My Grief Diary: Patina

December 28, 2015 Laurie

The sparkle is not gone. I polished them this morning since today would have been our 41st anniversary. I'm still wearing the rings Gary made for me. He hammered 50 cent coins into bands and then had a jeweler set his grandma's diamonds on them. On the inside you used to be able to see that they were minted in 1953 (my birth year) and read "In God we trust." but the words and numbers have long since worn away. Because they have been on my hand for so many years, and subjected to all of my activities, the prongs have needed adjustments, the bands have needed straightening, and a diamond was even knocked loose and replaced. I don't mind. I love that Gary made them for me and I still enjoy seeing them on my finger. They remind me of my loving husband, and our faithful God who enabled us to love and forgive for so long.

My ring has changed. So have I. Marriage changes things. Especially people. Gary's influence in my life has shaped me, and moved me towards Christ. I recently listened to some audio tapes of him when we were dating. (He didn't like to write letters so he sent me cassette tapes.) We were silly, in love, and immature in many ways, but one thing stood out so clearly. Jesus was the most important person in his life. I loved him for that. Over the years, God was kind to grow us both. Gary is now with the Lord, without any sin. One day I'll join him. I am grateful beyond words for the time we had together.

Yes, I miss him every day, but marriage is temporary. That is a good thing for all of us to remember. It is a constant temptation to make an idol of our spouses and let them become more important to us than God. When I am reunited with Gary it will not be as his wife. It will be as two grateful and amazed sinners who have been rescued from eternal punishment by their Savior and once shared a life together in "time." The following quote, from a book I'm loving right now, was written to parents who had lost a child, but as a wife who's lost a husband, I too have been blessed by it's weightiness.

"A husband, a wife, a child, are great, very great things, as they stand by other creatures; but surely they will seem little things, next to nothing, when the Lord shall set himself by them before the soul. And how know you but God has bidden these earthly comforts stand aside this day, to make way for heavenly ones? It may be God is coming to communicate himself more sweetly, more sensibly than ever to your souls; and these are the providences which must cast up and prepare the way of the Lord. Possibly God's meaning in their death is but this: [Husband], stand aside; you are in my way, and fill my place in your [wife's] heart." (Facing Grief, by John Flavel)

I'm halfway through the year of "FIRSTS"...First Father's day, first Birthday, first Thanksgiving, first Christmas, and first Anniversary...without my Gary. Tonight I have a special dinner planned with my daughter's family, so I have something to look forward to, and a new kind of special memory.

LIVE - REMEMBER - ENJOY

Antique appraisers and collectors use the term "patina" to describe the color change on a metal object that results from age. Patina typically increases the value. My rings cost very little, even by 1974 standards, but they are precious to me because of the promises they represent, and the memories they carry. They grow more beautiful to me with age, because they carry a story with them.

Tonight I went to dinner with April and Jon and the boys to celebrate God's faithfulness to Gary and I. God is attentive to my loss and is filling the void with other comforts so I'm in good hands. My prayer is that the loss of Gary will drive me even closer to the Lord. As I venture into the second half of the year of "FIRSTS," I pray that my love for Jesus will increase, since He is, and always will be, more than enough for this widow. There will be more layers of wear and polishing to be done in my heart as God continues to sanctify me.

"And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen and establish you. To him be the dominion forever and ever. Amen." 1 Peter 5:10-11

My Grief Diary: Crystal Clear

October 28, 2015 Laurie

It's been an emotional week, just thinking about Gary, missing him, and remembering how special he was to me. Something broke the other day, that was special to him. It's a big crystal (2") that refracts the light beautifully. Gary bought it back in the 70's and hung it in our bedroom window. Every sunshiny morning, it cast rainbows on the walls. When we moved to our condo, it made rainbows here too. He'd say, "We have to get up when the rainbow gets to the doorway." He would sometimes stand in just the right spot to get the colors right on his mouth, or nose to be funny. Our girls remember too. He LOVED that crystal and we loved that he loved it. Well, finally last week, the wire broke and it fell on the tile, leaving some big chips in it. I need to rehang it, and hopefully it will make even more of a light-show now.

But I got to thinking about something really neat. I was reading in Revelation 4 this morning. It describes the throne room of God. In his vision, the apostle John described the appearance of God , in terms of precious gems. "Immediately I was in the Spirit; and behold, a throne was standing in heaven, and One sitting on the throne. And He who was sitting was like a jasper stone (clear as crystal in Rev. 21:11) and a sardius in appearance; and there was a rainbow around the throne, like an emerald in appearance."

and MORE...

"and before the throne there was something like a sea of glass, like crystal; and in the center and around the throne, four living creatures full of eyes in front and behind. The first creature was like a lion, and the second creature like a calf, and the third creature had a face like that of a man, and the fourth creature was like a flying eagle. And the four living creatures, each one of them having six wings, are full of eyes around and within; and day and night they do not cease to say, “HOLY, HOLY, HOLY is THE LORD GOD, THE ALMIGHTY, WHO WAS AND WHO IS AND WHO IS TO COME.”

Such amazing, heavenly sights and sounds were hard for John to describe. Right now, Gary's eyes and ears are filled with the actual glories of God. I'm comforted with the little memory of how he loved the light and colors displayed by his crystal, but thanks to the written Word of God, I get to know just a little of what Gary is experiencing right now, and that is even better.

Head ‘em Up – Move ‘em Out

October 25, 2015 Laurie

I've been without my dad for just over a year. On Thursday I was getting ready to distribute some more of my dad's things, and got very involved looking at one of his collections. I enjoyed perusing his photos and his written thoughts. It made me miss him. I think I've mentioned that because of the events of the last year, I've barely had a chance to grieve my parents' loss, but the time I spent with his things the other day, was so nice. Part way through, I realized, that it was actually his birthday! He would have been 98.

My dad, Bill Ransom, was a fan of all things western. A few years after my parents retired to Montana, they got caught up in the excitement of the Montana Centennial celebrations. One of those was the recreation of a cattle drive, and they joined in the fun, in their way. I think some of you, at least, may enjoy reading my dad's account of the experience, as well as his photos. He and my mom had a wonderful way of looking at things, and Dad recorded everything with 35mm photos, 16mm movies, and writings. They appreciated history, authenticity, love of country, and their beautiful Montana. I am grateful for my dad's adventuresome spirit, and my mom for being such a good sport.

Here is the story which he wrote in 1989:

Head ‘em Up – Move ‘em Out

The Great Montana Centennial Cattle Drive

By Bill Ransom

A prairie dog rose up from the hole in the center of his earthen mound appearing to exercise a proper amount of caution. He was soon followed by another, both quickly turning their attention directly to the north. Obviously, the two of them heard of felt something Louise and I did not. In a matter of minutes it all became quite clear as our ears began to record a muted, yet powerful, sound. I easily likened it to something of a muffled drum-roll as it swept toward us through Montana’s wild prairie grass. Hoof beats – yes, thousands of them – coming from the north. Man oh man, this was it – this is what we had waited for. A cloud of dust rising over a near distant ridge told us we had chosen a good spot to witness the greatest cattle drive in history. Perhaps the strategy of leaving our car by the highway and hiking a mile and a half away from everyone and everything “1989” would pay off photographically as well as allowing us to better take a step back in time.

This was day three of Montana’s “piece de resistance” in celebration of its 100th year of statehood. This monumental undertaking gave birth to seemingly insurmountable problems in logistics, but after months of planning and using some “Old West” ingenuity, things dovetailed in time for the start. The drive had begun, appropriately, up on the Musselshell River at the town of Roundup on September 4th and would conclude on the 9th in Billings, 60 miles to the south.

Louise and I grabbed for our camera gear as the first of the herd began pouring over the ridge like lava moving fast through sagebrush and grass – lava wrapped in cowhide. This first bunch was comprised entirely of longhorns, descendants of that first herd driven up from Texas in 1866 by Nelson Story and his hands. Most of these were owned by Jim Leachman and were destined to come under the auctioneer’s gavel at the Metro Arena in Billings three days hence. Both cowboys and cowgirls controlled the herd, holding their positions at point, wing and drag.

The trail boss for the drive was Jay Stovall, and as the lead group of wranglers passed by, we tried to pick him out. We knew, too, that among this group of seasoned riders was Mike Story, great, great grandson of Nelson Story, and it was a sentimental invitation to participate that had brought him to this time and place. Riding wing near the front of the herd was the youngest of the cowboys, 11 year old Shawn Hando. It may have gotten him out of school for the week, but not out of doing a comprehensive report detailing his own experiences on the drive. To make manageable this giant herd of around 3,000 head, and for safety as well as for humanitarian considerations, the cattle were purposely strung out between 3 and 4 miles.

