Okay so I missed blogging yesterday so here I am. I have been reading so many peoples blogs and feeling like I have a sense of community. Oh I have lots of friends and am very blessed with a great support of family, but it has been so great to relate with so many who share the same struggles that I do.
When I started on this journey I did not understand why this had to happen to me, why? What had I done that God would allow me to be knocked of my feet and stopped dead in my tracks. As I continued to fight what was happening to me it only got worse. Oh sometimes I would succomb to the fatigue and the pain and stay in bed for a day of so, but not for long. If I pushed harder I would work through whatever was wrong with my body. Each day I became more and more relient on God's Word. Finally I realized that I needed to listen to my body, rest when I need too, take the extra pain medicine when it is neccisary, and be okay even when know one else understands, because He does. It has come to my attention that through all of this my walk with the Lord has just gotten stronger, that I need the constant reminder that the only way I can get through any day is with Him. I am not saying that God made this happen but I am saying that through this He has drawn me closer to Him.
About Me
- Pain-Free Journey
- Lets see...I am social person. I love to be around people. I started my career as a Hairstylist in 1987 and was passionate about it until I was no longer able to in 2007. I now manage a hair salon part time and enjoy sharing my knowledge with the stylists that are just starting their careers. I have been married for 16 years and have two boys 19 and 9! They are a tru joy in my life! I have 12 chickens and 1 Rooster. They are a hoot and I love the fresh eggs. I also enjoy reading and cooking. I have something called Thalamic Pain Syndrome. I have been suffering for 5 years now, but it has just been recently that I was diagnosed with this. Oh I have had plenty of " We think this is what is wrong" so to finally know what was causing my chronic pain is a huge relief
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Saturday, September 4, 2010
Living with an invisible illness
With invisible illness week right around the corner it has had me thinking what my life is like living with an invisible illness. For me it has been trying to say the least. I like so many others who I have talked to, was a perfectly healthy full of energy lots of stamina, wife, mother and business woman until one day all of that changed. When I say one day it seemed as though 1 day I was fine the next my whole world was changed. Not only did it change my life but it changed my whole families life. The wife and mother they knew who could and would do anything they needed was now too tired, too much pain, or mentally couldn't remember small details that were so important to them. Here we are 6 years later and as I sit here trying to make this make sense with as few words as I can I can say with the utmost certainty that God's Grace, Mercy and Love, has walked our family through this Journey. It has not been easy. Lot's of dr. appt's lots of disappointment in trying to find answers. Trying to learn a new normal in our lives. I think the hardest thing for me was admitting there was something wrong with me and listening to my body. Not worrying about what people were thinking about me. When you look normal on the outside, meaning you show no outward signs of being sick, you know that people have a hard time understanding or having sympathy to your illness. This is something that I know first hand. I was one of those people. That I know is one of the things that God wanted me to learn through my own illness.
My family has learned a new normal. We all understand that it may have to be adjusted day by day, but communication and honesty about how I feel is a huge key it keeping a peace around our house! No matter what God is with me always and with Him I can do all things! Maybe not the way I used to but by His grace I find a new way!
God Bless,
Keri
My family has learned a new normal. We all understand that it may have to be adjusted day by day, but communication and honesty about how I feel is a huge key it keeping a peace around our house! No matter what God is with me always and with Him I can do all things! Maybe not the way I used to but by His grace I find a new way!
God Bless,
Keri
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Fog in my head!
The last few days I have been really struggling with what I like to call a Great Fog in my head. I can't think clearly my face and tongue feel like someone is squeezing them and the pain in my arm is crazy. Yesterday I gave in and went back to sleep. That does help, but not an option today. The harder I fight it the worse it becomes. So frustrating! I want to scream! You know when you have no control over what happens to your body it is a helpless feeling. The worst part is it is invisible to everyone else, but you know the war that is going on inside. I am so thankful that I am not alone on this journey. I have made so many new friends who are in the same place I am. Oh we don't all have the same symptoms and we all handle the things that are happening to us in a slightly different way, but I know that they are there if I need them, and that they are praying for me. There is so much comfort in that!
Bless you my friends!!
Off to dream land to get out of the fog!:)
Keri
Bless you my friends!!
Off to dream land to get out of the fog!:)
Keri
Monday, August 30, 2010
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Hope
Good morning! It is a beautiful day here in Middle Tennessee. I think Fall is right around the corner.
