I have started this post (in my head) many times and abandoned it many times. Six years ago, my big adventure started and along with that, this little blog started. I did have small visions of the blog bringing fame and fortune. Instead, it has brought me blessings and connections with very dear people, God’s richest gifts.
Just like this tree at my school, there are sometimes 2 different sides to the tale. Two weeks ago, My Loving Spouse rushed me to the hospital with the worst pain, I have ever felt. We were sure my appendix was bursting. Between pains, I did have that one quick thought…
‘Oh, no, am I wearing my bad underwear.’ You know, the one I should have thrown away, but don’t because it is still better than nothing when I need to get the laundry done.
Sharing or over sharing…
I am not always sure where that line lays.
It was not my appendix.
My Loving Spouse, my sons, my neighbors, church family and co-workers have been wonderful. 
If I say nothing, how will you know to pray for me. This saying something is a challenge for me.
A ‘football sized’ mass was found in my abdomen. It is expected to be benign. The surgery (May 21, 2018) is large. The recovery will be long. 
I know that Our Lord will be holding my hand, but I covet your prayers for all things…
….still my anxious heart, still Team Offspring’s anxious heart, make sure the cows don’t get out while we are gone, the surgeon’s capable hands, loneliness while being down, being down instead of up…
Thank you for sharing this next path with me….
and I am blessed.
Continuing to pray for you, your Loving Spouse, Team Offspring, the house, the cows, the chickens, the ducks, the horses and that Damned Cat! Soak up all the love coming your way. Thanks for sharing your life with us in so many wonderful ways! You are a blessing!
I appreciate each one. Thank you dear friend!
Dear Ellen,
Just read this so did not pray for you during surgery, but will certainly pray for the best possible outcome and keep you and yours in my prayers, also. Sending positive thoughts, smiles and hugs your way.
Fondly, Kathy J
Dear Kathy,
Thank you so much. I am glad to have made it home, but this will be a long recovery. I appreciate each prayer and thought sent my way.
You have been in my thoughts and prayers since your last email. Praying for you today for an excellent outcome and a smooth healing process. Sending love and hugs to you my friend and continuous prayers. Love Judy
Thank you dear friend, for each prayer and for loving me!
Dear Ellen, Of course I will pray daily for you. May all go well and as easy as possible for you. Hope you will be home soon feeding the chickens and milking the cows. You will be in my prayers for a speedy recovery and positive test results. Trudy McKay
Thank you so very much, Trudy. I have now come home for a long recovery. I appreciate each friend and prayer@ Bless you.
We really wish we were home to visit you this week. But we are saying prayers for you, and will be thinking of you tomorrow! Love, Sue and Gary
Thinking good thoughts for you!🙏
Keep us updated.
My Dear Ellen,
You have been so courageous throughout this nightmare, and I am exceedingly proud of you for knocking down that barrier and sharing your personal story at this particular time. Think of the army of us all praying for you tomorrow! My first prayers were answered already because instead of a dire diagnosis you have one that offers hope. My prayers now will be for an uncomplicated operation and a smooth recovery. You have everything else– The tremendous gift of FAITH to give you peace and courage. HOPE because your doctors do not expect a life-threatening outcome. And of course abundant LOVE from so many sources. The rest will fall into place. You are blessed, I agree. But do you know in your heart how much of a blessing you are to all of us in your life???
Love and prayers–
Pat
Oh Ellen! I am wrapping you in a big loving HUG. I am praying that all goes well with your surgery. And I am hoping that your recovery is quicker than expected. Be kind to yourself during this time and accept all the help that is offered. Be well, my friend.
And I hope those silly cows do not get out. But if they do, they will decide on their own to come back home.
My dear Ellen, I am sure that you will be OK and that the surgeons will look after you just fine. My thoughts and prayers are with you from this side of the pond.
Oh Ellen! Will definitely being holding you in a big hug from afar….an Ellen hug!! Thanks for sharing….we all care about you and your family very much!! Hope all goes BETTER than expected! Xo
Sending love & prayers for your surgery & recovery!❤️ Hope you have some hand quilting, crossword puzzle books, magazines and or books you haven’t time to read in your “real” life to keep you occupied while down. After my surgery I did coloring books too. Maybe put together a box of card making supplies ready to keep you busy. I always think of you when I’m making cards! Wish I lived. Lose enough to visit!❤️