“I will give thanks to the LORD with my whole heart; I will recount all of your wonderful deeds” (Psalm 9:1).
Yes, so much for AccuWeather, initially it was forecasted to be cloudy all day long with rain this evening. I woke up thankful for a bright a bright sunshiny day and for the blessings of the gift of life. I love when the meteorologist to wrong when they predict cloudy days. I hope we don't get the predicted rain for this evening too. The clouds did move in on the early afternoon and form a complete overcast and it began to rain mid afternoon. Oh no, my sister called and told us that our cousin was mugged in the city yesterday and was hospitalized from his injuries. Who attacks an 85 year old elderly man? Prayers for our Lord care. I began my big cook and started off making the Cantonese pan fried noodles. Then I fried spicy tofu for Rob and then pan seared up a nice bone-in ribeye steak for Isaac before steaming Cantonese style tilapia fish for Andrea. Then I did the prep work slicing up two packages of rice noodles and mama help prep the bok choy chop for tomorrow's cook. The song of the day is, Beginnings – Chicago. I still remember how the Chicago Transit Authority literally blew me away when they came out with their debut album on my senior year of high school. the verse of the day is, "Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice" (Philippians 4:4). The world gives us plenty of things that can bring us down and lose sight of joy. Our hope and joy is found in our Lord and Savior, Christ Jesus.
3 April 2025
Yes, sunshine! Getting a good night's rest and waking up to the morning sun is the bomb. Thanks be to God for the gift of a new day. I looked at the 45 in day forecast and it looks like we are about two weeks out from what I would consider spring like weather. Albeit breezier and cooler than I still like it to be, how can we not go out and about on a bright sunshiny day? We went to the Fox Valley area and I did my walk inside the Aldis while mama showed for what nots. We also stopped at the Chinese supermarket and bought the needed to make Cantonese comfort food for this weekend. The plan is to make gon chow ngau ho for Isaac and Peyton and hong jong chow mein for Andrea and spicy tofu for Rob. It was so sad to see the sky became completely overcast by the noontime hour. I noticed that there are signs of chlorophyll beginning to show, it won't be long now before the trees begin to bud and flower. We stopped for gas and it dropped a whopping ten whole cents at $3.499 a gallon, so sad. Sweet, the sky cleared again after a couple of hours and there was a nice mix of sun and clouds. I finally got around to trying out the Boost High Protein shake. My brother gave a vanilla and a strawberry flavor 8 oz. bottle. I only tried out half of the vanilla one today because a single bottle is 250 calories. I thought that the taste of the shake was fine. I made us stir fried beef with green beans for our dinner. What is going on? I had a runny nose all day long. I love our evening facetiming family time. God is good, he blesses us with the gift of family and his steadfast love endures forever.
2 April 2025
I woke up premature to the sound of a series of loud thunder claps and ongoing sound of distant rumbling. I am thankful for God's protection and was thankfully able to fall back asleep. This time I woke up at my usual time thankful to the start of another new day. It is quite a contrast to see a creep looking gloom and doom dark grey sky and rain. I have to wonder it there will area flooding. We lucked out this morning at the hospital and got the closest parking spot to the entrance because I have a temporary handicap permit for our car. It would have been a mess to have to walk a distance in the pouring rain that was torrential at times. I had to take an Outpatient non-invasive EKG treadmill stress test. We made plans yesterday to have my brother and sister over for lunch but those plans were scrapped because of the intensity of the ongoing severe weather with the potential of high winds, tornadoes and large hail in our area. With all the rain and nitrates from the thunder, the grass has become so green and looks almost ready to be mowed whenever the weather will permit, it’s not quite 2 to 3 inches long just yet. We are blessed with modern technology be it a simple phone call or video chatting with friends and family. I thought it was interesting how long Pokémon has been around, I still remember when Alex was about the same as Isaac is now when it first came out. And to see these two play and talk about the characters is really fascinating. Looking back, it is hard to believe that I though video calls was a lame idea. Mmm, I made us pan fried bone-in pork chops with peas and rice for our sides for our noontime meal, delicious. Thanks be to God for our safe keeping and prayers for peaceful night’s rest and for a better day weatherwise.
1 April 2025
Glory to God in the highest! I woke up to a beautiful sunrise evermore thankful for the new day and for the gift of life. It is good to see the sun come up over the horizon just as you are waking up next to that special someone in your life, I am so blessed. Mmm, I was surprised to see half a English muffin with my oatmeal this morning, it has been so long since I've tasted and enjoyed the taste and texture and deliciousness of all those nooks and crannies. I finally got around to starting a one thousand piece jigsaw puzzle that my sister-in-law and her husband gifted me for Christmas. I can already tell that this bad boy is going to take me a long while to complete. Got to love working with tiny irregular shaped tabs. Away got to stop penning and get ready for bed, I have an appointment to do a stress test early tomorrow morning at the Rush Copley Medical Center in Aurora. Prayers for a good night’s rest.
31 March 2025
Whoa, we heard the howling wind picking up last night while in bed. The news showed images of the destruction across the country from the massive storm that spawned tornadoes, hail and power outages over the weekend. I woke up this morning evermore thankful for God's protection and for the blessings of this new day. Albeit rain is expected this time of year, I'm not much on the sudden below freezing temperature drop, brr. I think that I would have most likely stayed in today if I didn't have a six month follow-up endodontic for appointment this morning. I was surprised that I still needed to make another follow-up a year from now. I just begged to inquire why, apparently the bone in takes time to regrow and fill in and is now about 75 percent filled in. We went to the Oswego area afterwards and I got in a walk inside the Target. Gas prices are still high at $3.599 a gallon and I still blame Biden for the causing the price to sky rocket, but it seems as though Trump can't reign it back in like he claimed he could either. I fail to comprehend what is going on with protest and vandalism to Tesla dealerships, so looked at a few YouTube videos regarding the 'Tesla Takedown' at several different US Tesla dealerships and thought it was sad that the protesters weren't able to articulate what they were protesting. Even more sad were the 'F bomb' this and 'F bomb' that. However, I did see a bunch of obnoxious protesters having a meltdown while encountering the presence of anti-protesters wearing MAGA hats. Albeit it remained a rather cool brisk day, at least the sky cleared up and had a nice mix of sun and clouds for the remainder of the day. I boiled a chicken breast and ate half of it with green peas and rice for dinner. I was surprised that it tasted pretty good with any seasoning whatsoever. Tomorrow is known as April Fool Day, I'm not sure I loathe that day in the year or Halloween more, both are stupid. I love evenings when the kids call to FaceTime. There was a mention of Rob bring Andrea and our grandkids down to visit us this weekend. I can't think of a better way to bring the day to a close. God steadfast love endures forever.
30 March 2025
I woke early this morning as usual, thanking and praising God. Surprisingly, a short while later I dosed off a got in about an hour of extra zzzs. Kaboom, I woke up to the sound of a heavy thunderstorm. I haven't seen it rain cats and dogs like this in a long while. Mmm, mama made us tuna sandwiches on toast and a salad for our lunch. Rainy day truly make for a lazy day. It is very telling how I complain about things that pale in magnitude to the domestic as well as global hardships. Lord, have mercy.
29 March 2025
We woke up to another overcast day and expect it to rain, but I am thankful for this new day and for God our everlasting light. Albert we are transitioning into the rainy season, at least it's won't be cold today and tomorrow mid day. We went to Edwards for Fawn's for one of her annual screening exams. It was slightly cooler this morning than I liked, so did my walk indoor around premise there. My afternoon was very peaceful and relaxing, we had classical music playing in the background. I made us stir fried beef with tomatoes for our supper. Today is Isaac's 8th birthday, bless this child, O Lord, and guide his path... Joy, I was wondering if we were going to gather as a family and FaceTime to sing and celebrate the little man's birthday. What a nice way to bring the day to a close, God is good, he is good indeed.
28 March 2025
God willing, I routinely wake up at 6:30 every morning blessed with the gift of another new day. With sounding too mushy, waking up next to my lovely wife is a true blessing. The song, Love (Can Make You Happy) - Mercy, ran through the back of my mind. I was hoping that the overnight rain would have blown by, but that didn't happen until about eight o'clock. I am looking forward to the temperature climbing up to the mid 70s later in the day. How could we not go out and about and enjoy the unseasonably good weather? Our first stop was to the emissions testing center. Then mama went to a few stores at the strip mall where I got in a decent outdoor walk pacing back and forth like a centurion. I enjoyed my walk but needed a break after about 40 minutes of going at and took a ten minute break before having another go. Initially my walk this morning was a zip-a-dee-doo-dah, plenty of sunshine affair, but just like that the clouds moved in and it began to rain. It was a good thing there is a build-in canopy along all the storefronts. My walk then morphed into a Lenten walk not as penance, but as a time of reflection. I began seeing myself as the depraved wretch that I truly am and my need for Christ. Truly, Christians are poor miserable beggars in need of him. The sky cleared again and sun came back out making in a drop dead afternoon. It was so warm that we went to the backyard to swap out the large perforated sump pump hose that we use during the winter months to the smaller hose we otherwise use and to clean lont off the dryer vent louvers, well Fawn actually did all the work.
27 March 2025
Of course I am grateful and thank God that we are alive but will admit that waking up to the gloom and doom darkness, I had to fight off the sense of lethargy which is kind of surprising because I peacefully enjoyed sleeping under the warmth of the new blanket that my sister gifted me. Mmm, mama bought tacos from Burrito Parrilla Mexicana for our lunch. It was fascinating to read about and muse about the Catholic and the Orthodox teachings of what happens to our souls immediately after our death. Albeit I don't outright reject the notion of 'Purgatory' or 'Aerial Toll House', I don't give much credence to these dogmatic teachings either.
26 March 2025
Thanks be to God for the blessings of this bright sunshiny new day. Glory be to the Father, to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. It is the norm for me now to routinely wake up early in morning to take my meds. It is amazing how much meds I am on now since my bypass surgery. I finally got around to updating the medication list on the emergency info section on my smartphone. I had the first appointment at the dentist office for teeth cleaning and definitely needed to readily have that information for them. We headed out early during rush hour traffic, but that isn't anywhere as bad in the burbs as it is heading into the city. Albeit the mornings are at or about the freezing mark this time of year, it tends to warm up into the mid 50s by mid day. I can deal with that, I still prefer it be late May and early June in the 70s. Unbelievable, shook my head when we stopped for gas, $3.599 a gallon. Grr, she's a goin' the wrong direction. I was reminded today that most states are red and began musing again about all the vandalism being perpetrated on Tesla cars and dealerships. What is wrong with people? Clearly more moral philosophy needs to be taught on the secular level. Surly Christians are following God's precepts. Beyond terrorism and the destruction of property is the evil of hatred to the point of taking a life. My sister told me yesterday that the trial for the senseless and viscous murder of our cousin's husband that was captured on a school security camera in Chicago is coming up soon. Why would someone drive by in a car and shoot someone, stop and get out and shoot them again point blank and then drive away? My mind then went into Lent mode and I then reflected on my own grievous sins. Lord, please take away the iniquity of my foolishness. Teach me, O Lord, your precepts that I may walk in your ways. Talk about literally walking, I put on my cloth mask and walked the inside parameter of Meijer twice. I could tell that I was doing a Slowskys, but it is what it is. I'm counting on improvement over time. I wonder about our physical condition as we age, but would never question God’s dealings with me and rejoice for he has dealt with me bountifully. Thanks be to God for his steadfast love.
25 March 2025
We woke up to a cold brisk morning with overcast skies. It always seems to be below freezing at the Crack of dawn, but thankfully the temperature works it's way up into the low 50s by mid afternoon and the sun came out. My brother and sister came for a visit and mama made us spaghetti for lunch. The time just flew by as we sat yapping for hours on end. It was nice that my sister gifted me with a Bedsure fleece blanket simply because she learned that I am always cold. I have been musing about how some people are going about violently protesting against Trump and Musk. I am totally blown away by the destruction of private property by some of these domestic terrorist. I definitely do not understand the logic behind the 'Tesla Takedown' movement. Sounds like anarchy to me. How is democracy being destroyed? I reached another milestone today, it was my nurse's and my physical therapist's at home visit. I made us beef with pea pods over rice for our dinner. It was a joy to FaceTime with all the kids, I can't think of a better way to close the day. Our grandkids look like they are enjoying their time on the beach. They were all tired out before the call was over and fell fast asleep. My day is complete. God has blessed my comings and goings. I need to go to bed now and wake up early to go for my dental appointment to have my semi-annual teeth cleaning. Prayers for a peaceful night’s rest.
24 March 2025
Thanks be to God for this new day. Despite hearing the howling wind blowing throughout the night, I still managed to get a good night's rest. We went out this morning to exercise voting in our consolidated election early at the Mall of India. It is alarming and I think it is important to vote more than ever as some of the candidate’s ideas are so seemingly foreign or misguided to me. Glory to God's province, may his will prevail. We then went to my Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation doctor's appointment at the Rush-Copley Medical Center in Aurora. It is good to learn that I am continuing to grow stronger and progress. Afterwards, we went to take a peek at the Rush-Copley Cardiac Rehabilitation Center where I plan to do my Phase 2 cardiac rehabilitation. We stopped by Portillo's and split a hamburger for our noontime meal. With it being so windy, just like that, the sun came out early afternoon while we were still out and about and that cheered me up a lot. The few white clouds contrasting against the blue sky made for a nice car ride. It finally got out of the 30s and made it into the mid 40s with the sun out. It was nice of my sister to give me a wellness call; we made plans to have her and my brother come visit us tomorrow. I thank God for the blessing of family. Today was a very good day, God’s steadfast love endures forever.
23 March 2025
"Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name!" (Psalm 103:1). I thank God for this new day and for all his benefits. Alex called this morning to say that he and Joann arrived in Dallas safely. I thank God for their safe travel. May the Lord bless this new chapter in his life. We did a FaceTime call with all our kids, how can that not bring joy to one's heart. Alex was just going out the door to walk over to the nearby dog park with Nala. I was envious see him in the sunshine and warm eighty degree Dallas temperature while comparing it to the rain storm in the mid 40s we are experiencing. The weather is really crazy here in the Midwest this past week, you have to be ready for warm spring life weather in the 70s with plenty of sunshine, cold damp days as well as for a hail storm and for snow. The wind has really picked up this evening, we can hear wind hollowing. Prayers for our safe keeping and for those of all my love ones and for a peaceful night's rest.
22 March 2025
Thanks be to God for this new day. Bless us, O Lord, and govern our thoughts, words and deeds according to precepts. Albeit today is a much cooler and breezy day, it is at least a bright and sunshiny one as we move closer to the rainy season. We have to endure the March winds and April shower before the weather becomes tame and pleasant. I watched the second round of the NCAA Tournament game between Arkansas and St John and cheered on the Hogs to their 75 to 66 victory. Sweet, we all got on FaceTime to wish Jennifer a happy birthday. It is amazing that God has entrusted three of his little ones to the likes of someone like me.
21 March 2025
Happy Friday! Thanks be to God for this new day. May we not take his grace and salvation for granted. Albeit we are having a bright beautiful mild day temperaturewise, it is quite a windy one. Facing and hearing the howling sound created by the March winds is quite common in our neck of the woods. I'm happy to learn that Isaac is doing better this morning. I ate a char sui boa for breakfast, what a wonderful way to start the day. Of course we went to Alex's today; we stopped at the Jewels and bought a nice porterhouse steak to make for our dinner. I was a happy camper gnawing the meat off the bone. Normally mama buys us a ribeye, but I'm guessing she couldn't find one with a decent size cap. There is nothing wrong with a porterhouse with a decent size tenderloin (filet mignon), both steaks are good in their own right. Truly, food is a gift from God. It not only meant to sustain us, but is to be enjoyed and eaten with gladness. It is a blessing to be able to break bread with family and friends. I know many will be on the road ways, prayers for safe travel.
20 March 2025
So much for looking forward to the first day of spring all winter long. Brr, it did not surprise me to wake to two inches of overnight snow, because the temperature rapidly cooled down in the evening last night. I am glad that the sun is out and the temperature rose enough to melt the snow where needed. We had a peaceful morning playing classical music as background music. Mama made us one of her delicious salads for a light noontime meal. I had my routine scheduled nephrologist doctor's appointment this afternoon. We had a lot of concerning questions given my new health condition and circumstances. We wanted to make sure we had a really nice meal with Alex before he moves, so we order a carryout from Maggiano's to bring to Alex's for a late lunch/early supper. It was in the mid 40s by mid afternoon and all the snow had completely melted. The sky was a beautiful blue with a nice mix of white contrasting white clouds that made for a nice car ride. Mmm, excellent choices, mama ordered the rigatoni d and the chicken francese. Yessir, that there was some really good eatin'. Oh no, Isaac was under the weather today, prayers to ease his discomfort and restore his strength.
19 March 2025
Kaboom! It was a good weather day, we had thunderstorms all day long and a hail storm early evening to boot. It is not uncommon to have rainy and gloomy days in March going into April. I use to find overcast days so depressing but nowadays I use the time to mediate and reflect on God’s word and to seek his guidance and strength. Just as God sends the rain to nourish the earth, he showers us with grace upon grace with love and mercy. Thanks be to God for this day.
18 March 2025
I woke up excited for the new day because of the expected spring like weather, but it was a little disappointing to see completely overcast skies because the forecast called for a mixture of sunshine and clouds. It has been exactly seven weeks since my coronary artery bypass surgery. I have an appointment this with my cardiologist this morning. We are glad that he has an office in Oakbrook, that beats having to drive all the way into the Rush University Medical Center in the city. I was given the order for the phase 2 cardiac rehabilitation. We went to Alex's after lunch. It was nice that the sun was out by then and that the temperature was already in the low 70s! Oh wow, so much for hoping the Trump could lower the gas prices. Sigh, gas was $3.599 a gallon. I became a little sadden as the realization that our son will be moving out of state very soon. I am thankful that we have access to modern technology and will be able to at least video chat. I know that all our children are adults, but they are all such a blessing. They are a gift from God and we love them all dearly.
