The appointment was scheduled for 11:00 on Tuesday, September 10. The biopsy on the lymph node and another CAT scan had been completed on Thursday, September 5. The care worker drove them to the appointment since Dick was too weak to drive. Janet sat there in the car, tense, stomach tight. She struggled to act composed. She had prayed off and on during the night. Oh Dick, she thought, I want to be strong for you, whatever the outcome, whatever the news. Oh God, she prayed, give me strength...I am so weak.
They waited for the oncologist. And then he entered the room.
"There is no cancer in the lymph node," he stated.
Janet and Dick sat there speechless! No cancer? Janet couldn't believe what she was hearing.
The doctor continued. "An enlarged lymph node can show lots of things going on in your body like a minor infection, so this is nothing to worry about. The CAT scan at Holland Hospital showed no cancer anyplace in your body. The testosterone level taken in Syracuse showed 500 but it now measures 10, which is fine. The PSA is now 3.8, up from 3.7, which is nothing critical. The exhaustion probably was caused by the medication, Nizarole, which you were taking to control the PSA levels. One side effect can be a decrease in energy. So, I am prescribing prednisone for you which should increase your energy level. I'll see you in 3 weeks and I'm sure you'll feel better by then."
What? NO CANCER anyplace in the body? But the news the middle of August had been so bad, so hopeless. They had heard the words 'advanced prostate cancer', 'cancer in the enlarged lymph node', 'you probably have one year to eighteen months to live'. What happened? What changed things so drastically? And remember...all those delays...couldn't understand why.
Was it possible God had indeed given them another MIRACLE? Did He in all His wisdom and ultimate planning put in place a medical miracle that defied scientific reasoning to show His glory? Were those delays in scheduling and miscommunication between doctors and hospitals allowed in order to prove to family and friends His ultimate authority?
God had already blessed them with a miracle of Janet's survival from lymphoma cancer in the left thalamus which only had a 15% survival rate. Did God choose them to be blessed with another medical miracle?
Janet thought back on the birth of Glenn, 51 years ago. After a miscarriage and a full-term stillborn, for which no doctor could give any reason or cause, and wondering and worrying if they would ever have a baby, Glenn their 'miracle baby' was born. And then they were further blessed with the birth of Beth, Carin and Diana, three healthy beautiful daughters.
Miracles had happened in their lives. They were blessed. They knew that God gives miracles to communicate to people His unwavering love and compassion. They now knew again the euphoria of a MIRACLE! They were laughing and crying with joy all the way home! NO CANCER! They kept repeating the precious, astonishing, incredible words.
At home, it was now lunchtime, Dick said, with enthusiasm, "I'm going to have bacon and eggs! And I'm fixing it myself!" Proof that his depression had lifted with the unbelievable, ecstatic news!
What a glorious God, Savior and Spirit, who knows all, plans all, and loves all! Blessed are those who believe in Him!
John 4: 43- 54 is a wonderful testimony of Jesus' healing ministry. Verse 53 states, "Then the father realized that this was the exact time at which Jesus had said to him, 'Your son will live.' So he and all his household believed."
Tuesday, September 10, 2013
Saturday, August 31, 2013
Tough trials
It was the beginning of August and Dick had become more tired, more exhausted and weak. Janet was scared and Glenn decided something had to be done. In Manlius, NY (suburb of Syracuse) Glenn (our son) talked to his friend and neighbor, Dr. A., urologist, and appointments were made for urology, PSA, and with Dr. P., oncologist, in a matter of days.
On Tuesday, August 6, they sat in the private office of the oncologist in Syracuse, NY....the three of them... Dick, Janet and Glenn. The oncologist studied the computer screen in front of him and spoke very bluntly.
"You have 'advanced prostate cancer'. Without any treatment you have only a year or 18 months to live. With treatment, and there are new developments coming out every week in prostate cancer treatments, you have at least four more years."
The words hung in the air. Janet studied the doctor's face. Little emotion showed. He was used to telling patients the truth, no matter what. But his voice communicated enthusiasm for the incredible results in cancer research.
She sat there stunned, listening to the statements and thinking. Dick is 83...turns 84 in December....four more years brings him to 87 - 88. He's had a wonderful life. And it's only been this past month that there has been a noticeable decline. He actively played hockey until he turned 80. He was still doing 25 push-ups a day just 2 months ago.
The oncologist interrupted her thoughts. "The bone scan showed no cancer in the bone. However, it does show an enlarged lymph node in his upper left chest... looks suspicious. I recommend an immediate biopsy of that lymph node. Either that will show prostate cancer has spread or it's a different type of cancer. We can't begin treatment until we know what we're dealing with."
A biopsy of the lymph node was scheduled for the following week back in Syracuse.
As soon as she sat in the car, the tears flowed. How bizarre, she thought. First my own cancer, lymphatic cancer in the left thalamus of the brain, leaving her with fragile emotions and right-sided weakness in her arm and leg, so that she could not live alone. And now the news that Dick's prostate cancer, diagnosed 22 years ago, with successful surgery, cancer free active life for 22 years had returned and spread! How could she cope???
Plans were made. Beth volunteered to come to Canada, help them pack, then drive them to Syracuse for the lymph node biopsy. Dick was now too weak to drive. So Beth offered to drive them to Michigan on Saturday, August 17, following Friday's biopsy. The family strongly felt a return to the condo in Holland would be best as they could get lots of help in Holland.
The biopsy gave no complications. However, when Dr. P. reviewed the results of the biopsy he was stunned to discover the radiologist had biopsied Dick's rib bone instead of the lymph node! The biopsy did not show any cancer in the bone, but the fact remained. The suspicious lymph node had to have a biopsy.
