November 10, 2007

This posting is long overdue, as I had a rough couple of days with occasional fever and poor appetite. But now that I have some anti-nausea medicine, I am feeling more healthy and energetic today. Hopefully this will do the trick for a while.

In fact, this morning I was able to resume a standing date "Saturday morning at Starbucks" that Mike and I have been sharing for about 8 years. What a treat to be out with my loving husband on a beautiful morning. I then attended mass this afternoon for the first time in weeks. Some normalcy is finally falling into place, thanks to all of your prayers.

Today's priest was visiting from Chicago, on a mission to raise funds for "Food for the Poor." I am always humbled when reminded of what unnecessary suffering there is in this world, and pray that I pay more attention in the future. We in America are all blessed in so many ways.

Another treat today was a "web-cam" session with my mother and a few sisters. (If you have distant relatives/friends that you would like to see more often, I highly recommend this.) Anyway, their smiling faces were heart-warming. I offered to show them my "owies" over the camera, but they wisely declined. ;-)

I wish I could reply to each of you individually. But until I can, please know that your words are food for my soul. I cherish every letter!

Counting my blessings,
Maureen

MORE PRAYERS FROM COLORADO! Judy Kludt November 10, 2007 at 12:40 PM MST
Maureen and family: Just read your update. I am so grateful for those. We are continuing our prayers every day! More later, God Bless you all. Judy, Paul Kludt and family
Blessings Alan Sears November 10, 2007 at 09:01 AM MST
Just learned from Mike about all in your lives right now. Please know that your neighbors down the street are praying for you and available to help you with any needs - just call. Many blessings. Paula and Alan Sears
Michigan hello Collin Casey November 09, 2007 at 08:13 PM MST
Great to hear from you, Maureen! Just to let you know we sent you a little package that you should recieve on Saturday. Tracy has a friend who recently went through Chemo, and complained of the aftertaste, she said that sucking on lemmon drops, or hard candy help a lot. If you don't like, I'm sure someone around there willl eat them up! Also some other fun things enclosed, hope you enjoy. We love you and pray for you everyday! God Bless- Collin, Tracy, Sean, Cameron & Jake
Fighting the good fight! Katie Braun November 09, 2007 at 08:12 PM MST
Hi Maureen, Paul talked to Mike today and was told of your cancer. I felt the need to write you and tell you that you will be at the top of our prayer list. We also believe in the power of prayer and have seen its rewards. My cancer is back after 9 years and I too am fighting the good fight. I am stage 4 and I have had no new tumor growth since treatment started. How wonderful it is to have all the love and support from family and friends. I will say extra prayers for Mike and the boys. I think it is harder on those we love then it is for us. God Bless you Maureen. -Katie Braun WWW.caringbridge.org (my site)
Crisp, fall days in South Dakota Terry Casey November 09, 2007 at 11:03 AM MST
Maureen, you are a writer! The Telluride story will stay in my memory forever. When I was there last week, I thought about that one shortfall of your dog as I was taking out the dark blue throw rugs for a good shaking. What I love about that dog is how attentive he is to you and what wonderful company he is for everyone. Thanks, for sharing these precious stories for all of us who would like to be with you. We are having beautiful fall weather and enjoying the falling leaves. Many Hail Mary's coming your way. Love, Sharon

Sunfish Lake Katie and Joe Casey November 12, 2007 at 02:41 AM MST
I miss digging for worms in the backyard together, and taking 'em fishing with us at Sunfish Lake. Lets do that again soon.
Bless you Maureen and family! Judy Kludt November 11, 2007 at 05:49 PM MST
I was so glad to get your update - again as I always am. It did my heart good to hear that you and Mike went out on your date to "Starbucks" on Saturday morning. I could just feel the warmth generated from you in your update and imagined just how wonderful Mike must have felt also - just to be with you and smiling, loving and being grateful for each day. I keep my kids updated on your progress also and they all send hugs and prayers to you all. Love and prayers. Judy and Paul Kludt and family
A Maureen sighting Jacque Ingemansen November 11, 2007 at 05:35 PM MST
Webcams are amazing! It was wonderful serendipity to get to talk with you on Sat. Maureen! You looked beautiful and strong, dressed in your Nike sweatshirt! The Starbucks Date needs to be your goal every week! To see your smile and hear your tinkling laugh was so heartwarming! I do miss you. Mike and JP look like they are taking wonderful care of you. It truly was Mom's highlight and comfort to see and talk to you. Sending my love, dear sister.
Thinking of You Mike Madden November 11, 2007 at 02:39 PM MST
Hi Maureen, Andy and I wanted to send our thoughts and prayers to you, Mike and boys. We have been thinking of you for several weeks. You are a beautiful person inside and out. Your faith, courage and strength are a true inspiration. So glad we found out about Care Pages from Mary Holland and Dan. We'll be bringing dinner over on Tuesday night and look forward to seeing you then! Love and Blessings, The Maddens
Love to you! Jeanne Hassel November 10, 2007 at 09:30 PM MST
Great that you had your Starbucks and Mass moments. Thanks for the updates Maureen! We love Ya! The Hassels in SD