17 March 2025
Top O' the Mornin' Happy Saint Patrick's Day! Thanks be to God for this new day. Brr, it is still super cold this morning. It was in the low 20s this morning when we woke up, but the day promises to be much milder as it will soar up into the mid 50s by mid afternoon. I saw devastating images of the storm that spawned deadly tornadoes that swept across our nation over the weekend. I am thankful the Lord has shielded us from harms way. We went out to meet up with my brother to do lunch early at Baker's Square to avoid the noontime lunch crowd. The restaurant never got crowded, so we justly sat around and ended up yapping for an hour and a half enjoying each other's company. I love that the sun is out; the sunshine makes for a more cheerful day. I must of been pretty tire because I laid down to do a few of the physical therapy exercises on my back and somehow dosed off. Mmm, mama made nice salad for supper. Sweet, the kids facetimed us. I was ahead on the weather app for tomorrow and didn't realize that the expected high for the day will be in the upper 60s. Thank you Lord for your gracious presence. Keep our hearts and our thoughts secure in holy reverence in you. Forgive us of our sins and graciously keep us.
16 March 2025
Brr, it's cold outside and snowing. Dang, winter is definitely putting up a pretty good fight just days before the first day of spring. The temperature is expected to remain in the 30s all day today. Despite the less than ideal weather conditions, it is good to be alive. I thank God for all our winter provisions. Oh wow, good thing we were near the Walmart because one of the windshield wipers flew off the car while we were driving on the road to do a package pickup at the Old Navy before heading out to Alex's. Albeit it wasn't until the noon hour when all met up, we started out the day feasting on streamed shui mai and bean curd, breakfast sausage links, a pastries. I was happy to see that the bump on Isaac's forehead was completely gone and there were no signs of any bruising whatsoever. We sat around and watch, Moana 2, on the Disney Plus channel while Andrea and mama went to the Barnes & Noble Bookstore. We ate again at three o'clock. Alex tossed a package of ten store brought manicotti in the oven and sliced up corned beef. For our sides we had corn, scalloped potatoes and white cheddar parmesan macaroni and cheese. I had to fight off the urge to go back for second helpings. I started to say that it was strange not to contribute to any of the cooking again, but I just remembered that I did breakfast sausage links this morning. Albeit we didn't get to spend much time talking to our grandkids, just having them around brings so much joy to our hearts. Thanks be to God for this day and for the gift of family.
15 March 2025
Despite waking up to a rather windy dreary looking day, I thank God for the gift of a new day and for protection from last night’s major storm. The weather is crazy and I'm not liking the rain. Albeit it is much cooler today than it was yesterday, the temperature today is seasonable. We it drop in temperature today will pale in comparison to tomorrow when we will once again be below freezing, what a difference a day makes. The air pressure light came on yesterday and we filled air in the one tire, but it was low again this morning, so we drove the car in to the Discount Tire store on Route 59 in town. It turns out that there was a nail in the tire and thankfully they were able to repair the tire within a hour on a busy Saturday morning. Albeit Rob was on his way to come pick us, I was glad he didn't need to come all the way down and was able to do a turnabout and go about his day. His selflessness and mindfulness towards us is a blessing. I am definitely a cranky old man, I can't help but to wonder how people can stand blasting loud music. I spent a little time looking at the ballot online for the upcoming election and was mostly interested in the candidates running for our city council. It looks like we are meeting up with the kids tomorrow. Mama did all the cooking today and made a pot of her infamous pasta sauce as well as boiled two one pound boxes of mostaccioli noodles and boiled a 3.8 pound slab of Saint Patrick's Day corned beef! It feels weird not to contribute to any of the cooking. The verse of the day is, "fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand" (Isaiah 41:10). My hope and trust is in the Lord who will strengthen and uphold me with his righteous hand. He is our ever-present help in our time of need. It’s time to stop penning and to get ready for bed since we will be getting up early and go to Alex’s early in the morning. Prayers of thanksgiving and gratitude for God’s love and provisions.
14 March 2025
Thanks be to God for this new day. I woke up excited for this new day with the expectation of exceptionally nice weather. It was so peaceful and relaxing listening to classical music this morning. Now that's what I'm talking about, it was already in the low 70s by noon! Albeit a tad windy for my liking, what can I say? After all we are in the month of March. We went to Alex's for our noontime meal. Mama made us croissant deli meat sandwiches with potato salad and fruit. I'm still enjoying a simple car ride in the sunshine, but I think the grayish blue sky was a little strange. Oh wow, the high ended up being in the upper 70s during the early evening; I actually could feel the warmth of the sun on my face. I it is my understanding that a severe thunderstorm is heading our way and is expected to arrive sometime near midnight tonight, prayer for divine protection and intervention.
13 March 2025
"The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness" (Lamentations 3:22-23). Thanks be to God for this new day a day the opportunity to be renewed. I must be insane because it got into mid 60s today and I opted to stay indoors at home all day. Mama went out this morning and got a haircut. She is a beautiful as ever. I made myself a healthy but rather bland lunch. I boiled baby carrots and a chicken breast. Since I was in a cooking mood, it was time for a dinner and a movie. I made us beef with pea pods and had it over steamed rice for dinner. Albeit we watch Wicked in the movie theater, we liked it so much that we bought the DVD.
12 March 2025
I am so glad that we went to bed early last night because we got up early to go for my blood work and out and about to the Sam's Club. We were surprised that gas was selling for $3.099 a gallon at the Shell station across from there because gas prices was showing it for twenty cents a gallon more on Google Maps everywhere in our area. Enjoying a car ride on a bright sunshiny never gets old as long as the sun isn't along the horizon. We went out to Alex's mid afternoon and by then it warmed up to around 60 degrees! Now I can see how it could possibly warm up into the mid 70s by Friday. Today was my fifth physical therapy session with my home physical therapist. She has been working with me twice a week. Two and a half pound may not sound like much, but it still feels like a lot of weight while doing my physical therapy leg exercises at this time. Starting next week I will be down to one session a week. I was surprised at my balance on one leg progress. Working on all these exercises daily is really starting to pay off. Oh no, we facetimed and saw that Isaac has a goose egg on his forehead from hitting his head on the school playground. Prayers for healing from his head trauma injury, a possible head concussion isn't to be taken lightly. Thanks be to God for this beautiful day, may there be more to come as spring approaches.
11 March 2025
Thanks be to God for this new day. I finally got a took advantage of a day that I could sleep in and rest my weary body. It was good to yap on the phone with my brother this morning about this and that, mostly about health issues, he went through bypass surgery about two years ago. We went to the House of Emperor to pick up a carryout to bring over to Alex's our noontime meal. We want to spend as much time with him as possible before he moves later this month. It looks like we are on temperaturewise rollercoaster with the temperatures in the mid 50s today. But at least we get to enjoy another bright sunshiny day. It is hard to believe that we will I. The mid 70s by Friday. It was nice to get a wellness call from Emma this afternoon and a wellness call Henry. I am so blessed by so many of our friends and family who are so mindful of me. We enjoyed our time with our son; it is so sad that another one of children is moving out of state. May the Lord bless and keep him and may the Lord face shine on him and give him peace. The verse of the day is, “Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart” (Psalm 37:4). When we delight in the Lord, our hearts will desire only to honor him. Truly the Lord will never forsake us. Anyway, I've got to stop penning and go to bed early because I have another fasting lab work appointment early tomorrow at the 95th Street Edwards Health Center.
10 March 2025
"Satisfy us in the morning with your steadfast love, that we may rejoice and be glad all our days" (Psalm 90:14). Rejoicing in the gift of a new day, it is good to be alive. Albeit I knew that I was going to fast for lab work this morning, I didn't realize that we were getting up early and be out the door to go to Rush Copley at 7:30. I initally thought that I was going to get some extra rest this morning before heading out. Mmm, we split a very tasty croissant sausage and egg breakfast sandwich from Panera before going to the Sam's Club pharmacy. I love being out and about on this string bright sunshiny days with each day being a tad warmer than the day before. The verse of the day is, "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law" (Galatians 5:22-23). May the Holy Spirit guide, teach and transforms our character to become more Christlike.
9 March 2025
Thank you Lord for the gift of this new day. I can hardly wait, springtime is just around the corner and soon wintertime will be behind us. Of course I have to mention how I can't stand how we change the time twice a year. Getting up early two days in a row is actually taxing on this old body that is trying to recover and heal. After breakfast and taking my meds I surprised myself and fell asleep sitting upright and ended up reclaiming a hour sleep. We went to Alex's to sit Nala because he went to meet up with Andrea, Rob, Isaac, Peyton, as well as Sandy, Carl, Zack and Victoria at the Dave and Busters in Schaumburg. It is good to spend time with family especially before moving out of state for work. Personally, I'm not a fan of arcades because they are so noisy. I must have really been cooped up because I really have been really enjoying car rides on bright sunshiny days. It good to see a hint of green on the ground as the grass is moving away from being dormant. Needless to say, I enjoy spending time in Alex's house; I love all the natural light and the open space. I am beginning to wonder if my chest pain will ever go away. Lord, just say the word and I will be healed.
8 March 2025
Good morning sunshine! I am thankful for this new day. A look at the weather app revealed a three day climb temperaturewise. Albeit it is only in the mid 20s at this moment, we expect to be above freezing temperatures the remainder for at least this week anyway. Today's high will was supposed in the mid 40s, but it made it up into the low 50s, tomorrow the mid 50s and the day after the mid 60s! We got up early and was out the door by eight o'clock to pick up the cake from the Jewels before heading out to Alex's. I am so forward to seeing the kids. The gift of family is truly our greatest treasure, God is good. I enjoyed the car ride to Alex's, the sun was shining and the sky was a blue as can be. I made us the usual scrambled eggs and breakfast sausage links and heated up some store brought hom sui gok for our breakfast. Andrea was the one who ended up learning to make the beef chow fun. Clearly she not ready for Chinese stir frying because she is afraid of cooking with a high gas flame to get the needed wok hei. Sweet, after our noontime meal, Rob gave a short light shoulder massage because it isn't clear to us if I should be getting one during my healing and recovery period. After the cake we played with Isaac's birthday gift, a pair of radio control vehicle bumper cars. Albeit there is no doubt about my bias, I think our grand kids are the greatest. When I did my physical therapy exercises today, I spent extra time working on the balance standing one leg exercises. There remains a lot of room for improvement. I got a wellness call from my brother and from Peggy. I am blessed by their concerns and their mindfulness of my wellbeing. We stopped for gas on the way home; it was $3.09 a gallon. I'm still waiting and hoping for it to go under three bucks a gallon. Alex and Andrea gave Peyton a haircut and I think they did a great job because is cute as a button. When we got home, mama gave me a haircut, so happy haircut. Mama asked me rhetorically if I feel better now. Lol, of course I do, there is something about getting a haircut that that make one feel on top of the world. The verse of the day is, "the Lord is good to all, and his mercy is over all that he has made" (Psalm 145:9). Lord help and guild me to live in a way that reflects your goodness and compassion. Thanks be to God, today was a very good day that was filled with joy and countless blessings.
7 March 2025
"Pray that your flight may not be in winter or on a Sabbath" (Matthew 24:20). This verse makes me think of the perilous times in our lives and the harshness of winter. Albeit we woke up to a gloom and doom looking day, waking up is always a good thing. I am most thankful for the gift of life. I was glad that we did not get the predicted overnight snow. We are not out of the woods yet, because the forecast calls for 1 to 2 inches of snow to end at 7 p.m. tonight. So far all we have been getting is a light drizzling rain. As it moved towards the noon hour, the rainfall turned into snowfall. Anyone who knows me knows that I am not a fond of cold or snow. Since we will be celebrating Isaac's birthday early this weekend, we decided we will make his favorite dish, gon chow ngau ho. I only sliced up the sheets of rice noodles and plan to teach Rob how to make the sauce and how to stir fry the noodles. Andrea last week requested that I make her chili, anything for my baby; we had that for our supper today. I am thrilled that albeit did snow today, there wasn't any accumulation. The verse of the day is. "Yet even now," declares the LORD, "return to me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning; and rend your hearts and not your garments." Return to the LORD your God, for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love; and he relents over disaster (Joel 2:12-13). This verse is a good verse for the season of lent. Lord, I am a beggar and come with bent knee and render my heart to you in repentance and acknowledge my brokenness and need your forgiveness and restoration. Since I did a verse of the day, why not do a song of the day, Johnny B. Goode – Chuck Berry. Anyway, I need to get ready for bed because we need to get out the door early tomorrow to pick up the birthday cake we ordered for the birthday celebration. May God keep and bless him always. It is hard to believe that the not so little man is already going to be eight years old this month. Our lives are truly blessed, God is good and his faithfulness and steadfast love endures forever.
6 March 2025
Waking up in the morning is always a good thing, but there is something special about waking up to a bright sunshiny day. Lord, may your light guide my day and you’re your spirit bring me peace. Amen. Mmm, what a great start, mama made a fresh pot oatmeal and even tossed in a small piece of fish fillet in my savory bowl of porridge this morning. We went to my semi-annual primary doctor appointment. It was nice to be out for a car ride in the sunlight. I really am getting pushed hard by my physical therapist, but I think that it is really helping me get stronger and I am also seeing good progress with my balance. Lord, strengthen and heal me. Prayers for all my love ones.
5 March 2025
Albeit I woke up cool dreary day, there was joy in my heart. I am thankful for the gift of life and am fill with anticipation of seeing Alex flying back home some time this morning from Texas. It is hard to believe that he will be moving to Dallas in a couple of weeks. When Alex got back, Nala was super excited, howling and literally leaping for joy. Today is Ash Wednesday and the beginning of Lent; it is time to reflection on our mortality and sinfulness as well as on faith and renewal. The verse of the day is, "By the sweat of your brow you will eat your bread til you return to the ground, for out of it you were taken; for you are dust, and to dust you shall return" (Genesis 3:19). We are reminded of consequences of sin and the mortal nature of humanity is not eternal and that we will eventually die and decompose. Albeit death is a reality for everyone, thanks be to God for Christ, the curse of death will be overcome, and for those who trust in him will have eternal life. We went down to the basement and had Alex replaced the circuit breaker to the microwave, but the new replacement breaker tripped as well. We concluded that the microwave itself was the problem. After viewing a few YouTube videos, we took on the task of taking apart and troubleshooting the electrical circuit. Between mama, Alex and myself we narrowed it down to one of three door switches being stuck. We put everything back together and thanks be to God the microwave is working again! Oh wow, it transitioned from raining to snowing late afternoon. I was surprised but glad that mama ordered a fish and a tofu dish from the House of Emperor, it made for a fine supper.
4 March 2025
Thanks be to God for a peaceful night's rest and for the blessings of this new day. Albeit we will be raining on and off the entire day, I have no complaints, it is good to be alive. Am I seeing things, a week from now we are going to have a day in the 70? Really? I did physical therapy with the physical therapist today, these last two times have been really challenging with the strengthening exercises using two and a half pound ankle weights. Half the session was on strengthening exercises and the other half on balancing exercises. After my physical therapy session, I took short nap. I think that I am tire because I have been going to bed a little later at night. I boiled is ziti to have with mama's pasta sauce for our supper, so good. Nice, we facetimed with the kids, it always bring me great joy whenever we do these this video chat. Anyway, I got to stop penning and relax. The plan is to watch Trump address a joint session of congress later this evening. Prayers for our nation.
3 March 2025
I woke up to a gloom and doom looking day. Days like this use to be so depressing, as you get older you begin to count each new day as a blessing. Well at least the temperature is in not only above freezing, the expected high for the day is in the upper 40s. I know it's only the beginning of March, but I can hardly wait until spring is in the air. The verse of the day is, "Trust in the Lord, and do good; dwell in the land and befriend faithfulness" (Psalm 37:3). Thanks be to God for his faithfulness. Truly we are to trust him and obey his precepts. It's not clear to me why I was tire this afternoon and ended up taking a short nap. I was blessed with two wellness calls, one from my sister and the other was from my brother. Hmm, the circuit breaker to the microwave kept tripping so Fawn went to Menards to buy a new one. It's a good thing that she thought it out and realized that we would need to reset all the electronics in the house and questioned how would we reset and reprogram the refrigerator and the thermostat, guess we will have do without the microwave and wait to swap out the circuit breaker when Alex gets back.
2 March 2025
“This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it” (Psalm 118:24). Rejoicing I am, it is good to be alive. I think the beauty of a new day is that we are renewed each new day; it is an opportunity for us to grow and do better the day before. God is so loving and merciful. I sun is so deceiving today, it is so cold. Hopefully it will warm up during the week. Today was pretty much a quiet and peaceful day and was a opportunity to reflect on how bountiful the Lord has dealt me and my love ones. God has truly showered us with grace upon grace. This journal entry has to be one of my earliest pens because I’m stopping to post and get ready for supper.
1 March 2025
Oh wow, we heard the wind hollowing big time as the temperature plummeted overnight. When we woke up this morning Alex was already on his plane to Texas. It weather was crazy this morning with gray skies and snowing, but within a hour the sun was out. Being so cold is not a good way to start off the month of March. I had mixed feelings about the day, it was sad that Alex flew out to sign a lease live in Dallas for work. That is the second of our three children who moved out of state. There was joy in my heart to Andrea, Rob and our grandkids. I was surprised that I was asked to make breakfast sausage links, our grandkids love eating them. Yummy, mama made her infamous pasta sauce, the house was nice and warm and smelled so good. It was nice to get a shoulder massage for Rob. I never knew how well Isaac can draw; he can draw amazing prehistoric creatures like my brother Bill. I had a great time playing matching mahjong tiles with both our grandkids. It is great how quickly they catch on learning to play new games. I was so glad the spent the entire day with us, often times they leave some time mid afternoon, but today they late and went out and bought dinner from Lucky Panda. Wow, what a feast! Rob bought way too much food. I especially enjoyed the curry tofu, I never ate that before and of course I overindulged. I am grateful for this day and for the gift of family. Being a senior citizen is weird time in life, I just learned that someone that we know is going to have bypass surgery this coming week. Prayers for a good outcome. Lord, heal our infirmities.
