Up, Up, and Away!

When I gave birth to Emile and Brie I probably felt the same way most other mothers feel. I knew my babies would someday be all grown up and out on their own, however, that day was a long, LONG way away. So here I sit 23+ years later and that day arrived MUCH FASTER than I was prepared for. Is that how most moms feel? I suppose it is. Again, I remember how many times my own mother told me how fast time fly's by... now I understand. My baby girls are spreading their wings and leaving the nest.

Both Emile and Brie chose to attend HACC (Harrisburg Area Community College).

Due to some choices Em made in her personal life along with some medical issues she has developed (hand tremors) she had to make a career path change. Rather than pursuing law enforcement she decided upon Emergency Medical Services. I think she may just be an adrenaline junkie??? I don't know where she gets that from. Bwahahahahaha!!! At any rate, Emile took the Emergency Medical Technician course at the York campus (York Hospital). She worked hard and before she knew it it was time to do her testing to become a Nationally Registered EMT. The test was divided into two parts, a written and a practical exam. In addition to that Emile also had to take and pass her Emergency Vehicle Operation Certification course so she would be able to drive an ambulance.

All of Emile's hard work, studying, and sleepless nights paid off. In March 2015 she PASSED all her exams on the very first try!!!! Her EVOC was a few months later and she passed them as well.

In July 2015 Emile was hired by White Rose Ambulance, while in the past few months she as started working PRN for Spring Grove Ambulance and West York Ambulance. Referring back to the "adrenaline junkie" title further up in this post.... Em's goal is to become a flight medic and perhaps even fly out of Penn State Hershey Medical Center in Hershey PA. In order to do that she must first become a paramedic. There is no doubt in my mind that Emile will someday accomplish that goal and when she does she will be an outstanding medic!

Emile's drive, dedication, and compassion to the EMS field and those she cares for is already making her a better person. She clearly has found a career she loves and lives for. Well done, kiddo... I'm so proud of you!!!

This is a picture of Emile and her partner that was published in the York Daily Record. They were moving the body of a deceased man from the area of the Codorus Creek in downtown York. The coroner is the gentleman following her and she is always picking his brain on calls. Again, it's just an example of her desire to learn and become better at what she does. The sky is the limit.... quite literally.

Brie is just finishing up her second semester at HACC with her focus in radiology. When she began her classes she was planning on becoming an X-Ray Technologist, however, she seems to be changing her mind on where she wants to be when all is said and done. The last time Brie and I spoke about her career path she indicated a desire to do ultrasounds. While doing research she discovered that this is where the most money can be earned. Makes sense to me as long as it's something she enjoys doing. I'm sure she'll be good at whatever her final decision is.

Needless to say I am proud of both Emile's and Brie's accomplishments thus far. They may have given me some grief (okay, they DID give me some grief... some days more than other days) but they have become focused, independent, and loving young women. They're on their way to successful futures and for that I am incredibly grateful. Well done, Emile and Brie. Keep it up!!!

Better Late Than Never????

A few posts back I mentioned that I had gotten married... a very brief mention at that. I suppose I really should share more details since it was a very special day

A little about Matthew before I continue. The first thing that comes to mind when I think of my sweet husband is just that... what a truly sweet and gentle man he is. He has showed me, Emile, and Brie kindness and generosity in more ways than I can describe. In spite of all the love he shows us he asks for nothing in return. Well, I suppose the only thing he asks for is our love... which he has.

Matthew and I were married in York, PA at the local chapel of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints on Saturday, January 31, 2015. President Conrad Knudson. Since it was obviously held in the middle of winter, we decided on a winter. Our colors were burgundy, blue, and silver, with lots of snowflakes. I had so many friends who stepped up to help me get everything ready... plus I hit every Dollar General in the York and Spring Grove area to buy inexpensive supplies. I even had tree branches cut and mounted to wood bases to use around the room.

I was honestly surprised at how many people shared in our special day. We didn't have enough seats in the primary room for the actual wedding ceremony. The guests jumped in and put out more chairs so everyone could be seated. It was wonderful!

It's hard to explain how loved I felt. Little Braxton was our ring bearer and Isla was our snowflake girl (although she forgot to drop a single flake). While a string quartet played for us, Emile and Brie walked me in and handed me off to my little buddy, Will, who gave me away. Matt's sons, Sean and Jeremy, stood with him. All of them touched my heart and the entire service made me cry.

Along with some humor, President Knudson shared wisdom and advice for us to apply in our marriage. He has been our family doctor as well as church leader for many years. It was comforting having someone who has known me be the one to perform our marriage vows. I can't think of anyone I would have rather had. Brie recited a poem before Matt and I shared some personal thoughts we had.

