Heifer

I sent $327 to Heifer International today, which provided a goat, a pig, a flock of chicks, a trio of rabbits and $7 where needed. Thanks to all for helping make this a nice Christmas celebration for our family. We love you.

J.T.

This is the latest on J.T. per Sharon Waff:

Uncle JT has been moved to a nursing home in Jacksonville, doing much better, but has a long ways to go. Mom (Ima Jean) went last weekend, said he could actually communicate with them one on one. They had a nice visit!

Merry Christmas

Again Merry Christmas to you all. Gene and I leave tomorrow. here is our schedule Tuesday night - Howie and Lol, leave Wednesday morning going to Macon to be with Chris' family at Beverly's (Michelle's mother) and then we leave the morning after Christmas and will stop in Hickory to spend the night with Howie's family. It's just too far to make the trip in one day. Don't know why I give you our schedule, because you know that we can be reached on our cell phones, wherever we are.

Christmas

It was great seeing everyone on Saturday and missed those who weren't able to come.
I hope you have a very Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

Family Christmas Gathering

Everyone is invited to the Summerlin home on Saturday, December 19. We will TRY to eat around 1:00. Everyone is asked to bring a dessert if they like or nothing at all if they like or anything they like, except Terri. She is asked to bring her delicious lasagna if she has time. I'm sure in her line of business, it's very busy this time of year.

We will pool our monies that everyone has been deligently collecting and send it to the Heifer Organization. This is totally voluntary and people can give or not and certainly not feel guilty. If one prefers to donate their money to another place, that's fine. It's Christmas. Everyone can do whatever makes them feel good inside. I feel that our families have been so blessed that we might just try this for a year.

I'm looking forward to seeing everyone on the 19th.

PS Did I leave anything out?

Byrum Christmas

Christie, I'm not posting this because of your question to Joyce, but opened the blogg to do so anyway. Lol had suggested today that I post what I know. There seems to be some confusion about our Christmas get together. We are meeting at Joyces on Saturday, December 19. Joyce says we'll plan to eat around 1 pm. Joyce is doing the main course (ham, I remember)and vegetables. She wants everyone to bring something that does not have to be reheated. It is just too confusing if everyone has to heat up their dish. Bertha is bringing either potato salad or her marinated vegetables and a dessert. I'm bringing my congelled cranberry salad and dessert. As usual, I'm sure we'll have lots of desserts. As far as gifts, children under the age of 18 will receive gifts. We will be collecting money to send to Heifer International. No gag gifts this year. I feel like I'm forgetting something, but maybe Joyce can add to this.

Happy Belated Birthday Aunt Joyce! Hope you had a great weekend with everyone!

What's the scoop for Christmas get together?

Joyce's Birthday

Bertha, Cathy and I are going to spend tomorrow night with Joyce to celebrate her birthday. We won't be staying too late on Saturday because Joyce has let us know she wants us to leave in time for her to take a nap before going out with girl friends on Saturday. I'm looking forward to being with them.

Happy Thanksgiving to everyone. Chris and his family should be here in about 45 min to an hour. Still trying to talk Joan and Dad into driving to Suffolk to meet us to come here for dinner on Thursday, but have not been successful yet. Gobble, Gobble to all. I'm sure you all feel as thankful as I do. I'm thankful for each of you in my life. Wish we could all be together. But we will on the 19th. Hope everyone is planning how to raise their funds for the charity.

J.T. Layton

I'm not sure who I've spoken to this about, so I decided to blog. Uncle J.T., mama's brother who lives in Jacksonville, NC, got in an automobile accident about a month ago. He hit his head and cracked the glass. Even though he appeared unhurt, while walking around, he collapsed. It has now been determined that he had a massive stroke. He's paralyzed on the right side. A stomach feeding tube has been inserted but has been giving him some trouble (unless they feed him very slowly, he throws it back up). He's not talking much, but once when he was about to throw up after been fed, he said "Oh sh__" - one of mom's words of frustration. He is also having physical therapy. He is in a Wilmington, NC hospital. Please keep him and the family in your prayers. I get my info from Ima Jean who feels that Steve may have unrealistic expectations.

nest

Goodness, Gracious, Sakes Alive! Congratulation, Jeremy and Cathy!!!!

Isom Update

I'm back on the nest!

Wedding

These are some pictures taken at Diane(Jeremy's Mom) and Tom's wedding this past weekend. Ridge was the ring bearer and Savannah, the flower girl. They did great and were so cute.

Email address

Christie, what is your email address. Thanks. Margaret

Christmas charity

When we think about where to make our donation for Christmas, there are thousands of places that we could help. But since it's Joyce's year to decide what we are doing, and she suggested Heifer Int'l, I think that what we should do. Next year we can donate to another charity. I know some in the family have never heard of this organization. My church has a Alternative Christmas Gift Fair each year and Heifer has been one of the charities that we assist. Our fair is November 15 and there was a flyer in the bulletin today concerning two of the charities that we assist. Even though I have purchased gifts from Heifer for several years, I learned a number of things that I did not know. I would like to share with you what the flyer said. "Heifer Int'l is a nonprofit that alleviates hunger, poverty, and environmental degradation through training and gifts of food and income-producing farm aninals to small-scale farmers and communities worldwide. These animals provide a source of protein, such as eggs and milk, for children, and generate income for families through the sale of animal products.

Heifer began when a Midwestern farmer named Dan West was ladling out rations of milk to hungry children during the Spanish Civil War. He realized: "These children don't need a cup, they need a cow."

West returned home to form Heifers for Relief, dedicated to ending hunger permanently by providing families with livestock and training so that they "could be spared the indignity of depending on others to feed their children".

That's because each family receiving a heifer agrees to "pass on the gift" and donate the femaile offspring to another family, so that the gift of food is never-ending.

This simple idea of giving families a source of food rather than short-term relief caught on and has continued for over 60 years. Since 1944, Heifer has helped 8.5 million people in more than 125 countries.

At our Alternative Christmas Gift Fair on November 15, you can make a gift toward the purchase of a goat, a cow, rabbits, chicks, or many other animals in honor of a friend or relative. You will receive a card to notify your honoree of your gift, and you will give the gift of hope to a hungry, destitute family. (this is a quote to the members of our church)

Don't think that I'm suggesting that we do this through my church, but just wanted to share the info that I got today.

As I mentioned before, I think we should make our donation in memory of Ed, Gloria and Mama, unless Joyce thinks otherwise.

Good night to all.

America's Invisible Children

500,000 American children under the age of 5 are homeless. 21 percent of of homeless children repeat a grade because of attendance issues.

I read an article with many statistics about these children. Since there was some discussion about keeping our project funds in the USA, maybe we should consider this project. Can you imagine Emma, Clay, Savannah, Ridge, Cayden, Kara, Cortlyn, Mandy, Amber N, Amber E., Kyle, or Chris being one of these children and living in a homeless shelter? Only 24 percent homeless children live in shelters. 22 percent are separated from their family and are put in foster care within a single year.

I haven't as of yet, but let's all research americasinvisiblechildren.com or familyhomelessness.org before we make a final decision where our "FAMILY" will send our group project funds this Christmas.

Copied from "Mission Leader" magazine published by the Woman's Missionary Union in Birmingham, AL.

Camping

I have a great idea for camping next year! Jason, Shaun, Christie, kids, & I went camping last weekend at Green Acres in Williamston. They have 2 weekends in October that has a Halloween theme. They have lots of activities on Saturday (pumpkin carving contest, crafts, costume contest & parade, carnival, trick r treating, and more). We had a great time and thought that might be an option for next year.

