Friday, May 31, 2013

Highs -n- Lows Living with the Disease

Friday, May 31st

Yesterday afternoon Christine, Kaylee and I drove up to a lake house in Annandale. We took the back roads and saw places I hadn't seen before...really nice little trip.

Paul and I will have to take a weekend and go for a ride...he'd enjoy it also :-)

While on the road...I had some pain or pressure in my chest...it lasted for awhile...I was alittle worried about it but didn't say anything.

Before I left yesterday afternoon I got a call from Milestone...Grandma Gloria's leg has another open wound on it...so I'll have to take her in to see a wound care specialist.  Hope she cooperates this time :-). Everyday is so different...

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When Our Faith Wavers

Read | James 1:1-8

The Bible warns against wavering faith. This is the attitude of someone who goes from feeling certain that God will answer a prayer to merely hoping that He might (or becoming convinced that He won’t). Of course, since we’re human, we all experience periods of doubt. But what Scripture warns against is a lifestyle of spiritual vacillation.

Wavering can have many causes. For instance, one might fail to see the Lord at work in a situation. Or he might worry that trusting Jesus in a particular predicament conflicts with human reasoning. Another believer, focusing on circumstances rather than on God, may allow feelings to overcome faith.

A person who is “driven and tossed by the wind” (James 1:6) may lose confidence in the Lord and find his spiritual growth stunted. Such a believer can become a “double-minded man” (v. 8) because even as he prays, he tends to jump ahead of the Lord’s timing to manipulate a situation for his own desired outcome. When a Christian pays attention to his doubts in this way, he will often make wrong decisions that prove costly. And then, after all the maneuvering, he will frequently end up dissatisfied with the results and bothered by his lack of peace. What’s even worse, his faith may diminish.

Wavering is dangerous, so believers must develop confidence in the Lord. In Mark 11:24, Jesus says, “All things for which you pray and ask, believe that you have received them, and they will be granted you.” The closest we get to perfect faith while on earth is the ability to trust that what we ask in God’s will is as good as done...
Another great day!

Thursday, May 30, 2013

Highs -n- Lows Living with the Disease

Thursday, May 30th

Someone once told me that weather can affect your joints and swelling...I'm not sure if that is true.
Yesterday, my body was swollen and hurting.  I was also exhausted.  Not sure why. I didn't do anything different...I tried to get a nap in but couldn't fall asleep...I think it could be the medication but if it is the medication why doesn't it affect me the same everyday???  To this extreme...

I continue to work at my spring cleaning...not even close to being done. :-) so much to do...

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How to Advance through Adversity

Read | Romans 8:16-18

When difficulties arise, how can you be sure you’re responding in a way that would please the Lord? Here is an acrostic, based on the word adversity, that suggests the steps you should take:

Accept the events of your life as part of how God equips you.
Decide to follow Jesus’ ways of responding to trials.
Veer to neither the right nor left from the path of obedience.
Expect the Holy Spirit to help you grow through your difficulties.
Remember how the Lord has helped you in the past.
Set your face like flint (Isa. 50:7) to endure the trial without wavering.
Invest additional time in your relationship with God.
Trust the Lord, especially when you do not understand.
Yearn to be made ready for the return of our Savior.

Adversity will either harden or soften us. Some people become hardhearted and resist God in times of adversity, but those who know how to respond are softened by troubles and broken. But when it is of the Lord, brokenness is a positive thing that prepares, equips, energizes, and empowers us as children of the King. We will come to know the fellowship of Jesus’ sufferings and proclaim with Paul, “For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all” (2 Cor. 4:17 NIV).

Let us take as our position the words of James 1:2-4, which says to “consider it all joy” when we encounter trials, because such testing of our faith produces endurance and perfects us.

Another great day!

Wednesday, May 29, 2013

Highs -n- Lows Living with the Disease

Wednesday, May 29th

Sometimes I do the dumbest things...my brain just isn't working the same as it had in the past...I wish it did.

I talked to the doctor about it at my last appointment and she said it is most likely the combination of medication I take...
Dr Danning said it is something that I would have to put up with because I need the medication to keep the disease in check.  I know others get frustrated with some of the things I do... :-(

At my appointment she also noticed that my hands, neck, and face were getting redder...so she is changing my meds to hopefully get the symptoms back in check.  Before starting my new medication I first have to tapper off the Amitriptylin...
Maybe with this change of medication my brain will work better and the other symptoms would go away...

They took more blood to check to see if I had any changes...

I haven't heard how my CT results were...I figured if they saw something they would say something...

I also didn't call the Dr about the bloody discharge...I figured if it was anything they would see it in my CT scan and maybe it's my hemorrhoids acting up...

I forget to ask questions and tell the Dr things when I'm in the Drs office. My brain goes blank...so frustrating.

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Advancing Through Adversity

Read | Job 5:7-11

“Why is this happening to me?” When we are bewildered by life, we cry out to anyone who will listen, “What is the point of trials?” Our thoughts become confused, our emotions chaotic, and our steps slowed. Scripture answers these questions. In response to “Why,” it tells us that we live in a fallen world filled with sinful people, that even the redeemed struggle with sin, and that Satan—the “ruler of this world”—has great influence here. No wonder why trials happen!

But there is something else that we are wise to consider—namely, what is God’s purpose in our adversity? It could be that He desires to get our attention because we have ignored His other signals. Or it could be to keep our attention on Him. When the Israelites lived in the desert, it must have seemed a great trial to have no food left at the end of each day. But God knew that if He provided more than one day’s supply at a time, the people would stop looking to Him. This “trial” kept their attention on their Provider.

Adversity can also be a tool to remind us of God’s great love for us. We can become so used to His love that we don’t appreciate it until we hit a bump. What’s more, hardships can help us to know the Lord in a deeper way. To experience Him as our comfort requires that there be a need for comfort. Or perhaps He wants to lead us into self-examination. We tend to ignore our wanderings from God’s ways. When halted by an obstacle, we have time to discover the wrong turns we’ve made.

Whatever the reason for your trial, know that God has purpose in adversity and that He has allowed it for your good (Rom. 8:28).

Another great day!

Tuesday, May 28, 2013

Highs -n- Lows Living with the Disease

Tuesday, May 28th

Today is another dreary day.  Most people would hate weather like this, expecally for long periods of time, but this is a little easier on me.  I have problems with UV light.  During the spring and summer the days are longer and UV light is stronger.  So when it's cloudy like this it filters the rays some...it's still there but not as strong.

I also love the sunshine but I know I need to be very cautious when out in the sunlight or when light comes through the car windows or house windows.

This morning I plan on calling my doctor to see what my problem might be with the bloody discharge...it's not a large amount but I still have some and it's been for several days.  I've been trying to figure out where I could be bleeding from.  ???