 

After the ceremony we had a reception in the gym. We decided to serve "comfort foods"... chicken corn soup, chili, and loaded potato soup, rolls, fresh vegetables and dip, chips and pretzels. We also had a "Hot Cocoa Bar" with all the fixins' and apple cider. Carmen Estes made our BEAUTIFUL cake and Brie made all the cupcakes. Again, everything was just as I pictured it.... positively perfect!

Even though we have been married almost 2 years now, I am still so thankful for everyone who helped make our wedding the incredibly memorable and enjoyable day it was. I can't imagine it being any better.... from start to finish.

We're off to great places......

Holding My Breath

A year ago a rough period was just beginning. What I didn't know at the time was how long or how bad things were about to become. Today I am holding my breath to a degree... just hoping and praying that the events of a year ago aren't repeated. So far, so good!

Let me begin with two very dirty words...... TRIGEMINAL NEURALGIA. When I say these are dirty words I'm not exaggerating! This term should never have to pass the lips of any human being. Unfortunately, all too often it does. And equally unfortunate, it has now become a part of my life, as well of the lives of those who are important parts of my life. Trigeminal Neuralgia is an extremely painful condition emanating from the trigeminal nerve. There isn't an exact known cause of why the nerve becomes damaged, however, it is more common in women over the age of 50 and those who have Multiple Sclerosis. Here's an example of what Trigeminal Neuralgia "looks" like.....

My journey with TN actually began in June of 2015. I went to the dentist for a routine X-Ray, exam, and cleaning. I was told that everything looked fine (no cavities) and the cleaning went just fine. The next day I noticed my teeth seemed more hot/cold sensitive and I felt like I was getting a toothache on a tooth on the lower left side of my mouth. After a few days it was bothering me to the point that I decided to return to the dentist to have it checked out. The dentist did another X-ray and said everything looked fine; perhaps I could try a sensitive care toothpaste. I did that and after a week I felt relief. I figured it was just a "fluke."

Fast forward to mid August. The same thing happened. I began feeling increased sensitivity and a toothache, again on the lower left. It rapidly became worse but when I called my dentist I was told I couldn't be seen because it was a Friday and there were no appointments available. I was told the dentist had reviewed my chart and still said there was nothing wrong with my teeth. I took as many different types of over the counter meds I could think of to relieve the discomfort but the pain kept getting worse. By Saturday afternoon I was a Patient First thinking I must have an abscess or something. The doctor seemed to agree and prescribed an antibiotic and prescription pain reliever. She also told me about Smilebuilderz in Lancaster. This dental practice offers emergency appointments on the weekend. I figured I'd be fine to wait until Monday to see my own dentist. I couldn't have been any more wrong if I had tried.

First thing Sunday morning I was on my way to Lancaster. The pain was bad, BAD, BAD! No matter what I took or tried (heat, ice) I couldn't shake the pain. By the time we arrived at Smilebuilderz (shortly after 8am) they already had several patients waiting ahead of me. I wasn't willing to leave without being seen though. After 2 plus hours of pacing back and forth, walking around outside, crying, suffering, etc., Matt became pretty forceful with the staff and said I needed help. It was a short time later that I was seated and waiting for the dentist to examine me. Another set of X-rays and exam revealed nothing wrong with the teeth in the area. The dentist pulled up some information about a medical condition and before he even said a word I started crying again. I immediately recognized what I was seeing. I patient I had worked with had been diagnosed with the condition and I had watched her suffer for several years before she finally had a surgical procedure done which in her case worked very well. I honestly didn't think the dentist was right. On the other hand it all made sense. As he suggested, Matt and I went immediately to Memorial Hospital in York to be seen for the condition (because the medication needed to begin treating me wasn't anything he would be able to prescribe). The E.R. doctor agreed with the finding and within an hour I was given a shot and an oral medication One was a pain reliever while the other was an anti-seizure medication meant to sedate the brain (in turn calming the trigeminal nerve). I did get some initial relief but not for long. By Monday morning I was at my family doctor practically begging (not an exaggeration) to be seen and given something to help me.

I was given a higher dose of the medication I was prescribed along with a new medication (another type of anti-seizure med) to see if it helped. Dr. S. told me it may take a little bit of time to get everything under control but to not give up. He said this condition used to be known as the "suicide condition" because of the intensity of the pain and the limited treatments available. Sure enough, after a period of time (perhaps a week or two) I did seem to improve. I was feeling like the worst of it was behind me. In mid October I had a very minor "relapse" for two or three days but other than that things seemed to be going along much better....  UNTIL the wee hours of November 28, 2015. All Hell was about to break loose.

