not to open toothpaste and start the razor, but I'm getting better at it. Glenn compensates, and the OT has worked specifically on these skills to get him to the point of going home. How exciting is that? I'm also a little scared, OK, a lot scared, but we have to start, and if Glenn is willing, then I'm all for it.
We are now going to be looking at overnight passes, not for a few weeks, but the intention is real, and will happen in the near future. They also said that we need to discuss a vehicle, so I guess I'll be shopping for new wheels soon. Glenn and I will have to discuss it a bit more, and I'll get more input from the experts as what our needs actually are or will be. I'm feeling a bit like we are at the end of the tunnel, and daylight is getting stronger!
'Til next time,
Louise

July 5,6,7, & 8

Day 143, 144, 145, & 146
Well the weather has been the "hot" topic for conversation again this weekend, and personally I'm glad it has cooled of a bit. Friday found Ken and me in a grain bin in the morning. I told someone today that when he called to say he was coming I didn't know if I should cry or run away, but I helped out, and thankfully the wind was good enough to blow the dust and keep the air moving around enough to make it bearable. There are two more bin bottoms, but they are hoppered, so it isn't as bad as shoveling a flat bottom. Ken said he had to shut down Friday afternoon because of the extreme temperatures, and I'm glad we got it done in the morning.
We have been lucky enough to be getting a few showers to keep the heat from completely frying the crops. It makes for very muggy conditions, and the coolers at the store were all fogged up on Saturday. I had an interesting day in that the interact machine went down, and I couldn't take payment by card that day. They were having trouble elsewhere, so I wondered if the lightening storm the night before had caused some trouble. They will have to replace the machine for us, so I don't think it was my fault!
Glenn continues to gain daily. He noticeably tries to converse with everyone who comes to visit. It makes some people nervous, but we get out the letter board and help him get his message through one way or the other. He goes out and about more by himself, and they have discontinued more of his medications, the big one being his sleeping pills. He says he is sleeping well, and actually slept in this morning. They had to wake him for breakfast, and then took him for his bath, so he was fresh as a daisy when I saw him today. We had quite a bit of company, so he caught up on the goings on in the family. The psychiatrist came in today and asked if we had any concerns about Glenn's moods and general state of mind, and I told him that he seems to be doing well. I asked about the anti-depressants, and he said to leave the dosage alone for a while yet, and Glenn was OK with that. If it is helping his general well being, I'm OK with it too.
We are unsure what will happen with therapies this week. If they go out on strike, Glenn will definitely be affected, but we hope talks will resolve the issues, and we can continue with his treatments. His days will get long if he doesn't have his routine to follow.
Today was Aryn and Chris's 1st anniversary. It's hard to believe that a year has gone by. What a year it has been. Life deals the good with the bad, and we can only cope as best we can.
Well, the party weekend is fast approaching, and plans are mostly in place. I haven't done as much as I usually do, but everything is well taken care of by the rest of the crew. One thing about a large family, there are many hands to share the load. My deck is awaiting the finishing touches, so I need to look into the purchase of some railing material this week. It looks pretty good on the house, as if it were planned for all along. The lilac that is surrounded by the ramp looks perfectly planned and I will buy a new honeysuckle to replace the one that had to go to make room for the last leg of the ramp. I want to thank the erection crew for a great job in the heat of a July day. I don't know what I would have done if you hadn't answered the call!
Preparations in the house will happen soon so that Glenn can start to come more regularly, with the object of moving home coming in sight. God willing that will not be too much longer.
'Til next time,
Louise

June 29, 30. July 1, 2,3 &4

Day 137,138,139,140,141,&142
Twenty weeks! Almost 5 months! Wow, I don't think I'll do that anymore, it just boggles my mind to think that much time has gone by since Glenn has been away from home.
I've been busy, but had to start doing some things in preparation for Glenn to be able to come home. On the 2nd of July, my family and some neighbours came and constructed the deck and ramp on the front of my house. It will make it possible for Glenn to come into the house in a wheel chair without the strain of being hoisted by whom ever is around. It looks good, and I bought composite decking, which means it will be maintenance free (somewhat anyway) I really didn't think they would get the ramp done too, but many hands, and a lot of experience made it come together very quickly. It needs a few finishing touches, such as a railing, before Glenn can use it, but the big job is done.
I also took Glenn out of the hospital to a wedding in our neighbourhood on the weekend. It was a little nerve racking to transfer him, but with some good instruction from his OT, we were able to do it fairly well. He got a sunburn, so now has a farmer tan just like always. We will hopefully be able to be at the Anniversary celebrations for a while in July. It is encouraging, and makes home seem closer to reality.
I've been to work a few days, and now need to catch up on some farm books. I took my car in for a check-up, and they let me drive a new Corolla around. It was red! I really liked it! I can't buy it, but had fun anyway!
My Dad had growth in his lip removed, and the biopsy said it was cancerous, so he will be watching that for a while. It has healed up very well, although he says they must have taken quite a big chunk out of his lip. They stitched it up, and he won't have much of a scar. He'll look great in the pictures we are planning to take.
I'm fairly tired tonight, so please excuse my rambling and skipping around from subject to subject. I just type whatever is popping into my head, but I think the last bubble just broke, so I'll sign off.
'Til next time,
Louise