REMEMBERING ED, GLORIA, and MAMA

Last weekend after making the decision concerning gift giving for Christmas this year to donate to Heifer (sp) International, on the way home, I said to Gene that I thought that it would be nice to make our family (Layton-Byrum family) donation in memory of Ed and Gloria. Now that I think about it, I guess we should also add Mama's name in that also. If anyone has any feelings about that, you can blog your opinion.

Remembering Ed

Even after all this time

The sun never says to the earth, "You owe me."

Look what happens with a Love like that!

—It lights the whole Sky. (Hafiz)

Remembering Ed

Had a truck driver make a delivery to the shop last week. He is a black man who farms some on the side. We do a job for him, maybe once a year. He asked, "Mr Ed not in today?" I had to tell him that Ed passed away on Sept 23. He said, "I'm sorry to hear that." He then put his head down on the counter and when he raised it, with tears in his eyes, said, "I fell in love with that man 18 years ago." I know how he feels.

Dad's 89th Bday Celebration

Enjoyed celebrating Dad's bday with all who could come. Dad is doing very well I think. He's had a tough year, but has rallied back well. All had a good time with Cayden and Kara Rayne!

POSSIBLE Layton Christmas Gathering

Aunt Ima Jean Waff for some number of years has been inviting all the Laytons to her house on the first Sunday in December. She (or Maurice) announced that last year would be the last at her house. There is "some talk" about the Laytons gathering at a catered lunch on the first Sunday at Nixon's catering on Highway 32 (near Cherry Welding). How many are interested?

Kyle's soccer game

Concerning my trip to Hickory, I talked about Amber's performance in her cross country meet, but failed to mention Kyle's soccer game. His team did win 10 to 0. Anyone who know soccer, knows that ten goals in a game is unusual. His coach did not allow his team to run up the score. The score could have been 20 - 25 to 0. Team members who usually offense played defense and members who usually play defense got to play offense. The goalie even scored a goal. Kyle, who usually plays defense did not score, but did get a few shots on goal. Once when he started to shoot on goal, said that he remembered that they were only to shoot on goal with their non- dominate leg.

I felt sorry for the other team. When Kyle's team played this team before, Kyle scored his first goal.

Howie got to come to this game. His team did not have practice or a game that day.

Ed's Birthday

Joyce, Hope you had a good time last night. You know that you are in our minds today. I think the "first of anything" birthdays, holidays, etc is especially hard. If knowing that others care, I know that you know that all of your family and many friends also do care. Always feel free to contact me if there is anything that I can do. Love ya,

Amber's Run

I have been using the word "Track" Amber is actually running Cross Country. Their meet was 2 miles. Amber had said that she wanted to be in the top 12 because they got recognition. She actually came in 9th. Afterwards, she said that she had set a goal for herself to come in the top 10. There were 88 girls running. Her time was 14 min 8 seconds. Not only did she get a medal, but the team came in first place. This was their campionship meet. She came in 4th place with the girls from her school. She was very pleased and we were very proud of her. Howie so wished that he could have been there, but his girl's soccer team had a game at the same time. He had Lol text him her results. Amber's coach was very pleased. This was his first year being coach, he had been assistant coach last year. Her season for school is over, but her coach says he's trying to set up some meets with some private schools.

The school that was their real competion was wearing dark blue. She had told me that the coach had told them said that if they could pass one of them to try to do so. On the home streach she was behind a girl from that school, she started gaining on her and I yelled, Amber you can do it and sure enough she did beat her by 3 seconds. She said that when she went by her, the girls said "NO".

Amber beat her best time by 30 seconds. I know it's only a sport, but you just feel so pleased for them when they try so hard. It's such an individual sport as well as being a team sport.

Hickory Visit

I'm leaving for Hickory in the morning. Amber has done very well and has place 11th or 12th in all of her track meets. Tomorrow afternoon is her last one, so I wanted to go see her compete. I will be coming back Thursday morning. Kyle has a soccer game on Wednesday afternoon so I'm staying for that also. Invited Joyce to go with me, but it did not work out this time. I'm staying too long and she would just be getting home from helping Kathy with the twins on Monday.

Kara

Kara Rayne was born Friday, October 2 at 12:53p.m. Weighing only 5lbs 7ozs and being 19 1/2" long. She is TINY but has long fingers and toes. She's eating well but did not sleep well her first night at home. Last night, however, she slept from 12:30 til 5:30. I'll try to attach a picture but it was taken with my cellphone so not sure how well it will look.

birthday

Happy 67th Birthday, Margaret! Wish you many many many more!

Kara Rayne

Welcome to our world, Kara Rayne (Rain), born today @ 12:53 to Ashley and Nick. 19 1/2" long, little over 5 lbs. (Text didn't include weight and I can't remember.) She beautiful and already a good eater!

Father

Our dear father "Cecil Bud" will be celebrating his 89th birthday on October 22. Any suggestions for a family gathering?

Richard Earl

Christie called to say that her dad, Richard Earl, fell off a ladder in the hog house this morning and fractured his pelvis in 2 places. Home on bed rest, although not complete bed rest. Complete bed rest might cause a blood clot, quoting Christie, quoting Richard, quoting a doctor. She also said, he said, "I ain't taking no pain pills." She said, "We'll see"

The reason that I'm writing is that she said that she wouldn't get the chance to blog til Monday.

Caring Bridge post

I think everyone is familar with "Caring Bridge, where people who are sick or have family members who are sick can post the updates. As Tommy's son has cancer, they post updates often. I have just read the following posted by Linda, Tommy Summerlin's wife.
"On a sad note, Uncle Eddie past away last Wed. Tom went over to be with the family in North Carolina and got back late Tue. night. Uncle Eddie was very special to all of us. Our best vacations were with Uncle Eddie, Aunt Joyce, Barry and Cathy. He was one of a kind, and will be missed by his family, his employees, & customers. If God needs anything fixed, he now has the right person to fix it. We love you."

As I drove back home to Sanford last night, I couldn't help but think about all the wonderful things our family has done for us over the last week. You all deserve a big thank you for being there when we needed you. Bertha and Margaret were especially good to us in every way imaginable from hemming pants to cleaning toilets to sharing memories. The music at the service was perfect thanks to Ben's generous sharing of his musical talent. Grandaddy was there to share his quick wit for a laugh even when he had to stay up way past his bedtime. Hannah and Christie came early to help with arrangements including printing photos for the collage. Chris helped in a way he's not aware by handing me a little package of tissue before the service. That tissue kept Ridge and Savannah occupied for part of the funeral. (Thanks to someone who cleaned it up!) Ricky picked up socks for Ridge to wear to the funeral and (for the rest of our time in RR which we needed). Everyone helped care for our kids when our attention could not be on them. I'm sure there are others who went out of their way to help, and I'm sorry to not mention everyone!

We appreciate all of you that came to celebrate Dad's life and mourn his passing. It felt wonderful to have all of your support, and I know Dad would have been happy to see how much you cared.

Family

I'm sending love, kisses and tight hugs to all of you!!! :~)

New Camping Date?

I will list some items that I have packed that I believe Joyce usually brings
electric fry pan, fry pan, another pan, tea pot for heating water
cooking utinsels, dish cloths, dish towels, pot holder, dish pan, matches

CAMPING

Another thought about camping - those with children may want to bring some cereal. That way if they get hungry before things are cooked, there will be something for them to eat.

CAMPING

Howie and I have both been negligent in stating what we will bring camping this weekend. We have talked and I'll list what we will be bringing

Howie - Bacon, 2 doz eggs, bread, juice, milk, cooking utensils, Ingredients for S'mores
Margaret - Bacon, 2 doz eggs, bread, butter, fruit, coffee, cooking utensils, sugar, ketchup, mayo, mustard.

