Twanky Intestines

Hi it's really me today, Kathleen brought my computer up to the hospital and I was able to get into their wifi after a couple of password changes.
The surgeon Dr. Schlaefer was in to see me this a.m. and he ordered a CTscan which I have already had. He had seen the xray I had yesterday, but he said it was hard to determine the cause with an xray, but that the CTscan would be much better. So we'll see what that brings, he thinks that if it is scar tissue, it could be taken care of by the method they are using right now....resting the intestines....which means nothing by mouth for a few days. They have me attached to an IV pole, for fluids, and they have given me antinausea meds and something to settle my stomach. So for right now it's just a rest and wait treatment. Thanks for all the thoughts and prayers, I don't know what I'd do without all of you. Love, m

No Chemo Today

This is Kathleen, subbing for Mary, writing to report on today's planned trip to the cancer treatment center for Mary's first chemo round. We arrived early as Mary has had a very uncomfortable two days of intestinal distention and vomiting. The doctor saw Mary and ordered an xray of her intestinal area and found that she has some partial blockages there. Consequently, he cancelled today's chemo (as chemo could potentially cause more intestinal distress) and put her in the hospital for a few days to rehydrate her and give her intestines some time to calm down, and she will not have any food or water by mouth until it is resolved. She is doing much better tonight as she has had some IV fluids today and some anti-nausea medication this evening. The partial blockage(s) are not likely cancer, but rather probably due to a flare-up Mary experienced from meds she had a couple of weeks ago at Mayo to prep her for a colonoscopy..... these meds gave Mary a bad reaction of constant vomiting, and may have left her intestines inflammed. It is also possible that the cause of the partial blockage is due to scar tissue............tomorrow Mary will meet with her doctors and maybe we'll have more news to report as to what is actually going on...........in any case, she's much better tonight and she will be waiting a few more days, or possibly a week, before they begin her first chemo round.
Keep those prayers coming..............they are much appreciated.
Kathleen

Sun is Shining and Warming Up

I'm sure the warmup has something to do with Kathleen arriving today. I'm so excited. I'm feeling great! Got a lovely card yesterday from Elaine (along with about 3 emails we exchanged) But I loved what the front said, so I wanted to share it with you. "May your day be brightened by the loving thoughts this brings. And may the angels brush away your cares with gentle wings." My day was brightened.
Did anyone see the full moon last nite? It was so gorgeous, just hope it doesn't bring strange things with it. I wonder what trouble Kathleen and I can get into? Hope you all have a good day, glad to hear Frank is holding his own. Love, m

Franks new CaringBridge website

Dear Mary,

A new journal entry for Frank Vermeulen's CaringBridge website was posted at 9:02:00 PM on Jan 29, 2010.

Read the latest update and show your support at: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/frankv

Cold but Sunny

Good Morning, not a lot to report, but I did hear from Judy late last night, and she too wants to thank all of you for the prayers, as Frank seems to be getting better. I also got some wonderful phone calls yesterday, from some who don't have email, and just checking up on me, and some who do, and just wanted to visit. It was my son Bill's birthday yesterday, and I had a nice long talk with him, and then my neice Jessie called as her husband Paulo has the same birthday. I also got several old fashion greating cards, sent by snail mail, and lovely notes from my neice Blair and Mary Lou Mathoweitz. I also got an email from Imelda Neis, one of the printers wives and great friend who is also undergoing chemo at this time at the same clinic I am, however her treatments are on Thursdays and mine on Mondays, but we hope to bump into each other there some time in the near future. I also have her on my prayer list.
Late yesterday afternoon, I went to the movie "It's Complicated" with my friends Bonnie Sass and Lois Bjerke, and laughed our butts off. Great medicine. However, I had to say goodbye to Bonnie for the next two months as she left this morning for Sedona (the luck). She will be soaking up all the sun and sending it in my direction. Maybe, I'll get to spend a week with her. But for sure I am going to Florida the end of March, I sent in my payment yesterday. Not only will I have sunshine there, but lots of family and friends. I can't wait.
Today, I need to go shopping for Bill's birthday present and some food to make him, and the rest of the family, dinner on Sunday. So that said, I better get dressed and get going. Love and prayers, m

The Sun is Shining Today

The sun really is shining today. I'm feeling great too! It's amazing how much better I feel when the sun is shining. Let's hope the sun is shining on Frank. The report this morning, is they have him kind of in an induced coma, or totally out, and will remain that way for a couple of days....so at least he isn't in pain. They were unable to get a central line in last nite, so they will consider a port today. He is on a vent, his lung hasn't inflated yet, and he does have a fractured rib and a new fracture of a vertebrae in his lower back. So it's real serious, and we need to say some serious prayers for him and his family. (For those of you who don't know Frank....he is the husband of my cousin Judy, and he was battling lung problems back when I had my big cancer scare in 1996...they eventually did a lung transplant on one lung, and then a few years ago, they also did a kidney transplant from his daughter Cathy. He is continually on anti rejection medications and has of late had to be on oxygen continually....yet he still keeps fighting back....they had planned on spending the winter in California with their daughter and family till this happened, and Cathy jumped in the car and helped drive them back home in that horrid weather last weekend, and then turned around and flew home to her 3 kids.) Love, thoughts and prayers, m

Came through with Flying Colors

I'm home and feeling good. Everything went well, I don't even remember anything including leaving the prep room and entering the operating room, I was so out. Came home ate some toast and took a nap. Have talked to Annie, Kathleen, Tom, Karen and Janet, and figured I better update this blog so you all know how well I am.....on the other hand cousin Frank has been moved to ICU and is on a ventilator. Tomorrow they will go in and try to get the lung to inflat and remove any fluids in his lungs. He's the one who needs the prayers today. Janet had planed on spending the evening and nite with me....but she now is sick....and if better tomorrow she will be spending the day with Judy at the hospital. So.....don't worry about me tonite, just say a prayer for Frank and Judy. Love, m

P.S. Wyn (another former student worker) stopped in and visited with me before my surgery today...funny how all of a sudden so many of my former studentworkers have come back into my life.

Today's the Day!

Getting ready to go to the hospital to get my port inserted, so I'll be ready for chemo to start next Monday. My friend Bonnie Sass is going to spend the day with me at the hospital, and then our favorite cousin Janet is coming to spend the evening with me....as they don't want me to be alone for 12 hours.....I'll try and update you later this afternoon and let you know how I'm doing. m

Look for the Silver Lining and the Sun will Shine Through

Getting ready for the port to be inserted tomorrow....Bonnie Sass has agreed to take me and sit there till I'm done....I hope she has a good book...for Bonnie that shouldn't be a problem. The sun is now shining here in Coon Rapids. I think that is a good sign. I guess the power of all your prayers must be working.
Kathleen suggested that while she is here next week, she and Janet could clean my house and make it SPOTless....but I told her that would be a reach. Not that I think they couldn't do a great job....but it would take more than one cleaning.
I so enjoy reading your responses to my blog, and emails etc. Keep up the good work, Love ya, m

Finally Got the Show on the Road!

Jimbo came with me this a.m. to see Dr. Londer, and we now have officially got an appointment to start chemo next Monday morning at 9:00 a.m. I then came home and talked to Dr. Schlaefer (who Londer talked to while I was at his office) and he is now in the process of setting up a time to have my port inserted. He hopes to do it tomorrow or Wednesday, so I'll be all set for next Monday. (That now is set for Wednesday at 1:15 p.m. at North Memorial....may need someone to drive me to that.) The surgery will be done as an outpatient.....they make me drowsy but not really out. The port is totally under the skin unlike the catheter that I had problems with 14 years ago, so I think that will work much better, and they told me it has a lot less chance of infection. So that relieved my concerns about that....I also mentioned to both doctors the concern over the adhesive tapes etc. and Dr. Schlaefer promised not to put steri strips on the incision. I also mentioned to Londer about all my intestinal problems I've had since that "moviprep" episode, and he felt my tummy, and said he didn't feel any problems, so it's just still sore from all the vomiting and cramping I had. Also....my blood pressure was a little high (140/80) but nothing like it was last week at Mayo. So here we go!!!
This morning Joe and Sandi requested a spot, and they now officially have #54, and I just got a call that Frank and Judy are back home, evidently Frank tripped over his oxygen cord and fell into a kitchen Island and has 3 compress fractures in his vertabrae....I'm sure Judy will update us all on that soon. m

Good Sunday Morning!

