Doin's of the Day

Many things occurred today, so let's hop to it!

Loren decided that this day, the day before possibly traveling to Iowa to see the children again, would be the ideal time to take the car in to have them check on the starting problem. Being the good, and utterly submissive wifie that I am, I said nothing, at least nothing much more than, "Couldn't this have waited until next week?

We found the car dealership with little problem, discovering the phone book map was only wrong on one count: which side of the 4 lane highway it was ON. After dropping off the car, we were taken by the dealership courtesy shuttle to our first appointment at the Gonda building.

Time for Pain Therapy for Loren's crushed vertebra. The physical therapist used a TENS device, placing the electrodes along Loren's spinal column. This little gizmo is then turned on to produce the electrical stimulus that is supposed to interrupt the pain pathway. Last time it was adjusted to a steady rate , but this time the therapist put it on a modulating wave-type frequency that made Loren jump a little bit :-) But by the end of the session, his pain, which had been at a level 2, was completely gone. His back hurts worse by evening, but still, the therapy seems to help, and results can last up to 4 hours.

Loren was given some exercises with the abdominals that are supposed to give him better core stability in his back. He is also encouraged to stand up straight and "not slump, " as bad posture can aggravate more compression fractures.

There was one moment of mortification when Loren took off his outer shirt. Several days of putting off the washing had led to the bottom of the undershirt pile. You know, the ones with HOLES in them :-( "You mean Santa didn't bring you new underwear? " kidded the therapist. Apparently not. But "Santa" made plans to start the laundry as soon as we returned to the "Big House."

Rehab followed, and then, having no car, we waited for the shuttle back to Gift of Life. Being one floor up from a large open atrium, we were well within earshot of the fine piano player on the subway level. I strolled over and rested my arms on the railing, listening as the woman played beautifully by ear. It was about this time that my watch, totally of it's own volition, became unfastened and fell from my wrist. I could not choke back a little gasp, as I thought of it hitting someone one floor below. But it had landed on a small ledge beyond the railing. Beyond anyone's grasp. A nice couple next to me offered to knock it off with the edge of a folder, where I, having gone down the stairway, neatly caught it.

Well, in retrospect, it doesn't sound all that exciting. You have to realize, it takes so little to amuse some people :-) And, at least I will not have to consider a lawsuit against Wal-Mart for selling cheap watches-that-come-apart-and-could-cause-possible-injury-to-atriumly-
placed-persons.


The shuttle arrived before any other untoward occurrences.

Upon hearing that the car was fixed, Loren had a slight moment of teeth gnashing. A shuttle was en route to ferry us to the car dealership, and......and.......there were two computer parts to be bid on at Ebay! Nothing for it, but to place a bid and hope for the best. We picked up our car and arrived back at the house. On the way up the elevator, Loren murmured, "Well, I wonder how the bidding turned out....." Ever the sage bearer of encouragement, I replied with a sly smile, "The Lord giveth, and the Lord taketh away."
Well, in this instance, the Lord gaveth. Loren won his absentee bids. A car fixed and a bid won, all in the same day. How can things get any better?

I'll tell you how. Tomorrow, Lord willing, we shall visit the kids, again :-)

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"There's no place like home..... There's no place like home......."

Speaking of echoes, Loren and I arrived 30 minutes ahead of time for his echocardiogram this morning, in hopes that he would get taken early. They had us tightly scheduled with appointments and we wondered if we could possibly be on time by the 11:00 Rehab. But, I guess if you are slated first, there's no going early.

Spouses are not routinely taken back for the echoes, which sometimes last as long as 2 hours. So, feeling the usual dry granola bar would not be sufficient reward for a potentially long wait, I hastened to the cafeteria. (after Loren got called back, naturally) I happily purchased eggs, fried potatoes, bacon and grapefruit juice. I like to think of this as the Carb/no-Carb approach. Sort of the "Yin Yang" of the diet world. Along with the food, I purchased the morning paper, once again desiring to give the impression that I am not a LOSER who has to eat alone, but rather a learned person, who uses even her moments of repast to become better informed.

It is difficult to appear truly erudite when food keeps falling from your mouth. Reading the paper and achieving fork accuracy are apparently harder than I'd anticipated. But I gave it my best shot.

Back on the ultrasound floor, I had hardly settled into a comfy chair with Tolstoy, when Loren magically appeared by my side.
"You're done? Already?" (only 45 minutes)
"This tech was really good. She got everything the first time, and the doctor didn't have to do anything over himself."
"Hmmm. I'm almost sorry I went down and had a hot breakfast...."
*incredulous look from hubby*

*apologetic grin*

We checked in for the next appointment and watched Fox News while Loren feasted on his dry, crunchy granola bar, which, by the way, was HIS choice. The quick echo now gave us an edge on the rest of the morning's appointments, which Loren managed to whittle down with his usual spate of questions. We got to Rehab 5 minutes before deadline.

Luckily for Loren, his regular taskmaster is off for the week, so he's been repeating the same routine on the treadmill and Nu-step. Upon his release from the exercise jungle, I informed him that his cowboy booted bride had not been idle. I had worked the phones and walked the halls, renewing a prescription and setting up a barbershop appointment in 20 minutes.

"Now," Loren reminded me, "You're going to watch him do this flat-top, aren't you?"
*thinks longingly of thick book in tote back*
"Uh, OK."
*resigns self to not reading*

I watched Dale as he worked his magic. He made it all look so easy with those quick, deft movements of comb and clippers. I seriously doubt that I can duplicate his artistry. But, it could be rather fun experimenting on the boys......
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We received a nice letter from daughter Carolyn, today. She was obviously trying out some of the new glitter pens acquired over Christmas.
(turquoise) dear mommy and daddy
i am glad you could come for Cristmas.
(yellow) i made a calender for when you come back.
(silver) i hope everything is going well for you.
(orange) everything is going well over here.
(hot pink) i am feeling fine i hope you are to.
(purple) i love you and daddy very much i hope time goes fast so that you can come home soon
(orange, again) i miss you both
Love carolyn

Awwwww....

At least i know what to work on when we get home.

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Biopsy Day

Another heart biopsy, today. The orders specified an angiogram, but after calling back and forth they told Loren, "Nope, it's a biopsy." We just received word not long ago that it showed zero rejection! Naturally, we are very pleased.

Tomorrow is another early day, with an echo scheduled, as well as Rehab, and the usual coordinator and doctor visits. I should be able to get a decent start on "Anna Karenina," by Tolstoy. Looking forward to reading it, despite the miniscule print.

I finished my first (and probably last :-) Louis L'Amour book today, "Showdown at Yellow Butte." I think it's the adult alternative to the Hardy Boys. Sort of. I enjoyed reading about Captain Tom Kedrick, who always stood ramrod straight, could fight equally well with hands or guns, and just in general typified your average western fellow of sinewy strength who stands up for the little guy, takes care of the bad guys, and marries the pretty girl. And somehow, he spreads it over 150 pages.

And, as if that were not enough, I ran across the word, "hombre."(which is Spanish for "Clint Eastwood") Only 9 lessons, and this study del español is already starting to pay amazing dividends.

Ol' Louis may only be pulp fiction, but he's got Hemingway beat, hands down, far and away, above and beyond, from here to eternity.

This is Ma Hoyt, over and out.

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Sadness

Two people died today.

One was a man in his 40's, who had been waiting for a heart for many months. He had been existing with the help of a Ventricular Assist Device. He finally got his new heart on Christmas Day. Then, he suffered a massive stroke.

The other is the 20 year old young man named Ryan, whom I spoke of in an earlier post. His dad lost his first wife in childbirth. The baby survived, and was raised by his father and his second wife. They also adopted Ryan. The fist boy died 3 years ago in the service. Now their only other child has passed away this day.

I did not know either of the young men, but I have met and talked with their parents.

This is not mentioned to make people feel sad, but I am remembering that along with Loren's progress, others are experiencing the opposite.

It is difficult to comprehend why God demands so much of some families.

I'm sure they would appreciate your prayers.

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Gifts and More Gifts

Ma would like to thank all the crew down Letourneau way for (picture 22 from top) this. The words say, "Your Inheritance." The pot seems empty, but I am considering giving it a brisk rubbing to see if a genie appears. It now rests in a treasured spot on my computer desk, nestled safely on a clever decorative mat that Melinda fashioned out of yarn. The gift comes about due to the fact that I have, on very rare occasions, made mention of "certain people" achieving or losing will status.

Will status is not exclusive to family members only, and provides me with interesting leverage in the constant ebb and flow of my threats to various acquaintances. This all started with my dad, who used to give out similar warnings on matters as paltry as whether or not we liked his freshly baked pies. ("Tell me they're delicious, or you're out of the will!")We children soon learned how to lavish praise, at least until after the pie was consumed. Any gifts in the area of schmoozing, I owe to my father.

My dear hubby gave me something I had secretly wished for, though I never dropped any hints. I can hardly wait to (picture at bottom of list) model it for some of my Libertarian "contacts." I'm even considering wearing it at a certain wedding we've been invited to. Paired with a red skirt, and a silk scarf, I think we could end up with something très chic.

Loren brought back a wireless keyboard, which I guess is his present to himself. It's main attractions are threefold: (for me) 1) It has a nice resistance in keyboard action, similar to playing a Steinway grand piano. I like that :-) 2) You can hold it on your lap, which cuts down on the carpal tunnel stress, and 3) You can mute those annoying commercials from an attitude of repose, instead of having to engage in athletic maneuvers that spoil the relaxation of a movie.