I was reading some bible verses today about hope. I got to thinking how many times the word hope appears in the bible... a lot! We toss it around when we speak to each other and I know we think about it, but do we really believe in Hope? I like to think I do, and as I read these verses, these promises from God, the God who loves us, I realized how important Hope is in our everyday life.
If you suffer from an illness that tries to steal your hope, please don't give up! These verses are why we have Hope!
Ps:31:24 Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart, all who hope in the Lord.
Ps. 16:9 Therefore my heart is glad and my glory rejoices: My flesh will rest in Hope.
Ps. 33:22 Let your unfailing love surround us Lord, for our hope is in you alone.
Ps. 39:7 An so, Lord where do I put may hope? My only hope is in You!!!!
There are so many more, but I hope that these will encourage you. When days are tough hope is what we have!
Blessings my friends!
Keri
I was reading some bible verses today about hope. I got to thinking how many times the word hope appears in the bible... a lot! We toss it around when we speak to each other and I know we think about it, but do we really believe in Hope? I like to think I do, and as I read these verses, these promises from God, the God who loves us, I realized how important Hope is in our everyday life.
If you suffer from an illness that tries to steal your hope, please don't give up! These verses are why we have Hope!
Ps:31:24 Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart, all who hope in the Lord.
Ps. 16:9 Therefore my heart is glad and my glory rejoices: My flesh will rest in Hope.
Ps. 33:22 Let your unfailing love surround us Lord, for our hope is in you alone.
Ps. 39:7 An so, Lord where do I put may hope? My only hope is in You!!!!
There are so many more, but I hope that these will encourage you. When days are tough hope is what we have!
Blessings my friends!
Keri
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Great Meeting
Tonight was a great gift from God. I have waited so long for this support group and now it has finally happened. We had 4 in attendance with 6 on the roll. I see how God has brought us all together for such a time as this. We will continue to meet the 3rd Wednesday of every month if anyone is interested in joining our group, it will always be open to new members.
Blessings,
Keri
Blessings,
Keri
Monday, August 16, 2010
HopeKeepers Support Group Meeting
HopeKeepers Support Group meeting this Wednesday August 18th @ Gladeville Baptist Church, 9000 Stewarts Ferry Pike, Gladeville, TN. 6:15 pm in Annex 1. Childcare provided and Dinner is served starting at 5:00 p.m. in fellowship hall. If you have any questions please feel free to email me @ ckdelphia@comcast.net. Look forward to seeing you there.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Pain!
The last few days have been a real challenge! My pain level has been all over the place. One minute it is at a 10 and then a little while later it may be at a 3. This is not the first time I have experienced this, but it is just dis hearting when it happens. I am sure that it has to do with the air condition in different places. I wish that this was not an issue but it is and I am having to pay close attention to what I wear and where I go. I am thankful that I seem to be able to get some relief if I can just warm up, of course not too much because then that will make it worse again! Ugh, sometimes I think a plastic bubble would be nice, set at a constant temp of 75 degrees. My husband always jokes and says he will build me one, maybe I should take him up on it:). I just read this devotional and it made me think of what goes through my head most days. I hope you will enjoy!
Blessings,
Keri
Let your light shine
"For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” (Ephesians 2:10)
Dear ones, how many of us feel discouraged about our physical limitations? If I were to take a guess, I would say just about all of us. Pain is a constant distractions, and fatigue is often all encompassing. Another difficulty that has come knocking at my door more and more often lately is clumsiness.
I have had an extended period of pain these past few months. Simply making my way through a day has often been an endurance exercise! It would have been so easy to feel like more of a burden than a blessing. Scriptures, like the verse for this day make all of the difference.
“We ARE God’s workmanship…” And God does not make mistakes.
We are “created in Christ Jesus to do good works.” A logical continuation of that would be that there must be good works that we are able to do.
These good works, God already prepared for us to do. Everything is set up, we just need to find out His will for us!
In the Amplified Bible this verse reads like this, I think it explains the verse better for us.
“We are God’s own handiwork created in Christ Jesus to do good works which God planned beforehand for us to do so that we should walk in them.” Ephesians 2:10 (Amplified Bible)
We may not be able to work full time in the “real” world. But we can touch others in many ways. We can be encouragers! Many of us have been blessed by E mails or cards through the mail that let us know someone is praying for us. We can bless others with notes and e mails and show we care. It is a good way to think of others and forget for a while how we are feeling.
We can send up sentence prayers and pray for those whose lives we touch at the Dr’s office or the pharmacy. Many times I have gotten to know someone while riding one of those handicap scooters in the stores. They seem to be automatic conversation starters as I try to reach for an item, or commiserate with someone else on their scooter. I smile and try to show God’s love and joy.
