News. . .

I hope everyone had a wonderful 4th of July holiday.

The great news today is that Erinn, Rich and Tommy are expecting a baby Girl in December! Congratulations to you all! Love and hugs to you, too!

Post-Father's Day...

I think he had a terrific Father's Day!!! I love this man. Happy Father's Day Daddy -- the newest member of the Old Hickory Country Club.

Check out my bumper crop of strawberries. This is my first attempt at growing them so I'm pretty excited. They are so cute I could just eat them up!! Cereal anyone?

Happy Father's Day to all the cool dads out there. One of the very best lives at 701!!! Love you my daddy!!!!!!!!!

Hello Friends

Is it June or August? The hot weather says August......

Dad's been keeping busy taking care of the beloved cats.

One picture is of the gold ones he calls the "bookends". They are Goldie and Keystone. The black magic cat is Odie and then the "precious one" is Maizie.

Dad played golf yesterday (9 holes) with his brother, Lamar. He was exhausted when he got home, but he had a great time....a couple beers later he was revived!

Mom's never very far away from every thought -- knowing she's there is a comfort.

LIFE IS CHANGED..........

Not a day passes without a thought (many) and prayer for Mother and all of us who have been left behind. It has been extremely hard knowing the "moving on" process for Daddy is the most difficult because words over the phone cannot heal his loss. It is helpful to know that Patti and others are there to support and console him and each other. It seems the healing process is about moments of remembering good thoughts, laughter in the day, talking and realizing that Mother's presence is still with us.

A day at a time without Mom. . .

We're beyond the 2 week mark since Mom's passing and we are hanging in there. I am so proud of Dad -- although his heart is broken and he is somewhat lost, he pushes himself each day. He has taken walks at the Mall and Wallyworld (our newest super Walmart). Yesterday, Dad ventured to the driving range at Pebble Brook Golf Course and said it was a "good break from reality." He also telephoned a few friends to let them know he's ready for conversation. Mom would be pleased.

I've missed posting and keeping up with the blog. If anybody is still out there.............HI, I've missed you. Teri

we will continue on...

It's been a week since dear Mom left us to live with Jesus. We have been winding down by someone leaving each day rather than all at the same time. Vonnie was the last to leave out this morning, flying back home to Florida. I returned to work, and Dad's home with the cats and Mom's memories (and Krystal's for lunch).

Oh, and Teri turned 60 yesterday. Happy Birthday sister... I love you.

THE END of mom's life her on earth......THE BEGINNING of mom's eternal life with God the Father, the angels, and all the saints in heaven.
Mom passed peacefully into the next life this evening with Dad, Patti, and Teri at her side. She left this world with people who loved her lifting her up to those who love her even more.
Momma we love you.............Amen.

Motho has such a strong will to live and made it through another long night. It is still a comforting feeling to know that Motho is still with us and her presence is what gives us strength. That is why this day comes with mixed emotions to want to let go or keep holding on.
We all know that the angels are on constant watch by her bedside to care for her and keep her comfortable. The Grandest Angel of all has been Patti through this very difficult time. We will never ever be able to express our gratitude for the loving and caring that she has provided Motho and the comfort that she has given Daddy through this hard journey. For all you have done Patti, we say Thank you and We Love You.

Mom is in the transitional stage of her end of life. Angel-nurse, Diane, said this morning that her passing could come at any time. The best is yet to come for our wonderful mom but, at the same time, the worst is yet to come for her family. Knowing your prayers are comforting us is a blessing I never truly understood until now. Love and peacefulness surround us. Thank you, friends!
Ronnie came in from Texas yesterday and plans to stay and be with her (and us). Good for him--a great son and brother. I spent the night at the folks last night. I'm home to clean up and get a few things and will spend the night there again. It just seems like the right place to be--and the place I want to be.

It is with heavy hearts that we realize that Mom's condition is so very grave and that she has reached the transitional stage from life to death. We know we are nearing the end.

Mom was still pretty aware on Friday and I told that I had a vision of all our family and friends that were holding her up in prayer, that I pictured all of us together physically raising Mom up and she was going higher and higher, and the cancer was dropping, the diabetes was dropping, her heart disease and other ailments were leaving her body and that she looked above and saw the huge arms of God reaching down to take her.

Mom opened her eyes, looked at me and said "that's a good story."

We love you, Mom.

