Major Lisa Taylor

"I know what it is to be in need I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any & every situation." Phil 4:12-13

2010-05-01T08:48:00.009-04:00

Top of the morning, friends!

I hope this blog entry finds you all well!

Things are going well here....I'm enjoying my job immensely and it continues to challenge me! I really believe in the mission of the organization and I'm thankful to be a small part of it! Several of my co-workers and I were planning to walk a 5K today for the "Commit to Be Fit" event in Columbus. Unfortunately, the weather didn't coorperate, so we cancelled (yes....we are wimps! :). We hope to do a few more this summer though.

The book sales for "Was it Irony...Or Was it God?" are going well too. If anyone is interested in purchasing a copy, you can contact me via email at stafflt@sbcglobal.net and give me your address & I'll get one to you asap. Thank you to everyone who has supported me in this endeavor. It means more than you know.

Stars Consulting, LLC also continues to grow. In fact, we spent a couple of weekends in Pickerington recently mapping out a crash scene where a young boy was hit. The victims certainly make our work worthwhile!

Teaching is going well--I have a great group of kids this quarter. Terri Mikesh, a K9 handler for the OSP came in and served as a guest for my "Patrol Operations" class. She and her K9 Marco did a demo for the kids and did a tremendous job teaching drug interdiction! The kids actually stayed AFTER class to ask Terri questions. Marco was a hit and had to visit each student individually! He's such a social butterfly! Thanks Terri for another great detail!

Congratulations to my buddy Dianna White - She's getting promoted to the much deserved rank of Staff Lieutenant on Tuesday! Way to go, Dirty Di!

Also, happy birthday to another one of my dearest friends -- Wendy
Forbes!

Please keep the following people in your prayers, as they are all fighting some type of

battle:

Phil Vermilion

Joyce Petty

Roger Farley

Lex & Oakley the Malis

Toni Daniels

Jen Stabler

If anyone has specific prayer requests, let me know...I'd gladly put them on the blog!

Quotes for the day:

"Many times, when I was having a hard time with one of my children, God would always remind me that He was having a harder time with me than I was with them"

- Charles "Tremendous" Jones -

_________________________________

"Our destinies in life will never be determined by our complaining spirits or high expectations. Life is full of surprises and the adjustment of our attitudes is a life-long project"

- John Maxwell -

Until next time, be blessed!

Lisa - 1095

Sunday, March 14, 2010 - "Words from a wise man's mouth are gracious, but a fool is consumed by his own lips" - Ecclesiastes 10:12 (NIV)

2010-03-14T20:19:00.011-04:00

Top of the evening, friends!

I hope this blog finds you all well!

I don't think I have ever been so glad to see February be over! And, I don't care to ever see another snowflake again (LOL)! The above picture is on a hiking trip through Deer Creek just a couple of weeks ago. Boy, was I glad I had my new hiking sticks (compliments of my sister, Terry), because there was still quite a bit of snow I had to walk over and through. Trish, Chrissy, Amy, and I were glad to get out and actually get some exercise since we've all been cooped up all month.

The other picture is the cover of my new book, "Was It Irony...Or Was It God?" The book is finally in print and is available to order. The price is $14.99. Should anyone want a copy, email me at stafflt@sbcglobal.net and I will give you additional directions on how to obtain one. The book began as court preparation and slowly evolved into something very therapeutic for me. I greatly appreciate all the support and prayers during my recovery process. Those of you who prayed, attended the benefit, visited, cooked for me, mowed my grass, etc... I will be forever grateful. God continues to take care of me through my family and friends!

After one and a half months, the new job is going well, but I still have much to learn. Fortunately for me, the lady who had my job before me has been gracious enough to come over a few times in the evenings to try to teach me her trade. She, and the other employees have been wonderful to me since I started.

I just finished a juvenile delinquency class this week, and start another class on police patrol operations later this month. My class and I took a really interesting trip to a juvenile correctional facility on our last night. The visit was very informative, and I believe very eye opening for many of my students. After this next class, however, I plan to take the summer off from teaching, as there's LOTS of motorcycling to do! LOL

The business continues to do well, and we are going to map a new crash scene around Pickerington in the weeks to come. One of my business partners, Steve, made me a WONDERFUL gluten-free tiramasu birthday cake last month! His culinary skills never cease to amaze me! I am wondering if Julia Childs might not secretly be his mother!

Praise report! Dad got an excellent doctor's report this week. He does, however, have a few kidney stones still giving him fits, but he's gained weight and feels better all the time.

Please keep the following people in your prayers, as they are all fighting some type of battle:

Sandy B.

Joyce P.

Roger

Phil V.

Amy the beagle

Tom T.

Jen S.

Lex & Oakley the Mali's (both dogs are pets of my friends Terri & Jen and have both been stricken with cancer in the last few months. Lex had breast cancer, and Oakley had a leg removed due to bone cancer. Oakley is just beginning chemotherapy now)

Quotes for the day:

"If you're still hanging onto a dead dream of yesterday, laying flowers on its grave by the hour, you cannot be planting the seeds for a new dream to grow today"

- Joyce Chapman -

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

"To admit you were wrong is to declare you are wiser than you were before"

- Unknown -

Until next time, be blessed!

Lisa - 1095

February 6, 2010 - "Godliness with contentment is great gain" - 1 Tim 6:6

2010-02-06T12:53:00.010-05:00

Top of the afternoon, friends!

I hope this blog entry finds you all well on this cold, snowy day!

I started my new job this past Monday--and so far, I love it! I have much to learn in my new postion, but I hope my co-workers are patient with me as I ask a multitude of questions! Everyone there has been great and they have already made me feel like one of the family!

Finally, my book, "Was it Irony....Or Was it God" is in the publication process. I hope to have it printed in the next 3 months or so. The cover and back cover have been approved, and the manuscript is in the process of being typeset. It's not a long book, but one that started out as court preparation and evolved into something very therapeutic for me. The basis of the book is how God had his hand on me WAY before, during, and after the crash. He prepared everything in my life--from my family, to my friends....to my finances. I wanted to put many more pictures in the book, to thank those of you who supported and helped me, but unfortunately, each picture that is added is quite expensive, so I had to pare down the photos in the book. But please remember, I appreciate each and every one of you who stood by me during some pretty dark days!

Just prior to starting work, Trish, Christy, Kelli and I took a weeklong trip to Key West. We had a GREAT and relaxing time on the beach, jet skiing, kayaking, and just walking down Duvall Street. We even took a sunset cruise where Kelli demonstrated her singing ability with the band. I'm not sure, but I think there might be a recording contract in the works (lol). Christy helped raise the sails on the boat. You should have seen her "heaving and ho-ing!" While there, we were able to have dinner with my good friend, Lt. Kathy McKinney, of the Florida State Patrol. She is the commander of the Keys (tough job!!). We had a wonderful time visiting!

Congratulations to Lt. Colonel Bill Costas and Major Bob Booker of the Patrol. They retired Friday. The Patrol was richer because of those two gentlemen. The best of luck to them in whatever future endeavors they pursue!

Quotes for the Day:

"We can draw lessons from the past, but we cannot live in it"

- Lyndon B. Johnson -

____________________________

"If you treat an individual...as if he were what he ought to be, and could be, he will become what he ought to be and could be"

- Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe -

Please keep the following people in your prayers, as they are all fighting some battle:

Joyce P.
Phil V.
Roger
Molly's dad
Terri S.R.
The OSP
Oakley the Mali

Here is an sad, but eye opeing DUI prevention video for you (be prepared):

http://www.fpk11a.com/Dui.html

Until next time...be blessed!

Lisa - 1095

January 12, 2010 - "Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord"

2010-01-12T11:08:00.004-05:00

Top of the morning, friends!

I hope this blog entry finds you all well and recovering from the holidays! Mine was great--I was able to spend some time with my family in Middletown.

Things have been extremely busy here. I started teaching Juvenile Delinquency at Ohio University on 1/4--and have a full class of 35 students! I am amazed at what these guys and gals teach me! They are a great group of students! I will also be teaching another class on Police Patrol Operations in the spring. I look forward to that class as well. I have taught it several times, and it is "right up my alley" in terms of subject matter.

Our consulting business continues to do well, particularly for a first-year start-up company. While we would love to be busier, we couldn't be more pleased with how we did in 2009.

I have a praise report. As many of you know, I've been in the job hunt for about a year. And it has been a long and arduous process. I have been offered a senior operations manager position with a local correctional facilty, and begin work in February. I'm very excited about this, as I'll help oversee the finances, HR, IT, Foodservices, among other things. I'm thrilled to be getting back into goverment services because that's what I know and enjoy. Please keep me in your prayers that this is THE job that God has prepared for me. While it's a lot of what I did for the Patrol, I know I have much to learn. I'll keep you posted on my progress.

Dad is doing well, but does go in for his hernia surgery on Thursday. It is supposed to be an outpatient procedure. We pray all goes well and he'll be up and ready for fishing season this spring!

While it's not her, the above picture looks so much like my dog Chrissy, that I just had to post it! Even more ironic....she HATES cats!

Please keep the following people in your thoughts and prayers, as they are all facing some type of battle:

Joyce P.

My dad, Ross

Erin H.

Dave D.

Roger

Phil V.

Quotes for the day:

"Ability is what you're capable of doing. Motivation determines what you do. Attitude determines how well you do it"

- Lou Holtz -

_____________________

"It's not enough to do our best; sometimes we have to do what is required"

- Winston Churchill -

Below is a video about what's really important in life that I thought you'd all enjoy!

Until next time....Be blessed!

Lisa - 1095

December 18, 2009 - "A pretentious, showy life is an empty life; a plain and simple life is a full life" (Prov. 13:7)

2009-12-18T10:45:00.010-05:00

Top of the afternoon, friends....

I hope this all finds you well and cheerfully preparing for the Christmas holiday!

The theme of this month's blog is Giving. I hope that in some way, you're helping those less fortunate than yourselves during the holidays (and throughout the rest of the year). We ALL have more than we need...please share with those that don't.

Just recently, my friend Trish and I have been trying to help a homeless gentleman in Columbus. He lives in an old metal silo, with no electricity, water, or heat--other than what a small kerosene heater provides. His name is Roger and he is suffering from some medical issues as well. We've been taking him food, coffee, kerosene, as well as some reading material to help him get by. He has applied for SSI, and we pray he'll be approved soon, so he can get into an apartment, and off the streets. He is also waiting for a surgery date to help correct those medical issues. The above picture is where Roger lives. Many homeless people live hopeless lives without help.

I am so thankful that I am going to be able to spend Christmas Eve with my family and friends. I couldn't care less about the gift part of what we do, but I so love our meal and time together. We do a "Yankee Christmas" exchange with the adults. If you don't know what that is, it's where each person in the group draws a number. The person with #1 gets to select the first gift. The person who has #2, can either "steal" #1's gift, or pick another gift from the gift table. The process continues until the last person selects the last gift or steals one from a another person. While quite a bit of "stealing" goes on, it's all in fun and we have such a great time! My sister, Terry always puts out a great spread for the evening too.

Thanks again for everyone's continuing prayers for my dad. He seems to be doing well right now. He went back into the hospital earlier this month for a blood infection. He was in for almost a week, and they sent him home with a port or pic-line so that he could receive antibiotics as an outpatient. The infection seems to have cleared up and the port has been removed, although he said he still feels like he has a kidney stone. So, please keep the prayers coming, as we pray and stand on faith that the cancer does not return.

Here's a nice story that fits right in with the Christmas theme! Enjoy!

YOU REAP WHAT YOU SOW

"Good morning," said a woman as she walked up to the man sitting on ground. The man slowly looked up. This was a woman clearly accustomed to the finer things of life. Her coat was new. She looked like she had never missed a meal in her life. His first thought was that she wanted to make fun of him, like so many others had done before. "Leave me alone," he growled....To his amazement, the woman continued standing. She was smiling -- her even white teeth displayed in dazzling rows. "Are you hungry?" she asked."No," he answered sarcastically. "I've just come from dining with the president. Now go away.." The woman's smile became even broader..Suddenly the man felt a gentle hand under his arm. "What are you doing, lady?" the man asked angrily." I said to leave me alone. Just then a policeman came up.. "Is there any problem, ma'am?" he asked.. "No problem here, officer," the woman answered "I'm just trying to get this man to his feet.. Will you help me?" The officer scratched his head. "That's old Jack. He's been a fixture around here for a couple of years. What do you want with him?" "See that cafeteria over there?" she asked. "I'm going to get him something to eat and get him out of the cold for awhile." "Are you crazy, lady?" the homeless man resisted. "I don't want to go in there!" Then he felt strong hands grab his other arm and lift him up. "Let me go, officer. I didn't do anything." "This is a good deal for you, Jack," the officer answered. "Don't blow it." Finally, and with some difficulty, the woman and the police officer got Jack into the cafeteria and sat him at a table in a remote corner. It was the middle of the morning, so most of the breakfast crowd had already left and the lunch bunch had not yet arrived. The manager strode across the cafeteria and stood by his table. "What's going on here, officer?" he asked. "What is all this, is this man in trouble?" "This lady brought this man in here to be fed," the policeman answered. "Not in here!" the manager replied angrily. "Having a person like that here is bad for business." Old Jack smiled a toothless grin. "See, lady. I told you so. Now if you'll let me go. I didn't want to come here in the first place." The woman turned to the cafeteria manager and smiled. "Sir, are you familiar with Eddy and Associates, the banking firm down the street?" "Of course I am," the manager answered impatiently. "They hold their weekly meetings in one of my banquet rooms." "And do you make a goodly amount of money providing food at these weekly meetings?" "What business is that of yours?" I, sir, am Penelope Eddy, president and CEO of the company." "Oh." The woman smiled again. "I thought that might make a difference." She glanced at the cop who was busy stiffling a giggle. "Would you like to join us in a cup of coffee and a meal, officer?" "No thanks, ma'am," the officer replied. "I'm on duty." "Then, perhaps, a cup of coffee to go?" "Yes, ma'am. That would be very nice. "The cafeteria manager turned on his heel, "I'll get your coffee for you right away, officer." The officer watched him walk away. "You certainly put him in his place," he said. "That was not my intent. Believe it or not, I have a reason for all this." She sat down at the table across from her amazed dinner guest. She stared at him intently. "Jack, do you remember me?" Old Jack searched her face with his old, rheumy eyes. "I think so -- I mean you do look familiar." "I'm a little older perhaps," she said. "Maybe I've even filled out more than in my younger days when you worked here, and I came through that very door, cold and hungry." "Ma'am?" the officer said questioningly. He couldn't believe that such a magnificently turned out woman could ever have been hungry. "I was just out of college," the woman began. "I had come to the city looking for a job, but I couldn't find anything. Finally I was down to my last few cents and had been kicked out of my apartment. I walked the streets for days. It was February and I was cold and nearly starving. I saw this place and walked in on the off chance that I could get something to eat." Jack lit up with a smile. "Now I remember," he said. "I was behind the serving counter. You came up and asked me if you could work for something to eat. I said that it was against company policy." "I know," the woman continued. "Then you made me the biggest roast beef sandwich that I had ever seen, gave me a cup of coffee, and told me to go over to a corner table and enjoy it. I was afraid that you would get into trouble. Then, when I looked over and saw you put the price of my food in the cash register, I knew then that everything would be all right." "So you started your own business?" Old Jack said. "I got a job that very afternoon. I worked my way up. Eventually I started my own business that, with the help of God, prospered." She opened her purse and pulled out a business card. "When you are finished here, I want you to pay a visit to a Mr. Lyons. He's the personnel director of my company. I'll go talk to him now and I'm certain he'll find something for you to do around the office." She smiled. "I think he might even find the funds to give you a little advance so that you can buy some clothes and get a place to live until you get on your feet. If you ever need anything, my door is always opened to you."There were tears in the old man's eyes. "How can I ever thank you?" he said."Don't thank me," the woman answered. "To God goes the glory. Thank Jesus. He led me to you." Outside the cafeteria, the officer and the woman paused at the entrance before going their separate ways. "Thank you for all your help, officer," she said. "On the contrary, Ms. Eddy," he answered. "Thank you. I saw a miracle today, something that I will never forget. And..And thank you for the coffee."