COCK A DOODLE DOO!
I am a Jew
Jesus is my name
And I am known for my fame
Healer of the sick, the lame and the blind
I will make the cancer go and your lungs will be just fine.
Still looking for the sun, but found this in my morning email from Janet:

COCK A DOODLE DOO!
Make that spot be a Jew
Let it think it has strength like me
For I am the King of Kings
All who believe in me will be set free

That spot has no power
That spot has no fame
I condemn that spot to 12 Hail Mary’s
And to never return again

Cock A Doodle Doo
I sing this song for you

So who need sunshine when I have all of you sending great poems, prayers and love.

Today I'm going to church, then out for breakfast with friends, then possibly a hockey game of granddaughter Allies, then off to Jimbo and Ann's to watch the Vikings beat the Saints. Also continue to celebrate Nicks birthday, Today is the real birthday, even thou he has been celebrating all weekend.
Tomorrow is the day I see Dr. Londer and get this show on the road. Love you all, m

You Make Me Happy When Days are Gray!

The following poem was sent by Janet....she's crowing hard to get rid of her spot.

COCK A DOODLE DOOOOO!!!!
This poem is for you
Stomp out my spot and make it go away
For today is a great day
No spot of mine will stay!

COCK A DOODLE DOOOOO!!!!
This is my crow
I send my spot with a hearty throw
Go SPOT Go, See SPOT Fly
Now out of here and don’t return
Don’t even try!

Then I got this email from Denise Groll:
Hi Mary: I have tried to post a comment on your blog and haven't been successful, so I'll send the request in this email and cc my family, so we're all in it together.

On behalf of the Ed Schieber kids and significant others, I'm requesting 6 spots that we can adopt and our efforts will be to "shout them out"! Something like, "get out of there you stupid spot"! You have been such an inspiration and I appreciate your sharing of your thoughts/experiences as you graciously fight the battle.

Sending love and a big hug. Denise

Thank you so much, I am assuming Diane, Deb, Dar, Denise, Ed and Kelly right? I have had so much fun adopting out these spots, I guess you guys get #'s 45-50 wow! I don't know if my lungs have 50, but who's counting. They'll all be gone in a flash!! Love you all, m


I had a wonderful time yesterday with qigong, lunch and birthday party. Being around so many loving, caring family and friends really energizes me. But the rain and gloom outside makes me sing: Rain, Rain go away, come again another day!...and I continue to need your sunshine on days like today!!! m

P.S. found this in yesterdays comments:Hi Mary, Pandora and I would like to know if you have any spots left. If you do we would like two, We would not want the one to be lonely. By the way I here spots make good fish bait. I am taking the boat out so I will drop them to the bottom of the ocean. I will let you know what happened. Love Mike and Pandora So I'm giving them 51 and 52. Thanks again, Love m

Extravagant Grace Extravagent Love

Good Morning, I spent last evening at church for a Chocolate Retreat for Women. The evening was filled with dinner, chocolate in many forms, journaling, reflection, song and prayer. We ended with the song, Extravagant Grace, and the words "Taste and see that the Lord is good. He is gracious and compassionate. Slow to anger and rich in love. Extravagant grace flows down, Extravagant love all around. I can taste it. I can touch it. Its' like chocolate to my soul". We talked about turning our problems over to God and trusting he would take care of them.....You all know I did that in early December, and I have been lavished with love and support by my family and friends. I have an army of you praying for my spots. (by the way Jackie Patton took #43 this morning) I am at peace and know that God will carry me through this next period of my life. So it was so appropriate to celebrate God's grace last night with a group of women (some of whom are proud spot adopters). The last reflection question was "How can we reflect the grace God has lavished upon us so others see it when they look at us?".....I hope my smile, my laughter, and my love for all of you will continue to do this.
Today, I am going to have a Qigong session (energy healing) and then lunch with my former boss and great friend Rosie, along with a former boss of sorts and dear friend Brenda Dickenson. They both were with me through my first bouts of cancer....and I am so happy to have them with me now. Love, Thoughts and Prayers, m

Finally saw the Wizard! and he's mixing a Brew for me.

Well, I'm back home and have a much better picture of what is going to happen now. This doctor was very good at explaining the plan etc. They will use FOLFOX which is short for the group of drugs they will be using. He said it would be administered with a port and a pump for 48 hours once every 2 weeks for 4 sessions, and then they would have me come back to Mayo for a scan to see how it is responding to it. If spots are gone, they could stop till they start growing again, or if not, they would go with another 4 sessions administered the same as the first. He said this drug regimen does not make you lose your hair, but some people will have some thinning of hair. (Who knows in my care I never do anything normal) He did say that the most common side effect is Diarrhea (which would be nothing new for me) and controlled with Imodium (also not new to me) He said they have had a lot of success with this recipe, and felt that I was starting out strong and that was in my favor. He reiterated that it will not be cured even if the spots disappear, (they would just be dormant) but that it was very treatable. He took Dr. Londers name and fax number and said he would contact him before the week was up, as I told him that I had an appointment with Londer on Monday. So I am assuming things will start pretty quickly on Monday, and should be finished with the first 4 sessions by April. He also said these things could all be worked around vacations etc. So exact dates don't exist. But I plan on making the trip to Disney with the gang on Easter break for District 11 the end of March. So for now, we'll see what Monday brings.....keep those prayers going on those spots....with the army of spot adopters, I should have this made in the shade!!

Didn't see the Wizard....just a Surgeon!

We didn't really learn anything new today, kinda anticlimactic! We thought Dr. Nelson was going to give me the plan on what they were going to do with me, and she only agreed with all the doctors I've seen in the last week, that she would not do surgery, as long as it is now in my lung as well. So now when I drive down in the morning, I will see the chemo doctor, and supposedly that doctor will give me the recipe of what chemo to use, but then I have to go back to the Humphrey Cancer Center at North Memorial, and see my doctor there....I've already made an appointment for next Monday....and then hopefully soon they will start treating the cancer. We (my kids) and I are kind of thinking it was all a waste of time and money. When we could have started chemo a month ago.
I did adopt out another spot today, Rita Culshaw has taken number 36. Poor Janet has to come over and get me tomorrow morning at 5:30 so we can be at Mayo by 8 for the appointment with the chemo doctor. Hopefully the last trip to Rochester in a while. I'm not disappointed about that!

Off to See the Wizard!

Today is the big day! I get to see the Surgeon, Dr. Heidi Nelson, and get a summary of all the tests and doctors I've seen. I am waiting for Annie and Jimbo to come and pick me up for the trip to Rochester. Have a 10 a.m. appointment to see a Radiologist at and then wait around till 2:30 when we have the big meeting to hear the plan for my future. I have no doubt that all of you will do your part and taking care of those adopted spots, so now we'll see what the doctors will do. I will update later this evening. It's a foggy morning, kinda appropriate. Till then, hope for Sunshine! Love, m

Response for spots it overwhelming!

I missed Karen's comment about wanting a spot....so she get's #31. You all have been so wonderful...jumping at the chance to help me....I can feel the love and energy entering my lungs and turning those spots into beautiful butterflies and flying away into the sunset! That's my visualization during my meditation prayers....I know it is working! Thank you all, and anyone who didn't get a spot....I still have plenty numbers to give away! Love, m
P.S. Thanks cousin Karen for thinking this amazing idea. m

Out Damn Spot!

Hi Mary,

I want to claim one of your spots. I'm going to name it Shakespeare and and cuss "Out damn spot!" at it.

I was so surprised to read the news from your Mayo visit. I admire your attitude so much.