Patti wrote at the beginning of the week and I'll close it out. Mom continues to decline but still refuses to give in to this thing. She's been sleeping alot and, when she is awake, she is very weak. Don't get me wrong, she still has her sense of humor and throws out a zinger now and then. We continue to laugh and smile with her.
Her appetite is gone--just a bite or two now and then. Dad brought her a couple donuts holes with some coffee this morning. When nurse, Diane, was with her this afternoon mom commented that they weren't Krispy Kreme. The woman knows what she likes! There WILL be Krispy Kremes when I go over there tomorrow.
Wilson came in for a few days and was able to visit with her. She's been waiting for him. He said she dozed whil he was with her but I think, even in sleep, she hears our voices and it makes her happy.
Continue in prayer. Happy week-end to all. T

A new week

Mom has a good day and then she falls back with a couple of bad ones. I don't mean to be the "gloomy gus" but Saturday's birthday party was absolutely terrific, followed by a couple of difficult nights for Mom. We'll continue to pray for more lively days for Mom and deal with the difficult ones as they come.

DAD'S 85th BIRTHDAY

Larry, Glenda, Patti, Russ and I, mom and dad celebrated dad's birthday Saturday. The evening got off to a good start with mom feasting on a dozen oysters on the half shell. She may not have much of an appetite anymore but she sure downed those suckers! While she 'recovered' in bed, the rest of us enjoyed ribs and steaks Patti grilled, baked potatoes and salad. After we ate we all piled into mom's room for a birthday toast. Mom even sipped a bit of the bubbley. As you can see in the picture, we got a visit from a birthday gnome. He had such a fun time he's decided to take up residence at 701. He knows a good place when he sees one! And a good time was had by all............we cherish the good times--and this definitely was one of them!

add-on from Teri

Just wanted to add a quick note to what Patti posted. Mom had another pretty good day today (Fri). She spent the day in bed but we chatted a few times and then she would take a little nap while I tried to get a few things done. Late this afternoon she sat in the chair while I got some fresh sheets on the bed. She wanted to take a shower--I think she wants to get clean and sweet smelling for dad's birthday tomorrow. This is the first time I've had to help her into and out of the tub--quite a scarey task! Those beautiful, strong legs just don't work like they used to. We made it though and now she's clean and moisturized and sitting (laying) pretty. She was ready to rest after all that exertion---me too.
I'm sure she'll be 'up' for dad's birthday tomorrow. Maybe we can get her to sit on the porch again...if the storms don't keep us inside.
My love to all who read this. Have a great week end.

Each day is different

After the wonderful visits the weekend with family and friends, Mom rested good on Monday. Nurse Angel Diane came Tuesday with Dr. Nyugen (an extremely caring doctor). We were, however, disappointed to learn that Mom could not have the aspiration procedure done at the house due to the position of the mass -- it would require a hospital visit and possible overnight stay. At the present time, Mom is really not intersted with the bother of it all . . . and as we all know, Mom's still the boss.

Wednesday, Mom was weary; she had trouble focusing and was a bit confused. But Thursday was a brand new day. She was in good spirits and was able to sit outside on the patio with Dad for a bit. Her comfort level is best when she is lying down, but she loves enjoying the beautiful spring days we have been blessed with.

We know loving thoughts and an outpouring of prayer is holding our family up. Thank you all for that.

Even though mom is experiencing quite a bit of bloating and some nausea, we certainly have had a wonderful past few days. Vonnie got here last Wednesday. Not only did she get to visit with mom, she got to experience her first spring in close to 30 years. I'm glad we've had a beautiful one (just for her). The dogwoods, azaleas, irises, etc made her "ooh" and "ah" as we drove around. It was fun to share it with her. I've always loved spring but her enthusiasm reminded me of how blessed we are (even with the pollen problems) to have such beautiful seasons.

Mom got a visit from 2 wonderful neighbors who have been wanting to visit. Peggy Dycus and Loretta Webb, long-time friends, saw us on the front porch and came to see mom. They stayed about 30 minutes and we all talked of "the good old days". They were some good times! I hope they will get to visit again. (In the photo, Peggy is on the left, Loretta on the right)

Larry, Glenda, Elisha and her friend, Kate, came Saturday afternoon. I hope Elisha and Kate read this-- Thank you for coming all the way from Memphis. 3 hours here and 3 hours back is quite a drive in one day. I'm especially grateful to Kate for driving so Elisha could sleep. She's keeping those doctor's hours at the hospital. She has a 30+ hour shift starting today. Whew, better her than me.

