Tuesday, September 14, 2010

Where has the time gone?

Today is my son Stephen's 33rd birthday. How can that be? It seems like just the other day he was a baby with the most gorgeous blond curls. Happy birthday, Stephen!!

Here is a photo Tom took last month when he met Stephen and Michelle in Wapakoneta (halfway between Cincinnati and Fort Wayne) so that he could give them the bookcase for the baby's room. Since I couldn't go because of my back, I asked Tom to take this photo of Michelle and Stephen. Doesn't Michelle look incredible for someone who is due to have her first child in a few weeks? The baby is due in 6 days--September 20th. Michelle's doctor won't let her go any longer than the 27th, so soon we'll be welcoming a new grandson to our family. Of course, I'm VERY disappointed that it will be a while before we can make the drive over to Fort Wayne. Thank goodness we both have Skype.

Next is a photo of our other grandson, Haiden, who is now 2-1/2. His 3 big loves are Thomas the Tank Engine, Curious George, and anything relating to firemen. Our daughter, Carolyn, told us that he's going to be a fireman for Halloween. Haiden likes to walk around saying ""I a fireman Halloween". Carolyn wants to find him a stuffed dalmatian. Won't that be cute?

As my mobility becomes more and more limited, I am spending the 4th straight day in bed. Tom has suggested that I not even do stairs today. You should see the bed full of magazines, books, etc. He has also moved my flowers and cards upstairs; it's so nice to be able to see them from my bed. Today I also got a lovely phone call from a friend in Texas who recently had back surgery. Until today I had no idea she had the same surgery six weeks ago. It was very reassuring to talk with her.

I was very sorry to have to postpone my next class; we'll probably be rescheduling it in a few months. As to the new designs, they are within a few hours of being able to be printed and packaged. However, I don't think I'll do that until after my surgery since I don't think I can package them while lying down. We'll try to post photos of the other two new designs soon.

I've got lots of needlework photos to post. Thank you to all who have sent me things. I'm sorry that it has taken so long to get them posted. I hope to get them up in the next few weeks. Thanks for your patience.

Also thank you for all your warm and caring thoughts. They have certainly been lifting my spirits.

13 comments:

Margaret said...

I'll be keeping you in my thoughts and prayers for sure. Lovely pics of the kids and grandchild. I can't believe Haiden is 2 1/2!

Barb said...

My thoughts and prayers will be with you! Hopefully you will have a speedy recovery! Grandchildren are certainly one of life's great joys! Your Grandson is so cute!!!

Anonymous said...

Thanks Tom for all the up-dates. Wish I lived nearby to help out. Looking forward to the new Horn book designs. Hope Ellen's surgery goes well, and that the recuperation period is swift.
Beat regards, Zeena

Heather said...

Ah what an adorable little fireman.

Roberta said...

Hi Ellen, I do hope that you will be feeling much better after the surgery, so sorry that you are still in pain.

Love your little fireman and looking forward to seeing a pic of your newest grandson.

Know you are in my prayer - take care -- Roberta

Anonymous said...

I can't believe what a tiny tummy she has! Although I'm sure it doesn't feel tiny to her. :) I was freakishly huge, and people were always asking me how many babies I had in there! ha! I just love babies- there's nothing better. Have fun with the new little one!

Sherry :o) said...

in my thoughts and prayers, Ellen - it's never fun to have health issues. And don't worry about getting your things packaged and out - I think most stitchers are very understanding people (or they should be). Cute Hayden pics and hope to see pic of that new grandbaby soon - he'll be thrilled to meet you whenever you get there!

Denise said...

So sorry to hear you are still 'laid up' as we say.... I'm sure it is a very aggravating situation for you. I wish you free of pain and
total healing soon.

Karmen said...

It was so weird when my oldest son turned thirty in April, so I know what you mean. How can they possibly be that old? Lovely grand baby. I am jealous. Karmen

klmvangard said...

Dear Ellen,

I'm so sorry to read of your back problems! I've been so wrapped up in my son's wedding and then the decompression afterwards, that I've been very out of the loop. Wish there were some way I could offer help or assistance, both personally or professionally. Give big thanks to Tom for all the updates I read today. And great big hugs to you!

Karen H.

Anonymous said...

Ellen, I will be praying for your recovery after the surgery, that it will be complete and swift. Our God is able to do exceedingly above we ask or expect. Praise His Name. Your back problems sound a lot like mine, Physical Therapy, epidermal shots, pain pills don't fix the problems we have. Surgery is the only answer. Mine is scheduled for Sept 28th and frankly, I am looking forward to it after suffering as you are. I am having a laminectomy of L 2-3,3-4,4-5. A neurosurgeon is doing the surgery. I will be anxious to hear how you are doing. That new grandson needs kisses from Grandma. Margaret in Texas

Kathy Ellen said...

Ellen, your little grandson is precious. I recall when one of my younger brothers was little, that he told everyone that he was going to "BE a firetruck", when he grew up! You must be so excited about the new little one soon to come too!
My prayers are with you for your surgery to be a success and for your complete healing and recovery.

God Bless You!

Carol said...

Ellen, I feel your pain in your words! If you have not had your surgery yet, it will be coming up this week. Wishing you a very speedy recovery! carol in toledo