The children mostly got books, thanks to Ebay and half.com. I think they favored this Christmas over the one several years back in which they all got socks. Just socks. (see, the year be-FORE that terrible Christmas, we had had a lot of gifts sent to the family, so, I held back on ours, and wouldn't you know it, NOBODY sent any, and, I say this not to complain, but merely to explain that IT WASN'T MY FAULT!)

And while we're on the subject of gifts, I would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the many folks who have showered foodstuffs upon our family, namely, the children. I would also make a small plea that, perhaps no more eatables are needed, for quite a while! Things are stacked on counters and various places, and the possibility of not being able to use it all looms on the horizon. So, thanks to everyone, and now might be a good time to hold back for a while :-)

I cannot possibly mention all of the many wonderful ways that people have expressed their generosity. But we thank you, and we thank God for blessing us, through you.

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The Best Christmas, Ever

We have returned from our Christmas excursion to the lone prairies of Iowa. What a glorious time! I cannot remember when I have laughed so much. Loren and I are already thinking about the next time we can get away.

For the first time in approximately three years, Loren got behind the wheel. (well, not counting moving vehicles in the drive, or taking a short test run in a newly maintenanced car) It was nice for me to have a respite from driving. (I know you teenagers will not understand this) Particularly since I still exerted full control of the radio :-)

We received some very "appropriate" presents, the details of which I will go into tomorrow. And I think it is safe to say the kids will have a lot to "view" in the coming dull winter months.

All the tribe is doing fine. More than fine, they are thriving. Loren thinks Jason may have eclipsed him in height. The menfolk kept themselves busy by thawing a frozen pipe, checking on all the vehicles, and rounding up more electronic paraphernalia for Loren to bring back.

I had plenty of opportunities to snuggle and cuddle with the younger ones. I even got to chase Trevor on my hands and knees, eliciting squeals of unbridled glee. It was SO fun to mess about in the kitchen, and laugh and tease and laugh some more. I had tears coming from my eyes, more than once. Laughing and crying may seem like opposite extremes, but when each takes it's course around the globe of emotion, they meet once again, hitting head on in a frenzy that can turn from laughing to crying to laughing again in a moment. It was good exercise.

Ardith and Sharon did all the cooking, and a fine Christmas dinner, it was. We are filled to the brim, with good food and boisterous fellowship.

Nolan looked a little surprised when we headed toward the door, and Carolyn got teary, which she is apt to do. But guys, we shall return! The meeting made all the sweeter by being apart for a time. At least your ma and pa can rest in the knowledge that you are all doing great, together.

God be praised.

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Merry Christmas to All

It is Christmas morning, André Rieu in playing beautiful music and I am so happy I could burst!

In an hour or so, we leave to drive down to be with the kids for part of the day. Hooray!

I can't wait to start smothering them with kisses. A long as they let me hug them, they get to stay in the will. (that means you too, Jason :-)

God's blessings to all. Love, Ma.

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"Ma" Comes In From the Cold

The day was quite cold,
The car would not start,
I had to walk down
To the gas station-mart...
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So, it was a balmy 6 degrees outside, and someone had to walk a few blocks to buy starter fluid.

"Now, this comes in an aerosol can and says, 'Starting Fluid?'"
"It's start-er fluid."
"Ok. Start-er fluid. Got it."

It didn't seem too cold, at first. But when I reached the closest gasoline station, (4 blocks)
they did not have the item. The next place was five more blocks. But that was alright. I had an extra sweater on. And so I trudged my way past St. Mary's hospital, and on past McDonald's. It was here that my nose started to water. Well, as I always say, that's why God invented gloves.

I stumbled into the warmth of the gas station/mini mart. "It's OK! I'm alright!" *cough, cough*
(weird glances from proprietors) I made my way to the car accessories aisle. Hmmm, starter fluid, starter fluid..... I couldn't find it. But I did see a can of start-ing fluid. *smirk*

I made my purchase, and asked the saleslady for a sack. "Our car wouldn't start, and I had to walk here....." "Here ya go. Try something, and if that doesn't work, try something else."

Immortal words to live by. So simple, and yet so un-profound. I only hoped I could remember them on the way back, in order to write them into the annals of my cheap spiral notebook.

I clutched the can of starter fluid under my arm to keep it warm. No sense in both of us succumbing to the cold. I was vaguely aware that my package resembled a Nip O' Gin, a Fifth of Vermouth, or the really hard stuff, Sparkling Cider. My stumbling gait did not help my appearance. But when have I ever cared what people thought? (most of the time, actually)

It was now that I discovered why it hadn't seemed so bad starting out. The wind had been at my back, and was now against me. No matter! Brave little soldiers must press on! *sound of plodding feet* Was it my imagination? Or was The Transplant house getting farther away? I could no longer feel my legs, but still I labored on.

"Must keep moving.... must keep moving....." *gasp* I set my sights on the small white sign ahead, "Gift of Life Transplant House. I kept it as my bearing.....but wait, it was not the right sign! My iced over brain had played a cold-hearted trick on me.

It was now eerily quiet on the street. There was hardly any traffic. Oh yeah, that's because it's Christmas Eve, and most people are doing something FUN, instead of treading the frozen wilds of Minnesota.

Finally I reached The House. My numb fingers managed to find the right coordinates for the security code. I heard the "clink" of the lock as it disengaged. I opened the door, and......ah, blissful warmth!

I entered our room in modest triumph. "Here's your Start-ing Fluid."
"Thanks. Was it cold?" "I'll let you know, if sensation ever returns to my legs."
__________________

The task was complete,
The car it did start,
All thanks to the can
From the gas station-mart.

The End

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Loren Goes Electric

Not much to tell, tonight. Loren had Rehab for the last time this week. (the clinic is taking Christmas Eve off. And I have heard they are clearing as many patients as possible out of the hospital for Christmas)

I ran to Walmart and got back a little late to pick up Loren, and then was informed he had another appointment in less than an hour! So we scurried back to the Big House, shoveled lunch down our throats and then Loren was off to his Pain Therapy. I did not go in with him, so you will have to accept a third hand report. There was a heating pad for 20 minutes, *yawn* and then some type of electrical stimulation of the area of the crushed vertabra. *glances over at hubby taking nightly blood pressure* "How would you describe that pain therapy stuff, Loren? This is for the folks back home, dear...." *presses fists to temples, thinks deeply* "I don't know. Sorta like blood rushing back into your finger after you've squished it. "

So, there you have it. Straight from the horse's mouth, or, as we like to say it in "Ma's" Spanish class, "Straight del moutho del horso." (I couldn't find it in my puny glossary, but I'm pretty sure that was it. Yeah, we're gonna go with that)

Another laundry day. It's a good thing we don't beat that stuff on the rocks anymore, 'cause this weather would be murder on the hands. By the way, that prodigal sock I mentioned earlier has returned. I guess it discovered life in the big city was not all it's cracked up to be. I didn't ask any questions, just stuck it quietly in the drawer.

Loren is thrilled to pieces since the audio adapter Ardith mailed two days ago arrived this afternoon. That completes our clandestine cable hookup. I think the Guest Guidebook was set up by people who did not comprehend that a computer and a cable outlet in the wall equals a TV, conspiratorially speaking. We are still living by the letter of the law, anyway. Though how I will get my Spanish lessons learned with Fox News on half the day, I do NOT know. I told Loren, "Now there's even less reason to leave the room. " "Exactly. That's the whole point."

Time to mosey off to bed. I finally finished, "The Hope," (which reminds me, Mom and Dad, I trust you still have that book about Abba Eban. I have a hankerin' to read that.....) and now on to quite different material, "The Yearling." It's never too late to catch up on what the public school system neglected in my literature classes.

Speaking of being young, here is a picture of several of the kids during tree decoration activity. Carolyn (10) is partially hidden, but those scamps, Ethan (8) and Nolan (5) are in plain view for all to admire. They do not always display such fraternal affection.......

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"Ma" Goes Prospecting

Another day of rehab, and the slave drivers bumped it up a notch. Loren was so tired he came back and promptly fell asleep in the recliner. When it got close to lunch time, I went over and sat on the bed, pondering the best way to gently awaken him. OOPS! I sat on his glasses. He proceeded to start bending them back into position without even trying them on. That's what I call executive decision making.

After lunch (it was a slow day, folks, so bear with me) I found I could not ignore the overflowing wastebaskets any longer, so I proceeded to empty them, clean the bathroom, and even swept the rug! It's amazing what you will stoop to when time hangs heavy on los manos.

All of this cleaning activity, in spite of the fact that "The Hope" was waiting for me, with the Six Day War having just commenced. I don't like to brag, but when one can put off a fascinating book for the sake of domestic ministrations, it certainly demonstrates some measure of self control, not to mention humility.

As I ventured out into the frigid air to toss my trash into the dumpster, what should I spy, but a rolled up piece of perfectly good foam! Feeling akin to my foraging fore bearers, I snatched it out, no doubt, saving it from an ignoble death in some landfill.