From our vantage point atop a small outcropping of rock, we could see over a mile and a half of the total herd. At one time I turned quickly to Louise and asked, “Did you hear that? Was that a gunshot?” We thought it might be someone letting go with his “45”, for many of the riders wore holstered six-guns. We heard the sharp crack again – than saw George Reed using his bullwhip as he kept the line moving steadily southward. One of the basic rules for participation in the drive was to dress in appropriate gear, as near as possible – no Adidas and no ‘visored’ caps touting “Joe’s Welding Shop” allowed.

Louise and I continued to look for photographic “targets of opportunity,” shooting both movie film and stills until the last of the cattle had passed, the last two riders carrying the American and official Montana Centennial flags, signaling the tail end of the herd. There had been intermittent clouds of dust, and now, as soon as it drifted away, we could catch our breath and enjoy our lunch which we had earlier stashed into a small backpack.

We decided this was a great place for our lunch break, for it seemed, in a way, like we were 100 miles from nowhere. It was so quiet now, and luck had provided a nice setting. We had some natural rock shelves to sit on, and being almost brick red, they made a sharp contrast to the subtle golden colors of the prairie grass. Behind us were a few scrub cedars while right in front of us were several bunches of late blooming wildflowers (Phacelia) and a couple of stalks of plains yucca. The latter being an often used detail on the canvases of famous Montana artist, C. M. Russell. Overhead the ‘big sky’ was still filled with gray clouds, and with the sun trying to burst through, we could see the storm threat of the night before was truly in retreat. What a nice Godsend, for when we had visited the trail drive night camp the past evening, we had found some dramatic and ominous weather conditions. While we munched away, we reminisced about the previous night.

This had been their second night camp, and we had driven north out of Billings 30 miles to locate it. We were dumbfounded to discover it spread over such a huge area on part of the Thirty Mile Ranch. We parked near the south end a bit off the highway among a collection of sage, cactus, grass, and only God knew the rest, but it was worth it. Using what expertise I could recall, I showed Louise the proper way to get through the barbed wire. Then, by revealing our most pleasant smiles, we were invited to enter the roped off section surrounding the first circle of about 14 wagons. We found an intense effort under way to get all the members of this group fed quickly as the projected storm became more of a threat. AS the wind picked up, a few horses wandered nervously away from the remuda (spare mounts) and into the circle of wagons. One beautiful pinto was whinnying and almost trampled a pitched sleeping tent, and that was enough for several wranglers to leave the chow line and haze them back to the rest of their kind. I would say there were at least 150 horses in that bunch alone, and none were corralled. The clouds darkened, and there was flapping canvas everywhere – the dusters some of the men wore – the wagon covers – and all the sleeping tents were alive in that chilling wind. I wondered how well everyone would sleep on this night.

We eased over to the chuck wagon and found three gals about ready to load up the plates of both hungry cowhands and others belonging to this circle wagons. There was a tall stack of plates, a huge coffee pot, and many cups - all in gray enamel. In fact, all the utensils looked very “western.” The only thing I saw that seemed out of place was a large tub filled with chopped mixed greens – obviously, the salad. Something smelled divine coming from the open grill, and I just had to ask one of the gals what the main course was, and she replied by holding up an oversized steak – and out came one word, “Buffalo!” Now, why didn’t I expect something like that?

We eased away so they could get on with their work, but not before noticing how everyone was smiling, joking, and helping each other with whatever was needed. We passed by the line of leather-tan faces, some needing a shave by now, and some showing a little fatigue – but everyone, just plain nice! One wrangler, L. G. from Billings, stopped to kid with us a bit about taking his picture, else he might have to use the six-gun on his hip. We complied. Then he said, “If you want to see something you’ll never see again, climb up over that rise, and look to the west.” We zipped up our parkas and trudged up past wagons, horses, and dozens of portable watering troughs for about 500 yards. Mr. G. knew exactly what he was saying. I could never properly describe what met our eyes. There were, scattered across that open ranchland, horses, cattle, tents, watering trucks, dozens of circles of wagons (called “pods’), people by the hundreds, and rows of portable toilets. We stood, amazed, and began to appreciate the word, “logistics.”

Some questions came to mind. Things like, “How could each of the participants get his own horses back, his own cattle claimed if they didn’t go to market, his wagon returned to the ranch?” There was over 15 million dollars’ worth of equipment and horses laying out there before us. But more than all this – what is there about this segment of Americana – western Americana, especially, that had inspired so many to spend so much to come so far to be a part of all this?

It was time we headed back to Billings, for by now the aroma of buffalo steaks had gotten our own stomachs to growling. We picked our way down the slope past tons of hay scattered out for both horse and cow. Most of it now being consumed as we carefully passed by. We noticed most of the cattle had individual brands, but also carried the temporary “M over 89” centennial brand, as well. This would turn out to be the longest trek of the drive; 18 miles, and over the most variable terrain, as it had a combination of being partly highway, partly prairie, much of it through the lower elevations of the Bull Mountains with their tight ravines. Were we ever glad we had decided to take in one of the night camps!

As we finished up our lunch of tuna sandwiches, olives and potato chips, we considered it nearly a crumb compared to the projected amounts of food the participants of the drive would require. Such a grocery list as follows: On Wednesday, Yellowstone Kelly’s Catering of Billings planned to serve 1200 pounds of baron of beef and half a ton of baked beans to their section of 1500 people. 300-500 gallons of coffee per day. Monday night (first camp) this group ate 3,000 pounds of beef ribs. That’s equal to four head of cattle on the hoof. Bob Hurd, lead cook of Chuck Wagon Catering out of Red Lodge, Montana even revealed his own recipe for biscuits and gravy. Now, just for once, forget the calories, and copy it down for some nice Sunday morning when you’re glad to be alive – then eat hearty!

Fry up an even mix of both pork sausage and diced ham. Then thicken it with a riux of butter and flour. Add some real cream along with a little milk. The cream smooths out the gravy, which is the secret to his successful breakfast of biscuits and gravy.

Iona Schmidt of Glendive, Montana offered her recipe for Creamery-Can Stew:

Corn sliced off the cob, wieners and polish sausage cut into chunks, sliced cabbage, small unpeeled whole potatoes, sliced carrots and beer. Into the pot with the lot – bring it to a boil and simmer for an hour.

On the cattle drives of a hundred years ago – they should have it so good.

Oh, gosh! Enough of that! We had to get ourselves off our rock seats and hike up another mile to where out tiny map (cut out of the Billings Gazette) showed the long line of wagons would be traveling through this section. By the time we reached the place that seemed best for pictures, 20 or 30 wagons had already passed, but that was O. K. because we still had around 300 more to go. By now, I realized I could have used more movie film to properly cover the seemingly endless wagon train, but I cranked up the camera while Louise began to shoot stills. We were getting more sun now, and grateful the weather front had swung into Canada.

As the riders and wagons rolled past us, we heard everything from “Why, Hello, there!” to “Hi, y’all!” Even “How did you two get clear out here?” “Nutty, I guess,” was all I could think of at the moment. From time to time the train would stop for a few minutes – once, because one of the wagons being double-teamed up a steep slope had turned over and there was an injury through not serious. During these short delays we had fun meeting both outriders on horseback and those along with the wagon ride. We were never disappointed in how everyone was dressed. Most fit the part perfectly, women wearing long frontier dresses, sun bonnets, leather boots, etc. Many of the dresses were hand-made just for the drive, and many children had made their dresses as school projects. Behind the reins, the men wore traditional felt hats, Levis, leather vests, etc. They came from every state, and many foreign countries too numerous to mention. The wagons, surreys, stage coaches, and chuck wagons were pulled by breeds of horses from Arabians, to Paints, Clydesdales to Belgians, and Tennessee Walkers to mules. Two, four – up to ten horse hitches pulled them to each night camp. As for the riders on horseback, it was pretty much like bringing their own pet. If so, then these pets were worth maybe $1500 to $2000 each, and they really showed it. I found it rather amazing, as I had to face the fact that there was such a varied cross-section of citizenry passing by me. I mean some were “for real” wranglers, but others were seniors, doctors, ranchers, college professors or teachers, and many youngsters – well, you get the idea.

I was soon out of movie film except for a few feet to cover the arrival of the cattle in Billings, so I helped Louise finish up the 35mm pictures, and then we crossed back through the string of wagons, picking our way down the long slope to our car that now seemed at least beyond the horizon. After a few minutes of working our way through the sage, we passed underneath several pine trees that had dropped an array of perfect pine cones. We thought of collecting some, but figured we had our hands full, so those will not become a part of our Christmas wreath. We were next going down a long shallow draw, and I presented Louise the scenario of someone lost and in this same coulee, and wondering what they might think if they just climbed up the 20 or 30 feet to peer over the rim and suddenly see all those wagons, men and horses stretched out for miles. What an episode for Twilight Zone! Had I, myself, lived a time warp the last few hours? Had my folks given me a dime so I could go to the Saturday matinee to watch Tom Mix or Hoot Gibson or Ken Maynard in one of so many westerns I lived to see at a cost of mowing the lawn? Anyway, the difference was certainly in “living color,” and we felt the rewards were worth whatever our efforts had been.