Since Joyce and Ed usually supplies things like cooking pans, dishpans, we may all need to think about brings some of these things.

If there is anything else that we need to bring, someone give me a shout.

Look forward to seeing all.

Summerlin Family

Well, the original 4 Summerlins are here in Roanoke Rapids hoping for a miracle but expecting the end. Yesterday, Dad did not do a whole lot of talking some of which made sense and some did not. He slept well through the night on the couch with Mom by his side in the recliner. He has been slightly agitated this morning...seems to be still fighting with all his might, but he hasn't said much today. The hospice nurse came and said she was surprised to see him still alive today. We all know he is a tough guy. He is resting peacefully for now.

Keep us in your prayers (and Jeremy, too, who is keeping the babies).

As I'm sure everyone is aware, the only contribution to the camping weekend that Joyce will be able to do is having the membership and making the reservation. Joyce also made that clear today when Gene and I visited. I will be responsible for collecting funds and paying the bill as Joyce has done in the past.
Ed didn't do much talking today, although, he did thank us for coming. He also said there was a lot of traveling, mileage (don't remember his exact words) being done. I forget what my answer was but after thinking about it one the way home, I now have a response. We don't have any choice because they do not live closer to all of us. We don't have any other choice because that is how our family is. When people that we love are hurting, we help in any way that we can. Gene and I were talking on the way home and about all the members of our family and how blessed we all are and that Dad must be very proud of us all. I am very pleased to be a part of the Byrum/Layton family and am so proud of each one of you. I love each of you and look forward to being with most next weekend. Those of you who will not be there, know that you will be missed - Terri, Jack, Ben, Ashley, Cory and Caden and especially Joyce and Ed. (hope I didn't leave anyone out)

Camping

Christie,
I hope you didn't get cups yet. We picked up a box of 240 plastic cups and a pack of 160 coffe cups with lids at Sam's the other day.

In addition to the things listed in my previous post and the line above, we also picked up/will bring bowls. I know someone will be bringing brunswick stew and chili usually appears as well.

Okay, I think I've listed everything we're bringing. Sorry for the confusion. Look forward to seeing everyone next weekend.

Chris

I'll bring bacon and eggs as well. Will also bring cups.

Camping

Joyce, is the cabin with pet ours? Just want to make sure. Could you let us know if one of the spots for tents is ours as well? Just want to make sure what you need us to cover.
We will bring plates, napkins, paper towels, plastic flatware and dish detergent. We had planned on bringing hotdogs and buns and still can if you'd like us to.

Talk to y'all soon.

Chris

Camp Out

I will bring:
enough hot dogs, rolls, onions for lunch on Saturday.
30 sausages
2 doz eggs

Everyone bring something sweet and their own choices of chips.

What's the total head count, so I'll know how many hotdogs.

Is this correct?
Chris B 5
Margaret 2
Howard 4
Christie 3
Hannah 4
Bertha 2
Dad 2
Barry 2
Cathy 2+
Total 26?

Camping

This is what has been reserved. I hope it is sufficient.

1 cabin, no pet $126.07Total
1 cabin, w/pet $134.90Total

3 campsites == cost is $32 per night, $192.00Total Those attending can decide how to split this cost, whether by family or by tent or whatever. It might be easier to tent camp in the sites without electricity so that everyone can camp together.

I haven't been able to get a cost of the meal yet.

Ed is doing fair but does get quite demanding at times (remember that term, Margaret?)

Thanks to all for prayers, cards and food.

Kiss the summer "good bye"

Since fall is upon us, IF I AM HOME THIS FRIDAY, we'll kiss the summer good bye with our annual "Kiss the summer good bye" wienner roast. 6:30 RSVP

Crazy Clay & His Clan

Who remembers when Clay used to be this sweet, quite, timid child? That is all changing!!! Check out these pictures of Clay & his crazy friends. Some are of Clay's birthday party last week, others are from a baseball game on Saturday.

Camping

Hey everyone! It's time to coordinate who will bring what.
Don't forget it's the Luau Fall Festival that weekend, so bring your grass shirts!
Below I have included a list of things that I think we will need and usually have. If you see that I forgot something, please add it in. Love to all and see ya in 2 weeks. The Jones family is really looking forward to it especially since we missed last year!

Friday Night - On your own

Saturday & Sunday - Breakfast:
Bacon, Sausage, & Eggs - Enough for both days (Bertha-30 sausages; 2doz eggs)(Christie)
Bread (for toast & french toast) (Hannah)
Cinnamon & Vanilla (Hannah)
Syrup (Hannah)
Juice
Milk
Butter
Cooking Spray (Hannah)
Fruit
Coffee

Saturday - Lunch
Hotdogs (Bertha)
Beans
Chili (Hannah)
Onions (Bertha)
Hotdog Buns (Bertha)
Chips (Hannah-2 bags)

Saturday - Dinner
Luau Fall Festival Dinner (BBQ) at the Clubhouse

Other Items:
Plates (Michelle)
Cups (Christie)
Napkins (Michelle)
Paper Towels (Michelle)
Eating Utensils (Michelle)
Cooking Utensils
Dish washing liquid (Michelle)
Salt & Pepper (Hannah)
Sugar
Ketchup, Mayo, Mustard
Ingredients for S'mores
Sweets (Everyone)

Hopefully, I have everything! See ya soon!

More Info

Hey gang!
We got back a few hours ago (well, more than that) from spending the week in Kitty Hawk with Mom and Dad. Despite the crappy weather and the kids being sick half the time, I think everyone had a good time. For me, I think the highlight of the trip was going on a tour up around Corolla and getting to see the wild, Spanish mustangs. It was a neat and educational trip. I recommend it!!!! And, we have decided that, when traveling north on I-95, we have to schedule our movement around times that will put us around Selma (exit 97) to eat lunch or dinner at the Pizza Inn, although I'm sure there are Pizza Inns elsewhere that have the same menu.
If you have a Facebook account, I currently have the pictures from the horse tour posted in an album there and will post others from our trip as time allows. The horse foundation website is: www.corollawildhorses.com

As for camping, we will be needind a cabin and probably some room for Chris and Kyle (maybe our girls) to set up a tent at the campsite. Sorry for the late notice.

Enjoyed talking to Granddaddy Friday after his surgery. He sounded great and, from what I hear, is doing extremely well now. Mom's been keeping me up to date on the soap opera as it's passed to her on facebook/cell phone.

Look forward to seeing everyone in a couple of weeks.

Dad

Dad is still doing well. He plans to go home this weekend. Uncle Weldon and Aunt Margie Ann have called often to check on him. He has called Joan daily, but she has only called him once to check on him. Their relationship is still stressed. Discussions over children and money have been the factors. Joan believes that we (Margaret and Bertha) are trying to keep him from home. She can't seem to understand that we feel we can care for Dad better at my house. We do feel that Dad is recovering well. If he was home, he would still feel obligated to wait on her. At 88, and following surgery, we just feel that he doesn't need to be waiting on anyone. He is welcome to stay at my house as long as he needs or wants to.

We had a nice dinner with Clay and family on his 7th birthday. Three of his ball team members, Emma and Amber, with parents all went to Pizza Hut. School has good well thus far and we have been enjoying the cooler weather even though it's been wet.

Dad

Dad is having a great day. And Amber is pushing me to get off the computer, so BYE!

Dad's surgery

Bertha called a bit ago and said that Dad's surgery went well, nurse said he was a model patient. He is sleeping and, barring complications, will be released today.