A chance encounter can be a God moment. Anytime I go out to the store I pray that I can be used.
Matthew 5:16 Let your light shine before men that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.”
Blessings,
Keri
Let your light shine
"For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” (Ephesians 2:10)
Dear ones, how many of us feel discouraged about our physical limitations? If I were to take a guess, I would say just about all of us. Pain is a constant distractions, and fatigue is often all encompassing. Another difficulty that has come knocking at my door more and more often lately is clumsiness.
I have had an extended period of pain these past few months. Simply making my way through a day has often been an endurance exercise! It would have been so easy to feel like more of a burden than a blessing. Scriptures, like the verse for this day make all of the difference.
“We ARE God’s workmanship…” And God does not make mistakes.
We are “created in Christ Jesus to do good works.” A logical continuation of that would be that there must be good works that we are able to do.
These good works, God already prepared for us to do. Everything is set up, we just need to find out His will for us!
In the Amplified Bible this verse reads like this, I think it explains the verse better for us.
“We are God’s own handiwork created in Christ Jesus to do good works which God planned beforehand for us to do so that we should walk in them.” Ephesians 2:10 (Amplified Bible)
We may not be able to work full time in the “real” world. But we can touch others in many ways. We can be encouragers! Many of us have been blessed by E mails or cards through the mail that let us know someone is praying for us. We can bless others with notes and e mails and show we care. It is a good way to think of others and forget for a while how we are feeling.
We can send up sentence prayers and pray for those whose lives we touch at the Dr’s office or the pharmacy. Many times I have gotten to know someone while riding one of those handicap scooters in the stores. They seem to be automatic conversation starters as I try to reach for an item, or commiserate with someone else on their scooter. I smile and try to show God’s love and joy.
A chance encounter can be a God moment. Anytime I go out to the store I pray that I can be used.
Matthew 5:16 Let your light shine before men that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.”
Monday, June 21, 2010
Good Morning!
Good morning! I am sorry it has been so long since I have posted anything. Summer always comes and life gets crazy. I just dropped my youngest off at basketball camp, and have come home to a quiet house. I almost don't know what to do or where to begin. My parents have been here for a week and my nephew who has lived with us for 4 months left on the same day they did. It is very quiet. I think I will enjoy it while it lasts.
I have been feeling pretty good for the last week. Unfortunately that changed yesterday and am suffering from the burning stabbing pain in my ear, face and arm. So frustrating!!!! They started me on some new steroids for my eye and that seems to really help the redness and burning there, but all the rest it out of control. I will rest the next few days and hopefully it will subside.
Two weeks ago our pastor asked if he could pray for me. I of course said yes. He prayed specifically for areas I had pain. The next morning I awoke with no burning pain in my foot which has been a problem for months. We talked about the fact that we go to the doctor for many visits with hopes that they will heal us. He pointed out that going to the Father in prayer should be the same. I read this devotional this morning and it brought that conversation to my attention. I am so blessed to have so many people who I know are committed to pray for me. If any of you reading this are in need of prayer please let me know, I would be honored to pray for you.
Here is this devotional that I read this morning:
“A large crowd followed and pressed around him. And a woman was there who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years. She had suffered a great deal under the care of many doctors and had spent all she had, yet instead of getting better she grew worse. When she heard about Jesus, she came up behind him in the crowd and touched his cloak, because she thought, ‘If I just touch his clothes, I will be healed.’ Immediately her bleeding stopped and she felt in her body that she was freed from her suffering.” (Mark 5:24b-29)
I’ve been thinking a lot about the verse above lately. This poor woman, frail and weak from blood loss, pressing through a huge crowd to get to Jesus. We can be fairly certain that this woman suffered from anemia from her chronic blood loss. As someone who has suffered anemia I can tell you that she likely endured terrible physical exhaustion, racing heartbeat, dizziness, sleeplessness, and shortness of breath.
Imagine being in such poor physical health and yet finding the courage and fortitude to press through the crowd to Jesus.
Sometimes we need to press through our difficulties and limitations to find our way to Jesus. We need to push aside busy schedules and many distractions to find our Lord. The crowd we face may be endless situations calling for our attention, or distractions all around us keeping our focus in the wrong place. We may find real physical limitations seem to leave us too weak even for prayer. But we must press through and press on.
You may find yourself weak, sick, overcome by life’s circumstances.
It may seem that a crowd of problems are pressing against you.