In passing by our earlier lunch spot, we also walked near the prairie dog mound. It didn’t seem any the worse for wear, but the occupants were nowhere to be seen. I think they were deep down in their burrow, still wondering what in the world all the commotion was about. I’m sure of one thing – they’d never forget it. Would we?

I love you Dad!

Success To Spare

October 21, 2015 Laurie

A few days ago I had the privilege of telling our story to a group of ladies at our church about our 9-year trial. I was asked to share how God had helped us along the way. It's been 5 months since Gary went to Heaven and it was the first time I'd gathered my thoughts about our years with Alzheimer's Disease as a whole, and the key ways our Lord impacted us during that time. It's a story of God's power on display through human weakness. If you would like to listen, click on the photo of Gary and I below. (It's audio of my talk along with a slideshow of the photos I showed during my talk.) OR, If you would rather read the notes of my talk they are posted below the photo.

To listen to the talk, click this photo: (If you are viewing this in an email, you may need to view in your browser.

To read my notes, start here:

And He has said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you for power is perfected in weakness.” Most gladly therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me. Therefore I am well content with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions, with difficulties, for Christ’s sake; for when I am weak, then I am strong.” 2 Corinthians 12:9-10

I’m so happy to be here tonight to BOAST about my weaknesses because Christ used them to display His power. In order to do that, I need to go back a few years so you can see how God gave us more than we needed to succeed. Tonight you’re going to hear a sad story, but I don’t want you to be sad. You may be afraid that something like this would happen to you, but I don’t want you to fear. You may be right in the middle of something just as hard or harder, but I don’t want you to feel overwhelmed. I want to encourage you. I want to bring us to the God of grace who wants to strengthen you. I want you to smile with me at our great God, because I’m going to tell you what He has done.

40 years ago...

my husband and I promised God that we would love and serve each other no matter what. “For better or worse. For richer or poorer. In sickness and in health.” Looking back, we are grateful to God for our daughters, their husbands, and our grandchildren. We began attending Grace about 34 years ago and loved serving in the college ministry here for many years. Gary was an electrical contractor and I helped him with his business. We lived in the same home our entire marriage and had no plans to leave it ever. We were enjoying our grandkids and looked forward to travels to visit family and friends. Our lives were full and like most people, we had plans and dreams for the future. Our plans were not to be.

About 9 years ago, Gary began to have difficulty with his thinking, particularly with problem-solving. This showed up in his work first and then other areas. Because of some other things going on right then, we both wrote it off to his being over-worked and super busy, but the cognitive problems got worse. We sought medical help. At this point, it was clear, he had “mild cognitive impairment” so there were months and months of medical and psychological tests to discover the cause, and after eliminating a long list of possibilities, it was determined that he had Early Onset Alzheimer’s Type Dementia. He was only 57. (Dementia is a general term for a decline in mental ability severe enough to interfere with daily life. Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia and is rarely contracted under age 60. Dementia is an overall term that describes a wide range of symptoms associated with a decline in memory or other thinking skills severe enough to reduce a person's ability to perform everyday activities. I would guess that most of you have someone in your family or know someone who has dementia of some form. As the Baby Boomers age, there are going to be more and more who suffer with it.)

Shortly after Gary’s diagnosis...

he asked me to find the Alzheimer’s Association website so he could read about the typical symptoms of his disease. (Memory Loss, Confusion, Personality changes, Repetitive behavior, Loss of communication, and the ability to walk, sit or control his body. Eventually he would need full time assistance with everything.) I watched him read the list, with tears in his eyes. He never asked about it again but a few days later he prayed with our friends and asked God “that during his illness, he never do anything that would dishonor the Lord.” He feared that as he would lose control of his mind, he would do something sinful, but Gary didn’t panic, get angry at God, or beg Him to take it away. He submitted himself to God’s plan for him. Gary was content with the biggest, scariest trial he would ever face. It was scary for both of us because we knew what would likely happen as the disease would progress, and we would begin the “long goodbye.” But even so, back in 2010, Gary shared the Lord with our 4 year old granddaughter. He was barely speaking at the time when he very clearly said to her… ”When you get to know my Jesus, it’s gonna be great!”

"I am well content with weaknesses..."

I wasn’t always well content…I had my own set of fears.

Would we both be unselfish enough to go through this trial in a way that pleases the Lord?

I would have to give up my time, pursuits, energy for the sake of serving Gary completely. He would have to give up the things he loved, his work, his home, his fish pond. Gary’s responsibilities were added to my own, and it was a crushing weight. The transition into my new role was not always smooth.

Early on someone gave me a wonderful book by Robertson McQuilken who gave up his career in order to care for his wife with dementia, because of his vows of love before God. This book set the tone for me. God used this man’s wonderful example to encourage unselfishness in my life. This trial really revealed the idols in my heart that were stealing my worship away from God. I found that “keeping things the same and comfortable” was an idol in my life. At times I resisted the changes coming. It was a grace of God that He revealed this to me.

Would I be able to keep Gary at home with me or would he need a nursing home?

I couldn’t bear the thought of him not being with me, yet what if I wasn’t capable of caring for him.

Would I keep loving Gary when he no longer knows me? How do you love completely with no return on that love?

He was already getting confused about who I was. He thought I had a twin sister who was trying to come between us. Between these episodes and the loss of his abilities to care for himself, there were many tears and prayers shed together. The losses were painful. I was in desperate need of grace and strength.

“I am well content with distresses.”

On top of the personal losses, there were financial losses.

We had financial needs. – Recently I was going over the events of the early years of the trial. Things were so difficult then. With Gary’s diminished capacity to work, we needed extra help to keep business alive, until we knew what was wrong. His business had been suffering for multiple reasons, but mostly because of his increasing mental problems. There was a real estate investment we had made before we knew Gary was sick, and it became a financial burden because Gary couldn’t keep up with it. We were financially unprepared for Gary to stop working. Once we knew what was wrong with Gary, we closed our business but that meant we lost our medical insurance as well as income. We were left with no resources of our own, and had to depend completely on God to care for us. HE DID. There were financial gifts and practical helps abounding from the body of Christ.

God showed us that He was listening to my cries for help in a remarkable way. – I decided to apply for a job at our local Starbucks. For minimal hours there were full benefits, so we could get our medical insurance. It was close to our home and Gary could stay alone for short periods at that time. I don’t know how I got the job, apart from the Lord. There was a group interview with about 15 young people. Around the circle of applicants we were all asked ‘Why we wanted to work for Starbucks.’ Many noble answers were given, such as ‘wanting to be part of the SB community,’ or ‘wanting to change the world’ by selling such a good product that is fairly traded, and helping third world farmers. When it came round to me I said, “I really need a part time job, close to home that provides medical benefits.” The next day I got a call from the local store manager, and I was hired. I asked for the opening shift so I could get home to Gary when he was waking up. I was there for two years while we waited for Gary’s Medicare to begin. Though it was not an easy job, it was perfectly tailored to our needs, by the One who upholds us with his strong arm.

Those years were exhausting. – I had to be at work from 4:00 am -8:00 am every weekday. When home I was liquidating Gary’s electrical inventory, tools and truck. There were many medical appts., as well as my regular activities. On top of that, our house was becoming a burden, since Gary was unable to take care of all the maintenance issues in the house and garden. I'd get off work, come home and mow the lawn or fix broken sprinklers...the things Gary used to do. I decided we should downsize and sell our beloved home. That added more work to do as we prepared it to sell. Looking back, it is amazing to me that I was able to persevere during these two years. Only by God’s strength.

“I am well content with difficulties.”

What seemed difficult for us, was easy for God.

There were so many difficult unknowns. How would we survive financially? Gary was confused about who I was. Our ministry at Grace was fading away. We ended up switching from College Ministry to Mainstream because Gary couldn’t keep up with the pace and the constantly changing faces of the college students any more. For instance, he used to be involved in the lives of the students, having conversations on a Sunday morning, but he increasingly withdrew, getting his coffee and donut and sitting down alone. It seemed our usefulness in the body of Christ was ending. I didn’t know that God was preparing us for a future ministry. I will tell you about it later.

In 2010 we moved to a smaller place that I could manage. At the beginning Gary and I went for walks and even took a couple of trips across country to see family, but his physical difficulties progressed, confusion got worse and soon we were staying close to home, limiting our days out. Gary’s world got smaller and smaller. So mine did too. I was depressed for several weeks over how Gary was declining so rapidly. This verse really ministered to my heart then, and repeatedly since.