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Facing Adversity

Read | Hebrews 12:1-2

When a child hurts, our focus is to restore comfort quickly. We remove obstacles so that a toddler will have a clear path to walk. And many parents seek to minimize frustration for school-age children by helping with homework—sometimes offering more assistance than necessary. While wanting to ease children’s discomfort is understandable, we may inadvertently convey a subtle message that obstacles and pain are to be eliminated at all costs. This viewpoint can get carried into adulthood, and unfortunately, it is a harmful one.

Difficulties are a part of life, and if we expect otherwise, we will be consistently disappointed. Then disappointment, if allowed to remain, can turn us away from the Lord. A lot of time can be wasted trying to avoid trials when we could be trusting God for the future. We also expend energy and prayer power seeking to get out of our tough situations instead of asking the Lord how He wants us to respond. Most importantly, God does not view adversity as the tragedy we interpret it to be. As a result, our thinking is in opposition to His.

God sees redemptive value in our trials. Jesus’ suffering and death on the cross prove the mighty spiritual work God can accomplish through adversity. He uses difficulties to advance our spiritual life and to achieve His great purposes for us. Rather than “set-backs” in our lives, our struggles are actually opportunities for spiritual advancement.

None of us enjoy trouble, but in this sin-sick world, sorrow and hardships are guaranteed. Let us surrender our thinking and ask to have the mind of Christ, who trusted the Father’s ways even unto death on the cross.

Another great day!

Monday, May 27, 2013

Highs -n- Lows Living with the Disease

Monday, May 27th

I hope everyone is having a safe Memorial Weekend!

Relaxing this morning.  I am planning to continue with my spring cleaning this week...I'm hoping to get it done soon.  It would be nice.

This afternoon the kids and Kaylee are coming over to eat ribs, chicken, stuffed mushrooms and other goodies. :-)

This years mushroom hunting has been a great success...Paul found most of them the 20 pounds...so far...we have more areas to search yet.  Hopefully we will have nicer weather so we can get back out to search...

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Life Would Be Great If Only...
"For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form, and you have been given fullness in Christ, who is the head over every power and authority."  
Colossians 2:9-10
 
What do quadriplegics (people whose hands and legs are paralyzed) daydream about? Running a marathon? Ballroom dancing? Climbing a mountain?

Even able-bodied people look at others who seem more attractive, smarter, richer, healthier, and who get all the breaks in life. In comparison, our minor defects begin to look like deformities. Thankfully, the Bible has good advice for people prone to compare. Paul tells us we have been given "fullness in Christ." In other words, we are complete in Him. We have everything. We lack nothing. There's no need to compare. Once we comprehend this truth, our so-called defects become reminders of how "full" we are -- because we have "fullness in Christ." The inferiority complex releases its grip. We become content.

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In what ways do you feel incomplete, inadequate, or less than you had hoped? Rather than seeing these as insufficiencies, realize you are lacking in nothing. Why? Because Christ dwells in you.   Bask in that knowledge for a few, quiet moments and feel yourself relax into contentedness.
 
Lord, help me to keep from drumming up "if only" scenarios in my mind. Fill my thoughts with satisfaction in You and in whom You have fashioned me to be. Amen

Another great day!

Sunday, May 26, 2013

Highs -n- Lows Living with the Disease

Sunday, May 26th

Today we are heading down to Iowa for a picnic with family and to stop at the cemetery.  We try to get down at least once a year.  It's been raining a lot.  Hopefully it clears off by the time we get there. :-)

On our way back we are stopping in Faribault to visit Grandma Gloria.

The last few days I've had some bloody discharge...not sure what this means or why I would have it.
I'm going to call the Dr on Tuesday to let her know.

Yesterday, I was cleaning and by the end of the day I was really sore...I guess I need to slow down and not push it. 

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"But Samuel replied: "Does the Lord delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the voice of the Lord? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams."        1 Samuel 15:22
 
Elizabeth Elliott tells the story of a little girl who, instead of doing her chores, decided she should spend that hour practicing on the piano. She sat proudly plunking away, "Yes, Jesus Loves Me." Her mother called from the other room, reminding the child of her duties; but the girl continued to fill the house with the melody of praise. Was her piano playing rewarded? Not at all. Songs of praise lose their meaning when offered out of disobedience.
 
We are not unlike the child at the piano. Like Saul, who disobeyed God, keeping the best of the Amalekites' oxen and sheep to enhance his sacrifices to the Lord, we try to justify our disobedience with a show of religion. We remain in an evil trade, thinking that we can then earn more to give to the Lord. We hold on to a small but corrupt habit with the excuse that we balance it out with faithful attendance at prayer meeting and choir rehearsal.
 
The truth is, the Amalekites' sheep and cattle were a better breed. Those animals would have made for a "better" sacrifice. For that matter, the child's rendition of "Jesus Loves Me" at any other time would have been sweet music to her mother's ears. In the same way, giving more to the Lord is a wonderful thing and faithful attendance at prayer meeting is to be admired -- but all of it is ram fat when offered through disobedience.
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Be quiet for a moment and let the Spirit scrutinize your offerings of late to the Lord. What is He whispering to you right now?          
 
Lord, obedience is much more of a holy thing to offer You than anything else, no matter how pleasing it appears or how much sacrifice was involved. Help me to remember this. Amen
 
Another great day!

Saturday, May 25, 2013

Highs -n-Lows Living with the Diseases

Saturday, May 23td

I hope everyone has a safe and fun Memorial Day weekend!

My plans are to continue my spring cleaning...I still have a lot to do...will keep plugging away until I'm done. :-) I picked up a couple of mattresses for the new captains bed I bought for the grandkids bedroom.  The bed has a trundle bed and drawers underneath.  It's a perfect fit.

This morning I slept in until 7:30...must have been tired.  When stepping down from the bed it felt like pins or needles poking the bottom of my feet.  I got up, took my meds and I'm waiting for the pills to kick in so I can continue with my cleaning.
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A Good Kind of Anger
"'In your anger do not sin': Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry.". Ephesians 4:26

Anger at least keeps the problem on the front burner, propelling us into action. And that may not be all bad. When Ephesians 4:26 states, "In your anger do not sin," it's clear not all anger is wrong. Strong emotions open the door to ask the hard questions: Does life make sense? Is God good?

Sometimes the anger we express toward God can be an upside-down way of trusting Him. It's the dark side of trust but trust nonetheless. If your soul is in turmoil, all God is looking for is a thin thread of trust. Then God is able to work in your life. But only if you take your anger to -- not away from -- Him.

Lord God, help me to remember that You are big enough to handle my honest feelings. If I'm angry or hurt, help me to express it to You without showing disrespect.

Another great day!

