Celebrating a life well-lived

My cousin's husband died on Tuesday. He had several heart attacks earlier in the year. We had talked with him in April at my uncle's funeral mass. My husband and I had our baby granddaughter with us and she flipped things on the floor, a toy, her sock and he retrieved them. She dropped a cheerio or two on the church floor. As my husband was cleaning up, my cousin's husband said, "Don't worry. The rats will eat em." Made me laugh. We will get together next week to celebrate his sense of humor, his love of life, a life well-lived. I know when I go on, I want people to celebrate my life as I have had a life full of happiness and joy. My husband and I cooked dinner and visited with my dad yesterday. His energy level was pretty good and we talked and laughed. Each Wednesday visit is a gift since he is 92 years old and has various physical ailments.

May they never be forgotten

Nine people from the same family were lost in the terrible boat tragedy in Missouri. Baby Arya was 1, the same age as my little granddaughter. She and her two brothers, Reece (9) and Evan (7) and their father died. Her grandparents and other family members died also. Her mother and cousin survived. Other victims include a couple celebrating their 45th anniversary, the driver of the vehicle, a retired teacher and his son, a grandmother enjoying a trip with her granddaughter, a couple enjoying a vacation. I am glad to read about them so that they can live on in my heart and never be forgotten. The lives of these men, women and children are to be celebrated for their unique personalities and accomplishments. MY thoughts are with them and their friends and families.

Duck boat tragedy in Missouri

Table Rock Lake in Missouri was calm when the duck boat set off for a trip around the island. Suddenly a storm blew in churning up 5' waves. The boat was swamped and sank. 31 people were aboard, the captain, a driver, adults and children. 14 people are alive although 2 are in critical condiition. Four are missing. 13 died. 13 people were saved from the Thai cave; at least 13 died in a tragic boat accident. My heart is sad. Thinking about the friends and families of those involved in this terrible accident.

Taking control of my acid reflux/GERD

For the past months, I have had waves of pain in my chest and back and esophagitis from acid reflux. When I visited the clinic in April, my PA suggeted an over the counter acid reducer. It works well as long as I watch my diet. I know what I shouldn't eat--tomatoes, citrus, chocolate, spicy foods, drinks with caffiene, fatty foods, So what should I eat? I researched online and came up with a list--apples, melons, bananas, green veggies (broccoli, asparagus, green beans, celery), brown rice, couscous, chicken, turkey, fish, egg whites. Dairy does not seem to bother my esophagus. My niece is my inspiration. She has food sensitivities, so she maintains a gluten free diet. I encourage myself by thinking of my niece. It is so worthwhile to live a painfree life by watching my diet. And if I lose a bit of weight, there will be less pressure on my LES. I need to walk to try to control stress. My dad's health is failing, and my life has been stress-filled which aggravates the esophagitis.

Saman Gunan--A True Hero

Saman Gunan is a true hero. He sacrificed his life so many others could live. His bravery, courage, selflessness will never be forgotten. You deserve much honor, Saman. Rest in peace.

Each visit is a gift

Today we gathered to celebrate my dad's 92nd birthday. We were a large group--my brother, sister, many of the grandchildren and 2 of the great grandchildren. My dad is battling myelodysplastic syndrome and pulmonary edema. He is old and tired and short of breath. After all he is 92 years old. So I was sad. I went to the farm today to work with Dory, the mini horse as a distraction. I must not have attached her crosstie adequately because Dory became lose. Fortunately I was able to corral her.

Happy ending

The Thai soccer team and their coach have been found on Pattaya Beach. Such a happy day! The team is working on a strategy to get the boys out of the cave and reunited with their families. Thank you, thank you to all the people from around the world who stepped forward to search for the boys.

Praying for a miracle

Hoping to hear the good news that rescuers locate the Thai soccer team and their coach on the elevated area of Pattaya Beach inside the cave today. There is always hope until we learn otherwise. Thesse last 8 days have been full of strife and worry. It was the safe rescue of the Chilean miners many years ago that prompted me to write this blog. I'm praying that in the next few days, the world can celebrate the safe recovery of the soccer team and coach and show the boys'joyous reunion with their families.