Hmmmm...I have been thinking about Apple Pie. It is the only pie I really know how to make. Well, I can make a pumpkin pie with rice milk. Ick. My father taught me how to make apple pies. Using the old Betty Crocker cookbook. there were a few rules he told me I MUST abide by to have the perfect pie. The #1 rule is : Only use Granny Smith apples. They stay firm and are a little tart. #2...Do not use store bought crusts. That is really the most tempting part, buying those blasted crusts. But he is right, the store bought ones have a taste to them that will ruin your whole pie. SO this Saturday I am suppose to bake pumpikin pies made with rice milk for Ashley, so I just might have to bake an apple pie for myself!
Grandpa's Apple Pie
Grandpa Mallon says "Only use Granny Smiths!"
Ingredients
Pastry for 9" 2 crust pie
3/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup flour
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
dash of salt
6 Granny Smith apples, peeled, pared, and sliced
Instructions
Heat oven to 425 degrees. In a large bowl combine sugar, flour, cinnamon, and salt. Mix in apples. Let sit while you prepare your pastry. This is important because the juice from the apples will dissolve your sugar.
Turn into a pastry lined pan, then dot with butter. Top with crust, seal and flute. Add slits, sprinkle with sugar. Cover edges of crust with foil and bake 45 minutes. (Remove foil last 10 minutes to brown edges).
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Monday, July 20, 2009
Scriptures
More scriptures to cling to:
I took my troubles to the Lord; I cried out to him, and he answered my prayer.
~ Psalm 120:1, NLT
Choose a good reputation over great riches; being held in high esteem is better than silver or gold.
~ Proverbs 22:1, NLT
A spiritual gift is given to each of us so we can help each other.
~ 1 Corinthians 12:7, NLT
...Only in returning to me and resting in me will you be saved. In quietness and confidence is your strength.
~ Isaiah 30:15, NLT
He will cover you with his feathers. He will shelter you with his wings. His faithful promises are your armor and protection.
~ Psalm 91:4, NLT
God’s law was given so that all people could see how sinful they were. But as people sinned more and more, God’s wonderful grace became more abundant.
~ Romans 5:20, NLT
For the kind of sorrow God wants us to experience leads us away from sin and results in salvation.
~ 2 Corinthians 7:10, NLT
Live in harmony with each other. Don’t be too proud to enjoy the company of ordinary people. And don’t think you know it all!
~ Romans 12:16, NLT
So don’t be afraid; you are more valuable to God than a whole flock of sparrows.
~ Matthew 10:31, NLT
God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort.
~ 2 Corinthians 1:3, NLT
They must not slander anyone and must avoid quarreling. Instead, they should be gentle and show true humility to everyone.
~ Titus 3:2, NLT
Charm is deceptive, and beauty does not last; but a woman who fears the Lord will be greatly praised.
~ Proverbs 31:30, NLT
I no longer count on my own righteousness through obeying the law; rather, I become righteous through faith in Christ.
~ Philippians 3:9, NLT
Let me hear of your unfailing love in the morning, for I am trusting you. Show me where to walk, for I have come to you in prayer.
~ Psalm 143:8, NLT
Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each day.
~ Lamentations 3:23, NLT
I refresh the humble and give new courage to those with repentant hearts.
~ Isaiah 57:15, NLT
I took my troubles to the Lord; I cried out to him, and he answered my prayer.
~ Psalm 120:1, NLT
Choose a good reputation over great riches; being held in high esteem is better than silver or gold.
~ Proverbs 22:1, NLT
A spiritual gift is given to each of us so we can help each other.
~ 1 Corinthians 12:7, NLT
...Only in returning to me and resting in me will you be saved. In quietness and confidence is your strength.
~ Isaiah 30:15, NLT
He will cover you with his feathers. He will shelter you with his wings. His faithful promises are your armor and protection.
~ Psalm 91:4, NLT
God’s law was given so that all people could see how sinful they were. But as people sinned more and more, God’s wonderful grace became more abundant.
~ Romans 5:20, NLT
For the kind of sorrow God wants us to experience leads us away from sin and results in salvation.
~ 2 Corinthians 7:10, NLT
Live in harmony with each other. Don’t be too proud to enjoy the company of ordinary people. And don’t think you know it all!
~ Romans 12:16, NLT
So don’t be afraid; you are more valuable to God than a whole flock of sparrows.
~ Matthew 10:31, NLT
God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort.
~ 2 Corinthians 1:3, NLT
They must not slander anyone and must avoid quarreling. Instead, they should be gentle and show true humility to everyone.
~ Titus 3:2, NLT
Charm is deceptive, and beauty does not last; but a woman who fears the Lord will be greatly praised.
~ Proverbs 31:30, NLT
I no longer count on my own righteousness through obeying the law; rather, I become righteous through faith in Christ.
~ Philippians 3:9, NLT
Let me hear of your unfailing love in the morning, for I am trusting you. Show me where to walk, for I have come to you in prayer.
~ Psalm 143:8, NLT
Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each day.
~ Lamentations 3:23, NLT
I refresh the humble and give new courage to those with repentant hearts.
~ Isaiah 57:15, NLT
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Catching up
Wow...I can't believe it has been so long since I have written in my blog! So much has been happening in my life, some more important than others. Some more confusing than others. Some irritating, some happy, some exhausting, some peaceful...I have a mix of everything, which I am sure must keep me well balanced...on the edge. As the little sign next to my desk says "I'll have a Cafe-Mocha-Vodka-Valium Latte to go please...!
I have a new grandsonI Babies are such miracles from God. They are so precious and Elijah Justice is perfect in every way. I am quite certain of that. I need to go visit him! Seems like all I do is work and grandma is neglecting to get over there and spoil him!
Everything else in my life is still being thought out with little accomplished in the "done" department. I find each day that I am such a different person than I was even a year ago. I was surprised to discover a vengeful part of myself last week. A "you hurt me and I will get even" part of me. And indeed I did get even a little...I believe more to re-build my own self esteem after having it shattered than to hurt them, but a little to both I guess. Yet I was shocked as I self analyzed (with a brownie and a diet coke..such an oxymoron) to discover what kind of person I was becoming and to what ends I would stoop to just to build myself up. I am glad I caught it and the reasoning behind it before I truly hurt someone I care about. However, I am not certain that I have anything mastered, so no applause yet. I will probably at least kick someone in the shins.
I find the busy summer months keep me from doing the things I enjoy most and so I long for the peaceful days of autumn. I am most happy during the autumn months. I refect a lot during autumn and seem to find peace I am unable to find at any other time of the year. So as I suffer through the heat of summer, my longing is for September and the inner joy that comes naturally with it. I have always felt closer to God during that time. Maybe it is because everything is dying. Hmmmmm.....well enough about that.
Eric and Ashley are keeping themselves busy. Eric is moving in a couple of weeks to attend a culinary school. How did I ever get a child that loves to cook? I do not like cooking at all. Actually I like to bake, but do that very seldom anymore. Ashley is busy with her band, Wake Up Jane. They are in process of recording their first cd so every Monday they go to a professional studio and work on it. They also have several gigs lined up including 2 youth conferences, a jazz concert with a professional jazz band from New York, and Octoberfest in Athena. They have also ordered t-shirts. As long as she is having a good time, I can roll like this. All of my kids have made me so proud!
The house still has not sold and I hope it will soon. I feel that restlessness, the need to move away from Wallowa county, often. Something to pray about and think about I guess. Life feels very uncertain right now, so many changes that could happen in the blink of an eye. Perhaps too many options. But for now I will just set my rear down and do what I do every day.
I have a new grandsonI Babies are such miracles from God. They are so precious and Elijah Justice is perfect in every way. I am quite certain of that. I need to go visit him! Seems like all I do is work and grandma is neglecting to get over there and spoil him!
Everything else in my life is still being thought out with little accomplished in the "done" department. I find each day that I am such a different person than I was even a year ago. I was surprised to discover a vengeful part of myself last week. A "you hurt me and I will get even" part of me. And indeed I did get even a little...I believe more to re-build my own self esteem after having it shattered than to hurt them, but a little to both I guess. Yet I was shocked as I self analyzed (with a brownie and a diet coke..such an oxymoron) to discover what kind of person I was becoming and to what ends I would stoop to just to build myself up. I am glad I caught it and the reasoning behind it before I truly hurt someone I care about. However, I am not certain that I have anything mastered, so no applause yet. I will probably at least kick someone in the shins.
I find the busy summer months keep me from doing the things I enjoy most and so I long for the peaceful days of autumn. I am most happy during the autumn months. I refect a lot during autumn and seem to find peace I am unable to find at any other time of the year. So as I suffer through the heat of summer, my longing is for September and the inner joy that comes naturally with it. I have always felt closer to God during that time. Maybe it is because everything is dying. Hmmmmm.....well enough about that.
Eric and Ashley are keeping themselves busy. Eric is moving in a couple of weeks to attend a culinary school. How did I ever get a child that loves to cook? I do not like cooking at all. Actually I like to bake, but do that very seldom anymore. Ashley is busy with her band, Wake Up Jane. They are in process of recording their first cd so every Monday they go to a professional studio and work on it. They also have several gigs lined up including 2 youth conferences, a jazz concert with a professional jazz band from New York, and Octoberfest in Athena. They have also ordered t-shirts. As long as she is having a good time, I can roll like this. All of my kids have made me so proud!
The house still has not sold and I hope it will soon. I feel that restlessness, the need to move away from Wallowa county, often. Something to pray about and think about I guess. Life feels very uncertain right now, so many changes that could happen in the blink of an eye. Perhaps too many options. But for now I will just set my rear down and do what I do every day.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
TAMMY!!!
My co-worker, Anne Melville, went to visit her granddaughters in Hermiston last week,. The kids had this sidewalk chalk with 3D glasses. It really looks 3D! So I thought I would make sure you know about it! The kids had a great time with it! They got it at Walmart.
Monday, May 18, 2009
Isaiah Buck and the girls
The girls, Leanna, Joella and Ashley got to go see Isaiah Saturday. They had a great time with him, many laughs and hugs. Ashley said he was like the old Isaiah with his humor and sarcasm (fun sarcasm). He seemed tired a lot, but they really had much fun! He should be hom June 20th so the Bucks are busy remodeling their house to prepare. Isaiah does walk, but his balance is sometimes off. Pray that he eats better so they can take out his feeding tube. He is eating pudding and mashed tators. His throat needs some healing. He is truly a walking miracle. He regained his emotions so has had some tears and much laughter. God is good.Wake Up Jane (Ashley, Leanna, Joella and Elliot) played for the Wallowa county Talent Show yesterday. They are just so cool!