“He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him over for us all, how will He not also with Him freely give us all things?” Romans 8:32

If God gave the very greatest gift for our good, then everything else He gives is good for us too. Through redirecting my thinking to what was true, God healed my heart and restored my joy. I referred back to this verse many times during the ensuing years.

One year later

in 2011, my sweet parents (both in their 90’s) moved in across the street. It was such a blessing to have them nearby but as their needs increased over the next three years, a new layer of responsibility was laid upon our family. I was able to help them some, but eventually caregivers were needed for them as well as Gary. During the next 3 years, even though there were ups and downs, we settled into our trial. It was at this time that God did an amazing thing. In addition to 6 caregiving hours, Gary and I received wonderful support from our Bible Study and other friends at church. But on the days I was alone with him, Gary was needing more assistance than I could give him. Most of the time, Gary was content to sit in his recliner and listen to music or work with his "projects." But when I needed to move Gary to the restroom, or in or out of the car, or getting ready for bed, or up in the morning, my body was getting hurt. The wheel chair was heavy. My hands hurt, trying to help Gary dress, as he gripped the fabric. Supporting him as he “scissor stepped” was hurting my shoulder. Something needed to change… I told the family: "What we really need is a young man with a strong back who can help with sporadic physical and personal needs throughout the day...10-15 minute segments and then go. It doesn't make financial sense to hire someone to be here all the time, since caregivers need a 3 hour minimum and they'd be sitting twiddling their thumbs 90% of the time." Well of course that seemed impossible. The timing seemed right for a live-in helper, but we couldn't even think of the right type of person. A student would be gone too much. A retired person likely lacks strength. The Lord had provided the room, but who could fill the bill? We ended the discussion with "We'll just have to keep praying about it, and see if the Lord will work it out.”

Just a few days later, April called. A young man in their college ministry in Florida who had been praying for us, and following my blog, said he’d really like to come out to California to help you both. He wondered if you'd like his help?" He’s a CNA, works from home, loves Jesus, responsible, young, strong, and willing to exchange rent for care. No one suggested this to him. God prompted him to come to our aid. Jason was with us during a very important transitional time and served us wholeheartedly during those months. He forever endeared himself to our family. He will always be a reminder that... “God is intimately acquainted with all my ways.” Ps. 139

God had been graciously strengthening us for seven years. He proved His power in our lives in each daunting situation. I think it was to prepare us for 2014. We would need it more than ever. It is hard to describe the stresses and losses of last year. Even with all the good help from family, friends, and caregivers, there were times I wondered how I could manage to help all three of my dear ones. I felt like I was putting out fires constantly. For most of the year I was managing 9 caregivers between the two households. Gary became completely bed-bound, sleeping comfortably 22 hours a day, only awake while being fed his pureed food or having his teeth brushed. On the rare occasion he actually opened his eyes he did not appear to recognize me. He could do nothing for himself. My father was bed bound from a small hip fracture, and my mother was hospitalized with a heart condition. Things deteriorated and by October, both of my parents were in Heaven. There was much to do in planning their memorial services, settling their affairs and selling their home. There was little time to grieve their loss. I found myself increasingly lonely for Gary, sad about his condition, and overwhelmed with the pace of life and big decisions to be made throughout the year.

Remember…2 Corinthians…

“When I am weak, then I am strong.” I was strengthened over and over. In fact God gave me victory over these things. Here’s how:

“In all these things we over-whelmingly conquer through Him who loved us.”

Romans 8:35-37- Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Will tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? Just as it is written, ‘For Your sake we are being put to death all day long; We were considered as sheep to be slaughtered.’ But in all these things we overwhelmingly conquer through Him who loved us.

Pastor John explained in his commentary that to "overwhelmingly conquer" means to “Over conquer.” It's having victory with "success to spare." If we belong to Christ, He will make us victorious in our weaknesses.

Yes, I was lonely.

Since 2011 there had been no more “I love yous,” but I found that God was enough. When the feelings of loneliness rose up, I called a family member or friend, to ask for prayer. I remembered Romans 8:32; that God made the greatest sacrifice and would fill the voids in my heart. I did not despair. He heard every cry of my heart and provided encouragement every time I needed it. It might be a special verse, note from a friend, or remembrance of something Gary had said in the past. Remember that at the beginning I feared that I wouldn’t be able to love Gary enough. God gave me more love than ever for Gary. That’s SUCCESS TO SPARE!

Yes, I was sad.

Gary’s ability to read, talk, smile, understand, steadily diminished for years. Thankfully, he was comfortable and peaceful, but watching his helplessness was heart wrenching at times. Early on, by GRACE, I began “thinking about what is true.” (Phil.4) This trial was not going to go away. I tried to embrace that fact, and began to think of ways to give Gary a meaningful life. (flip book, memory books, gadget box) This has turned into ministry on my website. It gave me SO MUCH JOY to do these things for Gary. GOD CONQUERED SADNESS WITH JOY! That’s SUCCESS TO SPARE

Yes, I was easily overwhelmed and uncertain.

2014 was a rollercoaster ride. It is hard to pace your life, when you don’t know how much longer your dear loved ones will be alive. There were multiple events across the street. My mom had heart problems, my dad was falling and ended up with a hip fracture and bed bound for 6 weeks. The days with my parents were precious and I’m so glad they were nearby. I would not have been able to travel to be with them. During this crazy time, my health began to give me trouble. Headaches, blood pressure, weight gain, allergies, neck pain. I was encouraged to get refreshment in order to not “burn out” so I knew I needed to carry on with my life a little. I enjoyed a couple of small trips last year, some special weddings, and kept up with my artwork which is always a sweet time for me to think and relax. I feel like I’ve been in a time capsule for years and lost time with my family and friends, especially the grandkids. Gary’s condition was fairly stable as he slowly declined, but precarious. Some event would occur that would take his life. A bed sore could lead to a systemic infection. Aspirating his food or drink could lead to pneumonia. Failure to swallow, could lead to starvation. He was so weak, that I began praying that God would take him home in God’s perfect time. On the other side of this trial, He is giving me back the postponed relationships and my body is recovering. GOD CONQUERED UNCERTAINTY WITH TRUST. That’s SUCCESS TO SPARE!

Yes, I was in need of wisdom.

There were so many big decisions to be made, and my “head” couldn’t help me. (I could use the entire evening on this point alone, but will just give you a couple of examples.) Should I continue going to church on Sundays without Gary? Should Mom and Dad go to assisted living? How many caregivers could they afford to hire? What about “end of life” planning? What would Gary want? How long should my mom be on life support? After Mom died, should my Dad live with me? When should my dad go into Hospice care? Etc., Etc.

Hooray for James 1:5. “But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach and it will be given to him.” Absolutely true! Every time I faced a big decision, the Lord gave me the wisdom I was asking for.

Gary set the example for me way back in 2007. It was a time when he was confused about my identity, and was unsure if he could trust me to sign a Social Security form I’d asked him to. He went missing one day and 45 minutes later I got a call from our pastor, Rick Holland. Gary was in his office getting his advice, making sure it was ok to sign. Rick reassured him and Gary signed and came home. That incident, laid the groundwork for me when up against big decisions throughout the following years. I will never forget it. GO TO YOUR ELDERS! Heb 13:17 “they keep watch over your souls as those who will give an account.”

Many decisions I needed to make involved our family. Thankfully, my daughters and their husbands are all believers so their advice was invaluable to me as well. We came together over many issues to see what the Word of God said. One of them helped me think through my concerns with going to church without Gary. Leaving Gary with a caregiver on a Sunday morning was one of the hardest things I had to do. I would be a weeping mess during the hymns. Why? Grateful to be there, praising God’s character, but sad to leave Gary at home after so many years of being at Grace together. But God wants us to meet together with the body on the Lord’s Day. By His Grace, I chose to obey, and it was such a blessing every Sunday morning to know I was pleasing God.

GOD CONQUERED MY QUESTIONS WITH BIBLICAL ADVICE. That’s SUCCESS TO SPARE!

In all these things...

'GARY AND LAURIE, overwhelmingly conquer through Him who loved us.’

Our Pastor, JOHN MACARTHUR wrote… “Just as we can only love God because he first loved us, we can only hold on to God because he holds on to us. We can survive any threatening circumstance, and overcome any spiritual obstacle that the world or Satan puts in our way because…‘in all these things, we overwhelmingly conquer through Him who loved us.’ Romans 8:37”

Continuing in Romans 8, For I am convinced that neither death (Gary’s death) nor life (my life alone) nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present (our trial, your trial), nor things to come (the unknowns we fear), nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, (even Alzheimer’s Disease) will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Forty years ago...