To make a VERY LONG (seven week to be exact) story short and because a lot of what took place isn't clear anyway, I had an OVER THE TOP  battle with TN. I woke with a severe toothache and it kept getting worse and worse. Again, regardless of what I tried nothing was working. This time around I ended up in the hospital on Dilaudid (a potent schedule II controlled opioid) around the clock while they tried to get the pain under control. After 2 days they began switching me off the Dilaudid and onto an oral opioid to take while a different type of anti-seizure regimen was increased to an effective dosage.

Following discharge from the hospital, I spent the majority of the month of December asleep. Every few days my medication doses would be increased to get to a point where I would be able to have pain relief while at the same time become able to "function" again. I literally "missed" Christmas last year. It's still something that brings me sadness when I think of it.

Due to the fact that I was asleep so much (and moving very little at best), I ended up with two additional issues... pneumonia and shingles! Can you believe that crap?!!!

Throughout it all I had my family standing by me. From what Emile and Brie told me, Matt slept on the floor in the "man cave" many nights. I couldn't sleep in bed because of the pain and then because of all the chest congestion. Brie kept all my medications straight up to and including getting up around the clock at times to make sure I was taking everything correctly. Both Emile and Brie had to deal with getting me to and from the hospital and/or numerous doctor appointments. And one of the sweetest gestures of all was when Emile sent me a darling flower arrangement to try and cheer me up. Christmas is my absolute favorite time of the year and I was struggling to such a degree that all of them were try to doing anything they could do to support me.

So here we are a year later. The medication regimen I'm on is working well. I've researched a few different surgical options should TN rear its ugly head and/or the meds I'm currently taking become ineffective. Am I scared things may become bad again? Absolutely!! I'm more frightened than is imaginable. I never want to experience what I went through again. I described the pain as being an all consuming "black" pain. The reason I say this is because at times black was the only thing I could see. There was no way to escape it! Fortunately, skilled doctors finally got on top of things and for now I'm "stable" and doing well.

The Times They Are a-Changin'

Here we go... a major shake up just took place in our nation... pretty exciting stuff if you ask me. On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 the general election for President of the United States was held. The candidates were about as polar opposite as one could imagine on some issues, but in other ways were VERY MUCH alike. Their policies were different but in the eyes of many their obnoxious and argumentative personalities were identical. And so it goes....

On the Democratic side we have Hillary Clinton.

And on the Republican side we have Donald Trump.

  

I don't quite remember how many candidates threw their hats into the ring in the beginning of the race for the White House, however, this year it seems there were a TON!! On the democratic side there were five additional candidates vying for the nomination. They were Bernie Sanders, Martin O'Malley, Lawrence Lessig, Jim Webb, and Lincoln Chafee. Of the group, Bernie gave Hillary a serious run for her money. He led a STRONG grass roots effort that came as a surprise to many in the beginning. As he gained momentum it appeared that he was gaining more and more followers but unfortunately for the democratic party Hillary ended up with the nomination. 

On the republican side there were 11 candidates in addition to Trump seeking the presidency. They were John Kasich, Ted Cruz, Marco Rubio, Ben Carson, Jeb Bush, Jim Gilmore, Chris Christie, Carly Fiorina, Rick Santorum, Rand Paul, and Mike Huckabee. On this side Ben Carson, Ted Cruz, Marco Rubio, Carly Fiorina, and Jeb Bush started off with the most traction. As the campaign went on though Trump began to surge ahead. He was a political outsider and American citizens were listening to what he was saying (as offensive and off the cuff as it may have been at times). When it came down to Trump being nominated the energy and momentum was frankly just beginning!!! 

Hillary Clinton had 41 platform issues.... 41!  Some of the issues she focused on were:

• Combating terrorism & keeping the homeland safe
• Climate change
• Immigration reform
• Voting rights
• Health care
• Gun violence prevention
• LGBT rights & equality
• Racial justice
• Fair tax system

 Donald Trump focused on 15 platform issues. They were:

•  Infrastructure
• Cybersecurity
• Veterans affairs reform
• Trade
• Tax reform
• Immigration reform 
• National Defense
• Health care
• Foreign policy & defeating ISIS
• Energy
• Educaton 
• Constitution & Second Amendment protection
• Child care 
• Economy 
• Regulations 

In the end it was the "ordinary" folks who came out in record numbers to support Trump. Americans all over this nation are FED UP with what is taking place in Washington D.C. We are tired of our elected officials doing what they want rather than what their constituents want them to do. It is absolutely appalling that bills/laws are being passed before there is a clear understanding of what the bill contains. There is a movement taking place. I love this nation. I cannot imagine living anywhere else on this planet. After ordinary people fought and died for freedom during the American Revolution, our Founding Fathers worked hard to establish the ground work that this great nation would be build upon. There are many who are working behind the scenes (and even in plain view) to destroy America. I will fight to my death to defend the freedoms I hold dear to my heart. I will fight to secure these freedoms so they remain in place for my posterity. WE THE PEOPLE are speaking and Capital Hill best be listening!!