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Ahhh......coffee, coffee, coffee.......how do I love thee? Let me count the ways. Lets see.....with caramel or hazelnut flavoring is always good, sugar free, fat free, with one of those nice little coffee beans on top of the cup. Yes, that is the best way. I admit it. My name is Jackie and I am a coffee-a-holic. I drink at least one pot a day and Tuesdays and Thursdays are especially special because my friend Marty delivers to my office a very special latte every week. So I am totally overdosed on those days. There is always a pot of coffee in the office. This last time I broke down and bought Duncan Donuts ground up coffee. It is really good and I resent having to go back to cheap coffee. But it is just coffee after all. At least with the cheap stuff I can add flavored creamer to satisfy. mmmmm..I love coffee. I think it must be a Mallon trait.
Good news came last night at a school meeting that Isaiah is suppose to be home by mid June. Tammy: one of the teachers here, Mrs. Vernum, plays in an orchestra and was in Hermiston doing a concert. She was visiting with other orchestra members. Some of the Hermiston orchestra told her their church had been praying for Isaiah! I wondered if it was someone from your church.
I really don't even have anything to say today. Just felt like babbling. Probably because I am alone at work and have no one to talk to.
Good news came last night at a school meeting that Isaiah is suppose to be home by mid June. Tammy: one of the teachers here, Mrs. Vernum, plays in an orchestra and was in Hermiston doing a concert. She was visiting with other orchestra members. Some of the Hermiston orchestra told her their church had been praying for Isaiah! I wondered if it was someone from your church.
I really don't even have anything to say today. Just felt like babbling. Probably because I am alone at work and have no one to talk to.
Friday, May 1, 2009
The Ball
I know when you read this you are going to think "Jackie, what were you
thinking!" That is the whole problem! I wasn't thinking!!!
Tonight is Ashley's school ball. At 6:30. Today I remembered the following
things:
1. Her dress needs hemmed, it is way too long. Like several feet. So I
have to do that when I get home at 5:15
2. She also has to take 1 liter of 7-up and a container of apple juice.
Ok, I can go grab that at the store at lunchtime and drop it off at the
school on the way home (it is 2 blockes from my house)
3. There is a cake walk and silent auction to help with the expenses of
her classmate that was in the accident and coma. Well, sorry, I can't do
this. I feel guilty, but i just don't have the time
4. She needs to bring a finger foods dessert. Someone shoot me now.
I would have Ashley take care of this, but she is at the school decorating
all day, then will come home and hurry to get ready. I am so stupid! I
have known these things for weeks and today it just became reality in my
brain!
So, at my lunchtime I suddenly remember that once I went to Dollarstrecher
and bought a bucket of frozen cream puffs. And then I took them to a
wedding rehearsal and sprinkled powdered sugar on them and then drizzled
them in chocolate. Wa la!! So off I went to Dollarstrecher to get the
bounty. Quite proud of myself at this point....
THEN......my brain was quite good to me. I thought about how I hate
sewing and what a pain it is going to be to hem this beautiful dress. And
a friend I did see in Safeway and she suggested: Duct Tape...............when you live in the country you memorize the manual "10,000 Things You Can Do With Baling Twine and Duct Tape". Well, why didn't I think of Duct tape before??? Do not laugh at my redneck ways......and this bears no further comment from
you either......
I mean really! Duct tape like...saves the world! Whether you are putting
it across someone's mouth, waxing with it, or hemming a ball gown.....and
it comes in Martha Stewart colors! But alas Safeway only had it in white,
but IT WAS ON SALE!!!! Everyone knows I love a good bargain! Now, my sister in law is the expert on Baling twine and I know she could have done something beautiful to the dress in baling twine, but I didn't have her here to help.
So tonight I will flee from work, go home, throw together the dessert and
tape up Ashleys gown and everyone will think I am supermom. And at 6:30
the girls will leave for the ball looking dazzling and giggling and I will
throw myself on the couch, put my feet up on the coffee table, and let out
a huge sigh...............and smile.
thinking!" That is the whole problem! I wasn't thinking!!!
Tonight is Ashley's school ball. At 6:30. Today I remembered the following
things:
1. Her dress needs hemmed, it is way too long. Like several feet. So I
have to do that when I get home at 5:15
2. She also has to take 1 liter of 7-up and a container of apple juice.
Ok, I can go grab that at the store at lunchtime and drop it off at the
school on the way home (it is 2 blockes from my house)
3. There is a cake walk and silent auction to help with the expenses of
her classmate that was in the accident and coma. Well, sorry, I can't do
this. I feel guilty, but i just don't have the time
4. She needs to bring a finger foods dessert. Someone shoot me now.
I would have Ashley take care of this, but she is at the school decorating
all day, then will come home and hurry to get ready. I am so stupid! I
have known these things for weeks and today it just became reality in my
brain!
So, at my lunchtime I suddenly remember that once I went to Dollarstrecher
and bought a bucket of frozen cream puffs. And then I took them to a
wedding rehearsal and sprinkled powdered sugar on them and then drizzled
them in chocolate. Wa la!! So off I went to Dollarstrecher to get the
bounty. Quite proud of myself at this point....
THEN......my brain was quite good to me. I thought about how I hate
sewing and what a pain it is going to be to hem this beautiful dress. And
a friend I did see in Safeway and she suggested: Duct Tape...............when you live in the country you memorize the manual "10,000 Things You Can Do With Baling Twine and Duct Tape". Well, why didn't I think of Duct tape before??? Do not laugh at my redneck ways......and this bears no further comment from
you either......
I mean really! Duct tape like...saves the world! Whether you are putting
it across someone's mouth, waxing with it, or hemming a ball gown.....and
it comes in Martha Stewart colors! But alas Safeway only had it in white,
but IT WAS ON SALE!!!! Everyone knows I love a good bargain! Now, my sister in law is the expert on Baling twine and I know she could have done something beautiful to the dress in baling twine, but I didn't have her here to help.
So tonight I will flee from work, go home, throw together the dessert and
tape up Ashleys gown and everyone will think I am supermom. And at 6:30
the girls will leave for the ball looking dazzling and giggling and I will
throw myself on the couch, put my feet up on the coffee table, and let out
a huge sigh...............and smile.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Update on Isaiah Buck and my world
This is an update by Mr. Buck Wednesday:
Just a brief update until Beckey can get to it.This week has been a challenge for all. Being here in Lostine I rely on Beckey's text messages and short videos. Isaiah was able to pull his trach out Tuesday and that caused some throat damage but he seems fine. Too active. Beckey and the girls have been staying with him 24 hours a day because he is so agitated. On the up side, he is coming more aware and more in control of his body. He actually moved a wheel chair by himself! We remain encouraged and are looking forward to seeing him settle down a bit. Please pray that he sleeps at night. This is our most urgent need. God has answered many prayers and we continue to put our hope and trust in Him.Archie
This was an update posted by Mrs. Buck Wednesday:
Wednesday, April 29, 2009 2:03 PM, PDT
Hello Loved Ones: So sorry ! I have had very little time to keep you all informed of Isaiah's progress. I am working on his laundry so I thought this would be a good time for an update.Isaiah is doing much better today. He is not agitated. Partially because he was awake most of night and also because he got his trach removed. Layken stayed with him last night and she got a work out. Her brother kept her on her toes. She is sleeping soundly now.We just recieved news that Isaiah will be moved to Elks Rehab. Hospital on Wed. We are very excited about this because this means a step closer to getting our Sai home in Wallowa County. Isaiah is very determined and this has aided his recovery. Today Isaiah actually tried to shave himself with his elec. razor. He was able to pick it up and put it to his face. He is following verbal directions a little better each day.And that is how we live. We labor today and let God prepare us for tomorrow.
So that is the latest on isaiah...and you can read updates at http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/isaiahbuck/journal
Racheal...if you read this I just wanted to tell you thank you so much for the loving care the staff gave our Isaiah! You can't ever imagine how much you are all appreciated! Many hugs to all of you...we are forever grateful.
Now for my life.................Sarah is here! Crazy times, giggly girls. She is here for the school ball, which is tomorrow night! Oh Aunt Tammy, how I wish you could be here to foo foo up these girls! Such a special night for them! Sarah is 6'1", very tall. Ashley is 5'1". So Sarah walks beside Ashley and just pats her on the head. They are so funny. But the ball will be a very important night for all of the kids, especially in light of what has happened to Isaiah. This has been a life changing experience for all of them. Some time I need to make plans to take the girls over to see Isaiah.
I also purchased a new camera..a Nikon D40! It is a digital SLR and very complicated, but I am determined to get it figured out, since I will be paying on it the rest of my mortal life. I think I need a hobby, and photography seems like just the thing! Oh how I would love to have a studio and take photos of little girls dressed up having tea parties!
I look forward to a quiet evening alone tonight as the girls will be decorating for the ball. I might even get to watch Bones! I love that show!
Just a brief update until Beckey can get to it.This week has been a challenge for all. Being here in Lostine I rely on Beckey's text messages and short videos. Isaiah was able to pull his trach out Tuesday and that caused some throat damage but he seems fine. Too active. Beckey and the girls have been staying with him 24 hours a day because he is so agitated. On the up side, he is coming more aware and more in control of his body. He actually moved a wheel chair by himself! We remain encouraged and are looking forward to seeing him settle down a bit. Please pray that he sleeps at night. This is our most urgent need. God has answered many prayers and we continue to put our hope and trust in Him.Archie
This was an update posted by Mrs. Buck Wednesday:
Wednesday, April 29, 2009 2:03 PM, PDT
Hello Loved Ones: So sorry ! I have had very little time to keep you all informed of Isaiah's progress. I am working on his laundry so I thought this would be a good time for an update.Isaiah is doing much better today. He is not agitated. Partially because he was awake most of night and also because he got his trach removed. Layken stayed with him last night and she got a work out. Her brother kept her on her toes. She is sleeping soundly now.We just recieved news that Isaiah will be moved to Elks Rehab. Hospital on Wed. We are very excited about this because this means a step closer to getting our Sai home in Wallowa County. Isaiah is very determined and this has aided his recovery. Today Isaiah actually tried to shave himself with his elec. razor. He was able to pick it up and put it to his face. He is following verbal directions a little better each day.And that is how we live. We labor today and let God prepare us for tomorrow.