The 9 1/2 hour drive to MI proved exhausting but Diana and Carin and their families welcomed them. Numerous phone calls made appointments with Dr. G., Dick's oncologist in Holland, MaryFreeBed for Janet's PT follow-up and Botox injections, as well as arranging daily help from Lakeshore Senior Care.
Dick was too weak and tired to assist with Janet's exercises, or to help with household chores and meal preparation or to drive to appointments. All this took an emotional toll and Janet found herself crying daily. Too much, too sudden! Her care-giver had become the one needing care.
They saw Dr. G., the oncologist, on August 27 who reviewed Dick's story and ordered the lymph node biopsy to be done at Holland Hospital. On Thursday, Janet phoned 'scheduling' at Holland Hospital to find out when biopsy was scheduled.
"We're waiting for the scan to arrive from Riverview Hospital in Alexandria Bay, NY, so the radiologist knows location of lymph node and how to proceed," reported the secretary at Holland Hospital.
"Riverview!" Janet exclaimed. "That's the wrong hospital. The bone scan was done at Crouse Hospital in Syracuse!"
More phone calls to Glenn, Dr P., Dr. G. and then...wait, wait, wait. Labor Day weekend and everyone takes off for the last sweet taste of summer.
Remember Janet, who is in control. Yes, God has a plan and remember to trust Him! He has provided, wonderful, caring Christian senior care workers who come to the condo 6 mornings a week and help with transportation to appointments, housekeeping, meal preparation, shopping, exercises and positive encouragement. And a loving family. God is present and love is strong. Rest in that knowledge.
Tuesday, July 30, 2013
The Lord is present!
She sat at the Bible study circle in a comfortable chair and listened. Usually an active participant, she chose not to speak. The topic was I Thessalonians 3 and the dialogue around the room was active and informative. But she remained silent. She felt worn and tired. She felt alone and fearful. She hid her emotions behind closed lips and weary eyes. She had wept a lot in the last hour and she did not want to cry now. So she sat quietly listening with dull attention. She was grateful no one noticed her somber attitude.
The Bible study ended and the leader asked for prayer concerns to be included in the closing prayer. "How's Dick?" The question was directed her way and the circle of friends all turned to look at her. It was at that moment she lost it. "I'm worried,"she blurted. Then she dissolved in tears. Between convulsive sobs she stammered. "His abdomen aches. He sometimes feels queasy. He wants to nap all the time. What am I going to do? I depend on him. He's my care-giver. I'm facing some hard decisions."
Immediately, several members of the group gathered around her, laid their hands on her shoulders, her head, her arms and they prayed. Concerned, loving, supportive, heart-filled prayers fell on her ears. She found herself shaking as if she was fighting an oppressive enemy, her arms and hands quivering as she welcomed the loving support of precious, faithful believers. The prayers called on the name of Jesus to support and heal Dick, to give her strength to face any challenges and to trust in God.
The prayers settled her and she stopped shaking. The Lord ministered to her and peace enveloped her. Her face wet with tears, she softly repeated, "Thank you", again and again. The group went back to their seats and then an unexplainable silence filled the room. A hushed quiet came over everyone. There was an awe, an unspeakable presence in that room....a Holy moment.
"The Lord is present," one voice in the group spoke quietly but clearly. No one responded. Everyone remained silent, relishing in the awareness that the Lord had indeed blessed their gathering. No thunderclaps, no drum rolls, no trumpets blasting. Instead the peace that only God can convey in the midst of need, worry and confusion. The pastor, in due time, brought the meeting to a close but all present knew this had been a precious moment.
She left the church with a friend who had driven her. She gazed at the wondrous colorful sunset as they drove to her house and she thanked the Lord for His amazing works.
The health concerns of Dick slowly improved. Initially complaining of abdominal aches, queasy stomach and severe fatigue, they went to Alex Bay River Hospital ER in the US, about 40 minutes away, for answers. The doctors were mystified as to what the problem was when the blood tests came back normal and even the abdominal CAT scan was clear. After a few days a probable cause was apparent.
The fishing boat had taken in a lot of water from heavy rains. Dick had tried to lift and move the boat onto the beach and in doing so felt a deep 'hurt' to his abdomen. Ah! Probably pulled a muscle or possibly even tore the abdominal muscle in that attempt. Remedy? Lots of rest and healing time!
For the next weeks she would make certain he had rest. She knew rest is necessary for healing. Meanwhile, she continued to experience healing improvements in her own energy level, ability in walking and arm skills. She continued to marvel at how the Lord blessed her.
She thought frequently of that Bible study evening. The Lord's presence, so gentle yet so powerful. In the midst of her uncertainty, worry and anxiety, God had reminded her once again that she should trust Him. She realized how weak and human she was, but God was, is and always will be in control of her life. Trust Him always! That was His message for her and she relaxed in His comfort and truth.
The Bible study ended and the leader asked for prayer concerns to be included in the closing prayer. "How's Dick?" The question was directed her way and the circle of friends all turned to look at her. It was at that moment she lost it. "I'm worried,"she blurted. Then she dissolved in tears. Between convulsive sobs she stammered. "His abdomen aches. He sometimes feels queasy. He wants to nap all the time. What am I going to do? I depend on him. He's my care-giver. I'm facing some hard decisions."
Immediately, several members of the group gathered around her, laid their hands on her shoulders, her head, her arms and they prayed. Concerned, loving, supportive, heart-filled prayers fell on her ears. She found herself shaking as if she was fighting an oppressive enemy, her arms and hands quivering as she welcomed the loving support of precious, faithful believers. The prayers called on the name of Jesus to support and heal Dick, to give her strength to face any challenges and to trust in God.