Friday, May 24, 2013

Highs -n-Lows Living with the Disease

Friday, May 24th

I woke up to a beautiful day...sun shining and cooler temps. Love this weather :-)

I had my doctor appointment yesterday. It went really well...she is starting me on some new medicine to help with my symptoms but before I can start the meds I have to come off another. I will start my tapering today.

I have been thinking...
I know everyone has a time when they must learn to lean on someone else for support. It is hard for me to do that...I've always been the one others have leaned on...

Someone suggested to me that perhaps the Lord was asking me to learn to accept help instead of provide it. That maybe he wanted me to help someone who was not used to providing help and comfort the oppourtunity to do so for me. I am not what I can do for others. I am not only worthy of being helpful. I am worthy of being on the recieving end of the blessings that others can give to me. My faith is not weak because my body is. My capacity for love and compassion is increased by my suffering. I know that is true.   I cannot be truly compassionate to anothers suffering unless I can understand what they are going through. I hope that it is understood that even though my body is weak, that my faith is not. It is not a sign of lack of Faith to question God, it is a sign that I believe in Him. I continue to ask myself what I am supposed to be learning from this.

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Selfish Christianity

Read | John 6:22-27

Think honestly about this question: Which interests you more who Jesus is or what He can do for you? I'm afraid that too many of us are more concerned about what the Lord can give us than we are about getting to know who He is.

But this is nothing new Jesus had the same problem when He walked on earth. The crowds often sought Him out for what He could do for them. Even though their needs were quite often legitimate, Christ knew their motives.

There is a fine line between selfishly trying to use the Lord to get what we want and humbly coming to Him with our needs and struggles. Some of the issues we bring to Him are so pressing and urgent in our minds that our desire for Him to take action in the way we want becomes greater than our willingness to submit to His will. At times, what we call is really a demanding spirit.

We must remember that our earthly needs will come to an end, but Jesus Christ will remain forever. If our prayers have dealt only with presenting our requests to the Lord, then we are missing a great opportunity to get to know the One with whom we are going to spend all eternity. Lets invest time in pursuing intimacy with the great God who created us. Then we can enjoy all the benefits of that relationship forever.

How much of your communion with God is devoted to your needs even legitimate ones? Are you spending any time getting to know the Lord? Although God delights in our prayers and tells us to pray about everything, He also wants us to come to Him just because we enjoy being with Him.

Another great day!

Thursday, May 23, 2013

Highs -n- Lows Living with the Disease

Thursday, May 23rd

Kaylee stayed overnight last night. I slept upstairs with her...woke up once.

I'm sore again this morning.  Dr appointment is at 2pm today with Dr Danning, my Rheumatologist.  :-) looking for some relief...right side is very sensitive to touch...

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Why We Miss God’s Will

Read | 1 John 5:13-15

The Father has provided the Holy Spirit to teach His children about His will for their lives (John 14:26). Why, then, do we have difficulty understanding what the plan is?

We make decisions based on emotion. When life presses in on us, our instinct is to move away from the source of stress or pain. At such times, our need to remove difficulties and turmoil from our life can take precedence over the Lord’s plan. We figure He could not possibly want us to feel this way, so we take action and then hope that we are in His will. Our emphasis is on ourselves rather than on God’s purposes.

We focus only on the immediate. Many times we come to the Lord troubled about the choices we or our loved ones are facing. We do not see how this situation could possibly be His will. Our short-term focus prevents us from seeing God’s long-term purposes.

We conduct a superficial search. In our desire for an answer, we can fall into a trap and treat finding God’s will like a checklist—read the Bible, pray, fast, serve, worship, give. Then, satisfied with what we have done, we press the Lord for His answer now. But we have neglected to give God the time and stillness needed for us to hear from Him (Ps. 46:10). Investing time with our Creator is a necessity, not a luxury, and listening to Him without distractions is essential.

How much Bible study is required to find out what our heavenly Father wants for us? What amount of prayer? What quantity of time? The answer is simple: Whatever it takes to hear from God. He will answer. The question is, Will we wait?

Another great day!

Wednesday, May 22, 2013

Highs -n- Lows Living with the Disease

Wednesday, May 22nd

Life changes everyday and some days it throws you a big curve ball...you learn to pick up the pieces and move on no matter how bad it hurts or hard it is.  I again have the extreme pain on my right side and swelling all over my body. Only one more day and I have my dr appointment.  Looking forward to getting some relief.

Another great day!

Tuesday, May 21, 2013

Highs -n- Lows Living with the Disease

Tuesday, May 20th

Today Kaylee and I are taking our weekly trip to Faribault to see grandmas. 

I haven't heard the results of my CT scan yet.  They continue to look for cancer.  They say DM is brought on by cancer or within a few years I may get cancer...so they will watch me closely for cancer.

Woke up with swelling and pain on my right side.  Yes, again. :-)

Yesterday afternoon my swelling increased and I was in extreme pain...Extremely Sore.  I have an appointment with my Rheumatologist on Thursday. 
Hopefully she can help...she may have to increase my Prednisone again to get things under control.

I started the spring cleaning yesterday but it went real slow because of the continued swelling and pain. I will continue cleaning room by room...until I get it done. Slow and Steady lol

I would like to go back to being me, as I was before!!!!  If I didn't feel this way every now and then I guess I wouldn't be human.  Yup, I am Human and I feel this way expecally when I hurt or don't feel well. :-(

If I don't take the meds to reduce the inflammation in my body or in my liver then cirrhosis can develop and that only results in a liver transplant or a life of really poor painful health.

Prednisone, when taken for more than a week or two, completely takes over for your adrenal system. Basically your adrenal system goes on vacation and forgets it has a job. Even if your body one day no longer needs to be on Prednisone... you cannot just quit because your own adrenal system is out of town and will not jump back into action the next day and hence you can go into adrenal shock which can cause death. I think our adrenals like being on vacation and will fight to have to go back to work and this is why the weaning process for my medication...the dr tell you that it can take a few years because they want to wean you so slowly that you do not suffer the "withdrawl" effects. These include severe exhaustion and muscle weakness and pain. 

Today is a new day and I will have peace that passes all understanding...the peace that God gives. Amen

Another great day!

Monday, May 20, 2013

Highs -n- Lows Living with the Disease

Monday, May 20th

I had another great night sleep.  Investing in the sleep number bed has helped me a lot.  In any other bed, I toss and turn and wake up hurting.  I am so thankful for a great night sleep.  What a  difference it makes in my day.  :-)

Today, I'm going to start to tackle the spring cleaning. Slow and steady that's how I'm going to tackle it.  Slow and steady.  LOL

Kaylee and I watch the story of the tortoise and the hare.  The tortoise is going to win the race slow and steady that's how I'm going to win it...slow and steady.
It's stuck in my head.  :-)

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"'How many loaves do you have?' he asked. 'Go and see.' When they found out, they said, 'Five - and two fish.'"        Mark 6:38
 
Do you ever feel as if you're only one person who can only do so much, especially in the face of some pressing need? We can all find excuses to sidestep a problem. We can say we're the wrong person for the job; we can't do it alone; we have other priorities; God hasn't called us to meet the need; or the ever-ready excuse, "I only have limited resources."
 