I said “…till death do us part.” Five months ago God parted us and I said “good-bye” to my Gary. Gary is in Heaven with his Savior. He is fine now, "extremely fine.” He is finally "home" and I am so relieved and thrilled for him. His mind is whole. He is experiencing joy like never before, because, at the beginning of his Alzheimer’s, he wrote in his own words…

“I believe in the Lord Jesus Christ…to be all He represented Himself to be in the Bible. The Christ, the Son of God. I believe Him to be the soon and coming King. I am not a believer by birth, nor can I be without God enabling me. Jesus has forgiven all my sins, and has made me a member of His family.” G.P.

One of his favorite verses is:

Romans 6:23 - “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

If you don’t know Jesus, and have not yet turned from your sins, and submitted to His Lordship in your life, please don’t delay in making things right with God, through Christ. There is no victory, no success apart from Him.

Meanwhile, my earthly life goes on.

My hopes of Gary smiling at me, or saying a word, or noticing if I walk through the room, are over. But now there is something new. Feelings of joy and satisfaction, for Gary's new condition. I can’t wait to see Gary again, in Glory, where he and I will be face to face with the One who made it possible for us to keep our vows and love each other “no matter what.” I'm forever grateful to God for allowing us to travel this road together upheld and strengthened by the love of God.

My 40 year ministry of serving my husband is over. God has me changing gears and it feels odd. Please pray for me going forward. As I grieve the loss of my Gary, I want to grieve in a way that brings God the attention and honor He deserves, letting others know that God is more than enough for any problem or loss, for those who are truly His. It’s easy to get ‘self-focused’ as a new widow, with many options before me. I want to make the best use of this time for the Kingdom. The faithfulness of God has not diminished just because Gary is not here with me anymore. God was faithful and good to Gary. That was evident in his life. The same faithful and good God is MY God too. I am excited to see how else He will continue to display His strength through my weakness.

One of the things I’m most looking forward to is being useful at our Alzheimer’s Dementia ministry at GCC. We meet on the last Saturday morning of each month, for breakfast, spiritual encouragement, and prayer. We offer others spiritual support. Please pray for this very special ministry. There are no doubt many in our church who are touched by dementia, and could use the spiritual refreshment. Perhaps you would like a place to serve. Some in our group have a hard time coming to church, because there’s no one to sit with their loved one at home for a couple hours, or assist them on the campus. (i.e. You can’t drop off a loved one with dementia while you go park. They will wander away.) Others need help applying online for govt. services. The needs of primary caregivers are great and always changing. If you believe the Lord would want to use you to help us, please join us. Please let others know about this and encourage loved ones to come.

Pastor Rick McLean gives oversight to our group at Grace Community Church. 818-909-5519

I love sharing the practical things I’ve learned in caring for Gary. I've made many of them available in the Alzheimer's Resources section of my website.

I can’t think of a better way to finish our time together, than by reading what Susannah Spurgeon wrote after the death of her husband, and preacher, Charles Spurgeon.

I have traveled far now on life's journey; and, having climbed one of the few remaining hills between earth and Heaven, I stand awhile on this vantage-ground, and look back across the country through which the Lord has led me.

A well-defined pathway is visible, but it appears devious and wandering; sometimes skirting a mountain-top, whence one could catch glimpses of "the land that is very far off"; and, further on, descending into a valley shadowed by clouds and darkness. At one time, it runs along amidst steep places, and overhanging rocks; at another time, it winds across an open plain, brilliant with the sunshine of goodness and mercy, and fanned by breezes which are wafted from the fields of Heaven.

There are flowers of joy and love growing all along the way, even in the dark places; and "trees which the Lord has planted," give shade and shelter from too great heat.

I can see two pilgrims treading this highway of life together, hand in hand—heart linked to heart. True, they have had rivers to ford, and mountains to cross, and fierce enemies to fight, and many dangers to go through; but their Guide was watchful, their Deliverer unfailing, and of them it might truly be said, "In all their suffering he also suffered, and he personally rescued them. In his love and mercy he redeemed them. He lifted them up and carried them through all the years."

Mostly, they went on their way singing; and for one of them, at least, there was no joy greater than to tell others of the grace and glory of the blessed King to whose land He was hastening. And when he thus spoke, the power of the Lord was seen, and the angels rejoiced over repenting sinners.

But, at last, they came to a place on the road where two ways met; and here, amidst the terrors of a storm such as they had never before encountered, they parted company—the one being caught up to the invisible glory—the other, battered and bruised by the awful tempest, henceforth toiling along the road—alone.

But the "goodness and mercy" which, for so many years, had followed the two travelers, did not leave the solitary one; rather did the tenderness of the Lord "lead on softly," and choose green pastures for the tired feet, and still waters for the solace and refreshment of His trembling child. He gave, moreover, into her hands a solemn charge—to help fellow-pilgrims along the road, filling her life with blessed interest, and healing her own deep sorrow by giving her power to relieve and comfort others.

Please pray for me and yourselves as well, that God’s strength would be abundantly displayed through our weaknesses. Let us anticipate how our Lord will give us success to spare…enough for our own difficulties, with an overflow to help others also.

“in all these things, we overwhelmingly conquer through Him who loved us.”

That’s Success To Spare!

I would love to hear how God has strengthened you in your weakness, if you'd like to leave a comment below...

My Grief Diary - Sorrow Into Joy

August 30, 2015 Laurie

A few days ago, I was holding a pair of Gary's shoes, and tearing up. I was getting ready to put them into a box of his special clothes that I can't bear to part with right now...maybe never. Most of his clothes have been given away over the last few years as he became more and more immobile, and eventually bed bound, but there were still a few things in the closet, and so I went through them again. Clothes are personal. The memories of our loved ones in their "favorites" are etched in our minds. Shoes are just shoes, but my husband wore THOSE shoes. The shoes touched Gary and I can touch them. My sorrow over Gary's absence is never far away. It is real. It is fresh and it doesn't take much to pull it up to the surface.

"...you will grieve, but your grief will be turned into joy."

Jesus said this to His sad disciples when He spoke of leaving them. (John 16) They had given up their lives to be with Him and now He was going to be departing. They were confused, and very soon would be devastated as they would see him tortured and executed. But, their grief would be short-lived because He was going to be raised from the dead and come back again. Jesus was going to take the VERY EVENT that caused their greatest sorrow, His death on the cross, and use THAT SAME EVENT to cause their greatest joy, their eternal salvation. (Great sermon on this HERE. )

I want to do grief right. I'm a Christian. That means Jesus lives inside my soul. Here's a cool thought. When I am praying to the Lord, Gary while right now in the presence of the Lord, may very well be talking to Him too. At the same time. God has both of us in His hands. He's in between us and the Center of us. That is what we always wanted and what we promised when we vowed our vows. God is my only real-time connection to Gary now. I can't talk to Gary anymore in this life and would not even try to. Gary is having his very best possible life, present with the Lord. Someday I will be there too, but I just think it's so neat that even though our marriage is over, and we are no longer one flesh, we are each absorbed with our Savior. Jesus will be our main focal point for eternity. That's not always easy for me, but it IS easy for Gary now, without the distractions of this life. It's hard to describe, but in a tiny way it's similar to this: Do you know how exciting it is to share a great experience with someone? Taking in the scope of the Grand Canyon, watching your favorite team win, enjoying a wonderful concert together. It's a bonding that occurs over a shared experience. Gary and I are both loving God at the same time. He in the eternal presence of the Lord, and me from the limits of this life.

Standing there in my room holding Gary's shoes, God turned my sorrow into joy. He didn't REPLACE my grief over missing Gary with something "happy." Instead he reminded me that just as God was our Savior and the center of our marriage, He still is the One who receives our worship, gratitude and love. Because He loved us first, we love Him and we loved each other. God has repeatedly TRANSFORMED my SADNESS into JOY in the last three months without Gary. It's not a one time thing. Therefore, I'm committed to keep on looking to Him for joy and comfort in the midst of the unavoidable grief when it shows up.

By the way, there are still a few shirts hanging in the closet so I can touch them when I want, and remember including the orange shirt he's wearing in the photo.

"Hear, O LORD, and be gracious to me; O LORD, be my helper. You have turned for me my mourning into dancing; You have loosed my sackcloth and girded me with gladness, that my soul may sing praise to You and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give thanks to You forever."

Psalm 30:10-12

Gary's Memorial Service can be viewed HERE.

My Grief Diary - Staying Busy

August 3, 2015 Laurie

Projects help. Tackling something I've been ignoring, feels good. Accomplishing a goal is satisfying. Being busy is a distraction from the sadness of Gary's absence. A couple of weeks ago I freshened up my bedroom with paint, a new bed, and pretty bedspread, I really had fun with this after so long with a hospital bed, and other medical things dominating our space. Making Gary's eulogy video was a big project which I loved doing. I guess necessary paperwork and legal things are a kind of "project" too, although, not my favorite. Social Security had to be contacted, other things had to be cancelled or changed. The loss of a spouse requires this kind of activity and there's been PLENTY of it. I've been pretty busy.