Really? I Mean REALLY????

Geesh... Here I am again. It has been how long since I blogged last? Ummm... who's counting at this point? Not me. Why beat myself up about it? Tons of amazing events have happened in not just my life but in Emile and Brie's lives as well. It will take a bit to get everthing caught up, however, as I have contemplated life and the days that are flying by, it seems more important to get back to recording what is happening.

Where should I begin? I suppose the most obvious place would be my marriage. That's right! I got married. After all these years I met a wonderful man and the rest as they say is history. Matthew and I have been married for a little over a year and while it has been an adjustment for all of us, so far so good. More details about that to come.

Emile and Brie are both doing amazing things with their lives. Suffice it to say I am very pleased with both of them. Emile has learned a skill and is impacting the lives of people in the community. Brie has graduated from high school and is continuing her education. Again, more details on this to follow.

So, stay tuned as I bring things up to date.

Fifty and Counting

Happy 50th Birthday

I Am Now

18,263 Days Old

438,312 Hours Old

26,298,720 Minutes Old

1,577,923,200 Seconds Old

But Who's Counting

Well..... I made it. I'm FIFTY!!!! A.M.A.Z.I.N.G! I just have one quick question. How did this happen? Didn't I just graduate from high school? It doesn't seem like so much time has already pased. Let me just state that I am stoked to be fifty. I remember a time when fifty seemed old. It certainly doesn't seem that way now. In fact, in many ways I feel as if my life is just starting. Let me share some highlights of my special day.

The girls had been asking me what I wanted for my birthday for several months leading up to June. I was specific about wanting a bike. With all the weight I lost, I really wanted to get a bike and start riding on the Heritage Rail Trail here in York County. I had been walking it for a while, I figured biking it would be an enjoyable activity. Due to conflicting schedules, they asked about grilling and having some cake the day after my birthday. That was just fine with me since I didn't want them to make a "big deal" out of it. Everything was set........ Yeah, right!

The girls did it. They managed to pull off a party.... and I honestly didn't see it coming. I had been running errands on my birthday. As the afternoon progressed, the possibility of going to dinner with a friend presented itself. I had started getting ready for that when I received a phone call from Brie's boyfriend, Braxton. He wished me a happy birthday and asked if he and Brie could celebrate by taking me to dinner. I couldn't tell him no. 

We left the house and as we drove I kept wondering where we were going to eat. We went past Chili's, Olive Garden, Smokey Bones, Friendly's, Cheddar's, Red Lobster, Fiesta Mexico, Lone Star Steak House, Outback Steak House, and just about every other eatery I could think of. When we got off of Rt. 30 at Mt. Zion Road, I finally asked where we were heading. They said we were going to a little pub in Mount Wolf. Ok, I'm a sucker.... I totally believed them. Before I knew it we had turned onto a side road that headed to Rocky Ridge Park. I asked what we were doing and Brie said she wanted to take a walk with me before dinner. By this time I was beginning to suspect something was up, but when we entered the parking area, I didn't see any cars I recognized. We started walking toward the pavilions when I finally saw where we were headed. They did it! It was a celebration for me!!!! I totally lost it and started to cry. I truly was surprised. 

It was a super fun party. It was nice seeing how much planning Emile had put into making my day special. She had hung pictures all around the pavilion. There were a lot of  "subtle" reminders of what fifty looks and feels like (SO sweet), and had even had a custom cake baked for the party. At the back of the pavilion was the absolute bestest gift.... a BIKE!!!

 It's a 3-speed retro cruiser bike... and as cute as can be. I love, love, love it!! And it looks darling on the back of  Little Red. 

Now all I have to do is start riding. Yay!!!!!! I also received a bike rack, a gift certificate for a Paint Nite session and for a salon visit to Bella Dzyns, gift cards, and a picture collage of me and my wonderful sisters. I couldn't have asked for more.