So that is the latest on isaiah...and you can read updates at http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/isaiahbuck/journal
Racheal...if you read this I just wanted to tell you thank you so much for the loving care the staff gave our Isaiah! You can't ever imagine how much you are all appreciated! Many hugs to all of you...we are forever grateful.
Now for my life.................Sarah is here! Crazy times, giggly girls. She is here for the school ball, which is tomorrow night! Oh Aunt Tammy, how I wish you could be here to foo foo up these girls! Such a special night for them! Sarah is 6'1", very tall. Ashley is 5'1". So Sarah walks beside Ashley and just pats her on the head. They are so funny. But the ball will be a very important night for all of the kids, especially in light of what has happened to Isaiah. This has been a life changing experience for all of them. Some time I need to make plans to take the girls over to see Isaiah.
I also purchased a new camera..a Nikon D40! It is a digital SLR and very complicated, but I am determined to get it figured out, since I will be paying on it the rest of my mortal life. I think I need a hobby, and photography seems like just the thing! Oh how I would love to have a studio and take photos of little girls dressed up having tea parties!
I look forward to a quiet evening alone tonight as the girls will be decorating for the ball. I might even get to watch Bones! I love that show!
Monday, April 27, 2009
Rejoicing
We are all so happy that Isaiah is now officially out of the coma! The physical therapists in Boise are working him over pretty good too. They even had him up and helped his walk 12 feet....4-5" at a time, more like a shuffle. But I am so proud of him!
Tomorrow Ashley and I go to pick up her friend Sarah! The school Ball is this coming Friday night...fun fun fun!
Tomorrow Ashley and I go to pick up her friend Sarah! The school Ball is this coming Friday night...fun fun fun!
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Isaiah Buck update and Wake Up jane
Isaiah has been moved to Boise to a rehab hosptal, so our hopes are high that the therapy he will recieve there will bring him out of the coma. It is odd that he does so much, yet is still technically in a coma. His mom, Beckey, posted this yesterday: (Layken and Shannon are Isaiah's sisters and Samantha is the baby Layken just had before Isaiah's accident)
"Just as I expected Isaiah slept most of the day on Wednesday. Layken, Samantha, Shannon and myself came and went throughout the day. Later in the afternoon Isaiah really started to wake up. Layken decided to bring Sam over to visit her Uncle "Buck". What happened next was just amazing. Isaiah reached his hand out over to Sam and put it gently on her her thigh and stared at her for the longest time. Layken had sat Sam next to Isaiah. Everytime Isaiah would cough he would remove his hand and then put it back, touching his niece. This went on for a little while. Sam started to get fussy so Layken took her away to feed her. Isaiah seemed to reach out his arm to Sam as if to say, "I wasn't done." Layken saw that and told Isaiah she would bring her back. She did, and Isaiah responded the same by touching her on her leg. Layken asked him a couple to times to hold her hand and he did. He did!! Layken then told Isaiah that we were leaving and to tell Sam goodnight. She was sitting upright with Layken's help, next to Isaiah. He brought his hand around Sam's back and brought her to his chest. We all cried. This was the most responsive Isaiah has been all week. I am awe struck at the power of family and the impact they play on one's healing. Watching my son interact with his neice was a powerful picture of this. This has renewed our "hope" for Isaiah's future healing process. My girls have left this morning but they have committed to coming back on Monday. This will be nice because I will feel comfortable going home for a couple of days and sleep in my own bed and pamper my husband.I am praying for another impactful day for our son. Jaymz Hayes and his family will be coming to Boise for some appts. They will stop by to visit and I am hopeful that Isaiah will be able to communicate with them as well."...But we will trust in the Lord".
Tonight I am going to my friend Sue's for a girls night out. That should be fun for us! Ashleys band, Wake Up Jane, is playing Saturday at the Youth Arts festival in Joseph. It won't be the same without Isaiah on the guitar, but it will still be good. I think 7 out of the ten songs they are singing they wrote themselves.
Life is quiet, thankfully.
"Just as I expected Isaiah slept most of the day on Wednesday. Layken, Samantha, Shannon and myself came and went throughout the day. Later in the afternoon Isaiah really started to wake up. Layken decided to bring Sam over to visit her Uncle "Buck". What happened next was just amazing. Isaiah reached his hand out over to Sam and put it gently on her her thigh and stared at her for the longest time. Layken had sat Sam next to Isaiah. Everytime Isaiah would cough he would remove his hand and then put it back, touching his niece. This went on for a little while. Sam started to get fussy so Layken took her away to feed her. Isaiah seemed to reach out his arm to Sam as if to say, "I wasn't done." Layken saw that and told Isaiah she would bring her back. She did, and Isaiah responded the same by touching her on her leg. Layken asked him a couple to times to hold her hand and he did. He did!! Layken then told Isaiah that we were leaving and to tell Sam goodnight. She was sitting upright with Layken's help, next to Isaiah. He brought his hand around Sam's back and brought her to his chest. We all cried. This was the most responsive Isaiah has been all week. I am awe struck at the power of family and the impact they play on one's healing. Watching my son interact with his neice was a powerful picture of this. This has renewed our "hope" for Isaiah's future healing process. My girls have left this morning but they have committed to coming back on Monday. This will be nice because I will feel comfortable going home for a couple of days and sleep in my own bed and pamper my husband.I am praying for another impactful day for our son. Jaymz Hayes and his family will be coming to Boise for some appts. They will stop by to visit and I am hopeful that Isaiah will be able to communicate with them as well."...But we will trust in the Lord".
Tonight I am going to my friend Sue's for a girls night out. That should be fun for us! Ashleys band, Wake Up Jane, is playing Saturday at the Youth Arts festival in Joseph. It won't be the same without Isaiah on the guitar, but it will still be good. I think 7 out of the ten songs they are singing they wrote themselves.
Life is quiet, thankfully.
Friday, April 17, 2009
Update on Isaiah Buck 04-17-09 and other stuff
Well it looks like Isaiah Buck WILL get accepted in the facility in Boise after all. Praise the Lord! God is so good! So tomorrow he is suppose to arrive in Boise at 1:00.......so we pray for his travels and that he makes it there safe. I don't know why I say "we". I don't really mean it like I have multiple personality disorder. I just assume many people are praying that way! Anyway, it is exciting to watch God move...see many miracles...and know His love is there with the Buck family, bringing them wisdom, comfort, and love during all of this. I don't know how anyone could make it through this without God...without hope, without that peace and love that can only come from Him.
Lets see..........my world seems to be stalled somehow. At least my brain is. I have been neglecting to do things I need to do. So maybe this weekend I will grease my brain and get things moving again. I did pay a partial payment on my taxes. I will probably get some letters from the IRS and Oregon tax people. Oh well. I will get it paid somehow, some way. They can just chill out. Or I will have to resort to begging them to chill out.
I am looking forward to the weekend! Going bowling tonight with a friend. Actually I might let him bowl and I will watch. I am still looking forward to some fun though!
Lets see..........my world seems to be stalled somehow. At least my brain is. I have been neglecting to do things I need to do. So maybe this weekend I will grease my brain and get things moving again. I did pay a partial payment on my taxes. I will probably get some letters from the IRS and Oregon tax people. Oh well. I will get it paid somehow, some way. They can just chill out. Or I will have to resort to begging them to chill out.
I am looking forward to the weekend! Going bowling tonight with a friend. Actually I might let him bowl and I will watch. I am still looking forward to some fun though!
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Isaiah Buck and other little thoughts
The Buck family has run into a bit of a glitch. It was planned to move Isaiah to a rehab facility in Boise, but now that facility has rejected Isaiah due to money issues (the insurance company doesn't want to pay) So they are trying to get him into a good facility and I am not sure what all the issues are with money, but they really need prayer so Isaiah can keep moving forward with good therapy. We know that God is our provider and we will pray and it will be interesting to see how God takes care of this!
Mr. Buck also has explained that Isaiah is still technically in a coma. I had been stuggling to understand how he could be doing so many things, yet still be in a coma. It turns out he does do things at times, but many times he does not respond at all to what they ask of him. They have reported the things that have excited them, like him squeezing a hand or whatever else...but there are many times Isaiah just sleeps. So he still needs so much prayer.............never ceasing....
The Lostine Tavern had a really great fundraiser last night for the families of the accident. There were people parked all up and down the street and crammed into the tavern for tacos and a pie auction. I heard the first pie went for $400.
I have been having some other thoughts lately about myself and my feelings about others. I have been thinking so logically! Sort of like Spoc, from Star trek.............I could work for the FBI! But a friend of mine got into a wee bit of trouble. And I have been wondering about my emotional lack of emotions...he he. Oh never mind...psychological stuff is so hard to explain. I'm not going there...................Suffice to say I pick and choose what goes on my shoulders and what doesn't. What is my problem and what isn't. And it is very freeing to be able to do that. The mother of this friend tried to lay a guilt trip on me...and I was able to say "stop...no. I had nothing to do with this" She might want to live her life feeling sick over things others do, but I won't. His decisions were HIS decisions.
Anyway, Bethany has my house a total mess as she packs boxes for the trip to Conneticut to be a nanny. What an amazing experience it will be for her!! I am very proud of her and I wish her all the best.
Mr. Buck also has explained that Isaiah is still technically in a coma. I had been stuggling to understand how he could be doing so many things, yet still be in a coma. It turns out he does do things at times, but many times he does not respond at all to what they ask of him. They have reported the things that have excited them, like him squeezing a hand or whatever else...but there are many times Isaiah just sleeps. So he still needs so much prayer.............never ceasing....
The Lostine Tavern had a really great fundraiser last night for the families of the accident. There were people parked all up and down the street and crammed into the tavern for tacos and a pie auction. I heard the first pie went for $400.
I have been having some other thoughts lately about myself and my feelings about others. I have been thinking so logically! Sort of like Spoc, from Star trek.............I could work for the FBI! But a friend of mine got into a wee bit of trouble. And I have been wondering about my emotional lack of emotions...he he. Oh never mind...psychological stuff is so hard to explain. I'm not going there...................Suffice to say I pick and choose what goes on my shoulders and what doesn't. What is my problem and what isn't. And it is very freeing to be able to do that. The mother of this friend tried to lay a guilt trip on me...and I was able to say "stop...no. I had nothing to do with this" She might want to live her life feeling sick over things others do, but I won't. His decisions were HIS decisions.
Anyway, Bethany has my house a total mess as she packs boxes for the trip to Conneticut to be a nanny. What an amazing experience it will be for her!! I am very proud of her and I wish her all the best.
