Official Sciaroni Family Stuff

Layla Sciaroni Is Born

2011-12-29T11:18:00.003-06:00

Lili had her baby this morning at 10:42 AM, a 6 lb 6 oz girl named Layla. Baby and mother are doing very well.

Mom's Health Update

2011-10-21T13:37:00.002-05:00

I visited Mom last night from around 6:45 - 8:00 PM. What I found was that she is doing better than she has been over the last few days. The news is not good overall. She has been diagnosed with congestive heart failure, see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heart_failure for more details. This is causing the swelling on the legs and overall shortness of breath. She is on oxygen it is set at 3. They are giving her medicine to help eliminate the swelling and have modified her medicine to give her some more vitamin K.

She is going to be staying in the hospital through the weekend. She is in Des Peres Hospital, room 439. You can also call 314-966-9439 to contact her directly.

Keep Mom in your prayers.
Andy

Sciaroni campout

2011-09-12T20:17:00.003-05:00

I had a great time at my first Sciaroni family campout. Loved the foil packs!! The afternoon rain wasn't a deal breaker. I even got a good night's sleep. Really liked Washington State Park and would go again.

Power Back On

2011-04-30T09:42:00.000-05:00

Our power went on for about 8 hours yesterday, then went off for about 7, then came back on. Internet started to work this morning so I thought I'd get everyone up to speed. Much of North Alabama is still without power so we are grateful that we have it. Most people in the area have left and gone to Atlanta, Nashville or beyond. They are rolling power around the area so it probably won't be continuous. Since Decatur has power, lots of folks flocking from all over North Alabama to get gas and food. Both are very valuable commodities around these parts right now. I was able to get 8 gallons of gas yesterday. Out from Decatur, Lou

Update from Decatur, AL

2011-04-29T16:59:00.001-05:00

We are doing ok in Decatur.  Still without power, although a neighbor is going house to house with a generator and letting folks hook up their freezers for a couple of hours.  He said he'll come back to our house tomorrow morning.  1  million folks still without power so we're not alone. 

We had a party at our house tonight, a bunch of folks in the neighborhood had nothing better to do but sit around and talk.  We needed to get rid of a lot of meat that thawed, so we turned a bad situation into a block party.  Andy would have been proud. 

Curfew is in effect due to looters.

Thanks for all of the concern and prayers.  Keep the later coming. 

Lou

Louie OK in Alabama

2011-04-28T09:36:00.003-05:00

Louie wanted us to pass on the word that he is OK after all the tornadoes that hit near his home. They will be without power for at least the next 5 days. They are unable to go to work or school due to the effects of the storm.

I'm thankful that Louie, Kim, and the kids are OK. Praise God!

Love you,
Tina :)

2011 Family Picnic

2011-03-14T13:59:00.002-05:00

Be sure you have 2011 Family Picnic on your calendar. It is June 11, 2011 starting at noon!
I hope to have pictures of the park and more details soon.

New Update

2010-12-14T19:11:00.003-06:00

Mom is home! Look Ma no oxygen!

She is doing well and is happy to be home.

Check in on her on Wednesday to say hello.

Andy

Tuesday Update

2010-12-14T14:58:00.003-06:00

Sorry, I didn't update this yesterday.

I visited Mom on Monday early evening. She was hoping to get checked out on Monday, but it was too cold. She had her IV updated, they were going to remove it, but since she had to stay they had to update it. She was doing good and was glad they kept her one more night.

Today, Tuesday, she is waiting to be checked out as of 3:00 PM. She will be leaving soon though as the doctor approved her going home. She is still going to be on antibiotics at home and still have oxygen. Her Oxygen level is up to 95 today and has been as high as 98.

Dad is waiting for the OK, and they will hit the road.
Andy

Update from Mary

2010-12-11T10:46:00.001-06:00

Just talked to Mom. She sounds like her spirits are high. She said she is improving every day...and was even talking about things she is going to do "when she gets home". She has her hopes on Monday...but the doctors haven't said anything about going home as of yet. Her oxygen has improved to 93% while on the oxygen. She is able to move around the room on her own now, which has encouraged her as well. Her fever is gone (she has had it go up and down for a little while now-low grade).

She also said she feels like she is taking deeper breaths now!

Thanks for the prayers!!

Love,

Mary

Friday Update

2010-12-10T21:29:00.003-06:00

I visited Mom today and she is improving. Her spirits are good. She seems to be feeling a bunch better than yesterday. I can tell both her and Dad were in better spirits. Mom's breathing was much closer to normal and her color was good. She is very thankful for all the prayers.
If you can stop by and see her. She has some very beautiful flowers from Tina and Dan Jost and family.

Mom Is Resting Better

2010-12-09T23:14:00.003-06:00

in her new room.

I hope she can sleep better tonight. Her breathing is still labored; they only just started her latest antibiotics. She needs all of our prayers.