Picture that little lady, having suffered from endless bleeding and physical weakness, yet she pressed on to find Jesus. Let her be your inspiration.
Prayer: Dear Lord, help us to never to let our limitations keep us from You. Amen.
About The Author
Karlton Douglas lives in Ohio with his lovely wife. He has endured years of Chronic Illness, including Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Crohn’s Disease. He has pressed on through God’s grace and strength.
I have been feeling pretty good for the last week. Unfortunately that changed yesterday and am suffering from the burning stabbing pain in my ear, face and arm. So frustrating!!!! They started me on some new steroids for my eye and that seems to really help the redness and burning there, but all the rest it out of control. I will rest the next few days and hopefully it will subside.
Two weeks ago our pastor asked if he could pray for me. I of course said yes. He prayed specifically for areas I had pain. The next morning I awoke with no burning pain in my foot which has been a problem for months. We talked about the fact that we go to the doctor for many visits with hopes that they will heal us. He pointed out that going to the Father in prayer should be the same. I read this devotional this morning and it brought that conversation to my attention. I am so blessed to have so many people who I know are committed to pray for me. If any of you reading this are in need of prayer please let me know, I would be honored to pray for you.
Here is this devotional that I read this morning:
“A large crowd followed and pressed around him. And a woman was there who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years. She had suffered a great deal under the care of many doctors and had spent all she had, yet instead of getting better she grew worse. When she heard about Jesus, she came up behind him in the crowd and touched his cloak, because she thought, ‘If I just touch his clothes, I will be healed.’ Immediately her bleeding stopped and she felt in her body that she was freed from her suffering.” (Mark 5:24b-29)
I’ve been thinking a lot about the verse above lately. This poor woman, frail and weak from blood loss, pressing through a huge crowd to get to Jesus. We can be fairly certain that this woman suffered from anemia from her chronic blood loss. As someone who has suffered anemia I can tell you that she likely endured terrible physical exhaustion, racing heartbeat, dizziness, sleeplessness, and shortness of breath.
Imagine being in such poor physical health and yet finding the courage and fortitude to press through the crowd to Jesus.
Sometimes we need to press through our difficulties and limitations to find our way to Jesus. We need to push aside busy schedules and many distractions to find our Lord. The crowd we face may be endless situations calling for our attention, or distractions all around us keeping our focus in the wrong place. We may find real physical limitations seem to leave us too weak even for prayer. But we must press through and press on.
You may find yourself weak, sick, overcome by life’s circumstances.
It may seem that a crowd of problems are pressing against you.
Picture that little lady, having suffered from endless bleeding and physical weakness, yet she pressed on to find Jesus. Let her be your inspiration.
Prayer: Dear Lord, help us to never to let our limitations keep us from You. Amen.
About The Author
Karlton Douglas lives in Ohio with his lovely wife. He has endured years of Chronic Illness, including Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Crohn’s Disease. He has pressed on through God’s grace and strength.
Friday, April 30, 2010
Trust....I needed to read this this morning!!!
I was reading my daily devotional this morning and it so spoke to me that I wanted to share it with you all. I just had a conversation with a friend last night about this very thing~ Is God awesome...He always knows what we need if we will just trust that He will take care of us!
Have a blessed day!
Keri
“But blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. He will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.” (Jeremiah 7:7-8)
I love to photograph trees, the variety, the shape, even the twisted trunks of dead trees – they all appeal to me.
These verses in Jeremiah paint a picture of hope. In the midst of all the criticism the Lord is having Jeremiah pass on to the people who have gone astray, he reminds them that if they will only turn back to the Lord and trust in Him, they will be blessed.
The tallest trees have some of the longest roots. In order to balance the height of the tree, they need a firm base to withstand the wind, or storms. The trees described here are alongside a water source so it is well watered. A well-watered tree, is green and healthy and will bear fruit or sometimes flowers, that go on to support birds, animals, insects, or provide us with food.
If I think of myself as being like a tree – as it says in Jeremiah – I need to be nourished in order to live, I need to be in right relationship with the Lord. I need to be mindful of the foundations of my faith, that like the roots will keep me strong in the trying times. I need that living water that Christ promised to us. It also says that I need not worry – something I spend too much time doing – rather hand over those worries to God.
Living with chronic illness, it may seem hard to see ourselves as “always green” – I know I often feel dry and shriveled up. I know I look at my circumstances and know that without my faith, I couldn’t make it through each day of pain. I wonder though if these verses today remind me that even when I may feel dried up and useless because of my circumstances, it is saying that God sees me as a green tree and He can still use me to bear fruit for Him.