Monday, April 13, 2009
Update on Isaiah Buck
Monday, April 13, 2009 1:27 PM, PDT
REJOICE IN THE ALWAYS! AGAIN I SAY REJOICE!
This morning Beckey told me he was rubbing his eyes and acting like he was trying to wake up.
Just a few minutes ago Isaiah became very responsive. He has opened his eyes and kept them open. He was asked to hold up two fingers and held up three, all the while trying to hold up two. Beckey asked him to give her a thumbs up if he understood her. He gave her a thumbs up! She repeated the request, he did it again.
Hallelujah. We don't know if this will continue today but for now we are rejoicing and feel like dancing.
Thank you Father God for your many mercies. We praise you for giving us this sun beam of hope. Please give us strength to persevere and pour out your Holy Spirit on Isaiah with healing and hope in his heart.
Amen
Archie Buck
So hallelujia!!! Isn't this exciting? I am so excited I can't stop eating chocolate so I will be having a talk with Isaiah some day about my waistline...oh praise you Jesus!
REJOICE IN THE ALWAYS! AGAIN I SAY REJOICE!
This morning Beckey told me he was rubbing his eyes and acting like he was trying to wake up.
Just a few minutes ago Isaiah became very responsive. He has opened his eyes and kept them open. He was asked to hold up two fingers and held up three, all the while trying to hold up two. Beckey asked him to give her a thumbs up if he understood her. He gave her a thumbs up! She repeated the request, he did it again.
Hallelujah. We don't know if this will continue today but for now we are rejoicing and feel like dancing.
Thank you Father God for your many mercies. We praise you for giving us this sun beam of hope. Please give us strength to persevere and pour out your Holy Spirit on Isaiah with healing and hope in his heart.
Amen
Archie Buck
So hallelujia!!! Isn't this exciting? I am so excited I can't stop eating chocolate so I will be having a talk with Isaiah some day about my waistline...oh praise you Jesus!
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Hot Cross Buns
Good Easter Morn'! What a beautiful cloudy day it is here! So many Easter days we have snow.....yes the kids have been known to hunt eggs in the snow. And they give you a look like "oh this is loads of fun mom...thanks...."
Unexpectedly Ashley is at my house for Easter since her father went to be with his family yesterday and decided not to return. So I didn't plan an Easter dinner. I guess that is good, we can just enjoy the holiday for it's true meaning...........Jesus is risen! I am however making the traditional Hot Cross Buns. we needed something traditional on this day.
Hot cross buns!
Hot cross buns!
One ha' penny, two ha' penny,
Hot cross buns!
If you have no daughters,
Give them to your sons
One ha' penny,
Two ha' penny,
Hot Cross Buns!
Kind of an English tradition...though even my mom from England didn't make them as far as I can remember. But I enjoy making them for my kids. I did get the following about Hot Cross Buns on the internet:
"Hot crossed buns. "At the feast to Eastre, an ox was sacrificed and the image of his horns carved into ritual bread - which evolved into the twice-scored Easter biscuits we call 'hot cross buns.' In fact, the word 'bun' derives from the Saxon for 'sacred ox,' 'boun.'" Sacred Origins of Profound Things. A cross bun kept from one Good Friday to the next was thought to bring luck, the buns were supposed to serve as a charm against shipwreck, and hanging a bun over the chimneypiece ensured that all bread baked there would be perfect. Another belief was that eating hot cross buns on Good Friday served to protect the home from fire. "
That is really quite awful. I think I will not tell my children about what this tradition really is about. Actually now that I think about it Eric and Justin and studied much about the Saxons and probably knew it all along, wondering why their mother feeds them these hot crossed buns. Further reading about hot cross buns leads to the worship of different gods and goddesses. hmm...I was sure us Christians had our own story about the buns. Oh well.....this one explains a little happier story:
"Bath buns, hot cross buns, spice buns, penny buns, Chelsea buns, currant buns-all these small, soft, plump, sweet, fermented' cakes are English institutions...The most interesting of the recipes is perhaps the simple spiced fruit bun, the original of our Good Friday hot cross bun without the cross. These spice buns first became popular in Tudor days, at the same period as the larger spice loaves or cakes, and were no doubt usually made form the same batch of spcied and butter-enriched fruit dough. For a long time bakers were permitted to offer these breads and buns for sale only on special occasions, as is shown by the following decree, issued in 1592, the thirty-sixth year of the reign of Elizabeth I, by the London Clerk of the Markets: That no bakers, etc, at any time or times hereafter make, utter, or sell by retail, within or without their houses, unto any of the Queen's subject any spice cakes, buns, biscuits, or other spice bread (being bread out of size and not by law allowed) except it be at burials, or on Friday before Easter, or at Christmas, upon pain or forfeiture of all such spiced bread to the poor...If anybody wanted spice bread and buns for a private celebration, then, these delicacies had to be made at home. In the time of James I, further attempts to prevent bakers from making spice breads and buns proved impossible for enforce, and in this matter thhe bakers were allowed their way. Although for difference reasons, the situation now is much as it was in the late seventeenth century, spice buns appearing only at Easter--not, to be sure, on Good Friday when bakeries are closed, but about a fortnight in advance..."---English Bread and Yeast Cookery, Elizabeth David
Isaiah Buck will be moved to a rehab facility when he is ready to leave the hospital. He has been having a lot of trouble breathing and I think yesterday or today they were going to give him a tracheaotomy to possibly help with that. And another CAT scan of the chest. He still has not woken from his coma. We pray and pray he will continue to heal and eventually wake up and come back to us. His family is really needing prayer, this has all been so difficult.
Well, I think I will make my house clean and finish those buns! Happy Easter........
I wish a blessed Easter Day for all................
Unexpectedly Ashley is at my house for Easter since her father went to be with his family yesterday and decided not to return. So I didn't plan an Easter dinner. I guess that is good, we can just enjoy the holiday for it's true meaning...........Jesus is risen! I am however making the traditional Hot Cross Buns. we needed something traditional on this day.
Hot cross buns!
Hot cross buns!
One ha' penny, two ha' penny,
Hot cross buns!
If you have no daughters,
Give them to your sons
One ha' penny,
Two ha' penny,
Hot Cross Buns!
Kind of an English tradition...though even my mom from England didn't make them as far as I can remember. But I enjoy making them for my kids. I did get the following about Hot Cross Buns on the internet:
"Hot crossed buns. "At the feast to Eastre, an ox was sacrificed and the image of his horns carved into ritual bread - which evolved into the twice-scored Easter biscuits we call 'hot cross buns.' In fact, the word 'bun' derives from the Saxon for 'sacred ox,' 'boun.'" Sacred Origins of Profound Things. A cross bun kept from one Good Friday to the next was thought to bring luck, the buns were supposed to serve as a charm against shipwreck, and hanging a bun over the chimneypiece ensured that all bread baked there would be perfect. Another belief was that eating hot cross buns on Good Friday served to protect the home from fire. "
That is really quite awful. I think I will not tell my children about what this tradition really is about. Actually now that I think about it Eric and Justin and studied much about the Saxons and probably knew it all along, wondering why their mother feeds them these hot crossed buns. Further reading about hot cross buns leads to the worship of different gods and goddesses. hmm...I was sure us Christians had our own story about the buns. Oh well.....this one explains a little happier story:
"Bath buns, hot cross buns, spice buns, penny buns, Chelsea buns, currant buns-all these small, soft, plump, sweet, fermented' cakes are English institutions...The most interesting of the recipes is perhaps the simple spiced fruit bun, the original of our Good Friday hot cross bun without the cross. These spice buns first became popular in Tudor days, at the same period as the larger spice loaves or cakes, and were no doubt usually made form the same batch of spcied and butter-enriched fruit dough. For a long time bakers were permitted to offer these breads and buns for sale only on special occasions, as is shown by the following decree, issued in 1592, the thirty-sixth year of the reign of Elizabeth I, by the London Clerk of the Markets: That no bakers, etc, at any time or times hereafter make, utter, or sell by retail, within or without their houses, unto any of the Queen's subject any spice cakes, buns, biscuits, or other spice bread (being bread out of size and not by law allowed) except it be at burials, or on Friday before Easter, or at Christmas, upon pain or forfeiture of all such spiced bread to the poor...If anybody wanted spice bread and buns for a private celebration, then, these delicacies had to be made at home. In the time of James I, further attempts to prevent bakers from making spice breads and buns proved impossible for enforce, and in this matter thhe bakers were allowed their way. Although for difference reasons, the situation now is much as it was in the late seventeenth century, spice buns appearing only at Easter--not, to be sure, on Good Friday when bakeries are closed, but about a fortnight in advance..."---English Bread and Yeast Cookery, Elizabeth David
Isaiah Buck will be moved to a rehab facility when he is ready to leave the hospital. He has been having a lot of trouble breathing and I think yesterday or today they were going to give him a tracheaotomy to possibly help with that. And another CAT scan of the chest. He still has not woken from his coma. We pray and pray he will continue to heal and eventually wake up and come back to us. His family is really needing prayer, this has all been so difficult.
Well, I think I will make my house clean and finish those buns! Happy Easter........
I wish a blessed Easter Day for all................
Friday, April 10, 2009
Isaiah Buck 4-10-09
I am thinking and praying a lot for Isaiah........he is such a fighter. I wish he would wake up, yet I know that God's timing is perfect and he will waken Isaah when the time is right. That doesn't always keep me from giving God my little opinions though...LOL. I call them prayers, but I am sure God calls them "opinions".
This morning I was thinking about my hydrangeas and how I am excited to see them come up and prove that Spring really has arrived (silly me). But then I thought that if they did come up too early, they might get bit by the frost and the results would not be good. My friend Sharon also had the same thoughts going through her head and she wrote a beautiful message on her facebook page about Isaiah and this is what she wrote:
"Last fall, my husband completed the rock-walled flower garden that can be seen from my kitchen window. I planted crocus bulbs, hyacinth bulbs and tulip bulbs then. A couple of weeks ago, the little crocus leaves shot up out of the ground. I was so excited to see them. I've been watching them with such anticipation...where is the flower? This morning when I looked out my window...a little yellow crocus had bloomed. I am so excited.I thought back at the bulbs that I planted. Bulbs look strange - like there is no life in them. Those bulbs lay comatose in the ground all winter with seemingly no life in them - unable to express themselves. But all the while, my Creator was working in them - getting them ready to bloom. First there were the leaves that popped out of the ground - just the beginning part of what the crocus would become.It has reminded me of our dear brother, Isaiah. He lies on his bed comatose (bulb) - but our Creator is working in him. There have been little signs (leaves) - eyes tracking light, movement of his arms and legs and eyes. We all wait in anticipation for when he will bloom - come into a full flower - and be able to fully express himself. But it gives me hope. Everytime I look out my kitchen window and see that beautiful little crocus bloom - I am reminded that the Creator of the universe is taking care of Isaiah and it gives me great comfort and fills my heart with hope."