28 February 2025
"Satisfy us in the morning with your steadfast love, that we may rejoice and be glad all our days" (Psalm 90:14). Thanks be to God for his steadfast love. I feel so much better in the morning when I go to bed early. I believe that resting plays a crucial role in healing and recovering from my surgery. "Heal me, O Lord, and I shall be healed; save me, and I shall be saved, for you are my praise" (Jeremiah 17:14). There is a lot going on between resting my body at night and doing physical therapy during the day while taking all these different medications throughout the day. What another nice bright sunshiny day! It is my understanding that it will be near 60 degrees by mid afternoon! We stopped at Patio's to pick up some good eats on the way to Alex's for our noontime meal. Today was very much like yesterday, it was peaceful as can be as I was able to freely walk around the house and do my PT exercises. It was a joy to FaceTime. Yes, Isaac got another 10 out of 10 on this week's spelling test again. I can hardly wait until we can spend time with our family tomorrow.
27 February 2025
I lift my heart to you, O Lord, with gratitude. May my heart sing praises to your holy name throughout the day. This morning's oatmeal was pretty tasty; mama put some leftover chicken lettuce wrap in it. What a most beautiful day with blue skies and contrasting white clouds. It was good for me to go out for a drive to Alex's house. His home feels like a vacation home to me because I enjoy all the natural light that comes into his house. His house is more spacious than our home and I can walk. Gas was $3.099 a gallon, now I wondering can Trump can get it under three bucks a gallon at the pump. Mama steamed up some frozen dim sum for our lunch, but the taste of it seemed to be off and it wasn't all that, so disappointing. Being at Alex's gave mama an opportunity to go out and about and relax away from me. I am a blessed to have such a good and selfless wife. Today was a very good and peaceful day.
26 February 2025
Albeit I am still getting up a lot at night to use the washroom, I am getting my needed rest. I did the PT exercises that were required to be done while flat on my back before getting out of bed this morning. Looking out the windows, I see a complete overcast and we expect off and on showers for today and tomorrow. I am thankful for this new day and the gift of life. I think it the old Adam in us that keeps us from rejoicing in fullness of as new day without sunshine. I add a little curry chicken to my oatmeal again. Lol, it reminded me of how a friend described Indian food as looking like red, yellow or green gruel. Instead of doing PT sessions today, I am opting to go through the all the PT exercises a few at a time getting up often throughout the day. I thank God for strengthening and keeping me. It was most joyful facetiming with the kids.
25 February 2025
"Light is sweet, and it is pleasant for the eyes to see the sun" (Ecclesiastes 11:7). Thanks be to God for the gift of life. I woke up a beautiful bright sunshiny day. The temperature was already in the low 40s and is forecasted high temperatures to climb into the mid 50s! Mmm, mama made a fresh pot of oatmeal this morning. Normally I have it with fresh blueberries, but I had it with curry chicken this morning for protein and I finished up breakfast with a little peach yogurt. We got a takeout from the House of Emperor to take to Alex's for our lunch. It was a blessing to be out for a car ride. I love the sunshine and seeing all the snow has melted. Initially I personally thought why spend all that money when you can just get good food from Panda Express, but I take that back, their beef tenderloin black pepper sauce and ther fish fillet with ginger was pretty tasty. We had both the home visiting nurse and the home physical therapist come today. Thanks be to God for the blessings of day. Prayers for a peaceful night's rest.
24 February 2025
Thanks be to God for the gift our new day. We got up super early and had oatmeal for breakfast and was out the door for our 9:30 appointment by 5:30. Yes it is worth leaving that early to avoid the sun in your eyes driving during the morning rush into the city. The RUSH University Medical Center is so huge because of all joining buildings. It requires a lot of walking to get around. I got in a PT session before my appointment. May the Lord continue to strengthen and restore my health. Thanks be to God that everything is appearing to be healing just fine. I am Fawn was by side or else it would have been overwhelming to go over all my new meds. We were out of the hospital by the noon hour and was thrilled that traffic back was moving at the speed limit. I had curry chicken with Cantonese pan fried noodles for lunch and then took an afternoon siesta. I got in my second PT session late afternoon. Mama made us one signature salads for supper. It’s not clear how healthy it is to be eating salads often, but it tastes so good. I think that I’ll do a few of my PT exercises before calling it a day. I am grateful for blessing of the day, God is good.
23 February 2025
Glory to God, the Lord is good! I couldn't have asked for a more homecoming than yesterday. Albeit I continued to wake up frequently at night because of the diuretics, I still managed to fall back asleep and get in good night's rest. We got up super early this morning to try to make a shift, because we will need to get up super early tomorrow morning to drive in the city to avoid the morning rush for post-op visit and a hospital follow-up appointment at the RUSH University Medical Center. I did two short PT sessions this morning and it worked out very well for me. Albeit I was indoors the entire day, it was good to see that the temperature was above freezing and the snow began melting. I thank God for the milder weather. I am so looking forward to the start of spring. The initial plan was to do two PT sessions this afternoon, but I ended up do three short ones instead. I thank God that I am able do continue to get stronger and build up more endurance. I feel bad that Fawn is doing everything around the house on top of caring for me. Mmm, mama made us really nice iceberg garden salad with strawberries, blueberries, grapes and hardboiled eggs. My second day at home was just as much of much of a blessing as yesterday. I am man in his element rejoicing in all of God’s gifts. May the Lord bless and keep us, may his face shine on us and give us peace. Anyway, off to bed super early.
22 February 2025
I woke up this morning with joy in my heart, thanking God for his steadfast love. Albeit today is still a breezy and chilly day, apparently it much better and less brutal than the past week. My morning joy was filled with the prospect of getting things together to finally go home. I am so thankful for Fawn helping me with the hospital rehab discharge which would have been overwhelming going over all my new medications. The kids asked if they could come down and welcome me home, albeit would be a great joy, I thought it would be best to slowly settle in. Being out in the sunshine on the ride home was really nice and had me reminiscing about when we were young and cruising in a car. The first thing we did was took a hot shower and that went really well. Mmm, there was Chinese carryout food refrigerator, so had a little of this and little of that. It is good to be back to eating four smaller meals a day than eating three larger ones. I did my first PT session at 2:30. After supper, I decided to login here and do a cut and paste of all my journal entries from my phone as well as post as my stream of consciousness thoughts for today. I can't speak well enough care that I have received for my heart issue from bypass surgery to this point in my rehabilitation, truly God has always and continues to bountifully deal with by entire being. I did my second at 6:30 and think it would good to see it three PT a day would be a good fit for me for the time being starting tomorrow. I'm not sure what I will be doing for the remainder of the evening other than to kick back and relax. Now that’s what I’m talk about, I’ll need pause from penning this journal entry, Andrea just initiated a FaceTime call… now my day is complete. It is always a joy to video chat with Andrea, Rob, Isaac and Peyton. I am grateful for all the blessings of the day. Homecoming is every bit as wonderful as I imaged it would be. I am amazed that I had my chest split open to make repairs on my heart and I am still alive. God showers me with grace upon grace.
27 January – 21 February 2025
1/27
"The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness" (Lamentations 3:22-23). I am thankful for this new day for God's mercies and faithfulness. Bless the Lord, O my soul. I look at today's forecast and saw that it was a mere 16 °F and will soar into the low 40s. Our Midwest temperature swings on a given day are incredible. Sunny days and days those with above freezing temperatures are especially welcomed during the winter months. I have been penning my journal entries on my phone throughout the day and copy and pasting to Blogger at the end of day for some time, I will not be able to do that tonight because I am scheduled to check in to the Rush Medical Center today for bypass surgery tomorrow and the am expected to stay in hospital six to eight days. God willing, I will continue pen my journal entries beyond tomorrow and will be offering prayers of thanksgiving. My trust is in the Lord and his good plans for me. I was surprised that I haven't received a call for a check-in time this morning yet, so I gave the hospital a call and they said to just continue waiting for a call from them. I made us a spinach mushroom and egg omelet for lunch. Thanks be to God, I learned on the news the the rain doused the LA county wildfire! I suspect that is will be a daunting task to clean up and rebuild. Joy, I learned that niece is carrying their second child! The hospital finally called around 4 o'clock to let us know to come in for admittance. We drove to Alex's and he then drove us into the city. The drive in was nowhere as long as we expected even with the heavy congestion from the airport and beyond, city traffic is so horrendous. The hospital admitted me for a overnight stay and my bypass surgery is scheduled for tomorrow at 7:15 a.m. had a view of the United Center and saw the large crowd exiting from the Bulls game. It's no wonder why I was admitted the night before my surgery, there were a ton of questions and a boat load of tests and constant monitoring. It is hard to believe that I will be having a major surgery that will open up my chest to perform heart bypass surgery. I am blessed and am comforted by the well wishes and intercessory prayers on my behalf. I am thankful for the hospitality of my hospital caregivers. A doctor from the cardiology department came by shortly after midnight with the results of the lab work and said that there was nothing prohibiting the surgery set for tomorrow morning. Prayers for safe travel for Alex and Fawn; for God's blessings for all the hospital medical team; for peaceful rest; for a good surgical outcome. My life has been truly bless for the Lord has dealt bountifully with me. My trust is in the Lord, may his will be done. Fawn, know that you are the love of my life. I love you more than anything. I am so blessed that has gifted me with good wife. I am thinking of you and my children, convey my love to Andrea, Rob, Isaac, Peyton, Alex, Jennifer and RJ. I am at peace under God's wings.
1/28
Thanks be to God for this new day. Albeit I was waken up for one thing or another every couple hours throughout the night, I still was able to immediately fall back asleep each time and feel well rested. The last time I was waken was around 5:15 a.m. Since I was expecting a customary visit from one of the assisting surgeons prior to the surgery at 6:15, I decided to pray and meditate on God’s word in the quite. "He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the LORD, “My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust" (Psalm 91:1-2). Lord, with me abide.
2/2
Today is the first day I am getting to pen a journal entry. Thank be to God l am alive. The recovery is taking longer to than I like. I am still un the ICU struggling with the breathing exercises and eating. Intercessory prayers for healing and recovery. It was nice of Rob, Andrea, Isaac, Peyton, Alex and Fawn to come visit me yesterday.
2/3
"But the centurion replied, “Lord, I am not worthy to have you come under my roof, but only say the word, and my servant will be healed" (Matthew 8:8). God is my strength, Lord say the word and I will be healed. Bill drove Fawn down again into the city, it is good to have such a mindful brother that is always so mindful of me and my children. Last night because of all my pain, I mused about death and dying. "Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever" (Psalm 23:6). The Lord is my hope and my salvation.
2/4
Thanks be to God for this new day. I think my problem has not been eating. The food tastes terrible with all the medicine I have been taking. I am going to make it a point to just eat the food regardless of the taste to get stronger and really work hard on the breathing exercises. Today is a cold day sit near the windows, but I welcome the sunlight. Breakfast was scrambled eggs and pancakes. Albeit tasted so gross, I forced one egg and one pancake down. Lunch was a barbecue chicken sandwich. I managed to down about a third of the sandwich. I went for four walks today. I'm still struggling with my breathing exercises, albeit I'm not doing as well as I would like, I still have to continue with the process.
2/5
Glory to God in the highest! I think it is interesting that the hospital has been trying to get into rehab. I guess there isn't enough rooms and have kept me in the ICU. Today was the first day I ordered my own food instead of having the daily specials. I'm all fired up and intend to do more walking today and increasing my breathing exercises. I am grateful for the gift of family, but I am especially grateful for my good wife and brother. Last night was blessing to praise God singing sacred music. Dang it's cold sitting by the window today, I can hear the wind hollowing big time, but the big talk of the day is the ice winter storm that is heading our way for early evening. Eww, the food has a gross aftertaste, I can't believe that I force down a little bit more than yesterday with the scrambled eggs and pancakes. Clearly I didn't know what a Mediterranean salad was, it is by far their nastiest dish I had here so far. Albeit still horrible, at least I was able to force down half the chicken pot pie for supper. I thought for sure that it would have tasted a lot better. I thought that it was interesting that they took me for a walk three times today, but doubled the distance. Bless the Lord my soul. I sang sacred music again today, I am surprised that I don't that every night before going to bed. Albeit I missed the love of my life today, it is far better to be safe than be sorry.
2/6
It is good to be alive, less the Lord who saves me. The staff normally wakes me and sits me upright in a chair at 5:30 a.m. this morning I woke up on my own at 4:15 parched and needed to drink some hot water. It's an awful gloom and doom looking day with very little sunlight. I was able to eat about two-thirds of my scrambled eggs and pancakes this morning by masking the taste with ketchup and hot sauce. I'm hearing from everyone including Fawn that it is like an ice skating rink. The physical therapy took me a a disappointing short walk and was forced on personal hygiene. My second walk of the day went much better. I'm trying my best to improve on breathing exercises with little to no progress, so got in my third walk in by the noon hour. Sigh, here I was thinking that I should be eating more only to learn that my numbers are high and was preventing my physical therapy transfer. I went for my fourth walk at 5 p.m. and hope get one more walk in after supper. It is hard to not think about death and dying when your chest has been opened up for bypass surgery. Thanks be to God who promises to stay by my side. I are about a third of my sliced roasted turkey with gravy mashed and green beans for dinner while listening to sacred music on Lutheran Public Radio!
2/8
"This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it" (Psalm 118:24). Yesterday was a bad day for me; I was super tire all day long and only got two short walks and slept in bed most to the time. Today was just the opposite; I felt pretty good and got my first full walk in at 10:15. They finally moved me from the ICU, to the 12th floor. By the time I got my lunch it was almost three o'clock, so I didn't get to my get in my second walk for the day until 4 p.m. What is up with this freezing rain and howling wind? I love the video technology, it was the first time I used FaceTime on Facebook and thought it was excellent getting all my family together. When we were young with children, I couldn't imagine a greater joy, but God continues blessed with us grandchildren! Sweet I got had my sutures removed at 4:45 I thought that they either forgot about me or they changed their mind. I swear the food is terrible and the only thing editable are the desserts. I was listening to LPR playing sacred music again this evening, it is truly a blessing to praise God in the form of liturgical music. I cleaned up at 8:30 before going on my last walk and to early bed. The breathing exercises are tough, they tend to make me cough which brings about some chest pain. Thanks be to God for his steadfast love his mercies on this poor miserable sinner are remarkable. Our Lord showers us grace upon grace. Lord teach me your precepts at the dawn of each new day, be with me.
2/9
I woke up to the dawn of a beautiful bright sunshiny day. I was surprised that there was ice and snow on the roadways. I ate oatmeal this morning and think that food that bland food is better than eating food tastes terrible. I watched Sunday Mass from Holy Name Cathedral. It it isn't one thing it is is another. I'm just getting over an infection and now I just learned that I'm taking on fluid around my lungs. “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-17). I got in my first walk at 11:15 I had to force my pasta marinara and only managed to finish half of it. It was a blessing to FaceTime with the the family. My second walk didn't come about until 5 o'clock. I opted to enjoy listening to sacred music on lpr instead of the watching the super bowl. I got up to take my third a final walk before cleaning up and going to bed. Thanks be God and rejoicing in the blessings go the day.
2/10
I woke up rejoicing in the gift of life, thanks be to God. I'm not much on having visitors, but I am excited knowing that my wife and brother will be visiting. I worked with physical therapy this morning and we did my walk without the walker. I felt that I was a little wobbly had difficulty standing upright while walking. It was nice to get in my second and third walk at 11:15 and at 2 o'clock with the nurses. I couldn't believe that he doctors performed a procedure to drain the fluid surrounding my left lung. I was stunned when they told me they drew out one and a half liters. I procedure was so painful.
2/11
I woke up nausea this morning and after a couple spoonfuls of oatmeal, I began vomiting big time. I ended up going back to bed and stayed there for the remainder of the day seeking God’s protection.
2/12
I woke this grateful for the blessings of a new day. I had oatmeal, wheat toast and fresh fruit. I was surprised that everything tasted just fine and was able to finally finish most of my breakfast. Clearly today was going to be a better day, but perhaps not weatherwise with this winter storm bringing us 3 - 6 inches of snow. It is going to be a nightmare for folks needing to use the roadways. The verse of the day is, "We love because he first loved us" (1 John 4:19). Help me, O Lord to remember your great love for me when I am led to doubt your grace or wonder about my worthiness. May your love to be reflected in my daily life. Thank you for loving me so completely. Christ first! I finished my mini Italian beef. It was a far cry from a Portillo's but at least it was edible. Lol, it's so weird eating it green beans on a plate instead of with french fries and onion rings. I have this "cough bear" that was given to in the ICU that has been by side since the get go. Everyone here think I should give it a name, so I've assigned that task to Isaac and Peyton. Lol, Peyton named it Mr. Banana. Dinner was nasty, the chicken pot pie was nastier then when I tasted last week I had two highlights of the day, first praising God by continuing to sing, Te Deum, until I memorized the ancient song by heat. The other was facetiming with the kids
2/13
O Gladsome Light, I thank thee Lord for this new day. I woke up to the howling wind and the the busyness of the roadway. I looked at the 10 day forecast and all I saw a string of snow filled days with subzero temperatures of the weather app. I am not a city person, so I am not impressed by any city skyline when I look out the window, but I am loving all the sunlight. A busy day is scheduled ahead for me. I am praying that my lungs are good enough that the tube can be removed and that I begin my physical rehabilitation. Lord, help save and comfort me. I called Fawn and feel bad that she out shoveling the snow. Happy, happy, happy, the drain tube and all my staples were removed at 8:30! Glory to God in the highest. Unbelievable, I finished my entire breakfast oatmeal wheat toast, fruit cup and hot tea. I was thrilled that I got my first walk in for the day at 9:30 and was allowed to wall in the hallways alone as long as I was in full view of a nurse's station. I had a hamburger for lunch that albeit tasted like it came out of a vending machine, I ate the entire burger, that just tells you how bad the food is. I'm doing my best to keep up with my breathing exercises with the aid of an incentive spirometer. I got in my second walk of the day at 12:45 and I feeling pretty good, I'm pretty sure the hospital will be transporting for rehab at their Aurora facility tomorrow afternoon. I met with physical therapy and we went on my third walk at 2:30 and my fourth at 4 o'clock. I got in my 5th walk at 6:15. I had a mixed Caesar salad with chicken. I cleaned up at 8 o'clock and then called it a day. Thanks be to God for the blessings of the day.
