Sick of Those Taxes

Howdy! 

I just want to say that I am sick of working on my taxes or I should say getting the information gathered for my accountant.  Bless his heart, he has his work cut out working with me.  I hate numbers and very intimidated by anything that the IRS wants from me!  I do have an ace in my deck that most of you do not have ..yep!  I am bragging.  My little sister is an IRS auditor and I don't mind using her a bit!

I am so bad with numbers that my double major in college was created around not having to do any kind of math to get that degree.  My accounting class was considered a math class way back then.  If you ask my Mom, she would say that I wasn't very good in that either.  We spent a lot of time on the phone my freshman year at college trying to get that homework done. 

Today was a tough one for Pat.  He still has the bone pain and he was home most of the day today.  On days like this he can only just rest and ride it out.  I am praying for a much better day tomorrow.  His body might not cooperate, but his mind is willing and he doesn't complain.  I practically have to beg him to allow me to do anything for him.  I just want to trade places with him.

Going to call it a night!   But first,

May the Lord bless you
and protect you.

May the Lord smile on you
and be gracious to you

May the Lord show you his favor
and give you his peace.   Numbers 6: 24-26

In His Grip!
Paige
xoxo

To Love Him

Hello! It is Sunday!  Even though you were  unable to read my post from last night, I wrote one.  I submitted it and who knows where it went.  So frustrating! 

Today we were able to go to church and Matt and his girlfriend, Missy, joined us.  What an awesome time of worship and Brother Mike delivered a powerful message.  In my notes, I underlined "Pray for Understanding and Conviction" and "Pray That Faith Will Grow Stronger".  I am certainly praying for stronger faith each day and my prayer is that my children will too.  Brother Mike said today that we should be praying for our children and pray for what they really need.  This message was a reminder to me on how to pray for my kids. This mom desires for her kids to be happy and she wants them to be pain free, but that is a waste of time.  God assures us that we will  all have trials and many.  Since we have begun this journey those precious three of mine have certainly been the center of my prayers each day.  Oh how I want them to become men and women of God and that He would use this trial to mold them and reveal himself to them each day. I pray that Elizabeth, Matt and Garrett will grow to love God deeply and that they will truly know what an intimate relationship is. I want them to know Him and to make Him known. 

Years ago when I was doing a Beth Moore Bible study and she said that she loved God more than anything on this earth.  When I heard her say that I wanted to know if she meant she loved Him more than her children?  Did she love God more than her husband?  Did she really?  I remember praying at that moment that I wanted to love God more than my family.  I could not understand it or really think I could ever say that.  Well, I can now and this is the love I want my children to have. My prayer now is that they will love our Heavenly Father deeply and may they know His love through Pat and I. 

Yesterday Pat experienced more bone pain, but it was milder than it is today.  He described his body today as feeling sore like he has been playing a lot of football or having  flu that touches every bone in his body.  So, I ask that you pray for the pain to leave and that he will feel much better tomorrow. 

I did mention in my post yesterday that Pat and I ran some errands in the late afternoon and we were able to buy four or five big bags of Sweethearts from CVS on the clearance shelf!  We were actually laughing as I piled them in my arms! 

I was looking for a bookmark yesterday and I found one that I had tucked away in my office.  It read "Faith sees the invisible, believes the incredible and receives the impossible."  Anonymous. Let's think on that.

Sweet dreams!
Paige
xoxo

New Numbers

Greetings from Touristy Tulsa! 

We are at the Cancer Center and Pat's chemo is starting now.  When he takes his chemo, they also give him Benadyral and Ativan along with a lot of fluids so that he can keep hydrated.  Keeping him hydrated and full of protein is a challenge.  He is maintaining his weight pretty good.  He did lose two pounds, so I will have to work harder this week to get the calories poured into him. 

Now for the good news!   Pat's tumor markers are down to 61.  Two weeks ago they were 68 and when we began in October they were 1142.   We met with Marie, the Nurse Practitioner, today who I just love.  She was excited too about our report and our new tumor marker numbers.  I love telling the nurses here in Infusion of our good report today because they need to hear it as much as we do.  They treat patients day in and day out and I know that they get weary.  I have talked about my nurse friend, Wendy, here before.  She works nights on Thursday, Friday and Saturday.    She just came on for her shift tonight  and we were able to catch up with her.  She is an absolute hoot and adorable too!  Most importantly she is  compassionate, loving and funny and she adores her patients.  She and I text each other throughout the week as she is one of our biggest cheerleaders.

I am going to sign off for now. Pat is sleeping, so I may just read a little or play here on this laptop.
Your prayers are working....keep them coming!

Praising the Lord,
Paige
xoxo

Awareness

Yes, I know it is early and this post is before 10 PM.   I am hoping and planning to go to bed early or at least at a decent hour.  A decent hour to me is 10:00.  I am a piddler by nature, so it is easy for me to drag bedtime out.  Who can relate?

We will fly to Tulsa in the morning. I never have a sense of dread when we go.  If you ask Pat he may answer you differently.  It is such a warm and comforting place to be and I just wish there was a different reason.  I love the fact that there is more awareness about the Cancer Center amongst our friends and family.  Currently, I have a friend from my home town who is battling breast cancer, and she is going to the Cancer Center in Illinois.  She lives closer to Tulsa, but due to her insurance, she has to travel to Zion, Illinois. 