That's the excuse the disciples reached for in Mark 6 when Jesus told them to give a huge crowd something to eat. They said to Him, "Look, Lord, we only have five loaves and two fish." Well, you know what Jesus did with that excuse. He turned it into a miracle of multiplication, and before they knew it, the disciples ended up helping to feed five thousand.
 
God laughs in the face of limited resources. In fact, He often uses limitations on our resources to strengthen and test our faith as we step out and believe He will supply the need.
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That's something to remember if today you are faced with a need, a project, a problem with which you feel bound and gagged because of your lack of resources. Remember that when you roll up your sleeves and dig into the task God has put before you, your resources will expand. Out of nowhere you will find you have the strength, you will see you have the time, and if money is the problem, then watch to see how God will supply what's needed.
 
God of limitlessness, I confess that I'm often caught up in seeing the limits rather than the possibilities. Open my eyes, but more importantly, open my heart that I might see and believe.
 
Another great day!

Sunday, May 19, 2013

Highs -n- Lows Living with the Disease

Sunday, May 19th

My Life's Intention Is To Be Happy
I work hard to embrace my fears...we need to teach our children to do the same.  I am at peace and lucky to have the beautiful family and life I have been given, with no regrets.  Whatever lay in front of me...I will be able to handle :-)

This morning I had the discharge from my eyes again...when we got home after church I noticed under my eyes and In the corner of my eyes the mattery discharge...I'm pretty sure it's from the medication...before going to church I had the puffiness under my eyes and I think those are the pockets that the discharge comes from...I see the eye Dr soon and will be sure to bring it to his attention.

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No one is born with any ability that is fully developed. Most skills are developed slowly and incrementally.

As you follow God and He prepares you to pursue His purpose for your life, you may be discouraged at how slowly you progress. But stick with it. True gifts, skills, and talents are worth developing to the point of mastery. When you have mastered something, you no longer have to struggle at it. You may work at it, but the sense of struggle is gone.

Another great day!

Saturday, May 18, 2013

Highs -n- Lows Living with the Disease

Saturday, May 18th

Haven't heard anything from my Dr. yet. He should have received my results from my CT scan today.  They say no news is good news. :-)

For about a year I have been battling with pain, swelling, loss of strength, fatigue, shortness of breath, weight gain and a lot of itching. After many doctors, lots of donated blood, medication, and other treatments, I am waiting to have my diagnosis confirmed from the neurologist at the U of M.  I am hoping once it's confirmed I will get the treatment that will slow down the damage being done to my muscles and get rid of the other symptoms.  MAYBE I'LL GET THE GREEN LIGHT TO GO OUTSIDE AND ENJOY THE BEAUTIFUL WEATHER :-). I love the sunshine and being out in it.

Attitude is ssssoo important in this war with DM. Lupus or the other autoimmune disease, like DM, they are checking to see if I have.

I will keep laughing and doing what makes me happy.  Spending time with family and friends.

Another great day!

Friday, May 17, 2013

Highs -n- Lows Living with the Disease

Friday, May 17

This morning we woke up to rain, we needed it. Sounds like we are supposed to get rain through Tuesday. Hopefully it will cut the fire risk.

Today I need to run to pick up my medicine in Winona.  I am completely out of several of the meds I take daily

Yesterday it took us two hours to get to the U of M and only five minutes for the CT scan. My Dr will get the results on his desk today.
I only have my muscle biopsy left.  My biopsy is scheduled for June 13th.

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How to Reach Your Goals

Read | 1 Samuel 17:24-47

In order to become the people God wants us to be and achieve the work He has planned for us to do, we need to ask ourselves several questions.

l. Do I have a clear picture of who God wants me to become? Try writing down where you believe the transforming work of God is bringing you. It is important to be able to visualize what we will be like and the improvements that will come about once we have accomplished our goals.

2. Do I have a consuming desire to meet the goals God has given me? Passion is essential in motivating us to make the harder changes the Lord requires—and to achieve all the tasks He has given us. Our degree of commitment will be revealed by our motivation and sense of urgency about meeting our goals.

3. Is my confidence resting in my relationship with Jesus and His promises to me? (See Philippians 4:13.) It is valuable to develop a habit of remembering past times when the Lord helped us. Without confidence in Him, we may become discouraged when we meet obstacles.

4. Do I know my course of action? The key word here is action. To move forward requires having a strategy that points us in the direction God wants us to go.

5. Have I established a calendar of events and deadlines for meeting the goals? Responding to God’s direction in a timely fashion is essential in order to make progress.

Many people cannot answer most of these questions positively. If that’s the case for you, do not let yourself be discouraged. Instead, recognize the opportunity before you: the Lord already knew what you would answer—and He is waiting to help.

Another great day!

Thursday, May 16, 2013

Highs -n- Lows Living with the Disease

Thursday, May 16th

Today is the CT scan.  I pray they don't find any cancer...
We are leaving at 9:00am this morning to start the prep for test at 11am.
No food until after tests...

My hand grip is weaker and they get sore...slow changes taking place...

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The Advantages of Goal Setting

Read | Colossians 3:23-24

If you’ve ever been locked out of your house, you know how important keys are. For believers, goal setting is a key that opens the door to Christlike living and affects us in a number of ways. Let’s think about five changes we can look for.

1. Excitement is renewed. When we are not clear on our direction, enthusiasm wanes. Excitement comes as we strive toward our goals and see the Lord at work transforming us.

2. Direction replaces drifting. Without goals, we lose sight of where we’re headed and instead begin to drift. Complacency replaces passion, and we start allowing justification to enter our thought process—such as, This is just who I am. Goals help us focus on who we are becoming.

3. Excellence replaces mediocrity. Without goals, we start living a humdrum “don’t bother me” way of life. Working with focus counters this mindset.

4. Our attitudes will improve. When we don’t like the choices we’re making, our tendency can be to criticize others. But when we are following God’s plan, we will feel better about ourselves and relate more positively to those around us.

5. Life will be rewarding. If we live for ourselves, we will be disappointed. Setting godly goals helps us wisely use the time, energy, resources, and talents that the Lord has given us. Life is a gift, and we are to be good stewards of it. That is difficult to do in the absence of goals.