2/14
Happy Valentine's Day! "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life" (John 3:16). I am so thankful that Lord is blessings me with the gift of another new day. The Lord has truly blessed me Proverbs 31 treasure. 8 ugly It is hard to believe that I have been in this hospital for 16 days already. Albeit I didn't order much for breakfast, I did my entire breakfast. Calling it delicious or even remotely good would be a stretch, but surprisingly the scrambled eggs, wheat toast and chicken sausage didn't have the nasty taste I have been experiencing. I just looked at the weather app and it is forecasting 4 to 8 inches of snow for this weekend and five day string of subzero temperatures during the week. I took my morning walk and feel that I am stronger and steadier than I have been post surgery. Whoo hoo, I got the news that I will be transported to the Rush Copley facility in Aurora for my rehab. It feels weird to be back wearing everyday clothes. I was in the Aurora facility by 3:30 and was greeted there by Fawn and Bill. I was thrilled that the room was warm and without all the noise from the busyness of the city. Things are certainly looking up, the fish and roasted potatoes was much better than the I have been eating. I rehab begin tomorrow and I pray for strength to go strong enough to go home and on with life. My expected stay here is 7 to 10 days. Praise God, his steadfast love endures forever. It is the will of God in Jesus that we rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks is all circumstances. Clearly, I am not best of circumstances health wise, but I rejoice in this time that allows me to listen to sacred music and grow spiritually and pray more. I thank God how well staffed that facility is.
2/15
Thanks be to God for the peaceful night's rest and for the gift of this day. My schedule for the day written on a board at the start of the day. I will have a OT evaluation from 10:30 to 12:00 and a PT evaluation from 1:00 to 2:30. I sat up for breakfast which came at 8:15. I had a biscuit with sausage gravy that was pretty good with a cup of coffee. It was nice to be sitting upright and lounge comfortably in the chair with the wearable blanket that Rob and Andrea got me for Christmas. I met with Dr Keane at 9 o'clock who will be overseeing by rehabilitation. I liked my OT session, I hand washed myself, brush my teeth and did cleaned myself after using the washroom. It was good to get up and walk to the gym and I met the PT before heading back to my room for lunch. I had the chicken quesadilla that was pretty good. Judging from dinner last night along with the breakfast and lunch today, I say the food is pretty good considering how healthy it is being cooked. There was a lot going in PT and I got good glimpse of road to doing things independently. The biggest thing I saw was balance, getting in and out of bed, and going up and down steps. Sundays are quite days so the plan is to have nurses take me on a walk three times tomorrow. It sounds like there will be two OT sessions and two PT sessions each day starting on Monday. Facetiming with the kids was awesome, there is a chance they will visiting this old man tomorrow. I ate up all my linguine with meatballs, so there is no doubt in my mind the food in this facility is much better. This president appears to very active, Lord grant him wisdom. Guide him that we may live quite and peaceful live. I got a nice walk in and am now preparing to call it a day. Prayers for all my love ones, for health and healing, a for a peaceful night's rest.
2/16
It was good thing that I went to bed early because I got up five times to use the bathroom. Today was the latest I got out of bed. Thanks be to God for this new day and for his gifts. I was surprised that the scrambled eggs, hash browns, turkey sausage and wheat toast was only so-so. I didn't have much of an appetite and only ended up eating half the food. After breakfast, I was thrilled to finally get my first shower since being my surgery. I think that doing my rehab being cared for in a hospital like atmosphere is wonderful. I can't say enough good things about the staff and this facility. I went for a nice at 11 o'clock and hope to get in three walks today. I watched Sunday Mass from Holy Name Cathedral. It was a joy to talk with Fawn and Jennifer on the phone. It is strange to have living so far away and it will strange when Alex will move out state in about a month. I ate a tasty flatbread with mushrooms, peppers and onions for lunch, but think that wasn't the best choice for my noontime meal. I had joyous afternoon, Andrea, Rob, Fawn, Alex and our grandkids! God is good. I went for my second of the day at 3:30. Carl dropped by for visit at four o'clock but left at five when my supper came. It was so kind and mindful him to visit. I wasn't able to finish the second chicken taco. They were OK but a far cry from the tacos I am accustom to eating. I went for my third and final walk at 7:30 before getting ready for bed. I am glad getting back to normal with my bowel movements. Today was a very good day that was filled with countless blessings. Prayers for God's presence and safe keeping in my home while I am way. May his holy angels guard over all my love ones.
2/17
Christ first! I woke up thanking God for this new day. Ĺast night was pretty much like the night getting up often to urinate. I was happy to be regular this morning. Albeit I feel stronger and slightly better with each pasting day, I wonder if I can get to a place where I was before my surgery. It was -1 °F I woke up this morning and the forecast is for subzero temperatures during the week. The deep freeze that we have been in that will continue to be in until next week is insane. Everything seems to me on a schedule at this rehab facility. I am waken up around 7:15, my meals are at 8 12 and 5 o'clock. I have a OT and PT sessions in morning as well as both in the afternoon. I finished my oatmeal wheat toast and yogurt and thought that this morning's breakfast is more to what I have at home. I thought that my morning OT session when well and that I was able to hand wash and dress for the fairly readily. I possibly ate the worst fish sandwich ever, talk about dry. My OT and PT for the day was focused on balance, flexibility and building up endurance. I feel that my day in rehab was very beneficial. I watched episode 11 of NCIS: Origin. It is amazing how many different NCIS series there are and how successful they are. I ate meatloaf for dinner and it was just OK. I was hoping to get a walk early before going to bed, but that didn't happen. I went for a walk at 8:15. I listened sacred music on LPR while in bed. It is crazy how early I need to call it a day because between the diuretics that causes me to get up frequent at night and getting woken up for this and that in order to get an adequate amount of slept I thank God for the blessings of the day, his steadfast love endures forever. May the Lord grant his holy angels to watch over me and all my love ones and for a peaceful night's rest.
2/18
God is good. Thanks be to God for a good night's rest. I slept all the way until 8 o'clock when breakfast came. The outside temperature was up to -5 °F by then. I woke up thankful for this bright new sunshiny day. I feel pretty good and stronger with the pasting of each new day as I petition daily for our Lord’s strength and for wisdom. I had an egg omelet for breakfast and only managed to finish about two-thirds of it because it was quite huge. For a healthy omelet, it was pretty good. We get new schedule for the day every morning, the two OT and PT times are not at a daily fixed time. I was surprised to see a recreational therapy session added to the schedule for the day. I took a nice hot shower during my morning OT session. Sweet, I thought that PT was very productive and able to get a pretty good ten minute workout using a seated elliptical machine to wrap up my morning session. I ate a plain hamburger along with a tomato soup. Naturally a healthy hamburger is anything but a juicy one. Albeit I am still learning as well as doing beneficial things during my therapy session, I think I rather be home. I got in my first walk of the day at 4 o'clock. It was a nice long one at that. I am looking forward to doing gradually doing more walking once I am back home. When we got back to my room, I relaxed with a nice cup of hot water and watched NCIS: Origins episode 12. I had the Chef's salad for dinner. I don't think that there is a way to mess that up. I'm clueless to why someone would make a salad so huge. I went for my second walk at 6:30 and then hopped into bed to relax and listen to sacred music on LPR. Praise God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit who fills and complete me.
2/19
I woke up to cloudy and bitterly cold day. I've been indoors this entire time so I don't know if I could differentiate 4 °F to a subzero temperature. Praise the Lord, his steadfast love endures forever. I thank God that I am alive and feel like I am continuing to get stronger day by by. I was surprised to therapy sessions starting at 8:45 this morning. That's fine with me, the only thing I like would that the OT and PT sessions weren't always back to back. Whoo hoo, I got a release date to go home on Saturday! My OT session was focused on coordination as well going over a home safety check list doing things at home, while PT was giving a focused on building up my strength and endurance. I didn't come to finishing my roasted turkey with gravy with mashed potatoes and green bean sides, the portions were huge. My afternoon OT session was very good, we simulated my home environment. Be it stepping in and out of a tub shower or going things in the kitchen. It was very kind and mindful of Albert and Helen to bless me with a hospital visit. I got in a nice walk before doing a dinner and a movie. I had the Asian stir fry with beef over rice and watched NCIS: Origins episode 13, now I'm all catch up. I thought the meal OK, but I doubt it was stir fried, it was more like a stew. We had a joyous family call on FaceTime. I is not that often when I am blessed to be on with all my children and grandchildren, God is good. PT pushed me pretty hard today, so I decided to call it a day super early and rest in bed instead of going for another walk. Prayers for all my love ones that our Lord will come their rescue and meet our needs. Prayers for a peaceful night's rest.
2/20
Thanks be to God for the gift of this new day. I am by nature sinful and unclean, renew me, O Lord. I looked at the weather app and it looks like we will remain in the deep freeze for several more days. Today OT and PT schedule looks the same as yesterday for me. Fawn has a family Ed meeting this afternoon, I'm thinking it has to do with caring for me at home once I am released. It is exciting times preparing to go back home. I took a hot shower during OT this morning and worked on balancing activities. They really pushed me big time this morning during PT because my cardio restrictions were lifted. Our Family Ed session with OT, PT, nurse and social worker this afternoon was very good and informative. I thank God for my wife who is so mindful of so many things big and small. I got in a nice walk before diving into a plate of linguine with meatballs again dinner and managed to a big dent in it, I probably ate more of it than I should have. I went for my second walk before hopping into bed early. It was a opportunity to meditate and sing praises to the Lord and reflect on his goodness. The liturgical season of Lent is approaching. Lent is about repentance, humility, asking for forgiveness and forgiving others, being merciful, and being content in our life with Christ. In my mind, we should never ceases examining ourselves as to if we have somehow sinned in thought, words or deeds. Truly his steadfast love endures forever. The highlight of the day was seeing and spending time with my darling wife, she is truly a Proverbs 31 treasure. Intercessory prayers for all my love ones.
2/21
Praise God, Christ first! O let us rejoice in the new day the Lord has made. It is hard to believe that we are still in a deep freeze and waking up to single digit temperatures. I was happy that Fawn came to visit me early and joined my early morning therapy sessions. I was given a PT discharge evaluation that was the same as the one given to me on day one of rehab and my assessment score was leaps and bounds better. It was interesting when Fawn asked me if there was anything in particular that I wanted to eat when I got home tomorrow because I had nothing in particular that I had a taste for. I have eating food that was either just bland or outright nasty just for nourishment. Albeit my afternoon therapy were are short, I still was find them very beneficial. The sessions were both focused on balance. The OT was in the kitchen area picking up cones inside appliances and cabinets while PT I was doing various standing and moving about leg exercises. My brother blessed me with a hospital and my heart was filled with joy. I haven't watched a western for a very long time, so I turned to YouTube and found, Apache Rifles, starring Audie Murphy. Now that's what I'm talking about, I am so proud of my grandson getting a perfect score this week in school. I thank God who watches over me and all my love ones.
26 January 2025
"Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name!" (Psalm 103:1). Truly, we are renewed each and every new day through Christ our Lord. Christ first! Albeit is cooler today than we are expecting it to be in the low 40s tomorrow and beyond into the month of February! Mama was ready for the NFL AFC and NCF championship games and brought an extra large Domino's pizza for game food. Of course I ate too much and dosed off early in the first quarter. The next thing I knew, it was the start of the third quarter. I had no idea who was the better team going into the game, but that became very obvious during the Eagles 55 - 23 blowout dominance over the Commanders. I finished off the last of the fuzzy melon soup and had a garden salad for my dinner. Fawn when on to watch the Chiefs Bills game without me, for some reason I can't get into watching pro football. The day is almost over, Lord, with me abide.
25 January 2025
"Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I entrust my life" (Psalm 143:8). Thanks be to God for this new day. Steer my thoughts and deeds, O Lord, that I may walk upright in your precepts. I made us a fresh pot of oatmeal and love how the morning sunlight is shining in while enjoying breakfast. It is my understanding that sunlight increases the production of serotonin in the brain which is helps a person feel calm and focused. I am feeling so blessed by all the support of family and friends, their intercessory prayers on my behalf are most appreciated. Mmm, I made chicken and barbecue pork fried rice for lunch. We had a bid melt as climbed up into the upper 30s. It was quite a breezy day. Since we stayed indoors, I hopped on the elliptical twice to get some exercise. I made us beef with broccoli for dinner and had a bowl of soup to go along with it; that bought back many fond childhood memories were my mom would always make soup to go along with just about every meal. Happy haircut! Fawn always does a great job cutting my hair; I'm surprised I don't ask her to cut it for me more often because I always feel great after getting a haircut. My trust is in the Lord, for he is good, his steadfast love endures forever.
24 January 2025
I woke up grateful to a bright sunshiny day and for the gift of life. I was surprised that we were once again in subzero temperatures because I did see that in the ten day forecast. It is not clear to me how we will get to the expected above freezing temperatures by tomorrow afternoon. How can I not be thankful for the the peaceful night's rest, God's blessings are abundant. Instead of just hiding in the house from the cold, we went out and about and met up with Peggy at the Naperville Fresh Market, she made and gifted us with some char sui that she made. Her kindness, well wishes and prayers or most welcomed. Of course, I was all bundled and just sat in the car enjoying the fresh air and sunlight. It is amazing how we are able to do that when we are properly dressed. There was hope of containing the wildfire in southern California only to have new fire breakout. Clearly, containment of multiple wildfires will prove to be even more challenging to put out. We made a nice big delicious pot of fuzzy melon soup which humidified and warmed up our home quite nicely. We added wontons and slices of char sui as soup toppings, so hearty and good. Albeit pales to God’s word, indeed soup is good for soul in a very different way. The verse of the day is, "And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit" (2 Corinthians 3:18). Wow, what a amazing and baffling truth of our journey back to Eden in our every day Christian life as we behold the glory of God and are transformed into his image with the help of the Holy Spirit. As we journey through life and are also bound to the changes that comes with aging. Prayers for my friend and family as we seek our Lord’s wisdom and guidance in making the right choices for our health and for strength and endurance to face the difficulties that come with aging with courage and grace.
23 January 2025
I woke grateful for the blessings of a new day, bless the Lord my soul. We got about an inch of overnight snow and our days remains breezy and cold. We are still a couple day away from seeing above freezing temperatures. I am thankful that I didn't have to rush out early to shovel the snow on my sidewalk before the kids had to trek to school because my neighbor blessed me with needed. I tended to snow on the driveway and am thankful that the accumulated snow was only fluff and was able to very quickly getrdun. After lunch, I layered up big time because we went out and about on the way to Alex's. I just sat in the car while Fawn went in a few if the store because I wanted to avoid people and not get sick. I enjoyed the fresh air and being out in the sunlight. Thanks be to God for warm clothing. I didn’t feel like cooking supper so we stopped at the Jewels for their deli fried chicken. I think that their fried chicken pretty much like the franchise fried chicken joints, because they all fried them ahead of time and toss them under a light. It isn’t like the good old days where fried chicken is fried fresh to order. I am grateful for the blessing of the day.
22 January 2025
I was stunned at what time I woke up this morning but it was all relative because I foolishly stayed up late last night for no particular reason. It's not good to put my sleeping habits all out of whack like that. There was a light dusting of snow on the ground and on the rooftops. As cold as it continues to be, I was surprised to see that the forecast is calling the temperatures to be above freezing by this weekend. I made us beef and peapods and did a lunch and movie binge watching NCIS Origins episodes 9 and 10! I really enjoy watching this television series. I thought the dish came out pretty good, but I think I like the taste of shrimp and pea pods more. I had a relaxing afternoon listening to classical music playing in the background. The verse of the day is, "Let them thank the LORD for his steadfast love, for his wondrous works to the children of man!" (Psalm 107:8). This has been a strange week for me and a lot has on my mind. Strange as it has been, there was much rejoicing for the Lord has dealt bountifully with me my entire life. Mmm, I easily myself a nice garden salad add included cantaloupe, pineapple and strawberries mama had all cut up for my dinner. I would have stayed indoors all day if it wasn’t for the need to roll out the trash and recycle bids curbside and to get the mail, so cold. Sweet, we facetimed with the kids and our grands, my day is complete, God.
21 January 2025
Yes I woke up and had to take a peek to see what our outdoor temperature was, -8 °F. How can I not be thankful for a warm home on a cold winter day? Outside the threat of snow, I have to believe that we will be moving on beyond winter's worst. I praise God and rejoice in his gift of every new day. Our Lord showers us with grace upon grace. The Fighting Irish defense was no match for the Buckeyes, they finally showed up to play during the 4th quarter in the Natty. The final score was OSU 34 ND 23. I had to remind myself that it's only a game. Imagine that, we are so blessed that the loss of college football game would be occupying one's mind in a broken world. I watched NCIS Origins episode eight, two more episode and I will be all caught up. I went to whitehouse.gov a saw there was avalanche of executive orders under "presidential actions" many which are recession of Biden’s executive orders. I think between all of Joe Biden's and Donald Trump's executive orders, pardons and preemptive pardon, and commutations, it's enough to turn one's head. Prayers for the future of our nation.