The prayers settled her and she stopped shaking. The Lord ministered to her and peace enveloped her. Her face wet with tears, she softly repeated, "Thank you", again and again. The group went back to their seats and then an unexplainable silence filled the room. A hushed quiet came over everyone. There was an awe, an unspeakable presence in that room....a Holy moment.
"The Lord is present," one voice in the group spoke quietly but clearly. No one responded. Everyone remained silent, relishing in the awareness that the Lord had indeed blessed their gathering. No thunderclaps, no drum rolls, no trumpets blasting. Instead the peace that only God can convey in the midst of need, worry and confusion. The pastor, in due time, brought the meeting to a close but all present knew this had been a precious moment.
She left the church with a friend who had driven her. She gazed at the wondrous colorful sunset as they drove to her house and she thanked the Lord for His amazing works.
The health concerns of Dick slowly improved. Initially complaining of abdominal aches, queasy stomach and severe fatigue, they went to Alex Bay River Hospital ER in the US, about 40 minutes away, for answers. The doctors were mystified as to what the problem was when the blood tests came back normal and even the abdominal CAT scan was clear. After a few days a probable cause was apparent.
The fishing boat had taken in a lot of water from heavy rains. Dick had tried to lift and move the boat onto the beach and in doing so felt a deep 'hurt' to his abdomen. Ah! Probably pulled a muscle or possibly even tore the abdominal muscle in that attempt. Remedy? Lots of rest and healing time!
For the next weeks she would make certain he had rest. She knew rest is necessary for healing. Meanwhile, she continued to experience healing improvements in her own energy level, ability in walking and arm skills. She continued to marvel at how the Lord blessed her.
She thought frequently of that Bible study evening. The Lord's presence, so gentle yet so powerful. In the midst of her uncertainty, worry and anxiety, God had reminded her once again that she should trust Him. She realized how weak and human she was, but God was, is and always will be in control of her life. Trust Him always! That was His message for her and she relaxed in His comfort and truth.
Tuesday, July 16, 2013
Safe Harbor
On the 18th of June, 2 loon chicks hatched in the back bay! On Wednesday, June 19, Janet and Dick took a quick ride in the pontoon boat and discovered the loon family of four at the deep end of Elliott Bay. The chicks, sitting on mommy's back were little balls of fluff! But they were safe and far from wandering fishing boats and kayaks. Janet was ecstatic! How wonderful to watch a new family as they grew and enjoyed the summer sun and warm water. Diana and Carin and their families were due to arrive next week so it would be fun for them to watch the loons.
Sunday, June 23 brought an amazing service at church! A guest speaker from New York came to speak and after an amazing talk and invitation, a number of people went forward to lay their concerns at the feet of Jesus and to reaffirm their commitment to the Lord of all!
On Tuesday Judy, a friend at church, told her she had goosebumps about a verse. "Janet, the Lord gave me this verse for you. 'But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength' Isaiah 41:31."
Then that following Wednesday evening there was another outpouring of the Spirit which moved deeply within Janet's heart.
As her healing has continued it has been filled with struggles and emotional highs and lows. She realized she had always been an emotional person and 3 years of dealing with brain cancer proved to her how rocky and unstable the brain can react. She praised God that she could think rationally, could balance the checkbook, could remember past events with utmost clarity but she could also dissolve into tears at the slightest provocation. Hunger, fatigue, slight misunderstandings triggered the sobs. She was thankful these episodes happened when she was in the house alone or with Dick but the outbursts disturbed her.
She was also thankful for the continual slow progress she was making. She definitely had more energy and she continued to push herself and try new physical pursuits. For example, she could now fold sheets! That sounds like a simple chore but by carrying the bunched up sheets to the spare bedroom she could stretch and lay them out on the bed and then by using mostly her left arm and hand, but with slight help with the right hand and fingers, she folded the sheets! What a HUGE accomplishment and she gave God glory!
However, she continued to struggle with the lack of physical dexterity in walking and use of her right arm and hand. Emotionally, she still had difficulty accepting her reduced mode of living. Having recently read a book by Joni Eareckson Tada, the quadriplegic (over 40 years) dynamic Christian, she realized what blessings she did have. She could walk and partially use her arm! So, as she sat through that Wednesday Bible study, she wondered if 'pride' was again her enemy.
At prayer time after the study she confessed her 'pride' and spoke about her emotional struggles. Then Dave, the guest speaker from NY, spoke to her. "You are like a ship that has gone through a violent storm with waves pounding, winds blowing...your ship almost was destroyed by the fierce storm. But you survived the storm and now you are in a safe harbor and that's where Jesus is. He is your 'safe harbor'. And what does a ship do when it's in harbor? The ship rests. It is refurbished, re-fueled, repaired, cleaned, inspected. All to get ready for the next voyage. Jesus has given you this time, this safe harbor, for a reason, Janet. Rest in it and listen to Him."
She thought so much on those words of counsel. Yes, just rest. Regain strength, let the body and brain heal. "Wait on the Lord and renew strength." There is more work to do. The voyage is not over.
The loon family continues to grow and flourish. Because of erratic summer weather...cold, rainy, high winds then hot and humid, the loons have been hanging out in York Bay, just beyond our 'back bay'. Seventeen of the Weisiger family, including Beth, also Glenn and Stephanie's family were here at the lake for about a week enjoying fishing, swimming, jumping off the raft with the 4 lab dogs, water skiing, boating, eating ice cream, playing 'kick the can', walking the lane, looking for bears, fishers (dangerous animal, like a weasel, will feed on porcupine), so of course looking for porcupine, deer and looking for loons on the lake. Lots of laughs, noise, dirty wet towels and LOVE!