Grandaddy's Surgery

Per Bertha-----Grandaddy has to be at the hospital tomorrow morning at 7:45a.m. His gall bladder surgery will be performed laproscopically. Afterwards, he will be staying at Bertha & Ricky's for recovery period. That's all I know. Margaret is staying with him tonight and I assume will be taking him to hospital in the morning.

Update

Well, as y'all know, I've been home a couple of weeks. Trying (unsuccessfully) to keep myself disciplined to some sort of schedule now that I'm on 30 days leave until mid September. Will try to start running again tomorrow. I've been a little sore after working in the garden the past 3 days.

It was good to see the Summerlins(x5), Ricky and Bertha and Granddaddy a couple of weekends ago. Had to miss out on Ralph's, though, given we had Kayla with us.

We're trying to find a dog-sitter for Kayla for the camping weekend. Will get back to you on this. We plan on coming if we can. Will send reservation #'s for that weekend ASAP. Can't wait to see everyone.

Cecil Bud

Dad is scheduled for gall bladder surgery on Friday, September 4. No time is known as of yet.

Camping

I need to know how many campsites and rental units to reserve. I haven't done anything yet as I could not reserve more than 30 days in advance. I feel sure that Ed will not be up to going. We do get out on occasion but not for very long as it wears him out. He continues to get weaker. We have hired a manager for the shop which has been difficult, probably for him more than us as Ed is not able to help him very much. Everyone at the shop is pulling together to make it work and for them we are very thankful.

Happy Birthday, Cayden.

Glad to hear....

Welcome Home Chris! Glad to hear you had a safe return! Does this mean you will be joining us for our annual campout??

Congratulations Howie! Glad to hear you had a succesful operation and everything's doing well!

Glad to hear------that school starts back tomorrow!!!!!

Chris is home!!

Don't know whether everyone got the news or not. Chris got home today early in morning. He had today off, but will have to go in for at least half a day for about two weeks for what I'll call debriefing, probably wrong word. Then he'll have about 30 days off. I think I've gotten this right. We appreciate all of the prayers for his safe return. We're looking forward to seeing him.

I talked to Ed this morning. He sounded as if he felt better. Cathy told Howie and Lol that he has something to help him sleep and with being able to sleep more, he's feeling better.

Post Surgery update

First I would like to thank Jeremy and Cathy for hosting Lol and I last night. We had a great time visiting and playing with the twins. The surgery was an apparent success. I had a rough time after the surgery due to the anastesia. Felt very woosy and I do not remember much about Lol and the nurse talking. I went back this morning for the post-op. meeting and the Dr. said everything looks good so far. The pressure is right where he wants it to be. I go back next Wednesday for my next follow up. He said we will know in 4-6 weeks wether my vision will get back to normal or not. Keep your fingers crossed.

Howie

Surgery Update

I found out this afternoon that my eye surgery has been scheduled for Wednesday morning sometime between 8:30 and 12:30. I have to call Tuesday Afternoon and they will tell me the exact time. After the first 2 surgeries I had to go back the next morning first thing and I am assuming this will be the same. I am going to get a hotel room for Wednesday/Wednesday night so Lol and I will stay over night in Durham so that we will not have to drive back to Hickory Wednesday afternoon and then back at the crack of dawn on Thursday. I will post a Post-surgery blog one the deed is done. No gorry stuff since it offends some people (Cathy)

Howie

Doctor's visit

So why did Cathy have to call me out like that? No stitches, needles, or blood today. :)
After doing several tests and talking with the doctor, it appears that I will have another surgery on my left eye in the next 2 weeks. By the time we got back to Hickory, the doctor had already called and said he was going to do the procedure in Durham. As it turns out, my current doctor trained under this specialists. He is going to do a simple procedure, just one stitch this time and hopefully increase the pressure and straighten out the nerves or whatever in the back of my eye. He said there is about a 70% chance of success, let's hope I fall into that 70%. He also prescibed another drop for my right eye to get the pressure down. He said once the left eye is healed, a surgery will have to be performed on my right eye. If all goes well, the second surgery will happen at the end of September or the beginning of October. I guess the phrase "No pain No Gain" truly fits for me. I will keep everyone updated as I should find out the exact date of the surgery tomorrow or Monday.
Kyle is having a good time at team soccer camp, even got his head shaved by the seniors. He, the other 2 freshmen and the 3 sophmores are actually playing for another team from the next county over. His team is loaded with Juniors and Seniors and the young guys were not getting any playing time in the scrimmages. He is playing a lot, but the team is apparently really bad as he said they have lost every game by at least 4 goals.
Hope Uncle Ed is not feeling too rough and hope he and Joyce can make the camping trip.

Howie

Everyone seems to need a little pick me up these days....so I'll share my positive news for the day. Savannah went poopy in the potty today!

Please keep us up to date on all the hospital/doctor visits, but spare us the gruesome details (Howard...)

Love to all.

Cecil Bud

Talked to Bertha a little bit ago. Daddy had his stress test today and since has been disoriented and unsteady on his feet. Robert (Joan's son-in-law who is an EMT) checked him out and suggested calling 911 for transport to ER. That is all I know as yet.

Ed has not been able to work this week and is tiring more easily.

Howard has an appointment at Duke for consultation on his eye problem.

Hannah is scheduled for surgery tomorrow morning.

Pray, pray, and then pray some more.

Correctin On Chris' Travel Agenda

As of today, Tue., 7/28, Chris' time line has changed. Due to security measures, he has requested that any previous, projected time line not be repeated. In his words, "He feels safer that way"
Thanks

Chris coming home - Hannah Cyst

It looks like Chris will be coming home a little early. He says he's to fly out the day before his and Michelle's church wedding, which was July 31. He flys to Kuwait, be there a few days and then home. Pray for his safe return.

We also need to keep Hannah in prayer. She was in emergency room last night, but another cyst on her overies. She and family were to go to Georgia, but due to her problem, they will not be going. I'm sure Bertha will give a better view of what is going on when she can.

Babies on Cadillac

It's about that time again!!!

Hello Everyone!
Hope everyone is doing well and enjoying their summer. It is about that time again to start looking forward to the Griswald Family Camping Trip!!! At this point we need to start looking at our calendars and see what's good for late September & October. We also need to decide where we will be going. I am up for keeping it @ Outdoor World or venturing off into new lands. In the next week or two I will research and see what other campgrounds are in the central locations for us all. Look at your schedules and email me @ hjones@ncnortheast.com and I post what weekends are best for the majority of the group. I guess it's time for the 2nd generation to take control and little B is up for the job!

Looking forward to hearing from you!

Hannah

Mrs. Ervin

I'm not sure if this is appropriate to post on the blog but just thought I'd let everyone know that Shawn's grandma Ervin passed away yesterday morning. Funeral services will be held at Edenton Baptist Church on Saturday, July 11 at 11:00. She is being cremated. The family is doing well. It was not unexpected as she was experiencing kidney failure and had a DNR which kept the family from putting her on dialysis. She has been extremely lonely since Mr. Ervin passed away; not for lack of visitors. She had plenty of those but she truly missed Mr. Ervin. Anyway, just thought I'd let everyone know.

Babies' Visit

Unless Cathy and Jeremy change their minds, the babies will be staying with us on Monday and Tuesday, 29&30. If anyone wants to visit, let us know.

Ed is doing okay but has stated that he has decided not to go the chemo route. He has his good days and not so good days and nights. We'll just continue to pray that things will work out for the best. Thanks for everyone's thoughts and prayers.

We were glad to hear that it won't be long before Chris will be state-side and we can all breathe a little easier.

Camping trick to try??

Maybe we could try this at our next camping outing to cut down on food prep time???