Most recently, the project was a memorial album to contain all the lovely notes, cards and photos from Gary's memorial service. After taking over my table for a couple of days, it is done. I enjoyed putting it together and reading some of those lovely and encouraging notes for the first time. It looks great and if you come over you will see it all finished on my coffee table.

...about staying busy...

It's easy to obsess about finishing something that is occupying my mind and house so sometimes the daily tasks fall by the wayside.

I am really enjoying my new freedoms and the opportunity to tackle some fun projects but after the project ends, with more time to think, I am sometimes hit with sad moments.

I am wondering how to balance my time. When I was caring for Gary, I knew EXACTLY what God wanted me to do with my time. But now...for the time being, I am "doing the next thing" and praying for direction for the big picture.

I am doing well, but don't feel as though I have found the balance yet. Staying "busy" is fun and distracting, but I want to be thoughtful like David. "Surely I have composed and quieted my soul; like a weaned child rests against his mother, my soul is like a weaned child within me." Psalm 131 I get that it is important for me to take the time to feel but I want to feel with right perspective.

an example from last weekend...

I had a fleeting moment of sadness and got misty yesterday in our Fellowship group at church. I was passing the weekly sign-in list of names to my daughter, Sarah, and noted to her that her dad's name is no longer there. She made the comment that his name is on a much better list. That made me smile. She was referring to the Lamb's Book of Life. "He (Jesus) said to them....rejoice that your names are recorded in heaven." Luke 10:20. Good theology is encouraging in a time of grief.

Seeking Caregivers?

July 11, 2015 Laurie

"WHERE DID YOU GET YOUR GREAT CAREGIVERS?"

From those seeking practical dementia related advice, that’s my most Frequently Asked Question to date. The answer is, “lots of places.” Over the years, Gary’s care needs ranged from accompanying him on a walk with him, to complete physical care. We had a team of family, friends, volunteers from church, agency care givers, private hire care givers and home health aides (through hospice).

Perhaps you can no longer leave your loved one alone. You need to go to work, or need respite time. You are ready to hire a care giver. I hope that my experiences will be helpful as you navigate this new season in your family’s life.

For both my parents (in their 90’s) and Gary, I have used a care giving agency AND have hired my own caregivers. Between my mom and dad, and Gary, I was managing eight caregivers concurrently, for over a year. There are benefits and challenges with each method. Mainly it depends on your availability and your personality.

Many think it is not possible to have private pay caregivers and do it legally, without paying “cash under the table” to hide the income, but this is not true. Payroll can be done properly with use of an online payroll system. There are many payroll services, but I used Intuit.com $20/month. At hiring time, I entered the employee’s information, then each week, entered their hours and mileage if any. Intuit generated the pay stub and I wrote the check. Caregivers are classified as Household Employees by the IRS so you don’t have to withhold their personal income tax. You DO however have to withhold and contribute for FICA (Social Security and Medicare) and a few other taxes, but like I said, Intuit does all this calculating for you. Then they generate the Quarterly tax forms when they are due.

These observations are based on my experience and are intended as an overview. Please do your own research regarding your own situation.

This entire post (including the table below) is available as a pdf file. To print, click HERE.

A couple of suggestions to get started if you choose to…

Use an agency

1. Ask around for some word-of-mouth recommendations.

2. Call the agency to set up an interview.

OR...Hire your own caregivers

1. Be sure you have the personality to hire and fire, keep records, and do payroll, AND the connections where you can find some good, qualified people. I personally would be hesitant to advertise in the paper. I met someone in our Alz. support ministry at our church, and also advertised for caregivers in our church opportunity sheet. Either way, you’ll need to manage the caregivers, by training them to the specifics that your loved one needs. (Their tastes in food, music, tv, hobbies, etc.)

2. Call your homeowner’s insurance. Ask them if they cover household workers if they get injured in your home

3. Ask around. Talk to lots of friends and acquaintances. Maybe someone knows someone…etc. Run an ad in your church opportunity sheet. State the job requirements, hours rate of pay, and the qualifications you require.

SAMPLE: Elderly couple in Santa Clarita, need part time caregiver. Must be able to assist with transfers from bed to wheelchair, provide transportation to appointments, (fit wheelchair/walker in trunk and have a good driving record. Assistance with phone calls. Housekeeping (laundry, meals, cleaning, etc). Assistance with bathing. Certified Nursing Assistant level of experience preferred but not required. Must have strong communication skills. Character and/or professional references needed. Rate: $10/hour and $.50 per mile for use of car. 2-3 days needed. (Especially weekends) 7:00am-3:30pm. Payroll status: “Household employee” for tax purposes. Contact information: (your info here)

4. Integrate the paid caregivers with the free services available. Friends or family who offer to help regularly, Hospice aids (if hospice is involved) should be worked into the routine for your loved one. If a friend has offered to help you on a regular basis, reduce your care giving needs by that amount of time.

5. Be flexible. There may be seasons when an agency is a better fit than a private caregiver. For instance, most of our caregivers were folks from our church, so when it became impossible for Gary to attend church with me, we had an agency caregiver who was willing to work on Sundays.

6. Build a team. We started with one agency caregiver, and as Gary’s needs increased over several years, we eventually had four plus a hospice aide. If someone was sick, or planning to be out of town, it gave me some others to call on. Sometimes my plans had to be changed, because there was no one available, but that was true with the agency too.

Take your time in deciding what to do. It may feel like you must decide immediately but a little more thought sometimes is just what you need to be confident with your decision. As with anything new, there is an adjustment period. Give your choice a chance to work out, before you panic and go back to "square one." Communicate with your new care giver to help them understand your loved one. I truly hope you have benefited by our experiences. Gary would be pleased as well.

Please feel free to ask questions in the comments below.

My Grief Diary - A Special Meal

June 30, 2015 Laurie

(NOTE: If you're looking for Gary's Memorial Video, you can find it on the Home page.)

I've been a widow for six weeks. My encounters with grief have been varied and haphazard. Sometimes sorrow surprises me, and at other times it builds up slowly.

I don't have a clear view of what to expect, since everyone grieves differently but occasionally I hope to share a bit of what it's like, for me, and how I'm doing. Actually, I've been grieving for many years. Every time Gary reached a new limitation, I was sad for a time. New losses brought new kinds of sorrow, but once we adjusted to our new situation, I found we could flourish within our limitations. I'm expecting that process to continue.

Two days after Gary went to Heaven, I suggested that our family go to dinner at Gary's favorite restaurant. "Damon's Steakhouse" has been a Glendale landmark since 1937, which explains why Gary's dad, Tom, used to go there on dates. Gary and I used to go there on dates too. In 1980 because of the Glendale Galleria project, Damon's moved to it's current location on Brand. (Behind the Center Theater and right next to Porto's) Our family considered it THE place to go for celebrations.

Somehow, it seemed strangely important to go there and eat a Top Sirloin, stuffed baked potato, salad (tossed at the table and with amazing dressing) and garlic cheese bread "for Gary." I wasn't sure how emotional I would be, but I decided to "not care" and go anyway.

The fun 50's Tiki-style motif was not lost on the kids. While we waited for our food, we walked around and looked at the huge salt water aquarium and shell lamps. There's even an outrigger canoe hanging from the ceiling with monkeys in it. Once the food arrived and after we prayed, we dug in. It was then that I was overwhelmed with joy mingled with missing my love. I looked around the table at our dear ones, and wished Gary was with us, but at the same time I was so happy we were all together in one of Gary's favorite places. So amongst my tears and smiles, memories flooded back into my mind. Romantic dinners, anniversaries, birthday celebrations... Gary, April and I had even had dinner there on our way to the hospital while awaiting the birth of Sarah's firstborn.

The last time we were there was our anniversary in 2010, when Gary was in the middle stages of Alzheimer's. The evening had a rough start, but eventually he (and I) both enjoyed ourselves, even though I knew at the time, it would likely be our last meal at Damon's together. see photo ->

It's OK

As a grieving widow, I'm learning that it's ok to cry AND it's ok to laugh. Remembering is a really good thing to do because it keeps the joy in your life along with the inevitable sadness. I don't feel the slightest bit guilty for enjoying my meal six weeks ago. Every bite and flavor reminded me of some very good times, and I'm grateful that God designed us with the capacity to enjoy the world He made, and miss those who added to it's beauty.

"A merry heart does good like a medicine."

Proverbs 17:22

If you're in Southern California, and you want to make a memory with a good steak or seafood, click on the photo or HERE for info on Damon's.

