Trial Balloon

In thinking ahead to the time of Loren's transplant, I've been making mental and handwritten notes about what needs to be done.

The most important thing is to find someone to stay with the children during the three months Loren and I have to be up in Rochester after his operation. Three months, a whole season. I am going to miss birthdays, maybe a major holiday or two.

I had thought that perhaps I could trade off with some friends or relatives, but I am beginning to doubt the wisdom in that. I have been reading some patient transplant stories and it is becoming increasingly clear how much Loren is going to need me during that time.

I am just wondering if there is a niece or nephew out there who wants to be involved in short-term missionary work? Someone who does not have responsibility for young children. There is no particular pay involved, other than room and board. The room is private; you will only share it with the wireless equipment. :-) As to the board, well, I haven't quite figured out a few details such as bill paying, getting our mail, and yes, the aquiring of food. (there is government assistance involved, which complicates things) But that can be worked out.

I have wonderful plans. Plans to clean up assorted repositories of clutter. Plans to record stories on tape for the kids to play at night, in hopes that Trevor doesn't forget his own mummy. (sniff)
Plans to assign an older child to Nolan and to Ethan to assist them in Kindergarten and 2nd grade studies, respectively. Plans to secure neighbors to shuttle Jason and Kendra to different pre-college tests they need to take. Plans to order all birthday and Christmas presents within the next month, so something will be on hand even if I am not. Plans to......well, we'll see how much gets accomplished.

The main thing is to get someone lined up for the kids. A person who can come on fairly short notice. (interim help can always be arranged) And the kids can survive on their own for short periods. They do not need 24/7 supervision. But three months is a little long to be "home alone."

So there you have it. I am open to suggestions. But I feel it would be best if I am with Loren all the time. (might be able to get away for a few hours occasionally) I know his medical history and I don't want to miss anything. He knows he can just be his miserable self with me :-)

Think about it. Many thanks.

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