Lots of prayers for your healing!
Cindy

Cindy, I think you get spot #20 and a gold star for the best prayer so far!!! Love ya, m

MARY YOU CAN GIVE SHARON AND I ONE OF THOSE DARN SPOTS, WE WILL SAY MANY PRAYERS TO GIVE YOU THE ENERGY YOU NEED AND A LOT OF SUNSHINE. COUSIN ED They get #21

My friend Jan Ranum has taken #22 and Cherie Gardner and Barb Skierecki, have take #23 and they have named it Maxine (first one that has a real name!) but I still need to do adoption papers for them, then Kathleen has taken #24-30 for her family, Gary, Eric, Nathan, Blair and Jessie and Paulo. So the original number I came up with are all taken, however.....this was a guess, and the number could be 50?????? so I will continue to adopt out spots as long as people want them. Whatever it takes to get rid of them.
Got this email back from Jeanie, who adopted unlucky #13:
It said #13 for me in your blog, so I am considering myself the lucky one! #13 spot is the unlucky one and is on it's way, ta ta.

I look forward to the blog daily and have tried to post a comment, but have not yet succeeded. The communication coming from you is outstanding for all of us to keep up with you.

In order to post a blog, you have to click on the green comment at the bottom of each posting, sign in, and that is basically giving them your name and email address....wards off strangers we hope....but you give yourself a password as well and then the next time you go to post a comment you just signin with your password....I think. You can also become a follower, and they will email you with updates to my blog. So it's a pretty friendly blogspot. They don't send you junk mail or anything like that....and it's free.

Love & prayers for your energy to take charge, Jeanie

Here Comes the Sun!

As I was leaving church, I came upon Darrell Turner (A pillar of the church) and as I greated him, he said "Here comes the sun" and I knew he was right!
During church I was able to encourage adoption of my spots to Don and Dorothy Rein took number 7, Jean and Jim Ackerman took number 8, and Gary and Carolyn Buhr are adopting number 9. After church Margaret and Mike Kelly volunteered to take #10 (and Margaret really liked being a 10) JoAnn and Marv Erhler took #11 and JoAnn assured me that her sister Gwen Law would take #12. Then when I got home I opened my computer to find that Jeanie Podzimek has requested a spot, so she get's number 13. But she required adoption papers, so I'll have to come up with something for her. I think I'm doing pretty well getting rid of these spots...only 17 to go.
As a Schieber...."You Are My Sunshine" has always had special meaning, and as your love and prayers for your individual spots come my way, I will be thinking that you are my sunshine, shining on me and my spots! Thank you so much for the love, prayers, thoughts and concerns for me. m
Carol Kline took number 14 and Jimbo get's 15...then Math and Carol Stalboerger asked for #16. Janet has now promised to crow for #17 (inside joke), and Rosie Mortenson will take #18. Okay, Pat and Larry Wood get #19...only 11 to go! :)m

Adopt a Spot!

Just got off the phone with my special cousin Karen (in Switzerland), and she came up with a really cool idea for me. Each of you can adopt a spot in my lungs and pray to eradicate it! That way I can get rid of all those spots in short order. I have been doing some qigong meditations, and it has me taking in all that love and prayers you are sending and using it to expel that excess energy in my lungs. So giving you each only one spot to work on will help me a lot. I have atleast 30 to be adopted, so sign up now for your spot. Karen has number one. Who will take two?
I didn't go out last nite....just couldn't get out of my jamies....but I have a goal of showering and dressing today and going grocery shopping.....I'm pretty sure I'll make it.....I'm feeling much better this a.m.....but haven't lost the sexy voice yet. Of course that call from Karen was a real boost to my spirits. That and a few emails I got last evening from friends I hadn't heard from in awhile. I just want all of you to know how much I appreciate your thoughts and prayers, it is what keeps me going. You are the wind beneath my wings! Love, m
Adopt a spot #2 goes to Bonnie Sass, #3 goes to Carolyn Breitbach (I ran into her at cub and she volunteered! Heather Sorrell get's number 4 and Chris Spence has number 5 only have about 25 left....get your's now! Mary Jindrich Helgeson gets #6.

What's Next?

I had problems all nite with my sinus's draining down my throat, and now this morning I have this cold, and I sound like my voice is several octaves lower than normal. I put in a call to mayo to my nurse practitioner, but her day off, so left a message with her secretary, saying I was wondering if this could have had an effect on any of the tests I took this week? So I continue to be special!! Nothing normal about me. Poor Janet is referring to our two nites supposed to be a slumber party as "the trip from hell" lol. Sorry Janet! Going to pursue more Qigong treatments today, and then I plan on going out this evening, and pretending this week didn't exist for a few hours. Going out for dinner and a play with the women of the North Suburban Women's Club. Keep those prayers coming my way. Love m

Today's results

When I finally got to see my nurse practitioner, she went over all the tests I've had so far, and the results of the CT scan shows many spots in my lungs, and they believe that the rectal cancer has metastasized to the lungs....so then I saw a lung surgeon, and he said that the spots were so small and spread around in both lungs, so they could not do surgery at this time, but he thinks Chemo would be the route to go....if at some point the Chemo has eradicated most of the spots and their were a few spots that were resistant to the chemo they could then consider surgery. The PET scan also showed that the rectal cancer had gotten smaller for some reason....I am thinking the Qigong session I had before Christmas is what helped that to shrink. Anyway, I still have to see the head surgeon Heidi Nelson on Tuesday, and she has the final say on what is going to happen, but it looks to me like chemo will be the first line of action, and we'll see where that goes and then go from there. So continue those prayers.....it is treatable so that is good.

Waiting Game

Well....I got up early showered and ate a few bites of oat meal and slurped some coffee down, and by that time Jimbo was here to pick me up.....drove down to Rochester for my 10:00 a.m. appointment, only to find out they had changed that appointment to next week on Wednesday. But still have a 12:30 and 2 p.m. appointments before we can drive back to the comforts of home.

My stomach is still gurgaling and distended, so that stuff is still sloshing around inside me. Still waiting for the big blowout when it decides to come out. But till then we are just sitting and waiting. Love, m

Not a Happy End

Last nite, that dastardly stuff (moviprep) didn't prove to be the stuff for me....I was so sick.....cramps, bloating, and vomiting all nite, and then I had to drink it again at 4:30 a.m., and that wouldn't stay down either. Needless to say, they tried but were unable to do the colonoscopy and I will have to do it all again....hopefully with another product. I did have a PET scan after that, but between the two tests, I wasn't done till 2 p.m. I was so sick and weak, poor Janet had to drive me home. I've had a little sussess going to the bathroom this evening, but eating seems to be a problem. I did drink some gatorade my son Bill brought over for me, and I made myself some ramin....but only ate a few bits before I started to burp. So I think I just may have somemore water and go to bed. Tomorrow I have to drive back to Mayo, but Jimbo is taking me. I have a 10:00 appointment to see the ostomy department. I assume to get marked for where they are going to place it.....and I see the nurse practitioner and a surgeon who will be on the team of doctors working on me. Tuesday is still the day I meet the head surgeon Dr Heidi Nelson. Then I will get the plan, and know what is going to happen. More tomorrow. m

And So It Begins

I spent the whole day going from one office and test to another. First, someone took my history, then I had a physical, next blood work, chest xray and CT scan, along with meeting several different doctors and nurse practitioners. I made my way to the pharmacy, to stand in line to turn in the prescription....which was really a line to give you permission to wait and have your name called to go up and really turn in your prescription, and then I move to another waiting area where I waited for my name to come up on a screen, so I could get in another line to pick-up my prescription. All this for a solution to clean me out so that I can have a colonoscopty in the morning, and just as we were leaving the building, I got a call on my cell phone, they asked if I could come in early for the colonoscopy in the a.m.....I said sure without thinking what I was saying, now I have to get up at 4:15 and start drinking somemore dastardly stuff and sitting on the toilet for a couple hours before I go for my 7:30 appointment. When I finish that...I get to go have a PET scan before they will let me eat....so 48 hours later I may get to eat something other than clear liquid....okay, have I complained enough!!! This to will pass!!! Litterly!
Love m

Heading to Rochester

I will be taking off this afternoon for Rochester with Janet. I'm sure she will keep me entertained and laughing. My appointment for assessment at Mayo is at 8:30 tomorrow morning. I don't know what they plan on doing, but will let you know more tomorrow after that appointment. I appreciate all the thoughts and prayers, keep up the good work. Love ya, m

Lunch with the Retiree's and Wantabee's

Had lunch today at Pizza Hut with a big group of my ARCC family....love getting together with everyone. Was so nice to see some that I haven't seen in a long while and get caught up. It reminds me that friends are angels who lift us to our feet when our wings have trouble remembering how to fly. Love you all, m

January Blahs!!!