Please keep the following people/entities in your prayers this week, as they are all fighting some type of battle:

Mary Carnes Napper
OSHP
Erin Hubbard
Joyce Petty
Roger
Terri & Jen

Quotes for the day:

"Failure is not a single, cataclysmic event. You don't fail overnight. Instead, failure is a few errors in judgement, repeated every day"

- Jim Rohn -

________________________________

"Character isn't something you were born with and can't change, like your fingerprints. It's something you weren't born with and must take responsibility for forming"

- Jim Rohn -

I pray that you all have a wonderful and blessed Christmas holiday and a great New Year!

Finally....Here's a video about personal accountability....enjoy!

Blessings....

Lisa - 1095

November 27, 2009 - "...Let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe..." Heb 12:28

2009-11-27T17:42:00.006-05:00

Top of the evening, friends!

I hope this blog entry finds you all well and refreshed after another great Thanksgiving!

I spent the holiday with my family at my sister's house in Trenton, and we all had a wonderful time eating and visiting. My sister, Terry always outdoes herself! It was my job to cut the turkey this year, and boy...did I ever BUTCHER it (literally)! I don't think I'll be asked to perform that duty again next year (lol)! It's normally dad's job, but he was late getting there.

Thanks to everyone who sent me Happy Thanksgiving notes, emails, and blogs! You all continue to keep me lifted up!

Unfortunately, Dad must have another surgery in January. He has developed another hernia as a result of the scar tissue from one of the last surgeries. His doctor doesn't believe it's going to be a big deal, in fact, plans for it to be an outpatient procedure. Please continue to keep him in your thoughts and prayers, as this is his 6th surgery over the last year.

The above pictures are of a day of zip-lining in Hocking Hills. The first picture is of me and my friends, Barb, Pandy, Terri, Jen, and Trish at Bob Evans. Unfortunately, Barb & Pandy couldn't join the zip-lining festivities, but they did eat breakfast with us before they left. The rest of us then spent about 3 hours zipping through the woods of Hocking Hills. The second and third pictures are proof of our adventure! If you haven't had the opportunity to do this, I would greatly encourage it. We had a lot of fun!

Our business (Stars Consulting, LLC) continues to increase, praise God!. A huge case we have been working on for some time was recently settled, I believe, in part, as a result of our very thorough, accurate, and detailed crash analysis that we provided the attorney. Steve does such a tremendous job with crash reconstruction! We have also received several more cases since then. We are very thankful for the referrals we receive from previous clients!

Quotes for the day:

"He is a wise man who does not grieve for the things which he has not, but rejoices for those which he has"
Epictetus

"The measure of a man is not, "How did he die?" but "How did he live?"
not "What did he gain?" but "What did he give?"
Unknown

Please keep the following people in your prayers, as they are fighting some type of battle:

Joyce Petty

Joyce Channel's daughter, Beth

David Huff

Baby Julia

Jim Slagle

Lex the Mali

Here are a couple of videos that I thought you might enjoy. The first is spiritual, the second was just too cute not to share!

http://media.causes.com/539096?p_id=96197493

http://link.brightcove.com/services/player/bcpid1610699488?bctid=31812464001

I will try to write again soon. But until next time, be safe and be blessed!

Lisa-1095

October 30, 2009 - "For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, & self discipline" II Tim 1:7

2009-10-30T10:13:00.008-04:00

Top of the morning, friends!

I hope this blog entry finds you all well.

I just wanted to share a few of photos with you--each of which have to do with Halloween.

The 2009 Beanie Weenie Ride at Capital City was a great success! We 30-40 riders that went on a 65-mile ride, then enjoyed some great fellowship and food. Thanks to Mary Hamilton & Company, we had some outstanding soup, sandwiches, and desserts! And to top off the day, Elzie DIDN'T get lost--which was a first!

Please keep the following people in your prayers, as they are all fighting some type of battle:

- Joyce Petty

- Ty Grimwood's sister, Tay

- Toni D.

- The Hartley's

- My dad & my stepmom Mary

Quotes for the Day:

"Yesterday is not ours to recover, but tomorrow is ours to win or to lose."

-Lyndon B. Johnson-

______________________________

"The fishermen know that the sea is dangerous and the storm terrible, but they have never found these dangers sufficient reasons for remaining ashore."

-Vincent Van Gogh-

Until next time, be blessed!

Lisa - 1095

October 23, 2009 - "I will give you rain in due season..." Lev 26:4

2009-10-23T15:37:00.004-04:00

Top of the afternoon, friends...

I hope this blog entry finds you all well!

I've been very busy since my last posting. The STARS business is going well. In fact, we received a couple new jobs in SE Ohio. God continues to be so good!

I have been putting the final touches on an online class I have developed for OU. I also just found out I'll be teaching another course in January...which is VERY cool!

My motorcycle club, Capital City is having it's last ride of the season this Sunday--the "Beanie Weenie" ride. Its a wonderful time of fellowship and food with some really nice people. If anyone is interested, let me know and I'll send you the information. We sure would like to have a terrific turnout for our final ride! Everyone is welcome.

I've also been helping the Ohio Women's Law Enforcement Network (OWLEN) plan a one-day conference in January, 2010. If anyone--male or female--is interested in some excellent and free training, let me know and I'll send you the details. S/Lt. Sue Rance-Lock, of the OSP, is an excellent instructor and has been gracious to volunteer to teach a class entitled, "Are you ready to lead law enforcement into the future?" We are also hoping that our new director can come and speak as the keynote speaker when we open the course.

My family and friends are looking forward to coming over for the annual cul-de-sac bonfire on Halloween night. My sister, Terry is making her famous chili spaghetti and we'll be terrorizing...uh, I mean passing out candy to the youth of my neighborhood! A good time should be had by all!

My friend Trish and I hiked 6 miles this week at Deer Creek State Park. We encountered 2 snakes--both of which looked alike. I have no idea what kind it is, but the picture above is of one of them. Can anyone identify the type of snake? How close did we come to dying? Let me know!

Please keep the following people and organizations in your prayers, as they are fighting some type of battle these days:

-Joyce Petty (cancer)

-Jake Valerio (H1N1)

-Kobi Salyers (H1N1)

-Mariah Salyers (bronchitis)

-John Rowland (H1N1)

-Dave Huff (recent surgery)

-OSP (search for superintendent)

-Lex the mali dog (tumors)

Congratulations to:

-Scott and Tami Rike, who are expecting twins!

and

-Carla Garnes, on her retirement!

Quotes for the Day:

"Never fear the shadows. They simply mean there's a light somewhere nearby."

- Ruth Renkee -

----------------------------------------

"Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man's character, give him power."

- Abraham Lincoln -

This video was sent to me by my buddy, Terri West. It is the epitome of love, compassion, and empathy. I hope it touches you like it did me.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oIrDbzoOxZc

Until next time, be blessed!

Lisa - 1095

september 21, 2009 - "happiness comes to those who are fair to others and are always just & good" psalms 106

2009-09-21T12:49:00.006-04:00

What's your excuse??

top of the afternoon, friends!

i hope this blog entry finds you all well.

things continue to go well for me and my family. dad seems to get stronger each day and his nausea seems to be slowly diminishing. thanks for your continued thoughts and prayers for him. God continues to be so good to us!

praise report--i visited my orthopedic surgeon last week and he said that i don't need to ever see him again unless i have other issues with my leg!

i did, however, have to visit my orthopedic doctor this week on an unrelated issue. he injected my right (uninjured) foot with two shots. i have two mortons neuromas (inflammed nerves) that he's attempting to treat. the condition makes it difficult to walk without pain. unfortunately, the doctor inadvertently ran a needle completely through my foot today, so i'm a bit sore. hopefully, this will provide some relief. i've battled this issue for about 10-15 years. as you can guess, i don't want to have another surgery, so please pray that this works.

second praise report--i recently found two lumps in my left breast. having just had a mammogram about six months ago, i wasn't overly concerned. but, i went and had an ultrasound this week and the doctors do not believe it is anything to be worried about, but we will continue to monitor it.

third praise report--i hiked lake hargus again this month--the second time since my crash. it is a pretty long & arduous hike. the cool thing is that i cut my time down significantly from my last attempt! i am getting better with every passing day!

fourth praise report--our motorcycle club--capital city motorcycle club recently sponsored a charity ride for "kids & kamp," a camp that benefits kids with cancer. this month, the club and riders raised about $2,000 for this wonderful charity!

please keep the following people in your prayers, as they are facing some type of battle:

wayne (motorcycle crash)

joyce petty (cancer)

toni daniels (relationship issue)

terry & mike salyers (jobs)

dave huff (heart surgery)

congratulations to the following people on their recent retirements. may God bless you in future endeavors:

colonel collins

s/lt. allard

captain tina phillips

quotes for the day:

"the great pleasure in life is doing what people say you cannot do"

- walter bagehot -

---------------------------------------------------------

"finish each day and be done with it. you have done what you could; some blunders and absurdities have crept in; forget them a soon as you can. tomorrow is a new day; you shall begin it serenely and with too high a spirit to be encumbered with your old nonsense"

- ralph waldo emerson -

the first above picture is at an amish furniture store in lancaster. my friends thought that this dining room table & chairs were just my size. they think they are pretty funny. not so much.

i received the second above picture through an email this month and felt compelled to share it with you. when i start to feel down about some of the "bumps in the road" that have happened over the last couple of years, i simply need to be reminded of this little guy. he really put things into perspective for me!

until next time, be blessed!

lisa - 1095

august 29, 2009 - "my instruction is far more valuable than silver or gold" prov 8:11

2009-08-29T18:05:00.006-04:00

top of the evening, friends!

unfortunately, it's been a while since i've posted anything. for some reason, i was locked out of the site and had to have one of my "techie" friends help me get back in.

hope all is going well in your world. things are great here. dad had a bowel blockage about a month ago and had to have another surgery. praise God, however, he's doing well. his doctors can't believe how much energy he has!

a friend and i just returned from a 12-day, 12-state, 3,000 mile motorcycle trip. we travelled up the east coast and through the new england states. we rode through 4 mountain ranges (white mountains, green mountains, adirondak mountains, and the allegheny mountains). although i probably got way too much sun, it was a wonderful trip that i will always fondly remember. the seafood was also unbelievable! i actually saw lobster as cheap as $1.25 a pound! the wild blueberries are to die for as well! the pictures above are from the trip. the top picture is of me after i ran out of gas 3 miles from home! this, of course was after i drove 3,000 miles! my buddy elzie bailed me out. he and trish thought it was extremely funny. unfortunately, now everyone in franklin county knows about it (lol!) in my defense, however, my gas gauge quit working on the trip--at least that's my story! thanks to the circleville trooper who also came to my rescue! the second picture is kayaking on beautiful lake wilson in new hampshire, and the third is on top of cadillac mountain in acadia national park.

i recently completed a 5-mile hike around lake hargus this month! it took me about 3 hours, but i hadn't done that walk since before my crash....so it was such a victory! the dogs greatly enjoyed it too!

our business (stars consulting, llc) continues to increase--in fact we just received another case in eastern ohio this week. we'll be mapping it out soon. my online class starts in september, so i'm just about ready to resume teaching. this is my first of this type, so i'm both excited and a little apprehensive. i've worked very hard on it, so i hope it goes smoothly.

please keep the following people/entities in your prayers as they are going through some tough times:

OSHP

ODPS

joyce p.

jenny t.

toni d.

terri s.

mike s.

jerry p.

terri's m.'s dad

quotes for the day:

"people who consider themselves victims of their circumstances will always remain victims unless they develop a greater vision for themselves"

- stedman graham -

--------------------------------------------------

"opportunities are like sunrises--if you wait too long, you miss them"

- william arthur ward -

hopefully, next month i will be able to write in a more timely manner.

until next time....be blessed!

lisa - 1095

july 6, 2009 - "by His stripes, we are healed"

2009-07-06T08:24:00.007-04:00

top of the morning, friends....

i hope this blog entry finds you all well.

things are going well here. i've been very busy with yardwork, therapy, and the business. of course, motorcycle riding continues to be a significant theme this summer ;). my "farmers tan" is evidence of that!