Update from Mary

2010-12-09T12:59:00.000-06:00

Talked with Mom this morning.  She didn't sleep well last night because she was up coughing.  She said that the nebulizer was helping when they give it.  She also said that she is still not able to take deep breaths...but hopefully with the iv antibiotics and oxygen it will be helping soon.  She has not seen a doctor yet this morning, but she said that one of the nurses told her she has pneumonia.

Love you all,
Mary

Working on Improving

2010-12-08T20:13:00.004-06:00

Mom is back in St. Mary's Hospital, room 412. She is back on oxygen, but looks like she is doing ok. Keep tabs on this site for updates.

Update-from Mary Lyn

2010-05-27T19:04:00.001-05:00

Hey everyone,

I was at the hospital this morning and saw Mom. She is still breathing heavy...but breathing better than she was when she went in yesterday. She was diagnosed with a staph infection during her last stay at the hospital...so when you visit you need to wear a gown...but otherwise she is okay to have healthy visitors. Her blood pressure and heart rate have been good...though they are monitoring her heart with a monitor. Her number of liters of oxygen is higher than what she has been on. It was a "1"...now she is at a "2.5". The oxygen increase does seem to be helping. They did a chest x-ray this morning and the doctor hadn't come in when I left to give the results of that.

Think that is all I know. Love you all!

Mary

Mom back in the hospital

2010-05-27T12:25:00.002-05:00

Hey Y'all,
I'm writing from South Carolina with updates about Mom in St Louis. Mary said that she has a MRSA Staph infection. They think she has pneumonia. The doctor had not been in to see her yet, so she did not have any other info. Her Oxygen level seems to be low despite being on Oxygen. If you come to visit Mom you have to wear a medical gown so that you do not bring the infection to others. To learn more about this kind of Staph infection check out this site. http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/mrsa/ds00735
We are praying for her here. Father offered Mass this morning for her, and we are all asking everyone we know to pray here.
Love you,
Tina :)
keep us out of towners posted! :)

Mom IS Home

2010-04-24T20:50:00.003-05:00

Mom is home today adjusting to retired life again. She will have an easier time communicating her menu choices. Mom has both a visiting nurse along with a live in nurse (dad.) Home life will take a little adjustment but Mom is happy to be home. Keep mom in your prayers as she is adjusting to various changes after her visit to the hospital.

Really, They Said She'll Go Home Tomorrow

2010-04-22T19:51:00.002-05:00

I was just guessing before. But now tomorrow is the planned day for home.

Unfortunately, Mom has contracted an infection. I guess they're keeping her tonight to make sure that the antibiotics don't change her blood PT level. She said that she still feels good.

Probably Home on Thursday

2010-04-21T13:33:00.002-05:00

Oops. That was wishful thinking on my part yesterday. They want to make sure her medications are alright before letting her out.

Mom May Go Home Tomorrow

2010-04-20T21:32:00.002-05:00

Mom was doing much better today. She had a hard day yesterday due to the bronchioscopy. She couldn't eat or drink anything for most of the day. But the good news is that the test showed no problems in her lungs.

She was in a good mood when I saw her this evening. She had shrimp for supper! Her blood pressure has been very good during this entire stay in the hospital. This is due to a new medication which Mom had been planning to start already.

Mom is Looking Well

2010-04-18T21:05:00.003-05:00

Mom was feeling pretty good today. Her blood pressure has been good and she is eating well. Her cough is better, but she still is bringing up some stuff. Tomorrow she has a bronchioscopy scheduled to look into her lungs. She won't leave the hospital until she is certain that the doctors have successfully treated her condition.

Mom Still in the Hospital

2010-04-16T17:14:00.002-05:00

This afternoon the doctor suggested that Mom might need to spend the weekend in the hospital awaiting a test on Monday. She looks pretty good, but there is still some blood in her cough, so she didn't want to leave today. They have lowered her coagulation count to cause the bleeding in her airway to heal; but this could cause clotting, so she needs to be watched.

Dad went to the doctor this afternoon for a shot in his knee to ease his pain.

! ! Ernie is Cancer Free ! !

2009-11-19T18:54:00.002-06:00

Ernie had his staples removed yesterday and is still feeling sore from the surgery BUT the pain cannot compare to the great news he has learned! ERNIE IS CANCER FREE AND everything removed during surgery also tested as CANCER FREE. YES! Words cannot express how happy Ernie and everyone else are about this great news!

Thanks again to everyone for your thoughts and prayers!

Ernie Home from the Hospital on 11/9/09

2009-11-10T20:55:00.004-06:00

Ernie is glad to be home from the hospital to recover ia a peaceful setting. He's Obviously feeling sore from the surgery and has staples across the stomach in a smiley face pattern which are scheduled to be removed on 11/18/09. - Great to hear you are recovering well brother. Thanks for your thoughts and prayers!

Elijah Noeth

2009-11-08T08:16:00.001-06:00

Elijah...born 11/7/09 at 10:12pm...6lbs 7oz!