I believe awareness is important for the center, but also for pancreatic cancer.  My DFW friends, did you see the article in the Star Telegram about Patrick Swayze's widow and her focus on pancreatic cancer?  It was such an interesting article and the more I read about this disease, the more I am learning.  She was at Capital hill last week  seeking more funds to research this disease.  One question in the article asked "Why the lack of attention to  pancreatic cancer?"  Her answer:  "It's a mystery."  But she noted that other cancers have become high-profile and benefited from more funding and more research, so there are survivors championing their cause."  With so few survivors of pancreatic cancer, she told a room of friends and relatives of Swayze, "It's up to us."  For 40 years, the survival rate for pancreatic cancer has remained in the single digits, despite an increase in the incidence of the disease, despite the fact that it is the forth-leading cause of cancer death and at a time when significant progress has been made on other cancers.  

So, I share with you what I now know and desire to spread awareness as we continue this journey.  I know that you will now meet more people who have been touched by this disease.

Tomorrow I will be checking in from Tulsa.  I hear it is colder there, of course! 

It feels so good to know that we are not walking in this journey alone.  Your love, prayer and support mean so much to us.

Hugs!
Paige
xoxo

We Will Miss You Shirley

Hello!  Hope you have had a good day today.  Pat has had back pain again today.  Sometimes it just starts hurting.  He tries to find relief through his baths or his heating pad.  He went to bed early tonight, so my prayer is that he will feel better tomorrow.

Today the Easterlings lost another sweet friend, Shirley Bristow, to breast cancer.  When Elizabeth and Matthew were little they attended the SonShine Patch Learning Center at Retta Baptist Church.  I believe that Elizabeth was one-year-old when she started attending.  Shirley was her teacher for a couple of years then Matt came along.   What I loved about Shirley was her beautiful smile.  Each day she warmly greeted my kids with her big hugs.  She assured this young mother that it was okay to go on to work and that they would be in perfect hands.  I will be forever grateful for Shirley in helping us raise our little guys when they were young.    I remember many times when I was out of town, Pat would take Elizabeth's rubber band and hair ribbon to school so Miss Shirley could put her thick, curly hair in a ponytail.   Shirley loved each child at the SonShine Patch just as if they were her own.  She had an incredible gift of working with children and making them feel special.

Shirley loved her two girls, Jamie and Laura, and they hung out with her at the center.  Lee, Jamie and Laura, Shirley was so special to our family and we loved her very much.  I pray that you feel God's peace and His presence in the days to come. 

Shirley's short life and this horrible disease reminds me again today that life is precious.  Just this morning while reading my 365 day Bible, February 22nd read as follows: 

"Lord, remind me how brief my time on earth will be.  Remind me that my days are numbered--how fleeting my life is.  You have made my life no longer than the width of my hand.  My entire lifetime is just a moment to you; at best, each of us is but a breath."  Psalm 39 4-5.

Please pray for Bristow family tonight.

Thankfully,
Paige
xoxo

Thinking of Randy and Diane

Just a quick hello tonight!  All is well around the Easterling household.  The boys got in from Hico and Elizabeth returned home safely too.  Pat felt good today and had a busy work day. 

Pat, Garrett & I just can't seem to get enough basketball as we went to watch LD Bell play Cedar Hill tonight at Centennial.  Cedar Hill blew them out, so it wasn't that good of a game.

It seems that there is a lot to do during the short week because we leave for Tulsa Thursday morning.   There are a few doctor appointments to get in for Garrett and I, put my car in the shop, and various other to do list items.  I am not complaining though...I like uneventful! 

As I close tonight I ask you to pray for Randy Hall in Alabama.  Pat and I had breakfast a couple of times with Randy at the cancer center several months ago and he was a sweetheart.  Today Randy buried his wife, Diane, who fought breast cancer for many years.  I have been keeping up with Diane's journey via Randy's Facebook posts.  Randy, my heart breaks for you and know we are praying for you.

Let Randy and Diane's love story remind all of us that life is precious and truly none of us are guaranteed tomorrow. 

Sweet Dreams!
Paige
xoxo

My Sweethearts

Sunday is my favorite day and today has been a good one!  Pat and I went to church this morning and it felt so great to be there as we have missed several Sundays.  Pat and I are feeling like empty nesters this weekend as the kids are not here because of the long weekend.  The boys report that they are catching fish and having fun in Hico.  Elizabeth is spending the weekend with her old college roommate. Pat has felt good today, but he had a lot of back pain earlier this morning. 

I received the Purpose Driven Life devotional each day via email.  It is written by Rick Warren from Saddleback Church.  I read in today's devotion 
 Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” Matthew 11:29-30 (MSG) .  Jesus calls us to a level of intimacy that can only be sustained by his constant presence in our lives. 

When I read that it reminded me of a cute story and what I call another God hug.  A week ago Friday I was driving back from Madill.  We had gone there so Pat could measure some windows.  Earlier in that week we had some hard days and on Thursday night I was crying and I asked God to show me His presence.  It was late at night.  I needed Him and I asked him for a God hug the next day. 

Every Valentines Day I love buying the Sweethearts candy. You know the hearts that have words written on them and they are in a pink and white box.   Well, I got Pat addicted too.  We went to CVS last year after Valentines Day to buy out all of the rest the Sweethearts on the shelf.  Okay, back to the story. While I was driving I remembered I had brought us a box to share.  Pat was sleeping and I was getting a little sleepy myself, so I thought I would eat half of the box and save the rest for him.