Well, after a fantastic time at Lutsen, I had my last Christmas gathering of the year on Sunday. My friends Barb, Cheri and Jan have been getting together for over 30 years now, alternating between our homes and exchanging gifts and a meal together. So nice to have good friends like that.
Today, I had my cousin Janet come and help me take down the Christmas Tree. Just after she got here, her sister Judy surprised us both and spent the afternoon visiting with us. Judy and I did a good job visiting while Janet undecorated the tree, and after dinner and Judy was on her way, we took the tree down and out to the curb and I vacuumed up the needles. So that job is done. Thanks to the best cousin in the whole world!!! Love ya, m

Happy New Year

Thanks to all who supported me in thoughts and prayers, laughter, tears all 2009 and hope that it will continue in 2010. Love you, m

On my Way to Lutsen!

Good Morning,
I'm closing out the year as I have the last two at Lutsen, skiing with the whole family. Nothing could be better!
Thank you to all who have helped me through this month, and for that matter the whole year, for all those wonderful Christmas presents, the strong prayers, and the abundant love I've been surrounded with. I am the luckiest person I know right now.
My family gave me the most gorgeous pictures. I can't wait to get them hung on my wall. Proof, that Gene and I did good. Priceless! All the other gifts were just frosting on the cake.
Happy New Year, and much love to all of you. m
P.S. I'll tell you all about the ski trip next year!!! 2010?! I can't believe it!

Merry Christmas

And may God bless us everyone!!! It's snowing like crazy in Minnesota, I've packed my bag and Annie and Doug and family and Doug's mom and dad will all go to church together at 4 p.m. this afternoon, and then back to Annies for dinner, where Bill and Kim and family may join us too. But I think midnite Mass is out....don't want the kids to be out or myself in this weather. I'll sleep at Annies and maybe come home sometime tomorrow. Think the get together with Gene's family might not make it either. Just hoping that the roads are good enough for Tom and Karen and family to drive up on Saturday. Progressive dinner on Sunday, and then dessert and Santa at my house. What a crazy weekend. Love and prayers to all, m

Some Good News Regarding Frank

Hi,

Thank you for all your prayers and I am sure Millie, Your Mom and others have been on the beads.

Frank is feeling better, and received good information at the doctors on Monday.

The whole thing about blood gasses was much ado about nothing. It sure goes to show that seeing doctors that are not familiar with you and your history can really mess things up. Recently his kidney doctor left and he has a new kidney doctor looking at one test and getting a bit overexcited. Than two weeks ago seeing a doctor he had not seen before in Lung area carrying on with kidney doctors orders.both without knowing that Frank has had this problem for 3 years. His regular doctor whom we saw on Monday said not to worry that those were the same numbers Frank has been having for a long time.

He said doctors and patients get all worked up over numbers and sometimes should just look at how you feel.

We Frank is feeling better and his walking statistics have improved since 2 weeks ago. His oxygen test he did over night showed he could use a slight more but go from 2 1/3 to 3 litters only. Also if he is walking around for a while or exercising turn it up and go on continuous rather than on demand.

He gave us permission to leave town with a couple of easy restrictions we can live with. Reporting in some results from breathing tests Frank can do on his own. just to make sure things continue to improve as they have been until he gets back to normal.

I think we will be leaving about the 6th or 7th.depending on the weather. I am sure you will have your kids and Janet to watch over you.

Love,

Judy

The ball is rolling....but very slowly!!

Okay, they can't see me for the assessment till Jan. 12 and then the radiologist probably on the 13th, but didn't get the time....she said they would let me know on the 12th....anyway then I don't see the surgeon till the 19th (as she only see's patients on Tuesdays) and at that time she will give me the plan. If they want to give me radiation before the surgery, it could take 3 weeks and I probably won't have the surgery till the end of Feb. Talk about the slow boat to China!!! So Kathleen, you can go to your wedding in Texas, and I will have to see about cancelling my trip to Florida....doesn't look like I will beable to fit it into the plan. I'm a little angry about that....but I know I will get good care when I finally get it. Two years ago, I was diagnosed in Oct. and didn't have the surgery till Dec. 12....so I guess this isn't much different. I have to be there at 8:30 a.m. on the 12th, may want to go down the night before and stay over nite at a hotel, and then I won't have to get up in the middle of the night to get there. I have to fast from Midnite on, so I don't know what kind of proceedures they will be doing at that time....or how long it will take....then I have to see the radiologist the next day, so I wonder what time, if it's worth driving home and back again the next day......questions still abound.
One bright note, they already got my daily radiation reports from 1996!

I started the ball rolling!

I got the call from the appointment coordinator this afternoon (after 2 p.m.) and gave her a lot of information over the phone to get me registered at Mayo, and then started gathering the information they want before they see me. i.e. Daily radiation reports from 1996 from a office no longer there....but I did track them down. Ran over to Health Partners Coon Rapids and signed a couple of release forms, so they and North Memorial could send them all my records, and films etc., but still no date yet...hopefully when she calls me back tomorrow I'll have that. I do know that it won't happen till atleast January 4. So I plan on celebrating completely everyday I have with family and friends in the Blessed season of Christmas and the merriment of a New Year.

One step Closer

Dr. Schlafer finally talked to Dr. Nelson at Mayo this a.m. and said they definitely want to see me. They will be calling me around noon he said....and then will set up a time to see them. So I don't know how quickly this will go, but it's a start! Schlafer is also sending me copies of my PET and CT scan reports, so I will have those, and he is drafting a letter to Dr. Nelson, with all the pertinent information about my case history. He said they would definitely use their intraoperative radiation on me, and maybe do some radiation before the surgery as well. So....now I wait for the call from Mayo. I am going to be delivering meals on wheels, so I will take a calendar and pen along with me....incase they call while I'm out. Will update you all this afternoon, when I get back from my deliveries. m

No News Today!!

I talked to Dr. Schlafer a minute ago, and he said he has been patiently waiting for the Dr. at Mayo to call him back, but has heard nothing, and promised to bug them again on Monday and will call me on Monday and/or as soon as he hears something. He also said he really thinks that Mayo will be where I have the surgery and any other treatment. He can't imagine they would say I didn't need their special treatment. So we can relax for the weekend, and see what Monday brings.

Please leave comments

Don't know if you all know you can leave comments at the bottom of each post, and you can also sign up to follow this blog, and they will notify you by email that I have updated it with a new post.
No news from the Dr. yet, waiting to hear from him this a.m. as he didn't respond later yesterday afternoon. The waiting games are always the hardest. Although I am still rejoicing that it is only rectal cancer! m

Good News of sorts!!