And in the midst of all the interaction and confusion, she kept her focus on her care giver, the Lord, Jesus Christ. Just as God provides the family of loons with their safe harbor in York Bay, just remember, Janet, that He has provided you with safe harbor in Jesus to recuperate. REST!
Sunday, June 23 brought an amazing service at church! A guest speaker from New York came to speak and after an amazing talk and invitation, a number of people went forward to lay their concerns at the feet of Jesus and to reaffirm their commitment to the Lord of all!
On Tuesday Judy, a friend at church, told her she had goosebumps about a verse. "Janet, the Lord gave me this verse for you. 'But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength' Isaiah 41:31."
Then that following Wednesday evening there was another outpouring of the Spirit which moved deeply within Janet's heart.
As her healing has continued it has been filled with struggles and emotional highs and lows. She realized she had always been an emotional person and 3 years of dealing with brain cancer proved to her how rocky and unstable the brain can react. She praised God that she could think rationally, could balance the checkbook, could remember past events with utmost clarity but she could also dissolve into tears at the slightest provocation. Hunger, fatigue, slight misunderstandings triggered the sobs. She was thankful these episodes happened when she was in the house alone or with Dick but the outbursts disturbed her.
She was also thankful for the continual slow progress she was making. She definitely had more energy and she continued to push herself and try new physical pursuits. For example, she could now fold sheets! That sounds like a simple chore but by carrying the bunched up sheets to the spare bedroom she could stretch and lay them out on the bed and then by using mostly her left arm and hand, but with slight help with the right hand and fingers, she folded the sheets! What a HUGE accomplishment and she gave God glory!
However, she continued to struggle with the lack of physical dexterity in walking and use of her right arm and hand. Emotionally, she still had difficulty accepting her reduced mode of living. Having recently read a book by Joni Eareckson Tada, the quadriplegic (over 40 years) dynamic Christian, she realized what blessings she did have. She could walk and partially use her arm! So, as she sat through that Wednesday Bible study, she wondered if 'pride' was again her enemy.
At prayer time after the study she confessed her 'pride' and spoke about her emotional struggles. Then Dave, the guest speaker from NY, spoke to her. "You are like a ship that has gone through a violent storm with waves pounding, winds blowing...your ship almost was destroyed by the fierce storm. But you survived the storm and now you are in a safe harbor and that's where Jesus is. He is your 'safe harbor'. And what does a ship do when it's in harbor? The ship rests. It is refurbished, re-fueled, repaired, cleaned, inspected. All to get ready for the next voyage. Jesus has given you this time, this safe harbor, for a reason, Janet. Rest in it and listen to Him."
She thought so much on those words of counsel. Yes, just rest. Regain strength, let the body and brain heal. "Wait on the Lord and renew strength." There is more work to do. The voyage is not over.
The loon family continues to grow and flourish. Because of erratic summer weather...cold, rainy, high winds then hot and humid, the loons have been hanging out in York Bay, just beyond our 'back bay'. Seventeen of the Weisiger family, including Beth, also Glenn and Stephanie's family were here at the lake for about a week enjoying fishing, swimming, jumping off the raft with the 4 lab dogs, water skiing, boating, eating ice cream, playing 'kick the can', walking the lane, looking for bears, fishers (dangerous animal, like a weasel, will feed on porcupine), so of course looking for porcupine, deer and looking for loons on the lake. Lots of laughs, noise, dirty wet towels and LOVE!
And in the midst of all the interaction and confusion, she kept her focus on her care giver, the Lord, Jesus Christ. Just as God provides the family of loons with their safe harbor in York Bay, just remember, Janet, that He has provided you with safe harbor in Jesus to recuperate. REST!
Monday, June 17, 2013
God's Creation
She had always been drawn to the wonders of nature and now in the midst of healing from brain cancer she found the delights and wonders of God's amazing world that much more fascinating. Now that she was relishing in the beauty of the summer months at their lake house in southern Ontario, there was much to share and rejoice.
They had always had a fascination for the loons, that intriguing water bird that resides on the northern lakes. The first time, back in 1969, when she first heard the loon call she was startled by the mournful, unique sound echoing across the lake. Ever since then the loon songs stirred a thrill within her heart.
Every year since 1992, they had built a loon platform out of sapling logs, covered with heavy black plastic mesh, strewn with dried heavy straw roped down to keep it from blowing away and anchored it in their back bay. This provided the loons with a safe, secure nesting site, protected from predators (like raccoons who would eat the eggs) and discourteous fishermen who could scare the loon off the nest. For years they had listened to the quiet cooing during the nesting period of the pair of loons. The loons patiently sat and waited about 28 days during hot sunny days and cold rainy nights for the chicks to hatch. They had watched as the pair of loons would give each other a break off the nest. Since the loon is a powerful swimmer the loon's legs are to the rear. Thus the loon has a great deal of difficulty walking on land. The nests, therefore, are close to the water and the loon must waddle onto the nest with great effort.
Then that glorious moment on a summer day in late June, a babble of loon sounds would alert them to the happy event of first one chick, then another chick pecking its way out of the brown shell to be alive! The mommy loon would wait for the second birth, then the adult pair would swim away from the nest, with the baby loons secure on their backs, constantly cooing and softly clucking with joy at their accomplishment. The loon family would then abandon the nest and swim to another nearby isolated bay in order to teach the chicks how to catch fish and to protect them from danger. She always marveled that in a few days the loon family would swim past their beach or cabin and sound their loon call as if proudly showing off their new chicks. The loons almost showed human characteristics as they daily swam in front of their cabin, chicks on their backs or close by, fearless of human presence.