About the Author:
Fiona Burrows lives in Melbourne, Australia. She is thankful for the difference God makes in her life as she lives with chronic pain. She enjoys finding time for reading, writing, travel and photography.
Have a blessed day!
Keri
“But blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. He will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.” (Jeremiah 7:7-8)
I love to photograph trees, the variety, the shape, even the twisted trunks of dead trees – they all appeal to me.
These verses in Jeremiah paint a picture of hope. In the midst of all the criticism the Lord is having Jeremiah pass on to the people who have gone astray, he reminds them that if they will only turn back to the Lord and trust in Him, they will be blessed.
The tallest trees have some of the longest roots. In order to balance the height of the tree, they need a firm base to withstand the wind, or storms. The trees described here are alongside a water source so it is well watered. A well-watered tree, is green and healthy and will bear fruit or sometimes flowers, that go on to support birds, animals, insects, or provide us with food.
If I think of myself as being like a tree – as it says in Jeremiah – I need to be nourished in order to live, I need to be in right relationship with the Lord. I need to be mindful of the foundations of my faith, that like the roots will keep me strong in the trying times. I need that living water that Christ promised to us. It also says that I need not worry – something I spend too much time doing – rather hand over those worries to God.
Living with chronic illness, it may seem hard to see ourselves as “always green” – I know I often feel dry and shriveled up. I know I look at my circumstances and know that without my faith, I couldn’t make it through each day of pain. I wonder though if these verses today remind me that even when I may feel dried up and useless because of my circumstances, it is saying that God sees me as a green tree and He can still use me to bear fruit for Him.
About the Author:
Fiona Burrows lives in Melbourne, Australia. She is thankful for the difference God makes in her life as she lives with chronic pain. She enjoys finding time for reading, writing, travel and photography.
Monday, April 26, 2010
Appt with the Neuro Opthamologist
Today @ 2:00 p.m. I go to the Neuro Opthamologist. Hopefully he can shed some light on what is going on with my eye. I will post something when I get back. Ususally they don't give you answers right away, but maybe today will be different.
Keri
Keri
Thursday, April 22, 2010
OOPS!
Okay I really messed up. I thought that the support group was to meet every 3rd Wednesday of the month, nope...every 4th Wednesday!. So sorry for the mix up. We will meet next Wednesday night same time same place!
Your slightly messed up host,
Keri:)
Your slightly messed up host,
Keri:)
Monday, April 19, 2010
Update on my eye
Sorry it has been so long since I updated about my eye. I am now being sent to an Neuro Opthamologist. They have determined that whatever is wrong with my eye can't be from the Thalamic Syndrome, although it does appear to be Neurological. I have my appointment a week from today. We will see what he has to say!
Thanks for all your prayers!
Blessings,
Keri
Thanks for all your prayers!
Blessings,
Keri
Support Group
Just a quick note to remind anyone reading this that might be interested in joining our support group we will be meeting Wednesday night at Gladeville Baptist Church, 6:15 p.m.. There will be child care availabe and if you need to come straight from work we have dinner at the church starting @ 5:00 p.m.. the address is 9000 Stewarts Ferry Pike.
If you have any questions or suggestions, please let me know!
If you have any questions or suggestions, please let me know!
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Update
Lets see...no pun intended...I recieved a call from the Opthamologist on Tuesday afternoon. He reported that the field of vision test showed that the optic nerve in my left eye is definately the culprit. He wanted to call my neurologist to go over the last MRI of the brain I had and then he would get back to me on the next test they would like to do. I did not get to speak to him as he left all of this as a voicemail, so I have not been able to ask him questions. I did call Dr. Pete and he explained what he knew from the notes the Opthamologist sent him. That helped a little, but I am still not sure what is going on. My up close vision is fine as long as I don't have to read for a long period of time. My distance vision is distorted and blurry. I feel like my eyes are in a fight against eachother and am having pain in the left eye. FRUSTRATING! I really thought that I was done with all of this. You know I went to the Mayo clinic, they gave me a diagnosis and that was that! Ha I was wrong. I think a couple more days and I will be done feeling sorry for myself. I am hopeful that this will clear itself up and I will be seeing just fine in the very near future.
Keri
Keri
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Vision Test
I had my field of vision test done yesterday. Not a painful test, but seem to stress me out due to not being able to see with my left eye. Only took about 15 minutes and then I was on my way home. Of course I won't know anything for a few days. I will let you all know when I find something out.