Congratulations Mary and Peter!!! God Bless your newest little one!

Axel Sciaroni

2009-11-07T07:52:00.003-06:00

Jason and Bekah's newest little gift:

12:51am 11/7/09 6lbs. Axel Eugene Vincent Sciaroni

Ernie is out of Surgery!

2009-11-05T19:39:00.001-06:00

I just found out that Ernie is out of surgery. Thanks for your prayers. The doctor has reported that he hopefully has removed all of the cancer from his liver. He also took out Ernie’s gallbladder and does not think there is any more on his colon. Now we just need to pray for a speedy recovery, and pray!

Relay For Life

2009-04-09T16:45:00.004-05:00

Greetings friends & family!

Whether it is a friend, family member, the neighbor down the street, or our own personal experience, we have all been touched by cancer in some way. Recently, my dad was diagnosed with Stage IV Colon Cancer and more than ever, I feel the need to help find a cure. We all have the power to make a difference in the fight against cancer.

That's why I have chosen to fight back right here in our community by participating in the American Cancer Society Relay For Life®. I know that you care about finding an end to cancer, and I hope you will join me at this year's Relay For Life®. I realize this is a rather late request, as I only just found out about this amazing event that is new to DuBourg High School this year, so many of you may already have plans. Here is a link to ACS Team Sciaroni where you can sign up and join my team. Even if you are not able to attend for the full event, consider stopping by for an hour and witnessing the amazing community that is working together to improve the lives of those with cancer and searching for a cure, or you can make an online donation to support our efforts.

By taking part in Relay For Life®, we have a chance to join 3.5 million people from across the country to celebrate the lives of those who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost, and fight back against a disease that takes too much.

At the event, we'll camp out overnight and take turns walking around the track to raise money and awareness to support the American Cancer Society's lifesaving mission. There is an incredible ceremony to celebrate cancer survivors and caregivers that starts off the night, and a moving ceremony to honor and remember those who have fought the disease.

I can truly say Relay is unlike anything else you'll ever experience. It's a night full of fun, hope, and remembrance. Together, we can celebrate, remember, and fight back. Please join me.

Thank you!

~Amy

2009-03-29T09:01:00.001-05:00

I finally got the info on how to send you our love and prayers - Ernie, get well soon. I am finally finished with my chemo - it is a journey - and we will all be there with you. Aunt Evelyn

Chemo Starts Tuesday

2009-03-27T18:37:00.003-05:00

The doctor will start injecting toxic drugs in an effort to harass the cancer still left in my body. Hopefully this will get rid of it.

Otherwise, I'm feeling stronger and my garden is looking better than ever.

Visit Saturday 3/21

2009-03-26T20:23:00.001-05:00

Ernie has been doing loads of spring trimming and cleaning around his house. Ernie showed Tony and me the horticulture work he has been doing around the house the past few weeks. Beth had been spending time at with her Mom and Dad and left for home in Iowa. Ernie is healing from the colostomy and from the partial liver resection. Soon Ernie will have a port installed for a regular regiment of chemotherapy. After Chemo is complete, status will be evaluated and further action if needed.

Please continue to keep Ernie in your thoughts and prayers. Ernie, come by anytime and if all the spring yard work is completed to help our home become as nice as yours.

Lovely Afternoon At Home

2009-03-07T18:36:00.003-06:00

I was released from hospital custody at noon. After some necessary organizing of my health paraphernalia I read outside on the patio for a couple of hours. The birds were singing and someone was barbecuing while I napped.

I'll have numerous doctors visits in the next few weeks to make sure everything is healing correctly. Then I start chemotherapy in three weeks.

Thanks again for all the prayers.

Ernie

Ernie - Thursday Update

2009-03-05T15:11:00.002-06:00

I visited Ernie today and he looks good.
He is a very positive person and continues to look at the bright side when given bad news.
Today is one of those days. They discovered in the tissue they removed from Ernie's liver, had cancer all the way to the edge of what they removed. What this means is there is a chance they didn't remove all of the cancer. They will continue on with chemo and the planned therapy and they will test him after that. Ernie says he feels good and is ready to move on.

Like I said Ernie told the doctor that they never saw the cancer in the test, but only when they did the surgery on the colon did they discover the cancer. He said thank you to the doctor for noticing it, as it could have easily been unnoticed.

Ernie did say he is ready to go camping as he is retired and ready to do that type of stuff.

Ernie will be in the hospital until Saturday most likely. He is recovering very nicely and enjoyed our visit. Please keep both Ernie and Cindy, and family in your prayers.

Ernie Update

2009-03-04T14:24:00.001-06:00

Mom called and gave me an update on Ernie. He seems to be in good spirits today. He is really glad to have his colostomy out. He was up and about once while they were visiting. The doctors seem satisfied with the surgery. They feel like they removed all of the cancer.

OUT of surgery!