WE had a great time at Bertha and Rick's today. Thanks for all that you two do for our family. Summerlins, sorry we did not get to see all of you. See you soon.

Sad story. Great (but sad) movie.

http://www.ocregister.com/articles/pixar-up-movie-2468059-home-show.htm

DAD

Dad went to the cardiologist, Dr. Smith from Greenville, yesterday. This is what I believed that he said:
"The blood work that was done while Dad was in the hospital indicated that he had a heart attack on Monday, 5/4/09. The enzymes in the blood is how they determine a heart attack. BUT when a patient is sick like Dad was, with his pulse (heartbeat) racing like his was, the heart can seep these enzymes without really having a heart attack. IF it was a heart attack, it was small. But before he can determine if Dad's heart is strong enough for his gall bladder to be removed, he suggested a stress test. This is a sitting down test, not the normal walking on an incline test. Dad opted to have it in Edenton the next date Dr. Smith is in town which is July 28 @ 8am even though he could have had it in Greenville next week. If this test goes well, he will give Dad the "go ahead" to have the gall bladder removed. His EKG looked fine yesterday as it did two weeks ago with Dr. Hasket. His heartbeat is still a little slow, but Dr. Smith said that going into surgery with a slow heart beat is better so he didn't change any of his medicines."

When Dad came out of his door to get in the car with Amber, Clay, Emma and I, Emma said, "Woo Hoo, Granddaddy looks nice". I guess our closet cleanout day was a success! Hannah kept the kids while we went to the doctor.

See you all Sunday.

Community Music & Water Festival

Just in case anyone is interested....Edenton is having their annual Community Music and Water Festival this weekend. It starts on Friday night at 6 (I believe) and continues through Saturday. Various musicians, most local and some not. Kids activities and boating things. Everything is free except the food.

email addresses?

Cathy and Joyce, I tried to email you both today and the email was returned as Invalid Recipient. Do you have a new email address?

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY CATHY & JEREMY

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY TO CATHY AND JEREMY!!!  Hope you are able to have some fun.  You deserve it.

End of School

Not sure about others, but for Chowan County the last day of school is Wednesday, June 10th. Still trying to make plans for Emma since the summer care she had last year is no longer an option. She is signed up for some day camps but nothing long term. She'll be staying with Connie (Shawn's mom) on Tuesdays and will be coming to work with me at least one day a week. I have asked Jack's niece if she would be interested in keeping her for two days a week but haven't heard back from her yet sooooooo I guess that would be a "no". I don't work on Wednesday's and Friday's so if anyone is coming this way and wants to make plans with us, please remember these days.

Hope everything goes well with whatever decision you make Uncle Eddie.

Aunt Joyce: I did get the message you left on my answering machine and I apologize for not getting back to you sooner. Anything you have left, I'll gladly take back.

Just in case the "news" hasn't spread far, Ashley is expecting ANOTHER baby. She has already found out that is going to be a girl. Also, her boyfriend, Nick, is now her fiance. I guess that's exciting for somebody. She only has 1 year left in school, so everybody pray really hard that she continues and gets her degree in Sociology.

Went to Kidsfest at Southgate Mall (Terri's workplace) on Saturday. Emma had a really good time, especially watching the magic show.

That's all for now! Love and peace to everyone!

Christie

Ed's appointment

Ed's CT scan showed changes since the previous one. The doctor suggested a round of chemo called xeloda which is a pill form. She thought maybe Ed's system could tolerate this form better even though the side effects are basically the same. She said that if Ed opted not to go the chemo route, she could take his case to the tumor board to see if they would approve other treatment for the liver. She said that she did not advise this as the liver would be the only thing treated, as with chemo his whole system would be treated. She said it was a slow growing cancer so Ed is to let her know his decision. She gave us her email address and her pager number which was very thoughtful. So for now the ball is in Ed's court. I pray that he makes a decision soon as limbo is not a comfortable place to be. I'm trying not to pressure him (I have to live with him) but that doesn't mean others can't, if they so desire.

Dad's closet

Tonight, Margaret and I did spring cleaning in Dad's closet. We threw out every piece of clothes that didn't look pretty new. We left approximately 30 short sleeved and 25 long sleeved shirts. We left at least 6 coats. He has 2 nice outer vest and several sweaters. He has probably 8 flannel shirts. We found 2 robes and 1 pair of PJ's that he didn't know he had. So if you were thinking of getting him clothes for Father's Day, think again! Maybe handkerchiefs or undies would be OK????
Or maybe everyday pants - 34 waist (with elastic) or 36. 30 Length. Dad's good for clothes until 2020!

Dad

Dad went back to Dr. Hasket yesterday and got a good report. Both times that we've visited Dr. Hasket, he's alluded to how lucky Dad is to have survived pancreatitis. So I surmised that at Dad's age, it could have very well took him away from us. In April, Dad weighed 147, when he left the hospital - 144, two weeks ago - 140, and yesterday - 148. So his family must be doing a good job feeding him! We went out to eat after his appt., road around the county and looked at the crops, visited Amy Asbell and Christie Ervin. We had a nice afternoon. He sees Dr. Smith, the cardiologist on June 16, goes back to see Dr. Hasket Aug. 6, and doesn't see Dr. Davis until time to remove the gall bladder. I think Dr Smith decides when Dad's heart is ready to remove gall bladder. So far every doctor has given him a good report.

More important news! Rick and I are going to be parents! One of our hens is setting on eggs and should be hatching within the week (I think). I got a text from Amber requesting 3 chicks for her birthday yesterday. Wish us luck and look for a ribbon on our mailbox!

ANOTHER BIRTHDAY - AMBER ELIZABETH

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO AMBER ELIZABETH ON THURSDAY, JUNE 4.

When I visited Dad and Joan on Wednesday night, I took my laptop and showed them the videos of Savanah and Ridge. They both enjoyed seeing the them.

Happy Birthdays & Father's Dad

Happy Birthday to the following: Today - Amber Belvin Tomorrow - Cathy Isom and Richard Stallings.

Bertha, Gene and I will plan to be there on the 21st for Father's Dad. I'll help you some. Will let you know more as the time gets closer.

Bertha, I have a question. As Dad and Joan does not seem to follow low fat diet except when we do meals, do you think it would be better if they had lunch delivered? It may not be low fat, but maybe have more noutrician (sp) than some of the things they have on their own.

We continue to keep Ed and Joyce in prayer. I think everyone knows, but he will be having a scan on Wednesday.

We enjoyed having Chris' family here this weekend. It was short, but we packed a lot into it.
Walked to get yugart on Friday night. On Saturday we went to pool -had lunch there, went to movie and then out to Japanese steak house for dinner. Then stopped to get ice cream on the way home.

We actually cooked breakfast at home today. After Gene and Michelle walked the dog, we all walked to 7-11 and got a Slurpee. They do not have 7-11 where they live, so always wants to get one while here. We just don't see our grandchildren as often as we'd like so we took full advantage of having them this weekend.

Father's Day

Dad's looking better and getting stronger. He's now walking w/out the assistance of a cane. I'm still concerned over the lack of mealtime planning on their part. They had can spaghetti with turkey sausage in it for lunch today???
Speaking of Dad, you're all invited to a cookout on Father's Day @ my house. We'll fire up the grill around 4:00 and hopefully eat around 5pm. We'll get the hamburgers, hotdogs, a few chicken breast, rolls, drinks and condiments. You call all bring a side dish or a dessert, please. If the weather's not too hot or rainy, we'll plan to eat outside.

Please RSVP by Wednesday, June 17. Dad has already said he'll be here if possible.

Too Cute!!!