well, once again, prayers have been answered in the taylor household! my dad went in for a bone scan last week, and it came back clean--praise God! there was, however, a small spot on his lung they are checking out, but it's been there a while and hasn't changed, so the doctors don't seem to be overly concerned. it's been exactly a year since his last ordeal, so we are very pleased that his report was good. thanks to everyone for their thoughts, prayers, and phone calls. we appreciate you guys more than you can know!

for the first time in 2 years, i was able to participate in the 2009 special olympics torch run with the patrol. while most either ran or biked, i, of course, walked! terri mikesh, tony & laney bradshaw, suzie roark and i walked 3 miles from the OSP academy to the OSU stadium to cheer on the olympians. even though i was slow, they were extremely patient with me and we had a great time! the picture above is at the end of the walk. i was talking to my buddy steve morgan at the end of our journey.

the other picture is of a recent campfire in my cul-de-sac. every now and then, my neighbors and i get together to enjoy a fire and each others company. i even tried out a new pie iron i had just bought in amish country. we had everything from cheese, peanut butter, marshmallow, and raspberry pies. once i got the technique down, they weren't too bad!

for the motorcycle enthusiasts among you, there will be a 2-day ride at capital city motorcycle club this month. on saturday, july 18 & sunday, july 19, there will be rides, food, and music at the club. all are welcome for a day of fun and fellowship with some really great people. email me or post a note on the blog if you're interested in more information.

quotes for the day:

"only i can change my life. no one can do it for me."
- carol burnett -

-----------------------

"don't look to become a person of success, look instead to become a person of value.
- albert einstein -

please keep the following people in your prayers, as they are all fighting some type of battle:

diane raubenolt

joyce petty

toni daniels

congratulations to the following people on their OSP retirements. i wish them the best in future endeavors:

mark atkeson

lance mathess

cindy drake

terry ernst

here's a very inspirational video compliments of chris laner:

http://www.thegolfchannel.com/golf-videos/meet-butch-lumpkin-9477/?ref=26000

until next time, be blessed!

lisa - 1095

June 11, 2009 "suffering produces endurance, endurance produces character, character produces hope" romans 5:3-4 NRSV

2009-06-11T11:47:00.009-04:00

top of the afternoon, friends!

i hope this blog entry finds you all well!

just an update on what's going on in my world.....

the first above picture is of me, trish, some unknown crazy guy, terri, and jen in put-in-bay. we have no idea who this guy is, but he wanted his picture taken with us. we rode about 300 miles last sunday to the island. jen just had to try out her brand new harley road king! we visited all the sites as well as the winery. i'll just say this....what happens in put-in-bay....stays in put-in-bay! lol

the second picture is my first experience in eating crawfish while traveling through louisiana. while they were okay, i'm not in a rush to eat them again. they are a lot of work to eat!!! the locals call them "mud bugs!" sounds appetizing, doesn't it???

the third is a better picture of my the new bike i picked up last month in san antonio, texas. although it's much newer and had a lot less miles, it's certainly not as comfortable as the road king i currently ride. dad, however, loves it and has already put it in a bike show. he won second prize! i've ordered a chrome pig for the front fender for him for father's day.

things are going good here, although it's been a costly month! i had to replace my central air unit, as it died during the hottest week of the year so far. then, my bathroom sink started leaking, so i had to replace it. unfortunately, it's a double sink, and i couldn't match it, so i had to replace both! then, as i was traveling to my chiropractor yesterday, a truck threw up a rock and broke my windshield! it's being replaced today. it's always something! (lol) although it sounds bad, i don't have to look far to find others with MUCH worse problems! praise God that everyone in my family is healthy and well!

the business (Stars Consulting, LLC - http://www.starsconsultingllc.com/) is continuing to do well. we do a tremendous amount of advertising on the internet. we hope that will eventually pay off.

several of my former grad student friends and i met for dinner recently. di, viv, marla, tonya and i met at the rice bowl and caught up. i also had coffee with another former classmate, mark. although he and i have GREATLY differing political views, it's always fun to taunt one another with our opinions....lol

i've been asked to speak at girl's state again this year. i'm so honored that they've asked me to come up again. that was definitely one of my favorite programs to work as a state trooper. i plan to speak on the importance of being prepared for anything, attitude, and the problem of impaired drivers on our highways.

congratulations to the following people on their upcoming or recent retirements. i wish them the very best in their retirement and in future endeavors!

- stephanie atchison

- lance mathess

- mark atkeson

happy birthday to my friend terri west! she never failed to keep me lifted up after my crash!

thanks to wendy forbes too....i don't think there's been a week go by that i haven't received an uplifting card or note from her!

please keep the following people in your prayers, as they are all suffering a loss or fighting some type of health battle:

- joyce petty

- barb moore's mom

- my cousin boo

- jon haney

quote for the day

(compliments of barb moore)

"be the kind of woman that when your feet hit the floor each morning the devil says "oh crap, she's up!"

until next time....be blessed!

lisa - 1095

may 14, 2009 - "though sins fill our hearts, you forgive them all..." psalm 65:3

2009-05-14T09:47:00.003-04:00

top of the morning, friends!

i hope this blog entry finds you all well! i am doing well and healing more each day.

this past month has been pretty eventful. i flew to san antonio texas and bought a trike for my dad and me to ride. it is a beautiful 2006 HD softail heritage with a motortrike conversion kit. he absolutely loves it! after riding it 1400 miles back, however, i was never so glad to see the ohio state line! the seat is not near as comfortable as the one i normally ride. the picture above is the new trike.

i also attended the police memorial last friday. although it's a sobering event, i did have an opportunity to talk with old friends. it was great to see lynda & gary b., whom i haven't seen in almost 25 years!

i also had the privilege of participating in a special olympics event with my church motorcycle group on saturday...that was a lot of fun! the kids sat on our motorcycles and put on our gear for photos.

the business continues to blossom...in fact, we participated in a ohio trucking association trade show this week and made a tremendous amount of great contacts. i also was able to visit with some old OSP friends who were in the booth right next to ours.

i have 3 more weeks to teach before i take the summer off....i will resume teaching again in the fall. i look forward to the break, but have enjoyed the opportunity immensely!

please keep my friend joyce petty in your thoughts and prayers as she is getting treatment for pancreatic cancer. praise God she received some good news last monday!

congratulations to skip dodd and bubba brooks on their retirements--best of luck on future endeavors!

also congratulations to chad neal on his upcoming promotion!

happy birthday to my brother allen! my siblings and i are all relieved he's finally in his 40's!

quote for the day....

"no one would allow garbage at his table, but many allow it served into their minds"

-fulton john sheen-

keep in mind that even though the economy is less than desireable, God is still in control....

until next time,

lisa - 1095

april 13, 2009 - "create in me a new, clean heart, O God" psalms 51:10

2009-04-13T09:30:00.004-04:00

top of the morning, friends!

i hope this blog entry finds you all well. it's been a while since i've written, as i don't have a lot of news...but here goes.

well, i finally sold my beloved harley softail deluxe! but, it went to a good home! my friend terri m. bought it and loves it as much as i did! the picture above is her "maiden voyage." we rode about 100 miles on saturday and almost froze to death! by the time we were done, i couldn't feel my hands...but it was a lot of fun!

i still have my black/gray kawasaki drifter 800 for sale too. if you are interested, please either call me or write a note on the blog. i'll make you a deal....

i visited my orthopedic doctor last month and he was pleased with my progess. in fact, he didn't even x-ray me this time. i don't have to see him again for another 6 months. i'm still working out almost daily and am up to 5+ miles a day on the eliptical. i also walk the dogs as well. i'm working on minimizing my limp as much as possible--and making progress! currently, i have about a 91-92 degree bend on my left leg.

the business and teaching are going well...i'm busier than ever! we even bought some new reconstruction software for the business to make our jobs a little easier.

dad continues to improve too. in fact, he's itching to ride motorcycle again, so i'm continuing my search for another trike. i guess you can't keep a good man down!

i would love it if you could keep the following people in your prayers, as they are fighting some significant battles:

- pastor randy wallace (cancer)

- joyce petty (cancer)

- my mail lady gail costa (cancer)

- kelly salyers (possible glaucoma)

alan and wendy f. came over last week for "movie night." alan picked the movie ("Bolt") and i provided the pizza. the movie was great, but company was even better! we had a nice time catching up. alan continues to deny that he cheats on board games, however.

quote for the day:

"i can't change the direction of the wind, but i can adjust my sails to always reach my destination"

- jimmy dean -

until next time, be blessed....

lisa - 1095

february 21, 2009 - "in everything you do, put God first, and he will direct you..." proverbs 3:6

2009-02-21T10:08:00.007-05:00

top of the morning, friends....

i hope things are well for you and your families--and i really hope things are better for you than for this poor cat! there really is no reason for the picture other than it made me smile. as you have probably noticed, my time between blog entries continues to increase. i've been very busy with my continuing rehab, teaching, and my new business venture. two of my friends and i have formed a traffic crash reconstruction consulting firm (Stars Consulting, LLC). check out our website at: http://www.starsconsultingllc.com/ if you ever need this type of service, please give us a call. while we handle ALL traffic crash reconstruction, we specialize in large, commercial vehicle type crashes. the above picture is of a recent "vehicle autopsy" we conducted. for those motorcycle enthusiasts who might be thinking of buying a motorcycle this spring, i have two for sale. while it breaks my heart to sell these bikes, i need to get another trike for my dad before spring. he is doing well, but it would give me great peace of mind to have him on three wheels, rather than two. pictures of the bikes are above and the info on the bikes is as follows:

2005 Harley Davidson Softail Deluxe
Blue/White
Windshield
Running Lights (with visors)
Running Boards
Chrome Pig on Front Fender
Windshield Bag
Tank Bra
Custom Pipes
Quick Release Sissy Bar
Luggage Rack
Lowering Kit Installed
Tool Bag
"Live to Ride" Gas Cap Cover
Custom Deluxe Hard Leather Saddle Bags
Crash Bars
Approx. 10K miles
Have over $20K invested
Will take $15K
-----------------------------------------------------
2004 Kawasaki Vulcan Drifter 800
Black/Silver
Indian Light on Front Fender
Studded Fender Mud Flaps
Custom Luggage Rack
Windshield
Running Lights
Running Boards
Crash Bars
Windshield Bag
Tank Bra
2 in 1 Exhaust
Studded Solo Seat
Approx. 6K miles
Have over 9K invested
Will take $7K

these bikes are immaculate and have been serviced as required, babied, and garaged every day. give me a call or leave me a note on the blog if you're interested. please remember the following people/entities in prayer this week, as their all fighting some type of battle:

- becky costas

- my dad

- cindy kollin

- ed & prudy white

- mrs. salyers

- tom taylor

- our nation's & state's leadership

- our economy

- our troops

quote for the day:

"the strongest single factor in prosperity consciousness is self-esteem: believing you can do it, believing you deserve it, believing you will get it"

- Jerry Gillies -

until next time....be blessed

lisa - 1095

january 13, 2009 - "i can do everything through Him who gives me strength" (phil 4:13)

2009-01-13T12:32:00.007-05:00

top of the afternoon, friends!

i hope this blog entry finds you well in this new year!

i'm walking more and more without assistance, praise God! i went into my old therapy place to have them measure my range of motion last week. i'm very pleased to report that since september, i have 10 degrees more flexibility on my left knee! i'm actually up to 90 degrees now.

my new class has been both educational and fun for me. i hope my students feel the same. they have proven to be quite an animated and interactive group!

Christmas was very nice. i had the opportunity to spend some time with dad and the rest of the taylor clan at terry's house. as always, she ensured we were well-fed. the "yankee Christmas" gift exchange was exceptionally entertaining this year!

di and i finally "walked" through our graduation on january 4th. it has been a long time coming! i appreciate her friendship and glad she did the program with me. it was quite an educational journey. carl was MIA!!! has anyone even seen him??!!

dad continues to improve daily. he has finally stopped losing weight and has regained a lot of his appetite. thanks again for the prayers for healing--they have been so helpful!

please keep the following people in your thoughts and prayers, as they are all fighting some type of battle today:

- essie w.

- my former boss del e.

- becky c.

- cindy c.

- ty g.

quotes for the day:

"much effort, much prosperity"

- euripides -

_________________________

"change the changeable, accept the unchangeable, and remove yourself from the unacceptable"

- denis waitley -

__________________________

"a true friend knows your weaknesses but shows you your strengths; feels your fears but fortifies your faith; sees your anxieties but frees your spirit; recognizes your disabilities but emphasizes your possibilities"

- william arthur ward -

i received the following very touching video clip about true friendship from my cousin boo. i thought you might enjoy it too.

http://www.elephants.com/media/CBS_News_1_2_09.htm

until next time, be blessed!

lisa - 1095

December 17, 2008 - "and the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness…” (romans 8:26 NLT)

2008-12-17T09:58:00.005-05:00

top of the morning, friends....

i hope this blog entry finds you all well and ready for the Christmas season! i know i'm not even close to being ready, but i'm not going to stress about it. the above picture helped remind me to look forward to the road ahead. it also makes me look so forward to motorcycle season again! my buddy elzie and i plan to ride on january 1--as we always do--providing the weather isn't awful. we had another "wing night for wing nuts" last week. dave, elzie, di, christy, kelly, trish and cheryl showed up. we were all captivated by dave's ladder modification/invention idea. in reality, we think he is simply too cheap to buy scaffolding to fix his ceiling fan (lol). we also had ladies night out last week. a bunch of ladies from jackson and columbus (terri m, jen, allison, nancy, terri b, trish, and i) went to dinner and the columbus zoo to see the lights. we walked for about 3 hours and had a great time! things are going well here. i continue to walk quite a bit without a cane, but do use them if i plan to be on my feet a lot. the limp tends to throw my lower back off, so i'm trying to be cautious. i am also about ready to publish a book. the premise of the book is how God worked behind the scenes to prepare me for the crash. He prepared everything from my family, to my friends, and my finances so that all would work out for the best. i'll share more with you on that later, once i decide on a publisher, etc... it will be entitled "was it irony...or was it God?" dad is doing well, however, he has stopped his chemotherapy. it was making him very nauseous all the time and he continued to lose weight. he and the doctors felt that there's a significant chance the cancer won't come back even if he doesn't continue the chemo. dad said that at the age of 75, he's willing to take his chances.

congratulations to lynn schucker on her upcoming wedding!

prayer requests for healing:

retired capt. wendell webb

connie everett (retired captain del everett's wife)

barb moore's mom

quotes for the day:

believe while others

by william arthur ward

believe while others are doubting.
plan while others are playing.
study while others are sleeping.
decide while others are delaying.
prepare while others are daydreaming.
begin while others are procrastinating.
work while others are wishing.
save while others are wasting.
listen while others are talking.
smile while others are frowning.
commend while others are criticizing.
persist while others are quitting.