2009-03-03T14:51:00.002-06:00

Ernie is out of surgery! I just spoke with Cindy and they said that both surgeries went well. They think they removed everything they needed to. He will be groggy the rest of today. He is in
Rm 212 if anyone wants to call and send warm wishes in the next few days. She was not sure how long he will be in the hospital...probably three or four days.

Another Surgery Scheduled

2009-02-18T14:14:00.003-06:00

My next surgery is scheduled for Tuesday March 3rd. They will do a liver resection first, then close my colostomy.

I have been healing well since the last surgery and I feel strong again. Hopefully this will remove the last of the cancer; and then the chemotherapy will block any return.

Hottest Hubby

2009-02-13T15:30:00.005-06:00

Mom put an entry in the Hottest Hubby contest for Channel 5. Some of you knew and were able to vote for his picture. Dad won 3rd place as the 3rd Hottest Hubby in St. Louis! Here is a link to view the pic and comments. Mom says thanks to all who voted!

http://stlouis.momslikeme.com/members/ScrapbookActions.aspx?m=3852846&g=740356

The winners will be announced tonight at 5pm on Channel 5.

Clean PET Scan

2009-02-10T14:03:00.000-06:00

Good news! I had a PET scan last Friday to see if the cancer had spread to other areas. The results showed no other cancer.

So now I'll get together with the liver surgeon so he can remove the spot that's on there. I already have surgery scheduled on the 25th to reverse the colostomy. Maybe they can do the liver operation at the same time?

Ernie

Colon Cancer

2009-02-01T21:53:00.003-06:00

I received the lab report this week and it was not good. The tumor was colon cancer and there is a spot on my liver.

I'll find out this week what my treatment options are. Please keep me in your prayers.

Ernie

I'm Free Again

2009-01-26T15:57:00.002-06:00

For awhile any way.
They kicked me out after my doctor said that I was the best looking patient in the Ward. (Mike told me that says nothing about my health.)

Anyway, it will probably be a few days before we know the lab results. I'm praying for good news but I'm ready to do what is necessary to clean out my system.

It will take a bit longer for me to heal after this attack on my body. Fortunately, Cindy is here to help me through all these hard times.

THANKS TO EVERYONE

Ernie Update

2009-01-26T15:02:00.002-06:00

This is a little late, but I visited Ernie yesterday, Sunday and here is my update.

Ernie was in good spirits, and he always is, so nothing has changed. :-)
He said he would be coming home on Monday, Jan. 26th, if all goes as planned. That is great news as he feels he can enjoy his recovery more there.
Ernie commented how nice the people were on his floor at St. Mary's.
He is recovering from the surgery and we did some walking and talking around the floor.
They are waiting for the results to find out what "Stage" the cancer is, but we are hopeful that he might not need chemo.

Overall he will have to wait several weeks before he has colostomy reversed. It may have to wait longer if chemo is needed.
Ernie is very thankful for all the prayers and well wishes. Keep Ernie in your thoughts and prayers.
Andy

Ernie Surgery Update

2009-01-22T14:31:00.003-06:00

I talked to Cindy about 2:30 PM today, she gave me an update for the family.
Ernie's surgery was successful, as they were able to remove all of the tumor. Unfortunately it is cancerous and he will need some Chemo once he recovers. They took the tumor and his lymph nodes, they also took a piece from his liver, though they do not think it is cancerous.
Cindy was very upbeat and said that it went as well as could be expected.
Ernie is on LOTS of medicine, including dilauded that is stronger than morphine.
He will be in the hospital for about 5 more nights. He will not want any visitors tonight as he will be out of it.
He is at St. Mary's in room 223.
Ernie has a long recovery, but he made it thru the first steps today.
Please continue to keep Ernie and his family in your prayers.
Andy

Update on Ernie

2009-01-21T15:03:00.002-06:00

I talked to Ernie this afternoon, just before 3:00 PM, and he asked me to update the blog. He had his colonoscopy and they were able to see the blockage. It appears to be a tumor. We are not sure if it is cancerous or not at this time. Tomorrow, Thursday Jan. 22nd Ernie will have surgery to remove the tumor. They may have to remove lymph nodes as well if anything has spread.
Ernie is in room 223 at St. Mary's and is very good spirits. He is currently on a liquid diet.
Please keep Ernie in your prayers.
Andy

Back from the hospital

2009-01-06T14:22:00.003-06:00

I'm feeling much better now that my digestive tract has been emptied. The biopsy that they took turned up as not malignant. I'm working hard now to improve my health before the follow up surgery in two weeks to remove the tumor.

Thanks to everyone for all the prayers that helped to bring me through another crisis.

Ernie

Updates on Ernie

2009-01-03T12:31:00.004-06:00

Mac asked me to post some information for everyone: Ernie (of Ernie & Cindy) is at St. Mary's Hospital. He had a blockage, and they did a colonoscopy yesterday (1/2/09) and found a tumor in his colon. They are doing a biopsy today (1/3/09) to find out what kind of tumor it is. Please keep Ernie in your prayers!!!