I find myself praying all day most days...just conversation with God.  Below is a conversation I had as I was opening the box and started eating the candy.  The conversation in my head went like this:

God :  "Read the first one".  I picked up an orange one and it was blank. 

Me:   "It is blank."

God:  "I know.  Read the next one."

I picked out a pink one and it read: Love You. 

That made me smile.  I continued eating them of course. 

God:  "Read the next one".

I picked another one.  It read:  Forever

His message to me:  Love You Forever

Now fast forward two days.  I shared with my Life Group girls the story about the Sweethearts candy. On Monday, my friend, Brenda who is in our life group, called me.  I was unable to answer her call but this is what she left on my voice mail:  "Hey Paige!  I wanted you to know that I had to try those Sweethearts you talked about last night.  They tasted okay, but I thought I would eat one and see if God had a message for me.  So I ate one and mine said "Hot Babe". She was laughing her head off when she hung up the phone.   
When I read the last candy that said "Forever", it made me tear up because God knows me intimately. Just as the writer said above "Jesus calls us to a level of intimacy that can only be sustained by his constant presence in our lives."  You can say it is coincidence and that is okay, but I don't believe it was.  It is just like God to use my favorite candy to tell me that He hears me and He loves me. 

Brenda, sorry your message wasn't "love you forever", but He did create you and you are hot!"  

I love God's sense of humor too!

Good night!  Have a great week!
Paige
xoxo

A Night Out

Hello!  Pat and I just returned from dinner. Don and Melody Hamm, from Indiana, joined us along with Conny and Angela.  Don, Pat and Conny were on the sales team together for years at Kinro. Don and Melody, stopped by on their way to San Antonio.  It was great seeing you two!

What a beautiful day today, but I spent it doing taxes and have a goal to finish most of it this week.  Come February, I start feeling the pressure to get them done.   Pat cleaned out the garage today with Matt's help.  I love organization around here, but must say there is more that needs organizing!  

Pretty quiet around here and that is okay!  The boys are headed to the ranch to enjoy the long weekend and Elizabeth is hanging with friends.  

I will be hanging out with my BF too!  Hope you have a great weekend!
Hugs!
Paige

xoxo

I love Him So

Hello!

I asked Pat last night if he wanted to update Caringbridge and he said okay. When I read his post, I was surprised and touched and if you know me, it made me cry.   Every woman wants to be loved and to be told in such a beautiful way.  His words will be imprinted on my heart forever.

Did you know that Pat is right?  After being married 26 years now, I too love him more today than yesterday and I mean that seriously. Bare with me here.  I know it is getting mushy, but I am headed somewhere with this and I hope that I can put into words what I am trying to say.   I truly believe that God has placed a soul mate on this earth for each of us and I know I found mine. One of my biggest prayers for my children is that they find the soul mate God has chosen for them and I pray they know love as we have.  I have been praying for each of their soul mates since my kids were little and my prayer is that God is preparing and working on the hearts of those my children marry. 

Marriage is hard and it does take effort, but I believe that God honors your faithfulness to each other, particularly when you put Him right in the middle of it.  Our marriage has had its rough spots too, but it truly gets sweeter as we get older. Pat and I both have talked about this a lot since 2008 when he was diagnosed with cancer the first time.  As I have said before, there are many gifts in cancer and one of those gifts has been a sweeter marriage and a closer friendship with each other.  We will tell you that the secret to our marriage is that he and I have a personal relationship with Christ. In order for me to be a good wife, I have to allow God to change me, heal me and mold me.  He isn't finished!

If you asked me today how we are doing in this journey, I would tell you that it is tough emotionally for both of us at times.  When we have those hard days, we can't depend on each other to get us through. We have to turn to God.  He is teaching me to be dependent on Him solely. In His word he reminds me that he is holding my right hand and he never leaves me.  That is why I love my Jesus Calling devotion because it focuses on God's presence and peace.  

Pat still gives me butterflies when I see him walk across the room or I see his name pop up on my phone when he is calling or texting me.  You know, I still feel like I did when I was 18!

Have a great weekend!