Thanks, Pablo, Emile, Brie, Wesley, Braxton, Cindy, Keith, Michael, Sara, Alexandra, Isabel, Landon, Jamie, Zane, Ewan, Abric, Isla, Mike, Angie, and everyone else who were with us in spirit. You all made my birthday rock!

Fifty and counting....... Bring it on.

BLT Reunion 2014 ~ Part 1

It's that time of year again. The annual BLT Reunion just wrapped up. What a great reunion it was. This is the first one I've attended in a few years. Due to health issues as well as work schedule conflicts, I wasn't there. Emile and Brie, however, were able to go. I will honestly say that I'm glad I made it a priority to attend this year. It was great seeing everyone. You seem to forget how much you have missed people until you see them again.

This year our family decided to stay at Lake Anna in Mineral, VA. It was a much closer location for those of us in PA, was a bit more centrally located for all family members, and the price was better. On the way to VA, we made detour and ended up going to Luray Caverns. I had heard about it numerous times, however, I had never had the opportunity to go there. What a beautiful place.

Luray Caverns was discovered on August 13, 1878. The vast underground cavern contains stalactites, stalagmites, speleothems, flowstone, an underground mirrored lake, a "wishing well," and the Great Stalacpipe Organ.

The wishing well is just that. People close their eyes, make a wish, and toss a coin (or bill) into the well. Periodically the well is "emptied" and the money is sent to various charities. There is a sign hanging above the well outlining exactly where the money went, including the amounts. Pretty cool!

The Great Stalacpipe Organ

When we were on the tour, the guide told us that there have been several weddings held in the cavern. We were able to listen to essentially a "player" type musical piece while we were in the area of the organ. AMAZING!!

One other very special part of the cavern was the Veterans Memorial. Those men who served or lost their lives from Page County, Virginia, are remembered.

There is honestly no way to describe how spectacular Luray Caverns are. I have never before seen such beauty in the form I saw underground. I suppose it's another example of how much we "miss" when we don't stop and take the time to explore what we have been blessed with here on earth. Who knows, maybe someday I'll make a trip back to explore Luray with my future grandchildren....

BLT Reunion 2014 ~ Part 2

 As I began to share in Part 1, the BLT Reunion took place a short time ago.

This year's gathering was held at Lake Anna. It was a positively gorgeous location. Unfortunately we had a lot of rain the majority of the time, but that didn't dampen our spirits. We still found plenty to do. It was so great to be with the majority of our family members. Those who were unable to attend this year were missed. It's always nice to have time together. 

The way we "run" the reunion is pretty cool. Two families sign up to provide one meal. That's the only meal you have to worry about preparing, serving, and cleaning up after. It goes without saying though that everyone is willing to pitch in and help as needed. Emile and I signed up for Saturday morning breakfast. We served a continental style breakfast. The night before we left for Lake Anna, we baked a variety of muffins. In addition to that we served various hot and cold cereals, yogurts, applesauce, fresh fruits, juices, and hot cocoas. Being the "overachiever" I am, I had to make sure that everything not only tasted good, but also looked appealing. Everyone seemed to enjoy what was offered, and there was plenty left over to "munch on" throughout the weekend. Next year I plan on doing the same thing. I love serving the first morning....

Some of the highlights of the reunion include the family meeting we hold. It's a nice opportunity for everyone to be "updated" on events that have taken place during the previous year. As I already mentioned, we were missing a few loved ones. Teresa's husband, Lee, Cindy's husband, Keith, Ben, Anya, and their three kiddos, Tony, and Corey, were unable to attend. In all fairness, it wasn't until I was on my way to this years reunion that it dawned on me that we have never invited Corey (our dad's son from his second marriage) to join us for the BLT. We discussed it at the family meeting and everyone agreed that Corey (and his soon to be wife, Mallory) is absolutely going to be invited to attend from this point forward. He is a part of our family as well.... and we want him to be included in more family gatherings. I really hope they are able to join us next year.

From B-Brenda, L-Lucinda, and T-Teresa, you get the picture of what the future is looking like. These little ones are the third generation.... the ones who will someday, hopefully, continue with the tradition which was started a few years ago. If I have to count correct, we "officially" have 46 family members (strictly from we three sisters, and our two brothers). As the years pass those numbers are going to grow, and obviously as some of us pass away, the numbers will also shrink. But how cool is it to see our posterity all together like this?!! To make it a priority to gather together, to visit, play games, enjoy being entertained by the talented "little ones," watch movies, share meals, reminisce, and make new memories is really what family is about. Next year will bring new opportunities. Some will be missing (due to possible work assignments, missions, personal challenges), but we will still carry on the gathering... We will celebrate all that makes us the wonderful family we are.