Celebrating Gary's Life

June 22, 2015 Laurie

It was a joy to celebrate Gary's life three weeks ago with many of you. There are few events in my life that have been so meaningful. Thinking through his whole life, as I wrote his story, gathering the photos for his Eulogy, and selecting his favorite music, often brought me to tears of joy. Over the most recent years, I've wanted new friends and younger grandchildren to know the "old," healthy Gary. His memorial service was the opportunity. Looking farther back, it always amazed me how Gary's life was transformed by God. That was the best part of his story.

April made the comment that "It's nice that we do Memorial services, because they give us a purposeful way to remember." So true. I'd been thinking about Gary's life for a long time during his steady decline, but planning this tribute has been a significant part of the grieving process for our family. Many who attended, had the same experience. We want to remember the things we love. I love my husband, and many of you did too.

Thank you to all our friends who helped our family realize the dreams and plans we had for this very special day. And though Gary would not have wanted so much attention, we wouldn't have changed a thing.

If you missed the memorial, you can watch it right here if you'd like. It includes tributes from family members, friends, and our Pastor John MacArthur, the Eulogy video, and reception photos. It is not brief but of course, neither was Gary's life. (If you are reading this via email, you'll have to click the "Read in Browser" link at the bottom of your email.)

NOTE: My apologies if you already received this post. I was having a problem with the RSS feed, and needed to republish the post for those of you who subscribe to my blog.

Celebrating Gary's Life

June 21, 2015 Laurie

Three Things (Tidbits & Treasures)

June 16, 2015 Laurie

#1 "Bon Voyage, Jessica!"

This is Jessica. She has been so helpful to me for over a year and is moving away to a home near the ocean. Because she took care of so many "business-type" aspects for me at Colors By Laurie, it really expanded my creative time. I painted a sailboat for her because she loves them, and it represents her new adventures now that she is out of high school. I will truly miss her, and thank God for her. "Bon Voyage, thank you, Jess!"

(I will have more to say about this painting in a Watercolor Journal post and it may become a print available to purchase.)

#2 "Life Partners"

Ron/Julie Long, Don/Ann Sweetnam, Doug/Debi Wilson, Greg/Diane Roehr, Ric/Kathy Lebrecht, and our leaders, Ray/Barb Brown

I have so much to say about Gary's memorial service, but for now, I couldn't wait to post these photos of some very dear friends. This group from La Crescenta Baptist Church, was such a huge part of our life when we were first married and having our babies. What a joy it was to see most of them together again.

Roehrs, Don and Chris Carlson, Lebrechts

We were so involved with each other outside of Sunday mornings, working on each other's homes and gardens, making Christmas gifts, beach days, and play-dates for the kids. There were so many spiritually significant times too, as we learned God's plan for our lives and helped each other root out sin and grow together. I love this group of people and hope we can do a better job of staying in touch. It meant so much to me that they were able to come. I love them all!

#3 Relaxing With My Friend

I'm still adjusting to being a widow, and there has been much to do. Paperwork, and decisions have been the norm here, since Gary's service. I had scheduled a get-a-way with my friend, Christy, months ago for a couple of days this week. With all the busyness, it comes at a good time, and thankfully, we'll be going up to the Central Coast, where we had gone with our husbands back in 2004.

We have had little time to talk over the last few years, and I'm so happy we have time to catch up.

I was just here 10 days ago with the family, and it seems so soon to be back, but my friend and I are having a wonderful time.

It was so funny today, when going in shops how often I found myself saying, "Gary would have loved this (thing)." I don't know anyone who could "out-shop" him.

I love thinking about Gary in this place. It will always be a precious memory for me.

Truly Comforting...

"...the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we shall always be with the Lord. Therefore, comfort one another with these words."

1 Thessalonians 4:17-18

Little Changes

June 6, 2015 Laurie

I LOVE painting, and have many ideas for new watercolors. I actually just finished another one last night. I am so happy to have more time in my day to give to my creative side. Because there's time to think while getting lost in the process, I'm able to think, and dream. Then sometimes I write out my thoughts.

I'd like to do a painting of our old home in Sunland to remind our family of all the great memories. I'm really enjoying doing ocean/beach themes prompted by our trips to the Central Coast. I have a few more baby animal paintings in mind too.

Life is Brief

Parents know this, and so do widows. Before you know it, another year is gone, and opportunities are squandered or embraced. As I mentioned in the last post, the freedom and time I have been given is precious. In order to give my self more fully to family, ministry, painting and writing, I've decided to scale back on some parts of my Colors By Laurie artwork, and step away from the greeting cards.

I will continue to offer commissioned paintings (home portraits, monograms, baby names), and prints for sale, but I'm phasing out the greeting cards. The cards will be available for a limited time, so if you would like to purchase any, head on over to my shop soon. There are some fun new sets of four and other good deals while they last.

Loosing Gary reminds me to value the time we've been given. Hopefully I will spend my allotment well.

"So teach us to number our days, that we may present to You a heart of wisdom." Psalm 90:12

"A short life is wisely spent." Charles Spurgeon

What's Next?

June 4, 2015 Laurie

(A quick note here before I get started... Our family wants to say a huge THANK YOU to those of you who came to Gary's celebration service on Saturday. It was a truly wonderful morning. Your presence with us was SO SPECIAL and my heart is about to burst with things I want to say about the morning. That's for another post. If you had to miss the service, it was recorded, and I'll let you know when it's available.)

Not sure what it will be yet...but right now, am basking in God's love, remembering my amazing husband, and thinking about the future. In the three weeks since Gary's departure, many of you have asked me this question...

"So what are you going to be doing now?"

Now that my number one love and ministry is not needing me anymore, my life is going to look a little different.

One thing that struck me yesterday, is that the faithfulness of God has not diminished just because Gary is not here with me anymore. God was faithful and good to Gary. That was evident in his life. The same faithful and good God is MY God too. I am excited to see how He will display that in MY life in the years I have left.

I don't know the details yet, but I do know some things for sure... I want to spend more time with younger women, encouraging them to live lives pleasing to God. (Titus 2) I am looking forward to more time with grandkids so I can help them along the way as I enjoy them.

"Only give heed to yourself and keep your soul diligently, so that you do not forget the things which your eyes have seen and they do not depart from your heart all the days of your life; but make them known to your sons and your grandsons." Deut. 4:9

As I move into my new role as a widow, there will be things to learn and discover. Gary would want me to embrace it, and try to see God's work in my life. There will be grief, but that is normal. I will try to seek comfort from the Lord.

In my home, Alzheimer's Disease is gone but I'm not walking away from those who are suffering from it. I'm going to have more time now to help with our Alzheimer's Support Ministry at church. I intend to continue making the little instructional videos to encourage care givers, and provide other resources as well.

Peace

I stood on our favorite beach yesterday, and cried, because the final chapter of Gary's life is finished, and I miss him. It won't be the last tears, but there is peace in the missing. It's so hard to explain and if you are a Christian, you know what I mean. It's a deep-seated joy and comfort that comes from the One who gave His life in exchange for mine. He said He would never leave or forsake me and he hasn't. He said nothing would separate me from His love and it hasn't. Gary is gone, but I am not alone. I'm anticipating a closer relationship with the Lord, and new opportunities to see His grace and love in my life.

I know there will be aspects of my future that will be really difficult but not impossible. As you can see from this photo from Gary's Bible (Romans 8), nothing can separate Christians from the love of Christ. In verse 38 you can see that includes DEATH. Gary has died, but lives on. He is fine. I am fine. I'm very much loved by God, because I'm in Christ.' v.39

There will be joyful and sad discoveries, strange new feelings, and things to learn in these next weeks. I'm wanting to bring you along this next part of my journey too. Thank you for caring. Thank you for listening. I love to share with you and hope to continue doing so.

Happy-Sad

May 24, 2015 Laurie

It is hard to describe the opposing feelings within me. Sadness and loss, are intensified, even though I've been saying "goodbye" to Gary for a long time. The hopes of him smiling at me, or saying a word, or noticing if I walk through the room, are over. But now there is something new. Feelings of joy and satisfaction, for Gary's new condition. He is finally "home" and I am so relieved and thrilled for him. There is a new happy freedom for me too, as I can come and go, without giving thought to arranging for caregivers or concerns for Gary's well being.

He is fine now, "extremely fine," but I miss him. When his body was taken away, it was really hard for me. It was the form that his soul was housed in for nearly 65 years, and I loved the whole man. Inside and out. The finality of death added a new level of sadness to my life. It was just the shell he lived in, but I've been one flesh with him for 40 years, and that is over. "Widow" is a new title for me, but I'm Gary's widow, and he has shaped me. We shaped each other. God used us in each others' lives to cause growth. I'm forever grateful to him.