Manager for a Day

2008-11-07T17:02:00.004-06:00

I always wanted to replace Tony LaRussa as the manager for the Cardinals.
Hmmm, Pujols should bat first, yeah...

2008-09-28T20:46:00.001-05:00

Best of best Chefs in St Louis

2008-09-28T19:46:00.007-05:00

This weekend in St Louis The annual Taste of St Louis best chef competition was held. Vito Racanelli (owner of Onesto) and his pastry chef Sally Sciaroni took top honors. Coming into the competition unseaded they had to win three rounds to win the competition. A great way to spend her fathers birthday...

2008-09-18T16:52:00.004-05:00

Sadly on September 18th, 2008 our Aunt, sister-in-law and friend Cathy Cullen died today. Please post a picture or two of Aunt Cathy if you can. I remember she was always good for a hug and a smile.

2008-09-03T10:36:00.003-05:00

Pool side fun

2008-07-28T19:21:00.002-05:00

Vacation to Louisville

2008-07-28T19:13:00.006-05:00

Fun in Louisville!!!

Pictures from trip to Norfolk

2008-06-25T16:29:00.001-05:00

Posts from Lou's Trip to Norfold. These are worth seeing.
http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=eb8akw5.91itk0yt&x=0&y=gks7ta&localeid=en_US

Mom update

2008-05-16T10:38:00.002-05:00

They shocked Mom's heart this morning and it worked! Her heart is back in rhythm. They are going to check it again in 4 weeks to see if it is still in rhythm. If it is she will come off of the coumadin. She had an outpatient procedure at St. Mary's. She will be coming home this afternoon.

Pope Benedict XVI at Yankee Stadium

2008-04-22T11:58:00.003-05:00

Pope Benedict XVI at Yankee Stadium

2008-04-22T11:35:00.003-05:00

Sunday April 20, 2008
I attended the Papal Mass at Yankee Stadium with a group from Our Sorrowful Mother's Ministry. Our retreat team was invited by Fr. Bill McCarthey to a retreat at Our Father's House in Moodus, Connecticut and then to the Divine Mercy Shrine in Stockbridge, Mass, and then to the Papal Mass on Sunday...we did not receive our tickets until we were departing from the bus in NY and as soon as I saw the numbers on the ticket I knew it was good!!! ( and I knew that they had done an FBI check on us all so I was hoping it would be close) After three hours of getting into the Stadium and through security I was amazed to see that I was sitting in the fourth row near home plate and the dug out. The Holy Father went past me four times since he went into the dug out to change into his vestments for Mass. It was truly a grace filled experience and I remembered you in my prayers.
Peace,
Annette

Sciaroni's in the News!

2008-04-16T08:19:00.007-05:00

The St. Louis Post Dispatch featured the
Jason Sciaroni family in a story they ran about
cloth diapering!

Happy Easter!

2008-03-24T22:34:00.001-05:00

Grandmother and Baby Noeth

2008-03-06T11:18:00.005-06:00

Baby Noeth Pictures

2008-03-06T11:18:00.003-06:00

Here are some pictures that we took yesterday. Thought everyone could enjoy.

Mary Lyn

A new little Noeth

2008-03-05T10:17:00.003-06:00

Mary Lynn and Peter received their bundle of joy this morning. Peter Shalom Noeth was born just after 8am today. she didn't know his length, but he was 6 lbs 5 oz. Mother and son are doing well. They are in St John's.....

From Mom

2008-02-27T10:20:00.002-06:00

I appreciate everyone's concern but I feel like it is time to eliminate the blog. Things are going well and I am glad to be home. The rest of the healing process will take time.

Today she saw Her own Doctor

2008-02-25T17:15:00.003-06:00

Dr's visit went OK today. Some of her meds were changed but all in all she was doing well. mom then made an appointment for a cardiologist on March 12 Th. He will See what can be done to get her heart rhythm back. Then she went and got fitted for her new hearing aids. Her hearing is better in her left ear but her brain doesn't comprehend as well for the left ear. The new ones should take a week to ten days to come in. Lunch at Pietros, then back home.

2008-02-24T14:01:00.002-06:00

I didn't get a chance to make an entry last night, but...

Theresa, Jenna and I ate dinner with Mom and enjoyed her company into the evening.

I hung around until Dad and Ernie arrived around 8:30 PM. We unloaded all the stuff into their apartment so they are officially home!

Dad attended church this morning and we all went over to visit Mom afterwards, she was able to receive Communion then.
They really were pleased with ALL the help the received from their friends (Many of them), family (sisters and brother, and IN-laws) and of course all of us children.
Great job to you all.

Dad is home

2008-02-24T10:41:00.002-06:00

Dad and Ernie drove straight through and got home about 8 last night. I just briefly talked to dad he was on his way to church.

