February 15

Though it's hard to tell with the drifting, I'm guessing we got about 10 to 12 inches of snow here. I'm hearing from my family to the south that other parts of the state got ice. We just got the white fluffy stuff, and then more of it thanks to the lake effect. But no ice save for what packed up on the roads.

I was back with Barbara today and we shared a belated Valentines meal together. Or sort of. Anyway, it was nice being back together after a couple of days apart.

She is moving her arms a bit better, but has yet to develop the dexterity to do basic tasks with her hands.

Here's the biggest news of the day - she had her trache removed. It was remarkably quick and painless.

We may also be back on track to go to RIC. Insurance is beginning to become a bit of an issue at this point, as she is now using up non-regenerating lifetime days on Medicare. She has about 55 days left, and then they will pay no more, I understand.

So, pray that she will be moved quickly to RIC, and that recovery will speed right along, at long last,

Pray that there are no subsequent infections and a quick healing from the trache wound,

Continue to pray for healing of the massive head wound from the debridement,

And give plenty of thanks to God for how great He is, regardless of our circumstances.

February 13 - Snowed In

Please keep Barbara in your prayers especially today. I am at home today due to the snow storm we're experiencing. We talked about this possibility yesterday, and she wanted me to stay home in such a circumstances as this.

However, upon speaking to her on the phone earlier, she told me that she is extremely bored and that this day has already seemed endlessly long. Please pray that:

- God will send staff people to comfort her,

- The staff will be attentive to her and help set up audio books or movies as needed,

- That she will rest,

- That her mind will be occupied with good things.

Thanks for your prayers today!

February 12 - Waiting For Snow, Walking On Ice

At least the forecast isn't for 10 feet of snow. However, if the weather goonies are correct, we'll be blanketed with snow coupled with blizzard conditions tomorrow morning.

I have been stepping carefully these days, fearful of the ice. I feel the same way emotionally, as does Barbara. The longevity of this is really smacking us hard upside the head right now.

There's not a whole lot new to report. Barbara did have a wonderful weekend, and seemed to be a bit better emotionally. Today, however, she was quite down again, and that always effects me as well.

Thankfully, her vitals have been pretty good.

She is very upset that they're now giving her liquid nutrition directly into the stomach around the clock, since she's not eating enough.

We have yet to hear from RIC as to when the move will take place. You will be the first to know. OK, maybe not the first, but I'm sure you can deal with that!

Stay warm.