It will be easier to identify distractions and evaluate opportunities if you compare them to established goals. Choices then become clearer, and you will be able to reap the benefits of goal setting: enthusiasm, direction, excellence, and

Wednesday, May 15, 2013

Highs -n- Lows Living with the Disease

Wednesday, May 15th

Gloria wasn't having a good day yesterday :-( we hadn't seen her for a couple of weeks...was hoping for a good day...Kaylee still seems to brightens her day and so many others...I plan on heading over again next week...hopefully it will be a better day...

I continue to have the tingling in my legs and buttocks...last night my left arm started tingling again...

Tomorrow I go up for my CT scan...
I have to be in for prep at 11am and test is at 1pm...we will have to leave at 9...it takes us 2 hours to get to the U of M, get parked and to my appointment on time...

I a call for my biopsy appointment...they decided to do the biopsy on my right arm...appointment is on June 13 at 1:30pm...

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Zephaniah 3:17

You are God’s masterpiece, and He has given you His Word as a testimony to the love and joy He has for you. Zephaniah 3:17 says, “The LORD your God is in your midst, a victorious warrior. He will exult over you with joy, He will be quiet in His love, He will rejoice over you with shouts of joy.”

God rejoices over you and is transforming your life to reflect His goodness to others. He has an awesome plan for your life. You are not yet what you will be when you step into the eternal presence of God (1 Cor. 13:12; 1 John 3:2). Until that time, God is patiently molding and shaping you into the image of His Son. Therefore, you never have a reason to give up (Gal. 6:9). You are not alone! Jesus is with you, cheering you on to victory. He is at your side to strengthen and encourage you. When you fix your eyes on Him and not on your circumstances, you will begin to see life differently. Instead of thinking negatively, the Holy Spirit will teach you to think about the things of God—pure thoughts that honor Jesus Christ.

God also makes it clear that He loves you with an everlasting love and has pledged to never leave or forsake you (Deut. 31:6, 8; John 14:18; Heb. 13:5). He walks with you through disappointment, and when you confess your sins, “He is faithful and righteous to forgive [your] sins and to cleanse [you] from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9). He has seen the finished portrait! While on your own you can do nothing, He knows that through Christ you can and will succeed (Phil. 1:6; 4:13). This does not mean that you won’t suffer or feel pain. Jesus endured both, and yet He did not give up. He knew that in order to complete His mission He would have to endure until the end, and He wanted more than anything else to accomplish the Father’s will.

How could He possibly bear the weight of all our sins and still remain victorious? Because He had an eternal perspective (Heb. 12:2). Long before it happened, Jesus saw the Resurrection as a completed fact (Matt. 20:18, 19)—that after three days, He would rise from the grave to walk in victory over sin and death (1 Cor. 15:55–57). You can walk in confidence and triumph because Jesus is your example and His Spirit lives in you. Like colors on an artist’s palette, God can work through every situation in your life—even the one you are facing right now—to bring you closer to Himself (Jer. 29:11–13; Rom. 8:28).

Another great day!

Tuesday, May 14, 2013

Highs -n- Lows Living with the Disease

Tuesday, May 14th

This morning Kaylee and I are heading over to Faribault to eat lunch with Grandma Gloria...we are bringing over her Mother's Day gift...:-)
Grandma Faye is up north visiting her sister for a week...it good for her to get out...

I woke up with a headache this morning...checked my blood sugar and it was 87...
I continue to have tingling in my buttocks and down both legs...

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Effective Witnesses

Read | Philippians 2:12-16

Some of the most effective witnesses are those who have gone through painful, trying circumstances. Consider how the gospel has spread in parts of the world that are poor, oppressed, and troubled. Or think about the way that you respond to the triumphant stories of former criminals, abuse victims, and religious prisoners. God’s power is manifest in man’s weakest moments.

Whether believers develop into stronger witnesses as a result of difficulties depends on their response to crisis. Many people make the mistake of focusing on the will of man instead of God’s sovereignty. Then they find it impossible to believe that the Lord will bring positive results from their pain.

Those who rise above their circumstances understand that God uses every experience for good (Rom. 8:28). To trust that principle, we must realize whatever we experience is under the authority of a kind, loving Father. Paul’s time in prison yielded better and more abundant fruit than he could have produced any other way (Phil. 1:13). He spread the gospel to the most elite Roman soldiers because he was chained to one after another every day for years. As we turn our attention to Christ, He reveals opportunities for impacting people with the gospel. These are often chances we wouldn’t have had apart from trying circumstances.

You are always in God’s hand. Focusing upon His sovereign will and the good He has in store for you is not easy in hard times. I understand. But I also know that God never allows anything to touch us that He will not turn to our benefit and the good of His kingdom.

Another great day!

Monday, May 13, 2013

Highs -n- Lows Living with the Disease

Monday, May 13th

My CT scan was rescheduled from 1:30pm today to 1pm on Thursday of this week...

I am unable to pull out the words to communicate with others...I hope people understand that I can't retrieve words and I have no control over it...I may say something using the wrong words and after saying it I realize what I've done and become upset with myself because that wasn't the word or phrase I was meaning to say...
I hope others won't make fun of it or get upset with me because of this symptom of the medicine or disease.
Its hard for me to accept it because I've always been able to communicate well.
Another change is when I'm losing or misplacing things...I hope and pray they are able to get both of these changes under control soon...

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"For the Lord is the Spirit, and wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom."

2 Corinthians 3:17

God's Spirit give us freedom. Never forget that. Freedom is one of the tests as to whether something is from God. Of course, it's a certain kind of freedom. It's freedom to love, to serve from the heart. If we do not feel free in our service, or in anything else we do, we need to double-check whether we're operating in the Spirit, or whether the Holy Spirit is leading us to do that thing. When the Holy Spirit leads, the freedom we feel is a sign that he is present.

—Diane Eble, author of Abundant Gifts: A Daybook of Grace-Filled Devotions

Another great day!

Sunday, May 12, 2013

Highs -n- Lows Living with the Disease

Sunday, May 12th

Happy Mother's Day!
Being a mother and grandmother makes my life complete...thank you Jesse and Christine for bringing us 3 + beautiful grandchildren into our lives...I love you all very much...

This morning we started our day at around 7:30...we had breakfast at ihop and then spent 5 1/2 hours on the road returning from Oklahoma...
We always enjoy spending time with the kids and grandkids...

The next few weeks I will be having additional tests to find out what I have or at least confirming my diagnosis and how the symptoms will be treated...I leave everything in God's hands...
:-)
I was asked how I could be so calm while I continue to wait for the answers and my answer was that I have no control over the outcome of my situation...I can not change it but I can change how I look at it...I will enjoy each day no matter what my situation is...

Another great day!

Saturday, May 11, 2013

Highs -n- Lows Living with the Disease

Saturday, May 11th

Yesterday I received 7 calls from the U of M but every time I picked up to answer I couldn't hear them...not sure if they could hear me...I wasn't able to retrieve my messages either...so frustrated with the phone...
This morning I will try to get the nurse...