20 January 2025
I was interested in how cold it was early this morning and it was -2 °F when I woke up. In my mind, the only thing good about waking up to subzero temperatures is the blessings of waking up to our Lord’s care, his steadfast love endures forever. We watched the inauguration of Donald Trump as the 47th president of the United States. It did not come as a surprise that his inaugural speech outlined a robust national agenda, but it was interesting that he doesn't hold back anything and said what is on his mind. A large portion of his is inauguration speech sounded very much like criticism of the 46th president his administration. Clearly he will be building his legacy on the frustration of the American people over the past four years. May our nation yield to God and follow his will. Lord, empower this president and vice president with wisdom to serve in a manner that is pleasing to you. Hmm, the California wildfire started close to two weeks ago and it it only 50 percent contained, that is pretty sad. Mmm, mama made us a really nice salad/fruit platter for our lunch. I never realized that this president has so much energy and can go on and on making one long speech after another. Today is Martin Luther King Day. Dr. King was an American Baptist minister, activist, and political philosopher who was one of the most prominent leaders in the civil rights movement from 1955 until his assassination in 1968. Saint Augustine once wrote, “... that which is not just seems to be no law at all.” Time to put away the pen and prepare some game food, wrap myself up and get cozy in my wearable blanket to cheer on the Fighting Irish!
19 January 2025
We stayed up way past our normal bedtime last night, so I woke up much later than usual. It is so nice not to routinely wake up to the sound of an alarm clock and waking up to the blessings of God’s peace. I just had to look at the weather app while in bed because I knew the cold was set to move in. It was 3 °F and the hourly forecast called for the temperatures remain in the single digits. Albeit not ideal, we watched Sunday Mass from Holy Name Cathedral. Sadly, the service broadcast interrupted with a live presidential broadcast briefing by Biden struggling to read coherently off a teleprompter about the release of the first three hostages that were abducted by Hamas. It is my understanding that first ceasefire deal phase allows the slow release of 33 hostages over a 42 day period. This is followed by addition ceasefire periods were the remaining hostages are to be released. I think both President Biden and President-elect Trump should be given credit for given for this ceasefire deal in Gaza, but have to believe the incoming administration played a pivotal role in moving the negotiations between Israel and Hama along. I mused a little about the possibilities of huge changes that are likely to come about with the incoming of Donald Trump as a second term president. Albeit I am not thrilled with him as the POTUS, I am happy to see Biden and his administration longer governing our nation. I have heard it ridiculously said that if you're not rooting for a president to succeed that you are rooting against the country. I can without reservations say the many of Biden and his administration were unacceptable and way beyond the pale. I am sure there will be policies that Trump will move toward that I will not be thrilled with either, my prayer are for leaders who will govern with honor, wisdom, and moral courage. I did a lunch and a movie watching episode 7 of NCIS Origins and enjoying a taco. I had a conversation with my son the other about this TV series and we both agree that this show is pretty good and apparently I don't what binge watching is when I told him that binge watch two or three episodes of various movies every now or then. We were sadden to learn that one of our neighbors down the street is terminally ill and the end is nigh. Prayers for God’s comforting and reassuring presence. Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live" (John 11:25).
18 January 2025
"And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O Lord, have not forsaken those who seek you" (Psalm 9:10). The Lord is out stronghold. Thanks be to God, I woke up to the blessings of another new day. I stir fried the two packages of pork ribs to make ribs with black bean and garlic sauce and divved it up three ways. But I wasn't done with cooking for the kids, I used two packages of rice noodles and made gon chow ngau ho and divvied that up three ways too. It was definitely a pure canto comfort food eating day. There is a lot of work that goes into preparing Cantonese cuisine. Mama and I make for a awesome kitchen team. I have been truly blessed, what a wonderful life. After lunch we when out and about shopping for fresh fruit and vegetables and to drop off Alex's portion of the good eats. Rat's we forgot the Alex preferred the more common steamed dim sum style ribs. I'm pretty sure we will be hiding indoors sheltering from the expected deep subzero freeze that is heading our way. Initially I was going to walk but I I didn't like being in the crowded store so I headed back out and sat in the car. It was Stanger to see so many road warriors out and about on the roadway. We saw a bunch of weavers and spazzes driving on the roadways with total disregard for the rules to road. The only thing good about being out and about was being able to take in the sunshine. It was really noticeable how the wind was picking up and how the temperature was rapidly dropping while we were out. Thanks be to God for warm clothing. Rob and Andrea stopped by to pick up the food that we made since they came down to Sandy's birthday party. We opted not to go because I wanted to do my best to not come down with anything before my upcoming surgery. I was kicked back and watched the nfl divisional round games between the Chiefs vs Texans as well as the Lions vs Commanders. I was all cozy wearing my wearable blanket. I was surprised that I didn't fall asleep during either of the games. I didn't root for any of the teams over the other and just wanted to get a feel for the teams. I hear a lot of debate over about college football vs the NFL. For me, I find college football more exciting. Anyway, it's been a long day and way past my bedtime. May the Lord bless us and keep us, may his face on us and give us peace.
17 January 2025
Thanks be to God for the blessings of this new day. The word zip-a-dee-doo-dah comes to mind while we were out and about in the Oswego area. It is very telling how cold it has been this winter when I can think of a bright sunny 45 degree day as a nice winter day. We stopped for gas and it was $3.099 a gallon and then we went to Sparkles for a car wash. It now cost $7 for the basic car wash. I was actually surprised that it washed off all the dirt and road salt off the car and the car looked pretty good. We went to the Walmart and I got in a nice indoor walk. We stopped at the Chinese supermarket on the way back and to especially buy pork riblets to make for Andrea and Peyton and hope for fresh rice noodles to make gon chow ngau ho for our Isaac and Peyton. Whoo whoo, we scored on both and even found some decent fuzzy melons to make soup. We went to Alex's to bring the frozen dim sum to store in his freezer and to steam some of those bad boys to eat. When we got home and I prepared and boiled the pork ribs ahead of time to make tomorrow along with a few other dishes for the kids. I love cooking for the kids and hopefully what I make is a tasty and nutritious home cook meal. While the ribs were simmering, I watched episode 6 of NICS Origins and I have enjoyed watching every episode so far. I think this show has the making of a long run hit series like NCIS. The verse of the day is, “Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace din which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God” (Romans 5:1-2). I rejoice in our Lord and Savior Christ Jesus who have assured my hope of sharing in God's glory. Come, Lord Jesus.
16 January 2025
I was surprised to wake up to a dusting of overnight snow, I didn't bother to tend to it because the temperature was supposed to climb above freezing today and tomorrow before taking a gradual nose dive as the polar vortex give way to the arctic blast this weekend. The Midwest temperature swings are really something. Is it too early to to start counting down the days before spring? My hands get really dry during the winter months and are exacerbated by frequent hand washing and hand sanitizer. Today is Andrea's birthday and Fawn showed me a picture of Andrea when she was a little girl; Peyton is the spitting image of her mama with different color hair. We went out for a brief visit to see my brother and sister; they went into the city and bought some frozen dim sum and fresh baked char sui boas from Chinatown. Since we were out, we stopped at a few of big box stores and went grocery shopping at the Jewels and at Meijers and got in a quite a bit of walking in. We all got together on FaceTime and sang, Happy Birthday! The song of the day is, Cry To Me - Solomon Burke. It is strange that I don’t remember this song growing up, but remember it from the movie, Dirty Dancing. The verse of the day is, "The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life, but the mouth of the wicked conceals violence" (Proverbs 10:11). Lord, set a watch over my lips and let the meditation of my heart be acceptable in you sight.
15 January 2025
Dang, talk about crazy cold, it was zero degrees Fahrenheit when I woke up this morning! It is hard to believe that that the temperature will be above freezing tomorrow and Friday then a look ahead to Sunday and Monday with an artic blast bringing with it subzero temperatures. Mmm, I made myself a bowl of savory tacolike oatmeal for breakfast. Wow, the Los Angeles County, California wildfire started on January 7th and is still nowhere contained. If any place need rain this moment, it's southern California. I diced up some celery and some water chestnut and stir fried I'd before mixing in the leftover e-fu from yesterday for our lunch, it turned out to be pretty tasty. It was dinner and a movie night; I made us a teppanyaki-style chicken teriyaki that was similar to those found in shopping center food courts for our dinner. I use the word similar because I made this dish using chicken tenderloins instead of chicken thighs because the less fat content is healthier. I watched episode five of NCIS Orgins. I listened to Biden's farewell speech and was going to pen a long rant about his speech and his presidency, but I'll just say that it was pathetic and good riddance. Yesterday was my older sister’s birthday; it would have been her 75th birthday. We will cherish her memory and will love her forever. I have had a truly blessed life, my parent, siblings, wife, children, son-in-law, and grandchildren have especially bought me great joy. Of course it goes without saying I have been blessed beyond measure with the gift of family and friends. God has dealt bountiful with me, his steadfast love endures forever.
14 January 2025
The initial plan was to go out and about early this morning, so I set the alarm to wake up early. That was a huge mistake, albeit I expected it to be super cold again this morning, I didn't expect so much overnight snow into the morning. We ended up waiting for the snow to stop before going out to shovel it. Despite loathing snow, I did not allow it to steal the joy of the gift of another new day. We went to the Sam's Club pharmacy for med because we switched one of my prescriptions back from the Jewels because of pricing. We have to staying on top of the cost of our med because the price keeps on radically fluctuating. We got gas at the Shell station across the road from the Sam's Club for $3.119 a gallon. I think that it is funny how I always think about Joe Biden when we stop for gas. By no means am I thrilled with Donald Trump having a second term, but I can hardly wait until POTUS presidency end, the vast majority of the man's policies are ludicrous. I not only think that this POTUS is cognitively challenged he is also delusion about his own accomplishments. We stopped for tacos at Burrito Parrilla Mexicana to bring to Alex's for lunch. I did something that I haven't done in a long time last night and watched an old time western TV show. I came across a Bonanza episode on YouTube. Oh wow, I came just came across, I Feel the Earth Move - Carole King. Sweet, I just paused and we facetimed with Andrea, Rob and our grandkids. Our grandkids are such a hoot, my day is complete. Thanks be to God for the technology that allows us to distance communicate on a video call.
13 January 2025
"I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world" (John 16:33). I am grateful for the beautiful morning sun, one of many of God’s good gift. Truly, every good and perfect gift comes from God. There is no doubt we are in dead of winter when we wake to single digit temperatures. There is no doubt in my mind that we can expect to see subzero temperatures later this month. Today was pretty much like yesterday, mama make me a salad for lunch and I binge watched two more episodes of NCIS Origins. I made us e-fu, also known as yi mein and longevity noodles for supper, it isn't as good as a restaurant would make it, but it was still tasty and way cheaper than what you would have to pay for it at a restaurant.
12 January 2025
I woke up once again to the sound of the howling wind. I can't reiterate it enough how much I don't care for the winter season and all that comes with it. With that said, I glad to be alive and thank for God's help during this cold and harsh season to provide warmth and protection. I see that we got some overnight snow and the current ongoing snowfall is due to taper off this afternoon. Albeit I'm late getting onboard, I only recently heard about NCIS Origins and ten episodes of season one are already out. I made us egg fried rice for lunch and binge watched the first two episodes on YouTube TV.
11 January 2025
The howling winds in the still on the night during the winter months are really something. I thank God for his comfort and protection during the night and for the gift of a new day in the morning, our beautiful Savior's steadfast love endures forever. Well it settled, Notre Dame will be facing Ohio State in Atlanta for the National Championship. I was totally wrong about the Longhorns, they played terrible in the Cotton Bowl. The Cotton Bowl was a far cry from the Orange Bowl game and think the Irish victory came about from the sheer determination of the team as illustrated by Jeremiyah Love's incredible touchdown run against Penn State. It was nice of Eric to invite us out to Mapo for lunch, especially when he has to drive all the way out to the burbs from the city. We haven't been in that restaurant in ages, and it has been nicely remodeled. I thought the food was pricey and the portions a tad smaller than expected, but will say that the food tasted really good and leaps and bounds better than expected. I'm guessing that they are under new management/owners. Since we were already out, we decided to do a little shopping and get in little exercise walking. Hmm, everyone is saying Ohio State is currently the best team in the country and that can very well be. So if Notre Dame can beat them in Atlanta, what will all the doubters say about Irish then? Of course Notre Dame will play their best game yet and it goes without saying, "to be the best you have to beat the best." Today was a very good day, thanks be to God for the gift of a loving family and caring friends.
10 January 2025
Not good, we woke up to about two inches of overnight snow and are expecting one to three of additional snow. Even though I don't relish the idea of having to tend to shoveling all that snow, I am happy to be alive. What a team! We managed to shovel all the snow off our driveway, sidewalk, and the front and back porch in 40 minutes! Even more surprising was that I wasn't huffing and puffing. With the snow still falling, I suspect that we'll be out there at least two more times before day’s end. Call me crazy, but I predicted Notre Dame will be playing Texas for the National Championship a while back and am still sticking to that. I always thought that California was a strange country, but I had no idea just how dysfunctional California really was/is. I really think it is sad and hope there will be lessons learned from their huge catalog of dysfunctional state programs. I truly don't understand the mindset of Californians. Thank be to God we only got about another two inches of snow fall so we went out a second time just before nightfall and gotrdun and spread the salt. It’s time to wrap up this journal entry and get ready for the Cotton Bowl. It really doesn't matter to me which team Notre Dame will be facing for the National Championship, I'm just rooting for the Irish to win it all. Thanks be to God for the strength for us to get through the snow shoveling and helping us get through our winter chore, God is good.
9 January 2025
I woke up to the sound of the garbage truck moving about in the neighborhood early this morning. I was good to see that the sun was out which means the days are somewhat starting to get noticeably longer. Clearly it is also getting colder as the temperature was only 9 °F when we got up. We layered up and went to the Sam's Club pharmacy for our meds and to do a little shopping in the Oswego area before heading to Alex's for lunch. We got takeout from Lucky Panda. Mmm, shrimp egg foo young and mao pao tofu. Surprisingly I got in quite a few steps in this morning and there is a good chance that I might get in a ten thousand plus steps day in by day's end. I am so amazed at how warm and comfortable being layered up in thermal clothing is. Wow, what a great quarter final game. I was totally surprised how well Penn State played against the Irish. Sweet, Notre Dame 27 Penn State 24 and is headed Atlanta to play in the National Championship! I can't say enough about the depth of this team collectively. I like both Ohio State and Texas. Call me crazy, but I think Notre Dame will be facing the Long Horns on January 20th.
8 January 2025
"Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name!" (Psalm 103:1). Praise God for his unending and immeasurable love. We had plenty of things to tend to indoors rather than be out and about in the cold. We stayed indoors today and spent the day doing exercises and paper work. Good eats, I made a rubeye steak for our dinner, I turned my portion into a tasty ribeye steak and egg sandwich. What the heck is going on with deadly wildfires in southern California in the month of January? I don't understand why they have so many wildfires year after year in that state, apparently they don't either.
7 January 2025
"The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness" (Lamentations 3:22-23). Albeit we woke to a cold brisk morning in the low teens, I am grateful for this new day, his mercies never end. I am glad to see that we had a nice mix of sun and clouds today. We went out early and braved the cold for my annual oncology doctor's appointment, I am sure that it is an annual event that no one looks forward to. I thank God for my wife who cares for me and keep all my medical records in order. Our sidewalk and driveway was iced over and slick so I spread salt over it. Since we were out in the garage, it was a good time to break down all the shipping boxes from the Christmas season. Hmm, we ate spaghetti for lunch again and albeit I made certain to eat less than I ate yesterday, I still ended up taking a short nap again. It's time to start musing about Irish football again. Since Notre Dame already faced their toughest opponent this year last week at the Peach Bowl, I think that Notre Dame will fare well in the Orange Bowl with a double digit win over Penn State Thursday night. My brother gave me a wellness call and we always seem to talk about health in general and about college football. Prayers for our family and love one's health and wellbeing. God is good and he has dealt bountifully with me, great is his faithfulness.
6 January 2025
"Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you" (Isaiah 60:1). Lord grant that I may actively live out my faith and be a beacon of hope for others. I woke this morning to the sound of the howling wind. Of course I was wondering how much snow we got overnight, but it was too early to jump out of bed, so I laid in mused about Epiphany, our hope and revelation, and how a star led the Magi to the infant Christ King. It is amazing how God’s light shines and leads us in our otherwise dark world. I was happy to see that we only got a dusting of overnight snow, but we aren't out of the wood yet because there is still two to three inches of snow expected to fall in our neck of the woods today. Mmm, ate spaghetti for lunch. I must of eaten too much, because I ended up taking a afternoon nap. I decided to go light and made myself a garden salad for dinner. Whew, it looks like we got away without getting the expected snowfall! It is so weird seeing people post all the snow got from the major storm that missed us. I usual am filled with joy whenever the kids call and FaceTime, but the news was all that great this time around. It isn’t easy to rejoice in learning that Alex will have to relocate out of state if he wants to stay with his company. It has been up in the air as to when he had to relocate, all we can do is pray and trust in God’s plan.