It looked perfectly clean, because, as we all know, they don't even let the trash in this place get dirty. Someone must have ditched it when they were released, not wanting to drag it back home with them. As I carted it up to our room, I passed one of the "sisters" in the hall, and in my haste, temporarily snagged my dumpster-find on a door knob. She cheerfully assisted in it's disentanglement, none the wiser to it's recent abode. (when you're "doing time," little things mean a lot)

Nearly intoxicated with my recent successful acquisition, I boldly proceeded to the last three bookshelves that I had not yet "cased." :-) It was there that I discovered, "To Kill a Mockingbird," "The Collected Tales of A.E. Coppard," "Disraeli," and Mark Twain's, "Life on the Mississippi." I pirated them back to our chamber, along with a couple for the hubby, by O'Reilly and Hannity.

I feel like a miser, hoarding his gold. Most of 25 books, now quietly stashed in our living quarters. My own little library, to pick and choose from as I please. I feel rich, I tell you, RICH! *furtively glances around, to make sure no one has overheard*

I must go and count my libros.

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Hemingway Stinks

Ok. I tried. I REALLY tried. But all I could bear was the first nine chapters of "The Sun Also Rises." I kept waiting and waiting, but "Ol' Sol" never so much as peeped over the horizon.

There was a clever turn of the phrase here, and a subtle treatment of character there. At least, in the first 3 pages. Then he started into the dialogue. Long, boring segments of banal, insipid talk. I thought, "Surely something of interest (not to mention a vague thread of coherence or plot) will come along. I just haven't read enough, yet." But, alas, I read too much. Approximately nine chapters too much.

Why is this fellow considered a famous author? Why was he published, more than once? Call me an ignoramus, just don't ask me to read Hemingway again. "Ma's" verdict? Thumbs down.


Speaking of rejection, the biopsy this morning registered the smallest amount, "1a." There are several stages of possible rejection, and you can click on the different types to see examples, if you are hankering for a stroll down biology lane. The coordinator stressed to us that "1a" is considered nearly the same as zero rejection. No change in medication is indicated, and it is almost expected to show up at some point in time. Still, it has taken a bit of wind from our sails.

Loren said they took 7 samplings, instead of the usual 4 or 5. When the instrument actually attaches to the heart wall to collect a sample, the heart jumps around, can race a few beats, or can seem to stop altogether. It's a little disconcerting, but Loren says it didn't bother him quite so much this morning as on other occasions.

We did discover that Loren's cholesterol and triglycerides are up, so his dosage of Pravachol is being doubled to 40mg. But the doc's overall assessment was very good. "You're a rose," he encouraged. (I'm not sure what he had been reading. Possibly Shakespeare)

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Pizza party in the Big House, tonight, courtesy of the Edward Pompeian family. He developed the idea for the Gift of Life Transplant House, out of his experience with his mother donating him a kidney. She still works here! They told me she is close to 80, but I'd say she looks more like 60.

His son, a sophomore in college, favored us with beautiful violin music, accompanied on the piano by his mother. Extremely pleasant listening. The Mennonite girls (plus one guy :-) sang Christmas carols in another dining room. Quite the festive occasion. Just the right atmosphere to make one feel like crying. It might have been knowing that the kids put up the Christmas tree without us, this evening. Sharon sent us a great picture of Tannenbaum "in process." As soon as she gets it on a website, I'll link it here.

Well, now, when the going gets tough, the tough get chocolate! Thank you, MoM! A little care package arrived in the mail today. A bag of Ghirardelli Squares of Dark Chocolate with White Mint Filling. Yum! And of course, the ever necessary staple, Dove's Dark Chocolates.

Good timing, MoM :-) I think God had a hand in this.

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Ma Rehabs Español

More rehab, today. Loren said they moved it up a notch, and he seems to have survived. That ol' wheelchair is out of the picture, for good!

We checked our calendars and wondered why the medicos had not scheduled us for the next Cyto-gam treatment. They wondered too! Someone forgot, but we had it done today, only one day late. It was scheduled for 2:30, but did not start until 3:30, and finished about 6. *sigh* We had a different room this time, and my first reaction was, "What, no TV?!" The reason I hadn't spied it was because instead of the usual black monolith, there was a little nine-inch monitor connected to the wall by an arm. The whole TV set-up is highly reminiscent of those adjustable light fixtures at the dental office. I only banged my head on it three times. Nothing much on TV that time of day, so we settled for "Andy Griffith." But Loren drew the line at "Leave it to Beaver," which came next. Not even a hokey Christmas movie to watch.

Tomorrow will be yet another biopsy. Four weeks in a row and THEN it goes to every two weeks. I just love getting up at 5:30 in the morning. That will be the last big day of appointments for this week. There are one hour rehab sessions on Wed. and Thurs.

And now, it is time for a the newest regular update on the blog:

"Ma's Daily Spanish Carnage"

I finished lesson 3 today. We learned about possessives and definite and indefinite articles, the latter of which is defined as "any item that has been in my purse for over 6 months."

In this particular grammar book, the answers are not given, but I think I am doing fairly well. I am finally understanding my sons and their struggles in Greek, though. They have claimed that questions are asked for which material has not always been covered. Well, boys, sometimes you just have to improvise a little. For instance, here is an example of some of the possessive stuff I learned today: "Yo tengo tener chocolate. Pronto!" ("I have to have chocolate. Now!")

I had to sorta guess at that exclamatory word. Am I right, or am I thinking of the Lone Ranger's horse.....?

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Ends and Odds

First of all, I would just like to say that the question posed at the end of that last blog was rhetorical in nature. It was nothing more than a touch of piquancy. Apparently my "arrow" missed its mark of "engaging frankness" and instead hit, "is this woman having problems, or what?"

Questions have been posed as to a description of our room:
-12x16
-2 nice dressers
-1 closet (includes laundry basket)
-1 twin and 1 full sized bed, which we have pushed together to create a massive "place of repose"
-1 desk, which houses the computer monitor (which Loren hogs on a regular basis) and speakers. No earphones or headphones, and none needed
-one recliner
-1 large window with those blinds that open and close with a little bar thingy on the side
-1 bulletin board, placed on walls of creamy beige, with hints of ecru, buff and camel
-1 nice sized bathroom, with shower, and three shelves cabable of holding scandalous amounts of prescription medicines

As to anything we need? We are halfway done with our stay, by my figuring. So I don't think we want to make a lot of changes at this point. Things are going along nicely, from my perspective. As nice as they can when two people are undergoing the most traumatic situation yet, in 23 1/2 years of marriage. But we have settled into a decent routine, and believe it or not, I am loathe to go to any touble at this point. (Dec 20: or even "trouble," for that matter:-)

I have my husband with me, and we have the children safely at home. We communicate with the kids daily, in a multitude of ways. They have been taken care of so far, and I trust the Lord to take care of them in future days. This blog helps me keep family and friends informed of Loren's daily progress and health struggles, as well as providing a therapeutic outlet for me. No, I can't think of anything we need.
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Just so some of you won't be totally disgusted with my choices in leisure reading, I shall report that I found a slim volume of, "A First Spanish Grammar," on a book shelf. Yes, that's right, Ma is studying ol' español ! I've completed TWO WHOLE LESSONS. Why, I can already write, "Haga usted el favor de carrar la tiza." ("Please close the chalk") AND, "Hablo con la pen." ("I talk with the pen.")

Well, that's all for now. I need to keep practicing. I've suddenly acquired this dream of becoming a translator. Probably on the international political scene.......

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Saturdays Are For Shopping

I did not get much done this day, other than vow not to wash the sheets twice, but only once, this week. A clear violation of the Guest Manual Rulebook. What are they gonna do, sue me? I guess we'll just have to hope the world doesn't come to an end, with all this civil disobedience.

Speaking of the rapture, Loren and I were the only souls in the dining room at lunch, today. It was very quiet. TOO quiet. "Uh, Loren," I ventured. "You don't think we got left behind, do you?" "No, Becky, I don't think so," as he barely repressed rolling his eyes. (I just like to keep him on his toes:-)

We watched a movie on our clandestine DVD player, the computer. Then I had to get it back to the place that rents them, the grocery store. It was time to pick up some more grub, anyway. Then, displaying my amazing knowledge of the Rochester highway system, I zipped over to Wal-Mart, which is clear across town, in less than 10 minutes. Funny how one can only survive SO LONG without going to Wal-Mart. I really don't know how Laura Ingalls Wilder did it.

Anyway, with laser-like focus, I proceeded to all my appointed acquisition spots in the Superstore. (by the way, Blue Bunny chocolate almond fudge ice cream and Campbell's Italian wedding soup is really, REALLY good! But, um, not all together, of course)

I don't know what the weather is like where all of you are, but right here, it is very cold, with a biting wind. Still, I managed to safely stash my boughten articles in the back seat of the little Toyota. You know, the one that has to be pumped and started, over and over, until it finally STAYS started. (about 10 times) That gurgle of anti-freeze making its meandering way through the tubes is music to my ears. When I hear that, I know the car will stay running. Probably.

As I wound my way back through the busy streets and outrageously decorated homes, I turned on the radio to hear, "Prairie Home Companion." And who should Garrison introduce, but "The Boys of the Lough!" (pronounced "lock") The same outstanding group we had heard in the Charlton Atrium, almost two weeks ago. Just think, we heard a great group, in person, for free!
I had a feeling when I first heard them that they were "somebodies." I had even entertained the thought of taking my program up to have it autographed. But I knew Loren would never go for it.