I know mom (and dad) must be exhausted today and must be looking forward to getting back to their routine but, as I said before, it has been a wonderful few days. Lots of remembering and reminiscing. Vonnie and Patti are good at asking questions and it's unbelievable all that mom can recall--going w-a-y back. What a mind!

Blessings to all.

YOU GOTTA HAVE FRIENDS....

I had dinner tonight with my 'girls' night out' group. I want to thank them for the heartfelt hugs and the sympathy and support they expressed . I have other friends who have expressed the same thing in the days since we learned of mom' cancer. To each and every one of you, I want you to know you are loved and you are so very dear to me. My entire family is grateful for all the prayers I know you are saying for us.
This blog is about mom and I don't want to take up too much space about me but I have to take the time to tell you I'm thankful you are in my life; I'm grateful for what you have given to me; I am a richer person for knowing each one of you. You know, you just make me happy!
God bless you and keep you.

Just sweet . . .

Oh my gosh, I just met one of those "angels in everyday people" you always hear about! The hospice nurse who will be seeing mom came to the house today to introduce herself; get and give information; and get to know us. She walked in the door with a beautiful smile and hugs all around. At the McCoy house, that's all it takes.
Our guide-angel's name is Diane Gupton from Odyssey Healthcare. She shared alot of information but shared herself too. Her mom died of breast cancer 2 years ago so she knows, personally, the fears and the sorrow we will be dealing with. You know, God has dealt us a blow but He's sent us someone beatiful to help us through this frightening journey. How blessed we are.
And on we go....................

Hurray, Vonnie gets to come to Nashville for a few days. I know she has been crazy sad that she wouldn't be able to see mom until her trip up here this summer. Time is precious these days. She called today and has managed to get a lady to take her class at school--not an easy task at their Christian school.
As I know it now, she is scheduled to be here next Wednesday and visit until Saturday or Sunday. She'll even be able to enjoy our beautiful spring. It's been a while since she's seen it. You don't get beautiful season changes when you live in the Keys. I look forward to her being here!

Springtime

After the meeting with Mom's compassionate and forthright oncologist, Mom is now ready to sign up for in-home hospice care. The doctor has assured Mom that this is absolutely the best thing she can do. With hospice, they will begin a once-a-week visit. Mom is beginning to feel some uncomfortable symptoms from this thing, such as distended belly and extreme feeling of fullness.

Mom is enjoying the beautiful days of spring by sitting out on the patio with Dad and the cats. This is her favorite time of year with God's signature visible everywhere.

Time for another "lump in the stomach" feeling--We are heading back to the oncologist today. Now that mom has made her decision, we need to find out more specifics about what will be happening in the coming months and weeks.
Patti or I will let you know what we find out. Deep breath...............

Odyssey Healthcare

When we hear the word "hospice" we naturally panic and think "the end of life". But in reality, the basic premise of hospice is "The desire to enhance the quality of one's life no matter the duration".

We met with a nurse from Odyssey Healthcare and learned about what it means to be in hospice care -- discovering that it's really not too soon to have them as part of our lives at the beginning of Mom's diagnosis so that they can get to know her in a healthier state and will be able to recognize declines in her health. More information to process and we will certainly be back in touch with them soon.

From the Founder of the Modern Day Hospice Movement:

"You matter because of who you are.

You matter to the last moment of your life,

and we will do all we can, not only to help you die peacefully,

but also to live until you die".

What a wonderful time we had at the folks house today. All the Plano McCoys were there. The weather was beautiful so the little guys, Landon and McKoen, got to play outside and have an Easter egg hunt. There we people in the house, on the porch, in the yard..(hey, we're a big group). We had my famous (within the family) lazagna and all sorts of refreshments to quench our thirsts. Megan brought a DELICIOUS cake she had made. It was in the shape of an Easter bonnet! (Check out her blog at meganscakesandmore.blogspot.com) Man, it was fun!
Good, quality time with mom and dad. Everyone took lots of pictures and will, hopefully, share them with each other soon. I'll post one of them soon. Even McKoen, at 2 years old, got in on the act. I gave him my camera and he started snapping away. Of course, none of them turned out but he had fun.
Some of the family will be heading back to Texas tomorrow and some will leave Wednesday. Safe traveling to all whenever you leave. I hope you took away from our gathering today the love and warmth I'm feeling now.