Many of Sharon's thoughts give me hope and strength and remind me to pray without ceasing. She is a beautiful woman of God and I am blessed she is my neighbor!
Ashley recieved healing by a poem Isaiah had written and asked one of the girls in their band to put to music. He was going to sing it to Ashley at their next gig.
Anyway, as for my day I went to the quilt shop today and bought fabric for a new quilt I am making for a gift. AND I got the fabric 50% off! WOOT!!! I love good bargains! I have 3 quilts lined up to make and I am SO excited!!! Tis the season to be jolly!
This morning I was thinking about my hydrangeas and how I am excited to see them come up and prove that Spring really has arrived (silly me). But then I thought that if they did come up too early, they might get bit by the frost and the results would not be good. My friend Sharon also had the same thoughts going through her head and she wrote a beautiful message on her facebook page about Isaiah and this is what she wrote:
"Last fall, my husband completed the rock-walled flower garden that can be seen from my kitchen window. I planted crocus bulbs, hyacinth bulbs and tulip bulbs then. A couple of weeks ago, the little crocus leaves shot up out of the ground. I was so excited to see them. I've been watching them with such anticipation...where is the flower? This morning when I looked out my window...a little yellow crocus had bloomed. I am so excited.I thought back at the bulbs that I planted. Bulbs look strange - like there is no life in them. Those bulbs lay comatose in the ground all winter with seemingly no life in them - unable to express themselves. But all the while, my Creator was working in them - getting them ready to bloom. First there were the leaves that popped out of the ground - just the beginning part of what the crocus would become.It has reminded me of our dear brother, Isaiah. He lies on his bed comatose (bulb) - but our Creator is working in him. There have been little signs (leaves) - eyes tracking light, movement of his arms and legs and eyes. We all wait in anticipation for when he will bloom - come into a full flower - and be able to fully express himself. But it gives me hope. Everytime I look out my kitchen window and see that beautiful little crocus bloom - I am reminded that the Creator of the universe is taking care of Isaiah and it gives me great comfort and fills my heart with hope."
Many of Sharon's thoughts give me hope and strength and remind me to pray without ceasing. She is a beautiful woman of God and I am blessed she is my neighbor!
Ashley recieved healing by a poem Isaiah had written and asked one of the girls in their band to put to music. He was going to sing it to Ashley at their next gig.
Anyway, as for my day I went to the quilt shop today and bought fabric for a new quilt I am making for a gift. AND I got the fabric 50% off! WOOT!!! I love good bargains! I have 3 quilts lined up to make and I am SO excited!!! Tis the season to be jolly!
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Isaiah Buck 4-8-09
Pastor Terry writes:It looks like we have some positive news after a very long day. The nurses confirmed some positive eye movement. We are so thankful! They shined the light in his eyes twice and he tracked with the light. It seems he is coming out of the lower stages of the doldrums. Keep praying that this leads to his awakening. Bless the Lord Oh my soul! Terry
Mr. Buck writes: A correction and an update. Last night when I was being told about the eye movement I heard my aunt say "doldrums" and she really said "doll's eyes". It seems the naval battle book I am reading has influenced my thinking. :-) Isaiah continues to show much activity with hands, arms and legs and eye movements (even though they are still closed). They hope to move him to a less critical ward in a few days, perhaps.
Mr. Bucks writes again: The progressive care unit is currently full but when he is a little more stable and it has an opening he has been approved to be moved. We are still asking that people not visit. He gets easily agitated and that causes all sorts of issues and then they have to dope him up. Beckey and I send our heart felt thanks to you all for your prayers and support. We continue in hope.
Mr. Buck writes: A correction and an update. Last night when I was being told about the eye movement I heard my aunt say "doldrums" and she really said "doll's eyes". It seems the naval battle book I am reading has influenced my thinking. :-) Isaiah continues to show much activity with hands, arms and legs and eye movements (even though they are still closed). They hope to move him to a less critical ward in a few days, perhaps.
Mr. Bucks writes again: The progressive care unit is currently full but when he is a little more stable and it has an opening he has been approved to be moved. We are still asking that people not visit. He gets easily agitated and that causes all sorts of issues and then they have to dope him up. Beckey and I send our heart felt thanks to you all for your prayers and support. We continue in hope.
Monday, April 6, 2009
From the keyboard of Pastor Terry: 4-4-09
Dear friends, church family and loved ones,
A short report and exhortation----
We have heard some troubling news this morning from the neurosurgeon about Isaiah. The MRI has been read and we have learned that our Isaiah is suffering from “diffuse brain shake”. There are many bruises throughout the brain, but two particularly of great concern. One is in the area that effects communication between the left and right sides of the brain. This is very critical. Also, in the area of the brain that helps wake you up out of a coma. We are all very concerned. If Isaiah does not awake from this the prognosis is not good. The EEG showed a slow pattern, which was what was expected. The good news is that it did not show any signs of seizures. We need to continue to pray for Isaiah that he would awake from the coma and tell us of his great adventures. We all love him so much. In Jeremiah 29:11-12 we read of a promise which the Prophet gave to the nation of Israel in her darkest hour. Even a candle shines the brightest in the deepe st darkness. The Lord told that despairing nation. “I know the plans I have for you says the Lord, plans of good and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.” Such a people had just been trampled by an unstoppable army. But, instead of these words being trite, they were a powerful encouragement. A future and a hope are ahead, unstoppable, coming, set in the unchanging plans of God. We are told this when nothing we see can confirm it at this time. But, It is our Lord who holds the future, He has told us this and therefore we have hope. God’s people along with God’s whole creation groan, in travail, as in child birth Paul says in Romans. We groan….waiting, waiting, waiting. But waiting in Hope, hope, hope. We shall all one day awake and we shall spend eternity sharing our adventures. But until then we wait, Pray that the Lord would allow Isaiah to wait with us.
4-5-09
From Pastor Terry:Dear family, friends and all those praying, We are still waiting on the Lord to open Isaiah’s eyes. He had slits tonight. It felt good to see them. The eyes really are the window to the soul. And , of course, if you know the Buck’s you know Isaiah has eye lashes to envy (it’s a family trait). Please keep praying for him. It was announced today at the funeral for Jeff that Isaiah is off the ventilator. This is mostly true. He has been off for up to two hours and I think tomorrow they will remove it, but for tonight they are helping him to breathHe will be given a feeding tube into his stomach instead of down his throat. They plan on leaving the tubes in his lungs in the event that they need to use them again that new holes will not have to be made. We rejoiced today so mightily at church, our hearts were so uplifted. Christ Covenant Church is a singing church, and for that I am very thankful. It is good for the soul. Congregational singing is so medicinal. Isaiah looks better tonight. The staples from his wounds were removed and by tomorrow he should be resting even more comfortably. Thank you for your prayers. Terry
My notes: This has been a very difficult week as we pray and pray that each family invoved in the accidents are comforted by God's loving arms. The shock that went through the community is massive. Jeff Geartner was very much loved and the impact he had on the people here was huge. The young lady who lives with me grieves heavily for Jeff's passing as he was her youth pastor, but we have had some really good talks and she is comforted in knowing Jeff is living the high life in heaven. She is only one of so many lives he touched. He will be very much missed. As for Isaiah we pray without ceasing. It seems as though even when I am sleeping the thoughts "Wake up Isaiah, in the name of Jesus, wake up" still run through my mind. I worry about Ashley. She wants to go visit, but I think is not quite ready.
I am worried about so many things, but then I have to remind myself "Be still, and know that I am God"
Dear friends, church family and loved ones,
A short report and exhortation----
We have heard some troubling news this morning from the neurosurgeon about Isaiah. The MRI has been read and we have learned that our Isaiah is suffering from “diffuse brain shake”. There are many bruises throughout the brain, but two particularly of great concern. One is in the area that effects communication between the left and right sides of the brain. This is very critical. Also, in the area of the brain that helps wake you up out of a coma. We are all very concerned. If Isaiah does not awake from this the prognosis is not good. The EEG showed a slow pattern, which was what was expected. The good news is that it did not show any signs of seizures. We need to continue to pray for Isaiah that he would awake from the coma and tell us of his great adventures. We all love him so much. In Jeremiah 29:11-12 we read of a promise which the Prophet gave to the nation of Israel in her darkest hour. Even a candle shines the brightest in the deepe st darkness. The Lord told that despairing nation. “I know the plans I have for you says the Lord, plans of good and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.” Such a people had just been trampled by an unstoppable army. But, instead of these words being trite, they were a powerful encouragement. A future and a hope are ahead, unstoppable, coming, set in the unchanging plans of God. We are told this when nothing we see can confirm it at this time. But, It is our Lord who holds the future, He has told us this and therefore we have hope. God’s people along with God’s whole creation groan, in travail, as in child birth Paul says in Romans. We groan….waiting, waiting, waiting. But waiting in Hope, hope, hope. We shall all one day awake and we shall spend eternity sharing our adventures. But until then we wait, Pray that the Lord would allow Isaiah to wait with us.
4-5-09
From Pastor Terry:Dear family, friends and all those praying, We are still waiting on the Lord to open Isaiah’s eyes. He had slits tonight. It felt good to see them. The eyes really are the window to the soul. And , of course, if you know the Buck’s you know Isaiah has eye lashes to envy (it’s a family trait). Please keep praying for him. It was announced today at the funeral for Jeff that Isaiah is off the ventilator. This is mostly true. He has been off for up to two hours and I think tomorrow they will remove it, but for tonight they are helping him to breathHe will be given a feeding tube into his stomach instead of down his throat. They plan on leaving the tubes in his lungs in the event that they need to use them again that new holes will not have to be made. We rejoiced today so mightily at church, our hearts were so uplifted. Christ Covenant Church is a singing church, and for that I am very thankful. It is good for the soul. Congregational singing is so medicinal. Isaiah looks better tonight. The staples from his wounds were removed and by tomorrow he should be resting even more comfortably. Thank you for your prayers. Terry
My notes: This has been a very difficult week as we pray and pray that each family invoved in the accidents are comforted by God's loving arms. The shock that went through the community is massive. Jeff Geartner was very much loved and the impact he had on the people here was huge. The young lady who lives with me grieves heavily for Jeff's passing as he was her youth pastor, but we have had some really good talks and she is comforted in knowing Jeff is living the high life in heaven. She is only one of so many lives he touched. He will be very much missed. As for Isaiah we pray without ceasing. It seems as though even when I am sleeping the thoughts "Wake up Isaiah, in the name of Jesus, wake up" still run through my mind. I worry about Ashley. She wants to go visit, but I think is not quite ready.