Hugs!
Paige
xoxo

Pat's Post Time

Howdy! Ya, it's me...... She has finally got me to write. I gotta tell ya though, it's hard to do. I have to be focused in the evening, when in the evening my mind is mush! I don't know how she does it every night. Oh, wait a minute! Yes I do! I am married to the most remarkable woman in the world! She can do anything! I got to be honest though. When I married her in 1984, I had no ideal what I was in for. I not only have 3 of the greatest kids but more importantly she introduced me to my Lord and Savior. I owe her everything. She has loved me through some of the best days and some of the worst days. I did not deserve her then and I do not deserve her now. She is my best friend and I love her with all my heart. In 2008, when I was battling my first bout with cancer, I had to spend 2 weeks in the hospital. When I closed my eyes to go to sleep, she was the last thing I saw and when I woke up, she was the first thing I saw. It was for the entire two weeks, she never left my side. This thing we are going through now, there have been days when I am miserable and very agitated. She's always there for me. I have expressed that due to financial reasons, she may not be able to go to Tulsa with me when I go for treatment every time. Well, you can imagine the response. I can tell you, other than Christ, I never knew you could love someone more than the day before but you can. Paige, I love you and cannot imagine my life without you. Thank you for tolerating me........ I'm sorry for the length of this but I've had nothing to say until now.........As for my L D Bell classmates, it so good to hear from you. You all mean so much and I do hope we can have another get together soon. Phil, thank you for the 8th grade basketball DVD. Great memories! I do hope there are more. I did hear from my favorite basketball coach a couple of weeks ago. Rolf Kuhlow, who lives in Louisiana. I always thought he was related to all time great coach John Wooden from UCLA. Great hearing from him and I hope to see him soon.......It's always good to hear from my friends from Kinro, where I worked for so long. We were all a part of building a very good company for so long. It's sad to see what we worked so hard to build, to see it all go away. I miss you guys very much......I also want to take this opportunity to tell everyone how thankful we are for your love and prayers. It's very humbling to me, to know so many care for us.......Thanks to my extended family in Hico for all that you do for us. A big thanks to Brian and Lecia. They would give you the shirt off their back. We love you guys! ............EY and LaNette, your cards and phone calls mean so much! We love you........To our life group, you were the first at the hospital, almost the minute I was diagnosed. We love you guys! My favorite two pictures are one, with us in a circle praying in my hospital room, and the other is all of us in my front yard. You guys are the best and I'm enjoying doing life with you...... Again, I'm sorry for the length..........(just about done) Let me also take this opportunity to remind my kids how proud we are of them. You continue to be very tolerant of me. You continue to do outstanding in school! My favorite daughter graduated from UNT! Kids even when the cards were dealt, your faith never wavered. WE ARE SO PROUD! Every day I wake up, I'm so thankful that I have a Father that loves me, no matter what! Kids, my love for you compares to the love Christ has for all of us. His love does not discriminate and is constant..........In closing to all this rambling, I would like to say thanks to all of you and God bless to all of you. I am so thankful for you in our lives and I do pray your lives are as fulfilling as mine. I thank God every day. As for me my days are sometimes good and sometimes bad, but mostly good. I have felt really good since Sunday and then all of a sudden today my back started hurting so I came home and soaked in the tub filled with epson salt. So each day is a different day. One thing I think about often is that there are so many people that are inflicted with this disease and that is pretty overwhelming when you think about how many. Cancer does not descriminate. I appreciate the prayers, but there are so many other folks who are suffering and need your prayers also. We need a cure. I know that Paige gave you an update on a bill that we are encouraging our congressmen to support, Pancreatic Cancer Research and Education Act, which was introduced Wednesday in the House of Representatives and the Senate. Thank you to those who have taken the time to write. This disease needs a higher priority.

Until next time,
Pat
Ephesians 3:20-21

Tuesday's Recap

Hello!  I must remind myself to save my text as I go tonight!  

I started talking about our calf hauling day yesterday, but I accidentally deleted it.  So, I must recap the short version.

We gathered the herd up Tuesday morning early with the four-wheelers into the pens, separated and all went so smoothly. We loaded the trailer with 21 calves with only a little bit of trouble.  The adventure started when Pat and I were driving down the county road leaving the ranch and he says he sees a leg sticking out of the trailer.  We had to push, shove, and poke to get the calf's leg back in the trailer. We were driving to Clifton and as soon as we were near the city limits we heard a huge noise.  We had a blow out.  That isn't unusual most of the time, but the last three times we have driven to the sale, we have had a blow out.  We actually bought that particular tire in October from the tire shop in Clifton.  Pat was frustrated and practically had to argue to get a new tire, but he got a free one.  When we arrived at the sale barn to unload, the center gate in the trailer was jammed and it took three men with a crowbar to open it.  Whew! I was glad to get them unloaded.  We ended our visit in Clifton with a visit to the DQ!   

Looking back on our day, it was quite comical.  It was a great day and I enjoyed hanging out with my favorite cowhand.

Today has been a good day as well and Pat is focused on the business.  We are thankful that he has felt good and was able to get all of the ranch work done. We do appreciate our help Saturday and our help from Brandon and Lola helping us yesterday morning.

The picture attached is one of my favorite views....riding behind Pat on the four-wheeler. Sweet!

Good night and sweet dreams!

Please Write Your Congressmen

I received this email tonight and I want to share it with you.  I need your help.  If you click on the link below, you can help fight Pancreatic Cancer.  It is a form that you can fill out and submit. Read more about Pancreatic Cancer....this deadly disease below.  I know that you and I can make a difference.

Thank you!
Paige

http://www.capwiz.com/pancan/issues/alert/?alertid=27323501

Information:
We’re excited to announce that the Senate version of the Pancreatic Cancer Research & Education Act  (S. 362) has been re-introduced by Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI)!

During the last Congressional session, the senate-version of the bill gained an impressive 29 co-sponsors in only seven months (the bill was introduced in May 2010).  It was through the incredible activity of advocates, like you, that we were able to be so successful in the last Congressional session – and we need your help again! 

Please write to your two (2) U.S. Senators and tell them why it is so important that they co-sponsor this groundbreaking legislation.  We encourage you to personalize your message to increase its impact by including your personal story in the space provided on the following page.  And remember: we need as many people as possible to join us in this important and urgent effort.  Please forward the link to your friends and family (www.pancan.org/TakeAction) and spread the word on Facebook and Twitter!

