Friday, October 2, 2009

When it Rains...

Good Morning! I have no idea who may be reading this after the long absence of postings here lately, but should you be reading this, I have yet more disappointing news to share.

I had decided to return to the CDS design team in time to produce November sneak peeks, but there has been a family medical concern that is taking my focus away from anything else. My father who has been living independently (my mother passed away in 2000), as a leg amputee (he does wear a prosthesis and can walk), has developed an aneurysm behind the knee of his "good leg". It is rather large and will require surgery either with a stent or bypass surgery. My father has arteriosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) and lost his leg to an aneurysm in 1978, after several bypass attempts were made, that failed. So, you can imagine the fear that he has of losing this other leg should this new aneursym surgery should fail. That would render him a double amputee and would certainly change the dynamic of his independent living. Us children (my sister, my brother and myself), may be facing some decisions regarding our father's care should the surgery not succeed. So, because of this, I have decided that returning to CDS as a design team member is not in the best interest of CDS, as my focus is foremost on my father. We do not have a surgery date at this time, as he is still in the midst of more testing and needs to see a cardiologist for cardiac clearance, as well (he has had 3 heart attacks). My focus and my time will be directed toward my family and although I regret that I am not able to return to CDS at this time, I feel that it is the right decision.

That doesn't mean that I won't be posting card-related posts. I hope that at some point after my father's surgery, I'll be able to stamp and relax for therapy and I will share those creations when I do. On a positive note, I have some news to share...I have, for some time, not been happy with my blog photo of my little yellow cottage. So, I have asked my sister, Dianne Dashler, who is an artist, if she would "sketch" my little yellow cottage. She has just finished her final rendering and as soon as I receive it in the mail, I will be anxious to colorize it and hope to upload it to my blog in 2-3 weeks. It is a big difference in artwork and hope that you come back to see it.

16 comments:

Stacy Morgan said...

Oh Linda I will keep you father in prayer as well as you and your siblings. This can not be easy for anyone. God Bless and big hugs...

Tricia T said...

Linda, I'll be praying for you and your family. I'm looking forward to seeing your "new" little yellow cottage! :-)

Candy F. said...

Prayers are being said for you and your family. Take it one day at a time and remember to take care of yourself too.

Kevin Renz said...

So sorry to hear this Linda, but I'm hoping for the very best for your father and peace of mind for you.

Cassie said...

Linda, bless your heart for all that you've been enduring. I'll be praying for your father and your family, and I pray that God will bless your decision.

In Him,
Cassie
Jeremiah 29:11

Linda Anderson said...

Oh Linda, my heart and prayers go out to you and your family. Please keep us updated.

Linda

Shawne said...

Linda, my heart breaks for your father. I don't know what to say...I'm just sorry that you are having such a difficult time and your family too. My thoughts are with you. I'll be watching for your new cottage rendering, I'm sure it will be gorgeous!

Anonymous said...

Prayers and hugs coming your way Linda!

peggysue said...

Keeping your father and family in my prayers. I have to admit, I will miss your sneak peeks as you are such a talented stamper.

I am looking forward to seeing your artists' rendition of your little yellow cottage.

Dawn B. said...

Linda I am so sorry to hear this. You will be in my thoughts and prayers daily.. I know it must be so stressful. I can't wait to see your new little yellow house but I really like this one. It looks like such a happy place..Hugs to you..

@JoyceCasaldi said...

Linda, keeping you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.

Judy Rozema said...

Linda, as I am going through a serious time with my father as well, I can so empathize and totally understand what you are going through. How wonderful that your father has you and your siblings. What a difficult time for all of you! I will be praying that the surgery goes well, and for wisdom in decision making in the weeks ahead. You are in my thoughts and prayers!

Mrs. Nancy G said...

I am so sorry to read the news. I've had some similar life events like this over the summer. It does take its toll on creativity and motivation. I am so thankful for the prayers and support that everyone has given and I am finally at a place of peace and contentment. Which must be God given. You are in my prayers tonight Linda.

Sincerely,
~nance

Laurie Wilson said...

I'm so sorry to hear about your father. You are a wonderful daughter to dedicate such sweet care for him in his time of need. Do not lose heart and just trust in our sweet Lord to give you strength and endurance. I simply am excited about your new blog banner rendering... I will be checking weekly to see when you get it up!

@JoyceCasaldi said...

Hi Linda, thanks for stopping by my blog. I know things are still tough for you and your family. Will keep you in our prayers.

Since you asked about having something fun planned I wanted to share with you our plans. Tomorrow we are going to a spa treatment, then she is going to a dance with friends. And on the weekend we are going to take her and a few of her friends out to dinner. So we have a full weekend planned.

Hugs,
Joyce

Karen Lynn said...

Linda, I hope your dad's surgery is a smooth and successful one.