Saturday..no more snow

2008-02-23T14:13:00.002-06:00

Mom had great night she slept soundly in her own bed. I brought my grandson Cameron over there today. She let him play with her vintage mid twentieth century toys. He liked the Tonka truck (still with its original door stickers). A turkey sandwich was for lunch with some leftover angel food cake from Sister last night.Dad and Ernie are now on their way back home. After packing up the car last night they used mom's birthday present from john and had a nice meal. We hope the weather will not be bad for them on their way home. Mom said they had a toothpick holder that they could not get in the car so they will just have to leave it behind. Cindy and Peggy are at Shaws Garden today for a Cake display show this weekend. Mom thought about going but decided it is still to soon. Tony Sam and Rachel are visiting now and Andy will go over later today. She put her keys in her pocket so she won't get locked out of anywhere. The jumble was giving her fits today...coudn't fit the U into the word. Thanks to all who have called and checked up on her. She still can not hear well on the phone so speek loudly if you call....More to come. Vince

Friday Afternoon Security

2008-02-23T11:43:00.002-06:00

Visitied Mom this afternoon, she looks great! Thanks to everyone for their help during visits to Florida. Mom completed the Jumble today. Vince had gone shopping. Sister Rabecca was locked in the basement, after maintenance crews closed the door. Mom heard Sister and asked Dessie to open the door. Later Dessie was throwing snow balls at Mom's apartment as she was locked outside, Vince opened the door. Sister Rabecca made Cheese broccoli potato soup - Yum. Dad and Ernie ate at the Columbia to celebrate Mom's birthday, they are driving home Saturday morning.

Wintery Morning

2008-02-22T09:12:00.002-06:00

Talked to Mom and Vince this morning. Mom sounded a little congested...but she said once she fell asleep last night she slept well. She was taking her time getting up this morning. She is glad to be home again. Vince came this morning and brought her her coffee and breakfast. He is going to go shopping for her soon. She made a list of things she needed at the store. Sr. Rebecca is going to be making dinner for Mom tonight (she is Mom's friend upstairs).

Happy to be home

2008-02-22T07:04:00.002-06:00

Steve and I got Mom home and settled about midnight. She is so happy to be home. I will go shopping for her today no need for her to be out in the ice and snow.

She's in St. Louis!

2008-02-21T22:39:00.001-06:00

Mom is in St. Louis. Just talked to Vince. They picked her up and are getting ready to drive her home. Thanks for all of the prayers!

Mom has left Florida

2008-02-21T20:56:00.003-06:00

Mom's plane left at 9:05 PM; only 10 minutes behind schedule despite having already taken off from Lambert Field twice through todays storm. Vince and Steve are meeting Mom when she arrives in St Louis around 10:20 PM CST.

Mom was in good spirits all day. We spent awhile down by the pool where many friends came by to say goodbye. We had a great dinner at Cody's on our way to the airport. Dad and I will pack up tomorrow and return on Saturday.

Last Day at the Beach

2008-02-21T11:08:00.002-06:00

Mom walked out to the beach this morning, for the first time this year. It is warm and humid here. We woke early today because the blood nurse came before 9AM.

I'm keeping an eye on the USA3000 website. Mom's plane left St Louis on time at 6AM this morning en route to Puerto Rico (or Dominican Rep.?) Anyway, it left there on time and is expected in St Louis ahead of schedule.

She's coming home

2008-02-21T10:42:00.002-06:00

Mom is coming home today. The weather is yucky...but she is still coming unless the flight is cancelled. Dad and Ernie will be with her until she gets on the plane in Clearwater...and she is being picked up in St. Louis by Vince and Steve. Her plane gets in at 10:15pm...so I'm sure she will be tired. Please pray that all goes well on her journey home.

Another Easy Morning

2008-02-20T09:22:00.002-06:00

Mom is doing well this morning. She is excited about getting ready for home. Returning to her own doctor will help her to reach stability regarding her medication. It seems likely that this will be adjusted by Dr Compton. Mom has never taken daily medication and now she will need to take a handful of pills for the foreseeable future.

Mom made eggs for breakfast today as we are cleaning out the refrigerator now. No dolphins yet this morning although the sea has calmed. The pool temperature is finally up above 80 degrees.

Getting Ready for Home

2008-02-19T13:22:00.002-06:00

Dad took Mom to the beauty parlor this morning. We also had gone over to watch the Phillies training camp. The doctor called to tell Mom to take no coumdin today nor tomorrow and only 1mg until she sees Dr Compton on Monday.

It's too cool and windy for the pool today.

Tai Chi Morning

2008-02-18T12:20:00.002-06:00

Very strong winds this morning. We all did Tai Chi while waiting for the nurse to draw blood. (I had been wrong about this nurse being finished with Mom.) She said that the doctor would receive the readings this afternoon. Mom's pulse has been right around 70 every day for the past week.

Beautiful Sunday

2008-02-17T16:08:00.003-06:00

Lynne and George arrived last night after a long flight. We had been out to dinner and stayed up pretty late last night.