 Have any questions? Contact us at advocacy@pancan.org or 202-742-6699.

Pancreatic cancer is unique and therefore requires a unique solution. It is one of the deadliest cancers, killing 94% of those diagnosed within five years and 76% with the first year. The statistics have remained largely unchanged for nearly 40 years. In fact, pancreatic cancer is the only major cancer in the U.S. for which the five-year survival rate is still in the single digits. 

In spite of these alarming statistics, the National Cancer Institute (NCI) currently spends only 2% of its budget on pancreatic cancer - the fourth leading cause of cancer-related death in the U.S. Clearly, the status quo is not working. 

The Pancreatic Cancer Research & Education Act does not tell NCI how to conduct science. Instead, the bill calls on the NCI to develop and implement an appropriate strategic plan for the disease. The bill would also create a new research grant program for the deadliest cancers, piloting it first in pancreatic cancer. This bill is critical to change the status quo and furthering progress regarding this devastating disease. 

Oh Well I Lost It All

I just wrote a five paragraph journal entry that was completely wiped out.  I know this can happen and I didn't save it in time.  It was a recap of our eventful day of calf hauling. 

I am too pooped to retype it all, so I will save it for tomorrow!

Sweet dreams!
Paige
xoxo

PS  It was a sweet day!

Close Call

Well we just arrived in Hico after watching the game. The Spartans ended their season with a win against Southlake Carroll by 20 points. What fun it was watching these guys this year.

Garrett was playing in the last quarter and was driving for a layup and his legs were cut out from under him and he fell on his back while landing also on his arm and wrist. It was one of those falls that makes a crowd gasp, particular from his mom! I got it on video and had a hard time watching it again. Earlier in the game he got a finger in the eye. He will certainly be sore tomorrow. So glad that nothing was broken. My dad and Michele joined us for the game, so I am glad they were and able to see Garrett play.

Going to bed. We have to get up early to round up the cattle, sort the calves and haul them to the sale to Clifton. When I was growing up we used horses, but in this modern day, four-wheelers is much faster and quite fun!

Happy Valentines to you! I must say I have the best there is! I love you Patrick and so thankful I can call you mine for these 26 plus years.

Xoxo
Paige

App

Happy Birthday Kids

Hello!  Hope you have had a great Sunday!  It was nice waking up in Hico, but the only bad thing about that was we didn't get to go to church.  

This afternoon we had Elizabeth's and Matt's birthday dinner.  It was fun, but anytime we are together, I cherish it.  
Pat has felt good today and we both are feeling a little stiff from wrestling calves.  Tomorrow tonight after Garrett's game, we will return to Hico and wake up early Tuesday morning to take the calves to the sale.  

Tomorrow night Garrett has his last basketball for the season.  That makes me sad as I love watching them play.  Dad and Michele are planning on coming to watch Garrett play, so that will be a treat to see them twice this weekend.

I keep mentioning Cash in my journal, and for those who might not know, Cash is our two-year-old Australian Shepherd.
It will be a busy week around here and I am sure yours will be the same.  The weather forecast for the week is fantastic!

Attached is a picture of the birthday kids!  Have a blessed week!
Paige
xoxo

Hello From Hico

Hello from Hico!! Dinner is over. I made some spaghetti and we are putting our feet up and watching some tv.

We started our morning in Saginaw for Garrett's game against Coppell. Spartans won by at least 25 points One more game Monday night at home.

Following the game we headed straight to Hico to work the calves and will come back Tuesday to take a trailer load to the sale. The last time we worked them was in October, so we had about 40 head to vaccinate, few to dehorn and of course change those bulls to steers!! We also had a few wild ones that made it frustrating. Calves can be idiots! The weather was absolutely wonderful. We started by 1:30 and were done by 5:30. Pat felt good today and his stamina held up well. Mom was a great help. I cannot fail to mention our friends, Brian and Lecia, who were lifesavers. They are our neighbors and have several head that are mixed with our herd. Brian's sister and her husband and son filled in the other areas of help we needed. Thanks guys!

So, that is the recap of the day at the Double E.... not too exciting but a great escape for us. We will sleep good tonight! Oh, I forgot to mention how happy Cash is,,,,,he loves It here!

So y'all check back you hear?
Paige
Xoxo

TGIF

TGIF!  It doesn't feel like Friday since we have had this crazy weather, but did you see the forecast for next week?  70's!  Even this weekend will be nice.  

Pat and I got a treat today as we were able to eat lunch with my daddy-o!  Pat needed to measure some windows in Madill, so we were able to eat lunch at the new, hopping Deep South restaurant. Brenda, great place to eat.  I have known Brenda, the new owner, since I was a kid.   It was a very quick trip, but we got to see Michele, Tiffany and Nacona for a few minutes.  We were back home by 3:00.  I believe you could say that Pat and I are tearing up I-35 lately!

Pat feels better today, but energy level a little on the low side.  We are hanging out tonight and waiting on my mom to get here. Bless her heart, she has been on the north side of Fort Worth trying to get here and has been stuck in traffic for 45 minutes.   She is here for a day or two and will watch Garrett play basketball game tomorrow in Saginaw as well as go to Hico with us.

It will be nice to get out tomorrow and play with the cows!  It has been a while since we have been to Hico and I am so thankful for the warmer weather tomorrow as I do not like the cold.  