So, here is the next best thing: I, having seen them in person, will now give out my autograph.
For a nominal, fee, of course. Naturally, relatives and friends will be offered reduced rates. Course, now, if you want 8x10 glossies, that will cost you extra. There is still time to purchase a Christmas gift autograph, for that hard-to-buy-for person. I would venture that this will blow those goofy chia pets right out of the water. Yes, I would venture that, except for the fact that I have never been one for self promotion.

But back to my exciting shopping adventure. I returned to The Big House, and rushed my packages into the hall. A task made more difficult by having to repunch the security code for each of the four trips. (doesn't it just make you wanna weep?) I hurried to deliver the frozen food "here," and the pantry food, "there," and the cold stuff to the fridge. I attempted cordiality with fellow guests, all the time realizing I was missing, "The Boys."

"Hi, Becky. Been shopping?"
" Hey, how 'ya doin'? No, I don't want a piece of cake! Look, I'm missing my show!"

I raced up the stairs (faster than that old elevator) burst into the room, and turned on Loren's radio/alarm clock. He was playing some classical stuff off the computer, but I turned mine up real loud and he got the hint.

Then followed the last, lovely hour of mirth and music. Ahhhhh. Very funny, and very nice. It takes so little to make one happy when you're in the slammer.

I did get a little annoyed with Loren, who chose the last piece, a Gaelic version of "Silent Night," to start rummaging through his box of computer parts.

Every once in a while, a wife has to put her foot down. So I told him, "You are being a pain. I want to listen." "Oh. Sorry."

Boy, if there's anything I can't stand, it's someone missing the trees for the forest.

(by the way, I just commented to Loren, "Whatever you read in here, I'm not mad at you. I'm just exploiting you." "Oh, fine. Do it to your heart's content." Don't worry, he was smiling. Sarcastically, but he was smiling)

I think that went well, don't you?

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New Med

After a long day at the clinic, we returned to the room to find the message light blinking on the phone. A new drug to add to all the others, named Pravachol. (I think that makes 10) After looking this up on the Web, we thought Loren's cholestrol might be too high. But a call from the coordinator informed us that it is also given to prevent cardiac allograft vasculopathy. Great. Another new thing to worry about. Loren remembers hearing something about this before transplant, but I drew a blank.

Apparently, the risk of coronary artery disease in a transplant patient is not the clot-type blockage, but an even narrowing of the artery walls. So, to prevent this from occurring, or at least reduce the risk, enter Pravachol, typically used for lowering cholestrol.

I put on my tennies and walked back to the pharmacy. It is only 3 blocks. A very cold 3 blocks, I might add. Still, a Ma has to get her exercise.

Everything was fairly routine, with today's rehab and other clinic appointments. We did see one new doctor, a consult from the CV Health Clinic. The exercise guys. She went through the different places where Loren is still experiencing pain. Had him walk, poked and prodded, and found out about his weak right leg. (Back when he was first given an angiogram, in 1995, he suffered a complication of excessive bleeding, which led to a hematoma, which became a blood clot that settled on his right femoral nerve, and basically destroyed it. He still has some numbness - she couldn't get it to "bounce" when she hit his knee with the rubber hammer - but he can use it) That leg never fully recovered, so they will be starting him on some physical therapy. We came for a check on the broken ribs and crushed vertabrae, but left with physical therapy for the leg! There was also talk of renting some machine to give pain therapy for his back. I'll be more specific when I can.
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Well, Ardith has arrived home! Just got it hot over the Instant Message "wires." Dad called earlier, and he and Mom are safely back in Indiana. I can sleep tonight! I won't tell you what horrible things I was imagining last evening in bed. Never read Steven King, after five. It's sorta like caffeine. Stays with you for a bit.

Now, if we could just get that crazy oven at home to work again.....

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One Home, Three to Go

"Now, CALL us when you get in!"
"Alright, " my dad chuckled, "we will."

Word has it that Sharon is safely home. *happy sigh* My mom and dad leave in the morning for Indiana. Kinda funny, Sharon comes FROM Indiana, and they go back TO Indiana.

Ardith is on her way to (or at) Tulsa, a short 5 hour drive to her Aunt Elizabeth's. She will be treated royally and then start off on the final 9 hour leg to Iowa tomorrow. I will breathe a little easier when all the parties are at their appointed destinations.

We had nothing on the itinerary today, so I walked down to St. Mary's Hospital for the Caregiver's Support Group meeting. I felt a little guilty, since I was the only one with a transplanted spouse. All the rest were women waiting for their husbands to get a new lease on life. There was also a married couple waiting on behalf of their 20 year old son. Ryan is already a cancer survivor from the age of 8, 9, and 10. The chemo he experienced back then weakened his heart. An episode with a virus did further damage, and now he and his parents wait and pray. He has deteriorated this week, and he has O positive blood. Rare blood means a longer wait. It is getting increasingly difficult not to get emotionally involved. All we can do is pray for these people as we learn about them.
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Tomorrow is another busy day of appointments, rehab, a quick lunch and more afternoon office visits. We are hoping that the record of 3 perfect biopsies will put us on the 2 week schedule. After two of those, it's down to one biopsy per month, which continues for the first year. Eventually, we will get to the point where we only have to come to Mayo every 3 months, then 6 months, then, (dare we hope?) once per year.

Happy Birthday greetings go out to number 3 son, Ethan, who turns 8 tomorrow. "Wish we could be there, Ethan-boy." *swallows lump* I owe you about 1000 or so hugs and kisses, which I promise to make up, believe me :-) I can hardly wait to hear how well you can read now. Hope you have stopped running from room to room and crashing into people. It's endearing, but dangerous.

Speaking of reading, that is one thing I can accomplish better here, than at home. Much as I miss the children, I have many quiet moments to lose in literature. The pickings, though, are somewhat limited. A lot of romance and mysteries. I've been passing up Danielle Steele (hard as that may be *choke*) and picking some of the authors I've heard of who have slightly higher reputations. I thought I'd actually found something of worth when I espied, "Much Ado About Nothing." But upon closer inspection, I realized someone had borrowed "Will's" famous title for some detective drivel. I did chance upon Hemingway's, "The Sun Also Rises, " and brought it back to the room. Back in junior high school, I attempted "The Old Man and the Sea," but cast it aside. However, I am determined to get one of Hemingway's books under my belt. Then I can at least slice it to ribbons with a clear conscience. I'll start on it as soon as I finish, "The Hope," by Herman Wouk.

I guess that's enough name dropping, for now.

Shalom

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Of Songs and Sonnets

Another zero rejection biopsy! You can't complain about that. We did not hear the results until this morning, though.

Life goes on. Another rehab session, with Loren feeling pretty decent throughout and afterward. No gold star was awarded. I guess the trainers don't want their victims peaking too soon.

We had a smidge of entertainment down in the "living room" this evening. A gentleman was playing the concertina. He wasn't a professional, but it was a change of pace, and a chance to get out of this room. It reminded me of sitting around with the kids on a Saturday night, watching Lawrence Welk. He played the usual numbers, "It's a Small World, " and "Beer Barrel Polka." He took some requests and folks sang along on many. One of the sisters came in to listen after he had been going awhile, and SHE requested "Beer Barrel Polka," so he played it again :-) Then he started into one with, "I'm not even going to tell you what it is....just sing along." Well, it turned out to be,"You Are My Sunshine." That's the song I used to sing to Trevor, all the time. I just about lost it. I was doing great until I heard that song.....

I need get my mind on something else.

There are a lot of people traveling in the next few days. I pray for everyone to have a safe trip, and wonderful times with their loved ones.

SONNET 91
Some glory in their birth, some in their skill,
Some in their wealth, some in their bodies' force,
Some in their garments, though new-fangled ill,
Some in their hawks and hounds, some in their horse;
And every humour hath his adjunct pleasure,
Wherein it finds a joy above the rest:
But these particulars are not my measure;
All these I better in one general best.
Thy love is better than high birth to me,
Richer than wealth, prouder than garments' cost,
Of more delight than hawks or horses be;
And having thee, of all men's pride I boast:
Wretched in this alone, that thou mayst take
All this away and me most wretched make. Shakespeare

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As the Sun Sinks O' de Mayo

Appointments are finished and evening exercise completed. It's as good a time as any to blog and annoy Loren with my bagpipe ensemble CD :-)

Kendra is busy IMing me concerning the requirements for school. When the girls get home from college, they have practically three weeks off. This is way too long a break for my "students," but I usually scale back to "half school." Next ensues a delineation of major and minor subjects, with careful allotment to each day. I think it will "all come out in the wash." (a phrase I learned from my organ instructor in college)

One thing I DO know, when Loren and I come home in February (Lord willing) we are going to celebrate! No school for at least an hour! Maybe longer, if I'm in a particularly good mood. (besides, you guys can always make it up, later)
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Now for the day's report.

This morning's biopsy went better, in that, the doctor was gentler. I don't think there will be the extreme discomfort in trying to sleep tonight. And, all the extra foam pads and pillows have helped. Still waiting for the report back on degree of rejection.

Loren actually walked all the way to the car afterward. (through an underground parking garage) I am thinking his wheelchair days are over, for good :-)

The bone density test showed approximately the same results as back in February. His lumbar spine is -2.1, and his femur neck is -1.9. A score of -2.5 would indicate osteoporosis. So, technically, Loren has osteopenia, not osteoporosis. Sorry that I unintentionally misled people by stating that Loren has the latter. (what can I say, I'm a layperson, fer cryin' out loud) The doctor told him to increase his calcium. Like the good little wifie I am, I ran right out and purchased Citracal. (what's good enough for Sean Hannity, is good enough for Loren, I always say) Can a major talk-show hosting job be far behind?