_____________________________________

Christmas gift suggestions:
to your enemy, forgiveness.
to an opponent, tolerance.
to a friend, your heart.
to a customer, service.
to all, charity.
to every child, a good example.
to yourself, respect.

-oren arnold-

i pray you all have a wonderful Christmas and a very happy new year! i will leave you with the following video clip that cindy kollin sent me. i found it to be very motivational!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MslbhDZoniY

blessings,

lisa - 1095

November 26, 2008 - I know all the things you do, and I have opened a door for you that no one can close (revelation 3:8, NLT)

2008-11-26T08:54:00.006-05:00

top of the morning, friends!

i hope this blog entry finds you well and preparing for a wonderful thanksgiving with family and/or friends!

things are good here, as i can walk further and further without the use of a cane. in fact, the only time use it now is if i am walking a very long distance or if the terrain is uneven. i suspect that soon i won't even need it then.

the first picture above is of me and another biker i met on deal's gap, tennessee---just before we tackled the "dragon." the second picture is of a turtle i rescued on the outter banks, and the third picture was taken after my first night in london, kentucky---preparing for the day's ride. all three pictures were taken during my recent 3,200 motorcycle trip---what an experience!

dad is improving daily. he started chemo about 2 weeks ago. while it does make him a bit tired, he hasn't gotten any sicker or lost any hair as a result of the medicine. thank you for all your continued thoughts and prayers. he must be getting better, as he sent me a page from a magazine that had a nice motorcycle bracelet advertised. attached to it was a post it note that said, "hint, hint, hint!." so....i ordered it for dad. i hope he really likes it.

i have attended two MADD events over the last couple of weeks and hope to do some type of volunteering with them soon. i do feel that i can offer a unique perspective as a law enforcement officer who has removed impaired drivers from the road and from that of victim.

i am also going to start as an adjunct professor with ohio university soon. i am very excited about the position and look so forward to it and other potential opportunities.

prayer requests:

scott rike's family after the loss of their father

barb moore's mom after recent surgery

praise reports:

my niece erin had recent medical tests and they came back positive

quotes for the day:

"blessed are those that can give without remembering and receive without forgetting"

- author unknown -

_______________________________________

"you were born to win, but to be a winner you must plan to win,
prepare to win, and expect to win"

- zig ziglar -

until next time....remember that the only things we really control in life is our attitudes and our effort.

be blessed!

lisa - 1095

october 30, 2008 - “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness” (II corinthians 12:9)

2008-10-30T09:37:00.016-04:00

top of the morning, friends.....

i hope this blog entry finds you all well.

things are going well here. dad is improving daily and gaining strength. he is, however, continuing to lose weight. he has lost nearly 40 lbs, so we're monitoring that closely. he is back to walking his dog and fishing occasionally--so those are good signs. thanks again for all the thoughts and prayers during his recovery.

the first picture is of my buddy alan forbes and me on a recent trip to deer creek. later that week, he and his mom came over for a pizza and movie night. we watched "nim's island." i actually stayed awake too!

the second picture here is of my friend kathy and me in helen, georgia during my recent vacation. i stopped to see her at her retirement home and we enjoyed a day of riding together. she is a fellow law enforcement officer that a met at a conference a few years back.

the recent "2008 motorcycles and murals" tour was a great success! we had between 15-20 people this year. the murals, foliage, fellowship, and ribs were outstanding! thanks to all those who attended. although the ride was chilly starting out, it gets bigger and better every year! i will have a few pictures to post in future blog entries. elzie somehow managed to get through the event without getting lost or arrested!

i have a several praise reports:

i've added the eliptical to my training workout. i'm up to about 2 miles at a time, in addition to my daily walking routine. i still use a cane most of the time, as my limp still adversely affects my lower back.

i've contacted MADD to search for potential volunteer opportunities. i would like to contribute and make a positive impact from the perspectives of both a victim and as a retired law enforcement officer who has arrested impaired drivers.

congratulations on dianna's transfer to finance & logistics! she will be great in her new position! best of luck!

congratulations to christy c. for graduating from her military school in texas this month. she's now off to west virginia for additional training before her return home. she's been missed!

now that school and therapy are finished, i'm finally mobile and back in the hunt for my next career!

please keep the following people in your prayers, as they have had loved ones pass or are experiencing illness of some sort:

scott rike's family
barb hauser's family
barb moore's mom
glenda woodgeard
erin hubbard (upcoming tests)

quotes for the day:

"belief always precedes action"

- james allen -

"do not allow other people's limited perceptions to define us"
- virginia satir -

story for the day:

when your hut's on fire

the only survivor of a shipwreck was washed up on a small, uninhabited island. he prayed feverishly for God to rescue him. every day he scanned the horizon for help, but none seemed forthcoming. exhausted, he eventually managed to build a little hut out of driftwood to protect him from the elements, and to store his few possessions. one day, after scavenging for food, he arrived home to find his little hut in flames, with smoke rolling up to the sky. he felt the worst had happened, and everything was lost. he was stunned with disbelief, grief, and anger. he cried out, "God! how could you do this to me?" early the next day, he was awakened by the sound of a ship approaching the island! it had come to rescue him! "how did you know i was here?" asked the weary man of his rescuers. "we saw your smoke signal," they replied.

the moral of this story:

it's easy to get discouraged when things are going bad, but we shouldn't lose heart, because God is at work in our lives, even in the midst of our pain and suffering. remember that the next time your little hut seems to be burning to the ground. it just may be a smoke signal that summons the Grace of God.

until next time....be blessed!

lisa - 1095

October 20, 2008 - “then He arose and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “peace, be still!” (mark 4:39 NKJ)

2008-10-20T09:03:00.014-04:00

top of the morning, friends....

i hope this blog entry finds you all protected, prosperous, and with plenty of provision!

dad had to go back into the hospital wednesday due to blood clots in both legs. they were able to put in two screens to prevent them from moving to his heart, lungs, or brain. apparently this procedure is effective 96% of the time. he was released saturday and appears to be doing well. please keep him in your prayers.

please continue to keep the following people in your prayers as well:

scott rike (his father is ill and his dog recently passed)

barb moores mom (stroke)

barb hauser (health issues)

i recently returned from a 12 day, 10 state, 3,000 mile motorcycle trip--on the trike, of course. it was to celebrate my graduation from school and therapy. the weather was absolutely beautiful and i was able to see many wonderful sights. the picture above is from a ferry on the outer banks of NC.

i received this article this week. it was so good, i wanted to share it. we don't have to look far to find someone with more difficulties than us.

CROSSWALK
By Amy Sandlin
As I slowly pulled myself into work this morning, I was overwhelmed with exhaustion; with full speed stress headed my way. Anticipating the "mind over matter" feeling I needed, my eyes not wanting to open my "inbox" to start the day, I remembered the crosswalk. I was on my way to work a couple weeks ago, frustrated at how late traffic was making me, annoyed at my bad hair day. It was already scorching hot, humid and NO wind. I just wanted to stay in bed and sleep. While being frustrated and annoyed and just plain angry at the day, I was held at a stop light for what seemed like forever. I glanced over to my left and saw a woman probably in her mid twenties, waiting for the crosswalk sign to allow her to cross. She was dressed in bright colors, gorgeous shoes, with a purse at her side and a glowing smile! Along with these striking things, she also had her dog along for the stroll. A joyful golden retriever, hopping along on the leash, excited for the day and to be outside with his owner. He just couldn't sit still with how much energy he had. So the woman petted him with her hand, and was talking to him with so much expression, and love - they were so happy! It made me smile underneath my gloomy bad mood. One detail not mentioned; the woman dressed in bright colors, gorgeous shoes, purse and a glowing smile, with her pal at her side was handicap, in an electric wheel chair, which she could only operate with her right hand. As the crosswalk sign changed, and she pushed the black knob forward to operate her wheelchair across the street, her dog followed happily beside her as the leash was tied to the arm of her chair.
A tear filled my eye, and I smiled! Someone else's situation can kick your mind into gear and remind us what to be thankful for! I have no doubt this woman and her dog were put there for a reason, so I would wake up, and enjoy my day no matter what my hair looked like, no matter what traffic I was stuck in, and no matter what my day had in store for me! I greatly appreciate this woman and her golden retriever, for teaching me a wonderful lesson! Pay attention to the smallest moments, they will teach the most!

quotes for the day:

"there is no such thing as can't, only won't. if you're qualified, all it takes is a burning desire to accomplish, to make a change. go forward, go backward. whatever it takes! but you can't blame other people or society in general. it all comes from your mind. when we do the impossible we realize we are special people"
-jan ashford-

_________________________________

"you can't help someone get up a hill without getting closer to the top yourself"
-h. norman schwarzkopf-

tina hursey - good hearing from you. it has been way too long! please leave your email on the blog and i will get in touch with you!

colonel & brenda collins - thanks for your continued words of encouragement. i always look forward to hearing from you guys and getting updates on cory. i pray he continues to improve.

until next time, be blessed....

lisa - 1095

september 27, 2008 - “your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (psalm 119:105)

2008-09-27T11:49:00.004-04:00

top of the afternoon, friends....

i hope this entry finds you all well. i think fall is upon us today!

the picture above is terri's and jen's new "additions." they still have 3 available for adoption to good homes if anyone is interested.....

dad is not only home, but he is completely free of any ports, IV's, or tubes! God is so good! his wife mary is now with him and they are both improving daily. thanks again for all your prayers--they definitely worked.

i have several praise reports:

- di and i finished our MBAs last tuesday! we're onto our next challenges!

- i finished my 2nd 5K a week ago friday. i did the "night moves" 5K through german village.

- formal therapy ended the same day we finished our MBA's too!

-the elusive bat that had been living in my house has finally been captured and released...in can

finally sleep again!

quote for the day:

"you are today where your thoughts have brought you;  
you will be tomorrow where your thoughts take you"

-james allen-

please continue to pray for:

the election process

OSP leadership

barb moore's mom

joyce channel

jon haney's family

the unsaved, sick, lonely, hurting, hungry,and depressed as well as those suffering the effects from the recent hurricane

until next time....be blessed!

lisa - 1095

september 17, 2008 - "i am the good shepard, i lay down my life for my sheep" (john 10:11)

2008-09-17T09:16:00.004-04:00

top of the morning, friends...

i pray this blog entry finds you all well. its been a while since i've been on the blog site.

the above picture is me "taking aim" with my cane while out on a ride on the trike.....

things have been hectic here with everything going on, but i do have several praise reports:

we believe dad will be released from the nursing home today!

di and i only have one more week to complete our MBA's!

because i already do pretty extensive therapy on my own, my ortho doctor is allowing me to finish formal therapy the same day i finish school!

my family survived the hurricane with minimal damage and we all now have power and water!

i walked 2 miles one day last week with no cane!

quotes for the day:

"there are two primary choices in life:
to accept conditions as they exist,
or accept the responsibility for changing them"

-denis waitley-

______________________________________________________

"formulate and stamp indelibly on your mind a mental picture of yourself as succeeding. Hold this picture tenaciously and never permit it to fade. your mind will seek to develop this picture"

-dr. norman vincent peale-

please keep the following people/things in your prayers this week:

OSP leadership

the upcoming election

earl smith's wife

the larry meredith family

joyce channel

barb moore's mom

congratulations is in order for s/lt. kim campbell who retired from the patrol recently!

a special thanks to my family and friends who have kept me upbeat and motivated over the last year! you guys have been wonderful (and good shepards)!

until next time, be blessed...

lisa - 1095

september 5, 2008 - “as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways..." (isaiah 55:9)

2008-09-05T11:43:00.003-04:00

top of the morning, friends....

i hope this blog entry finds you all well. thanks so much for your continued thoughts and prayers for my dad. he was released to a nursing home last friday and is getting some much needed therapy before he can return home. his spirits are good and he's walking some without a walker. he feels he is getting stronger each day and is eager to return home to mary and his beloved dog "tiki." attached is a picture of him and his two favorite nurses - rose and toni. they were absolutely wonderful to him during his 31 day stay at the hospital.

we are only 3 weeks away from our MBA's now...time is getting short...but what a journey! we plan to finish up on sept. 23...that's the same day i plan to finish therapy--if my ortho dr. will allow it. i'm anxious to get on with another career!

i have a praise report....i walked 3/4 mile one day last week without a cane! it probably wasn't very pretty, and i know it wasn't very smooth, but every day gets a little better!

quotes for the day:

"act as if what you do makes a difference. it does."
- william james -

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

"people who consider themselves victims of their circumstances,
will always remain victims unless they develop a greater vision for their lives."
- stedman graham -

please keep the following people in your prayers as well, as they are all fighting some kind of battle:

barb moore's mom

joyce channel

mary taylor

OSP leadership

until next time...be blessed!

lisa - 1095

august 22, 2008 - carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ (galatians 6:2 NIV)

2008-08-21T10:26:00.003-04:00

top of the morning, friends....

thank you so much for the thoughts and prayers for my dad. he is entering his 22nd day of his stay at the hospital. considering he underwent 2 major surgeries in 5 days, he is doing remarkably well physically. he is, however, struggling a bit mentally. he is terrified that something else will go wrong. his vitals are improving and various tubes are coming out almost daily. they have moved him to a step down unit--but still in ICU. he is so afraid of eating again, as that's when the last problem occurred. the dr's are taking it very slow, continuing to feed him via stomach tube. while he is still on mega doses of antibiotics, he continues to improve daily. he is very anxious to get home to his wife and his beloved dog, tiki.

i am sorry i haven't updated this earlier, but we wanted to make sure he was out of the woods. he appears to have "turned the corner" now and we're very optimistic for a full recovery.

on another positive note...5 more weeks to complete the MBA....then onto the next career search!

the picture above is the new 2009 harley "triglide." although i love the trike i'm riding....a girl can dream, can't she?

quotes for the day...