5 January 2025
Today is the twelfth day of Christmas and the end of the Christmas liturgical season and the eve of the season of Epiphany. Lift up my heart in gratitude, O Lord, and lead us by faith into your presence. We are now in the period where we wake up in the teens and the high of the day remains well below the freezing mark. I am not looking forward to when we will be facing single digits or worse. Albeit it as cold this morning, at least it was calm, it is my understanding the winds will pick up and a snow storm will move it later today overnight and into tomorrow. Prayers that this massive winter storm stays to the south of us. I am so thankful that we are blessed with the means to stay warm during the winter months. Prayers for those who are finding that to be challenging. Albeit grey overcast skies are common during the winter months, I can never get use to it. I surprised myself and actually watched the Chicago Bears vs Green Bay Packers game without falling asleep. I have to admit that I thought that the Bears would find a way to lose and blow the game. They actually did choke and allowed the Packers score with less than a minute to go, but then managed a last procession 24 - 22, 51 yard field goal win. I'm betting for Bears fans, today's victory over Packers felt like winning the Super Bowl. I made us stir fried tomato beef for dinner. I just took a peek out the window and it hasn’t begun to snow as forecasted as of yet, that is a good thing, knock on wood.
4 January 2025
Joy to the world, happy eleventh day of Christmas! O happy day! We were up early and headed to Alex's to meet up with the family. There is no getting around the need dress up warmly by laying up, because we will be in the deep freeze now for some time. I will be surprised to see the temperature get above the freezing mark any time soon. The good news is that at least we got another day with morning sunshine. The days are still somewhat short with the sun so far south and low to the horizon, it makes driving challenging at times. We are creatures of habit, despite having a boat load of dim sum, we still stopped by Mariano's for doughnuts and I still had the usual scrambled eggs and breakfast sausage links, no bacon this morning. After breakfast we rented the movie, Wicked, on Amazon Prime, and the guys watched the musical with the two kids while the ladies went out and about. I made us beef with Chinese broccoli and beef with bok choy. Both went well over the Cantonese style fried noodles. We celebrated Andrea's birthday with a delicious German chocolate cake. I'm am thankful for Rob's willingness to drive his family down as often as he does for our family gatherings, thanks be to God for the blessings of this day.
3 January 2025
I’m always happy when waking up to the joy of a new day, especially when the sun is out. I took a quick peek at the weather app and it was in the mid teens with the expected high in the mid 20s, so I layered up with thermal clothing down to my underwear before we headed out and about early this morning. The radio forecaster said that windchill made it feel like single digits, but I don't know because I was comfortable. Winter is officially here, thanks be to God for warm clothing and a warm home. We first went to Jewels and bought a few groceries and a celebratory cake for this weekend. We then went the Chinese supermarket, I still can't get over it being called, Park and Shop. I was surprised that they had decent looking Chinese bitter melon and gai lan. Albeit disappointing, it was surprising that there was no fresh rice noodles to be found. We went to MingHin to splurge on dim sum to celebrate our baby. We called in the order and they said that it would be at least a half hour before the order would be ready, so we went to the Danada area to do a little shopping. I only mentioned that because there were spaz drivers were about in the parking lot. Sigh, walking to the store, a driver turned in front on me a parking space a almost ran me over and on the way out the store, never mind that I was in the pedestrian walkway, a car didn't even bother to stop or even slow down, so sad what some people have become. Albeit this wasn't the case, one can't assume anything about anybody behind the wheels anymore after the recent deadly destruction at the Christmas market in Magdeburg, Germany and our own New Year's attack in New Orleans. Since we couldn't find any rice noodles, I prepare three one pound packages of Cantonese style noodles ahead of time for this weekend. The verse of the day is, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8). Thanks be God for his steadfast love. Life’s greatest privilege is to live coram deo. May we do so as we journey back to Eden in faith hop and love.
2 January 2025
We woke up to a bright sunshiny day rejoicing to the ninth day of Christmas. The morning's light reminds me of God’s eternal light which dawns on our darkness in the incarnation of his only begotten Son who brings us love, hope and joy. We went out and did lunch Mary Emma before she leaves town heads back home to New Jersey tomorrow. Boy o boy did it turn super cold when the clouds moved in. I hope the snow flurries we are currently seeing doesn't turn into anything more. What and awesome Sugar Bowl game, Notre Dame 23 Georgia 10. The Fighting Irish Defense has remarkable depth, it seems like matter who is in the job still gets done. I am looking to the Orange Bowl game next Thursday against Penn State. I turned on the porch light and saw that we got a dusting of snow on the ground. Great to FaceTime with the kids again today, looks like we have plans to gather again this weekend! We’ll need to go out tomorrow and do a little grocery shopping so that I can whip up some Chinese comfort for this weekend. I hope that the Chinese supermarket have something. It is kind of sad that a big supermarket like that has supply chain issues. The verse of the day is, “to put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires” (Ephesians 4:22). We need to daily set aside our old self because it is corrupted by deceitful desires. Thanks be to God for grace and the new self.
1 January 2025
Happy New Year! Now I surprised myself was able to recall how to create this new page. Today is a exciting for football with three CFP with three new year's day bowl games. Call me crazy but I think Texas will be playing Notre Dame on January 20th. We'll see as the day goes on. First up is the the Peach Bowl between the Texas Long Horns and the Arizona State Sun Devils. Not exactly game food, but I ate a delicious fried cod salad for lunch. I was a happy campers all warm and cozy wearing the wearable hooded fleece blanket Rob and Andrea gifted me for Christmas. I love the mindfulness of this gift. Oh wow, I was surprised how close the game was Texas 39 Arizona 31 in double OT. I made myself turkey fried rice for game two, the Rose Bowl. I'll be rooting for the Ohio State Buckeyes over the Oregon Ducks. Game two turned out to be super boring one sided game in favor of the Buckeyes, the final score was Ohio State 41 Oregon 21. I heard earlier in the day about the terrorists attack in New Orleans and the eventual postponing of the Sugar Bowl. But didn't want to dwell on the aftermath of a ISIS terrorist attack by an American citizen that is an U.S. Army Veteran from Texas no less, the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.
Thanks be to God for this new day. I think my problem has not been eating. The food tastes terrible with all the medicine I have been taking. I am going to make it a point to just eat the food regardless of the taste to get stronger and really work hard on the breathing exercises. Today is a cold day sit near the windows, but I welcome the sunlight. Breakfast was scrambled eggs and pancakes. Albeit tasted so gross, I forced one egg and one pancake down. Lunch was a barbecue chicken sandwich. I managed to down about a third of the sandwich. I went for four walks today. I'm still struggling with my breathing exercises, albeit I'm not doing as well as I would like, I still have to continue with the process.
2/5
Glory to God in the highest! I think it is interesting that the hospital has been trying to get into rehab. I guess there isn't enough rooms and have kept me in the ICU. Today was the first day I ordered my own food instead of having the daily specials. I'm all fired up and intend to do more walking today and increasing my breathing exercises. I am grateful for the gift of family, but I am especially grateful for my good wife and brother. Last night was blessing to praise God singing sacred music. Dang it's cold sitting by the window today, I can hear the wind hollowing big time, but the big talk of the day is the ice winter storm that is heading our way for early evening. Eww, the food has a gross aftertaste, I can't believe that I force down a little bit more than yesterday with the scrambled eggs and pancakes. Clearly I didn't know what a Mediterranean salad was, it is by far their nastiest dish I had here so far. Albeit still horrible, at least I was able to force down half the chicken pot pie for supper. I thought for sure that it would have tasted a lot better. I thought that it was interesting that they took me for a walk three times today, but doubled the distance. Bless the Lord my soul. I sang sacred music again today, I am surprised that I don't that every night before going to bed. Albeit I missed the love of my life today, it is far better to be safe than be sorry.
2/6
It is good to be alive, less the Lord who saves me. The staff normally wakes me and sits me upright in a chair at 5:30 a.m. this morning I woke up on my own at 4:15 parched and needed to drink some hot water. It's an awful gloom and doom looking day with very little sunlight. I was able to eat about two-thirds of my scrambled eggs and pancakes this morning by masking the taste with ketchup and hot sauce. I'm hearing from everyone including Fawn that it is like an ice skating rink. The physical therapy took me a a disappointing short walk and was forced on personal hygiene. My second walk of the day went much better. I'm trying my best to improve on breathing exercises with little to no progress, so got in my third walk in by the noon hour. Sigh, here I was thinking that I should be eating more only to learn that my numbers are high and was preventing my physical therapy transfer. I went for my fourth walk at 5 p.m. and hope get one more walk in after supper. It is hard to not think about death and dying when your chest has been opened up for bypass surgery. Thanks be to God who promises to stay by my side. I are about a third of my sliced roasted turkey with gravy mashed and green beans for dinner while listening to sacred music on Lutheran Public Radio!
2/8
"This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it" (Psalm 118:24). Yesterday was a bad day for me; I was super tire all day long and only got two short walks and slept in bed most to the time. Today was just the opposite; I felt pretty good and got my first full walk in at 10:15. They finally moved me from the ICU, to the 12th floor. By the time I got my lunch it was almost three o'clock, so I didn't get to my get in my second walk for the day until 4 p.m. What is up with this freezing rain and howling wind? I love the video technology, it was the first time I used FaceTime on Facebook and thought it was excellent getting all my family together. When we were young with children, I couldn't imagine a greater joy, but God continues blessed with us grandchildren! Sweet I got had my sutures removed at 4:45 I thought that they either forgot about me or they changed their mind. I swear the food is terrible and the only thing editable are the desserts. I was listening to LPR playing sacred music again this evening, it is truly a blessing to praise God in the form of liturgical music. I cleaned up at 8:30 before going on my last walk and to early bed. The breathing exercises are tough, they tend to make me cough which brings about some chest pain. Thanks be to God for his steadfast love his mercies on this poor miserable sinner are remarkable. Our Lord showers us grace upon grace. Lord teach me your precepts at the dawn of each new day, be with me.
2/9
I woke up to the dawn of a beautiful bright sunshiny day. I was surprised that there was ice and snow on the roadways. I ate oatmeal this morning and think that food that bland food is better than eating food tastes terrible. I watched Sunday Mass from Holy Name Cathedral. It it isn't one thing it is is another. I'm just getting over an infection and now I just learned that I'm taking on fluid around my lungs. “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-17). I got in my first walk at 11:15 I had to force my pasta marinara and only managed to finish half of it. It was a blessing to FaceTime with the the family. My second walk didn't come about until 5 o'clock. I opted to enjoy listening to sacred music on lpr instead of the watching the super bowl. I got up to take my third a final walk before cleaning up and going to bed. Thanks be God and rejoicing in the blessings go the day.
2/10
I woke up rejoicing in the gift of life, thanks be to God. I'm not much on having visitors, but I am excited knowing that my wife and brother will be visiting. I worked with physical therapy this morning and we did my walk without the walker. I felt that I was a little wobbly had difficulty standing upright while walking. It was nice to get in my second and third walk at 11:15 and at 2 o'clock with the nurses. I couldn't believe that he doctors performed a procedure to drain the fluid surrounding my left lung. I was stunned when they told me they drew out one and a half liters. I procedure was so painful.
2/11
I woke up nausea this morning and after a couple spoonfuls of oatmeal, I began vomiting big time. I ended up going back to bed and stayed there for the remainder of the day seeking God’s protection.
2/12
I woke this grateful for the blessings of a new day. I had oatmeal, wheat toast and fresh fruit. I was surprised that everything tasted just fine and was able to finally finish most of my breakfast. Clearly today was going to be a better day, but perhaps not weatherwise with this winter storm bringing us 3 - 6 inches of snow. It is going to be a nightmare for folks needing to use the roadways. The verse of the day is, "We love because he first loved us" (1 John 4:19). Help me, O Lord to remember your great love for me when I am led to doubt your grace or wonder about my worthiness. May your love to be reflected in my daily life. Thank you for loving me so completely. Christ first! I finished my mini Italian beef. It was a far cry from a Portillo's but at least it was edible. Lol, it's so weird eating it green beans on a plate instead of with french fries and onion rings. I have this "cough bear" that was given to in the ICU that has been by side since the get go. Everyone here think I should give it a name, so I've assigned that task to Isaac and Peyton. Lol, Peyton named it Mr. Banana. Dinner was nasty, the chicken pot pie was nastier then when I tasted last week I had two highlights of the day, first praising God by continuing to sing, Te Deum, until I memorized the ancient song by heat. The other was facetiming with the kids
2/13
O Gladsome Light, I thank thee Lord for this new day. I woke up to the howling wind and the the busyness of the roadway. I looked at the 10 day forecast and all I saw a string of snow filled days with subzero temperatures of the weather app. I am not a city person, so I am not impressed by any city skyline when I look out the window, but I am loving all the sunlight. A busy day is scheduled ahead for me. I am praying that my lungs are good enough that the tube can be removed and that I begin my physical rehabilitation. Lord, help save and comfort me. I called Fawn and feel bad that she out shoveling the snow. Happy, happy, happy, the drain tube and all my staples were removed at 8:30! Glory to God in the highest. Unbelievable, I finished my entire breakfast oatmeal wheat toast, fruit cup and hot tea. I was thrilled that I got my first walk in for the day at 9:30 and was allowed to wall in the hallways alone as long as I was in full view of a nurse's station. I had a hamburger for lunch that albeit tasted like it came out of a vending machine, I ate the entire burger, that just tells you how bad the food is. I'm doing my best to keep up with my breathing exercises with the aid of an incentive spirometer. I got in my second walk of the day at 12:45 and I feeling pretty good, I'm pretty sure the hospital will be transporting for rehab at their Aurora facility tomorrow afternoon. I met with physical therapy and we went on my third walk at 2:30 and my fourth at 4 o'clock. I got in my 5th walk at 6:15. I had a mixed Caesar salad with chicken. I cleaned up at 8 o'clock and then called it a day. Thanks be to God for the blessings of the day.
2/14
Happy Valentine's Day! "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life" (John 3:16). I am so thankful that Lord is blessings me with the gift of another new day. The Lord has truly blessed me Proverbs 31 treasure. 8 ugly It is hard to believe that I have been in this hospital for 16 days already. Albeit I didn't order much for breakfast, I did my entire breakfast. Calling it delicious or even remotely good would be a stretch, but surprisingly the scrambled eggs, wheat toast and chicken sausage didn't have the nasty taste I have been experiencing. I just looked at the weather app and it is forecasting 4 to 8 inches of snow for this weekend and five day string of subzero temperatures during the week. I took my morning walk and feel that I am stronger and steadier than I have been post surgery. Whoo hoo, I got the news that I will be transported to the Rush Copley facility in Aurora for my rehab. It feels weird to be back wearing everyday clothes. I was in the Aurora facility by 3:30 and was greeted there by Fawn and Bill. I was thrilled that the room was warm and without all the noise from the busyness of the city. Things are certainly looking up, the fish and roasted potatoes was much better than the I have been eating. I rehab begin tomorrow and I pray for strength to go strong enough to go home and on with life. My expected stay here is 7 to 10 days. Praise God, his steadfast love endures forever. It is the will of God in Jesus that we rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks is all circumstances. Clearly, I am not best of circumstances health wise, but I rejoice in this time that allows me to listen to sacred music and grow spiritually and pray more. I thank God how well staffed that facility is.
2/15
Thanks be to God for the peaceful night's rest and for the gift of this day. My schedule for the day written on a board at the start of the day. I will have a OT evaluation from 10:30 to 12:00 and a PT evaluation from 1:00 to 2:30. I sat up for breakfast which came at 8:15. I had a biscuit with sausage gravy that was pretty good with a cup of coffee. It was nice to be sitting upright and lounge comfortably in the chair with the wearable blanket that Rob and Andrea got me for Christmas. I met with Dr Keane at 9 o'clock who will be overseeing by rehabilitation. I liked my OT session, I hand washed myself, brush my teeth and did cleaned myself after using the washroom. It was good to get up and walk to the gym and I met the PT before heading back to my room for lunch. I had the chicken quesadilla that was pretty good. Judging from dinner last night along with the breakfast and lunch today, I say the food is pretty good considering how healthy it is being cooked. There was a lot going in PT and I got good glimpse of road to doing things independently. The biggest thing I saw was balance, getting in and out of bed, and going up and down steps. Sundays are quite days so the plan is to have nurses take me on a walk three times tomorrow. It sounds like there will be two OT sessions and two PT sessions each day starting on Monday. Facetiming with the kids was awesome, there is a chance they will visiting this old man tomorrow. I ate up all my linguine with meatballs, so there is no doubt in my mind the food in this facility is much better. This president appears to very active, Lord grant him wisdom. Guide him that we may live quite and peaceful live. I got a nice walk in and am now preparing to call it a day. Prayers for all my love ones, for health and healing, a for a peaceful night's rest.
2/16
It was good thing that I went to bed early because I got up five times to use the bathroom. Today was the latest I got out of bed. Thanks be to God for this new day and for his gifts. I was surprised that the scrambled eggs, hash browns, turkey sausage and wheat toast was only so-so. I didn't have much of an appetite and only ended up eating half the food. After breakfast, I was thrilled to finally get my first shower since being my surgery. I think that doing my rehab being cared for in a hospital like atmosphere is wonderful. I can't say enough good things about the staff and this facility. I went for a nice at 11 o'clock and hope to get in three walks today. I watched Sunday Mass from Holy Name Cathedral. It was a joy to talk with Fawn and Jennifer on the phone. It is strange to have living so far away and it will strange when Alex will move out state in about a month. I ate a tasty flatbread with mushrooms, peppers and onions for lunch, but think that wasn't the best choice for my noontime meal. I had joyous afternoon, Andrea, Rob, Fawn, Alex and our grandkids! God is good. I went for my second of the day at 3:30. Carl dropped by for visit at four o'clock but left at five when my supper came. It was so kind and mindful him to visit. I wasn't able to finish the second chicken taco. They were OK but a far cry from the tacos I am accustom to eating. I went for my third and final walk at 7:30 before getting ready for bed. I am glad getting back to normal with my bowel movements. Today was a very good day that was filled with countless blessings. Prayers for God's presence and safe keeping in my home while I am way. May his holy angels guard over all my love ones.