I slept alot better last night. I didn't wake up to an aching body but I still have cracking bones and swelling...

We are heading back to MN today at around 3:30pm to break up our ride home...

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Do You Honor Your Mother?

Read | Exodus 20:12

Respecting mothers and fathers is so important to the Lord that one of His Ten Commandments relates to parents. On this Mother’s Day weekend, it seems fitting to outline ways to honor Mom.

Show unconditional love. Honor begins with accepting a person no matter what. And that means Mom deserves love and respect whether or not you agree with her parenting style. So if you have been measuring her against other women or perhaps by your own preferences of what a mother should be and do, recognize that you’ve set an unfair standard, and determine to treat her kindly.

Be sympathetic. Mom isn’t perfect, and she’s under a lot of pressure. Someone calculated that it would take a six-figure salary to hire help for the various tasks mothers perform: driver, laundress, cook, nurse, etc. Mom doesn’t expect a paycheck, but we can be understanding when she gets sick or asks for help. And remember, she also needs alone time and an occasional reprieve. The Lord has given her an awesome responsibility—one that doesn’t end when her children leave home. See that she receives your attention and compassion.

Listen. Your mother is smarter than you know. She has insight and perspective that can guide you well, particularly if she is a godly woman. God has placed her in your life to look out for you, so be wise enough to listen.

One day a year is simply not enough to show any person his or her value in our sight. Our mothers should know that they can count on our unconditional love, our listening ear when they offer guidance, and our sympathy when they express needs. Let’s make every day a mother’s day.

Another great day!

Friday, May 10, 2013

Highs -n- Lows Living with the Disease

Friday, May 10th

Woke up with body aches all over again this morning and cracking joints.

My eyes are bloodshot, matter in my left eye and have blurry vision...I have an eye Dr appointment the first week in June...

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The Service of Motherhood

Read | Philippians 2:1-11

Children are a gift from the Lord (Ps. 127:3-5). As a result, motherhood is a great honor and privilege. Yet it is also synonymous with servanthood. Every day women are called upon to selflessly meet the needs of their families. Whether they are nursing a baby late at night, spending their time and money on less-than-grateful teenagers, or preparing meals, moms continuously put others before themselves.

Sometimes this constant serving can be exhausting and even discouraging— particularly for a first-time mother. But you can take real encouragement from Jesus. One of the best examples of gracious servanthood is found in John 13:3-16. By kneeling to wash His disciples’ feet, the Lord showed that the key to genuine leadership is humility. And it is humility that leads to eternal reward.

Unless you are willing to stoop down and get your hands dirty, you will miss the real riches of motherhood. By dying to your own desires and pouring your life into someone else’s, you become like Christ and create a godly legacy that will carry on for generations to come. What greater blessing could one hope for? Of course, the motivation for serving others should not be to reap benefits, but when we follow God’s plan for our life, that’s what happens.

In giving us children, God places us in a position of both leadership and service. He calls us to give up our lives for the sake of others—to abandon our own desires and put our child’s interests first. Yet according to His perfect design, it is through this selflessness that we can become truly fulfilled.

Another great day!

Thursday, May 9, 2013

Highs -n- Lows Living with the Disease

Thursday, May 9th

Last night I felt nauseous...

My face and neck are really red...I don't think the UV face moisturizer and UV make up is working...I will look into some other UV protection for my face and neck. 

Because of the steroids I continue to struggle with cracking of bones, facial hair and gaining weight...so frustrating.

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Faith vs. Reason

Read | Psalm 119:67-72

One of the first things people tend to do in times of hardship is to point a finger, trying to find someone or something to blame for their adversity. If we are hurting in life, certainly it must be someone else’s fault, right?

But more often than not, our attempts to blame others are hollow and fruitless. Sadly, a probable cause of our difficulty tends to go largely unnoticed—namely, ourselves. Although it may hurt our pride to admit, we are frequently to blame for our own adversity.

This is certainly a tough lesson for any believer. Today’s passage reveals David’s own struggle in this very area. However, he reached a point when he realized his own culpability in his turmoil. He cried, “Before I was afflicted I went astray” (Ps. 119:67). That is, he recognized that his affliction was not anyone else’s fault, but rather, it was the result of his own wandering heart and mind.

In this sense, adversity can be a powerful tool in the hands of our heavenly Father. Why would He allow us to fall into such hard times? The answer may be that He desires to teach us the result of our own sin and misdirection. He wants to impress upon our minds the results of our sin. By doing so, He helps us avoid these problems in the future.

That is why David was able to make the rather surprising statement, “It is good for me that I was afflicted” (v. 71). The second part of that verse—”that I may learn Your statutes”—explains the long-term protective benefit. If you are going through adversity, perhaps God is trying to teach you something. Be open to His lesson, and seek to find meaning in your hardship.

Another great day!

Wednesday, May 8, 2013

Highs -n- Lows Living with the Disease

Wednesday, May 8th

We are staying at the Super 8 in Nashville, Tennessee.  The bed was very hard...tossing and turning a lot last night...my body hurts from the pressure on my legs and hips...mostly on my right side...I used the pillow for support and added comfort...didn't help a lot...

Today we decided to visit a couple caves in the area...Lost River Cave and Diamond Caverns...
Lost River Cave was flooded so we were unable to go in to see it...we headed down the road to the Diamond Caverns...as we started down the stairs to the caverns I realize I wasn't going to be able to make it back up...it was really steep...so I stayed up on top while Paul, Joanna and Kris went down...I made the best of the situation and picked up some gifts for the grandkids... :-)

The Dr called and left a message for me to pick up medicine for the tests on Monday...I went into seizures when taking the contract dye for medical procedures before so now I need to take medication before test to prevent any problems...

Heading back towards home tomorrow...

Another great day!

Tuesday, May 7, 2013

Highs -n- Lows Living with the Disease

I'm taking a short trip with Paul, Joanna and Kris...we are cutting the trip so I don't push myself...won't be heading all the way to North Carolina...oh :-(

Not doing too bad driving...I put  something on my window to cut the sun coming in the side window...
My head continues to itch and my face is redder than normal from exposure to the sun...I'm wearing UV moisturizer and UV makeup...thought that would help...

On Monday I head back up to the U of M for more tests...CT scan of chest, abdomen and pelvis...Checking for cancer again...

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The Blessing of Loving Others

Read | 1 Peter 1:22

If we responded simply out of natural impulses, we would probably be nice when people were kind. At other times, though, we’d most likely be vengeful, angry, or hurtful.

Yet Jesus clearly teaches us to love even when the people around us seem unlovable. And He lived out what He taught: Christ loved us enough to die for us while we were still sinners (Rom. 5:8). Surely, by acting out of His strength and with gratitude for what He did, we—His followers—can love others (1 John 3:14).