In this odd little time between Gary's death and his Memorial Service, coming up on Saturday, I've been crying and laughing. I find myself habitually looking in our room to see how he is, feeling strange at the grocery store, when I don't need to pick up Gary's foods, and wishing he was here to talk to even though he couldn't respond. But preparing for Saturday, is new and different, and I'm loving going through the old photos and memories as I write his eulogy. It's such a neat way to receive comfort. After next week, I'm sure I will start to explore the "new normal," but for now, I'm doing ok, and enjoying the busy preparations.

Thank you all who are so lovingly caring for our family during this time. My heart is empty and full and I'm ok with that.

Memorial Service

You are most welcome to join our family as we celebrate and remember Gary's life on Saturday, May 30, at Grace Community Church, (13248 Roscoe Blvd., Sun Valley, CA 91352) at 9:30 am in the Worship Center. Reception following.

"Till Death Us Do Part"

May 15, 2015 Laurie

Forty years ago I said “…till death do us part.” Two days ago we were parted and I said “good-bye” to my Gary. For the last nine years I have been grieving the loss of my husband, and dreading the moment in time when we would be separated from each other and now it is here. I can’t wait to see him again, in Glory, where Gary and I will be face to face with the One who made it possible for us to keep our vows and love each other “no matter what.” My heart is empty and full at the same time.

Thank you for your love and prayers.

Memorial Service

"Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his godly ones." Psalm 116:15

Journey's End

May 8, 2015 Laurie

If you have been following my blog for any time at all then you know about my dear Gary's Alzheimer's Disease. Though his nine year decline has been very gradual, to the point of him being bed-bound over the last year, things have changed dramatically over the last week and now he is nearing the end of his earthly life. Thankfully, he is comfortable and peaceful. Our family is rejoicing for him as he gets to go to his eternal home with Christ, but our hearts are heavy as we must say good-bye soon. We are sharing some sweet memories with each other and telling him how much we love him. He is very close to the end of a long journey.

A sweet comfort to my heart is this promise in the Bible to those who love and follow Jesus. May it encourage you too.

"Therefore we do not lose heart, but though our outer man is decaying, yet our inner man is being renewed day by day. For momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison, while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal." 2 Corinthians 4:16-18

Thank you,
Laurie

What's in a Name?

April 15, 2015 Laurie

I'm a grandma...a happy, proud, privileged grandma. When our daughters were expecting each bundle of joy, and once a name had been chosen, I began designing a painting for each baby. These very special, custom paintings are some of my favorite projects ever. I would love to paint one for you too! Most people are surprised at some of the details, so I'm going to introduce you to one of these paintings, up close and personal.

THE THEME: This is the starting point. Because it's going to be displayed on the nursery wall, it should enhance the room decor such as Carnival, Western, Garden, Pirate, Woodland, etc. THE NAME: The letters in the name are represented by objects which begin with each letter. THE LITTLE ONE: A little boy or girl will be somewhere in the painting too. THE MEANING OF THE NAME: I work the meaning of the name into the scene. This is often the trickiest part because it must support the painting's theme. THE BIRTH DATE: If the painting is given as a gift AFTER the baby is born, the birth date can also be included in the picture.

The Watercolorful Name paintings are the most complicated and thoughtful paintings I do as I am coordinating all these elements into a treasured family keepsake. To learn more about ordering click HERE!

If you want to explore these paintings more, I'm having a TREASURE HUNT CONTEST on my Facebook page right now! It ends Saturday at 6:00 pm. The prize is 25% off of any item in my shop. So, head on over to Facebook and look for Colors By Laurie to enter.

Gary's Prayers - "The Basics"

April 10, 2015 Laurie

(Back in 2010, even though Gary's language skills were waning, he would still pray at meals. I wrote down some of these prayers in my journal.)

November 7, 2010

"Thank you for giving us friends. For giving us opportunity. Also for food. Amen" G.P.

Friends, opportunity and food. These three are a good reminder to me too.

I'm thankful for a good friend who is helping me navigate some new accounting software. I love to paint and be creative, but numbers are not my thing, so she is a huge blessing to me.
I'm so glad for the opportunity to go to a very special wedding this weekend. Caregivers are lined up and our daughter is in town for the event. Looking forward to seeing many old friends.
I am thankful for the nutritious food that Gary is still able to eat. It's pureed but tasty.

What are some reasons you are thanking God for your friends, opportunities, and food? Care to share in the comments (at bottom of page) to encourage others?

"In everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." 1 Thessalonians 5:18

One, Two, Three, etc.

April 4, 2015 Laurie

Today is a big day! I finished a third "How-To" video. I've waited to announce this series on my blog, because it takes "three" to make a series. This is just the beginning! I have so many more I want to make. After 9 years of living with Alzheimer's, Gary and I have experienced many things. Some things have become so valuable to us, that I just HAVE TO SHARE. If a picture is worth a thousand words, a short video is worth even more.

My mind is flooded with ideas, so get ready to see regular additions to the Creative Ideas on my Alzheimer's page. I'll put all three videos right here on this post. Just click on the image to watch.

<-----"Who Am I?" (2.5 min. Video)

(NOTE: If you are an email subscriber and are reading this post in an email you'll have to click on "View in Browser" in order to play the videos.)

Many of the ideas have come from others and the books on my Book Review section, but hopefully these short videos will be a quick help to others.

"What Can I Do?" (3 min. Video) ---->

<------"What Can I Work On?" (3 min. Video)

The BIG IDEA here is to focus on what the loved one CAN STILL DO and help them do it. Wishing, prodding, and hoping that they will be like they used be is only frustrating for them and sad for you.

Please share these videos with anyone who would benefit. You can share this post anywhere, or share the videos from YouTube. I'd love to get feedback from you too.

Flowers in the Wilderness

March 14, 2015 Laurie

One of the HUGE blessings of our Alzheimer's journey has been the refreshing, and fulfilling opportunity to be creative again. It would be hard to explain how much it means to me to be able to paint my watercolors and share them with you. Each painting is a little "vacation from my problems," to quote Bob Wiley. It gives me time to reflect, and learn from life. Once finished I get the privilege of bringing joy to you, my friends, through my art. If Gary weren't sick, I would probably not have found my love of painting again.

This little two minute video explains the "Why" behind Colors By Laurie. Our friend, Jason made it for me. He is the young man that lived with us for 6 months to help Gary. (For more on that story see HERE.) It is awkward and humbling to promote myself, but thankfully, this was Jason's idea and I couldn't be happier with the result. I've been surprised and blown away by the Facebook response already. You may have seen it at my Colors By Laurie Facebook page, but if not, just click on the image below. Then if you feel so inclined, please share, pin, post, email or whatever to your friends. (to share the video, just click the little paper airplane in the upper right hand corner of the video.)

Thank you for your love, care and prayers.

My Blog - "I Have Been Young"

LIVE - REMEMBER - ENJOY

and MORE...

Head ‘em Up – Move ‘em Out

The Great Montana Centennial Cattle Drive

By Bill Ransom

I love you Dad!

40 years ago...

Shortly after Gary’s diagnosis...

"I am well content with weaknesses..."

Would we both be unselfish enough to go through this trial in a way that pleases the Lord?

Would I be able to keep Gary at home with me or would he need a nursing home?

Would I keep loving Gary when he no longer knows me? How do you love completely with no return on that love?

“I am well content with distresses.”

“I am well content with difficulties.”

One year later

Remember…2 Corinthians…

Yes, I was lonely.

Yes, I was sad.

Yes, I was easily overwhelmed and uncertain.

Yes, I was in need of wisdom.

In all these things...

Forty years ago...

Meanwhile, my earthly life goes on.

I have traveled far now on life's journey; and, having climbed one of the few remaining hills between earth and Heaven, I stand awhile on this vantage-ground, and look back across the country through which the Lord has led me.

There are flowers of joy and love growing all along the way, even in the dark places; and "trees which the Lord has planted," give shade and shelter from too great heat.

Mostly, they went on their way singing; and for one of them, at least, there was no joy greater than to tell others of the grace and glory of the blessed King to whose land He was hastening. And when he thus spoke, the power of the Lord was seen, and the angels rejoiced over repenting sinners.

"...you will grieve, but your grief will be turned into joy."

"Hear, O LORD, and be gracious to me; O LORD, be my helper. You have turned for me my mourning into dancing; You have loosed my sackcloth and girded me with gladness, that my soul may sing praise to You and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give thanks to You forever."

Psalm 30:10-12

...about staying busy...

an example from last weekend...

"WHERE DID YOU GET YOUR GREAT CAREGIVERS?"

It's OK

"A merry heart does good like a medicine."

Proverbs 17:22

#1 "Bon Voyage, Jessica!"

#2 "Life Partners"

#3 Relaxing With My Friend

Truly Comforting...

Life is Brief

"A short life is wisely spent." Charles Spurgeon

"So what are you going to be doing now?"

Peace

Memorial Service

Memorial Service