2/17
Christ first! I woke up thanking God for this new day. Ĺast night was pretty much like the night getting up often to urinate. I was happy to be regular this morning. Albeit I feel stronger and slightly better with each pasting day, I wonder if I can get to a place where I was before my surgery. It was -1 °F I woke up this morning and the forecast is for subzero temperatures during the week. The deep freeze that we have been in that will continue to be in until next week is insane. Everything seems to me on a schedule at this rehab facility. I am waken up around 7:15, my meals are at 8 12 and 5 o'clock. I have a OT and PT sessions in morning as well as both in the afternoon. I finished my oatmeal wheat toast and yogurt and thought that this morning's breakfast is more to what I have at home. I thought that my morning OT session when well and that I was able to hand wash and dress for the fairly readily. I possibly ate the worst fish sandwich ever, talk about dry. My OT and PT for the day was focused on balance, flexibility and building up endurance. I feel that my day in rehab was very beneficial. I watched episode 11 of NCIS: Origin. It is amazing how many different NCIS series there are and how successful they are. I ate meatloaf for dinner and it was just OK. I was hoping to get a walk early before going to bed, but that didn't happen. I went for a walk at 8:15. I listened sacred music on LPR while in bed. It is crazy how early I need to call it a day because between the diuretics that causes me to get up frequent at night and getting woken up for this and that in order to get an adequate amount of slept I thank God for the blessings of the day, his steadfast love endures forever. May the Lord grant his holy angels to watch over me and all my love ones and for a peaceful night's rest.
2/18
God is good. Thanks be to God for a good night's rest. I slept all the way until 8 o'clock when breakfast came. The outside temperature was up to -5 °F by then. I woke up thankful for this bright new sunshiny day. I feel pretty good and stronger with the pasting of each new day as I petition daily for our Lord’s strength and for wisdom. I had an egg omelet for breakfast and only managed to finish about two-thirds of it because it was quite huge. For a healthy omelet, it was pretty good. We get new schedule for the day every morning, the two OT and PT times are not at a daily fixed time. I was surprised to see a recreational therapy session added to the schedule for the day. I took a nice hot shower during my morning OT session. Sweet, I thought that PT was very productive and able to get a pretty good ten minute workout using a seated elliptical machine to wrap up my morning session. I ate a plain hamburger along with a tomato soup. Naturally a healthy hamburger is anything but a juicy one. Albeit I am still learning as well as doing beneficial things during my therapy session, I think I rather be home. I got in my first walk of the day at 4 o'clock. It was a nice long one at that. I am looking forward to doing gradually doing more walking once I am back home. When we got back to my room, I relaxed with a nice cup of hot water and watched NCIS: Origins episode 12. I had the Chef's salad for dinner. I don't think that there is a way to mess that up. I'm clueless to why someone would make a salad so huge. I went for my second walk at 6:30 and then hopped into bed to relax and listen to sacred music on LPR. Praise God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit who fills and complete me.
2/19
I woke up to cloudy and bitterly cold day. I've been indoors this entire time so I don't know if I could differentiate 4 °F to a subzero temperature. Praise the Lord, his steadfast love endures forever. I thank God that I am alive and feel like I am continuing to get stronger day by by. I was surprised to therapy sessions starting at 8:45 this morning. That's fine with me, the only thing I like would that the OT and PT sessions weren't always back to back. Whoo hoo, I got a release date to go home on Saturday! My OT session was focused on coordination as well going over a home safety check list doing things at home, while PT was giving a focused on building up my strength and endurance. I didn't come to finishing my roasted turkey with gravy with mashed potatoes and green bean sides, the portions were huge. My afternoon OT session was very good, we simulated my home environment. Be it stepping in and out of a tub shower or going things in the kitchen. It was very kind and mindful of Albert and Helen to bless me with a hospital visit. I got in a nice walk before doing a dinner and a movie. I had the Asian stir fry with beef over rice and watched NCIS: Origins episode 13, now I'm all catch up. I thought the meal OK, but I doubt it was stir fried, it was more like a stew. We had a joyous family call on FaceTime. I is not that often when I am blessed to be on with all my children and grandchildren, God is good. PT pushed me pretty hard today, so I decided to call it a day super early and rest in bed instead of going for another walk. Prayers for all my love ones that our Lord will come their rescue and meet our needs. Prayers for a peaceful night's rest.
2/20
Thanks be to God for the gift of this new day. I am by nature sinful and unclean, renew me, O Lord. I looked at the weather app and it looks like we will remain in the deep freeze for several more days. Today OT and PT schedule looks the same as yesterday for me. Fawn has a family Ed meeting this afternoon, I'm thinking it has to do with caring for me at home once I am released. It is exciting times preparing to go back home. I took a hot shower during OT this morning and worked on balancing activities. They really pushed me big time this morning during PT because my cardio restrictions were lifted. Our Family Ed session with OT, PT, nurse and social worker this afternoon was very good and informative. I thank God for my wife who is so mindful of so many things big and small. I got in a nice walk before diving into a plate of linguine with meatballs again dinner and managed to a big dent in it, I probably ate more of it than I should have. I went for my second walk before hopping into bed early. It was a opportunity to meditate and sing praises to the Lord and reflect on his goodness. The liturgical season of Lent is approaching. Lent is about repentance, humility, asking for forgiveness and forgiving others, being merciful, and being content in our life with Christ. In my mind, we should never ceases examining ourselves as to if we have somehow sinned in thought, words or deeds. Truly his steadfast love endures forever. The highlight of the day was seeing and spending time with my darling wife, she is truly a Proverbs 31 treasure. Intercessory prayers for all my love ones.
2/21
Praise God, Christ first! O let us rejoice in the new day the Lord has made. It is hard to believe that we are still in a deep freeze and waking up to single digit temperatures. I was happy that Fawn came to visit me early and joined my early morning therapy sessions. I was given a PT discharge evaluation that was the same as the one given to me on day one of rehab and my assessment score was leaps and bounds better. It was interesting when Fawn asked me if there was anything in particular that I wanted to eat when I got home tomorrow because I had nothing in particular that I had a taste for. I have eating food that was either just bland or outright nasty just for nourishment. Albeit my afternoon therapy were are short, I still was find them very beneficial. The sessions were both focused on balance. The OT was in the kitchen area picking up cones inside appliances and cabinets while PT I was doing various standing and moving about leg exercises. My brother blessed me with a hospital and my heart was filled with joy. I haven't watched a western for a very long time, so I turned to YouTube and found, Apache Rifles, starring Audie Murphy. Now that's what I'm talking about, I am so proud of my grandson getting a perfect score this week in school. I thank God who watches over me and all my love ones.
26 January 2025
"Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name!" (Psalm 103:1). Truly, we are renewed each and every new day through Christ our Lord. Christ first! Albeit is cooler today than we are expecting it to be in the low 40s tomorrow and beyond into the month of February! Mama was ready for the NFL AFC and NCF championship games and brought an extra large Domino's pizza for game food. Of course I ate too much and dosed off early in the first quarter. The next thing I knew, it was the start of the third quarter. I had no idea who was the better team going into the game, but that became very obvious during the Eagles 55 - 23 blowout dominance over the Commanders. I finished off the last of the fuzzy melon soup and had a garden salad for my dinner. Fawn when on to watch the Chiefs Bills game without me, for some reason I can't get into watching pro football. The day is almost over, Lord, with me abide.
25 January 2025
"Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I entrust my life" (Psalm 143:8). Thanks be to God for this new day. Steer my thoughts and deeds, O Lord, that I may walk upright in your precepts. I made us a fresh pot of oatmeal and love how the morning sunlight is shining in while enjoying breakfast. It is my understanding that sunlight increases the production of serotonin in the brain which is helps a person feel calm and focused. I am feeling so blessed by all the support of family and friends, their intercessory prayers on my behalf are most appreciated. Mmm, I made chicken and barbecue pork fried rice for lunch. We had a bid melt as climbed up into the upper 30s. It was quite a breezy day. Since we stayed indoors, I hopped on the elliptical twice to get some exercise. I made us beef with broccoli for dinner and had a bowl of soup to go along with it; that bought back many fond childhood memories were my mom would always make soup to go along with just about every meal. Happy haircut! Fawn always does a great job cutting my hair; I'm surprised I don't ask her to cut it for me more often because I always feel great after getting a haircut. My trust is in the Lord, for he is good, his steadfast love endures forever.
24 January 2025
I woke up grateful to a bright sunshiny day and for the gift of life. I was surprised that we were once again in subzero temperatures because I did see that in the ten day forecast. It is not clear to me how we will get to the expected above freezing temperatures by tomorrow afternoon. How can I not be thankful for the the peaceful night's rest, God's blessings are abundant. Instead of just hiding in the house from the cold, we went out and about and met up with Peggy at the Naperville Fresh Market, she made and gifted us with some char sui that she made. Her kindness, well wishes and prayers or most welcomed. Of course, I was all bundled and just sat in the car enjoying the fresh air and sunlight. It is amazing how we are able to do that when we are properly dressed. There was hope of containing the wildfire in southern California only to have new fire breakout. Clearly, containment of multiple wildfires will prove to be even more challenging to put out. We made a nice big delicious pot of fuzzy melon soup which humidified and warmed up our home quite nicely. We added wontons and slices of char sui as soup toppings, so hearty and good. Albeit pales to God’s word, indeed soup is good for soul in a very different way. The verse of the day is, "And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit" (2 Corinthians 3:18). Wow, what a amazing and baffling truth of our journey back to Eden in our every day Christian life as we behold the glory of God and are transformed into his image with the help of the Holy Spirit. As we journey through life and are also bound to the changes that comes with aging. Prayers for my friend and family as we seek our Lord’s wisdom and guidance in making the right choices for our health and for strength and endurance to face the difficulties that come with aging with courage and grace.
23 January 2025
I woke grateful for the blessings of a new day, bless the Lord my soul. We got about an inch of overnight snow and our days remains breezy and cold. We are still a couple day away from seeing above freezing temperatures. I am thankful that I didn't have to rush out early to shovel the snow on my sidewalk before the kids had to trek to school because my neighbor blessed me with needed. I tended to snow on the driveway and am thankful that the accumulated snow was only fluff and was able to very quickly getrdun. After lunch, I layered up big time because we went out and about on the way to Alex's. I just sat in the car while Fawn went in a few if the store because I wanted to avoid people and not get sick. I enjoyed the fresh air and being out in the sunlight. Thanks be to God for warm clothing. I didn’t feel like cooking supper so we stopped at the Jewels for their deli fried chicken. I think that their fried chicken pretty much like the franchise fried chicken joints, because they all fried them ahead of time and toss them under a light. It isn’t like the good old days where fried chicken is fried fresh to order. I am grateful for the blessing of the day.
22 January 2025
I was stunned at what time I woke up this morning but it was all relative because I foolishly stayed up late last night for no particular reason. It's not good to put my sleeping habits all out of whack like that. There was a light dusting of snow on the ground and on the rooftops. As cold as it continues to be, I was surprised to see that the forecast is calling the temperatures to be above freezing by this weekend. I made us beef and peapods and did a lunch and movie binge watching NCIS Origins episodes 9 and 10! I really enjoy watching this television series. I thought the dish came out pretty good, but I think I like the taste of shrimp and pea pods more. I had a relaxing afternoon listening to classical music playing in the background. The verse of the day is, "Let them thank the LORD for his steadfast love, for his wondrous works to the children of man!" (Psalm 107:8). This has been a strange week for me and a lot has on my mind. Strange as it has been, there was much rejoicing for the Lord has dealt bountifully with me my entire life. Mmm, I easily myself a nice garden salad add included cantaloupe, pineapple and strawberries mama had all cut up for my dinner. I would have stayed indoors all day if it wasn’t for the need to roll out the trash and recycle bids curbside and to get the mail, so cold. Sweet, we facetimed with the kids and our grands, my day is complete, God.
21 January 2025
Yes I woke up and had to take a peek to see what our outdoor temperature was, -8 °F. How can I not be thankful for a warm home on a cold winter day? Outside the threat of snow, I have to believe that we will be moving on beyond winter's worst. I praise God and rejoice in his gift of every new day. Our Lord showers us with grace upon grace. The Fighting Irish defense was no match for the Buckeyes, they finally showed up to play during the 4th quarter in the Natty. The final score was OSU 34 ND 23. I had to remind myself that it's only a game. Imagine that, we are so blessed that the loss of college football game would be occupying one's mind in a broken world. I watched NCIS Origins episode eight, two more episode and I will be all caught up. I went to whitehouse.gov a saw there was avalanche of executive orders under "presidential actions" many which are recession of Biden’s executive orders. I think between all of Joe Biden's and Donald Trump's executive orders, pardons and preemptive pardon, and commutations, it's enough to turn one's head. Prayers for the future of our nation.
20 January 2025
I was interested in how cold it was early this morning and it was -2 °F when I woke up. In my mind, the only thing good about waking up to subzero temperatures is the blessings of waking up to our Lord’s care, his steadfast love endures forever. We watched the inauguration of Donald Trump as the 47th president of the United States. It did not come as a surprise that his inaugural speech outlined a robust national agenda, but it was interesting that he doesn't hold back anything and said what is on his mind. A large portion of his is inauguration speech sounded very much like criticism of the 46th president his administration. Clearly he will be building his legacy on the frustration of the American people over the past four years. May our nation yield to God and follow his will. Lord, empower this president and vice president with wisdom to serve in a manner that is pleasing to you. Hmm, the California wildfire started close to two weeks ago and it it only 50 percent contained, that is pretty sad. Mmm, mama made us a really nice salad/fruit platter for our lunch. I never realized that this president has so much energy and can go on and on making one long speech after another. Today is Martin Luther King Day. Dr. King was an American Baptist minister, activist, and political philosopher who was one of the most prominent leaders in the civil rights movement from 1955 until his assassination in 1968. Saint Augustine once wrote, “... that which is not just seems to be no law at all.” Time to put away the pen and prepare some game food, wrap myself up and get cozy in my wearable blanket to cheer on the Fighting Irish!
19 January 2025
We stayed up way past our normal bedtime last night, so I woke up much later than usual. It is so nice not to routinely wake up to the sound of an alarm clock and waking up to the blessings of God’s peace. I just had to look at the weather app while in bed because I knew the cold was set to move in. It was 3 °F and the hourly forecast called for the temperatures remain in the single digits. Albeit not ideal, we watched Sunday Mass from Holy Name Cathedral. Sadly, the service broadcast interrupted with a live presidential broadcast briefing by Biden struggling to read coherently off a teleprompter about the release of the first three hostages that were abducted by Hamas. It is my understanding that first ceasefire deal phase allows the slow release of 33 hostages over a 42 day period. This is followed by addition ceasefire periods were the remaining hostages are to be released. I think both President Biden and President-elect Trump should be given credit for given for this ceasefire deal in Gaza, but have to believe the incoming administration played a pivotal role in moving the negotiations between Israel and Hama along. I mused a little about the possibilities of huge changes that are likely to come about with the incoming of Donald Trump as a second term president. Albeit I am not thrilled with him as the POTUS, I am happy to see Biden and his administration longer governing our nation. I have heard it ridiculously said that if you're not rooting for a president to succeed that you are rooting against the country. I can without reservations say the many of Biden and his administration were unacceptable and way beyond the pale. I am sure there will be policies that Trump will move toward that I will not be thrilled with either, my prayer are for leaders who will govern with honor, wisdom, and moral courage. I did a lunch and a movie watching episode 7 of NCIS Origins and enjoying a taco. I had a conversation with my son the other about this TV series and we both agree that this show is pretty good and apparently I don't what binge watching is when I told him that binge watch two or three episodes of various movies every now or then. We were sadden to learn that one of our neighbors down the street is terminally ill and the end is nigh. Prayers for God’s comforting and reassuring presence. Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live" (John 11:25).
18 January 2025
"And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O Lord, have not forsaken those who seek you" (Psalm 9:10). The Lord is out stronghold. Thanks be to God, I woke up to the blessings of another new day. I stir fried the two packages of pork ribs to make ribs with black bean and garlic sauce and divved it up three ways. But I wasn't done with cooking for the kids, I used two packages of rice noodles and made gon chow ngau ho and divvied that up three ways too. It was definitely a pure canto comfort food eating day. There is a lot of work that goes into preparing Cantonese cuisine. Mama and I make for a awesome kitchen team. I have been truly blessed, what a wonderful life. After lunch we when out and about shopping for fresh fruit and vegetables and to drop off Alex's portion of the good eats. Rat's we forgot the Alex preferred the more common steamed dim sum style ribs. I'm pretty sure we will be hiding indoors sheltering from the expected deep subzero freeze that is heading our way. Initially I was going to walk but I I didn't like being in the crowded store so I headed back out and sat in the car. It was Stanger to see so many road warriors out and about on the roadway. We saw a bunch of weavers and spazzes driving on the roadways with total disregard for the rules to road. The only thing good about being out and about was being able to take in the sunshine. It was really noticeable how the wind was picking up and how the temperature was rapidly dropping while we were out. Thanks be to God for warm clothing. Rob and Andrea stopped by to pick up the food that we made since they came down to Sandy's birthday party. We opted not to go because I wanted to do my best to not come down with anything before my upcoming surgery. I was kicked back and watched the nfl divisional round games between the Chiefs vs Texans as well as the Lions vs Commanders. I was all cozy wearing my wearable blanket. I was surprised that I didn't fall asleep during either of the games. I didn't root for any of the teams over the other and just wanted to get a feel for the teams. I hear a lot of debate over about college football vs the NFL. For me, I find college football more exciting. Anyway, it's been a long day and way past my bedtime. May the Lord bless us and keep us, may his face on us and give us peace.
