Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Elaine passed away this afternoon. We will miss her so much and are so sad that we can no longer talk to her, joke with her, play games with her. I think the hardest thing I've ever had to do was tell the kids about her. We spent some time recalling some of our favorite memories of Aunt Lainey. One of the first things mentioned was how fun our trip to Disney was because she was along. Even though our kids didn't know it, Elaine actually did a lot of the planning and suggesting of things to do as we'd never been. She was so excited by the thought of us surprising our kids with that trip. At the time, Andy and I hoped we'd create some memories that the kids could remember, even after Elaine would get so sick and eventually pass away. I'm so glad that will apparently be the case.

Elaine's home

I know I still haven't finished up the Paris posts .. . trying hard to get everything organized here and prioritized! But did want to let everyone know that Elaine is home from the hospital . . . but will probably be in bed for awhile.

At times people have asked what they can do to help out -- right now, prayer, lots of prayer, for Elaine, my brother Chris, and my niece Isabel is greatly desired. If you are so inclined, I know she's love to receive some cards. They are always a lift for her. If you need their address, please email me (bazzillgal@aol.com . . . or whatever other email address you have for me will work as well) and I'll be glad to get it to you.

Elaine Update

I have cut and paste this from my sister's blog . . . .Here's recent information on Elaine's progress.

Elaine: HD 6......Meaning Hospital Day number 6

It has come to my attention that many are wanting updates on Elaine. I so much appreciate my dear family and friends being in interested and concerned for Elaine. Of course, I can't share everything because it is not my information to share. However, I will start including the things that Elaine has shared with the general public to keep everyone more up to date. Elaine was admitted to the hospital last Friday. She was initially admitted for high calcium levels, which has been adding to her pain and nausea. The calcium is currently within normal limits, but there are now a few other things that are a bit out of whack....One of which showed up on an x-ray today. She was told today that she has a broken rib, which the doctor attributes to just "bumping into something." She is in a lot of pain, but does seem to do better in the mornings. My mom called tonight and said that Isabel had crawled up into Elaine's lap, and they spent some good time snuggling.

I can sum all of this up fairly simply by saying- My family needs your prayers. We are very concerned about Elaine....and my brother.....and Isabel.

Note from Heather -- also keep my sister Brooke in your prayers. She's recovering from a little surgical procedure. It looks like everything is fine, but wow, dealing with all of this isn't easy.

Additional info on Isabel -- she's been at our house since last night and has enjoyed her "cousin" time. My mom picked her up for tumbling class then she was headed to the hospital for an evening visit. She'll be back with us tonight after hre visit.