This morning was the last Mass at St Jeromes for us this year. Mom made hambugers for lunch. A long afternoon at the pool and beach (Mom worked the jumble by the pool). George and Dad are now barbequing down by the pool.

We'll be finished early so we can be ready for the Big Show tonight at 8PM EST.

Fun time last night

2008-02-16T11:21:00.002-06:00

We went ot the pier last night to listen to the Island Boys and enjoy the activity along the beach there. We ate our seafood at Crabby bills then watched an amazingly colorful sunset on the public beach. Dick and Ruth came by later to play cards. Mom won both games of 99.

Another lovely day at the beach today. Mom has begun to organize things for her return on Thursday. She is planning our remaining meals around what is in the fridge.

Just All Right

2008-02-15T14:19:00.002-06:00

The weather is calm and perfect today. Mom made some great dinner last night. Today she was relaxing by the renovated pool, she has been cleared for the hot tub but she is not going in.

Tonight we're going up to the pier for some live music, then dinner at Crabby Bills. Mom doesn't want to just sit around.

Sunny and Cool

2008-02-14T13:25:00.002-06:00

We had seafood for dinner last evening at Backwater across the street. Everything is normal today. The storms blew past last night so it's nice today. No news is good news.

The Pool is OPEN

2008-02-13T14:05:00.002-06:00

There was beautiful bright sunshine after lunch so we went down to the pool. Dad and I went in the hot tub, but the pool is too cold yet. Around 2:30 PM a line of dark clouds came shooting off of the gulf bringing cold rain. The new tiles are nice looking.

Last nurse visit in Florida

2008-02-13T11:07:00.002-06:00

The RN came today to check on Mom. Julie has kept a close eye on Mom's situation so we will miss her being on the case. Everything looks good with Mom right now.

The pool may open today. The work is finished, but it's raining this morning. I'm not sure when it the first person will use the pool or hot tub.

A Normal Day

2008-02-12T14:09:00.000-06:00

Not much to report today. Humid and mid-70's; plenty of wildlife action on the beach including dolphins. Mom did all her exercises right after breakfast. Then we did some shopping for minor stuff. It is raining hard right now so no pool time today.

Good news from the Doctor

2008-02-11T11:30:00.000-06:00

The doctor said that Mom's heart is now beating in rhythm. Her blood pressure was a little high though. The doctor kept Mom on the same drugs she had been taking. Her next doctors appointment is with Dr Compton in St Louis on the Monday after she returns.

Another lovely day

2008-02-11T07:57:00.000-06:00

We stayed up late last night playing dominoes with Dick and Ruth. We had been at the pool earlier, then Mom made a delicious pork cutlet dinner.

This mornng Mom's pulse is 70. The nurse is coming early to take Mom's blood, they claim. Then Mom has her doctors appointment for later. I'll give a complete report this afternoon. Mom now reads the ads and the events part of the paper every day. So she can suggest activities of interest.

Medical Update

2008-02-10T11:26:00.000-06:00

To answer some questions about Mom's medication; her Digoxin was reduced by half starting yesterday, this morning her pulse was 74. She is back to a full dose of Coumadin since Friday. They didn't tell us the actual reading, they just told Mom to continue with the full dose as planned, because she is now finished wth the antibiotic.

It is sunny and lovely outside today so we may go to the pool after lunch. Real progress has been made on the pool downstairs; it may be ready by next weekend.

Shopping Day

2008-02-09T13:21:00.000-06:00

Mom is back to planning the meals. She had cut out the coupons so we got some bargains at the Orange Blossom. Then we found some more good deals at Publix. After lunch we're not going to the pool. Overcast and 70̊, Dad said it's not a pool day. I think that Mom is more relaxed now that she has a definite return date.

Mom's Homeward Plans

2008-02-08T15:46:00.000-06:00

Mom has booked her flight home for Thursday evening February 21. Dad and I will drive back, so Mom will need some help getting home from the airport. We still have two weeks to make any arrangements.

The nurse and the doctor each called to make sure Mom was taking the correct dosages of some medications (she was). Mom is watching over her own needs. She does her exercises without prompting and reminds Dad about the medicine on schedule.

We had a nice visit by Rocky and Martha this morning. We all went to lunch at Post Corner Pizza and then Dad drove us around to see the sights of Clearwater.

Quiet Evening

2008-02-07T19:50:00.000-06:00

Not much to report. We saw many dolphins today, but "not close enough' Mom said. Rocky Pusateri is coming by to visit tomorrow. Stay tuned as other activities may follow.

Sunny morning

2008-02-07T11:36:00.000-06:00

Mom's check up was very positive. Mom passed every test from the therapist who is not scheduled to return. The nurse's exam was thorough. Mom's pulse was down to 52 so the nurse taught Dad and I to take Mom's pulse before she takes Digoxin (she won't take it if it's under 60). So maybe the doctor will stop that medication when she sees her next Monday. Mom also had blood drawn today.

Mom has been sleeping well, cooking meals and doing the jumble every day. Her hearing is still a big problem, there are some things that she just can't hear.