June 26,27&28

Day 134,135 & 136
The days go by and June is almost over already. Glenn surprised me by standing up with only a bit of a pull from the nurse. He also stood at the bathroom bar by himself for a good while the other day. Just when I said nothing startling had happened, I'm startled. He has gotten strength back in his left leg, but says that his right leg is quite a way behind. That may be, but I was so surprised at how he lifted himself out of that chair! We are trying to transfer him into the car, I didn't actually do it on Wednesday, but the OT seems to think that it is not impossible, so we are going to practice again tomorrow. The therapist sat Glenn in the car, then asked if we wanted to go for a drive! Glenn said yes, so we headed for the country. We went as far as White City, Glenn wanted to drive through the Markusson lot, so we looked at the combines, sprayers, haybines, and other stuff sitting out and about. He checked out the crops along the way, commented on the constructions going on, and generally caught up with what is going on outside his room. It was a nice break, and yes, he was telling me where to go, but I didn't listen all the time!
Bill and Ida Mae came up to the room yesterday (the 27th) and we discussed our plans for our anniversaries. Glenn had some input, so I think we got most of it sorted out. Now the kids need to take over a bit, and we'll have a celebration. Thirty years ago, and really that is hard to believe. People who are married that long are old, and really that can't be us!
It's been a busy week, graduations and pre-wedding plans have involved us to a certain extent. We have had extra company as a result, and it is nice to welcome people who have been following our progress from far away. The internet is a wonderful and somewhat scary thing in our lives, and I never dreamed that so many people would be following what we are doing, but it is a real time saver, and a good way to keep people updated on Glenn and me. I still talk a lot about Glenn's progress, but it would be far more consuming if I didn't post occasionally for interested friends and family to read. Thanks again for all your prayers and best wishes, it makes this so much easier to face.
'Til next time,
Louise

June 20,21,22,23,24, & 25

Day 128,129,130,131,132,&133
I'm actually not sure how many weeks we're at, so I don't know if that is a good thing or not. I'm busy and trying to keep a lid on things around home and seem to spend a lot of time on the road. So be it. Right now that is what I have to do, and I'm not really complaining, but I do think it would be good to spend a normal day at home soon.
The work at the store keeps my brain sort of in shape, and I like what I'm doing. Glenn misses the company, and last night he was really sad. I asked him if I could help and he said no, but it is hard to leave when he is despairing. I'm lucky that he doesn't do it often ( Lord knows he could), but it is really heart wrenching when he does. The helplessness comes back full force, and I must support and be there as best I can. He's doing so well, but still has deep fear of where this will all end up. He was tired, he is standing more, and getting heavier workouts, so I image that was part of it. I'm going to start helping with his transfers, so that means we'll get passes to come home, and the sooner the better. He must be safe though, so that is our priority.
Sunday seems to be our day for lots of company. Our nurse on Sunday was really entertaining us, and was happy to visit with our company. The staff is very good to Glenn, and I have no complaints about any of his care givers. Jackie's favourite spot is in the bed, whether Glenn is in it or not, so we had a picture taken of the three of us. Glenn and Jackie were in the bed and I was sitting beside them, so I imagine we look pleased. Saturday Glenn didn't have any company until Colin and I got there after 6:00 P.M. so he said it was a long day. I told him he was going to have to start going around the floor to the sun room to break up the day, and the next day that's where I found him. He can't leave the floor himself yet, but I think he will be able to go soon.
On Monday I went in to have an orientation with the accessible van that is available through volunteer services at the hospital. It is fairly straight forward, but they need to put people through a few paces before they let you go out with it. Again, safety is the issue, so we learned how to strap down the chair inside the van. I don't know if I'll use it, it will depend on how the transfer practice goes this week. That is, I'm going to train with the therapists to move Glenn into and out of my car. If that goes well, we will then be able to get passes more easily, and not have to book the van.
There's not much more progress to report, he is steadily getting stronger, and the speech is getting better too. Nothing startling has happened recently, so it is slow and steady right now. We have applied for a pass for the week end, so I'll probably find out today if we can have it. I'm still filling out forms and waiting for doctors reports, but I'm getting through it.
'Til next time,
Louise