It is another gourgeous day out. Already went for a short walk. I always have to think twice about that due to it making my legs weak, but I had to. Sometimes I have to pick the discomfort to enjoy the things I love to do. Any of you know what I am talking about?
Blessing all.
Keri
It is another gourgeous day out. Already went for a short walk. I always have to think twice about that due to it making my legs weak, but I had to. Sometimes I have to pick the discomfort to enjoy the things I love to do. Any of you know what I am talking about?
Blessing all.
Keri
Friday, April 2, 2010
This Weather Is WONDERFUL!!
Spring has finally Sprung here in Middle Tennessee! It couldn't be more beautiful. Each day something new is blooming, and everywhere you look it is turning into a blanked of green. The tempetures are in the 70's and 80's and the humidity is low! PERFECT!
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Eye Appointment
I have been having blurred vision for about a month now and since it wasn't a prescription change the Neurologist and Dr. Pete, my optometrist, decided I should see a Opthomologist. So I went. I swore I wasn't doing Dr.'s in 2010, but when your vision is messed up...well I decided it was the right thing to do.
I saw a Dr that the Neurologist referred me too. He was very nice and very thorough. I am still seeing spots from the bright light that I am pretty sure looked all the way through to the other side of my brain. It's been 5 hours and I am just now able to see again. Anyway the verdict is still out right at the moment. I go back on Monday am to have field of vision test done. This will tell them if it is neurological or not. Thankfully I don't have to have my eyes dilated for this! YAY!
I saw a Dr that the Neurologist referred me too. He was very nice and very thorough. I am still seeing spots from the bright light that I am pretty sure looked all the way through to the other side of my brain. It's been 5 hours and I am just now able to see again. Anyway the verdict is still out right at the moment. I go back on Monday am to have field of vision test done. This will tell them if it is neurological or not. Thankfully I don't have to have my eyes dilated for this! YAY!
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Fatigue!
Finally some beautiful weather. It was sunny and 70 degrees here today. It is amazing how quickly everything starts blooming with just a couple of sunny days.
Craig got the lawn mower all ready for the season and Dillon and Cameron(my nephew) mowed and did the weeding while Clay picked up all the the sticks and stray baseballs out of the yard. It looks so neat and tidy!
I myself just enjoyed the sunshine from inside today. After making breakfast this morning I had to lay back down and nap. I don't have to many days of such fatigue that I just can't move, but when I do it knocks me off my feet. I am hopeful that tomorrow it will be gone and I will be back to myself. It is the one thing I think that I detest the most of this whole sickness thing! It gives no warning and changes my plans in an instant!
Craig got the lawn mower all ready for the season and Dillon and Cameron(my nephew) mowed and did the weeding while Clay picked up all the the sticks and stray baseballs out of the yard. It looks so neat and tidy!
I myself just enjoyed the sunshine from inside today. After making breakfast this morning I had to lay back down and nap. I don't have to many days of such fatigue that I just can't move, but when I do it knocks me off my feet. I am hopeful that tomorrow it will be gone and I will be back to myself. It is the one thing I think that I detest the most of this whole sickness thing! It gives no warning and changes my plans in an instant!
Friday, March 26, 2010
Expecting Suffering But Relying on Hope
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)
One thing I have found with facing daily chronic challenges is that it is so easy for me to focus on myself and so difficult to find that “peace.” I have almost continual reminders of “me”. My challenges are daily, almost minute-by-minute reminders that I am not the person I was. For me to be ok, I must look beyond those challenges.
What seems to cause the most pain is my own expectation that there should be no pain or suffering – that life should be simple and easy. And yet, even Scripture tells us that is not so. What I am finding is that if I am not taken aback by my new challenges, if I don’t view them as something that “shouldn’t” happen, they are easier to deal with. So James knew exactly what he was saying when he wrote “Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you.” (James 4:12)
I am learning we must realize that bad things can and will happen. At the same time, we must realize that we have the opportunity to rise about these things and not focus on them or ourselves, but to focus on our God who is the author and perfector of our faith – the one we can run to in each and every situation, the one who will hear our cries, the one who has already overcome the world.
Father God. We live in a difficult and sometimes scary world. We may not understand what is happening to us and to those around us. Yet, I thank you, that in all of these times, you are there, feeling our pain, knowing our hearts, and loving us through each and every trial that comes our way. Help us to keep our eyes on You. Amen.