Cathy and Jeremy,
That was too cute. They had perfect starting positions and everything. Can't wait to see how big they are when I get home. Will have to come down to Sanford and see you guys.

Chris

Ed

Ed had a consultation visit at UNC yesterday. They scheduled a colonoscopy for Wed, 27th. Thanks for the prayers.

Future Wolfpack Wrestlers?

Chris' New Mailing Address

I may have overlooked it. It may have gotten around. But, in case neither applies, here is Chri's current mailing address. I'm sure he'd like to hear from ya.
SGT Chris Belvin
BOCAT
APO AE 09348

He states you can "Quote" him on the fact that the previous administration Won the war that the current administration will takecredit for . This is based upon many elements the previous administration had already put in place. So, I have "Quoted" him as stated by him.

DAD

Bertha says that Dad may go home on Saturday.

Dad

Dad is in a room. His phone number is 252-482-6355.

Dad

Dad is doing very well and should be placed in a regular room by this afternoon.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MAMA

We think about you most every day and wish you were still here with us even though we know you're in a much better place.

Ball, Ball, Ball -- Tis the Season!

As you read in moms previous blog, Amber is playing softball on a traveling team as well as playing her regular rec team. She really is enjoying it. Her traveling team is made up of 3 counties, so she has also made new friends. She will be playing in 3 tournaments in May. She has put in a lot of hard work and I am very proud of her. It is alot on Jason & I as he is coaching her rec team & is helping on the other. He really has a passion & a talent for this as he is firm in teaching them but all of the girls know he cares.

Hope everyone is doing well.

Take Care & keep blogging. I like keeping up with everyone!

BRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR

Well the swimming pool is officially open. Lol and I put together the table and 2 chairs, unboxed the other 4 chairs, and put out the lounge chairs by the pool today. Then Kyle, Amber, and I jumped in. I went in 3 or 4 times. while Amber and Kyled went in a few more times. The water temperature had to be in the low 50s-my breath was taken away the first time I went in. We have grass almost everywhere there was dirt/clay before. The pool guys just need to bring in a couple of scoop fulls to fix the area where my neighbor's drain eroded part of my hill and get some grass grown.. He has since put in a new drain pipe. EVERYBODY is welcome to come for a visit and a swim. We will try to figure out how to put pictures on the blogger shortly.
Over spring break one of my stitches came loose at one end and it was flopping around my eye. Felt like a piece of sandpaper rubbing up there. The doctor cut it and pulled it out. MUCH BETTER. My sight is finally starting to come back since the doc. took me off the dialating medicine. Hopefully it will be fully cured in another couple of months.
We are also in the process of replacing our Hot water heater, furnace, and AC unit since the stupid thing can not be fixed again. We have had several patch up jobs to keep it going as long as possible. Good thing the teching profession pays so well here in NC. :)
Amber got the top part of her braces on over spring break as well. She seems to be well with them. In my biased opinion she lloks cute in braces.
Everybody says hello.

Howie

Happy Birthday, Jeremy!!

How about these folks?

Anybody recognize this young buck

relay for life

FYI-----Emma will be participating in the kids Relay for Life in Edenton on May 16. If anyone would like to contribute, please send check made out to American Cancer Society to our address. Thanks!

I'm going to Las Vegas on Friday and coming back on Monday. It came about pretty fast. I had registered for an event, that was changed and I thought I might not go, but they still decided to have a training event and I really wanted to get away so I decided to go. I would have come back on Sunday, but it was cheaper to come home on Monday and I got a night at a time share without it costing me any more money. I'll be by myself Sunday afternoon and night, but that does not bother me. I'll just relax and hopefully enjoy some warm weather. Wish you all could go with me.

Wanted to share an email that I got from Ben:

After all the money spent on me for glasses and eye work I did some payback today. A lady at church had an aneurysm and has to wear an eye patch. Her son wanted to lift her spirits a bit and was looking for a decorative eye page (because she has a big personality- loud and out there) I (speaking before I thought) said I could whip one out and make it fun (because he couldnt find one) It led to me making four- It made her very happy.

1. Fun and Games (green with gold dice)
2.Night on the town (glitter and bling)
3. Day at the Beach (ticking with gold shells)
4. Wild thing (leopard and gold)

missing tooth

Guess who lost a front tooth! Clay, Rick and I had a good time at the antique tractor show while Amber had her first traveling softball tournament in Winterville. Does Clay's photo resemble Ben's photo? PS Clay photographed himself.

Ed's funny

Dad is always praising prune juice for his digestive health so Ed agreed to try some. In the grocery store I saw Plumsmart which also stated that it was good for digestive health so I bought it instead as I thought Ed might like it better and it did seem to help. He said he would still like to try the prune juice. He tried it late last night and I poured him some more this morning at breakfast. In conversation he said he thought we needed to visit Dad soon. I was a little surprised and concerned as we had just seen Dad Easter weekend at Bertha's. When I asked him why, he said we needed to take him this prune juice.

watch this-

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9lp0IWv8QZY

Happy Birthday to Cory

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO CORY!! IF YOU WERE CLOSER I'D COME AND GET CAKE TONIGHT. MAKE IT A GREAT DAY!!!

Bertha,
Thanks for hosting us on Sunday, we really enjoyed ourselves. We missed those of you who could not be with us. I enjoyed the chicken salad so much, I ate all of it for my lunch on Monday.

Happy Easter

Happy Easter....

Mom and Dad are inbetween email addresses I think, so I'm posting this here to give them the fantasy of Bethany and I as new parents (the baby is on loan from my friends Carissa and Kurt).

Ed's doctor visit

Ed's CT scan did show additional areas of concern in the liver. The doctor scheduled another visit in 3 months for blood work and another scan for comparison. Please continue praying. Thanks.

Chris' New Mailing Address

While looking through some paper work, I discovered I'd copied Chris' new mailing address as follows: SGT CHRIS BELVIN
BOCAT
APO AE 09348
I just sent him a mailing at this address and he just let me know he got it.
Gene

EASTER

LOOKING FORWARD TO SEEING ALL OF YOU WHO CAN COME TO MY HOUSE ON EASTER! WE'LL EAT ABOUT 1:30-2:00. PLEASE BRING A COVERED DISH IF POSSIBLE. FOLLOWING THE LUNCH, WE'LL HAVE AN EGG HUNT! YOU MAY BRING YOUR FRIENDS, AND EXTENDED FAMILY MEMBERS IF YOU'D LIKE. LUNCH WILL BE MORE LIKE PICNIC, RATHER THAT TRADITIONAL EASTER TURKEY!

Joyce, Ed do we know when you will get the results of the scan? We're praying for good results. Margaret

Second surgery

It has been a "fun" week for me. I came down with an ear infection Tuesday evening and had to go to the urgent care. They gave me antibiotics, numbing drops and a narcotic for pain. I have had to use only one and that was Tuesday night. Then yesterday I went back for another surgery on my eye since there was a leak. Fluid was draining out of the front of my eye and the pressure in my eye was dropping too low. The surgery only lasted about 40 minutes, but I was back in the prep/surgery/recovery area about 2 hours. I went back to the doctor's this morning and he said everything looks good. The pressure is back up and the leak is sealed. I have another set of stitches under my eyelid, but they are not as aggravating as the first ones. I have to put a steroid drop in that eye every hour that I am awake. I hope I do not get drug tested at school. :)
Anyhow I feel much better today than I did the last day after the surgery. I still have to sit around and do nothing for the next 3 days and that is going to drive me crazy. With all the rain and new grass, the back yard really needs a good mowing. I guess I will have to focus on getting my last 7 weeks of school work prepared.
I am taking a conversational speaking Spanish class on Monday nights and have learned quite a bit. I need to focus on learning my verbs, but I have my colors, numbers, and days of the week down pact.
I really enjoyed seeing every one at the birthday party. People say I am crazy teaching 8th graders, but I think having young twins 24/7 would be a great challenge as well.
Well I need to go pump up my eye again so everyone take care.