Which reminds me.  I didn't walk up hill in the snow to school everyday, but when this girl was growing up, she did her chores in the cold.  Kelly and I were very active in 4-H growing up.  We showed horses, cattle and pigs and since the livestock show was in March, it called for us to do all of those chores to get those animals ready in the cold weather.    I remember that it took me ten minutes to get my coveralls on and put on my gloves and boots. My Mom and Dad believed hard work was good for a kid and I do have them to thank for teaching me how to work and be responsible at such a young age.  However, when I go home to visit now, I just cringe if Mom or Dad ask me to feed!

This weekend, we are planning on celebrating Elizabeth and Matt's birthday since we were not home last weekend.  So, it is going to be a busy one!

Hope you have a great weekend!
Hugs!
Paige
xoxo

Rough Day

Hi all!  Enjoyed the sun shining today, but it is cold. Springtime sounds better and better each day.  

Pat's morning was rough with fatigue and body aches, but he was much better by lunch.  After seeing him feel so good for a couple of weeks, it is hard to see him this way.  He describes it as "hitting a wall" and he is so tired he can hardly do anything but sleep.  I am reminded that although the chemo is working, it does take a toll on him.   Frustration also comes because his mind is ready to move, but his body won't cooperate.  These are the days that we have to lean into Jesus.  As I type this, I am reminded of the devotional I read out loud to Pat on Monday morning. Jesus wanted me to hear it again. Remember, we didn't have a radio so I thought it would be good idea that morning to read it aloud.

"Come to Me for rest and refreshment. The journey has been too much for you and you are bone weary.  Do not be ashamed of your exhaustion.  Instead, see it as an opportunity for Me to take charge of your life.   Remember that I can fit everything into a pattern for good, including the things you wish were different. Start with where you are at this point in time  and space, accepting that this is where I intend you to be. You will get through today one step, one moment at a time.  Your main responsibility is to remain attentive to Me, letting Me guide you through the many choices along your pathway.    This sounds like an easy assignment, but it is not.  Your desire to live in my Presence goes against the grain of "the world, the flesh and the devil".  Much of your weariness results from your constant battle against these opponents. However, you are on the path of my choosing, so do not give up. "  Ephesians 2:6; Matthew 14:28-32.

Reading this again today spoke volumes to me.  We are where we intends for us to be.  Today, I don't like it and that is okay.  I have prayed today "I need your strength, Lord.  I need your presence and your touch. I am leaning into you".

Maybe that devotional spoke to you.  God has a way of giving us a word that is for someone else rather than ourselves.  Well, that word was for Pat on Monday and for me today, but I will share it if you need it too!

Until tomorrow!
Hugs!
Paige
xoxo
 

In My PJ's All Day Long

Hello!  I just typed up a very uneventful blog entry, but if I don't save it as I am creating it, I can lose it and I did!  Darn!

To tell you the truth, I am still in my pj's and loving it!  I have worked most of the day in front of Pat's beautiful fire that he has been poking all day!  He told me I looked beautiful a while ago.  He is looking sharp in his sweats too!

Pat is feeling good today, but he is having some bone ache. He has found that Epson salt baths help with that.

A busy weekend ahead and it is hard to believe that tomorrow is Thursday. Garrett only has two more games, Saturday and Monday.  Saturday afternoon we plan to go to Hico and work calves and get ready for the sale next week.  I hear the cattle market is really good right now!

I hope you have enjoyed a lazy and warm day and perhaps you are still in your pj's too!   

Sending all of our love
Paige
xoxo

We Made It Home

I am blogging early tonight because I am pooped and plan to go to bed early.  Pat and I arrived safely at home this morning at 2:30.  We left the center at 8:15 last night right after finished his chemo treatment.  My friends are so funny. Many texted me while I was driving and said that I could give them a call if I was sleepy, so I had a few on standby.  I did chat with my sister three times as she had to make sure I was okay.  Pat slept a lot of the way home, but I know he was nervous, so he probably had one eye open.  I will tell you one thing and that is I don't want to make that drive many times.  Plane or train, but no automobiles, please!

My friend, Kathy, visited our blog today and this is what she said about CTCA (Cancer Center) She along with her husband, Jerry, are of the very couples we met last October.  Kathy is a patient also. "I know this sounds silly, but life does slows down when cancer enters the picture. We learn just what is important in our lives. Our priorities shift and God shows us new things each day. I always say I am wrapped in prayer and God's love and that's the best place I could be."  Yes, I agree.  The center also can be the best place we could be.   I am always searching for words to describe to you just how special CTCA is.   One of the nurses to Dr. Yoeder, Cyndi, is retiring Friday from the center and will be moving to Houston where her husband has been living and working.  We hugged when we said goodbye and she wanted our contact information and wants to follow us on Caringbridge.  We have only known her since October, but she cared and loved on us.  Our lives are now entwined with such special people whether be staff or patients and these people placed in our lives have changed us. Do you know what is so obvious to Pat and I now?  Cancer does not discriminate. 

Thank you for your sweet comments, texts and messages in regards to our great results.  We feel your enthusiasm, joy and pure thankfulness.  Many, many times I find myself saying "Wow"!

In closing, I am reminded of my life verse.  John 13:7.  Jesus replied, “You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand."  I may not ever understand any of these trials we all go through, but if Jesus continues to reveal himself, his love and his faithfulness to me as He has, then this journey is worth it. 