While it can certainly be challenging to respond to unkindness with love, such godly behavior can lead to great blessing. First, the Father is pleased; this realization should bring His children joy, peace, and a sense of accomplishment. Next, believers ought to feel excitement and anticipation to watch how God will move in the relationship. Finally, there will be an awareness that the Holy Spirit is working from within, enabling divine love to flow through yielded human lives.

John 13:35 tells of another important benefit: Jesus said, “By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” Since unconditional godly love is uncommon in our world, people will notice.

Treating others the way that we want to be treated is what builds the deep, satisfying connections that all people desire. Without significant relationships, life lacks meaning—regardless of how many possessions or acquaintances we may have. So think about the people you come in contact with throughout the week. Are you treating them in the way that Jesus modeled?

Another great day!

Monday, May 6, 2013

Highs -n- Lows Living with the Disease

Monday, May 6th

My right hand has started to become weak and sore...when it hurts I have to stop to rest it...So thankful for what I can do... :-)

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"For the Lord is the Spirit, and wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom."

2 Corinthians 3:17

God's Spirit give us freedom. Never forget that. Freedom is one of the tests as to whether something is from God. Of course, it's a certain kind of freedom. It's freedom to love, to serve from the heart. If we do not feel free in our service, or in anything else we do, we need to double-check whether we're operating in the Spirit, or whether the Holy Spirit is leading us to do that thing. When the Holy Spirit leads, the. freedom we feel is a sign that he is present.

—Diane Eble, author of Abundant Gifts: A Daybook of Grace-Filled Devotions

Another great day!

Sunday, May 5, 2013

Highs -n- Lows Living with the Disease

Sunday, May 5th

Could the referral to the speech therapist be proactive...is it to keep me from losing muscles in my throat???

I continue to have the tingling in my hands, arms, legs and have started to get the tingling in my buttocks...I'm hoping we can get some answers soon so I can start the treatment needed to stop the symptoms and the progression of the disease...

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In Bible stories, believers often hold firmly to godly standards, despite the odds against them. The courage they displayed sometimes intimidates us. We wonder how we can faithfully follow our convictions to the same degree. But the Spirit who indwells us has the power and desire to bring about great change in our character and perspective. Only with His help can we honor the Lord with our lives.

A. The Fruit of Self-effort

As believers, we sometimes get the impression that we are responsible to live by godly values in our own strength.

According to 2 Corinthians 5:21, what is the basis of our righteousness?
 
In our naturalness, we cannot produce holiness, no matter how much effort we put forth. This can lead to great frustration. It is necessary to understand that when we trust Christ as Savior, His Holy Spirit takes up residence within us. As we yield to the Spirit, He produces godly fruit through us.

Note: "Flesh" refers not only to a person's physical body but also to the part of our soul that wants to live independently of the Lord.

Describe the typical fruit of the flesh (Gal. 5:19).

When people try to be holy in their own strength, they might find partial success. However, the by-products of such effort can include pride, selfishness, legalism, exhaustion, and judgmental attitudes.

When have you realized you've tried to attain righteousness on your own?

What were the results of your efforts to be holy?
 
B. The Fruit of the Holy Spirit

Part of fallen human nature is to desire control, to do things ourselves. However, when it comes to righteousness—whether for salvation or for living—we must allow God to do the work.

Summarize what Galatians 2:20 and 3:3 say about the relationship between faith and living for God.

Faith, which is believing God will do as He promised, isn't something we drum up inside ourselves. Our role is to go about our lives—making decisions, handling crises, raising our families, and so on—as if God will keep His word.

The story of David's battle against Goliath is a wonderful illustration of faith. The giant had threatened the army of Israel, leaving them paralyzed with fear.

What was David's perspective (1 Sam. 17:26, 45-47)?

Notice that David did what he knew how to do, while trusting God to handle the rest.

Think of a challenge or problem you face. What is your role?

What is God's part?
 
C. Responding in Faith

David walked into the valley in response to what he believed God would do, not in reaction to his circumstances.

What previous experiences gave David confidence that God would deliver Goliath into his hands (1 Sam. 17:37)?

People either react to temptation or respond to it, based on God's truth.

When you are face to face with a "giant," such as lust or jealousy, do you find yourself thinking something like this: Oh, God, I know walking away is the right thing to do. But I'm not sure I can do it?

If so, you may be trying to rely on your own ability to become righteous.
The answer is to pray something like this: Oh, God, this is too big for me to handle, but I trust You to help me respond properly.  Faith is a signal for the Holy Spirit to go into action.

The time for deciding how to handle temptation is before we face it. Then we are more likely to stick to our convictions. No, we can't predict every challenge. But most of us fight the same battles day after day, week after week.

What are the temptations you face on a daily or weekly basis?

Take time to plan how you can do your part to resist every choice that compromises biblical values.
 
Closing: To experience success over the specific giants in your life, start by declaring victory over them each morning. Think through the pressures you are likely to feel. Item by item, thank God for the victory (see the prayer below). In doing so, you activate your faith and avoid pursuing righteousness in your own power. Remember, Christ died not only to pay your sin-debt, but also to enable your success. With His help, you can become a believer who faithfully lives according to biblical principles.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I ask You to make me into a Christian who demonstrates godly values in every situation. I trust You to produce self-control in me. I cannot handle the challenges to come, but You can. When the pressure comes, remind me that the battle is Yours. Amen.

Adapted from "The Wonderful Spirit-Filled Life" (1992).

 Another Great Day!

Saturday, May 4, 2013

Highs -n- Lows Living with the Disease

Saturday, May 4th

I heard someone say, "Adversity is the bridge to a better relationship with God". I wish there was a better way, for sure, but will try to remember the implications of that statement and put it into practice in my own life...

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The Alternatives to Patience

Read | Galatians 6:7-9

Have you ever felt the Lord calling you to something really big—maybe some task that seemed impossible or a goal that would no doubt take years to achieve? Most likely, some aspiration or God-given promise just came to mind. As you think about it, let’s consider three common courses of action.

First, we can take a shortcut. After all, if the Lord makes a promise or gives us a goal, wouldn't He want us to attain it as quickly as possible? The answer is, Not necessarily. God often gives a pledge years before He brings it to pass. When we try to manipulate circumstances and “help” the Lord fulfill His promise, we’ll surely get in the way of the good things He has in mind for us. We should remember that part of the blessing will be the trust and wisdom that we gain while we are waiting.

Second, we can simply quit. We might tell ourselves, Who wants to wait ten years for anything? That is simply too long. I’d rather move on to something else. So we just walk away, forget that the opportunity ever came up, and try not to think about it anymore. But what a tragedy it is to say no to a promise of God and to miss out on the blessing He has planned for us.

