One Year Later

Steve posting...Amazed at how quickly and slowly the same period of time can seem to pass depending on the perspective from which you analyze it. One year ago today we all sat anxiously awaiting word that Lee had come safely through her first surgery in New York. She, of course, made the experience a blessed one as she made certain I was lavished with birthday gifts (thanks to all who already offered "Happy" wishes again today) and emerged with her wit and determination fully intact to begin her journey to recovery. She has continued to enjoy dramatically improved health over the past many months and has been able to reengage with several physical activities to help rebuild her strength. We continue to be humbled and blessed by God's love and care in the midst of difficult seasons.

That brings me to newest "chapter" that He is writing in our family's lives as we sit with Lee's grandmother in the hospital. This tenacious and spry little 97 years young lady is the epitome of a Godly woman and has been the caregiver to so many. Until very recently, she was ferociously independent (she's been a widow for almost 30 years, substitute taught in high school until 87 and reluctantly but voluntarily gave up driving at 91 while she has continued to live alone). In recent days, her health has taken a significant turn for the worse and the family is now gathered at her side, knowing that there will likely be very difficult decisions to make in the days ahead. For Lee, as the only granddaughter alongside four grandsons, she and her "Grandma" have always had a very unique and special bond. One of the greatest blessings I have seen for Lee as a result of her improved personal health is that she has been able to "return the favor" by coming to be at her grandmother's side during these difficult days. They've had the chance to laugh, cry, and do lots of reminiscing over the very full life they've shared together. These days, no matter how many or few of them remain, have been some of the most precious to Lee and she is so thankful to have been able to be here and help the entire family rally together to love their beloved matriarch well (although probably never as well as she has always loved and served all of us).

I would ask that you please keep the entire family in your prayers as they pray, discuss, and then decide on what next steps look like on this caregiving journey. Our sadness over Lee's grandmother's sickness is tempered by the joy of remembering how well we have been loved by her and by all of you. I again say "thank you" for the ongoing prayers for Lee and me that have allowed us to stand in this place with her family. I will post another update in the days ahead as we know more. Much Love!!

Steve

P.S. Lee insisted that I let everyone know that she hasn't even fully met her medical insurance deductible for

2014! The remarkable difference one year can make...

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Messages

Rae Jean Bettmeng

December 12, 2014, 7:09 PM

I have had the honor of meeting Lee's Grandma. She truly is a picture of what a woman of God should be! I will be forever thankful for the opportunity to have spent what little time I did with her. Please give your family our love and know that I am praying for you in the days to come. Blessings, Rae Jean and family

Nola von Neudegg

December 12, 2014, 7:14 PM

Not meeting your medical insurance deductible is DEFINITELY brag worthy -- especially for Lee! Yah!!! Nola Hugs to Grandma and the entire family.

Wanda Royal

December 12, 2014, 7:17 PM

Praising God for Lee's recovery and ability to do so much more now. I'll be keeping her grandmother and the family in my prayers. Happy Birthday Steve! Please tell Lee hello and I look forward to finally meeting you both sometime.

(I had the flu when y'all were in Knoxville last year so I couldn't make it to meet y'all) Wanda Royal

Kimball & Elizabeth Parker

December 12, 2014, 7:31 PM

What a great perspective! Love to the two of you, grandma, and the family. Happy Birthday to Steve as well.

A.J. Paulsen

December 12, 2014, 7:46 PM

Our thoughts are with you and Lee and all her family. We also wish you a happy birthday. Aj and Amy Paulsen

Lisa Currall

December 12, 2014, 8:09 PM

Praying for peaceful times during these decisions, good memories even if difficult, continued health for Lee and a Blessed Birthday for you Steve. Alan Provencher December 12, 2014, 9:07 PM Prayers for Grandma. Thankful that Lee has been able to be with her at this difficult time. A blessing that you two are there. Happy Birthday.

Sandy Temple

December 12, 2014, 9:26 PM

Great to hear from you all! I am so glad to hear that Lee's health has improved so much. I am very sorry that Martha's mom's health is declining. Thankful, however, that Lee can be with her and her family. I will continue to pray for all. God bless! Sandy Temple

Wendy Sternshein

December 12, 2014, 9:54 PM

Such a wonderful year that has seen Lee's miraculous return to health. May your milestone of "not meeting your deductible" continue in the years that come! As a grandmother, I am so thankful that Lee's grandma got to see her return to health. There could be no greater gift for her. I am especially happy that the two of you can be together for your Happy Birthday, Steve. Best wishes from all of us.

Joan Bouck

December 12, 2014, 10:23 PM

Lives well lived and hopes for an even brighter tomorrow! The connections we hold most dear are never lost, they are part of us and continue in our hearts. Blessings and Best

Wishes to all of you! Joan @ Lacey Fire

Rebekah Marks

December 12, 2014, 10:54 PM

Will be praying for Lee and her family in this time. At the same time, rejoicing in Gods provision of Lee's health and the God glorifying and long life her grandma has lived.

Ruth Warner

December 13, 2014, 3:13 AM

Congratulations to Grandmother for a life well lived. Prayers will be said for her and all who loved her as well. May you all be blessed with peace.

Linda Surber

December 13, 2014, 3:23 AM

Thanks you Steve for the update. My love to Martha. Praying for you all, Linda

**Sylvia O** Dell December 13, 2014, 4:56 AM Praying for Lee and her family as they love grandmother readying themselves to say good-bye. So thankful she is able to be here! God has blessed her so much. Happy Birthday Steve! Know Lee has made sure you had a happy day. Love you guys, Dolly and Digger

Debby Swecker

December 13, 2014, 5:21 AM

Happy Birthday Steve! I will lift up your family/Lee's grandmother.

Tamara Longworth

December 13, 2014, 5:36 AM

What a tremendous praise for Lee's improved health!! Continued prayers for strength and improvement, and lots of joy filled days to make up for the past struggles! Prayers for the entire family as you walk through the coming days. What a blessing it is that you all can be together and to celebrate the wonderful life and memories of a true patriarch for your family. May the rest of her days be pain free and a true celebration of her life. Last, but not least, Happy Birthday to you, Steve! We think of you guys often and wish you nothing but the best!

Sandi Henry

December 13, 2014, 5:46 AM

So glad to hear that Lee is still doing well and is able to be with her precious grandmother. Praying that her gmom has a peaceful passing to heaven. Happy birthday to you, Steve! Bill and I love you both.

Shirley Keith

December 13, 2014, 2:21 PM

It seems to me that God has chosen Lee and Steve to exemplify a Christian life and a good choice it is. My thoughts are with you as I know you will accept the Lord's will.

Judi Johnson

December 14, 2014, 1:58 AM

Praying for your family and thinking special thoughts of you all. Judi Johnson

Terry Puckett

December 19, 2014, 3:30 AM

Keeping you all in my prayers.

Bruce Ensign

December 21, 2014, 9:26 PM

Thank you for sharing. It is AMAZING Lee hasn't used the deductible for 2014! Yeah! On another note, loosing a loved one is so hard. It sounds like you have been loved well by her and she was a blessing to so many. May that be all of our story, as Jesus hones and perfects us through our sorrows, and our joys. Live for Him...the rest just gets in the way.