*kills time waiting for biopsy result*

And now, a chance for audience participation.

Loren is going to have to start wearing a hat. Not, today, not next week, but sometime when the weather starts to moderate. The drug, cycloporine, makes him more susceptible to sunburn. His flattop haircut increases the chance for a head burn. So, a hat will be necessary when venturing out of doors.

The question, of course, is what type of hat is suitable for a man of Loren's mild temperament, conservative leanings, and all-encompassing skepticism? Not to mention his disdain for "following the herd."

He has already ruled out a baseball cap and cowboy hat. I suggested one of those things fisherman wear with the hooks and lures for decoration. I'm not sure of Loren's exact reply, but I think it was a "no." (oh yeah, no bérets)

Here is where all of you come in: First of all, DON'T SEND US HATS!! But comments and suggestions would be welcome. Some things folks might want to keep in mind are: Loren has a beard, he wears glasses, and he enjoys reading computer magazines and science fiction. (I don't know if those last two items are relevent, but now you know from whom Ardith inherited her proclivities)

So send us your ideas, if you are so inclined. An award is promised for the most creative (and family friendly :-) proposal, just as soon as we pay off the medical debts.

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In Which We Meet Dr. Gene

Loren had another rehab session this morning, and came out of it as good or better than ever. In fact, his "exercise specialist" gave him a gold star on his chart. *gag* I think it's just as well I was not there. No need to get the stomach riled up before lunch. What this does say, is that Loren is getting stronger. Perhaps in small increments, but he is definitely getting stronger.

We didn't want to pay for parking for just a one hour segment, so I dumped Loren at the Gonda building, and drove around town and north of the city a while. Such a pity, now that I am finally beginning to enjoy driving, Loren will soon get his privileges back, and I'll probably never get to drive again. That's ok. He has at least 3 years to make up for. I'll admit I didn't always like being the only driver. A car is just a means of getting from "here" to "there." But when I actually drove back from Indiana by myself, after dropping Sharon off at college, I truly had fun. I think it had something to do with being in total control of the radio. That, and feeling free to stop for a double quarter-pounder. (I only did it once)

We had quite a long session with the genetic people this afternoon. To begin with, they had to reconstruct the whole family chart starting with Loren's grandparents. This would have been totally unnecessary if someone could have only found this wonderful chart that Nelda and her doctor had taken great pains to write up. We showed it to the cardiologists with many a, "This is incredible!" comment. Then, when we really needed it.....lost! Or misplaced in someone's records. We are hoping it will turn up in a file, somewhere.

When we met with the genetics doctor, he went into quite a bit of detail about chromosomes, genes, and translocation. My head is still spinning. I thought I was back in Dr. J's biology class, getting ready to flunk another exam. It was scarey. (it's been 28 years since college biology, and cells are dying off, every single day! Most of them, in my brain)

The upshot is, there are some studies going on at various places around the country, which may or may not give us any useful information. ARVD is still in fairly early stages of investigation, and while eight genes have been identified as being related to ARVD, there is only one specific test for one of those genes. (as I understand it)

To start the ball rolling, Loren will have some extra blood drawn at his next lab appointment, tomorrow. They will store some in the DNA bank, through cryopreservation, and have some analyzed for abnormalities to the gene structure. If something unusual turns up, siblings and offspring can be checked to see if the same abnormality appears.

Another big day tomorrow: heart biopsy, bloodwork, chest x-ray, a bone density test, and the usual visits with the coordinator and transplant cardiologist, to find out what all of this means.

I think that density test has something to do with how dumb your bones are, but I'm not sure....

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Communication: It's a Good Thing

We had an interesting experiment in interstate communication, today. We have a microphone at our computer, and Jason has one at his, so we tried to coordinate talking, back and forth. After a few flubs, we managed some fairly coherent conversation, for a bit. It helped to turn on the "mute" after speaking. We also discovered that talking "over" each other produced garbled and intermittent connections. So, Loren instituted the "over," sign-off.

"This is Ma Hoyt. Can you hear me? [over] "

*giggles and laughter* "We hear you, Mommy. [over] "

"So, how was church today? [over]"

"Pretty good. There was a new family there. They have 6 or 7 kids. [over]"

"That's just what the church needs. More kids! [over]" (It's close to 80 percent kids already. So it's "Boo-hoo," for blue country.) *smirk*

*laughter* "Oh, Mommy.....*sounds of coughing* [over] "

"Hey, are you guys getting over your colds, down there? [over] "

"Oh, we're doing pretty well, now. {Kendra} Say, can I watch LOTR when the older kids see it over break? [over] "

"kkkcccchhhht......You're breaking up, kkkccchht......."


Well, the sound didn't last too long, but we did get a few words and questions passed between us. I heard little Trevor in the background. He STILL doesn't talk. I got to speak with Nolan (5) who assured me he was being a very good boy. And I talked with Ethan (8) who claims he doesn't like his freckles. He just doesn't realize that's part of what makes him so special to me. Besides, I have freckles, and at this point in life, they give the illusion of youth.

(A snippet of the above conversation actually took place in a family chat today. But the integrity of the inter-familial communication has not been compromised)
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I have started a little project intended for the kids at home. Since anyone under 17 cannot come into the Gift of Life House (unless you're in a singing group, and no, I'm not bitter), I am taking pictures of all the different areas of interest, both here and at the hospital and clinic. I'll be placing these photos in a little album, with appropriate explanations, of course.

Helping me in this endeavor, is "Lurkey." Lurkey is a little beanie baby turkey that we received around Thanksgiving. Someone who works for the company had a relative that was transplanted, and now they send these turkeys to patients each year. The turkey's given name is "Tommy," but somehow, Lurkey the Turkey just had a better ring to it. Sorta down-home, and sneaky, at the same time.

So kids, I don't know if your ol' ma will have it finished by Christmas, but it should be completed by New Year's.

In the meantime, take good care of Grandma and Grandpa, and don't give your sisters a hard time when they get back from college next week.

This is Ma Hoyt, over and out.

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No Day is Dull

I managed to get all the laundry done this morning. No mean feat, with nearly 100 residents, only three washers, and one of them broken. I felt pretty bad pushing all those chemo people aside....I'm kidding.

In that basement laundry room, I met an interesting woman, named C. She had spent most of her childhood in the hospital. Born with defective kidneys, the condition was not discovered until she was 3 years old. Shortly after C. was born, her mother contracted polio, and had to be hospitalized. The little girl cried a lot, but everyone just thought she missed her mother. What she was missing were healthy kidneys. By the time her condition was discovered, not much was left of her kidneys. She was tried out on an experimental gadget back in the 50's, a kidney dialysis machine. She was told all sorts of things, including that she would never have children. She has two, and some grandkids to boot! She is currently existing on 1/4 of one kidney. "I didn't know you could DO that! " I asked incredulously. "Oh, yes," she replied. "You only need an eighth."

Now, lest you think SHE is waiting for a kidney, she is actually the caregiver for her husband, who is being treated for cancer.

I will never cease to be astounded at the backgrounds and histories of folks who end up here. There are many varied and tortured paths to this place. People from all parts of the country, rich and poor, are here, "doing time." And the support they give to one another is just amazing. You don't even have to know someone's name. It is downright humbling.

I am thankful to be here.

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Absurdities

OK. I have figured out a way to see the children. We shall simply smuggle them in, disguised as Christmas carolers.

A group of young, singing ladies came in this evening, and, while I didn't card anyone, I have reason to believe several did not meet the 17 year age requirement. Now, I don't mean to be picayunish, but I also saw three young boys, whose ages I estimate between 5 and 11, accompanying their father. At least, I think it was their father. Who knows? It could have been the Mafia, with young urchins pulled off the street as a "front." (ever since I finished reading John Grisham's "The Firm," I've become a lit-tle bit suspicious.....)

When another "guest" inquired about the young children to the passing facilities manager, Sister J. replied, "They won't kill anybody." (see? it's already reached the levels of upper management)
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Loren and I saw a most amusing DVD this afternoon, "O Brother, Where Art Thou?" We watched it on the computer, in our room. TV's are not allowed in the individual rooms, but there is nothing in the "Guest Manual" concerning DVD's being played on computers:-) If it does come up, I will whip out a few Polaroids of those underage singers. I - don't - think there will be any problems.

Loren's cyclosporine levels were low from today's blood draw, so that med has been raised back up a bit. We shalll have to watch the potassium levels of food more closely again, since the two interact. Loren walked to every one of his clinic appointments today. I didn't even have to get a wheel chair for the trip over to Rehab. So, that is another wee milestone.

Speaking of progress, did I mention that I tightened my belt a notch? And that is not all, oh no. I have noticed that one of my slippers, (the right one) is definitely looser than it had been previously. This is not simply a fluke, as I have observed this over a matter of 8 or 9 days. I didn't want to burst out prematurely with the news, but, I think we can safely say now, without a shadow of a doubt, that I have lost some weight in my right podiatrial area.

Naturally, I do not wish to lose what ground I've gained. (metaphorically speaking) I'm sure we are all too familiar with those tragic tales. Those stories of how some poor soul sweated off ankle weight, only to gain it all back, plus more, ending up with an articulatio talocruralis of gargantuan proportions. No, no, this will not happen to me! (mainly, 'cause I didn't even know what an articulatio talocruralis WAS until I looked up "ankle" :-)

Well, 'tis all part of the daily struggle. To each of us is given the task to find meaning out of life's routine monotonies. To some of you, it may be striving for the best possible grade, fulfilling the factory quota, or clearing the final bugs from a computer program.