Third, we can wait patiently and trust the Lord to bless us. This is clearly the best option, but sadly the one too many of us tend to avoid.

If someone were to say to you, “Ten years from today, I’m going to give you ten million dollars,” what would you say? Most likely, you would not respond, “No, thanks. I want it now or not at all.” Why then, do so many Christians say that to God? He has tremendous blessings in store for you—if you’re willing to wait.

Another great day!

Friday, May 3, 2013

Highs -n- Lows Living with the Disease

Friday, April 3rd

Woke up to more snow this morning...winter isn't giving up...the roads haven't been plowed yet so I won't be getting out anytime soon...
I have swelling, tingling and shooting pain going down my right leg and a cold sensation...

Do I look sick?  I'm not sure...I don't feel well and I don't feel normal.  I'm not sure how others see me...

I just wish the Drs would finish the tests, come up with a true diagnosis and then treat me.
Whatever this disease is it is still active...my body and muscles are still being attacked.

The symptoms resembles Lupus and Dermatomyositis.  Blood samples were sent to CA to get tested to help with the diagnosis...still waiting to hear the results...is it or isn't it??? Results coming soon... :-)

One symptom is my brain going blank...I get so frustrated when my brain is not working when I need it to...I would love to be able to do the things that I used to do but I know I can't. Plain and simple I am limited both physically and mentally...whatever this is...

I am so blessed to have the support of my family and friends to help me go through this...I am determined not to let this diseases defeat me...I will continue reminding myself not to let it get me down...I may not be able to change the disease but I can change how I look at it... :-)

Lord, I trust that You are in control of my situation and will take good care of me... Amen!

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The Rewards of Patience

Read | Hebrews 6:13-15

Patience is hard for us to learn. I don’t know anyone who likes the trait—we simply don’t have time for patience! Life is fast, time’s running out, and we’ve got to get this show on the road, right?

This is clearly how most of us act, even if we don’t say it in so many words. Perhaps that’s why Scripture includes abundant examples of godly patience and its reward. Over and over again, we see the heavenly Father making promises to His children, only to have them wait years—sometimes decades—for the promise to be fulfilled. But the result of that patience is always blessing.

Consider Abraham. At age 75, he was given God’s promise of a son. Ten years later, he was still waiting. Fifteen years passed, then twenty, and still no son. At last, when he was 100—a quarter-century after the Lord had made the promise—baby Isaac was born. Surely Abraham must have had times of doubt during that lengthy wait. However, he continued to trust in God and kept watching for the fulfillment of His promise.

There are plenty of other examples. As a young man, Jacob met the girl of his dreams, but he had to work many years before making her his bride. Joseph had a God-given vision of blessing at 17 but languished more than a decade in slavery and prison prior to receiving the reward. And David was anointed King of Israel as a teenager but spent the next 14 years or so running for his life before taking the throne.

Shortcuts never lead to where God wants us to be. The long road, however, is filled with faithful servants. Are you waiting on the Lord today? Be encouraged—you’re in good company.

Another great day!

Thursday, May 2, 2013

Highs -n- Lows Living with the Disease

Thursday, May 2nd

I woke up this morning to snow fall...1" per hour :-(  the winter weather is really old...

This morning I have tingling in both legs and shooting pains in my right leg...hopefully they will get this under control soon...

Why does a person go to a speach therapist?  My doctor has added speach therapy to my list for treatment...is it to reprogram my brain...

I had a hard time following the Drs instructions when he was examining me...he asked me to lift my left arm or push towards him...my brain went blank so I couldn't figure out what to do...I told him my brain doesn't work all the time...

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Read | 1 Corinthians 2:12-3:3

“I just don't understand the Bible.” That’s a comment I hear quite often, even from believers. It is no mystery why those without Christ are unable to comprehend biblical concepts, but why do those who know Him struggle? Some people think that a seminary education is the answer, but I have met several trained pastors and teachers who didn't really understand the Word of God. They knew facts, but they had no excitement for the Scriptures or for the Lord.

The key is not education but obedience. As we act on what we read, the Holy Book comes alive, and we begin to hear and understand the voice of God. However, if we have not obeyed what He’s previously revealed to us, why would He give us His deeper truths? “The secret of the LORD is for those who fear Him” (Ps. 25:14). So who are “those who fear Him”? They're the ones who obey His commandments and are promised “a good understanding” (111:10).

Living a fleshly lifestyle amounts to disobedience before the Lord. It will cloud our eyes, diminish our ability to hear, and fog our thinking. Although we, as believers, have full access to the mind of Christ, attachment to our own sinful ways can prevent us from tapping into the rich treasures of wisdom that are found in His Word.

As you read the Scriptures each day, look for God’s instructions. Then with reliance upon the Holy Spirit, commit to do what He tells you. When you obey His voice, He will reveal deeper truths, and your understanding will grow. Soon your time in the Word will become a delight instead of a duty.

  Another great day!

Wednesday, May 1, 2013

Highs -n- Lows Living with the Disease

Wednesday, May 1st

Yesterday, when arrived for my tests at the U of M my Dr decided to have me only do the EMG test...he will call me to set up the muscle biopsy...they want to review all the results before deciding which area to biopsy...

When we arrived home from the test...there was a crazy message on our answering machine...
The man's voice on the machine was talking to someone else not realizing they were being recorded...he talked about pulmonary...wondering if they reviewed my lung tests from Monday??? May hear back later today.

Will have additional tests in May...

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Discovering God’s Will

Read | Colossians 1:9-12

Would you say that discovering God’s will is like trying to catch a butterfly that’s always just out of reach? Or is it more like fishing, where you cast your lure and hope for the best? In either case, you lack the assurance that you can know what His will is. Jesus, on the other hand, was absolutely certain that He knew what His Father had planned (John 6:38-39). In fact, the heavenly Father gives believers His Holy Spirit to reveal His purposes for each one.

Scripture is the Lord’s primary means of communication. It is both complete and comprehensive in content. Containing principles that address all areas of life, the Bible is the Father’s instruction book for godly living. You cannot maintain the Christian life apart from a steady diet of His Word.

The Bible’s purpose is to give us guidelines for living, and—through the influence of the Holy Spirit—the wisdom to apply them to our daily decisions. The more familiar we are with Scripture, the easier it will be to see the relevance of biblical precepts to our lives. Not adhering to the Lord’s plan will result in missing out on the abundant spiritual life that Christ has promised. Even more importantly, veering from God’s way will mean failure to bring Him the glory He deserves—glory that would result from following His plan.

Unless the Word of God has a central place in our lives, we’ll find it almost impossible to be certain we are in His will. Today is the day to change all that. God is waiting to meet with you in His Word. Won’t you join Him—nothing on your schedule could possibly be more valuable than time spent with your Father.

Another great day!