"believe in yourself and there will come a day when others will have no choice but to believe with you"
- cynthia kersey -

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"failure is the opportunity to begin again, more intelligently"
- henry ford -

kaila mcgarvey - good luck and have fun in your first year at loyola!

joyce channel - God bless you as you recover from leg surgery.

the ernestine abrams family - my prayers are with you after the loss of you mother. she was a great friend to me!

happy belated birthday to my friend, christy clark!

until next time...be blessed!

lisa - 1095

August 9, 2008 - "I will trust and not be afraid" (Isaiah 12:2)

2008-08-09T11:28:00.003-04:00

top of the morning, friends....

thanks so much for all the thoughts and prayers for my dad. we've had quite a week. after dad's second major surgery within a week, he has battled infection, an irregular heartbeat, blood pressure issues, diabetes, and pnemonia.

but, on a positive note, while he still has a tube from his stomach up through his nose, as well as a cath, he is off the ventilator and there are signs that his stomach is starting to "wake up." he is still extremely tired and thirsty. the only thing he's had by mouth is a few ice chips. he is wanting to eat and drink, but due to the last episode, the doctors are being extremely cautious. they want to make sure the sutures in his stomach, pancreas, intestines, and bile ducts are healing sufficiently and won't break like they did the last time.

my family and i have been staying with dad around the clock to make sure he gets the attention he needs. even as sick as he has been, he has still been such a gentleman. he has however, said some pretty crazy and funny things when he has hallucinated. i hope we can all laugh about this later. for now, he is still in the critical care unit.

he needs to get well so he can resume fishing, hunting, and motorcycling!

thank you again for all the thoughts, texts, calls, cards, and visits. they lift dad up more than you all know. special thanks to trish mcgarvey, jenny burns, and lisa rowland for all the help they've provided during dad's ordeal. your kindness has been unbelievable!

i will attempt to keep you all posted.

blessings,

lisa - 1095

august 6, 2008 - "when I am afraid, i will trust in you" (psalms 56:3)

2008-08-06T10:08:00.007-04:00

top of the morning, friends....

i hope this blog entry finds you all well.

it's been a tough week in the taylor household - but we're cautiously optimistic......

as many of you know, about 3 weeks ago, my dad went to the dr. for what he thought was kidney stones. he did, in fact, have a stone, but during the cat scan, a baseball sized mass was found attached to his small intestine--on the other side of the kidney with the stone. a biopsy was completed via a scope and colonoscopy and was deemed negative for cancer. the dr's decided that the mass was simply an ulcer and that it should be repaired, as it was located in a very critical and congested area. the plan was to simply go in and remove that small section of his duodenum and sew it back together.

last wednesday, dad entered the hospital for the surgery. when the dr's got into his stomach area, they found that the mass was larger and cancerous and is called a "gist" tumor. the surgery then entailed removing 1/2 of dads stomach, 1/2 of his pancreas, part of his bile ducts, as well as part of his intestine. the procedure is called a "whipple" operation. while the surgery was alot bigger and more complicated than originally thought, dad seemed to be doing pretty well sunday and was finally allowed to drink some clear liquids. he was so exited to eat--he had had nothing by mouth for almost a week. he had a popsicle, cranberry juice, some diet coke, and some chicken broth.

shortly after he ate, he started experiencing significant pain in his right side, having trouble breathing, and hallucinating. long story short, the sutures that had been performed a week ago had popped loose. the stuff dad drank ended up in his abdominal cavity and his stomach became very distended. he also became feverish due to the infection it was creating.

at 2am, the surgeons took dad back into the operating room to redo the previous work. dad is now listed in critical condition and currently on a ventilator. they are feeding him via feeding tube. please keep my dad in your thoughts and prayers, as each passing minute improves his chances of survival.

on a much more positive note, the doctors do think they got all the cancer, as it has not spread into the stomach, pancreas, or lymph nodes. they believe the tumor was completely encapsulated.

please keep the following individuals and families in your prayers:

joyce channel

the hauser family

the wright family

quote for the day:

"in the confrontation between the stream and the rock, the stream always wins - not through strength but by perseverance"
-h. jackson brown-

until next time...be blessed

lisa - 1095

july 28, 2008 - "come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (matthew 11:28)

2008-07-28T17:36:00.006-04:00

top of the evening, friends.....

i hope this blog entry finds you all okay. well, the ortho doctor says that my bone grafts continue to heal nicely. he is pleased with how my therapy is going and with the progress i'm making. i won't see him again for 2 months.

i completed my first 5K (walk) this past weekend. i came in dead last, but i finished--which was my goal. i hope to do one event each month for the remainder of the year and then do a 1/2 marathon next year. of course, i'm still using 2 canes, but they help me tremendously on walking more correctly.

dianna and i are counting down to 9 weeks to our MBAs.

quotes for the day:

"the person who removes a mountain begins by carrying away small stones"

-anonymous-

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"adversity cause some men to break; others to break records"
-william arthur ward-

This is a long read, but well worth the time.....

story for the day:
Commentator and broadcaster Tony Snow announced that he had colon cancer in 2005. Following surgery and chemo-therapy, Snow joined the Bush Administration in April 2006 as press secretary. Unfortunately, on March 23, 2007, Snow, 51, a husband and father of three, announced the cancer had recurred, with tumors found in his abdomen,- leading to surgery in April, followed by more chemotherapy. Snow went back to work in the White House Briefing Room on May 30, but has resigned since, 'for economic reasons,' and to pursue 'other interests.' Here is Tony's wonderful testimony.

Blessings arrive in unexpected packages, - in my case, cancer. Those of us with potentially fatal diseases - and there are millions in America today - find ourselves in the odd position of coping with our mortality while trying to fathom God's will. Although it would be the height of presumption to declare with confidence 'What It All Means,' Scripture provides powerful hints and consolations. The first is that we shouldn't spend too much time trying to answer the 'why' questions: Why me? Why must people suffer? Why can't someone else get sick? We can't answer such things, and the questions themselves often are designed more to express our anguish than to solicit an answer. I don't know why I have cancer, and I don't much care. It is what it is, a plain and indisputable fact. Yet even while staring into a mirror darkly, great and stunning truths begin to take shape. Our maladies define a central feature of our existence: We are fallen. We are imperfect. Our bodies give out. But despite this, - or because of it, - God offers the possibility of salvation and grace. We don't know how the narrative of our lives will end, but we get to choose how to use the interval between now and the moment we meet our Creator face-to-face. Second, we need to get past the anxiety. The mere thought of dying can send adrenaline flooding through your system. A dizzy, unfocused panic seizes you. Your heart thumps; your head swims. You think of nothingness and swoon. You fear partings; you worry about the impact on family and friends. You fidget and get nowhere. To regain footing, remember that we were born not into death, but into life,- and that the journey continues after we have finished our days on this earth. We accept this on faith, but that faith is nourished by a conviction that stirs even within many non-believing hearts... an intuition that the gift of life, once given, cannot be taken away. Those who have been stricken enjoy the special privilege of being able to fight with their might, main, and faith to live fully, richly, exuberantly - no matter how their days may be numbered. Third, we can open our eyes and hearts. God relishes surprise. We want lives of simple, predictable ease,- smooth, even trails as far as the eye can see.... but God likes to go off-road. He provokes us with twists and turns. He places us in predicaments that seem to defy our endurance; and comprehension - and yet don't. By His love and grace, we persevere. The challenges that make our hearts leap and stomachs churn invariably strengthen our faith and grant measures of wisdom and joy we would not experience otherwise. 'You Have Been Called'. Picture yourself in a hospital bed. The fog of anesthesia has begun to wear away. A doctor stands at your feet, a loved one holds your hand at the side. 'It's cancer,' the healer announces. The natural reaction is to turn to God and ask him to serve as a cosmic Santa. 'Dear God, make it all go away. Make everything simpler.' But another voice whispers: 'You have been called.' Your quandary has drawn you closer to God, closer to those you love, closer to the issues that matter... and has dragged into insignificance the banal concerns that occupy our 'normal time.' There's another kind of response, although usually short-lived an inexplicable shudder of excitement, as if a clarifying moment of calamity has swept away everything trivial and tiny, and placed before us the challenge of important questions. The moment you enter the Valley of the Shadow of Death, things change. You discover that Christianity is not something doughy, passive, pious, and soft. Faith may be the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. But it also draws you into a world shorn of fearful caution. The life of belief teems with thrills, boldness, danger, shocks, reversals, triumphs, and epiphanies. Think of Paul, traipsing through the known world and contemplating trips to what must have seemed the antipodes (Spain!), shaking the dust from his sandals, worrying not about the morrow, but only about the moment. There's nothing wilder than a life of humble virtue, - for it is through selflessness and service that God wrings from our bodies and spirits the most we ever could give, the most we ever could offer, and the most we ever could do.
Finally, we can let love change everything. When Jesus was faced with the prospect of crucifixion, he grieved not for himself, but for us. He cried for Jerusalem before entering the holy city. From the Cross, he took on the cumulative burden of human sin and weakness, and begged for forgiveness on our behalf. We get repeated chances to learn that life is not about us, that we acquire purpose and satisfaction by sharing in God's love for others. Sickness gets us part way there. It reminds us of our limitations and dependence. But it also gives us a chance to serve the healthy. A minister friend of mine observes that people suffering grave afflictions often acquire the faith of two people, while loved ones accept the burden of two peoples' worries and fears. 'Learning How to Live'. Most of us have watched friends as they drifted toward God's arms, not with resignation, but with peace and hope. In so doing, they have taught us not how to die, but how to live. They have emulated Christ by transmitting the power and authority of love. I sat by my best friend's bedside a few years ago as a wasting cancer took him away. He kept at his table a worn Bible and a 1928 edition of the Book of Common Prayer. A shattering grief disabled his family, many of his old friends, and at least one priest. Here was an humble and very good guy, someone who apologized when he winced with pain because he thought it made his guest uncomfortable. He retained his equanimity and good humor literally until his last conscious moment. 'I'm going to try to beat [this cancer],' he told me several months before he died 'But if I don't, I'll see you on the other side.' His gift was to remind everyone around him that even though God doesn't promise us tomorrow, he does promise us eternity, - filled with life and love we cannot comprehend, - and that one can in the throes of sickness point the rest of us toward timeless truths that will help us weather future storms. Through such trials, God bids us to choose: Do we believe, or do we not? Will we be bold enough to love, daring enough to serve, humble enough to submit, and strong enough to acknowledge our limitations? Can we surrender our concern in things that don't matter so that we might devote our remaining days to things that do? When our faith flags, he throws reminders in our way. Think of the prayer warriors in our midst. They change things, and those of us who have been on the receiving end of their petitions and intercessions know it. It is hard to describe, but there are times when suddenly the hairs on the back of your neck stand up, and you feel a surge of the Spirit. Somehow you just know: Others have chosen, when talking to the Author of all creation, to lift us up, - to speak of us! This is love of a very special order. But so is the ability to sit back and appreciate the wonder of every created thing. The mere thought of death somehow makes every blessing vivid, every happiness more luminous and intense. We may not know how our contest with sickness will end, but we have felt the ineluctable touch of God. What is man that Thou art mindful of him? We don't know much, but we know this: No matter where we are, no matter what we do, no matter how bleak or frightening our prospects, each and every one of us who believe, each and every day, lies in the same safe and impregnable place, in the hollow of God's hand.'

-Tony Snow-

please pray the for the following individuals and/or families, as they are all fighting some type of battle:
the don hauser family
levi from portsmouth
glenda woodgeard
eric welsh's family
sue rance-locke
scott rike's dad
my dad ross - he has surgery this week

and finally, for my motorcycle friends....here is an awesome video!

#showshowshowshowshowshow...

until next time....

lisa - 1095

july 16, 2008 - What is impossible with men is possible with God" (Luke 18:27)

2008-07-16T12:25:00.003-04:00

top of the afternoon friends....

well....sunday, july 13, 2008 marked a year since our motorcycle crash. what a difference a year has made! who would have guessed we'd be hit off duty by an impaired driver? who would have thought i'd have to retire? but....things are how they should be. God continues to work in my life in ways i never thought possible. this event has stretched me more than i could have ever imagined and i've found determination that i never knew i had. soon, i hope to finish formal physical therapy and walk without assistance. today, i walked a mile, then went to therapy. it continues to be difficult, but i can definitely tell i'm getting stronger with each day.

thanks to everyone for all the prayers for my dad. they definitely worked! he has been deemed cancer free, however, he does go into the hospital late this month to have an ulcer repaired. the drs. will take out a small portion of his small intestine to remove the irritated area. he will be in the hospital for 5-7 days, and will have a tube from his nose to his stomach for at least 4 days to ensure there is no leakage in the repaired area. the surgeon said it is a serious surgery, but much better than what i could have been. he's nervous, but optimistic.

school is continuing....dianna and i only have 10 weeks to go! my sister terry said that this endeavor has been alot like being pregnant....the closer it gets, the farther it seems! it think i agree!

congratulations on the upcoming retirement of dispatcher carolyn mcmanis! good luck in whatever's next in your life.

quote for the day......

"Nothing limits achievement like small thinking;
nothing expands possibilities like unleashed imagination"
-William Arthur Ward-

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MY FRIDAY STORY
Just Five More Minutes
Author Unknown

While at the park one day, a woman sat down next to a man on a bench near a playground."That's my son over there," she said, pointing to a little boy in a red sweater who was gliding down the slide."He's a fine looking boy" the man said. "That's my daughter on the bike in the white dress."Then, looking at his watch, he called to his daughter. "What do you say we go, Melissa?"Melissa pleaded, "Just five more minutes, Dad. Please? Just five more minutes." The man nodded and Melissa continued to ride her bike to her heart's content. Minutes passed and the father stood and called again to his daughter. "Time to go now?"Again Melissa pleaded, "Five more minutes, Dad. Just five more minutes."The man smiled and said, "OK.""My, you certainly are a patient father," the woman responded.The man smiled and then said, "Her older brother Tommy was killed by a drunk driver last year while he was riding his bike near here. I never spent much time with Tommy and now I'd give anything for just five more minutes with him. I've vowed not to make the same mistake with Melissa. She thinks she has five more inutes to ride her bike. The truth is, I get Five more minutes to watch her play."Life is all about making priorities, what are your priorities?Give someone you love 5 more minutes of your time today!