Unfortunately, this year the loon platform was submerged from the mud and debris piled on by the muskrat. Dick was not able to build a new platform in time, so as the nesting season approached they waited to see what the loons would do. Then one day they realized one loon was seen quietly swimming back and forth across the entrance to the back bay. And they heard an occasional loon call from the far end of the back bay. Then they saw a loon sitting on part of an old board surrounded by vegetation and immersed in lily pads far in the back bay. The loon was screened by the bushes and saplings on the shore but they could see her and watch her day after day as they counted the days to hatching. They were overjoyed! They hadn't done a thing, yet the loons found a safe and secure nesting site all by themselves!
The time for hatching is any day now. We will keep you posted.
Someone was watching out for the loons. Indeed, the Creator has a plan and purpose for all His creatures. Why do we worry? Why do we doubt? He cares for the loons, so He definitely cares for me.
"Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? Which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature?" Matthew 6: 25-27
They had always had a fascination for the loons, that intriguing water bird that resides on the northern lakes. The first time, back in 1969, when she first heard the loon call she was startled by the mournful, unique sound echoing across the lake. Ever since then the loon songs stirred a thrill within her heart.
Every year since 1992, they had built a loon platform out of sapling logs, covered with heavy black plastic mesh, strewn with dried heavy straw roped down to keep it from blowing away and anchored it in their back bay. This provided the loons with a safe, secure nesting site, protected from predators (like raccoons who would eat the eggs) and discourteous fishermen who could scare the loon off the nest. For years they had listened to the quiet cooing during the nesting period of the pair of loons. The loons patiently sat and waited about 28 days during hot sunny days and cold rainy nights for the chicks to hatch. They had watched as the pair of loons would give each other a break off the nest. Since the loon is a powerful swimmer the loon's legs are to the rear. Thus the loon has a great deal of difficulty walking on land. The nests, therefore, are close to the water and the loon must waddle onto the nest with great effort.
Then that glorious moment on a summer day in late June, a babble of loon sounds would alert them to the happy event of first one chick, then another chick pecking its way out of the brown shell to be alive! The mommy loon would wait for the second birth, then the adult pair would swim away from the nest, with the baby loons secure on their backs, constantly cooing and softly clucking with joy at their accomplishment. The loon family would then abandon the nest and swim to another nearby isolated bay in order to teach the chicks how to catch fish and to protect them from danger. She always marveled that in a few days the loon family would swim past their beach or cabin and sound their loon call as if proudly showing off their new chicks. The loons almost showed human characteristics as they daily swam in front of their cabin, chicks on their backs or close by, fearless of human presence.
Unfortunately, this year the loon platform was submerged from the mud and debris piled on by the muskrat. Dick was not able to build a new platform in time, so as the nesting season approached they waited to see what the loons would do. Then one day they realized one loon was seen quietly swimming back and forth across the entrance to the back bay. And they heard an occasional loon call from the far end of the back bay. Then they saw a loon sitting on part of an old board surrounded by vegetation and immersed in lily pads far in the back bay. The loon was screened by the bushes and saplings on the shore but they could see her and watch her day after day as they counted the days to hatching. They were overjoyed! They hadn't done a thing, yet the loons found a safe and secure nesting site all by themselves!
The time for hatching is any day now. We will keep you posted.
Someone was watching out for the loons. Indeed, the Creator has a plan and purpose for all His creatures. Why do we worry? Why do we doubt? He cares for the loons, so He definitely cares for me.
"Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? Which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature?" Matthew 6: 25-27
Friday, May 17, 2013
Never Give Up!
Would she ever forget those first few weeks when she was diagnosed with cancer of the brain? Those memories kept bouncing around in her mind. She could not forget. She now realized God allowed her to keep those memories to learn something, to help someone, to actually keep track of her progress since those horrendous days of late June and early July of 2010.
She vividly recalled the morning after the brain biopsy. She sat in her hospital bed, feeling overwhelmed, confused and afraid. Just the previous evening she had been told "You have a lethal, aggressive cancer in your brain. You have seven weeks to live!"
So as she sat there that morning, she wondered, what was going to happen???
Then the group of doctors entered on 'morning rounds'. As a nurse she knew this was routine and a means to communicate with the other doctors the status of each patient. The brain surgeon was the last to arrive. He quickly stood in place with the other six doctors (and probably, student interns) and announced, "She has no use of her right arm because of the brain biopsy."
She heard the words but silently thought, "But Jesus told me I would be healed, BUT in His own time frame." She knew the arm was non-functioning now, but what about the future???
Then the usual post operative questions. "What is your name?" "Where are you?" "Who is President of the USA?"
She suddenly was stomped! Oh, what was his name? She remembered it started with an "O". But what was his name? She could not remember! Then, she blurted out, "Osama bin Laden"!
The doctors roared with laughter. Oh, she thought, "I have failed! I can't remember the name of our President!"
She started to weep, depressed over the situation. After all, the medical staff had laughed.
More questions followed but the weeping turned to sobbing and she was unable to answer any more questions. The doctors silently left the room. She was at the depths of her emotions and she began to wonder if things would ever be alright again.
Yes, she remembered those awful days. But what she had learned! First and foremost she had experienced the reality of Jesus. At the depths of her emotional struggles and the physical challenges He had been there!