June 17,18 &19, 2007

Day 125,126 & 127
Glenn had a room full of company when I got there on Sunday. The kids showed up in force, along with a little pet dog, and everyone was relaxed and enjoying being together with Dad. Jackie usually climbs on the bed with Glenn, and they are both content to be close. Jackie was a little tired and a lot hungry, so we went down to the cafeteria for some munchies. My Mom and Dad and Wendy found us there, so we visited some more. All in all it was a good day.
Monday it rained, so I went in early to watch Glenn in therapy. We actually talked more, because the OT needed to fill out the requisition for the power chair they want Glenn to have. She cautioned us again that it could take quite a while for it to come through, but we seem to have that time right now.
I worked a the Avonhurst Co-op Tuesday morning (I'm learning the new POS system and how to post transactions to it to help with the book keeping), but was able to go to the conference with Glenn in the afternoon. The doctor said he was very impressed with Glenn's progress, and told both Glenn and me that we are doing a good job. That was very encouraging to hear. Glenn is now scheduled to have botox injected into his right ankle to loosen up the joint, as he has trouble getting his leg to swing through. It doesn't bend enough at this point, so his physio thought that since it was so effective in his arm that it would help his leg. The doctor agreed, and he is on the list for the July clinic. Glenn talked for himself through most of the clinic, and was for the most part very clear and understandable. He is making great effort now to have his voice and opinions heard, and I say Hallelujah. He is still not going to start eating for a bit, but it will be soon.
I'm purchasing the deck material this week (I hope) so that should make for a building weekend soon. I'll keep you posted.
'Til next time,
Louise

June 13,14,15 &16

Day 121,122,123 & 124
I've been working at the store a few full days, and was unable to see Glenn as much, which is good and bad. He misses the company, and I miss being there, but I have something else to occupy myself with, which should help my general state of mind. I don't know, I was OK, but this really can't hurt, we didn't spend all of our time together before so this is getting back to normal. I still have a guilt feeling, or perhaps anxiety is better, but that may be normal for the next year or so anyway.
Glenn does continue to gain control of himself. In OT on Thursday, I saw him standing for the first time in a long while,. They were holding him, and he had his hands on the table in front of him, but the therapist could look up at him and commented that he was taller and her, so that was a bit emotional for me. His right leg is weak, and they needed to brace his knee to keep it from buckling, but he stood there a couple of minutes, and really didn't seem to have any balancing issues. His right had moves more all the time, and he can noticeably shrug his right shoulder now, so the lines have been established, they just need to be reinforced.
I went to see him after work on Friday, and I was starving, so we went to the cafeteria. I forgot to take his letter board, so he had to talk to get me to understand him. We did better than usual, but were stuck on a few things. It now occurs to me that we should do that more often, because he needs the practice. Colin found us on the terrace outside the cafeteria, and we were talking about music. Glenn thought the boys should do a ballad for Grandma and Grandpa, but we understood MELON not ballad. We played 20 questions, but I had to get the letter board, I couldn't get melon out of my head. Colin leaves today for Boissevain, Montana on a company road trip to the Gibson guitar factory there. His comment was that he hoped they would give him a guitar, but I told him not to pin any hopes on that. He flies from Regina to Calgary, Calgary to Denver, and then Denver to Boissevain, so he will take most of the day getting there. He had offered to drive, but he asked the wrong person, so he had to use the tickets they got for him. He is going with someone he knows, so at least he'll have company.
I told Glenn that I wouldn't be in on Saturday, so he was a bit sad on Saturday. Jackie went to see him and helped him shave and brush his teeth. I didn't talk to the other kids, except Dale and Desi, so I don't know if he had more company or not. One of his nurses was entertaining him though, so I'll have to find out what happened from him today. There was the annual Avonhurst Father's Day supper last night, so I didn't have time to go into the city. We had a nice time. Jackie, Dale and Desi came too, and Colin decided to stay home and get ready for his trip today. The community is very friendly and supportive, and it was good to see everyone. No one made the macaroni salad, so I haven't been let off the hook yet!
That's about all for now, I wish a Happy Father's Day to all the Dad's out there, please say a prayer of thanks that Glenn can still enjoy these days too!
'Til next time,
Louise