Ila Mae Waller - strong, dedicated, & faithful to the end.

It has been awhile since I posted. A lot has been going on around here.
Sunday, the 15th, the nursing home called the family in because my grandma wasn't doing well. We visited and waited, and grandma seemed to improve. She wasn't alert, but her stats were better. Stopped by on Monday evening, spent 5 hours watching and waiting again. No change. On Tues., I went by in the evening, and grandma wasn't doing well at all. Her body just kept breathing, even though it seemed she was already gone. She didn't respond at all, and at one point opened her eyes and starred at me for a min or so. I thought that was the end, but she, (being the stubborn, strong woman she is), kept going. Most of the family was there, my mom, aunt Sandy, many cousins, and once my uncle Greg and Aunt Darla arrived, it was late. The hospice nurse had visited as well. It was just a matter of time. Right before midnight, my grandma opened her eyes, looked at my uncle Greg, and let go. It was her time, she had lived a long, prosperous, and eventful life. She had inspired many, and taught us all the value of hard work, strength, respect, and faith. We all shared many memories and stories over those few last days of her life. Her funeral was nice, with many people sharing memories. She was featured in the Hutchinson News on Sunday with a very nice article about her life. She can now be with her family, friends, and son Marc, who left us a month ago.
My brother, Steph, and Mia were able to come home for the funeral. Mia has grown so much and is so active. She is still a very happy baby, and easy to please. She rarely fusses, and usually it's due to hunger. It was great to see them even under the circumstances.
In the midst of our family's loss, I was scheduled to have knee surgery. I went ahead with it, as I had already taken the following week off from work. My surgery was on the 19th, the funeral was on the 21st, and my bro left on the 23rd. Needless to say, I didn't get much rest until Tues. I practically spent much of Monday in bed, and am feeling much better.
Caden had his last game of the season last night. He didn't get to play, but was excited to score 4 pts in the JV game last week. I think he saw about 3min of playing time...
Our lives are so busy, but time keeps on going. Time is precious, and I hope we all can appreciate that. Losing a loved one makes us realize how important it is to share the time we have with those we love.

RIP Grandma. We love you.

Caden finished his career on the freshman team on this past Saturday. His final 2 games were not as we hoped, but he did his best and had the last rebound and shot of his last game. Even though the season was frustrating and trying, he battled through it. Final record was 3-12, I think. He did receive some exciting news as he was moved up to the JV squad for the remainder of the season. He will practice and suit-up for the last 3 games.
Kobe's season ended on the 7th, but he will play in another tourney next weekend. I vow to not yell at the ref's, unless my child gets punched again...
I am scheduled to have orthoscopic surgery on my R knee on this Thursday. The Dr. knows my meniscus needs repaired, however, it is a possibility my ACL is damaged. I have a week off from work, and am not looking forward to it. Anyway, Michael has been working like a dog today...He has done many loads of laundry, finally put away the Christmas decor, paid some bills(which he NEVER does), and is even cleaning up. He claims it's to be ready for my surgery, but little does he know, I have a list prepared for the 2 days he is off to take care of me...
Went to visit my grandma Waller today. The nursing home called my aunt Sandy and told her she wasn't doing so well. My mom, dad, uncle Greg, Aunt Darla, aunt Sandy, and Carrie were all there. She wasn't very responsive, very sleepy, and wouldn't eat. Hospice said they thought she was just exhausted. It's hard to watch her like that. She has lived longer than any of us ever thought she would.
I am so excited because I might be flying to Cali in March to visit Mia...oh and my bro and his wife. I hate that I am missing out on her life, and it kills me not being there. So, I might try to fly out on a Wed eve. and return home on Sun. Not sure yet, but I just don't think I can wait till June...

Until later-

Things have been so chaotic around here the past couple of weeks. Here are some highlights, which are not all proud moments. 1. Michael and I were ejected from a 5th grade basketball game in which my son was punched in the face with a fist (long story)... 2. Haven girls won the Wildcat Classic for the 1st time ever!... 3. Haven Boys won the Rupp Tourney in like a decade... 4. I get to have knee surgery on my GOOD knee soon... 5. I have started using a LASER on patients (ok, I know, who cares. Well, it's really cool and if you want to hear about it, then just ask)...6. LOST is back on tv.
This is what I do.
Peace.