As for me, I shall resume my ankle flexes......up, down, up, down, up, down....

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From a May 0

The clinic visits of the day, nay WEEK, are done. HOORAY! We are free to live as we please within the confines of The Big House and its rules.

Time for a little blogging and jigging, with the help of "Highland Christmas." ( I LOVE this CD :-)

After the routine lab draw (yes, he still has blood) and routine chest x-ray (no newly discovered broken bones) we saw Loren's transplant coordinator and the nurse practioner. (If you have appointments in the pm, you see a doc, in the am, the very knowledgable nurse practioner)

Loren had a few dizzy spells this morning, so he has been encouraged to drink more. I am assuming this means non-alcoholic beverages. Also, more salt. These are the words dreams are made of. For heart patients, anyway.

After this came Loren's first NebuPent treatment outside the hospital. This is to prevent a rare form of pneumonia, and can be used for patients that do not tolerate Bactrim. Loren had an allergic reaction to Bactrim in the hospital, and, by the way, it only took me 10 or 12 tries to find a link that didn't readily associate this drug with treatment for AIDS.

Loren had to go into a little room and breath the metallic tasting stuff through a hose that goes into the mouth. After the 45 minute treatment, the nurse gave Loren an orange lollipop to take away the bad taste. Those transplant perks. They just keep a comin'.

What did I do? I became quite absorbed in Stephen King's, "From a Buick 8."

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Slow Day

Ears cleaned.

Walk taken.

DVD's rented.

Migraine attacks.

Pills swallowed.

Opera commenced.

Recliner requisitioned.

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Please Pray for ......

....Ardith's computer. It has died. Naturally, if I were closer, I would whip right down Texas-way and start to work on it. My computer skills (or lack, thereof) are legendary. But, there are enough nerds down there that someone can probably diagnose it, or at least attempt CPR. Ardith is a nerd, herself. It's something they are quite proud of in those technical schools. She may just bring her computer home where she is already expected to set up a little computer hospital clinic over Christmas break. The kids are already standing in line for her services. There is even talk of scrounging up enough spare parts to set up two-year-old Trevor with his own computer. Why not? He is already hogging everyone else's.

Only one item on the agenda for tomorrow: Loren's ears. I gotta get up at 6:30 in the morning so he can have a (de)wax job done. I asked the doc if they could do my legs, but he said, "No dice. It's not that kind of wax job!" (I like to keep these doctors hoppin' :-) By the time I find a parking place, he could be done. Oh well, what else have I got to do?
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Let me highly recommend, "Highland Christmas," by The McCallans. It was one of those cheap CD's I found in the Christmas section at Wal-Mart. It's a bagpipe-led ensemble that is the first to rival my, "Christmas With Pavarotti & Carreras." The only thing missing is Plàcido Domingo. (I got that "à" in just six tries, by the way. I'm getting better at my "alt" guessing game)

I'm having this vision of the ideal musical ensemble..... It involves Pavarotti playing the bagpipes, Carreras on the harp, and ol' Plàcido, singing. (he has the best voice of the Three Tenors, in my humble estimation) I think it could work.

Enough of idle dreams. It is time for repose.

I shall leave you with this ancient Irish blessing:

"May the road rise to meet you,
May the wind be ever at your back,
And may the wax, be ever, on the wane."

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Stuff Just Keeps Happenin'

When I mentioned today was a "free day," I had forgotten Loren had a rehab session today. It went OK, though they always push him fairly hard.

The real hassle was trying to sleep, last night. That biopsy ordeal still had him pretty sore, and sleep was illusive. (or is that allusive? :-) {*grins* elusive is the correct term}We were messing around with all kinds of combinations, and he finally ended up in the recliner for a few hours, and then back to the bed, heavily padded with both comforters bunched underneath him.

After Rehab, this morning, we headed out Wal-Mart way, and while he sat in the car, I stocked up on a body pillow, and two foam mattress pads. We are going to cushion those old bones, or my name isn't Ma Hoyt! I succumbed to two more Christmas CD's, Rosemary Clooney, and "Highland Christmas." (bagpipes :-) Course, I can't try them out until Loren finishes listening to Sean Hannity.

Shopping took so long, that we realized we would not get back to The Big House before they closed the kitchen for 2:00 cleaning. We were literally FORCED to go to Arby's for lunch. Just me and the hubby, eating a cozy lunch in an old Toyota with a mismatched hood. Talk about your ambiance! I enjoyed myself. It gave me the opportunity to initiate Loren into the mixing of my special sauce for curly fries. Two parts ketchup, and one part horsey sauce. Nothing better!

We have been keeping the cell phones hot this afternoon. Kendra had her PLAN test this morning, (precursor to the ACT) and I wanted to hear about that. Consultations ensued as to the advisability of going to prayer meeting this evening. Most fevers are gone, or nearly so, but it was decided to stay home one more time. The kids have to be in good health tomorrow when they go for their flu shots! Yes, I got them approved, since their Dad received a heart transplant. The local clinic just received a batch and I want to get in on the "goods." They will even save two for Ardith and Sharon, when they get back for Christmas. (don't worry, it won't be NEARLY as bad as getting your wisdom teeth out)

More phone calls, this time explaining that "Moby Dick," the 15 passenger van, was dead. Jason and Grandpa jumped the old boat and got it going again. My, but those older kids are gaining a lot of life experience.

I think I'll stop, now, before something else breaks down. Possibly me.

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Another Day, Another Couple Cracked Ribs

Well, the GOOD news is that the biopsy report was another perfect ZERO REJECTION :-)

The routine x-ray revealed two cracked ribs on the upper left side. Could have happened when they cut apart the sternum and separated the rib cages. (hope no one is eating) The osteoporosis does not help. Loren will have to be monitored for this longterm, since some of the new meds cause bone loss. ANYWAY, that would explain some of the pain Loren has felt. "No matter what position I'm in, something hurts."

We saw the wonderful Doctor C., this afternoon. He heard about Loren's rough biopsy experience and will put in the notes to have the expert doc do it next time, and not a trainee. Loren had four hands pressing on him this morning and it was not a fun time. These techs are used to big, heavy guys, with lots of flesh. Loren is not your average overweight fellow with heart disease. They pressed down with the ultrasound wand much harder than necessary. (ultrasound helps them guide the wire into the correct position in the heart) From the sound of it, Dr. C. was going to straighten them out :-)

An amusing little offshoot of the exam was Loren's request to have his ears checked. He has had them clogged before and felt they were plugged up again. He has been talking so low that I've had to ask him to repeat himself, SEVERAL times. We have a longstanding "discussion" as to whether I am losing my hearing.

So, the doc peeks in the first ear, "Totally blocked." He peeks in the second ear, "Not as bad, but still needs work. We are going to make an appointment to have your ears flushed!"
Not missing a beat, Loren says, "Now check Becky."
*startled* "Whaaaa...?"
"Sure, no problem." He checks my first ear, "Very good." Checks second ear,"Clean as a whistle."

*self-satisfied smirk*
"Hah! Vindication!"
*swat to Loren's knee*
"So your ears aren't clogged. That proves you're going deaf."

*sigh* You just can't get through to some people.

The doctor said Loren's voice had sounded booming to his own ears, because of being plugged. That is why he was speaking more softly. Now, if I can just get the kids to stop mumbling....

Time for bed. We have just spent 10 minutes carefully adjusting pillows and rolled up blankets under knees, shoulders and head to achieve maximum comfort and minimum pain. No appointments tomorrow, which means no annoying alarm clocks. The problem is: how do you "sleep in," when you can't even get to sleep?

I think I shall lose myself in "Gorky Park."

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Biopsy

Another early morning heart biopsy is over and done with. We'll get the results this evening, and I'll post it when I know it. Hoping for no rejection! Though, it is more common to have some from this point on, since the immunosuppresant drugs are being tapered. The docs have to find the right balance for minimum or no rejection, and minimum or no side effects from the meds.

This bioposy was more than uncomfortable for Loren. He had knifing pains in his right shoulder. Not sure what THAT was, but we assume they know what they are doing. He could opt for anesthetic, but that would entail an extra hour's wait after the procedure. It takes long enough already. Almost 2 1/2 hours from check-in to finish. The standard chest x-ray of the day was done after the heart biopsy, since there is the small but real risk of collapsing a lung.

This morning there were four of us "transplant wives" waiting in the biopsy lounge. We had a good time talking about health backgrounds, experiences, food restrictions and such. (I hear you yawning...) I don't even know the one lady's name. But we are all of like mind, "How on EARTH did we end up here?!" combined with practiced stoicism. One of the men is even younger than Loren, only 45. A mere babe.

Loren has gained a little more weight, a total increase of 4 and a half pounds. ("Here, Loren, have another piece of candy. There's my good boy....") And yours truly, "Ma," has lost a little. I have derived my conclusions from both conjecture and empirical evidence. I REFUSE to use Loren's digital scale, since it registers 5-7 pounds over my old friend back home, "Springy, the bathroom scale." Springy and I go way back, to the day I first discovered my favorite (effortless) weight loss technique, changing the calibration dial. Empirically speaking, I can now fit into one of the "too small" items I brought along. *grins* The fact that I had it on a stretching rack for two weeks, bears little significance, to anything.