It is rectal cancer....the lab report came back, and I don't have to go in and have another biopsy. The doctor still hasn't gotten a hold of the surgeon at Mayo, but hopes to get a hold of her today, and will call me back after talking to her. He said if he doesn't call me back this afternoon, it's because he hasn't talked to her yet. But either way he will call me in the morning.
I am so thankful that it is just the rectal cancer back and not my liomyosarcoma!!! The lesser of two evils! Keep praying, Love ya, m

Wednesdays update

I spoke with the surgeon, this afternoon, and they are not sure yet which cancer has returned, as the lab work hasn't come back yet. So we are waiting on that. However they have decided that when they do surgery, they are going to send me to Mayo Clinic to have it, as they have a special kind of radiation there that they can do during the surgery, and one that I could have even though I've had my lifetime supply of the regular radiation. Will know more tomorrow. The doctor has promised to call and keep me informed as to what is going on. He is contacting a surgeon at Mayo by the name of Heidi Nelson. I may be in her care there. I promise to keep this site up to date, as it is the easiest way to keep everyone on the same page. It's hard to know who I emailed and/or called, so this will help a lot. Love, m

Christmas Greetings

Dearest Family and Friends December 2009
The holiday has ascended with the news my cancer is back. Most of you have responded with such love, prayers and support. I feel overwhelmed with the amount of love and calmness that fills my soul by numerous e-mails and phone calls all of you have made. God is actually carrying me through this and whatever comes, I know he’ll be there at my side, sometimes in the form of family and sometime as friends.
The year prior was incredibly fun with travel. Sedona in March with my traveling companion and friend, Bonnie, Sass, Southern Utah and many National Parks with my sister Kathleen, husband Gary, cousin Karen and husband Ruedi (from Switzerland). I spent the summer at the cabin with many friends and family visiting. During the fall, I was able to travel to Williamsburg, Virginia and Washington D.C. with 3 other women, and in October I topped it off with a trip to California to celebrate Aunt Loretta’s 90th Birthday. Many cousins from all across the country were there. Getting to know those California cousins was the greatest. Needless to say, I have the world’s best family and love them all. I also spent a couple of great weeks in Naperville, watching Tom and Karen’s kids while they were in New York on Business. So, I didn’t let any grass grow under my feet and don’t plan on it in the future either.
My children are all doing so well. Tom and Karen, now have a 16 year old daughter Emily, along with Kennedy 9, Will 6, and Presley 3. I have so much fun doing crafts, attending their school programs and sporting events when I’m there.
Bill and Kim have a superb long distance runner in Katie, age 13. Tommy, age 12, is active in scouts and little league. Luckily for me Katie, Allie and Nicole all play hockey and last year were on the same team, so I could watch all of them at one time.
Annie and Doug, are busy with Nicole 14, Allie 12, and Matthew 4. Nicole is a sprinter in the spring, runs cross country in fall and now is playing hockey. Allie does the same and excels in all. Matthew is in love with trains, cars, having Thomas and Lightening McQueen as his favorites.
Jimbo and Ann are now the proud parents of a 17 year old Jack, who is not only driving, but has a lovely girlfriend. Other than girls and cars, he plays baseball. Nick, soon to be 14, is also a baseball player, and runs cross country. I had the opportunity to watch 4 grandkids, all at the same time, at the same event this fall.
All the grand kids seem to be taking after their parents when it comes to sports, keeping their parents busy coaching, and managing their various teams. I’m really proud of all of them.
Wishing you and yours a Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year.
Love and prayers,
Mary

Golfers Needed

Frank & I belong to an organization, Hope Chest News. Each year we have a GOLF fundraiser that brings out the best and the worst golfers wanting to help Heart and Lung Transplant patients. As always we are looking for Golfers July 27th. and donations for our Silent Auction. It looks very promising that our son-in-law Lloyd White, Cathy's husband will be able to play. He needs some more to join him.

This year we have a great RAFFLE also. Don't have to be present to win, 1st. $1000.00, 2nd. $750.00 and 3rd. is $500.00 tickets $5.00 each. We could all use a bit of extra cash.

If you are interested in any of these opportunities please contact me (Judy) javfpv@aol.com
or 952-445-2497

We really would appreciate your help.

New Chapter of my Life

Hi everyone, (or those who read this)
I started a new chapter in my life on Saturday as I am now officially a senior citizen! Never thought I would be doing this alone...or being retired before doing the things retired couples do...but here I am!
I am thankful and greatful for what I do have....a lot of great friends, some who find themselves in the same situation, and a family that spoils me rotten....or just on the verge of getting that way. I don't know what I would do without them.
As I just came in from trying to clean out the gardens around the house, I'm sure the yard and gardens will never be as nice as Gene kept them, so I do know what happens without Gene.
But the sun is shining and I am smiling as I know Gene and Mom are both laughing with me and at me!!!
Can't wait to get to the cabin...looking forward to a great summer...of sun and fun and family!!! Love Mary, Mom, Grandma, Cuz etc.

Great News

I just thought I'd update you on my health....once again. I had my annual colonoscopy on Tuesday and today got the results of a biopsy that they did. It was negative!!! Hurrah!!! So I have atleast another year till I have to prep for that test again. The prep is the worst!!
I spent the first week of April with my sister and her husband and my cousin Karen and her husband Ruedi (from Switzerland) traveling from one National Park in Utah to another. We had a great time even thou it was still chilly and snowed a few times.
Easter Sunday was great....for the first time since before Gene died we were almost all together. Tom and Karen and kids could not make it....but the rest did. Even had two of the families with me in church! My brother Phil joined as for brunch, and it was a beautiful day. The week has gotten continually warmer with lots of sunshine!!! I'll attach a few pictures from my trip, and one from Easter.

Back From Sedona

Hi all, I had a great time in Sedona, Dar picked me up at the airport and I stayed one nite with her and Cathie, then they drove me to Sedona the next day. I spent 3 weeks with my friend Bonnie Sass. We attended the Sedona film Festival and saw 3 great shows there, and saw 5 more films during the time I was there. I also read 4 books and started the 5th....I highly recommend "The Shack" and "The Last Lecture" but have your Kleenex ready. I hiked 6 great trails and saw lots of flowers in bloom, had a great massage, went to Tai Chi twice a week, went to water aerobics a couple times and went to the St. Patricks Day Parade and got autograph on Banners from the Arizona Cardinals Football team for my grandsons too! Got some sun, a few muscles back in shape and a lot of healing done. When I left Sedona I had my Schoenecker Cousins pick me up at the airport and take me out for lunch, so I renewed my relationship with them as well.
It was a great trip....but now I am looking forward to the next....I leave March 31, for Salt Lake, where my sister lives, and I will be joining them in welcoming my cousins from Switzerland. Karen and Reudi hosted us last May, so we are returning the favor....but only for 1 week. We will take them to Moab, Bryce and Zion National Parks in Utah, and then on to Vegas where they will meet friends from Canada. What fun!! I can't wait. m

Prayers Needed

Hi Mary,
Hope all is well. I need a favor from the family. I need prayers for Pandora's brother-in-law. I am enlisting the most powerful people I know along with anybody that can pray.
Pandora's brother-in-laws name is John Marra. His birthdate is May 29th and the name of his cancer is CNS Lymphoma. John is 57 and the father of two. The town they live in is Belmont, California. John was diagnosed May 11, 2008. After treatment last year his symptoms receded. John's symptoms have returned and he is undergoing chemotherapy. This is a rare, aggressive cancer and at this point a miracle is needed to save his life. I've heard miracles can happen. Love, Mike and Pandora

Life is Good!

So sorry I haven't updated this since Christmas....I guess I got attached to facebook, and haven't been here since then.

I am in sunny Sedona, Arizona Having a great time with my friend Bonnie. I flew in on Monday and stayed the nite with my cousin Darleen. She and her friend Cathie drove me to Sedona on Tuesday a.m. and we all had lunch with Bonnie before she headed back to Phoenix.

On Wednesday we did some grocery shopping and did Ashes at 2:00 in the afternoon and then looked for a bathing suit so I could do water aerobics on Friday. On Thursday we hiked to Bell Rock and layed around and read for the afternoon and went to a movie at the Film Festival which didn't start till 9 p.m.....so it was a late nite. Then on Friday a.m. we went to water aerobics and really got a workout. They don't stop moving in the water for a whole hour....I was a little stiff last nite, but don't feel too bad today. Then last nite we went to a 7 p.m. movie and it was really good...the nite before was kinda amaturish vampire movie....last nite was really great in comparison.

Today we came to the library so I could use the computer and then we are going to hike someplace this afternoon. Tomorrow we have the last movie to go to...as it is the last day of the festival.

So life is well for me, loving the warmth and sit in the sun as much as possible. m

Greetings from Snowy Minnesota

I wish a Blessed Christmas and a Happy Healthy New Year to all.
Some prayers are still needed for Neva, Richards wife who is still in intensive care, Jackie is having lots of health problems, Frank could always use your prayers....and I hear my brother Bill could use some prayers too! I sure hope each and everyone of you have as good a 2009 as I had in 2008. Thank you all for your Christmas cards, greetings, phone calls, and gifts. I truely have already had a blessed Christmas. Love and prayers, Mary

Christmas Wishes!