17 January 2025
Thanks be to God for the blessings of this new day. The word zip-a-dee-doo-dah comes to mind while we were out and about in the Oswego area. It is very telling how cold it has been this winter when I can think of a bright sunny 45 degree day as a nice winter day. We stopped for gas and it was $3.099 a gallon and then we went to Sparkles for a car wash. It now cost $7 for the basic car wash. I was actually surprised that it washed off all the dirt and road salt off the car and the car looked pretty good. We went to the Walmart and I got in a nice indoor walk. We stopped at the Chinese supermarket on the way back and to especially buy pork riblets to make for Andrea and Peyton and hope for fresh rice noodles to make gon chow ngau ho for our Isaac and Peyton. Whoo whoo, we scored on both and even found some decent fuzzy melons to make soup. We went to Alex's to bring the frozen dim sum to store in his freezer and to steam some of those bad boys to eat. When we got home and I prepared and boiled the pork ribs ahead of time to make tomorrow along with a few other dishes for the kids. I love cooking for the kids and hopefully what I make is a tasty and nutritious home cook meal. While the ribs were simmering, I watched episode 6 of NICS Origins and I have enjoyed watching every episode so far. I think this show has the making of a long run hit series like NCIS. The verse of the day is, “Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace din which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God” (Romans 5:1-2). I rejoice in our Lord and Savior Christ Jesus who have assured my hope of sharing in God's glory. Come, Lord Jesus.
16 January 2025
I was surprised to wake up to a dusting of overnight snow, I didn't bother to tend to it because the temperature was supposed to climb above freezing today and tomorrow before taking a gradual nose dive as the polar vortex give way to the arctic blast this weekend. The Midwest temperature swings are really something. Is it too early to to start counting down the days before spring? My hands get really dry during the winter months and are exacerbated by frequent hand washing and hand sanitizer. Today is Andrea's birthday and Fawn showed me a picture of Andrea when she was a little girl; Peyton is the spitting image of her mama with different color hair. We went out for a brief visit to see my brother and sister; they went into the city and bought some frozen dim sum and fresh baked char sui boas from Chinatown. Since we were out, we stopped at a few of big box stores and went grocery shopping at the Jewels and at Meijers and got in a quite a bit of walking in. We all got together on FaceTime and sang, Happy Birthday! The song of the day is, Cry To Me - Solomon Burke. It is strange that I don’t remember this song growing up, but remember it from the movie, Dirty Dancing. The verse of the day is, "The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life, but the mouth of the wicked conceals violence" (Proverbs 10:11). Lord, set a watch over my lips and let the meditation of my heart be acceptable in you sight.
15 January 2025
Dang, talk about crazy cold, it was zero degrees Fahrenheit when I woke up this morning! It is hard to believe that that the temperature will be above freezing tomorrow and Friday then a look ahead to Sunday and Monday with an artic blast bringing with it subzero temperatures. Mmm, I made myself a bowl of savory tacolike oatmeal for breakfast. Wow, the Los Angeles County, California wildfire started on January 7th and is still nowhere contained. If any place need rain this moment, it's southern California. I diced up some celery and some water chestnut and stir fried I'd before mixing in the leftover e-fu from yesterday for our lunch, it turned out to be pretty tasty. It was dinner and a movie night; I made us a teppanyaki-style chicken teriyaki that was similar to those found in shopping center food courts for our dinner. I use the word similar because I made this dish using chicken tenderloins instead of chicken thighs because the less fat content is healthier. I watched episode five of NCIS Orgins. I listened to Biden's farewell speech and was going to pen a long rant about his speech and his presidency, but I'll just say that it was pathetic and good riddance. Yesterday was my older sister’s birthday; it would have been her 75th birthday. We will cherish her memory and will love her forever. I have had a truly blessed life, my parent, siblings, wife, children, son-in-law, and grandchildren have especially bought me great joy. Of course it goes without saying I have been blessed beyond measure with the gift of family and friends. God has dealt bountiful with me, his steadfast love endures forever.
14 January 2025
The initial plan was to go out and about early this morning, so I set the alarm to wake up early. That was a huge mistake, albeit I expected it to be super cold again this morning, I didn't expect so much overnight snow into the morning. We ended up waiting for the snow to stop before going out to shovel it. Despite loathing snow, I did not allow it to steal the joy of the gift of another new day. We went to the Sam's Club pharmacy for med because we switched one of my prescriptions back from the Jewels because of pricing. We have to staying on top of the cost of our med because the price keeps on radically fluctuating. We got gas at the Shell station across the road from the Sam's Club for $3.119 a gallon. I think that it is funny how I always think about Joe Biden when we stop for gas. By no means am I thrilled with Donald Trump having a second term, but I can hardly wait until POTUS presidency end, the vast majority of the man's policies are ludicrous. I not only think that this POTUS is cognitively challenged he is also delusion about his own accomplishments. We stopped for tacos at Burrito Parrilla Mexicana to bring to Alex's for lunch. I did something that I haven't done in a long time last night and watched an old time western TV show. I came across a Bonanza episode on YouTube. Oh wow, I came just came across, I Feel the Earth Move - Carole King. Sweet, I just paused and we facetimed with Andrea, Rob and our grandkids. Our grandkids are such a hoot, my day is complete. Thanks be to God for the technology that allows us to distance communicate on a video call.
13 January 2025
"I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world" (John 16:33). I am grateful for the beautiful morning sun, one of many of God’s good gift. Truly, every good and perfect gift comes from God. There is no doubt we are in dead of winter when we wake to single digit temperatures. There is no doubt in my mind that we can expect to see subzero temperatures later this month. Today was pretty much like yesterday, mama make me a salad for lunch and I binge watched two more episodes of NCIS Origins. I made us e-fu, also known as yi mein and longevity noodles for supper, it isn't as good as a restaurant would make it, but it was still tasty and way cheaper than what you would have to pay for it at a restaurant.
12 January 2025
I woke up once again to the sound of the howling wind. I can't reiterate it enough how much I don't care for the winter season and all that comes with it. With that said, I glad to be alive and thank for God's help during this cold and harsh season to provide warmth and protection. I see that we got some overnight snow and the current ongoing snowfall is due to taper off this afternoon. Albeit I'm late getting onboard, I only recently heard about NCIS Origins and ten episodes of season one are already out. I made us egg fried rice for lunch and binge watched the first two episodes on YouTube TV.
11 January 2025
The howling winds in the still on the night during the winter months are really something. I thank God for his comfort and protection during the night and for the gift of a new day in the morning, our beautiful Savior's steadfast love endures forever. Well it settled, Notre Dame will be facing Ohio State in Atlanta for the National Championship. I was totally wrong about the Longhorns, they played terrible in the Cotton Bowl. The Cotton Bowl was a far cry from the Orange Bowl game and think the Irish victory came about from the sheer determination of the team as illustrated by Jeremiyah Love's incredible touchdown run against Penn State. It was nice of Eric to invite us out to Mapo for lunch, especially when he has to drive all the way out to the burbs from the city. We haven't been in that restaurant in ages, and it has been nicely remodeled. I thought the food was pricey and the portions a tad smaller than expected, but will say that the food tasted really good and leaps and bounds better than expected. I'm guessing that they are under new management/owners. Since we were already out, we decided to do a little shopping and get in little exercise walking. Hmm, everyone is saying Ohio State is currently the best team in the country and that can very well be. So if Notre Dame can beat them in Atlanta, what will all the doubters say about Irish then? Of course Notre Dame will play their best game yet and it goes without saying, "to be the best you have to beat the best." Today was a very good day, thanks be to God for the gift of a loving family and caring friends.
10 January 2025
Not good, we woke up to about two inches of overnight snow and are expecting one to three of additional snow. Even though I don't relish the idea of having to tend to shoveling all that snow, I am happy to be alive. What a team! We managed to shovel all the snow off our driveway, sidewalk, and the front and back porch in 40 minutes! Even more surprising was that I wasn't huffing and puffing. With the snow still falling, I suspect that we'll be out there at least two more times before day’s end. Call me crazy, but I predicted Notre Dame will be playing Texas for the National Championship a while back and am still sticking to that. I always thought that California was a strange country, but I had no idea just how dysfunctional California really was/is. I really think it is sad and hope there will be lessons learned from their huge catalog of dysfunctional state programs. I truly don't understand the mindset of Californians. Thank be to God we only got about another two inches of snow fall so we went out a second time just before nightfall and gotrdun and spread the salt. It’s time to wrap up this journal entry and get ready for the Cotton Bowl. It really doesn't matter to me which team Notre Dame will be facing for the National Championship, I'm just rooting for the Irish to win it all. Thanks be to God for the strength for us to get through the snow shoveling and helping us get through our winter chore, God is good.
9 January 2025
I woke up to the sound of the garbage truck moving about in the neighborhood early this morning. I was good to see that the sun was out which means the days are somewhat starting to get noticeably longer. Clearly it is also getting colder as the temperature was only 9 °F when we got up. We layered up and went to the Sam's Club pharmacy for our meds and to do a little shopping in the Oswego area before heading to Alex's for lunch. We got takeout from Lucky Panda. Mmm, shrimp egg foo young and mao pao tofu. Surprisingly I got in quite a few steps in this morning and there is a good chance that I might get in a ten thousand plus steps day in by day's end. I am so amazed at how warm and comfortable being layered up in thermal clothing is. Wow, what a great quarter final game. I was totally surprised how well Penn State played against the Irish. Sweet, Notre Dame 27 Penn State 24 and is headed Atlanta to play in the National Championship! I can't say enough about the depth of this team collectively. I like both Ohio State and Texas. Call me crazy, but I think Notre Dame will be facing the Long Horns on January 20th.
8 January 2025
"Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name!" (Psalm 103:1). Praise God for his unending and immeasurable love. We had plenty of things to tend to indoors rather than be out and about in the cold. We stayed indoors today and spent the day doing exercises and paper work. Good eats, I made a rubeye steak for our dinner, I turned my portion into a tasty ribeye steak and egg sandwich. What the heck is going on with deadly wildfires in southern California in the month of January? I don't understand why they have so many wildfires year after year in that state, apparently they don't either.
7 January 2025
"The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness" (Lamentations 3:22-23). Albeit we woke to a cold brisk morning in the low teens, I am grateful for this new day, his mercies never end. I am glad to see that we had a nice mix of sun and clouds today. We went out early and braved the cold for my annual oncology doctor's appointment, I am sure that it is an annual event that no one looks forward to. I thank God for my wife who cares for me and keep all my medical records in order. Our sidewalk and driveway was iced over and slick so I spread salt over it. Since we were out in the garage, it was a good time to break down all the shipping boxes from the Christmas season. Hmm, we ate spaghetti for lunch again and albeit I made certain to eat less than I ate yesterday, I still ended up taking a short nap again. It's time to start musing about Irish football again. Since Notre Dame already faced their toughest opponent this year last week at the Peach Bowl, I think that Notre Dame will fare well in the Orange Bowl with a double digit win over Penn State Thursday night. My brother gave me a wellness call and we always seem to talk about health in general and about college football. Prayers for our family and love one's health and wellbeing. God is good and he has dealt bountifully with me, great is his faithfulness.
6 January 2025
"Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you" (Isaiah 60:1). Lord grant that I may actively live out my faith and be a beacon of hope for others. I woke this morning to the sound of the howling wind. Of course I was wondering how much snow we got overnight, but it was too early to jump out of bed, so I laid in mused about Epiphany, our hope and revelation, and how a star led the Magi to the infant Christ King. It is amazing how God’s light shines and leads us in our otherwise dark world. I was happy to see that we only got a dusting of overnight snow, but we aren't out of the wood yet because there is still two to three inches of snow expected to fall in our neck of the woods today. Mmm, ate spaghetti for lunch. I must of eaten too much, because I ended up taking a afternoon nap. I decided to go light and made myself a garden salad for dinner. Whew, it looks like we got away without getting the expected snowfall! It is so weird seeing people post all the snow got from the major storm that missed us. I usual am filled with joy whenever the kids call and FaceTime, but the news was all that great this time around. It isn’t easy to rejoice in learning that Alex will have to relocate out of state if he wants to stay with his company. It has been up in the air as to when he had to relocate, all we can do is pray and trust in God’s plan.
5 January 2025
Today is the twelfth day of Christmas and the end of the Christmas liturgical season and the eve of the season of Epiphany. Lift up my heart in gratitude, O Lord, and lead us by faith into your presence. We are now in the period where we wake up in the teens and the high of the day remains well below the freezing mark. I am not looking forward to when we will be facing single digits or worse. Albeit it as cold this morning, at least it was calm, it is my understanding the winds will pick up and a snow storm will move it later today overnight and into tomorrow. Prayers that this massive winter storm stays to the south of us. I am so thankful that we are blessed with the means to stay warm during the winter months. Prayers for those who are finding that to be challenging. Albeit grey overcast skies are common during the winter months, I can never get use to it. I surprised myself and actually watched the Chicago Bears vs Green Bay Packers game without falling asleep. I have to admit that I thought that the Bears would find a way to lose and blow the game. They actually did choke and allowed the Packers score with less than a minute to go, but then managed a last procession 24 - 22, 51 yard field goal win. I'm betting for Bears fans, today's victory over Packers felt like winning the Super Bowl. I made us stir fried tomato beef for dinner. I just took a peek out the window and it hasn’t begun to snow as forecasted as of yet, that is a good thing, knock on wood.
4 January 2025
Joy to the world, happy eleventh day of Christmas! O happy day! We were up early and headed to Alex's to meet up with the family. There is no getting around the need dress up warmly by laying up, because we will be in the deep freeze now for some time. I will be surprised to see the temperature get above the freezing mark any time soon. The good news is that at least we got another day with morning sunshine. The days are still somewhat short with the sun so far south and low to the horizon, it makes driving challenging at times. We are creatures of habit, despite having a boat load of dim sum, we still stopped by Mariano's for doughnuts and I still had the usual scrambled eggs and breakfast sausage links, no bacon this morning. After breakfast we rented the movie, Wicked, on Amazon Prime, and the guys watched the musical with the two kids while the ladies went out and about. I made us beef with Chinese broccoli and beef with bok choy. Both went well over the Cantonese style fried noodles. We celebrated Andrea's birthday with a delicious German chocolate cake. I'm am thankful for Rob's willingness to drive his family down as often as he does for our family gatherings, thanks be to God for the blessings of this day.
3 January 2025
I’m always happy when waking up to the joy of a new day, especially when the sun is out. I took a quick peek at the weather app and it was in the mid teens with the expected high in the mid 20s, so I layered up with thermal clothing down to my underwear before we headed out and about early this morning. The radio forecaster said that windchill made it feel like single digits, but I don't know because I was comfortable. Winter is officially here, thanks be to God for warm clothing and a warm home. We first went to Jewels and bought a few groceries and a celebratory cake for this weekend. We then went the Chinese supermarket, I still can't get over it being called, Park and Shop. I was surprised that they had decent looking Chinese bitter melon and gai lan. Albeit disappointing, it was surprising that there was no fresh rice noodles to be found. We went to MingHin to splurge on dim sum to celebrate our baby. We called in the order and they said that it would be at least a half hour before the order would be ready, so we went to the Danada area to do a little shopping. I only mentioned that because there were spaz drivers were about in the parking lot. Sigh, walking to the store, a driver turned in front on me a parking space a almost ran me over and on the way out the store, never mind that I was in the pedestrian walkway, a car didn't even bother to stop or even slow down, so sad what some people have become. Albeit this wasn't the case, one can't assume anything about anybody behind the wheels anymore after the recent deadly destruction at the Christmas market in Magdeburg, Germany and our own New Year's attack in New Orleans. Since we couldn't find any rice noodles, I prepare three one pound packages of Cantonese style noodles ahead of time for this weekend. The verse of the day is, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8). Thanks be God for his steadfast love. Life’s greatest privilege is to live coram deo. May we do so as we journey back to Eden in faith hop and love.
2 January 2025
We woke up to a bright sunshiny day rejoicing to the ninth day of Christmas. The morning's light reminds me of God’s eternal light which dawns on our darkness in the incarnation of his only begotten Son who brings us love, hope and joy. We went out and did lunch Mary Emma before she leaves town heads back home to New Jersey tomorrow. Boy o boy did it turn super cold when the clouds moved in. I hope the snow flurries we are currently seeing doesn't turn into anything more. What and awesome Sugar Bowl game, Notre Dame 23 Georgia 10. The Fighting Irish Defense has remarkable depth, it seems like matter who is in the job still gets done. I am looking to the Orange Bowl game next Thursday against Penn State. I turned on the porch light and saw that we got a dusting of snow on the ground. Great to FaceTime with the kids again today, looks like we have plans to gather again this weekend! We’ll need to go out tomorrow and do a little grocery shopping so that I can whip up some Chinese comfort for this weekend. I hope that the Chinese supermarket have something. It is kind of sad that a big supermarket like that has supply chain issues. The verse of the day is, “to put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires” (Ephesians 4:22). We need to daily set aside our old self because it is corrupted by deceitful desires. Thanks be to God for grace and the new self.
1 January 2025
Happy New Year! Now I surprised myself was able to recall how to create this new page. Today is a exciting for football with three CFP with three new year's day bowl games. Call me crazy but I think Texas will be playing Notre Dame on January 20th. We'll see as the day goes on. First up is the the Peach Bowl between the Texas Long Horns and the Arizona State Sun Devils. Not exactly game food, but I ate a delicious fried cod salad for lunch. I was a happy campers all warm and cozy wearing the wearable hooded fleece blanket Rob and Andrea gifted me for Christmas. I love the mindfulness of this gift. Oh wow, I was surprised how close the game was Texas 39 Arizona 31 in double OT. I made myself turkey fried rice for game two, the Rose Bowl. I'll be rooting for the Ohio State Buckeyes over the Oregon Ducks. Game two turned out to be super boring one sided game in favor of the Buckeyes, the final score was Ohio State 41 Oregon 21. I heard earlier in the day about the terrorists attack in New Orleans and the eventual postponing of the Sugar Bowl. But didn't want to dwell on the aftermath of a ISIS terrorist attack by an American citizen that is an U.S. Army Veteran from Texas no less, the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.