We are back at the house, for a few hours, in between appointments. Time for Rush and a little relaxation.

(extra credit to those that pick out all the clichés)

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Four Weeks Down, Eight More to Go

Every once in a while, something occurs, out of the blue, that just makes one glad to be alive.

Loren had finished a tough hour of rehab, and we were running a few errands in the bowels of the Mayo Clinic buildings. As we passed through Lips Atrium (the place where that guy played wonderfully on the piano) there were crowds of people assembled for a concert. We had one short errand, yet, but as the elevator doors opened, I recognized the strains of....... "Celtic music! Would I love to hear that!"

As we returned to the atrium, they were still playing, and against my husbands perceived wishes (I am slightly telepathic, concerning him) I wheeled him up to the last open space by a railing on the balcony. There was a program lying on the floor. "Boys of the Lough," it read. Ahhhhh. I thought I had died and gone to heaven. To actually hear a real concert, by real people, of real heritage. We were able to enjoy 30 minutes of the 50 minute concert. I don't know which was more enjoyable, the music, or the lilt of their accent.

I think Loren was a little nervous about being around so many people. A man somewhat close to him DID sneeze, but fortunately, he soon left. Besides, I figured we were on the fringes, and fairly safe.

For most of the time, I was positioned directly across (and one level up) from the man who played the mandolin and concertina. I miss my mandolin :-( That's ok. I figure I still have about 40 more years to learn to play. And some day, when all of this is over, and we can safely go out in crowds again, we are going to some concerts! Yesiree bob, we are going to some CONCERTS!
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Loren is still bothered by his aching back. That compression fracture is just enough of a nag to make sleep hard, at times. But, he has gained another 1 1/2 pounds, and been taken off the last of the Lasix. So, that is good news. And, he didn't seem to suffer any adverse effects from that long IV infusion, yesterday. Tomorrow is another heart biopsy, and we are hoping and praying for a second ZERO rejection score.

I wonder what it is like to go through the day without thinking about appointments, and meds, and seeing nothing but sick or medical people all day long?

If all goes well, we should find out in about eight weeks. Then we'll only have to live in the medical world once a month, instead of every day.

Until then, I think I'll mosey on over to Half.com and check out their Irish Repetitive Music.

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Hmmmmmmm

Who said Sunday was a day of rest?

At breakfast we received a called from Kendra, citing three victims of an unknown malady. Three sore throats, two fevers, one croupy cough, ("and a partridge in a pear tree.") After a bit of back and forth on the cell phones, it was determined that all would stay home from church today. If three were coming down, the rest would soon follow. "Stay home, and you and Grandpa can go into town and use the coin dryers" (she had several loads, saved up)

(By the way, Pastor John, none of the family will be in church today :-) Hope we didn't mess up the Christmas Program practice too badly, Sarah. (Ethan said it's ok if you give his part of Rudolph the Rednosed Reindeer to one of the other children)

Loren was scheduled for his first IV infusion of the Cyto-Gam this morning at 11:30. I distinctly remember inquiring of a nurse just how long this would take. "Fifty minutes," was the reply.

It took TWO and a HALF HOURS! Good thing I didn't have to go to the little girl's room.

The nurse guided us down a hall with rooms on each side. In each room was a hospital bed with IV pole beside. "Hmmmm," I am thinking. "I thought this was a simple thing......"

We were taken to Loren's assigned room, complete with TV. "Hmmmm," I thought. Luckily, I had the amazing foresight to bring along two bottles of water and a bag of Dove's. (I can give them up anytime, really)

After some reviewing of history, chart, etc. a nurse came in to find an IV site on Loren. He has quite a collection of poke marks on his right arm, since his left one has uncooperative veins. She put a tourniquet on his right arm to test the veins. "Hmmmmmmm." She ended up putting it in his right hand.

After all that, I decided to get comfy and made Loren shift over so I could crawl in, complete with water bottles and chocolate. After finding nothing exciting on Fox News, we settled on the Hallmark station, where a nice, maudlin Christmas movie was just commencing. John Denver. "Well, we won't be seeing the end of it, anyway." The nurse laughed. "You'll be here a good two hours, by my guess." Hmmmmmmm.

So we settled in for the movie, drug dripping happily, chocolate stashed between us. For those of you who have never seen a John Denver movie, ...........where was I?

The cell phone rang again, with Kendra reporting that Carolyn not only had a fever of 102.6, but had chills, backache, and it hurt to go to the bathroom. Sounded like a recurrence of that bladder infection. I made a mental note of calling for an appointment for her on Monday. But after consulting with the nurse at hand, I called back and said, "You'd better get Grandpa and take her into the ER and have it checked out. Leave within the hour."

*wait, wait, wait.(John Denver saves Jake's farm, the day, and gets the girl)*

*finish IV, get back, eat lunch at 3:00, wait some more*

But the report was negative, no bacterial infection. The doctor thought it was a virus. So, THAT is a relief. I guess Kendra is getting lots of experience in various matters of health and home.

The Moody radio station is playing the Messiah. Hmmmm. Sounds like a student production to me. *turns down volume while making mental note to stop being so discriminating*

*SNEEZES* (gasp) *sprays copious amounts of disinfectant aerosol*

So, how was your Sunday?

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A M.O.C.K. Note of Thanks

Being a charter member of M.O.C.K. (Mothers of College Kids) , it is my incumbent duty, not to mention HONOR, to offer humble thanks to a really great crew down southaway.

Friends of Ardith, not only pitched in to buy her plane fare home for Thanksgiving, BUT, they also sent along a Wal-Mart gift card for Loren and myself.

THANK YOU, (guys and gals) for sending Ardith home over Thanksgiving. It is the first time she was home for that holiday since she went off to that bastion of higher learning, Letourneau University. I know college-type persons are usually strapped for cash, so, believe me, we are humbled by your generosity. I think it was important for Ardith to see her dad after the transplant. (he looks pretty much the same, and is just as tactless as ever) She DID hog the van and not let Sharon drive up to, OR back from Rochester, but, that is another subject.

Would you like to know what I used the Wal-Mart gift card for? Well, tempting as it was to blow the whole wad on Dove's Dark Chocolates, I resisted that snare, and used the funds for a few necessities, such as vitamins, cold-eeze lozenges, and sanitizing lotion. But, I also succumbed to a little Christmas whimsy, and purchased a silk poinsettia and small manger scene to decorate our room. While lingering in the decorations department, I chanced upon a bin of discount Christmas CD's. I was momentarily tempted by Willie Nelson, but ultimately decided upon a 3 CD collection of soothing instrumentals at rock bottom prices. Loren was tremendously relieved when told how close he had come to being stuck with the "Nasal Fog."

And so, I thank you all, for giving our little Rochester abode a touch of Christmas cheer.

One of these days, we will be down for Ardith's graduation, and I am SO looking forward to meeting all of you in person.

Until then, rest in the knowledge that you have made an old lady and her man very happy.

God bless you, one and all.

("mamas, don't let your babies grow up, to be liberals......")

*walks off into sunset*

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If it's Friday.....

...it's another major appliance biting the dust.

Kendra called yesterday with some rather graphic descriptions of the oven. Sparks, flames and smoke were all mentioned. Reports have it that Pastor John has already been out, checked online, and ordered a replacement part.

This evening, it appears that the dryer is not...uh....drying. It goes and blows but there is no heat. Loren has put in a repair order online (is this a great world, or what!) and someone should be there by Thursday. Hopefully something simple, like a sensor.That dryer had SOME NERVE conking out just bef0re the weekend. The kids will prevail upon neighbors, and perhaps our church, until it is fixed. (Or, you could just forego washing and changing clothes. It's up to you guys. After all, your mom's not there, so who's gonna know? :-)
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And now, for a late breaking news bulletin on the open house with free flowing wine and champagne.....

I ventured down the back stairway to the exercise room in the basement. Not even an evening soiree could keep me from my appointed rounds on the treadmill. I heard soft, cultured voices as I passed the ground floor, and thought I caught a glimpse of someone's high heels. (is it just me, or does evening soiree sound a tad redundant?)

*exercised diligently*

As I crept back up the stairway, there was a distinctly fishy odor permeating the atmosphere. Some of those crustaceans had lost more than just their peel. I retired to #52, unseen by the glitterazti. Loren and I bided our time in the room, quietly reading, perusing the web, and receiving appliance damage reports.

When it seemed safe, we tip-toed down to the dining room and kitchen, where I, with incredible, yet humble foresight, had supper awaiting in a crockpot. Oh, there were a few "suits" hanging around. Maybe they hoped for a glam shot with one of the residents. (No one asked us. Probably just shy) I, on the other hand, was hoping for a few tasty morsels. Some of the leftover hor d'oeuvres, perhaps? But no! They were cleaned up. Wrapped up. Put away. Not even one of those weird little thingamajiggys with bacon 'round it was left. *sniff*

It's ok. I still have my husband, my chocolate, and my 13-books-I've-culled-from-various-shelves.

At least I can communicate with the outside world. Even if it's hardly ever reciprocated....... .........It's alright........ Really.