Sweet dreams!

Paige

xoxo

Fantastic News Today

Hey guys!  I know you are waiting anxiously for the results as we were.  We were able to get into see the oncologist at 1:00 today vs 3:00.  Results are:

Tumor markers are now down to 61. There were multiple lesions on the liver before and now gone down significantly.  There is less activity in the stent area.  Cannot see any activity now in the neck of the pancreas.  Bone cancer is better, some minimal activity.   Both doctors, oncology and gastroenterology, are very pleased.  Dr. Yoeder, gastro doc, said that Pat has done a remarkable job considering what he has been through since 2008.  He was so encouraging and Dr. Stresthda, oncologist, was too!  Chemo treatment will still be every two weeks.

Pat has lost only two pounds, so we are even excited about that.  We met with Jason, nutritionist, and he was pleased with our progress and gave us more ideas to increase the calories with the protein. 

We are now at the center waiting on our chemo appointment which is at 5:30, but we are hoping they can get us in earlier.  We are planning on driving home tonight in order to avoid the snow that they are expecting here in Tulsa tomorrow, which will put us home after midnight.  I will have to do all of the driving, so please pray that I will be wide awake!  Since I don't have a radio, I may have to do all of the singing!  Ha!

Pat and I are elated with this news.  We both know that this news could be the opposite and we give God all of the glory.  Also, Pat and I know that prayer is key and you are part of this victory and you, our friends and family, are part of this winding journey.

All of our love,
xoxo 

Hanging With My Sis

Hello! Sitting here with a full stomach and enjoying my sis and her family.  Pat and I made mention to Brian that we hadn't eat a steak in such a long time and he fixed that right away.  We ate at the Cattleman's steak house in the stockyards area of Oklahoma City.  Pat and I are so thankful that they live close as it is nice to get away from the center.

As soon as I finished updating Caringbridge early this afternoon, Pat finished his scan.  He said that all went well.  Earlier this morning he had his first introduction to acupuncture.  He said it was enjoyable and not painful at all.  When I think of acupuncture all I think of are needles.  It is offered to all patients at the center and it helps with pain and fatigue.

We are going to hang out here with Kelly and Brian tomorrow and watch the game.  Our plan is to go back to the center tomorrow night.  They are calling for more snow, but not significant.

Kelton, my nephew, just asked me if this was my blog I was typing on and he wanted me to share with you how awesome is dog, Drover, is.  He says "Drover is the best dog, and he is the retired, fastest dog in Oklahoma.  He was also valedictorian of his obedience class."  Thank you, Kelton! 

Good night!  All our love!
Paige
xoxo

Waiting on the Scan

Hey there!  Wanted to give you a quick hello and an update.  I am sitting in the lobby at the cancer center and this laptop is keeping me company along with my cell phone and facebook!  I am so humbled. 

We woke up this morning to come to the center and Pat went to get the truck and it had been broken into.  They tore out the dashboard to get to the radio.  Fortunately, Pat was able to get the heater connected and we hope it works properly when it is time to drive it again.  They broke in through the lock on the driver's side.  That stuff makes me mad, but I am over it now.

Going to go for now.  I am going to pray..it is noon!

Hugs!
Paige
xoxo

We Made It

xoxo

"Prayers for Pat", 12 Noon, Saturday, February 5th

Whew!  We made it to Tulsa!  We left Burleson at 10:15 and arrived at 4:45.  We went I-35 to Oklahoma City and then over to Tulsa.  The roads were okay between Fort Worth and the Red River, but it was quite treacherous between Ardmore and Norman.  Fortunately, Pat's truck is four-wheel drive and he didn't ask me to drive!  At times I just played Words with Friends on my phone because I just couldn't look!

When we started off on our road trip I started seeing cars on the side of the road and I said "let's count cars".  He didn't like that idea, but I did actually count about 40.  There were a few that were upside down.  Scary!

Now we are in our hotel room watching the snow fall in "touristy Tulsa" Pat calls it!  Ha!  I have told you before that there are guest rooms at the center, but they also will put us up in the Holiday Inn across the street for the same price of $45.  The guest rooms in the center are so convenient when you have a lot of appointments or Pat is sick, but this is much more comfortable in the king suite at the hotel.  So, since we are going to be here for a few days, we asked to stay over here.  If the weather cooperates, we may drive back to Oklahoma City to stay with my sister, Kelly, since we do not have to be back in Tulsa until 10 AM Monday morning. 

Thank you for your sweet notes and texts telling us that you are praying for us. Tomorrow at noon Pat will have his scan.  I love the thought of all of us praying and lifting Pat's name in one accord tomorrow. 

Today's February 4th devotional reading was just perfect for me.  "Bring your weakness and receive my peace.  Accept yourself and your circumstances just as they are, remember that I am sovereign over everything. Do not wear yourself out analyzing and planning. Instead, let thankfulness and trust be your guides through this day; they will keep you close to me"....from Jesus Calling.

I know that God knows everything about me, and reading that devotional shows me he reads my mail too.  I try to analyze this cancer and plan every possible circumstance that can come from it. Gosh,  I am a planner by nature.  But, He reminds me over and over to just trust and live each moment with Him...He is walking alongside of me. 

Thankfulness is not hard for me.  I find myself saying constantly "I have so much to be thankful for, Lord".  I actually have an ongoing list in the back of my journal that I add to each day and when those tough days come around, I just read and feel loved.