Please keep the following people in your thoughts and prayers, as they are all continuing to fight some type of battle:

len gray

glenda woodgeard

gina herbert

ty grimwoods daughter, lauren

thanks to colonel & brenda collins, terri west, bob booker, mark atkeson, wendy forbes, & mike hunter for continuing to keep me lifted up.

elzie - i know that my dad would NEVER tell you that i ate him out of house and home. he assured me that you made that up! and yes....i can still fit in that dress!

chris errington - you promised you'd never tell anyone about the baby's breath ordeal! what happens near youngstown....stays in youngstown!

until next time...be blessed!

lisa - 1095

june 30, 2008-"love is patient; love is kind; love is not envious or boastful or arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way...(1 Cor 13:4-7)

2008-06-30T21:27:00.005-04:00

top of the evening, friends....

i hope all is well with you and yours. things continue to progress well here, aside from a pulled muscle in my right ribs--which makes walking with a cane a little more challenging.

i received a praise report this week--i will be done with my MBA in about 13 weeks! it's been a long process, but i pray it will pay off down the road in the form of another job i'm passionate about. i was so blessed with a wonderful career with the division, i fear it will be hard to find something i love as much.

i came across my kindergarten picture today and because it cracked me up, i thought i'd share it with you. i'm the one with the VERY short dress, first row, 4th from the left. i can't wait for comments from elzie.

on a more serious note, i'd like to ask for prayer for my dad. during a CAT scan for kidney stones last week, the dr. found a baseball sized mass near where his stomach and small intestine come together. he goes in to be scoped (and/or a colonoscopy) very soon to determine if the mass is on the inside or outside of his intestine. if it is on the outside, the surgery will be much less complicated. whether the mass is malignant or benign, it must come out. the dr. said that that particular area is very congested with several organs and he does not want to risk any obstruction. while dad is concerned, he is confident that whatever happens we will deal with it. for those of you who don't know him, he's a pretty special guy and my "motorcycle buddy."

quote for the day:

"what if you gave someone a gift, and they neglected to thank you for it-would you be likely to give them another? life is the same way. in order to attract more of the blessings that life has to offer, you must truly appreciate what you already have"
-ralph marston-

Words Of A Feather
"There was once a man who loved to gossip. He loved the attention it brought him, and could not stop himself from speaking about others, sometimes sharing the good they did, but most often sharing the mistakes they made. "In time, however, he realized the harm his speech was causing and he sought to make amends. He went to his rabbi and explained the situation, and asked how he could make amends. "The rabbi thought for a moment and instructed the man to go to the marketplace and purchase two of the finest feather pillows he could find. He should then take the pillows to the top of the mountain overlooking the village, tear them open, and spill the feathers into the wind. "The man was surprised and pleased at the rabbi's advice. He thought repentance would be much harder than this. So he ran to the marketplace, purchased his pillows, and within an hour had scattered their feathers to the wind. "He returned to the rabbi all aglow. He was ready to be forgiven for his gossiping. Not just yet, the rabbi told him. There was one more thing to do. He had to return to the mountain and repack the pillows with the feathers that he had scattered. "'But that's impossible,' the man said. 'Those feathers have gone everywhere, there is no way I can take them back now.'" "The rabbi nodded solemnly and said, 'What is true of the feathers is true of the words. Once spoken they can never be retrieved. The harm caused by gossip cannot be undone.'"
—Rabbi Rami Shapiro from The Sacred Art of Lovingkindness-

please continue to keep the following other people in your thoughts and prayers, as they are all facing difficulties right now: gina herbert, glenda woodgeard, dale robirds son ryan,

mary taylor, scott speakman's mom, & ernestine abrams.

congratulations to ginny fogt and mike nisky on their upcoming retirements! and thanks to my "breakfast at the barrel" friends for a wonderful time of fellowship friday!

until next time, be blessed!

lisa - 1095

june 16, 2008 - "prayer is not asking for what you think you want, but asking to be changed in ways you can't imagine"

2008-06-16T21:56:00.003-04:00

top of the evening, friends...

i trust this blog entry finds you all well. things here are progressing. i have recently been able to take a few steps without my cane. it's still pretty choppy and a bit uncomfortable, but i consider that a great victory. the therapy nazis are doing their magic and killing me! actually, i do believe it is helping a lot, but they really push the envelope. my goal is to at least walk a half marathon next year, if my leg cooperates. right now, i'm getting about a 70 degree bend on my left leg. tonight i walked just over 2 miles--i'm really slow, but getting faster by the week. i return to the orthopedic doctor in late july, so i'm hoping for another great report.

mary and i are still a bit stunned at how this ordeal has come to an end. after the funeral service, i sat down and wrote a letter to john's family. i told him that they were all in our prayers and that we certainly didn't want or ever expected john to feel that hopeless. what a tragedy.

my retirement has really given me time to reflect and has given me time to do some writing. i'm not sure what i'll do with the end product, but its been very therapeudic for me. i've also had the privilege of doing some public speaking. that too has been very rewarding. you can only do so much homework and grass mowing! lol

someone needs to hook up with elzie fish and inform him that he does not resemble brad pitt--grizzly adams, maybe....but not brad pitt. i think he's slipping a bit since retirement. poor thing.

and by the way, mark fellure....the obetz racing team does not exist. in fact, it's simply another figment of elzie's very vivid imagination!

as you go about your week, please keep the following people in your prayers, as they are all fighting some kind of battle:
junior salyers
glenda woodgeard
C.K.

i couldn't select just one quote so here are 2 quotes for the day:

"there are two primary choices in life;
to accept conditions as they exist,
or accept the responsibility for changing them"
-Denis Waitley-

"when we accept tough jobs as a challenge and wade into them with joy and enthusiasm, miracles can happen"
-Arland Gilbert-

congratulations to:

major bruce ludlow on his retirement
kaila mcgarvey and mitch errington on their graduation from high school
marla gaskill and cassie kocab on their MBA graduation

thanks to:
mike rankin for the great CD - and for your very kind words of encouragement
larry balla for your continuing support and prayers
terri west for always checking in - i stopped in to see you last week, but you were MIA!
wendy forbes for always keeping me lifted up with calls and cards...you're the best!

the attached story and video (at the bottom) is so incredible, i had to share it--it demonstrates both true love and determination.

until next time, be blessed!

lisa - 1095

A son asked his father, 'Dad, will you take part in a marathon with me?' The father, who despite having a heart condition says, 'Yes.' They went on to complete the marathon together. Father and son went on to join other marathons, the father always saying 'Yes' to his son's request of going through the race together. One day, the son asked his father, 'Dad, let's join the Ironman together.' To which, his father said 'Yes'. For those who didn't know, Ironman is the toughest triathlon ever. The race encompasses three endurance events of a 2.4 mile (3.86 kilometer) ocean swim, followed by a 112 mile (180.2 kilometer) bike ride, and ending with a 26.2 mile (42.195 kilometer) marathon along the coast of the Big Island . Father and son went on to complete the race together. Click Here to View the Video of the duo.

Father and Son

may 29, 2008 - “every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father…” (James 1:17)

2008-05-29T09:28:00.006-04:00

top of the morning, friends.....

i hope this entry finds you all well.

its been a while since i made a posting, simply because i didn't have a lot to report.

today, however, i do have some extremely unfortunate news to share. mr. walenciej, the individual who hit mary and me on friday, july 13, 2007, committed suicide this week. we don't have all the details yet, but we are asking for prayer for the walenciej family, as they have lost a son, a brother, and a father. may God bless them. mary and i had long forgiven mr. walenciej, and both feel that there is nothing worth taking your own life over. the criminal case, of course, will be dismissed. please keep mary and me in your prayers. we both wanted closure, but certainly not in this manner.

quotes for the day:

"only those who dare to fail greatly can ever achieve greatly"

-robert f. kennedy -

_______________________________________________

"a strong positive mental attitude will create more miracles than any wonder drug"
- patricia neal -

captain paul pride - thanks so much for the invitation to the retirees luncheon. the food and fellowship was outstanding. it was great seeing everyone again!

retired captain les reel - thank you so much for your wonderful, heartfelt letter. you humble me, friend. i will cherish your kind words. please keep in touch - i miss your friendship and mentorship!

retired sergeant steve belyus - thanks friend, for all the crash reconstruction work you did for mary and me. we will be forever indebted to you!

for my motorcycle friends - please send me your home email addresses to stafflt@sbcglobal.net, as i'm trying to put together a "motorcycle email group" to share upcoming rides, bikes for sale, bike shows, and any other pertinent motorcycle information. in the meantime, my friend jules (641-227-9156) has the above (orange) road king for sale right now for$17,200. Also, my friend sgt. jeff skinner also has the above (white) road king for sale as well.

capital city motorcycle club will be having a "gypsy tour" ride on saturday, june 21, 2008 for those interested. capital city is on borror road just south of grove city. let me know if you need start/end times. all are welcome for riding, food, and fellowship.

please keep the following people in your prayers, as they are all experiencing some health issues:

glenda woodgeard & her mom

junior salyers

mary taylor

janet barbee

ernestine abrams

scott rikes dad

jillian salyers

also keep the patrol and its leadership in your prayers as well, as a dedicated funding source is attempting to be determined. hearings are being conducted now.

thanks to everyone who has continued to keep me lifted up via emails, phone calls, visits, prayer, etc.... things are going great! my rehab is going well, as is school. everything is as it should be and will be just fine.

until next time.....

be blessed,

lisa - 1095

may 8, 2008 - for out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks - (Matthew 12:34)

2008-05-08T07:08:00.003-04:00

top of the morning, friends....

i hope this finds you all well!

i don't really have much to report today, but wanted to ask for prayer for a few people. we all need daily prayer. the Father says that when two or more are gathered in His name, great miracles will occur.

cindy kollin - is going in for surgery today. please keep her in your prayers - for strength both physically and emotionally.

junior salyers - is battling cancer and is currently going through treatment. please continue to pray for healing and endurance.

mike salyers - my brother-in-law who is too stubborn to go to the doctor for a continuing bout of the flu and/or bronchitis.

quote for the day:

"people may fail many times, but they become failures only when they begin to blame someone else. experience is determined by yourself -- not the circumstances of your life"

- gita bellin -

story for the day (submitted by cindy kollin):

Scars… Some years ago, on a hot summer day in south Florida , a little boy decided to go for a swim in the old swimming hole behind his house. In a hurry to dive into the cool water, he ran out the back door, leaving behind shoes, socks, and shirt as he went. He flew into the water, not realizing that as he swam toward the middle of the lake, an alligator was swimming toward the shore. His father working in the yard saw the two as they got closer and closer together. In utter fear, he ran toward the water, yelling to his son as loudly as he could. Hearing his voice, the little boy became alarmed and made a U-turn to swim to his father. It was too late. Just as he reached his father, the alligator reached him. From the dock, the father grabbed his little boy by the arms just as the alligator snatched his legs. That began an incredible tug-of-war between the two. The alligator was much stronger than the father, but the father was much too passionate to let go. A farmer happened to drive by, heard his screams, raced from his truck, took aim and shot the alligator. Remarkably, after weeks and weeks in the hospital, the little boy survived. His legs were extremely scarred by the vicious attack of the animal. And, on his arms, were deep scratches where his father's fingernails dug into his flesh in his effort to hang on to the son he loved. The newspaper reporter who interviewed the boy after the trauma, asked if he would show him his scars. The boy lifted his pant legs. And then, with obvious pride, he said to the reporter, 'But look at my arms. I have great scars on my arms, too. I have them because my Dad wouldn't let go.' You and I can identify with that little boy. We have scars, too. No, not from an alligator, but the scars of a painful past. Some of those scars are unsightly and have caused us deep regret. But some wounds, my friend, are because God has refused to let go. In the midst of yourstruggle, He's been there holding on to you.

please continue to pray corporately for our country, our troops, our families, and our friends. remember, everyone is in the midst of some sort of physical, emotional, financial, or spiritual struggle today.

thanks to all who have sent words of encouragement about my retirement. i appreciate them more than you can know. for now, i'm going to focus on school and rehab and see what doors might be opened for me in the future.

God bless you all....

lisa - 1095

may 3, 2008 - a generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed - (Proverbs 11:25)

2008-05-03T15:39:00.004-04:00

top of the afternoon, friends....

i hope this finds you all well!

well, my retirement is official, as of last sunday. thanks to dave and fran dicken for opening their home for the wonderful send-off!

also thanks to everyone for such kind words, cards, and gifts. i have been so blessed with wonderful friends. you guys and gals have been nothing but stellar during this ordeal.

the rehab continues with my leg. i continue to walk 1-3 miles a day either with crutches or cane, but i am working to put more weight on it each day.

i return to the dr. the middle of this month to determine if i can be placed in formal rehab. for now, i'm just trying to become acclimated to walking again.

mary is continuing to work light duty, but should return to full duty very soon. she thanks you all for your thoughts and prayers that have made her recovery much easier.

we have another pretrial toward the end of this month. there will be at least one more after that before the jury trial.

quote for the day.....

"a happy person is not a person in a certain set of circumstances, but rather a person with a certain set of attitudes"

hugh downs

colonel collins - thanks so much for the nice gesture this week. i enjoyed our visit.