I am worried about so many things, but then I have to remind myself "Be still, and know that I am God"
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Marshall was released from the hospital this morning! Woo hoo! His brother, Forrest, had surgery on his leg yesterday. Jeff's services will be held on Sunday. There is no change in Isaiah's condition. He still does not respond, and the nuerologist said if he hasn't by now, he probably will not. He will likely be having an EEG soon. An EEG (electroencephalogram) is a test that measures brain wave activity. The doctors are unsure of how revealing this will be though. If the brain swelling remains down, they will remove the brain tube and then he will have an MRI of his brain. Pastor Terry says that it seems the family and support crew there are bracing themselves for the long haul. Many extended family members are arriving (about 15 so far). With the family members there, it is getting a bit crowded but the Buck's continue to welcome visitors to be with Isaiah - to talk with him, express their love to him, sing to him, touch him, read Scripture, pray with him, be with him. Please pray now for the Bucks as they are having to be ministers to their fextended family members - even in their own great anguish. It is a difficult strain on them when they are already so drained. Please also pray that the conversations with the family members would point them to Christ - their only hope for salvation - and our only hope. Pray that the Lord would give them strength to share the hope of Christ with them. Please keep praying that even now Isaiah would miraculously wake up and show signs of responsiveness. Keep persevering in hope and pray with faith - believing that God is able, according to His will. Continue to pray for their closest friends who are their ministering to the family members and for Pastor Terry - that the Lord would strengthen them and uphold them - grant them peace and strength that is only from Him and enable them to speak words of comfort and hope to all the family members. Pray also that when they lay their heads down to rest - that the Lord would grant them sleep. Continue to pray that the Lord would enable us to persevere in our prayers for them and that the Holy Spirit would cause our prayers to be effective. Continue to pray that the Lord would enable us to sit tight and wait. Sometimes the updates don't come when we would like because it is wearying for them to tell us that there is no change. We must exercise patience - that would be showing love to do so.Thank you for your perseverance in prayer, hope and faith. The Buck Family feels our prayers and is continuing to trust the Lord in all things.
A side note: Ashley seems to be shutting down. I went home at 1:30 and she was still in bed and crying. So she could use prayer. She leaves to go to Spokane to be with Eric tomorrow for a couple of days. he will comfort her and take care of her well. All she wants is her brother right now.
A side note: Ashley seems to be shutting down. I went home at 1:30 and she was still in bed and crying. So she could use prayer. She leaves to go to Spokane to be with Eric tomorrow for a couple of days. he will comfort her and take care of her well. All she wants is her brother right now.
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Tragedy again
Ok, here is what happened yesterday. First Randy (he works here at the courthouse) got called out to Imnaha for search and rescue. We later found out there was a wreck with 6 kids and one adult. We knew there was one fatality, and they were trying to get Air Life to Dug Bar, but the weather was horrendous and they couldn't get there. During a class at about 6:30 a friend recieved a phone call that it was Jeff Geartner that died. He and Neil Isley had taken a bunch of youth on a "Survivor" trip. Jeff and his wife Heidi live in Jackson Wyoming, but when he was the youth leader here in Enterprise at the Baptist church he would do this trip each year with the kids. This year he made a special trip up to do the Survivor trip and even brought some others from Wyoming. They still hadn't gotten anyone out yet and were trying still to get the Air Life helicopter there. There were several in critical condition. I went home and in my living room were Bethany, Nikkie Bashon, Ashley and Racheal. The girls were laughing and having a great time, so I knew they didn't know about the accident yet. I told Bethany. She was very close to Jeff and Heidi. Then I told the other girls and Racheal said "my brother was on that trip." So she called her dad and he was at the hospital waiting for the ambulance to arrive. It was around 8:30 at that time. He said he thought Jacob was fine because he was in the other vehicle. We also knew then from phone calls that Isaiah Buck, Marshall and Forrest Cox, were also on the trip. Isaiah needed the life flight. And they couldn't get the helicopter there. Forrest was in critical condition. He had a broken leg and lost a ton of blood. Marshall had a broken leg. Neil isley was running around from body to body trying to help. And his good friend, Jeff was dead. Ashley went to the hospital with Justin, her brother. Bethany left shortly after. They arrived at the hospital as the ambulance got there, around 9:30. And found out Jacob Gertz (Racheal's brother) was one of the kids in the truck. Jacob rode the car down the hill..he was knocked unconcious for at least 30 minutes. He had the least amount of injuries. James Hayes needed to be transported to La Grande where he would be life flighted to Boise. Same with a kid named Eddy from Wyoming. Their injuries were more crucial than originally thought. So.....
1. Jeff-dead
2. Isaiah Buck: Life-flighted to the nearest hospital from the scene. He is in Lewiston. has massive head and chest injuries. Didn't think he would make it through the night, but he did. Still unable to breathe on his own. Isaiah has a collapsed lung and tear in other lung. He is on a ventilator. They are currently waiting for the neurologist to arrive to assess his neurological status. He is unconscious which is self-induced and they are waiting for him to wake up. The swelling in his brain remained unchanged overnight. is responding to stimuli - such as a pinch on the toe - even though he is unconscious. The doctors feel that he is strong and that he is fighting. Keep praying specifically about the swelling and bleeding on brain to stop. They are reading scripture to him as the doctors feel that Isaiah can hear them. they are keeping him knocked out so he doesn't move. Doctors were hopeful this morning. But he does have swelling on the brain and bleeding on the brain.
3. Marshall Cox: just a broken leg, keeping him here at this hospital. has 3 breaks in his left leg and damage to his knee
4. Forrest Cox: transported to the hospital in Walla Walla. Lost a lot of blood in broken leg. Will have surgery there. will be having rod placed in leg due to break
5. Eddy from Wyoming: Life flight to boise friend of Jeff Gaertner's from Wyoming, compound fracture. Will probably have surgery or did this morning. Also has internal injuries.
6. James Hayes: Life flighted to Boise compound fracture and broken pelvis -
7. Jacob Gertz: Doing pretty good except the trauma. home with family.
So sad that Jeff died. He made such an impact on the youth in our county. All the kids knew him. Ashley's favorite quote from him is "I don't care if you were baptized in coca cola..just do it!" Ashley was friends with 5 of the 6 kids. She came home and was all cold and clammy and sick, crying until 5 this morning. I am waiting for another update on Isaiah. Hopeful that his youth is working for him and that all the prayers are working. .
Also, Ashley was suppose to go to Albany tomorrow for the Oregon Youth Fine Arts festival. We don't know right now if she will be going. If not I will probably try to get her to Spokane to her brother, Eric. he can help her more than anyone during this time. he is all she wants right now. Ashley plans on going to Enterprise today to visit with Marshall and Jacob. As for the Bucks...well their family has been through so much in the last few weeks. Becky's stepdad died Monday, their pregnant daughter got married and her husband beat her so badly she had broken ribs and they are hiding her from him, Mr. Buck lost his job at the school (he was my boss for 6 years), they have been very sick and now Isaiah is in the hospital and to top it off their cat died today.
So there you have it in a nutshell.
Update: Ashley will be going to Spokane Friday so Eric can take care of her. She just wants to be with her brother. She cries a lot. God's grace is good. Ashley was friends with 5 of the 6 boys and knew Jeff. Her favorite quote from Jeff is "I don't care if you were baptized in coca cola...Just do it!!
I just got an update on Isaiah. It is not positive. The neurologist is very disconcerted because he has shown no signs of improvement nor regained consciousness in the past 24 hrs. Dr says if does not have any change in next 24 hrs then likely will not and all tubes and support systems will be removed. Lord have mercy
1. Jeff-dead
2. Isaiah Buck: Life-flighted to the nearest hospital from the scene. He is in Lewiston. has massive head and chest injuries. Didn't think he would make it through the night, but he did. Still unable to breathe on his own. Isaiah has a collapsed lung and tear in other lung. He is on a ventilator. They are currently waiting for the neurologist to arrive to assess his neurological status. He is unconscious which is self-induced and they are waiting for him to wake up. The swelling in his brain remained unchanged overnight. is responding to stimuli - such as a pinch on the toe - even though he is unconscious. The doctors feel that he is strong and that he is fighting. Keep praying specifically about the swelling and bleeding on brain to stop. They are reading scripture to him as the doctors feel that Isaiah can hear them. they are keeping him knocked out so he doesn't move. Doctors were hopeful this morning. But he does have swelling on the brain and bleeding on the brain.
3. Marshall Cox: just a broken leg, keeping him here at this hospital. has 3 breaks in his left leg and damage to his knee
4. Forrest Cox: transported to the hospital in Walla Walla. Lost a lot of blood in broken leg. Will have surgery there. will be having rod placed in leg due to break
5. Eddy from Wyoming: Life flight to boise friend of Jeff Gaertner's from Wyoming, compound fracture. Will probably have surgery or did this morning. Also has internal injuries.
6. James Hayes: Life flighted to Boise compound fracture and broken pelvis -
7. Jacob Gertz: Doing pretty good except the trauma. home with family.
So sad that Jeff died. He made such an impact on the youth in our county. All the kids knew him. Ashley's favorite quote from him is "I don't care if you were baptized in coca cola..just do it!" Ashley was friends with 5 of the 6 kids. She came home and was all cold and clammy and sick, crying until 5 this morning. I am waiting for another update on Isaiah. Hopeful that his youth is working for him and that all the prayers are working. .
Also, Ashley was suppose to go to Albany tomorrow for the Oregon Youth Fine Arts festival. We don't know right now if she will be going. If not I will probably try to get her to Spokane to her brother, Eric. he can help her more than anyone during this time. he is all she wants right now. Ashley plans on going to Enterprise today to visit with Marshall and Jacob. As for the Bucks...well their family has been through so much in the last few weeks. Becky's stepdad died Monday, their pregnant daughter got married and her husband beat her so badly she had broken ribs and they are hiding her from him, Mr. Buck lost his job at the school (he was my boss for 6 years), they have been very sick and now Isaiah is in the hospital and to top it off their cat died today.