Pat, the kids and I are so thankful for you.  We have never felt so much love and support as we do now. 

The picture attached is Elizabeth and Jessica having fun yesterday on her birthday!  Love you girls!

Pat says hello to everyone.  We pray you are safe and warm!  I will be reporting from Touristy Tulsa tomorrow!

Hugs!
Paige & Pat

Happy Birthday Elizabeth

Hello and good morning!  It is 12:06 AM.  I am just a tad late on the blog update, but it has been a big day.  We have a birthday girl in the house who turned 24 so we have been busy.  Elizabeth spent the night with Jessica last night so she woke up to breakfast in bed served  by Wendy this morning.  I told Wendy she is making me look really bad serving the princess like that.  Around lunch time Elizabeth, Jessica, Wendy and I spent the afternoon together doing girl things.  We had a few slipping and sliding fun on the ice, but we made it okay.  For dinner we met up with Pat and Dennis for some dinner at Blue Mesa Grill.  We had such a good time.  When we got back to Burleson we picked up Garrett and the family (minus one. .Matt we miss you!) watched a movie. 

Pat and I are heading out to Tulsa tomorrow and we are going to drive.  We will be taking it safely and slowly.  It is not the best time to travel, but if the center is open we won't to be there. 

There is no school again tomorrow for the fourth day in a row, so the kids are loving it until they have to make it up in the near future when it nice, warm and sunny.

I am heading to bed.  I ask that you pray for us as we drive to Tulsa and pray protection over my kids while we are gone. 

Sweet dream!
Paige
xoxo

"Prayers for Pat" Saturday February 5, 12:00 Noon

Same Song, Second Verse

Oh it is the same song but now the second verse...iced in and I still have not brushed my hair, but I did change to some comfy sweats.  Garrett is still at friends and Cash keeps wanting to play ball over and over!  I personally do not have cabin fever yet and I have enjoyed myself and my company. My company, Pat, is getting restless, but he is feeling pretty good.

What a surprise Miss Elizabeth received today.  She has been walking aroud this house for two days complaining how bored she was, her birthday may not be any fun because of the weather, one of her favorite heels were broken and she needs to get it fixed, she has so much to do at work, yada, yada, yada.  But, at 3:45 she had a huge surprise.  Jessica, her BFF, flew in today from San Diego to suprise her.  Elizabeth was in her room when Jessica came through the front door.  Jessica waited in the kitchen for Elizabeth to come out of her room.  We kept calling Elizabeth, but she was taking her time.  She walked out of her room and when she saw Jessica she said "Shut up!  What are you doing here!"  It was priceless.  That was so very sweet of you Jessica to surprise her for her 24th birthday.

It is so hard to believe that my Wiz-a-buff will be 24 tomorrow.  Her age does make Pat and I feel old, but most of all "where did the time go?"  Elizabeth, I hope you have a memorable and special birthday tomorrow!

Thank you to those who prayed for Pat today at 12 noon and  loved receiving your nice notes and thoughts.  Since we will be scanning on Saturday, we are asking for prayer again at 12 noon on Saturday, February 5th.  There are never too many prayers said and I know God hears every prayer we pray.

I am thanking God today for the blessing of a warm home and electricity today.  It is easy to forget what pleasures we have at our fingertips.  When the electricity went off this morning at about 8:30 we heard it and it woke us up.  My first thought was "oh no...there will be no coffee without electrcity. Thankfully our electricity was only off for about 20 minutes. 

Hope you stay warm tonight!

Hugs!
Paige
xoxo

Baby It's Cold Outside

"Baby, it's cold outside"...love that song.

What an icy, cold, windy day and I stepped outside once to get a trash can that blew over in the ditch. I about busted it in my houseshoes.  I have not gotten out of my xoxo pj's all day long. I have actually worked most of the day so that I could get caught up on some things. I love my job working on the church website and I consider it fun!

As you know we were to fly to Tulsa today at 2 PM.  They canceled that flight and rescheduled us for 3:45 and ditto the same for the 5:25.  I gave the cancer center a call to see if the staff were able to come in and most of them were working from home.  The PET Scan was down today due to Fed Ex deliveries and they felt like that could be a problem for a few days.  We are now scheduled to arrive the center at 9 AM this coming Saturday and do the PET at 12 noon, so we will be leaving for Tulsa on Friday.  We will have to wait until Monday to see the doctor.

I am thankful they were able to get us in this weekend as the next available appointment to see our oncologist was February 14th.  I am sad though that I will not get to birthday with the kids this weekend.  We will be here for Elizabeth's birthday on the 3rd, but Matt's is Super Bowl Sunday and we will miss his big day as well as Garrett's game on Saturday. Of course, they understand, but birthdays and games are important. 

Nothing else to report from around here.  Garrett did talk his dad into taking him over to a friend's house this afternoon since school is closed tomorrow.  He said he was so bored!  Matt got a snow day today and Elizabeth was home too!  I made some chili for dinner, so it was a pretty laid back day...I loved it!  

I hope that you enjoyed your day.  It looks like the same scenario tomorrow.  Perhaps I can get some taxes done (not so much fun).

Hugs!
Paige
xoxo

Date changed:  "Prayers for Pat", Saturday, February 2nd, 12 Noon.  Thank you!