About the Author:
Deni believes that the only true way to deal with chronic pain and chronic illness is to bring them to the feet of her Lord and Savior. Her multiple illnesses (Celiac Sprue, Atrial Fibrillation, Ankylosing Spondylitis, to name a few) have taught her many things about herself and her Christian walk. It is her fondest prayer that some of her lessons might be helpful to others as they walk the path of chronic illness. deni can be reached at EncouragingWords@me.com. Her website is http://www.pathwaysforchange.com/Encouragement.
One thing I have found with facing daily chronic challenges is that it is so easy for me to focus on myself and so difficult to find that “peace.” I have almost continual reminders of “me”. My challenges are daily, almost minute-by-minute reminders that I am not the person I was. For me to be ok, I must look beyond those challenges.
What seems to cause the most pain is my own expectation that there should be no pain or suffering – that life should be simple and easy. And yet, even Scripture tells us that is not so. What I am finding is that if I am not taken aback by my new challenges, if I don’t view them as something that “shouldn’t” happen, they are easier to deal with. So James knew exactly what he was saying when he wrote “Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you.” (James 4:12)
I am learning we must realize that bad things can and will happen. At the same time, we must realize that we have the opportunity to rise about these things and not focus on them or ourselves, but to focus on our God who is the author and perfector of our faith – the one we can run to in each and every situation, the one who will hear our cries, the one who has already overcome the world.
Father God. We live in a difficult and sometimes scary world. We may not understand what is happening to us and to those around us. Yet, I thank you, that in all of these times, you are there, feeling our pain, knowing our hearts, and loving us through each and every trial that comes our way. Help us to keep our eyes on You. Amen.
About the Author:
Deni believes that the only true way to deal with chronic pain and chronic illness is to bring them to the feet of her Lord and Savior. Her multiple illnesses (Celiac Sprue, Atrial Fibrillation, Ankylosing Spondylitis, to name a few) have taught her many things about herself and her Christian walk. It is her fondest prayer that some of her lessons might be helpful to others as they walk the path of chronic illness. deni can be reached at EncouragingWords@me.com. Her website is http://www.pathwaysforchange.com/Encouragement.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Next Support Group Meeting
Well, last night was not exactly what I had hoped for, but I knew that this might take some time to get going. Myself and my friend Tracey, who is helping me head up the group, met for our first support group meeting. I didn't really get it out there enough and I don't think people really know what it is all about. I am working on some brocures and maybe before our April meeting I will be able to put it in the local paper. We will be meeting the 4th Wednesday of every month. I may have to pick another night. We will see what happens and go from there.
Thank you to all of you who have been praying for me and this group. I know that God has a plan and it will be for His glory and not mine.
Blessings,
Keri
Thank you to all of you who have been praying for me and this group. I know that God has a plan and it will be for His glory and not mine.
Blessings,
Keri
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Hope to see you tonight
Tonight at 6:00 p.m. the first meeting of our HopeKeepers Support Group will begin. We will be meeting at Gladeville Baptist Church, 9000 Stewarts Ferry Pike, Gladeville TN.
I am looking forward to meeting new friends and sharing our hope and faith in what God has planned for us!
“Jesus did many other things as well. If every one of them were written down, I suppose that even the whole world would not have room for the books that would be written.” John 21:25
I thought what would happen if . . . I went to a library, pulled out a book, found a comfortable chair, and sat down and began to read. Totally engrossed I continued until chapter 9. As I turned the page to begin the next I found all the remaining pages blank. Thinking there must be a publishing error I seek another copy and find the same thing. An unfinished book. How would I ever know how this story ended?
Receiving a chronic illness diagnosis is much like this. We are busy with our lives planning our days and even our future. Then suddenly it all comes to a halt. All the words of the remaining chapters of our lives fall from the pages and we are left with a sense of deep loss. Now what?
But after reading this verse I thought perhaps I need to allow Jesus to finish my story. If He did so many things, that written down there would not be enough room in the whole world, then certainly He could do the same for me.
Maybe–just maybe–allowing Him to pen my moments; each day a new line, page or even a chapter I would see a new life unfolding. Not the one I had envisioned but something unique and possibly life changing.
My lost confidence in my body has been replaced with a new confidence in the Lord. It is His story. It was never really mine and now finally laying my unfinished life at the foot of the cross I can at last receive the much needed rest that comes from surrender.
About the Author:
Catherine Barron lives in Sheridan, Montana. She is semi retired and loves to read, write and her latest hobby outdoor photography although her first love will always be the word of God. She considers her fibromyalgia a formidable unrelenting teacher.
I am looking forward to meeting new friends and sharing our hope and faith in what God has planned for us!