So there you have it in a nutshell.
Update: Ashley will be going to Spokane Friday so Eric can take care of her. She just wants to be with her brother. She cries a lot. God's grace is good. Ashley was friends with 5 of the 6 boys and knew Jeff. Her favorite quote from Jeff is "I don't care if you were baptized in coca cola...Just do it!!
I just got an update on Isaiah. It is not positive. The neurologist is very disconcerted because he has shown no signs of improvement nor regained consciousness in the past 24 hrs. Dr says if does not have any change in next 24 hrs then likely will not and all tubes and support systems will be removed. Lord have mercy
Friday, March 27, 2009
Back to work
Oh yay! I am back to work today! I worked on Monday and then my body crashed. Seems like it needs that every once in awhile. It wasn't really the flu....just a very drained body physically and emotionally.
So I was really depressed and took Tuesday off of work. I was so tired I could barely get out of bed. But I did manage to get my taxes back from the tax man, who let me know I owe thousands of dollars. ya, well the tax people are going to be a little disappointed. Bethany looks at me and she says "Are you going to be ok? You aren't going to (pointing her finger like a gun at her head) "off" yourself are you?" I grabbed a box of brownie mix out of the cupboard and she yells "No,. no! Don't take it out on the brownies! You're sick! You can't eat those!" To which I replied "Watch me" and then ate most of the batch.
I am amazed at how my body reacts to news, be it good or bad. I ended up taking 3 days off of work because it completely nailed me. Worry is not a good thing, broken hearts heal eventually. So I have to go back to the scriptures and try to lift my head, trust in God. And buck up.
I think I might go to Union tonight and visit with my parents. Haven't seen them in a long time. That sounds like a plan, get away from everything. And breathe.
So I was really depressed and took Tuesday off of work. I was so tired I could barely get out of bed. But I did manage to get my taxes back from the tax man, who let me know I owe thousands of dollars. ya, well the tax people are going to be a little disappointed. Bethany looks at me and she says "Are you going to be ok? You aren't going to (pointing her finger like a gun at her head) "off" yourself are you?" I grabbed a box of brownie mix out of the cupboard and she yells "No,. no! Don't take it out on the brownies! You're sick! You can't eat those!" To which I replied "Watch me" and then ate most of the batch.
I am amazed at how my body reacts to news, be it good or bad. I ended up taking 3 days off of work because it completely nailed me. Worry is not a good thing, broken hearts heal eventually. So I have to go back to the scriptures and try to lift my head, trust in God. And buck up.
I think I might go to Union tonight and visit with my parents. Haven't seen them in a long time. That sounds like a plan, get away from everything. And breathe.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
The "Sound off" apology
Ok, well my last blog was a pretty good sound off. I had a frustrating three days and it seemed like so many people were coming down hard on me, including one dork threatening to commit suicide over me. I gave him a peice of my mind and he didn't die though.I am definately my mothers daughter. Telling someone off when they want to die. I get so tired of the games people play and the judging. And yet really there are so many wonderful people out there. They just didn't happen to show face during my bad time! So anyway, I apologize for being a little stinky! It will probably happen again though............................LOL
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Divorce
Yesterday I went to the electric store to get help with a hot water heater. My hot water is ..well, there is none. So off I go to see the electrician to find out which part he wants me to order. I walk in and the person I need to see is not in. So the old fart (I can call him that because I have known him since I was a little girl and he truly is an old fart) that was in started to take my name down and phone number. He starts writing "jackie parker" then he stops and says "Oh, the divorced one." I was a little stunned, so I stumbled on my words "uh yes. I'm divorced.............." And i am thinking "but, well, I do have an identity. really, I do. I'm a person....I have feelings....sometimes a thought or two slips through not that anyone really cares to hear what those thoughts are. And...oh! I don't have leprosy! So that's good. .............." "Uhmm...ya. I'm the divorced one," I finished with a whisper.......... Not that he was paying any attention. he was scribbling on the paper complaining about the "god damn people around here". So I said a very quick goodbye and ran out the door. It's so weird to go through a divorce. So painful and people who have never experienced it stand in judgement as though THEY KNOW. The anger and emails I recieved during and after my divorce from Christians became pretty regular. Things have kind of settled down lately, so this incident kind of shell shocked me. People don't realize what it is like for me to go to church. Truly I would rather stay at home alone than go to a church and be so lonely. To me the church is the loneliest place on earth for someone like me. People think I don't go to church, but I have quite a few times. I have gone to the Crossing about 4 times since my divorce. I can assure you those people would not remember I graced their doors. I have been to John and Sandy's church and to the Baptist church a few times. And then there is the times I go to Wallowa for special things the kids are involved in. Sometimes it can be quite amusing. People run to me and even start crying...gushing about how they have been thinking about me and have missed me so much! I'm like "Gosh, I must have missed that phone call." Others in the church look at you like you have some disease. The women stay away from you because you are "the divorced one" and they seem to think you are so pathetic that you are desperate for a man so you must be out to get their man. What they don't realize is that you really want NO MAN at all. The men of course don't talk to you because well...you are the "divorced one". The greeting time is the worst time. Usually I stand there and very few come up and the ones who do say a quick "Hi how are you" and run the other direction. Wow, thought they wanted to know how I was. And the truth is, no one really wants to know how you are. Now, don't get me wrong, not everyone is like that. I can think of all of two ladies in the church at Wallowa who genuinly care about me. One of those ladies stops by my office and visits sometimes. She loves unconditionally. So really isn't that what it is all about? To love one another unconditionally. I watch the church, they have their little potlucks and close the door to the "sinners" out there. The very thought of stepping foot in a building with people who judge me makes my stomach nauseated. When I went through the divorce the church literally turned on me. It wasn't the church that was there for me, loving me. It was the world. It wasn't the church that was there helping me when everything in my house: heater, dishwasher, dryer, hot water tank, ceiling fan, faucet and plumbing went capoot all in one month. It was the world. It wasn't the church who has helped me everytime my car or lawn mower has broke down. It has been my friends from the world. It has been my friends from the world who have called me and said "come over Jackie! We WANT to hang out with you!" yep, we hang out in the bars. It is like that old tv show Cheers. When I walk in the door the whole bar yells "Jackson!" and they run and give me hugs. I am accepted there and loved. my friends love me no matter how messed up I am. I don't have to put on a show anymore. I can just be me. I probably could have won an Academy Award for the act I put on for 23 years in the church. Pretending our family was so perfect. Until it nearly killed me. And when it nearly killed me and I found my husband really didn't care, that is when I knew it was time. And so here I am a simple counrty girl. I don't talk theology with people. I don't know important facts in life. I am just me. yet I do believe I see so much more in life that those who think they are so far above me, those who look down their noses at me and judge me. Woe to them I say. I believe that if Jesus came down from heaven, he would would be spending his time with the hurting people. The ones who are so messed up. The meth addict who can't see past the next fix. The single mom who can barely make it through the day without the tears. The divorced. The young lady who made a mistake and got pregnant. The alchoholic that sits in the bar all day drinking his troubles away. The rebellious teenager. The ones who the church sits in judgement of. That is who Jesus wants to hold. I seriously doubt he would waste his time sitting with the church arguing theology and rules. Honestly, I think he would just tell them "Love your people". And so last night I found out that Ashley is not suppose to be in school at Providence. Apparently the rules have changed. Just for me? Wow, I am so blessed with love from the Chrisitans. It use to be that only one parent had to be involved in a church. I can give you lists of names that was the case for. But lucky me! Not only has the church turned their faces from me, now the school is. Since I am not involved in a church, they have to reconsider if Ashley can be there. I do not live my life according to their standards. For some reason my sins are worse than theirs. I wonder if Christians realize how often they reject people. And then the Christians wonder why people like me don't want to spend time with them. yep, I will take the friends from the world anyday! Because they love me unconditionally. I do not have to perform for them. I can just be me and they will help me heal. Because I have lived so many years of horror that none can imagine. And I have some healing to do. And the Christians here just aren't available. But my friends from the world are.
Friday, January 30, 2009
...."Though much is taken, much abides" Alfred, Lord Tennyson
Wow, what a week. Not only do we have a murder trial going on (Both sides are pretty wacked people) over 2 cows, but our office has been like walking on egg shells. I feel so bad for my co-worker, Anne. This week I have been the favored one while she has been treated horribly. Anne is such a tender hearted sweet person. And who knows, next week she might be the favored one and it will be my turn to take the heat.
My hot water heater broke down and we had a couple of days with freezing water while I debated calling an electrician. So I was at my computer googling "Hot water heater doesn't heat the water" and I layed my head down on the keyboard and said "Oh Lord, heal my hot water heater!" Then I went out to the breaker box and once again flipped the breaker. It worked this time!! Woo hoo! Thank ya Lord!
Last weekend I took Bethany and Ashley to Lagrande to get new hair do's. Ashley was driving on the way and I was in the passenger seat. So off we go up the Minam hill and there is a rock, a HUGE rock on our side of the road. So I say "Ashley, don't hit that rock." And there was silence on the other side of the car. And I know at that moment this was not going to be good. I looked over and she was concentrating so I knew she was going to try to straddle the rock rather than go around it. Silence.................Then crash, bounce crash, bounce, and she says "Do you think I hit it?"
I said "why yes, (trying to stay calm) Ashley, I think you did." and she says "What happens now?" And I reply (Still calm) "Well within 15 seconds that tire is going to go flat so prepare yourself to pull over" And it is silent again in the car as we wait...............and all we can hear is Ashley saying "I'm sorry, I'm sorry" in this little squeeky voice. Sure enough the noise of a flat comes loud and clear and we pull over, get the spare on (while Ashley is crying her eyes out) and head for LaGrande and good ole Les Schwab. All the way I am trying to reassure Ashley that this happens, it has happened to me, it is no big deal, etc. and I can't figure out why she keeps crying. So we get to Les Schwab and they put on a different tire (they had a used studded tire just my size!) and so as we wait I keep telling Ashley it is ok. What I didn't realize is that Bethany, who is the biggest tease and prankster in the world, had sort of told Ashley that a new tire would be over $1,000.00 while we were on the hill changing the tire to a spare!
Well the tire was free (gotta love those little cutie patooties at Les Scwab!) and I re-assured Ashley that it still would not have been over $1,000 even if I would have bought a new tire, and she felt better. And gave Bethany a look that would kill. Then the girls went off to get their new haircuts!