Howie

Watch this

If i werent so in a total passionate love affair with my I-phone I would totally switch to TMOBILE because of this commercial...

more pictures

There are more pictures and videos at www.flickr.com/photos/summerlins (but, sigh, still unsteadiness)

EASTER?

PUTTING OUT FEELERS? WHO CAN COME TO MY HOUSE FOR LUNCH ON EASTER SUNDAY? PLEASE LET ME KNOW ASAP.

I PREFER TO HAVE THE BYRUM FAMILY ON EASTER AND THE BLANCHARDS ON MOTHER'S DAY. THE REASON THAT I WANT TO KNOW ASAP IS THAT IF THE BYRUMS CAN'T COME, I'LL INVITE THE BLANCHARDS AND THEN I'LL HAVE OFF ON MOTHER'S DAY!

Paige

After the funeral for Aunt Carrie, I emailed Paige. This was her response.

It was good to see you and Rick and the rest of the family as well. I had never talked to Yvonne before so I enjoyed getting to know her. Thanks for the update on your family. I did not know that you had lost your sister Gloria and I am so sorry.

If you read my letter to your Dad, you know how I have struggled over the years with Leona's unwillingness to have a relationship with me so it made it very difficult to be with the rest of the family. I regret that I did not try to continue to have a relationship with the rest of the family. All of you are just wonderful and I know that I missed a lot that I could have enjoyed if I had continued to be with you in spite of how Leona felt about me. I don't ever what any of you to think that I did not care about you or want to have a relationship with you because that is not the case. I never felt like I had the right to a relationship with any of you since Leona did not want a relationship with me. Of course now I know that was a line Satan was feeding me, but at the time that is how I felt. I'm not sure how much any of you know about my desire to have a relationship with Leona. When Grover and I found our grandparents, they gave me Leona's address and phone number and I immediately contacted her when we returned home. She made it very clear in a letter she wrote to my foster mother that she did not want anything to do with me. This was such a shock because no one ever told me why I did not live with my family so in my innocent mind I just assumed that we had become separated and we would find our way back to each other. I did not contact her any more but attended my grandparents funerals and thought surely she would want to have a relationship with me when she saw me there with our daughter which would have been her only grandchild. Wrong again. She promptly left as soon as she saw me. When Christy was a baby, Grover decided to look Larry up and see if he would like to see me. He found him and Larry was happy to know where I was as Leona had told him a family in California had adopted me and she did not know where I was. We spent some happy times together but when he and his first wife divorced, I did not hear from him anymore. When Larry died, I went to his funeral and tried to talk to Leona after the visitation but she would not talk to me. A few years after that, I wrote her a letter and explained that I did not have any hard feelings about her giving me away but would like to have a relationship with her. I never received a reply. When I was home sick one day, I decided to call her and I asked her to please not hang up. I was so shocked that she did not hang up that I completely forgot all that I wanted to say to her. I told her about our two grandchildren and asked how she and her husband were and also asked her about any health issues I should be aware of . She said there were no health issues. I don't even remember how the conversation ended but I still had hope that one day she would call and we could sit down and talk about all that had happened. When Uncle Cecil called to let me know that Leona had passed away, I was blown away. I simply could not believe that she had died without us ever being able to discuss some things on my heart. No one can imagine what I went through during that time. If it were not for my relationship with God and Christ, I could never have gotten through what I have been through. You would think that it would be easier as I get older but it hasn't gotten easier because I was never given any answers to questions that I had. I didn't mean to rattle on, but I hope that sharing some of this will help you and my other cousins understand why it has been so hard to try to have a relationship with each of you. It has nothing to do with any of you.

Please continue to keep in touch.

Love,

Paige

Gone to a better place

Tonight just after 9 P.M. a fellow teacher from my hall passed away after a long battle with leukemia. Jenni Cornwell was only 26 years old. She was an amazing teacher. Jenni was full of energy and inspired all of us to be better teachers. I ask you for your prayers for her husband Josh and their families as they struggle with Jenni's passing. Her husband set up a blog spot and between 9 P.M.and now there are over 72 posts. The site is Jennibugg.blogspot.com.

Howie

Birthday Video

Linda Faye's Address

This is Linda Faye's address for any who want it.
Linda R Akins
3920 West Autumn Dr
Petersburg, VA 23803


Thanks to everyone who came out to help celebrate the twins' first birthday. What a turnout! I hope that everyone had a good time and it won't be long before we can all get together again.

Aunt Carrie

At 92, Carrie Byrum Rountree Sargent left this earth. Although, it didn't seem that she left with many regrets. Attending the funeral was most enjoyable. Her daughter, Linda, asked a previous pastor at Eureka Baptist to hold the funeral. He knew and enjoyed Aunt Carrie. He described her as a woman with spunk, a woman who spoke her mind, and a woman who loved to GO! Linda recounted the day when she talked to Aunt Carrie about being blind. (not during the service) Aunt Carrie had a stroke a month or so before her death. Even though they believed that the stoke left her blind, Aunt Carrie had not mentioned it. One morning when Linda was visiting, Aunt Carrie said, " I know that I've got my eyes open, but I just can't see a thing." Linda then explained that the stoke had affected that part of the brain, and she probably wouldn't be able to see again. To that, Aunt Carrie replied, "OK, well, can I have some Pepsi?"

As Rick and I went to bed last Thursday, with the memory of the funeral still on his mind, Rick said, "When I die, I hope my funeral will be as happy and joyful as today's funeral was." I hope so too!

It was good to see all of the Byrum family. Linda was doing well under the circumstances. Her husband is still in a nursing home with the brain injury from being hit while riding the bike. He is no longer receiving physical therapy. He had plateaed and his mental condition leaves him uncoperative. Some days, he just refuses to get out of bed unless Linda goes by and puts on the pressure. He refers to her as the boss. During his difficult days, she has to ask him, "Now who is the boss?" before he'll get up. Linda's daughter was beautiful with coal black hair and a silky white complection. Even though she is married and the mother of two, she looks 15. Paige was there and still looked as pretty as ever. Debbie Hobbs ? has lost a great amount of weight. I saw her a year or so ago, and she looked pretty frail. She now has gained a few pounds back and looks healthy. Uncle Weldon's had a good showing from his big family. Everyone seemed to be doing well. Of course, Aunt Juanita wasn't there. Her health prevented her from coming but it seems that all the family (even grandchildren) has rallied together to help Uncle Weldon. Gary stayed with her during the visitation and Paula's daughter stayed during the funeral.

With all this being said, I've made a (late) new year's resolution. I want to go see one of my or Rick's aunts/uncles at least once a month. I think Aunt Gladys Ward will be one of my first. Anyone want to go with me?

Billy Dail, Aunt Carrie, Aunt Gladys

Ima Jean called to inform the family that Billy Dail (Aunt Edna Mae's son) is in Norfolk General with Pancreas Cancer. I don't know any details. Dad says that Aunt Carrie is running a high temperature and her time here is limited. Mom's sister, Aunt Gladys is growing weaker each week. Her heart is weak and her activity is limited, but she still insist on living at home by herself per my last account of her by Ima Jean...and so are the days of our lives.