*sniff*

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Big Doin's

Things are all abuzz, here at the "Big House." Tonight is the 20th anniversary open house and people are scurrying around with a multitude of preparations. I heard tell of hor d'oeuvres being prepared last night. Something of a shrimpy nature, I believe. At this very moment, the conservative Mennonite girls who help maintain this home are downstairs in their plain dresses and black coverings, helping to arrange the napkins and champagne and wine glasses on the serving table. (You'd have to grow up Mennonite to truly appreciate the irony in this :-)

I, myself, am presently downing a diet cherry coke, the stongest beverage I imbibe. I know how I am with chocolate, so ain't no way ahma gonna touch somethin' stronger. I could wind up in an alley somewhere, in a tattered hand-me-down coat, my cracked and bleeding fingers clutching the neck of a bottle wrapped in wrinkled brown paper. Oh wait! That's me NOW. (minus the bottle) Excessive hand sanitizer will do that, to a person. Alright, I don't hang around alleys, either.

I am going to slip down before the festivities and take a few pictures with my hi-tech disposable camera. The table does look pretty. And, since most of the children cannot visit us, here, I want to take some pictures of all the different areas and fix them up in a little scrap book. With appropriate and amusing headings, of course.

Though the residents are invited to tonight's party, Loren and I will "lay low" during the actual bash. We don't eat supper until late, anyway. I'll just peek around the corner, and maybe I can catch a glimpse of some fur, or, even a tiara. You know, Barbara Bush used to be on the board of Mayo Clinic, so, it is not outside the realm of possibility that someone famous or notorious could be present. (like Dan Rather) I'll let you know, later.
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We were able to schedule a haircut for Loren today, in between his various appointments. There is a place on the subway level, probably located under one of the streets. Very easy to wheel to, and recommended by a woman here at the "Big House." The man who cut Loren's hair was like someone out of the Andy Griffith show. A nice, older gentleman, who "used to cut flattops all day long" forty years ago. Finally! Someone able to give Loren the exact rounded flattop he has wanted. It was a pleasure to watch him work and a priviledge to give him a tip. There are all kinds of artists in this world, and I believe we saw one of them in action this morning.

Loren's second rehab session went fine, though I was not encouraged to go observe. I sat out by the windows and read my first John Grisham novel. Later it dawned on me that while my husband was valiantly trying to rebuild atrophied muscles, here I was, a perfectly healthy person, sitting and vegetating with a book. I have vowed to get up and walk at each waiting room. Hopefully, Loren will not be as exhausted "the day after," as he was from the first session.

My lunch consisted of three kinds of veggies. Aren't I being good? Plus, a chocolate chip nut cookie. After all, there's no sense in taking this healthy eating habit to extremes. It was then we received a call that Loren's company has deemed him worthy of extension of his disablity status until January. We were sorta hopin' they might see things that way. *rolls eyes* Though, it might have been fun to hit the streets of Rochester, looking for a job in a wheelchair.

We did find out a little more about the donor heart. The person it came from tested postive for Epstein Barr Virus, (most people do) and Loren is negative. So, starting this Sunday, he will have to have regular IV infusions of the anti-viral drug, Cyto Gam. It will occur on day 28 (from transplant) day 42, 56, and then on a monthly basis, for about a year. I am wondering if there is anything ELSE we will discover. (OK, now that I look it up, I remember being told during the initial week of tests, back in Feb. that they found Loren had never had mono, and that was unusual. Guess he was saving himself for me :-)

Well, must go down and snap a few pics. Fame waits for no man.

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Stem Cells

I found out some interesting information today. Of the 45-50 transplant patients here at Gift of Life, only 3 or 4 of them are organ transplants. The vast majority here are being treated with bone marrow transplant or stem cell transplant.

When the organ transplantees arrive at the house, they are pretty low, in regards to how they feel physically. From then on, they gradually get better and stonger, with a few bobbles along the way. But the leukemia patients come feeling relatively well, but then plunge into a terrible time, often fighting for their very life.

And, speaking of life-giving therapies, the evils of stem cell research are often railed against. But it would behoove us to differentiate between embryonic stem cell research, (which many of us would abhor) adult stem cell research, and umbilical stem cell research. (may be others, too)

There ARE legitimate and moral types of stem cell therapies.

I've been troubled before hearing stem cell therapies/research all lumped together and denigrated en masse. And seeing all these suffering folk here, reminded me of that fact. I figured this was as good a time as any to set the record straight, from my limited perspective.

*climbs down from soapbox*

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The House Rules

I thought you might be interested in some of the "House Rules," here at Gift of Life. Or, as we in the "clink" refer to them,

THE GAZILLION COMMANDMENTS

1) Please ensure that your hands are CLEAN AT ALL TIMES! Bottles of disinfectant hand soap are available at each sink in the House. Hands must be washed for a minimum of 20-30 seconds in order to rid them of germs. (Singing "Happy Birthday" to yourself is an easy way to time this.)

2) GUEST UNDER AGE 17 ARE NOT ALLOWED TO ENTER THE HOUSE! (that omits 8 of our 10 children)

3) Shuttle service is provided, Mon through........ Please thank the driver (we've been using our own vehicle, so far, which lets me off the hook of being a thankless wretch)

4) Please observe the posted parking signs
-in inclement weather, leave your car keys with us if you go to a hospital or Mayo Clinic via cab or shuttle. In order to clear the parking lot of snow or ice, we may need to move all vehicles.

GUEST ROOMS
5) We ask that you keep your room clean and tidy at all times:

6) Make the bed daily

7) Please do not lie on the bedspread. Fold the spread down if you wish to lie on top of the bed. (I sincerely hope I am not breaking rule 6, by adhering to rule 7)

8) Keep the bathroom clean

9) Dust and vacuum the room weekly (dust? no dust particle in it's right mind would dare alight)

10) Do not staple, glue or paste anything on the mirrors, walls, windows or furniture. Use the bulletin board

11) Do not pour medicine while sitting on the bed (*wonders if allowed to sit on bedspread*)

12) Keep medicine and toiletries in the bathroom, not on the oak furniture

13) Televisions are not allowed in guest rooms

14) NO FOOD IS ALLOWED IN THE GUEST ROOMS! Beverages are allowed. (I confess to stretching this one a bit, since I do keep a bag of Dove's Chocolates stashed in a draw. And once, when Loren couldn't finish his ice cream, we put it in a cup and he carried it back to the room, figuring it was in the process of becoming a beverage :-)

KITCHENS/EATING ARRANGEMENTS
15) Meal preparation is allowed only in the kitchens

16) Eating and snacking are not allowed in the kitchens, common areas, and guest rooms

17) All eating must be done in the dining rooms or on the patio (this has put a severe crimp in my knoshing. could be a blessing in disguise)

18) Each guestroom is assigned a refrigerator shelf, cupboard space and freezer space. (have had to throw away the equivalent of a whole loaf of bread, since it molded in the pantry. freezer space is miniscule)

19) Food on the shelves marked "House" is available for your use.

20) "Suspicious-looking" food on the House shelves will be thrown out. (I'm not sure what constitutes "suspicious-looking" food, though, I have seen some potatoes with shifty eyes)

21) All dishes, glasses, and silverware should be washed thoroughly with hot, soapy water then put into the racks for sterilizing

22) All areas of the kitchen that you use must be cleaned using our disinfectant. This includes the dining tables, and chair arms.

23) Our kitchens are closed for cleaning from 2:00-3:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday. During that time, NO ONE may enter the kitchens for any reason

GARBAGE
24) Please use the recycling bins located in each kitchen!

25) Make note of your turn to take out the kitchen trash

26) Please empty your room's trash at least once a week!

"OTHER"
27) Bedding and towels must be washed twice, weekly. Do not wash colored towels in bleach!

28) To keep the guest rooms as clean as possible, visitors are not allowed in the guest rooms (however, maintenance can come and go, since we returned from a clinic day to find a rollaway bed had been delivered, to the wrong room. Thank goodness I had remembered to make the bed, or I could have been busted)

29) The security code for the main entrance must be kept confidential, even after you leave the House. (I think I can remember not to divulge this, so long as nobody tortures me)

30) As you enter the House, do not allow others to enter behind you and do not open the door for anyone unknown to you! (people have done this for me, a lot)

31) If you or your caregiver contracts a cold or other illness while staying at the House, please go to the Urgent Care Center.....And tell us about your illness and visit to the Care Center. A mask must be worn if you contract a cold, cough or sore throat. We may ask you to leave the House, if necessary. (this is why I take gobs of vitamins, slurp Cold-eeze lozenges, and take a Tylenol pm if I am still awake a couple hours after bedtime)

32) Live flowers and plants are not allowed due to the immune-suppressed state of our patients. Bacteria can be carried easily in soil and water. Silk floral and balloon arrangements are nice alternatives. (now THIS was interesting, since I have always loved a poinsettia at Christmas time. But I went to Wal-Mart and dutifully purchased a silk rendition, which cost MORE than the real thing. I was bringing all my groceries inside, which is a pain with the security panel, since it sometimes takes 8 or 10 tries to get it to open. I was sorely missing my little "slaves" from home, who always carry in the sacks. So, tired, but grateful to be back from shopping, I walked in on my third trip with my cheery poinsettia. The sister at the desk was interviewing potential "guests" and without missing a breath broke in, "Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa! Where are you goin' with that plant?!" *cowering* "It's silk, " I managed to croak out, in fear and trembling. "Do you want to see it?" "No, I'll take your word for it." ) *resumes breathing *

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Well, that's most of them, anyway. *heaves tremendous sigh* I think I need a nap. That way I won't be breaking any rules. Just as long as I remember to pull back the spread.....

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