December 2008
Dearest Family and Friends,
As I watched “Charlie Brown Christmas” again, The Reason for the Season, hit me…the reason I’m here, the grace of the newborn child…then I found a Christmas card that read “our joyful songs, our humble hearts, our grateful lives…may these be the precious gifts we bring to lay before the newborn King.” And it was reinforcing to me how grateful I am for my health and my wonderful family and friends who have brought me through this year. Last December I wondered if I would make it through the year and here I am today so happy and healthy, that I know only God’s grace could have gotten me here. I had such a wonderful year. In March I spent 3 weeks hiking and healing in the warmth of Sedona and the company of a dear friend. Then in May I spent the month roaming around Switzerland, Austria and Germany with my sister Kathleen and her husband Gary. We made our cousin Karen’s home as our base and really enjoyed the warm hospitality that was extended to us. Her family was so fun to be with. In June I returned to a newly remodeled cabin that my kids had worked so hard to finish before I returned to surprise me! It was so wonderful. I loved it so much that I spent most of the summer there and rewarded them with a new speedboat for waterskiing in late July. Then this Fall, I traveled to Georgia and visited Joe and Sandi, on to Florida where I saw Jim and Linda Zimmer and then onto New Orleans where my friends Bonnie and Lois met me and we spent a week touring the town. Right after Thanksgiving I drove down to Naperville and watched the grandkids while Tom and Karen were in New York on business. So you see…life is short and I’m enjoying it while I can.
My family is also doing well, Tom and Karen are still both in “shoes” and their children Emily 15, Kennedy 8, William 6, and Presley 2 are such a joy. All active, Emily in Color Guard, Kennedy in Brownies and Soccer, William in Hockey and baseball, and Presley in being smart and cute!!
Bill and Kim are both busy working, Bill luckily from home and Kim at a Pain Clinic in Coon Rapids. Their children Katie 12, and Tommy 11 are also busy, Katie is now playing hockey along with her cousins and also ran cross-country quite successfully this fall. Tommy is active in cub scouts and plays soccer and baseball.
Annie and Doug have had a big change with Doug leaving Federal Cartridge to work for Jimbo. Annie is still teaching and coaching, and they both help with the girls’ sports. Nicole 13, Allie 11 and Matthew 3 keep mom and dad hopping. Nicole is playing hockey right now, but is also involved in soccer and a cross-country runner. Allie is also on the same hockey team as Colie and Katie and played soccer and softball this summer. Matthew is a real boy and into Cars and Trains and is just as cute as can be.
Jimbo and Ann, also haven’t let any grass grow under their feet. Jimbo and his partner have purchased their third Tires Plus. This one in Eau Claire, Wis. Their boys Jack 16, and Nick 12 are getting so old. Jack turned 16 a few weeks ago and got his drivers license that day. Nick was thrilled to be on the Coon Rapids National Little League team that went all the way to Indianapolis for the Midwest championship and played on ESPN in the final game only to lose to the Dakota’s. Jack plays baseball and football and Nick ran cross country this fall as well.
Grandma keeps busy trying to watch each of them participate in their chosen sports or activities. It’s hard to make them all, but I do my best. They are all smart and good looking, and I’m not saying that because I’m the grandma…they really are! My life is so blessed by them all.
Don’t forget the “reason for the season” and have a wonderful New Year.
Love and prayers, Mary

Happy16th Birthday Jack

and good luck on the test!!! Drive carefully, Love Grandma

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!

I was in the midst of baking the buns for late last nite when my oven quit. I guess everything else will have to be in the microwave or on the stove. Thank God I have an electric roaster for the turkey. I don't know what I'll do for bread. What a dumb thing to happen. Hope your dinner turns out! and pray for mine. Mom where are you now? m

Greetings from Georgia

Hi, I'm in Athens, Georgia staying at the Schieber (Biltmore) Bed and Breakfast. Their cooking rivals the Switzerland Bed and Breakfast I stayed at in May, and also Kathleen's husband Gary's. Loving it here, they play a mean "Spinner" but I managed to beat them anyway once!!! I'll be in Destin, Florida on Wednesday evening at childhood friends Jim and Linda Zimmers. I hope they can compete with the family. Then on Friday I drive to New Orleans to stay at a time share with Bonnie Sass and Lois Bjerke, friends I worked with and have traveled with of late. See you soon. (Well those who live in MN) Love ya all!!! m

Ann Kiecker turns "40" and Doug Stalboerger "41"

We celebrated Ann and Doug's birthday's last nite....but Ann really has till Sunday to be 39. They share November 9th for their birthdays. Happy Birthday, I love you both. I wanted to get this posted before I left for my big trip. I leave this afternoon for Atlanta to visit Joe and Sandi for five days....then Jim and Linda in Destin Florida for a couple days...then I meet Bonnie Sass and Lois Bjerke, my traveling buddies in New Orleans for a week. I won't be home till November 21, so see all you family and friends then. Love ya, m

First Communion

Sunday, November 3, Thomas Karl Kiecker made his First Communion. Picture of Tommy with his family (Bill, Kim and Katie). Guess I didn't have my camera on the right setting....cause this is a little blurry....maybe someone can email me a better picture. m

Trick or Treat!

Jimbo has a halloween party each year for his nieces and nephews (no parents aloud)just grandma....and you must wear a costume! We watch "It's a Great Pumpkim Charlie Brown" and eat and just have fun. Of course the evening ends with pumpkin pie!!! Thanks Jimbo a great time was had by all!! Happy Halloween everyone! m

As You See, I'm Doing Great

Good Friends, Good Food and Lots of Laughs is aiding in my recovery! I have had several dinners out in the last few months, joining with many old friends and some new ones too. The doctors can't find anything wrong with my health and have even removed two medications from my list. I'm down to two and one is for allergies....so I am happy about that.
We closed the cabin last week, which was sad, but I'm sure the winter will fly by with travel, more dinners, much more laughter and my great family...and I'll be back at the lake enjoying life. Thanks to all who have joined in my healing. Love ya all, m

HAPPY BIRTHDAY WILLIAM!!!

William is 6 today! Hurrah!!! Hugs and Kisses from Grandma

MY BABY is 40 Happy Birthday JIMBO

Love you so much, and thank you for all you have done for me this last year! mom

Happy Birthday Matthew!

Matthew is 3 today! Hip Hip Hurrah!!!

I'm PERFECT!!!

Hi, been a while since I wrote about my personal life....so I just thought I'd let you know that I went to see my surgeon today, and he said I was "Perfect". I have been feeling good, and feel stronger all the time. I have an appointment to see the surgeon who did my surgery 12 years ago next week, and I expect he also will tell me that all is well...But it is really nice to hear every now and then that you are perfect. I guess I have been spending too much time with my sister....she is the perfect one. Sorry Kathleen, but I just couldn't help it!! Love you all and thank you for your continued thoughts and prayers and I know I am only perfect because of all of you. m

Happy 17th Anniversary Jimbo and Ann

Hope you have a great year just like the last 17. Love ya lots, mom

Happy Birthday Nicole

Oh my gosh....a teenager!!!
Colie Rose is 13!!!

I couldn't find one good picture of Nicole by herself....so I had to put three pictures in the blog. Katie one of her cousins and Matthew her little brother share the limelight. Happy Birthday Nicole...Love ya lots, Grandma K

Happy Anniversary Bill and Kim (14 years?)

Hope you have a happy day and that it continues all year long! Love ya, mom

Happy Birthday Tommy

Tommy on right


Tommy Kiecker is 11 today September 3, 2008 Happy Birthday, Love Grandma

First Day of School

Just a reminder....that I'm retired and getting old! Ann sent pictures of Jack and Nick this morning as she has taken pictures of the boys the first day each year since they started school. Jack is in 10th grade and Nick in 7th. Nicole and Katie also are in 7th grade....Emily in 9th or HIGH SCHOOL, Allie in 6th grade or Middle School.....Tommy who just celebrated his 11th birthday at the cabin (but it's really tomorrow) is in 5th, Kennedy in 3rd, William is just starting Kindergarten....boy Matthew had to go back to day care as Annie went back to teaching, and Presley is stuck there too! I got to sleep in...which I did till 8:15.
I am feeling great and looking forward to Fall...which is right around the corner! m

Living the Dream!