Well, then I got to worrying about my car. The rock made quite a clatter under there, in fact I originally thought the back tire went over the rock too. So two good friends took my car yesterday to a heated shop and put it up on the racks and checked it over really good to make sure there was no more damage under it. And it was fine! So woo hoo! I was so thankful for that! They also took it to Les Schwab and got air put in the other three tires. Checked my oil, said it was good for another thousand miles. So I am so thankful for good friends! These two guys are my dad's age and they are loving having a "daughter" to take care of.
So even with disasters, blessings have come along and everything is fine. Oh! but Jerry did tell me something interesting...so Wallowa County!
While he was at Les Schwab getting my tires filled with air there was a girl there that had just bought a used car from Milligan's. She was there to get winter tires put on. The boys from Les Schwab opened her trunk and there was a bomb inside it! So they call the police and they come down, the lady insists she needs her car, so the police take out the bomb and take it to the back of Les Schwab and call the bomb squad from Pendleton. Well, as it turns out, it was a practical joke. It was a cylinder looking part that was replaced and someone in the shop wrote on it "ACME Dynamite" as a joke. Good thing our police have a sense of humor.......................
AND YES, Eric does have a serious girlfriend.............................
My hot water heater broke down and we had a couple of days with freezing water while I debated calling an electrician. So I was at my computer googling "Hot water heater doesn't heat the water" and I layed my head down on the keyboard and said "Oh Lord, heal my hot water heater!" Then I went out to the breaker box and once again flipped the breaker. It worked this time!! Woo hoo! Thank ya Lord!
Last weekend I took Bethany and Ashley to Lagrande to get new hair do's. Ashley was driving on the way and I was in the passenger seat. So off we go up the Minam hill and there is a rock, a HUGE rock on our side of the road. So I say "Ashley, don't hit that rock." And there was silence on the other side of the car. And I know at that moment this was not going to be good. I looked over and she was concentrating so I knew she was going to try to straddle the rock rather than go around it. Silence.................Then crash, bounce crash, bounce, and she says "Do you think I hit it?"
I said "why yes, (trying to stay calm) Ashley, I think you did." and she says "What happens now?" And I reply (Still calm) "Well within 15 seconds that tire is going to go flat so prepare yourself to pull over" And it is silent again in the car as we wait...............and all we can hear is Ashley saying "I'm sorry, I'm sorry" in this little squeeky voice. Sure enough the noise of a flat comes loud and clear and we pull over, get the spare on (while Ashley is crying her eyes out) and head for LaGrande and good ole Les Schwab. All the way I am trying to reassure Ashley that this happens, it has happened to me, it is no big deal, etc. and I can't figure out why she keeps crying. So we get to Les Schwab and they put on a different tire (they had a used studded tire just my size!) and so as we wait I keep telling Ashley it is ok. What I didn't realize is that Bethany, who is the biggest tease and prankster in the world, had sort of told Ashley that a new tire would be over $1,000.00 while we were on the hill changing the tire to a spare!
Well the tire was free (gotta love those little cutie patooties at Les Scwab!) and I re-assured Ashley that it still would not have been over $1,000 even if I would have bought a new tire, and she felt better. And gave Bethany a look that would kill. Then the girls went off to get their new haircuts!
Well, then I got to worrying about my car. The rock made quite a clatter under there, in fact I originally thought the back tire went over the rock too. So two good friends took my car yesterday to a heated shop and put it up on the racks and checked it over really good to make sure there was no more damage under it. And it was fine! So woo hoo! I was so thankful for that! They also took it to Les Schwab and got air put in the other three tires. Checked my oil, said it was good for another thousand miles. So I am so thankful for good friends! These two guys are my dad's age and they are loving having a "daughter" to take care of.
So even with disasters, blessings have come along and everything is fine. Oh! but Jerry did tell me something interesting...so Wallowa County!
While he was at Les Schwab getting my tires filled with air there was a girl there that had just bought a used car from Milligan's. She was there to get winter tires put on. The boys from Les Schwab opened her trunk and there was a bomb inside it! So they call the police and they come down, the lady insists she needs her car, so the police take out the bomb and take it to the back of Les Schwab and call the bomb squad from Pendleton. Well, as it turns out, it was a practical joke. It was a cylinder looking part that was replaced and someone in the shop wrote on it "ACME Dynamite" as a joke. Good thing our police have a sense of humor.......................
AND YES, Eric does have a serious girlfriend.............................
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Ashley's Band: Wake Up Jane
These are photos of Ashley band, Wake Up Jane. Ashley is the lead singer, Elliott plays that guitar looking thing, Leanna on drums, and Joella on keyboard......
Friday, January 16, 2009
Another Scripture Slam
The other night my brother became very sick. It was a very scary thing and I am still not sure what the whole story is. I only talked to my mom and her story was quite confusing. So I went on my Myspace and Facebook and asked for prayer. People from all over the USA were praying. I posted on my message boards. Total strangers prayed and are still praying according to their messages for continued healing. I love my brother and it was a difficult, sleepless night. I just had to wait for phone calls. But I still felt a peace when Tammy was driving him tp Tri-Cities that God was with them and that everything would be ok. God is so good, he is so faithful. So here are scriptures I am holding onto and reading these days....
Let us go right into the presence of God with sincere hearts fully trusting Him...Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep His promise.
But I trust in your unfailing love. I will rejoice because you have rescued me.
~ Psalm 13:5, NLT
So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive His mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.
~ Hebrews 4:16, NLT
The Lord is like a father to His children, tender and compassionate to those who fear Him.
~ Psalm 103:13, NLT
Give all your worries and cares to God, for He cares about you.
~ 1 Peter 5:7, NLT
Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me.
~ John 14:1, NLT
Ask me and I will tell you remarkable secrets you do not know about things to come.
~ Jeremiah 33:3, NLT
I took my troubles to the Lord; I cried out to Him, and He answered my prayer.
~ Psalm 120:1, NLT
Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life.
~ Proverbs 4:23, NLT
O my people, trust in him at all times. Pour out your heart to him, for God is our refuge.
~ Psalm 62:8, NLT
"No, O people, the Lord has already told you what is good, and this is what He requires: to do what is right, to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God."
~ Micah 6:8, NLT
"Whoever pursues godliness and unfailing love will find life, godliness and honor."
~ Proverbs 21:21, NLT
Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a dream fulfilled is a tree of life.
~ Proverbs 13:12, NLT
Let us go right into the presence of God with sincere hearts fully trusting Him...Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep His promise.
But I trust in your unfailing love. I will rejoice because you have rescued me.
~ Psalm 13:5, NLT
So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive His mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.
~ Hebrews 4:16, NLT
The Lord is like a father to His children, tender and compassionate to those who fear Him.
~ Psalm 103:13, NLT
Give all your worries and cares to God, for He cares about you.
~ 1 Peter 5:7, NLT
Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me.
~ John 14:1, NLT
Ask me and I will tell you remarkable secrets you do not know about things to come.
~ Jeremiah 33:3, NLT
I took my troubles to the Lord; I cried out to Him, and He answered my prayer.
~ Psalm 120:1, NLT
Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life.
~ Proverbs 4:23, NLT
O my people, trust in him at all times. Pour out your heart to him, for God is our refuge.
~ Psalm 62:8, NLT
"No, O people, the Lord has already told you what is good, and this is what He requires: to do what is right, to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God."
~ Micah 6:8, NLT
"Whoever pursues godliness and unfailing love will find life, godliness and honor."
~ Proverbs 21:21, NLT
Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a dream fulfilled is a tree of life.
~ Proverbs 13:12, NLT
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Voice of Democracy contest
Ashley and her classmates at the Voice of Democracy contest. Anna took first place and Ashley took 2nd for the whole county!
Friday, January 9, 2009
Such a tough week
It has been a very difficult week. Starting with church on Sunday. I went because Ashley was going to be singing a song that she wrote. But it was just so hard to have Linda F. sitting in the chair right in front of me. Yes, I admit, I did give her a look that shot arrows through her torso and heart when she looked at me. Might not be so nice of me, but trust me, that lady behaves like a whore in church and she best leave my daughter alone. using Ashley to get to Pat just makes me.......well.....the English temper does fly................
Then mom and dad came over and that was nice...settled me down a bit.
Monday started a week from hell at work. Meetings with the commissioners, an investigation, the union, oh man. It has been awful. I am not allowed to talk about any of it to anyone..(I do talk to my co-worker since she is also involved). But if it continues, my life on the job will be worse than it is now. So stomach in knots all week, lots of tantrums from the boss and lies, meetings with the upper ups, worries about my job and Annes..............
And dealing with the disasters that upset a small town. Deaths of people who have been here forever. Reports of those we love who have been diagnosed with terminal illnesses. Accidents that have claimed the lives of those who we love. Shock. Lack of Understanding. Why so much heartache in so little time? in a months time we have lost not just the old people but so many young ones. So many. And then the divorces and affairs.
So this week I have had some pretty stressful times, where I just have to take a deep breath and remember God is in control, but he won't always control. He will allow disasters and consequenses of our choices. But he is still IN control. He allows as he sees fit. He allows because He sees the bigger picture. So I just hold on for the ride and take a deep breath. Ok, sometimes I do have a screaming tantrum..........But God is good. He might be covering his ears................but he is faithful.
Then mom and dad came over and that was nice...settled me down a bit.
Monday started a week from hell at work. Meetings with the commissioners, an investigation, the union, oh man. It has been awful. I am not allowed to talk about any of it to anyone..(I do talk to my co-worker since she is also involved). But if it continues, my life on the job will be worse than it is now. So stomach in knots all week, lots of tantrums from the boss and lies, meetings with the upper ups, worries about my job and Annes..............
And dealing with the disasters that upset a small town. Deaths of people who have been here forever. Reports of those we love who have been diagnosed with terminal illnesses. Accidents that have claimed the lives of those who we love. Shock. Lack of Understanding. Why so much heartache in so little time? in a months time we have lost not just the old people but so many young ones. So many. And then the divorces and affairs.
So this week I have had some pretty stressful times, where I just have to take a deep breath and remember God is in control, but he won't always control. He will allow disasters and consequenses of our choices. But he is still IN control. He allows as he sees fit. He allows because He sees the bigger picture. So I just hold on for the ride and take a deep breath. Ok, sometimes I do have a screaming tantrum..........But God is good. He might be covering his ears................but he is faithful.
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