“Jesus did many other things as well. If every one of them were written down, I suppose that even the whole world would not have room for the books that would be written.” John 21:25
I thought what would happen if . . . I went to a library, pulled out a book, found a comfortable chair, and sat down and began to read. Totally engrossed I continued until chapter 9. As I turned the page to begin the next I found all the remaining pages blank. Thinking there must be a publishing error I seek another copy and find the same thing. An unfinished book. How would I ever know how this story ended?
Receiving a chronic illness diagnosis is much like this. We are busy with our lives planning our days and even our future. Then suddenly it all comes to a halt. All the words of the remaining chapters of our lives fall from the pages and we are left with a sense of deep loss. Now what?
But after reading this verse I thought perhaps I need to allow Jesus to finish my story. If He did so many things, that written down there would not be enough room in the whole world, then certainly He could do the same for me.
Maybe–just maybe–allowing Him to pen my moments; each day a new line, page or even a chapter I would see a new life unfolding. Not the one I had envisioned but something unique and possibly life changing.
My lost confidence in my body has been replaced with a new confidence in the Lord. It is His story. It was never really mine and now finally laying my unfinished life at the foot of the cross I can at last receive the much needed rest that comes from surrender.
About the Author:
Catherine Barron lives in Sheridan, Montana. She is semi retired and loves to read, write and her latest hobby outdoor photography although her first love will always be the word of God. She considers her fibromyalgia a formidable unrelenting teacher.
Monday, March 22, 2010
Support Group Starting!!!!
Okay everyone I have been pretty silent lately and for that I appologize!
I am very excited to announce that the support group that I have been working on starting up will have it's first official meeting on Wednesday night.
Hopekeepers Support Group
Gladeville Baptist Church
9000 Stewarts Ferry Pike
Gladeville, TN
Wednesday night March 24th
6:00 p.m.
Rm: A-176
I will be the facilitator for the group along with Tracey Ross.
If you or anyone you knows would like to come and is not familiar with the location please feel free to email me and I will get you directions!!!!
Blessing to you all
Keri
I am very excited to announce that the support group that I have been working on starting up will have it's first official meeting on Wednesday night.
Hopekeepers Support Group
Gladeville Baptist Church
9000 Stewarts Ferry Pike
Gladeville, TN
Wednesday night March 24th
6:00 p.m.
Rm: A-176
I will be the facilitator for the group along with Tracey Ross.
If you or anyone you knows would like to come and is not familiar with the location please feel free to email me and I will get you directions!!!!
Blessing to you all
Keri
Monday, January 11, 2010
The Bitter Cold!
The last few days and have been below freezing! If you suffer from a chronic illness or from Chronic pain you know that this is not a fun time!
I had my second day of sign ups for the support group yesterday @ church. I spoke to so many people who are quietly waging a war inside there bodies that do not show on the outside. It was so apparent to me that this is much needed in our community. I know that I am excited to have others to share with that understand where I am and where I may be going.
If you are interested in being apart of this group you may contact me here on this blog or email me @ ckdelphia@comcast.net.
We will be meeting in the next two weeks. I have not decided on a date and time but will in the next couple of days.
God is good and His promises are for ever!.
Blessings to you all,
Keri
I had my second day of sign ups for the support group yesterday @ church. I spoke to so many people who are quietly waging a war inside there bodies that do not show on the outside. It was so apparent to me that this is much needed in our community. I know that I am excited to have others to share with that understand where I am and where I may be going.
If you are interested in being apart of this group you may contact me here on this blog or email me @ ckdelphia@comcast.net.
We will be meeting in the next two weeks. I have not decided on a date and time but will in the next couple of days.
God is good and His promises are for ever!.
Blessings to you all,
Keri
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Support Group
It was great to meet so many of you who are in need of this support group as much as I am. We will have another chance for people to sign up on Sunday at church. I am also hopeful that we will have others that will hear about it through word of mouth.
We haven't decided on a date and time yet, but are in the works for that. I do know that it will be one night a month to start and then we will go from there. If there is a need to meet more often we are certainly open to that.
I am excited to see where God leads us on this jouney together. Please keep checking the blog and I will also be contacting those of you who I have email addresses for.
Blessings,
Keri
We haven't decided on a date and time yet, but are in the works for that. I do know that it will be one night a month to start and then we will go from there. If there is a need to meet more often we are certainly open to that.
I am excited to see where God leads us on this jouney together. Please keep checking the blog and I will also be contacting those of you who I have email addresses for.
Blessings,
Keri
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