(And finally, within a few months she remembered the name of the President of the USA - Barack Hussein Obama!)
Now here she was in May, 2013 and still facing physical challenges. BUT, she never gave up. She refused to give up. Things were improving.... and she was convinced it was because of her determination and God's presence. For example, she was thrilled that just yesterday, at their lake house, she vacuumed the kitchen, utility room and the wood floor of the great room! Of course, Dick had helped by getting the vacuum cleaner out of the closet BUT she did it! She laughed as she realized how silly this must sound to women who dread vacuuming. But she knew that the more she took on normal household chores, the healthier she would feel. And she was exultant that she could even clean toilets and bathroom sinks! (How hilarious!)
She remembered how Dick had said a year ago, "I look forward to the day when you can carry your own dishes to the sink." And now here she was in May, 2013, cooking most of their dinners (with Dick's assistance), planning their meals, cleaning counters, setting the table! She began to look forward to hosting dinner parties once again.
Another huge accomplishment was the way she climbed up and down stairs. Not perfect, but, she could now alternate feet on the steps. This was big and she rejoiced! Of course, none of this was easy but she kept pursuing perfection. As the days sped along she kept asking herself, "Try this, Janet. Bet you can do it." And she did! Just yesterday afternoon she even planted two pansy plants in her front planters. With one hand, but she did it!
And the right arm was beginning to perform slight functions. I will not give up, she repeated. With God's help I will not give up! During the past two weeks she had taken several trips to the super market. For the first time she had been able to place both hands on the grocery cart, which helped her balance, and steer the cart around the store. She could even pick out the products off the shelves. Her walking was improving and getting faster, without horrible fatigue, so she knew she was getting better!
Then, for the first time since May of 2010, she paid for the groceries with her credit card, all by herself! Wow! She certainly had come a long way from "seven weeks to live"! Sure, she still had a long way to go. She still couldn't drive, couldn't live alone, but God in His great mercy and love had chosen her to live a while longer to accomplish His purposes. How she wanted to encourage others with physical challenges. Don't give up! Never give up! God will encourage you, stand by you, comfort you and love you.
"Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." Joshua 1: 9
She vividly recalled the morning after the brain biopsy. She sat in her hospital bed, feeling overwhelmed, confused and afraid. Just the previous evening she had been told "You have a lethal, aggressive cancer in your brain. You have seven weeks to live!"
So as she sat there that morning, she wondered, what was going to happen???
Then the group of doctors entered on 'morning rounds'. As a nurse she knew this was routine and a means to communicate with the other doctors the status of each patient. The brain surgeon was the last to arrive. He quickly stood in place with the other six doctors (and probably, student interns) and announced, "She has no use of her right arm because of the brain biopsy."
She heard the words but silently thought, "But Jesus told me I would be healed, BUT in His own time frame." She knew the arm was non-functioning now, but what about the future???
Then the usual post operative questions. "What is your name?" "Where are you?" "Who is President of the USA?"
She suddenly was stomped! Oh, what was his name? She remembered it started with an "O". But what was his name? She could not remember! Then, she blurted out, "Osama bin Laden"!
The doctors roared with laughter. Oh, she thought, "I have failed! I can't remember the name of our President!"
She started to weep, depressed over the situation. After all, the medical staff had laughed.
More questions followed but the weeping turned to sobbing and she was unable to answer any more questions. The doctors silently left the room. She was at the depths of her emotions and she began to wonder if things would ever be alright again.
Yes, she remembered those awful days. But what she had learned! First and foremost she had experienced the reality of Jesus. At the depths of her emotional struggles and the physical challenges He had been there!
(And finally, within a few months she remembered the name of the President of the USA - Barack Hussein Obama!)
Now here she was in May, 2013 and still facing physical challenges. BUT, she never gave up. She refused to give up. Things were improving.... and she was convinced it was because of her determination and God's presence. For example, she was thrilled that just yesterday, at their lake house, she vacuumed the kitchen, utility room and the wood floor of the great room! Of course, Dick had helped by getting the vacuum cleaner out of the closet BUT she did it! She laughed as she realized how silly this must sound to women who dread vacuuming. But she knew that the more she took on normal household chores, the healthier she would feel. And she was exultant that she could even clean toilets and bathroom sinks! (How hilarious!)
She remembered how Dick had said a year ago, "I look forward to the day when you can carry your own dishes to the sink." And now here she was in May, 2013, cooking most of their dinners (with Dick's assistance), planning their meals, cleaning counters, setting the table! She began to look forward to hosting dinner parties once again.
Another huge accomplishment was the way she climbed up and down stairs. Not perfect, but, she could now alternate feet on the steps. This was big and she rejoiced! Of course, none of this was easy but she kept pursuing perfection. As the days sped along she kept asking herself, "Try this, Janet. Bet you can do it." And she did! Just yesterday afternoon she even planted two pansy plants in her front planters. With one hand, but she did it!
And the right arm was beginning to perform slight functions. I will not give up, she repeated. With God's help I will not give up! During the past two weeks she had taken several trips to the super market. For the first time she had been able to place both hands on the grocery cart, which helped her balance, and steer the cart around the store. She could even pick out the products off the shelves. Her walking was improving and getting faster, without horrible fatigue, so she knew she was getting better!
Then, for the first time since May of 2010, she paid for the groceries with her credit card, all by herself! Wow! She certainly had come a long way from "seven weeks to live"! Sure, she still had a long way to go. She still couldn't drive, couldn't live alone, but God in His great mercy and love had chosen her to live a while longer to accomplish His purposes. How she wanted to encourage others with physical challenges. Don't give up! Never give up! God will encourage you, stand by you, comfort you and love you.
"Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." Joshua 1: 9
Thursday, May 9, 2013
"Paradise Hill"
On Sunday, April 28, we returned to our lake house on the Rideau Waterway in Ontario, Canada.
She named their lake property "Paradise Hill" back in 1992 after they had retired from New Jersey and moved to their newly built house on Sand Lake. Located on the beautiful, little known Rideau Waterway in southern Ontario, they rejoiced every day that God had planned for them to spend their retirement years in an earthly paradise.
For one thing, the Rideau Waterway fascinated them with its history. Built back in 1832 by the British, the waterway canal served as a defense against possible invading armies from that upstart neighbor south of the border, the United States of America. The War of 1812 had given the British much concern as American forces fought on the St. Lawrence River near Brockville, Ontario. (The Americans lost that battle.) So the British enlisted a man by the name of Colonel By to build a canal from Kingston (original capital of the territory) to Ottawa. Many lakes dotted the area so Colonel By, studied the geography and mapped the route.
One of the formidable challenges were the rapids around the area known as Jones Falls, a sizeable drop to navigate. Colonel By supervised building a dam at the Jones Falls site to control the water flow and then proceeded to build four locks so that boats could descend to the next lake. That dam in 1832 was known to be an architectural marvel at that time. Jones Falls is actually located at the southern end of Sand Lake and Davis Lock at the northern end.
At the juncture of every lake throughout the canal system, locks had to be built because of the typographical changes in elevation. They were, of course, hand operated. The charm of the Rideau Waterway is that most of these locks are still hand operated. There is very little commercialism at the lock stations. You can buy an ice cream cone (Canadian ice cream is superior because of the high amount of butter fat - Yum) or fishing lures or perhaps a minor gift item, but nothing high-tech.
Sitting on their screen porch of their lake house this May of 2013, she gazed out over the lake. She saw no cottages. Only the quaint, small white lockmaster's house at Davis Lock could be seen across the water about a mile away. Otherwise, just sandy, rocky shore line with pine and maple trees towering above.
They thought back on how they purchased the property and realized that purchase was God designed. When they first came to Sand Lake in 1969, they had four little children and very little money. They rented a cottage for $35.00 a week! Of course, the 'log cabin' had no running water and an outhouse. But it sat right on the shoreline of a large lake, the children loved carrying the water pails to the pump and drawing fresh water, playing in the clear warm water at the beach and walking barefoot.
Sand Lake had cottages spotted around the lake but they were hidden behind trees. So, for years they looked for a 'place'. Lack of money left them with a dream. Then in 1985 an opportunity lighted! She was employed as a nurse, the kids were rapidly finishing college so they made an incredible offer for seven acres of waterfront. It was accepted and at last they held their dream! Of course one big challenge remained - there was no road to the lot, only water access. But they parked their car at a friend's cottage at the far end of the lake and paddled 30 minutes in their canoe to their dream land. This went on for several years - camping in the 'Shack', gazing at sunsets, fighting off porcupine, making trails through the woods, bathing in the lake (who was there to spy???), cowering at the sound of wolves devouring their prey, awakening in the middle of the night to the osprey's blood curdling squawk, listening to the unique and varied melodious loon songs, keeping close watch on the yearly new pair of loon chicks, fishing and gorging on dinners of fresh large mouth bass and enjoying peace and quiet.
Then the two farmers who owned the land through which they needed road access both died and their widows granted the access. In fact, one of the farmers, Ted Ritz, told his wife as they were in the ambulance going to the hospital, as he was dying from cancer, "Ruby, make sure the Weisigers get that right-of-way through our property!" The road was built in the winter of '88-'89 and in that summer they celebrated Beth and Bruce's wedding in the newly built gazebo. Then in 1992, after much planning, building and praying, a year round home stood on Paradise Hill!
Gardens, a boat house, the 'Little House' (another cabin) kept them busy improving their property. Her gardens filled with clemantis, daisies, roses, lilies, phlox, astilbe, peonies, morning glories, obedience plants, spring daffodils and tulips, iris, geraniums, petunias, and impatience caught the attention of the local horticultural society and subsequently an author who sought stories and photos of Ontario gardens. Thus the need to come up with a name for their property. Without hesitation she announced, "Paradise Hill". Her gardens received notice in that book.
So here she was back 'home'. She hired someone to rake and clean the garden beds. With all the perennials blooming, the gardens would be 'au naturel'. Because of her arm and leg weakness she was unable to garden. But, she concluded, she would enjoy the naturel beauty of God's creation, instead of trying to create additional years of perfect gardens. She talked a friend into coming and planting some pots with colorful annuals. That would have to be enough!
A rain shower poured down on the land one afternoon. And she marveled. Even the rain had a soft beauty as the drops splatted on the metal roof. Yes, she was glad to be back and ever thankful of this amazing gift of land God had given them.
Soon the 12 grandchildren would arrive and fill the house, screened porch and property with laughter, squeals, busy activity, games of 'kick the can', wet swim towels, shouts from the swimming raft, screams from the water skiers, young fishermen expertly filleting fresh caught bass, barking dogs and appetites hungry for PopPops' waffles topped with delicious local maple syrup! Yes, it was going to be a wonderful summer!
"Praise the Lord! Praise God in His sanctuary; Praise Him in His mighty firmament!
Praise Him for His mighty acts; Praise Him according to His excellent greatness!
Praise Him with the sound of the trumpet; Praise Him with the lute and harp!