Tom's girls Emily and Kennedy with the Jonas Brothers! How cool is that! grandma

Go Coon Rapids National Little League

MY Grandson NICK'S LITTLE LEAGUE TEAM WON THEIR GAME TODAY VS IOWA AND ADVANCES TO THE MIDWEST FINALS TOMORROW ON ESPN!!! THE GAME IS AT 11AM SO EVERYONE CHEER THEM ON TO VICTORY!!! IF THEY WIN, THEY GO TO THE LITTLE LEAGUE WORLD SERIES IN PA!!!!

HE IS THE 2ND BASEMAN AND IS #10, SUPER FAST AND OF COURSE THE CUTEST ON THE TEAM!!

Check out my new boat!

Can't wait for the grandkids to learn to waterski!!!! I'm so excited! I am sure they are too! m

Kiecker Gene Pool Rocks!!!

I've been so busy with family and friends the last few weeks that I haven't had time to write....but have great news to announce!!!!

Team Theresa Wins Again!!!! The Kiecker family and a few Schoeneckers gathered again at the Family Reunion and with the help of William the MVP who scored the winning run... won the tournament for the 4th time. Over the last 14 years we have won every softball tournament. My kids were in their prime 14 years ago....and now the grandkids have come into their prime.
Nick is playing on the Coon Rapids National All Star Little League Team which won districts this weekend and Nick scored the winning run in the top of the last inning....as well as making some great defensive plays in the bottom of that inning.
Katie's team won their region soccer tournament last nite and will be playing in state this weekend.
Emily was chosen by her peers and coaches to play on their All Star Softball Team and will play under the lights on Thursday.
Allie's softball team won the honor of going to state as well, but the parents decided they didn't want to participate.
I will be busy watching grandkids all weekend.

I have been at the cabin almost everyday since the first of the month. Tom and Karen came on the 2nd and all the rest of the family followed....we had a wonderful 4th joined by friends of the family and then on the 5th celebrated Kennedy's 8th birthday with more friends and family. By Monday everyone left me alone....but that was short lived as on Tuesday my sister and her husband joined me at the cabin and on Thursday Kathleen and I went to the airport and picked up Aunt Loretta from California and Cousin Joe from Athens Goergia. Had my brother Bill and his kids and grandkids join us at the cabin on Friday and then Friday evening the family reunion started with dinner in Monticello and Saturday we moved to Becker to David and Jenny's Sod Farm. On Sunday Kathleen, Gary, Joe and Loretta all returned to the cabin. Then Tina and the young Jim Spence's surprised us by showing up on her speed boat at our dock. They then joined us for dinner. After they left we were playing cards when Jimbo's friend Johnny Bret showed up at the door and a few minutes later Judy and Frank appeared. Monday Kathleen and Gary departed for Wisconsin....and Loretta and I took Joe to the airport. Loretta and I stayed in town till Thursday when I took her back to the airport too. Then I returned to the cabin and on Friday a.m. Jack and four friends came to the cabin for the day and nite and they left on Saturday afternoon. Then I drove back to the city as well and watched Nick win on Sunday morning and then returned to the cabin and Annie and Doug and their friends the Hannula's spent the day with me. I think I will be here alone till Thursday....and then I will be home for a whole week. I may even beable to get some yard work done there... which is much needed. So now you see why I haven't updated this blog since July 1. Love ya all, m

My Anniversary

Today marks what would have been my 46th wedding anniversary. It has been a happy day, as the kids have sent me well wishes, and it was a great 45 years!! Life has it's ups and downs, but our marriage produced four wonderful children who brought me great spouses and eleven beautiful grandchildren....who couldn't be happy about that!

Oh Happy Day! m

No news is good news!

I was just informed that I haven't updated this blog for weeks, so I guess I better write a few lines to let you all know that I am alive. I have been spending all my time at the cabin, just going to town when necessary for dates etc. I've painted everything that needed painting in the boathouse, and am waiting for the new garage doors to go up so I can paint them too. The boys were up yesterday working on the boat lift and dock, and all got a servere case of swimmers itch. What a bummer....they were itching so bad and nothing seemed to make it better....so they all went home. I sure hope they come back some day!!! m

Things I Miss

Things I Miss
I laid awake last nite and thought about the things I miss now that I’ve been home a week. I’m sure my words were much better as I put them together in bed….but I thought I’d try to put them in the blog this a.m…..so here goes.
I miss the church bells waking me in the morning, as in Marbach they have not one but two churches that ring every quarter hour. But they never ring at the same time, first one and then the other with a slightly different ring. I miss getting up in the morning and going across the street and buying fresh rolls for breakfast. When I got inside their were so many choices, I stood at the counter and pointed and said ein, ein, ein, ein, ein, ein, ein, ein (or one of each). Then when you brought them back to Karen’s we all sat down to breakfast at the dining room table and Kathleen and Gary made coffee with their French press coffee maker and Karen had real butter and jam on the table. Yum yum.
I miss Gary’s homemade soup for lunch along with some more fresh bread. Again all sitting down to eat together (even Reudi joins us for breakfast and lunch even though he has been in his office working since 6 or 7 a.m.) I also miss Reudi and Gary teaming up (which is dangerous) and playing off each other with dry humor. God Bless Gary.
I miss sitting in the kitchen and watching Karen lovingly bake a pie….and I watched her do this at least four times in the month we were there. She never uses anything in a can, and makes the best crust I’ve ever eaten….which is saying a lot….as I don’t like crust, usually I eat the pie and leave the crust. Then after putting it in the oven I miss the smell of the house as it baked…..it was so wonderful.
I miss watching their interactions of Jenny and Geoffrey with their parents and with us. They are really great kids….or young adults….as they are 18 and 20. Jenny is a beautiful young women and smart and has the best smile….Geoffrey is tall, good looking and has a quick whit like his fathers. When Kathleen and I told him he had to respect us as we were his aunts (as we adopted Loretta as our mom) he said “yah respect, but that means more presents for me!” His birthday is February 2….I better not forget.
I miss looking out the window and seeing Austria’s white capped mountains across the river valley. I miss the sunshine and flowers all in bloom. Here in Minnesota it has been cloudy almost everyday since I’ve been home, and the lilac’s and bleeding hearts are just now blooming….about a month late.
I miss playing games after dinner…..Kathleen and Gary brought dice and taught everyone how to play ten thousand, pig and liar’s dice and a game they left with the family called Blockus. Geoffrey challenged Gary in all of them, and had incredibly good luck at beating him on several occasions.
I miss shopping with Kathleen and Karen and bonding with Karen like another sister. It’s like I’ve know her all my life when in actuality I just met her for the first time in 2001 when Gene and I visited Switzerland on our tour of Europe and spent one day with Karen and her family.
I am happy to be home as I also missed my family while gone….I’ve never been gone so long before. Absence does make the heart grow fonder!
I also miss Gene, as today is the one year anniversary of his death. m