Love you more!

Attended Mr. Craig's funeral today. Visitations and funerals are such an touching mix of tears and laughter--the celebration of love and the sadness of that love lost. We all know he will live on in the hearts and fond memories of his family and friends.
Happy Easter to all. God bless.

Easter Wishes

My wish to you all

for a beautiful,

blessed and

extra-ordinary Easter!

Message to Plano McCoys (our Texas clan)

I am so sorry for your loss. A great family man and retired Marine -- Ray Craig -- or "Pops" to Megan, Maxie, Craig and Jack, passed away over the weekend. You all take care, travel safe and we will see you soon. Love to you all.

Uncertainties

I can't wait until the smile returns --

I can't wait until we all smile again...

Johnny and Dottie stopped by the folks house today. I was just leaving to get to a chiropractor's appt so, unfortunately, couldn't stay and visit. It was great to see them even for the short time I got to stay. They brought a beautiful bluebird in a tree plant holder for mom. The cool thing was--it was FULL of Easter candy. And yes, I took a couple pieces even before mom got to see it. Johnny offered--I accepted--couldn't be rude!
The visit was unexpected and greatly appreciated.

Mom's strong will (aka-stubbornness) has worked for her for so long but now, it seems, it's going to work against us. As the doctor said, "I'll respect your decision whether I agree with it or not."
Man, this is tough but we know God will see us through this. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart......."

Decisions, decisions...

Mom woke up this morning and proclaimed that she will not undergo chemotherapy. She is very comfortable and confident in her decision. This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice in it. Tomorrow will be another day and we will again rejoice.

Thanks to those who have joined in. Megan, Maxie, BiggEE.... and dear, dear friends of Dad, Betty and Bill, lovingly known as Granny and Bobo (threeputt).

It's Saturday morning and I find myself wanting to "check the blog". I checked it 3 or 4 times yesterday. You guys know me--that 'ain't' like me at all. Can't wait for all to get on board. I hope my enthusiasm doesn't wane. Have a good week-end everyone.

Well, Teri's on board. It's taken me most of the afternoon to get this far. Such an internet dummy! Patti and I have come up with the "Family Village Idiot" for me. If the shoe fits.........
I agree with Patti about yesterday's doctor visit being life altering. Thoughts of mom (and dad) have kept popping into my mind all day. I'm hoping this feeling in the pit of my stomach will ease up soon.
I'm looking forward to keeping up with this. I'm not the wordsmith I was many years ago but will do the best I can.
We'll keep Mac and Ilo in the forefront and have some fun with them. Love to all here..and there.

The saga began.....

The saga began March 10 with a trip to the emergency room. Mom was extremely weak with low sugar and blood pressure and fell out. Wee-hoo, another ride in the ambulance. Once at the Emergency Room, during the routine physical exam, a mass was found in Mom’s belly area. She had a CT scan and the next day followed up with an ultrasound. On St. Patrick’s Day, she had a biopsy. On March 23, her Primary Care Physician confirmed ovarian cancer. We were referred to a GYN Oncologist at Baptist Hospital named Dr. John Wheelock. The visit to Dr. Wheelock was informative, frightening, life-altering, heart-breaking and simply glum.

It’s amazing how a sequin of events can change your life forever. Unexpectedly, your focus changes to the here and now. The whole ordeal is hard to wrap your hands around because Mom is feeling absolutely no ill effects from this thing that she affectionately calls “Bubba”. I think that’s why it is and will be difficult for Mom to make a decision to battle something that’s not giving her any trouble. The adage of “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” comes to mind. I can imagine Mom saying “it’s not bothering me so why should I bother it”. So we take it one day at a time. Mom will decide how to go forward and we will respect and support whatever she chooses. We love that woman!

This is where we begin....

Hello family.

This is my first blog, my first post, my first experience with what the hell a blog even is. Wow, this is sorta fun. To begin, I have added Vonnie, Teri, Larry, Ronnie and Dad as authors (Megan told me how to do that -- thanks Meg). Now you guys have to figure out the rest. I think the next step is to email the blog sight to anyone else we want. Now that I've gotten this far, I think I will go read some more instructions. For now, ta ta.