OFLS friends - thanks again for your generosity! you guys and gals are the best!

i'll let you know how the rehab/dr.'s appointment goes. the progress is slow, but sure!

until next time,

be blessed....

lisa - 1095

april 19, 2008 - if you have faith as small as a mustard seed you can say to this mulberry tree, ‘be uprooted and planted in the sea’ and it'll obey

2008-04-19T13:19:00.009-04:00

top of the afternoon, friends....

once again, i hope this blog entry finds you all well. as you know from reading previous entries, my orthopedic doctor, beginning march 31, is allowing me to now put some weight on my left leg. while i am still on crutches, the majority of the time, i continuously add additional weight each day. i have also walked with a cane for varying periods of time. unbelivably, i have even walked with no support, although its very jerky and unstable. the following two videos at the bottom of the screen show a little of my progress.

thanks to your continued thoughts, prayers, and support, i am progressing with each passing day. while i don't always notice huge improvements on a daily basis, i do notice great improvements weekly.

the picture above is of my friend sammy, who incidently, is also on Mt. Rushmore, as you can see...lol

the MBA continues. carl, dianna, and i forgot how much work and research goes into this, but we're all doing well.

for my motorcycle friends (but ALL are welcome!)....there are some upcoming rides at capital city motorcycle club. the details are listed below:

may 4, 2008 - 11a signup - 1230p ride
june 21, 2008 - gypsy tour - 9a signup - 10a ride
september 7, 2008 - kids & kamp ride - signup 11a - 1230p ride

capital city motorcycle club is located at 9700 borror road, orient, ohio 43146 - 614-877-1777

quote for the day:

it is not the cards you are dealt but what you do with them that counts
- anonymous -

terri west - thanks again for your little "pick me ups." they always make me smile.

brenda pahl - you, friend, are my inspiration. i have seen how you have fought adversity and won. i hope i can do as well!

colonel & brenda collins - thanks for always checking in on me. i so appreciate your leadership and friendship.

dave & fran dicken - thanks so much for all you've done and continue to do to make this part of my life easier.

cindy kollin - congratulations on the new house - can't wait for the housewarming party!

larry balla - thanks for your continued concern. the blue knights have been nothing but stellar!

wendy forbes - you have been such a God-send to me, friend. your thoughtfulness and compassion never cease to amaze me.

elzie fish - thanks for the visit and ride info, buddy. i don't care what my dad says, i think you're a pretty good guy.

len & shelly gray - i'm so sorry about the passing of shelly's dad. my thoughts and prayers are with you guys.

scott rike - congratulations on the birth of your new son! he's a very handsome little man!

mike hunter - thanks for the very nice note....i wish you nothing but the best on your bicycling goals. if anyone can do what you have planned....you can!

until next time....

be blessed!

lisa - 1095

april 11, 2008 - "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me" (John 14:5-6)

2008-04-11T12:59:00.004-04:00

top of the afternoon friends....

i hope this blog entry finds you all well.

things are great here. i am putting a little more weight on my leg each day. of course, i'm still using crutches, as my left leg won't yet totally support me, but i've been walking 1-3 miles each day since being told i can start weight bearing. it's slow and certainly not pretty, but i'm doing better every day!

we went to yet another pretrial yesterday. while the lab results stay in, they will be redacted to exclude the illegal drug metabolite that showed up in the suspect's blood. during the testing, the lab ran out of blood. they could show that the illegal drug was there, but unfortunately, could not quantify it. the judge did not want to unfairly prejudice the future jury with that information. go figure. there will be another two pretrials before the case goes before a jury. but....it will be alright, not matter what.

the picture is of my friend, sgt. scott rike. as i said before, he has been such an inspiration to me during this ordeal. scott had some significant health issues a while back and had to also retire. fortunately, he fought against the odds and is now back at work! i'm glad to see he's doing well these days.

the MBA continues. i had forgotten how much research goes into this! carl, dianna and i have been putting a tremendous amount of work into this. we all hope - no....we know it will pay off in the end.

quote for the day:

"the place to improve the world is first in one's own heart, head and hands"

- robert m. pirsig -

glenda woodgeard - we're all praying for your mom, who remains at OSU. we are confident she will make a complete and speedy recovery!

tina & beth - thanks again for your concern and hospitality in WV. you guys are the best!

gina herbert - we're praying for your recovery as well...please keep your chin up...it will get better - i promise!

cindy kollin - congrats on your new place....can't wait to see it!

scott rike - we're continuing to pray for you and your family. we are trusting that your father is healed and that the baby is doing great!

until next time....continue to be blessed!

lisa - 1095

march 31, 2008 - Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen” (Hebrews 11:1)

2008-03-31T22:01:00.006-04:00

top of the evening, friends....

i hope this blog entry finds you all happy and healthy this last day of march. hopefully, warmer weather is on it's way!

the photo attached is of our 2007 "motorcycles and murals" annual ride where my dad and i take a group of friends down to portsmouth, ohio to see the flood wall murals. we then go to "the ribber" for a great bbq rib lunch. the picture is of lt. kathy mckinney of the florida state patrol, my dad, lt. mark thompson, and me.

i have wonderful news! i went to the orthopedic doctor today and was told i could start weight bearing immediately. i won't see the doctor again for 6 weeks. until then, he wants me to simply get acclimated to walking again. he said it would be slow and to use the crutches at first, but try to add weight a little at a time. he won't put me in rehab yet, as that will be pretty intense. we'll revisit that possibility in may. God is good!

another positive note.....i start back to class tomorrow. i've been working on homework the biggest part of the week, so i think i'm pretty prepared. dirty di, carl and i are going back together. bless their hearts...when i had to drop out, they dropped out too. they said, "we started this MBA together....and we'll finish together." that is great friendship.

i have finally visited the retirement board's physician and providing no anticipated problems, my retirement will be official the last week of april.

i will also be traveling back to wheeling mid-april for a fourth pre-trial on our case.

quote for the day:

"Things are only impossible until they're not"

- Jean-Luc Picard -

happy birthday to my niece erin hubbard! she turns 29 today.

good luck to sgt. jim hutton (and his wife, sally) on his retirement from the patrol! happy trails to you on your future motorcycle travels! i had a very nice time at your retirement send-off. thanks so much for your kind words.

please continue to pray for gina herbert of the ohio department of public safety. she has to have another surgery in april due to a crash in june 2007. she has had such a rough go of it and could certainly benefit from your thoughts and prayers.

also pray for my friend, tom reffey who has been deployed to serve our country.

debbie chapman - great news that you're back to work! i'm sure the kids really missed you as much as you missed them! just don't over do it, friend....we have some riding to do this summer!!

terri west - i sure hope you're feeling much better too. hobbling around isn't much fun, but it does get better with time.....i promise!
lt. mark thompson - thanks for your kind words last friday as well. i appreciate them more than you know.
ray scharf - thanks so much for your email! words of encouragement like that lift me more than you know. i hope we can actually meet sometime.
jane and mark bell - thanks so much for your cards and emails! they lift me more than you know.
wyandot co/uppersandusky court friends - thank you so much for your words of encouragement too....it's been 15-20 years since i've seen you and you still keep me in your thoughts and prayers. may God bless each and every one of you!
julie broughton - thanks, buddy for always remembering me. you've been a great friend since our "girls state" days!

until next time....continue to expect to be blessed....

lisa - 1095

march 17, 2008 - “oh, that You would bless me and enlarge my territory…” (I chronicles 4:10)

2008-03-17T09:11:00.006-04:00

top of the morning, friends....

happy st. patrick's day! i trust this blog entry finds you well.

things continue to improve here (God is good!). i can do just about everything but walk and drive! hopefully, that will change at the end of the month, when i visit my orthopedic doctor.

i start back to school in 2 weeks, so i'm doing all i can to get my house in order. the painting continues (yuck!), and i have a gentleman coming today to paint the ceilings in the great room and loft. unfortunately, i can't do those from a wheelchair. i had no idea it would take me this long to paint...but i'm learning patience.

the picture is of my buddy, alan forbes during the blizzard. he and his mom, wendy came over for pizza and a movie on friday. we watched the "bee movie." of course, true to form, i fell asleep halfway through.

quotes for the day:

"Beginning today, treat everyone you meet as if they were going to be dead by midnight. Extend to them all the care, kindness and understanding you can muster, and do with no thought of any reward. Your life will never be the same again."

- Og Mandino -

__________________________________________

"Make it a bad moment, not a bad day."

- Katherine Mylius -

sgt. ryan chapman - thank you so much for your kind words. i will certainly look up your friend's story. adversity does make us stronger!

dispatcher matt knutson - i have been told you are in the hospital. you're in all of our thoughts and prayers during your recovery.

captain tina phillips - i hope you have had ANOTHER great vacation and that your time was relaxing and enjoyable. give me an update when you return.

kathy mckinniss - thanks so much for your continued thoughts and prayers. you have always been so faithful in checking in. tell eric that i hope he's doing well too.

mary hamilton - good seeing you on saturday. as always, you take care of the multitudes....!

kate pirwitz - it was nice talking with you the other day. keep your chin up. your situation is certainly not insurmountable! call me if you need any help.

charlie morrison - i hope you're feeling much better very soon! you also are in my thoughts and prayers as you recover.

for all my female motorcycle friends....you'll enjoy this link:

http://www.helmethairmagazine.com/TopTen-January2008.html

until next time, be blessed.....

lisa - 1095

march 11, 2008 - “as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts” (Isaiah 55:9)

2008-03-11T11:50:00.013-04:00

top of the afternoon, friends....

i trust this blog entry finds you all well. things are good here.

i went to see the retirement board's independent doctor yesterday as required. he agreed that i am disabled at this time and will share that with the board. i still hope to prove the doctors wrong someday and return to the OSP. we'll see.

i am still in the process of painting the inside of my house. what a job!!! the upstairs is done, and now i'm working on the downstairs. it looks good, but what a long, tedious task! nothing in my life happens quickly these days! i have a painter coming to give me an estimate on the ceilings and great room. i obviously can't do those, so i have no choice than to hire that work out.

major peyton watts has now officially moved over to my former spot in finance & logistics from the academy. i wish him nothing but the best. he has the absolute best crew to work with anywhere! i know that the academy will miss his leadership, but he's a welcome addition to OFLS!

the above picture is of the "gatlinburg gang." di, dad, trish, elzie and i are pictured. not pictured is mary, sam and mary b. i was taking a picture of them on the hotel balcony. we hope to return this year on motorcycles...."if the Lord's willin' and the creek don't rise."

i will be speaking at the athens kiwanis group later this week, at the request of former post commander mike hunter. i'm looking forward to seeing mike again, as it's been a while.

wendy and alan are coming over for our occasional movie and pizza this week as well. i think we're going to see the "bee movie." i can't wait!

i spoke with gina herbert last week. it sounds as though she's still having a rough time after her crash. bless her heart. please continue to keep her in your prayers. she still has a long way to go through therapy, etc...

mary continues to recouperate from her recent neck surgery. she asked that i thank everyone for their continued thoughts and prayers. she is hoping to return to full duty later this month.

quotes (i couldn't pick just one) for the day....

"if you believe it, you can make it happen.
that's all you need, is belief - and of course the willingness
to follow through on whatever needs to be done on your part"

-Barefoot Doctor-

"keep your goals away from the trolls"

-peter mcwilliams-

___________________

story for the day.....

two wolves

one evening an old cherokee told his grandson about a battle that goes on inside people. he said, "my son, the battle is between two "wolves" inside us all. one is evil. it is anger, envy, jealousy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority, and ego. the other is good. It is joy, peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence,empathy, generosity, truth, compassion and faith." the grandson thought about it for a minute and then asked his grandfather: "which wolf wins?" the old cherokee simply replied, "the one you feed."

jane & mark bell - thank you so much for your kind words and job recommendation. you guys are great for my ego! i'm also thankful that your grandaughter, holly is doing so well!

elzie fish - thanks buddy for coming over and helping me put a battery tender on the harley! you know what withdrawal i go through when i can't go out and smell the fumes from time to time! i don't care what my dad says...i think you're okay!

dianna white - thanks, friend for keeping me informed and for all that you do. how does mexican food sound? lol

sandy belyus - i pray that you're feeling much better. i am also sorry that you and steve missed your vacation to warmer weather!

janet from seattle - congratulations on how you did at your sergeant's assessment center. good luck on a future promotion!

major bob booker - great talking with you yesterday. i continue to miss you and the rest of the senior staff!

gary humphries - i haven't forgotten about you....i'm trying to get my house in order before you and your wife visit. i'll be in touch. thanks for keeping me in your prayers. i also look forward to riding with you guys this summer!

until next time, expect to be blessed.....

lisa - 1095

march 1, 2008 - my soul takes refuge and finds shelter and confidence in You… (psalm 57:1)

2008-03-01T11:25:00.017-05:00

top of the morning, friends!

thank you for all the birthday wishes! other than a few aches and pains, 44 doesn't feel too bad!

i appreciate the cards and calls - you guys have been great!

i hope this finds you all well and healthy. i'm getting better every day!

the picture here is of my friend ernestine, whose birthday is one day off from mine. happy 90th birthday, ernie!!!

i attended a motion to suppress hearing in wheeling yesterday on my case. the suspect's attorney was attempting to suppress the blood test, which showed a series of narcotics. fortunately, the magistrate ruled in our favor and as far as i know, the test will remain. thanks to my friend captain tina phillips, WVSP for her hospitality during my visit as well.

story for the day:

The Sands of Forgiveness

by Author Unknown

A story tells that two friends were walking through the desert. During some point of the journey they had an argument, and one friend slapped the other one in the face.
The one who got slapped was hurt, but without saying anything, wrote in the sand: TODAY MY BEST FRIEND SLAPPED ME IN THE FACE.

They kept on walking until they found an oasis, where they decided to take a bath. The one who had been slapped got stuck in the mire and started drowning, but the friend saved him.
After he recovered from the near drowning, he wrote on a stone: TODAY MY BEST FRIEND SAVED MY LIFE.

The friend who had slapped and saved his best friend asked him, "After I hurt you, you wrote in the sand and now, you write on a stone, why?"
The other friend replied "When someone hurts us we should write it down in sand where winds of forgiveness can erase it away. But, when someone does something good for us, we must engrave it in stone where no wind can ever erase it."

LEARN TO WRITE YOUR HURTS IN THE SAND AND TO CARVE YOUR BENEFITS IN STONE.

wendy forbes - thank you so much for your continuing kindness!