Fun on DuLac's

It seems like every place we've been has been on water....the last week was no exception. We traveled south to Lugano which is on Luganosee and took a day trip by boat from one small village to another, stopping for lunch in Marcote which was lovely....then the next day we had the Como Lugano experience....which was much like the "Great Race". We left Lugano by boat and travelled up the lake to Porlezza. We then had about 1/2 hour to waste before catching a bus to Menaggio. So we had coffee which also helped to warm up, as it was a rainy day. The bus was an experience all in itself. The hairpin turns down the side of a mountain while passing other busses and trucks on a narrow road was scarry....and it wasn't just one hairpin turn but one after another all the way down. The view of the lake and the villages across the way was incredible as well. When we got off the bus....we had a 5 minute walk to the dock where the ferry left from....so we hustled over and just got there in time to debark for Bellagio...but that was not the first stop....so we had to get back on and wait till we finally landed in Bellagio where we were supposed to have 1 hour and 20 minutes to see the sites....but by the time we found out where the next leg of the trip started, and we had lunch we only had about 15 minutes to shop, which meant I only purchased a couple of postcards and headed for the dock and hastily took pictures. The next mode of transportation was a hydrofoil down to Como with only a couple of stops along the way. By the time we got to Como....the rain had stopped. But because of the rain, all the waterfalls along the lake were spectacular and the low hanging clouds gave the mountains a new beauty. In Como we quickly found the bus stop and our bus to Ponto Chiassa arrived before I could run to the Mac Donalds to use the bathroom....so no time to dilly dally there. When we got to Chiassa, we had to walk across the border of Italy back into Switzerland and find the bahnhof (train station) back to Lugano, and walked a few blocks in the wrong direction and stopped to ask directions and ended up walking back to the border crossing and asking one of the guards where the train station was....and he pointed and said it was about 30 meters up the road....the opposite direction we had walked in the first place. Anyway we then took a train back to Lugano and then a funicular down the hill into the middle of town....and then walked to a bus stop and took a city bus back to our hotel.....now all of this was done in a span of 7 hours or less. The Amazing Race!!!! From Lugano we headed back north to Lucerne and stayed a long the lake in a Swiss Chalet with a beautiful view of the lake. Breakfast each morning was served outside on a patio overlooking the lake and it was beautiful. Life on DuLac's is wonderful. m

Only One More Week

Last week we traveled to Titisea in the Black Forest and Basil in Switzerland. Today we will drive to Appenzell and tomorrow we will head south to Logano and points beyond. I can't wait to get home and upload more pictures for all of you to see. In Basil we went to six museums and saw some amazing works of art. We dined in great restuarants as well. Yesterday we got to go with Reudi and Karen to Geoffrey's band competition marching portion. On Saturday they finished 2nd in the music portion....and yesterday they had to march about 6 blocks playing and got judged on that and finished 6th out of 17 band in that category. I don't know what place they were overall. It was fun anyway and then we went to a big tent where an old time band was playing and we had wurst and beer (I had wine) and listened to the music. Gary's friends also joined us for the day. I believe a good time was had by all.

Another Beautiful Day in Paradise

Today we are in Tittisee in southern Germany in the Black Forest. It is a beautiful resort town on a beautiful lake. Tomorrow we will head back into Switzerland and the citz of Basil. We plan on Spending two days there and will probably head back to Marbach on Saturday as Geoffrey will be playing in a band competition. On Monday, we plan on taking a train trip frist down to Lake Como and then Lucerne, Zermatt, Interlaken and Bern and then back to Marbach and on the following Wednesday we head home. I can´t believe how fast the time is flying. m

God's Counry

After spending 2 days in Vienna including a tour of the schoenbrun Palace and attending the opera "The Magic Flute". We headed towards Marbach....but got side-tracked by this little very old town of Hallstadt. It is on a ledge at the foot of a mountain that has been mined for salt since 800 BC and on a beautful Lake called the Hallstadtersee. We fell in love and found an apartment on the lake and decided to stay the nite.....but by morning, we wanted to stay another....so we did. Breakfast on the edge of the lake in our backyard was cold cuts and bread that we had bought fresh was one of the highlights. We wandered the area on foot and did some shopping and found a little resturant a half a block from our apartment and had dinner again on the lake....but this time we had sauerkraut and potatoe duplings....makes you really feel like you are in Austria!!! By Saturday nite we were back in Marbach after touring several more lakes and quaint towns. Sunday Mother's Day Reudi and Karen took us to the Rhine Falls about a two hour drive on the German border....and then to Stein a Rhine another quaint town with beautiful paintings decorating the buildings and the town band playing in the market square for all the mothers.
Yesterday we drove back to Zurich and visited a friend of Gary's who took us by train up a mountain and on a 4.9 kilometer hike back down along a stream and into the town of Küsnacht and by boat back to Zurich and then by train back to his home in the suburbs. So it has been one beautiful day after another....I truely think this is God's Country!!!

Tale of Two Towns

We spent the better part of two days trying to find some clues to our heritage, but had no luck. We did meet the only remaining Hirt family, but the husband had rescently passed away at 76....and his wife knew of no other Hirt families....cept one her husbands Uncle that had moved to the US in the 30´s but she didn´t even know where in the U.S. that was. But she was a charming women, and took us to two other homes of people who may have known something of the Hirts or Scheiber´s....but one women was at the hospital visiting her partner...and the other really didn´t know anything. But Reudi bought me the book of the history of Lockenhaus...which has many pictures, only it is written in German....Karen will interpret or translate interesting portions for us. In Deutchgerisdorf where the Sherman´s are from we went to the cemetary and took many pictures of headstones. So evidence of Hirt, Sherman and Scheiber´s is still very much here...but nothing of a Stefan ever. We did dispell the myth that grandma was impregnated by the prince at the castle....as it was in ruins for the last 200 years until in 1979 someone bought it and restored it to it´s present day site. He may have been a soldier, but we don´t know of any wars that were taking place at that time....or he may be a Hungarian as Hungary is only a few kilometers away. Or maybe grandma just made the name up....we can´t figure it out. But it is a beautiful area and will send pictures when I am able.
We are now in Vienna and Karen and Reudi have left us and gone back to Marbach...we will do somemore touring and return to Marbach on Saturday, before we take off on another adventure. Loving the country and have tasted many great pastries, but there Krupfins are not Grupfins and the poppystrudel isn´t as good as mine or moms. We´ll have to try a few more bakeries to test them all. Love, m

Tales of the WC

My first day on vacation was spent mostly on airplanes....but it was very short as on the airplane we boarded in NY we set our watches to Swiss time, so my birthday May 2 was celebrated for about 30 hours. Most of the plane ride was uneventful cept the take off in Newark.....we boarded at 6 p.m. and didnt leave the ground till 8:15 p.m. but once in the air things went fine....just a bit of a backup on the takeoff and landing strip.
So once in Switzerland...9:30 a.m. on May 2 my story begins....we landed and got the rental car a Renault stationwagon and headed for Zeruck to see the city. Once finding a parking ramp, we couldn't get the car to lock....some nice people who parked next to us tryed to help, and even called Hertz and followed all the instructions in german but it still would't lock....so they sent out a service man to fix it for us....well in the mean time I had to find a bathroom and was sent across the street to a WC (a large cylander shaped thing, that cost 1 franc to enter, only I only had 2 franc coins....so I paid 2 francs to get into this thing. The door automoatically open once the coin is inplace and then you step in and the door closes and everything seems wet...well it is! You do your thing...but cannot find a handle to flush the toilet, so I touch the handle and the door opens and you step out and the door closes behind you and then you hear it flushes and totally washes down the whole inside (Karen suggests if I stayed longer i might have gotten a shower for the same price!
Back to the car....a man finally arrives and somehow fixes the problem, but we had to pull out of the parking ramp for him to do so, and then he wanted to charge us 170 francs. We refused and said we wanted to talk to Hertz....and the man angry got in his truck and left. So we were off to see Zurich.
As in the last months bathrooms have become my friend....I decided I would write on all the interesting things i found. At the airport the bathrooms were very clean....but i had a little problem trying to find the button to flush as it was a metal plate on the wall, that didnt look at all like it would be it....but it was. At one of our first stops (Starbucks) we needed a code to type on a keypad to get in....but free to the costomers. Later as I needed to find one again....we walked by a McDonalds so I walked in and down one flight of stairs to find the restuarant counter and looked left and saw a sign pointing up another set of stairs to the toilets....So I raced another young women up 2 flights of stairs and was happy to find 3 stalls there. Once to Karens (which is a lovely old 1700's home, but has interesting plumbing) I needed instructions on how to flush as one toilet had a no tank, but a pipe with a knob above the seat which needs to be turned on as you would a faucet....and off again to stop the water....and then another toilet on the main floor that has an oblong metal piece cut into the traditional ceramic cover of the tank that you press to make it flush. All this and the wonderful bathrooms on the airplane....and it has been an intersting and informing trip so far.
Karen and Reudi served us a wonderful dinner and gave us a tour of their business and then after dinner took us to their tasting room which had a surprise cake and balloons with cows on them and swiss ribbons and then served us our choice of several brandies....It was a wonderful and long birthday....Love you all, more soon. m