Praise Him with the timbrel and dance; Praise Him with stringed instruments and flutes!
Praise Him with loud cymbals; Praise Him with clashing cymbals!
Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord! Psalm 150
She named their lake property "Paradise Hill" back in 1992 after they had retired from New Jersey and moved to their newly built house on Sand Lake. Located on the beautiful, little known Rideau Waterway in southern Ontario, they rejoiced every day that God had planned for them to spend their retirement years in an earthly paradise.
For one thing, the Rideau Waterway fascinated them with its history. Built back in 1832 by the British, the waterway canal served as a defense against possible invading armies from that upstart neighbor south of the border, the United States of America. The War of 1812 had given the British much concern as American forces fought on the St. Lawrence River near Brockville, Ontario. (The Americans lost that battle.) So the British enlisted a man by the name of Colonel By to build a canal from Kingston (original capital of the territory) to Ottawa. Many lakes dotted the area so Colonel By, studied the geography and mapped the route.
One of the formidable challenges were the rapids around the area known as Jones Falls, a sizeable drop to navigate. Colonel By supervised building a dam at the Jones Falls site to control the water flow and then proceeded to build four locks so that boats could descend to the next lake. That dam in 1832 was known to be an architectural marvel at that time. Jones Falls is actually located at the southern end of Sand Lake and Davis Lock at the northern end.
At the juncture of every lake throughout the canal system, locks had to be built because of the typographical changes in elevation. They were, of course, hand operated. The charm of the Rideau Waterway is that most of these locks are still hand operated. There is very little commercialism at the lock stations. You can buy an ice cream cone (Canadian ice cream is superior because of the high amount of butter fat - Yum) or fishing lures or perhaps a minor gift item, but nothing high-tech.
Sitting on their screen porch of their lake house this May of 2013, she gazed out over the lake. She saw no cottages. Only the quaint, small white lockmaster's house at Davis Lock could be seen across the water about a mile away. Otherwise, just sandy, rocky shore line with pine and maple trees towering above.
They thought back on how they purchased the property and realized that purchase was God designed. When they first came to Sand Lake in 1969, they had four little children and very little money. They rented a cottage for $35.00 a week! Of course, the 'log cabin' had no running water and an outhouse. But it sat right on the shoreline of a large lake, the children loved carrying the water pails to the pump and drawing fresh water, playing in the clear warm water at the beach and walking barefoot.
Sand Lake had cottages spotted around the lake but they were hidden behind trees. So, for years they looked for a 'place'. Lack of money left them with a dream. Then in 1985 an opportunity lighted! She was employed as a nurse, the kids were rapidly finishing college so they made an incredible offer for seven acres of waterfront. It was accepted and at last they held their dream! Of course one big challenge remained - there was no road to the lot, only water access. But they parked their car at a friend's cottage at the far end of the lake and paddled 30 minutes in their canoe to their dream land. This went on for several years - camping in the 'Shack', gazing at sunsets, fighting off porcupine, making trails through the woods, bathing in the lake (who was there to spy???), cowering at the sound of wolves devouring their prey, awakening in the middle of the night to the osprey's blood curdling squawk, listening to the unique and varied melodious loon songs, keeping close watch on the yearly new pair of loon chicks, fishing and gorging on dinners of fresh large mouth bass and enjoying peace and quiet.
Then the two farmers who owned the land through which they needed road access both died and their widows granted the access. In fact, one of the farmers, Ted Ritz, told his wife as they were in the ambulance going to the hospital, as he was dying from cancer, "Ruby, make sure the Weisigers get that right-of-way through our property!" The road was built in the winter of '88-'89 and in that summer they celebrated Beth and Bruce's wedding in the newly built gazebo. Then in 1992, after much planning, building and praying, a year round home stood on Paradise Hill!
Gardens, a boat house, the 'Little House' (another cabin) kept them busy improving their property. Her gardens filled with clemantis, daisies, roses, lilies, phlox, astilbe, peonies, morning glories, obedience plants, spring daffodils and tulips, iris, geraniums, petunias, and impatience caught the attention of the local horticultural society and subsequently an author who sought stories and photos of Ontario gardens. Thus the need to come up with a name for their property. Without hesitation she announced, "Paradise Hill". Her gardens received notice in that book.
So here she was back 'home'. She hired someone to rake and clean the garden beds. With all the perennials blooming, the gardens would be 'au naturel'. Because of her arm and leg weakness she was unable to garden. But, she concluded, she would enjoy the naturel beauty of God's creation, instead of trying to create additional years of perfect gardens. She talked a friend into coming and planting some pots with colorful annuals. That would have to be enough!
A rain shower poured down on the land one afternoon. And she marveled. Even the rain had a soft beauty as the drops splatted on the metal roof. Yes, she was glad to be back and ever thankful of this amazing gift of land God had given them.
Soon the 12 grandchildren would arrive and fill the house, screened porch and property with laughter, squeals, busy activity, games of 'kick the can', wet swim towels, shouts from the swimming raft, screams from the water skiers, young fishermen expertly filleting fresh caught bass, barking dogs and appetites hungry for PopPops' waffles topped with delicious local maple syrup! Yes, it was going to be a wonderful summer!
"Praise the Lord! Praise God in His sanctuary; Praise Him in His mighty firmament!
Praise Him for His mighty acts; Praise Him according to His excellent greatness!
Praise Him with the sound of the trumpet; Praise Him with the lute and harp!
Praise Him with the timbrel and dance; Praise Him with stringed instruments and flutes!
Praise Him with loud cymbals; Praise Him with clashing cymbals!
Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord! Psalm 150
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