Active Day Tomorrow

2008-02-06T21:23:00.000-06:00

The nurse is coming to check Mom out tomorrow morning. The ocupational therapist is also scheduled, as is the blood test. So it will be medical check up time for Mom. We will see how she is advancing. Mom did all her exercises this afternoon.

We didn't go to the pool today, but took care of chores instead. Mom made dinner again and she and I played gin rummy later.

2008-02-06T13:22:00.000-06:00

Ash Wednesday

2008-02-06T13:20:00.000-06:00

After an easy breakfast we all went to St Jeromes to get our ashes. Afterwards we drove to the American Legion for a fish dinner. We discovered that the dining is now Crabby's Bayside. It wasn't yet their full menu, but it was still a nice lunch. Mom said that she couldn't hear anything in church.

The doctor has reduced the coumadin by half until she finishes the antibiotic. The physical therapist called while we were out. We didn't know that Mom had any more therapy coming, the therapist will be coming tomorrow morning. The weather is sunny and breezy today so the porch is open.

2008-02-06T11:42:00.000-06:00

This picture was taken on Monday afternoon. Doesn't that smile look great!
Peace, Annette

Home Again

2008-02-06T00:36:00.001-06:00

Hello all...it is 12:36 am CST as I begin this blog... my flight was a little late getting in because of the weather, the plane took a detour over New Orleans...Happy Marte Gras, too bad we didn't make the stop there!
I haven't gotten a chance to catch up on reading the blog...I'll just say from my perspective Mom is very much like her ole self. She has been much more light hearted the last few days, taking her challenges in stride. Ernie is into the Florida mode, and will be able to take over with ease. He did make the coffee for breakfast and encouraged Mom and Dad to go to the store, so Mom could get out and about, and that worked great.
I was beginning to think that Dolphins were a myth, similar to the Loch Ness, I had been there 8 days with none in sight. Mom was so determined to make sure that I saw one that she sat on the balcony with the binoculars until some were sighted. She once again acommplished her goal, taking care of me. She also wanted to make sure I would go away with a full belly, so she cooked dinner completely on her own. This is the first time. Not only that, it was delicous! I gave her lots of hugs, and had a hard time saying goodbye. Dad wanted his hug, too.
I know that she is very touched to be prayed for by so many and has enjoyed the cards and calls and gifts.
Thanks for your prayers for me. I had a easy time in Florida and had a nice stay with Ruth and Dick who hosted me overnights. Mom made a tremendous impovement during my stay, and I enjoyed being there.
We can rest easy as Ernie takes over. He is already in the flow, and I think Florida is agreeing with them all as the weather has gotten better.
Peace,
Annette

Fat Tuesday evening

2008-02-05T20:06:00.000-06:00

The doctors office just wanted to know how long Mom would be on the antibiotics. Her next blood test is for Thursday, which is also her last day on the antibiotics.

Mom and Dad came back from the pool in time to cook the chuck roast dinner for Annette's send off. Mom did it all and it was really delicious. Mom has learned to make adjustments when she isn't hearing well, so she turned up the TV this evening and actually watched an entire classic movie. I think her old spark is returning.

Super Tuesday morning

2008-02-05T12:33:00.000-06:00

Mom slept well last night. Another warm day at the beach. Mom made juice as is her habit. Mom did her strenghtening exercises unaided. Later in the morning we went to Publix where Mom found the right ingredients for the meals we have planned. I think she is begining to get the rhythm of her beach routine. Mom and Dad went down to the pool for the afternoon.

We are still waiting for the doctor to call about the blood test.

A relaxed evening

2008-02-04T20:42:00.000-06:00

After the nurse came, we had an easy lunch on the porch. Then Mom sat by the pool for 2 hours. She was hearing better today, so she just continued conversing with friends. We had dinner at Post Corner Pizza where Mom displayed a hearty appetite. Then cards at the condo before bed.

I think that Mom is learning to cope with her situation. She really takes a lot of medication now. The coumadin results will come in tomorrow, she hasn't taken one since Friday because her last blood test was so thin.

Annette leaves tomorrow afternoon, she has helped me to get adjusted here.

Morning at the Beach

2008-02-04T11:00:00.000-06:00

Thanks to Skip and Janet we had eggs cooked by Annette. Mom made delicious fresh squeezed juice this morning. Annette says that this is the warmest it has been. Mom was able to view the blog for the first time while sitting out on the porch. We are searching for "Mom's friends", the dolphins and waiting for the blood test taker. Everything is going good right now.

Super Bowl Party

2008-02-03T21:30:00.001-06:00

Visited at the pool for an hour in the beautiful Florida sunshine. Then resting up for the Super Bowl Party upstairs at Mary and Charlies. Mom enjoyed visiting with everyone and showing her pictures from last year. Dad picked up Ernie from the airport during halftime.

I think Mom is doing great tonight. Thanks for all the prayers and cards.

by Ernie and Annette