Rick and I had a great weekend, getting re-certified in Disaster Relief Childcare. This group of people (200+) this time is pretty impressive. The amount of equipment is phenomenal. There will be 4 more training this year, so if you're Baptist and willing, Go For It! Other areas of training are Mass Feeding, Recovery, Water Purification, Shower/Laundry and Chaplaincy. Rick and I are considering being trained & certified in Shower/Laundry, long hours, but the works not quite as demanding.

Are you all enjoying this weather or WHAT?!!!!!!

Surgery Update number 2

I saw the doctor this morning and he is very pleased with the results. The pressure in the eye is where he wants it to be. I actually do not have stitches on the outside of my eye. The irritation with the stitches under the eye has kicked in and it can be very irritating. I am taking 3 different types of drops to help with the healing process. This is going to be a very frustrating next few weeks and I hope that I will soon get used to the stitches. Not much to tell for now. Sorry for grossing you out Barry. At least you get to read it and not experience it:) I go back to work on Monday and I warned the kids before I was not going to be a happy camper when I got back. Typing with this is also not a very fun thing to do.

Howie

Surgery Update

Well I was at the hospital a little after 6 this morning and went back to the OR about 7:40. I was given the sleeping juice and woke up while the surgery was occurring. This was expected and I was talking with the doctor while he was doing his thing. However, I began to feel the sting of the needle in my eye, so they gave me another dose in the IV and went back out for a few minutes. I woke back up just as the doctor was finishing up. He said the surgery went well and now I am back home with a patch over my eye. I go back to his office tomorrow morning at 8 and he will remove the patch. I will be taking 3 types of eye drops and the recovery period is about 3-4 months. The eye will be kept dialated for a few weeks and I will have blurry vision for a few weeks in the left eye.

As far as the actual procedure goes, they basically pealed back the thick layer of my eye and then cut a doggie door into the eye itself. He put in a shunt, which is like a tiny straw to help keep draining fluid out of my eye and keep the pressure down. One concern is that the pressure will get to low and they will have to correct this if this occurs. I have stitches under my eye lid, which they can remove later with a laser if they need to lessen the pressure. I also have stitches on the outside of my eye, but I have not seen these yet. I will have these for about a month.
He explained that these will become very irritating, using the example of having sand paper rubbing against itself. My eye is still numb, so I have not had the pleasure of t his discomfort yet.
Well that is all for now, I am off to take a long snooze.
Howie

Howie Surgery and Lol's Father

I was asked about Lol's father and his cancer. The outcome was the best that it could be. It had not gotten too close to the brain as they had worried. They felt that they got everything and he did not have to have chemo or radiation. There is now another update. He had a cancerous tumor inside a non-cancerous tumor. You have probably never heard of this and there is a good reason for this. He is the 8th person in the world that has been known to have this condition. His case will be written up in the medical journals. Lol called me on Friday with this update.

Howie is getting his surgery on his eyes for glucoma (sp) on Thursday. This is much more invasive that the laser surgery that he had before. Don't understand exactly what they're doing. If Howie has some time, maybe he can elaborate further. He just too young to be having some much trouble with glucoma. At least his mother thinks this because if he is old enough for this, then what does that say about my age.

Join Us!

The Jones & Ervin families are tentatively planning a camping trip the weekend of April 17th. We are going to Medoc Mountain State Park in Hollister, NC (near Roanoke Rapids). All of these plans are tentative, but if anyone is interested in joining us, just come on down. No reservations needed, just show up & pay the ranger the morning after. I will try to remember to post if any of our plans change.
Update on our family:
Jason is working alot lately! With the whole peanut-salmonella thing, their business is booming! Good for Jimbo's & Jason too but he is putting in alot of hours.
I am doing well, staying busy with work & trying to keep up with everyone else.
Amber has been asked to play on a traveling softball team this spring, summer, & fall. She will be playing 2 weekend tournaments a month. TIS THE SEASON!!
Clay is doing well, ready to play baseball as well now that Amber has started practice.

Take Care & Love to all!!

Family Contact/Birthday/Anniversary List

I would really like to maintain a list for addresses(postal & email), phone numbers, birthdays(year is not necessary if you don't want it published!), and anniversaries. Could everyone comment with this information & I'll send out the list (eventually)? Or if someone already maintains this list, then could you share it with me & the rest of us that want it?

Twin's 1st Birthday Party

We sent e-vites to those email addresses that we had. If you didn't get yours, then we have the wrong address, no address, or you are out of the country....but you are invited! I know it's a long way, but we'd love to have everyone over for our first kiddie party.


Ridge and Savannah's First Birthday Party

Host:
Jeremy & Cathy Isom
Location:
173 Doe Run Dr, Sanford, NC
When:
Saturday, March 14, 1:00pm
Phone:
919-774-7136

Come have cake and ice cream with us as we celebrate our first year with Ridge and Savannah!

RICKY BRADDY

EVERYBODY NEEDS TO CHECK OUT THE RICKY BRADDY BUNCH WEB SITE. FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO DON'T WATCH AMERICAN IDOL, RICKY BRADDY IS FROM ELIZABETH CITY, NC AND IS ONE OF THE 36 FINALIST. HE DID A GREAT JOB ON THE IDOL TONIGHT. DON'T THINK THAT HE'LL BE ONE OF THE THREE TO PROGRESS ON TO NEXT WEEK THOUGH. HE HAS BEEN GIVEN NO AIR TIME UNTIL TONIGHT. EVERYBODY ELSE , I BELIEVE WAS SHOWN SINGING AT THE AUDITION.
IF YOU GO TO THE WEBSITE, YOU CAN SEE HIM AND LISTEN TO HIS PERFORMANCE TONIGHT. MY ALERGIST IS ALSO HIS ALERGIST! WHOP-TO-DO!
HE ALSO HAS HIS OWN "RICKY BRADDY DANCE". EVERYONE IS DOING THE DANCE ON YOUTUBE AND PUTTING ON HIS WEBSITE. CHECK IT OUT!

WWW.THEBRADDYBUNCH.COM

babies playing

If anyone is interested, I have added a couple of videos to youtube. They are by duckpinmachinist and you can find them by searching on the youtube site for DSCF0562 and DSCF0207. There are others with this same name but not by duckpinmachinist. I thought I was titling them Isom Twins and Isom Twins 2 but evidently I didn't do something right.

I can't wait to spend my $13. How about you?

YouTube - Savannah's 1st Steps

YouTube - Savannah's 1st Steps

ANOTHER PICTURE

PICTURE

Looks like they were having fun. I sure hope so.

Here are some quotes to make you smile.

If you look like your passport photo, you're too ill to travel.-Will Kommen

I once shook hands with Pat Boone and my whole right side sobered up.-Dean Martin

I'm not going to vacuum 'til Sears makes one you can ride on.-Roseanne Barr

The most remarkable thing about my mother is that for 30 years she served us nothing but leftovers. The original meal has never been found.-Calvin Trillin

My grandmother was a very tough woman. She buried three husbands and two of them were just napping.-Rita Rudner

My husband wanted one of those big-screen TV's for his birthday. So I just moved his chair closer to the one we have already.-Wendy Liebman

I hate housework! You make the beds, you do the dishes - and six months later you have to start all over again.-Joan Rivers

My grandmother is over eighty and still doesn't need glasses. Drinks right out of the bottle.-Henny Youngman

Inside me there's a thin person struggling to get out, but I can usually sedate him with four or five cupcakes.-Bob Thaves

He that falls in love with himself will have no rivals.-Ben Franklin

I haven't spoken to my wife in years. I didn't want to interrupt her.-Rodney Dangerfield

My doctor is wonderful. Once, when I couldn't afford an operation, he touched up the x-rays.-Joey Bishop

Hope you all have a great day.