OFLS friends - thank you as well for the lovely custom card! i really miss you guys.

nora fish - thanks for the letter. unfortunately, i will not be going to the engagement you mentioned, but i'd love to meet your family members sometime. thanks for keeping me lifted up.

quote for the day:

"it is not falling into the water, but lying in it, that drowns"

anonymous

prayer requests:

gil and char jones - they lost their daughter, tasha last week. tasha had been released from dodd hall at OSU after some reason health issues. shortly after she was released, she unexpectedly passed. this family desperately needs your prayers.

scott rike - scott is a friend and is a sergeant with the OSP and his father has been recently diagnosed with cancer. please pray for healing as well as favor for scott to be able to get geographically closer to his family.

tonya daniels - tonya is a friend and classmate of mine from franklin university. her mom has been diagnosed with breast cancer. she asks that we keep her family in our thoughts and prayers.

dale and naomi robirds - please continue to keep their son ryan in your prayers, as he continues to battle hodgekin's lymphoma.

terri west - terri's still recovering from foot surgery. please pray for improved coordination, as i've heard that she's taken a few "spills" lately! she and i have a similar record on falling!

dianna white - she's had one knee surgery....now she's waiting to have the other one done. dance lessons continue to be on hold.

mary pfeifer - as she recovers from neck surgery.

junior salyers - my sister's brother-in-law continues to battle emphasema and cancer.

for my motorcycling friends....a special video for you:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x4mU8ZqMZPU

i will write again when i have more to report.....

until next time....be blessed!

lisa - 1095

february 21, 2008 - “for everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened” (Matthew 7:8)

2008-02-21T10:09:00.011-05:00

top of the morning, friends.....

i hope this blog entry finds you all well.

not much has happened since my last talk with you. i'm still waiting for the retirement board to contact me and set up an appointment with it's independent physician. most of the paperwork has been compiled and i suspect the retirement board will make a ruling on my situation in the next month or so. then...on to the next chapter of my life.

the above pictures are of my yamaha roadstar, which unfortunately, was totalled during the crash. while i'm glad it wasn't my harley, the yamaha was one of my favorite bikes. as strange as it may sound, it had almost become an extension of me. that was the bike i did my long-distance traveling on. it had the largest motor and more storage space than any other bike i own.

i went in and cleaned out my office last week. it's amazing how much 'stuff' one collects over a career! i just about needed a semi to bring it all home!

quote for the day (compliments of terri west):

"people are like stained glass windows: they sparkle and shine when the sun's out, but when the darkness sets in, their true beauty is revealed only if there is light within."

- elizabeth kubler-ross -

my cousin, boo-boo sent me this note and because i found it so motivational, i thought i'd share it with you:

Train of Life

Some folks ride the train of life

Looking out the rear,

Watching miles of life roll by,

And marking every year.

They sit in sad remembrance,

Of wasted days gone by,

And curse their life for what it was,

And hang their head and cry.

But I don't concern myself with that,

I took a different vent,

I look forward to what life holds,

And not what has been spent.

So strap me to the engine,

As securely as I can be,

I want to be out on the front,

To see what I can see.

I want to feel the winds of change,

Blowing in my face,

I want to see what life unfolds,

As I move from place to place.

I want to see what's coming up,

Not looking at the past,

Life's too short for yesterdays,

It moves along too fast.

So if the ride gets bumpy,

While you are looking back,

Go up front, and you may find,

Your life has jumped the track.

It's all right to remember,

That's part of history,

But up front's where it's happening,

There's so much mystery.

The enjoyment of living,

Is not where we have been,

It's looking ever forward,

To another year and ten.

It's searching all the byways,

Never should you refrain,

For if you want to live your life,
You gotta drive the train!

steve & sandy belyus - thanks so much for meeting me for breakfast last week. it was great seeing you guys again. i'll let you know when there is another "elvis sighting." lol

tom reffey - i'm so sorry i had to bail on you for dinner tonight. i'd love to take a raincheck sometime.

terri west - i hope you are healing nicely from your recent surgery. i just wish i could be half the encouragement for you as you've been for me.

laura mourne - glad the scripture came in handy....His grace is sufficient, isn't it? how'd the devotion go?

zach wolfe - nice hearing from you, zach. i worked with your dad a long time ago....being a trooper in bucyrus was one of the most enjoyable times in my career. hearing your dad's name was a real "blast from the past!" please send him my regards.

michael from D9 - good hearing from you again, sir. i'm glad you received a good grade on your paper. i'm glad i could help. good luck on future education and ministry endeavors.

please keep mary pfeifer in your prayers today, as she is undergoing surgery for a herniated disc she sustained from the motorcycle crash.

also keep dianna white ("dirty d") in your prayers, as she is having surgery on one of her knees tomorrow. future dance instruction will be on hold...lol

one more prayer request - please pray for dale & naomi robirds son, ryan. he is only 20 years old and has been diagnosed with hodgekins lymphoma. while the prognosis is good, he will have to undergo a significant amount of chemotherapy to recover.

until we talk again, be blessed!

lisa - 1095

february 9, 2008 - do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing (1 peter 3:9)

2008-02-09T09:10:00.000-05:00

top of the morning, friends.....

i hope this entry finds you all well. i'm still in my robe, enjoying a cup of earl grey tea this morning before i prepare to run a few errands. i plan to go in an clean out my office sometime this week, as i have a few personal items to pick up.

i am also in the process of compiling medical records for the retirement board's review. that's proven to be a daunting task. i spent the entire day yesterday compiling records for the victim's of crime compensation fund - another very time consuming ordeal.

mary and i went to wheeling last monday for our 3rd pretrial. the suspects attorney is attempting to suppress the blood test, which showed a laundry list of prescription drugs as well as an illegal street drug. the prosecutor feels that even if the test is thrown out, the case is still extremely strong, so we're optimistic. there will be a motion to suppress hearing later this month. we hope to get this case in front of a jury as soon as possible.

i met with the guys from HR this week as well - major bruce ludlow, captain kevin teaford, and staff lt. brian landis. they bought my lunch at the rice bowl. while the topic was not really what i wanted to discuss (retirement), they were very gracious and understanding. amongst many things we discussed, they wanted to know if i was interested in having a retirement testimonial dinner. i said no, that i would have a "get together" sometime this summer - probably at my house. i will have something simple - perhaps a cookout where you all can come over for a burger and beverage. i may be able to talk my dad into coming up and frying some of his famous fish and hushpuppies! we'll see.

story and scripture for the day

"He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver." (Malachi 3:3)

This verse puzzled some women in a Bible study and they wondered what this statement meant about the character and nature of God. One of the women offered to find out the process of refining silver and get back to the group at their next Bible Study. That week, the woman called a silversmith and made an appointment to watch him at work. She didn't mention anything about the reason for her interest beyond her curiosity about the process of refining silver. As she watched the silversmith, he held a piece of silver over the fire and let it heat up. He explained that in refining silver, one needed to hold the silver in the middle of the fire where the flames were hottest as to burn away all the impurities.The woman thought about God holding us in such a hot spot; then she thought again about the verse that says: "He sits as a refiner and purifier of silver." She asked the silversmith if it was true that he had to sit there in front of the fire the whole time the silver was being refined. The man answered that yes, he not only had to sit there holding the silver, but he had to keep his eyes on the silver the entire time it was in the fire. If the silver was left a moment too long in the flames, it would be destroyed.The woman was silent for a moment. Then she asked the silversmith, "How do you know when the silver is fully refined?" He smiled at her and answered, "Oh, that's easy -- when I see my image in it."

If today you are feeling the heat of the fire, remember that God has his eye on you and will keep watching you until He sees His image in you. This very moment, someone needs to know that God is watching over them. And, whatever they're going through, they'll be a better person in the end.

my friend roberta rice sent me a link that i thought you all would enjoy as well. it really hit home for me on living life to it's fullest. it is posted at the end of the blog - after my sign-off. enjoy!

jon (michelle's neighbor) - tell michelle thanks for thinking of me. my email address is: stafflt@sbcglobal.net

janet from seattle - as a fellow motorcyclist, i realize one doesn't easily offer up his or her "ride" to just anyone! i'm honored that you'd be willing to share yours. i just may take you up on it sometime, friend. unfortunately, i think i'll be riding dad's trike this year. i'm not sure i want to risk the two wheeler yet. i do, however, start it every week or so just to smell the fumes...lol

mike hunter - thanks mike, for the constant encouragement. you continue to inspire me. i look forward to speaking to your kiwanis group next month.

kathy mckinniss - thanks for the note, kathy. you've always been such a good friend. i look forward to hooking up sometime for lunch or coffee. please send my regards to eric.

paul hamm - the pinto was a "class act," wasn't it? they don't make self-destructing cars like that anymore! mary and i would be honored to go to lunch with you sometime!

gary & annette humphries - i look forward to your visit. i'm free most weekends, so we need to plan something soon. my email is listed above. thanks so much for thinking of me.

captain tina phillips - i'm here. where are you? thanks for the comment about the picture, however, i took alot of grief about it because many people thought i was 12 in that picture...lol how was your trip, friend? i really appreciated you sending one of your "friends" to meet us at the courthouse. you have no idea what a friendly face meant that day. call me sometime....

until next time, be blessed.....

lisa - 1095

january 29, 2008 - “the mind of man plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps” (Proverbs 16:9)

2008-01-29T21:34:00.000-05:00

top of the evening, friends....

i hope that this entry finds you all well. you folks have been so incredibly inspirational to both mary and me! we thank you again for that.

i finally have an update on my situation. i went to the orthopedic doctor yesterday and he said that medically, my leg is healing quite nicely. he indicated that while the graft is taking and i'm progressing very well, he still wants me to be non-weight bearing on my left leg for another two months. my lower bone has healed sufficiently to walk, but my femur still needs some time to mend. he said that while the metal plate on the front of my bone helps stabilize it, he didn't want to put a plate on the back of the bone because it would inhibit the blood supply. without additional support, the new bone could be damaged...so, the moral of the story is that i need to continue to be patient. that, of course was not the news that i wanted to hear.

i also write this with a heavy heart because i now know that i must file for disability retirement very soon. i had planned to return to light duty on february 4th, but will be unable to do so because my doctor cannot definitively say that i will be prepared to return to full duty in 90 days. while bargaining unit employees enjoy the benefit of a year of transitional or light-duty, exempt officers do not. we are only entitled to 90 days of transitional duty because parity has not been extended to us - forcing my untimely departure. i have great love and passion for my job, as i have given almost 25 years of my life to the OSP. it disheartens me that i will be leaving this great organization and its great people this way. one good thing is that i have 5 years "come back" rights. so if i can progress and heal, my hearts desire is to return to full duty as soon as possible. with God's grace and mercy, i hope to make that happen. please continue to pray for healing, as i really would love to finish my career the way i intended.

one thing i do know is that God is in control and that everything will be okay. He doesn't close one door unless he opens another. my finite mind doesn't understand why things happened this way, but i have to believe that there's a lesson or a purpose here. i just need to be sensitive to His plans. in the meantime, i plan to work very hard at rehab and finish my MBA.

quote for the day

"just as storms in life are a certainty, so is the provision of God for every storm we will ever face. life can be messy and bad things will happen, because every crisis and every storm is an opportunity to trust God. He calls us to a heavenly perspective when facing challenging times. He calls us to see them as He sees them - opportunities for His power and purpose to be illustrated in human terms."

- crosswalk.com -

wendy forbes - thank you again for always checking on me. your cards and calls are greatly appreciated!

steve belyus - thanks for the call on tuesday. i treasure our friendship more than you know, buddy. call me when you're back in town i'll buy you that lunch i owe you!

to my friends at OFLS - i will miss you folks more than you know. a person could not ask for a better group of talented people to work with. please keep in touch, as i'd love to hear from you all.

colonel butch collins - thank you for all you've done to assist with my situation. you, sir are a gentleman and i regret not having the opportunity to work with you longer.

lisa terrill rowland - oh, my goodness! it's been 25 years since i've seen or heard from you! thanks for writing in on the blog. i'd love to get together for coffee sometime when i visit my family. i hope all is well in your neck of the woods.

elzie fish - well, friend....it sounds like i too may be the "r" word as well. maybe we ought to build that motorcycle we've talked about?

janet & deb from seattle - it was great hearing from both of you! mary and i truly cherish our friends from the international association of women police. you have all been great about checking on our conditions. maybe we'll see you at future conferences.

reverend ellsworth - thank you so much for lunch last week. you too, are a gentleman and a friend. i'm so thankful that we have such a class act as our chaplain. next time, however,the lunch is on me!

mark atkeson & bob booker - thanks for the call today. you guys always know when i need encouragement the most. please let me take a raincheck on the visit...i'd love to see you guys.

things are as they should be......until next time, be blessed!

lisa - 1095

january 23, 2008 - “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love Him” (I Corinthians 2:9)

2008-01-23T19:51:00.000-05:00

top of the evening, friends....

i hope that this blog entry finds you all well! things are good here because God is good every day!

the above picture is of the car that hit mary and me on friday the 13th. a combined minimum speed of approximately 66 mph does a significant amount of damage, as you can see.

well, my new truck came in and i couldn't be more pleased with it. i still need to get seat covers installed so the hounds can once again ride with me. they sure don't appreciate being left behind. mary, trish and i broke it in last weekend and took it down to hocking hills to have lunch with raejean and nancy. we all had a great time, and what a beautiful day it was for a drive - although COLD!

i'm still anxiously awaiting the next dr's appointment to see if i can bear weight on my leg or if i have to have additional surgery. my plan was to return to work 2/4...but we'll see.

there is a pretrial (the 3rd thus far) in early february in wheeling for our case. we both plan to attend. this will be the first one we've been able to be there for.

quote for the day:

"Man, alone, has the power to transform his thoughts into physical reality; man, alone, can dream and make his dreams come true."

Napoleon Hill

colonel paul & margie mcclellan - thank you so much for the "sturgis" hat and shirt! you guys shouldn't have done that, but you know i love them both! i will cherish and proudly wear each! i pray your travels are safe and enjoyable. please keep in touch.

colonel butch & brenda collins - i appreciate your call last weekend. i also appreciate your concern for me and my situation. you have no idea how much that means.

wendy forbes - thank you so much for the great pictures and cards! i also always enjoy having you and alan over for movies, etc... i hope your new position is going well too. you've got all it takes to be greatly successful!

mark fellure - buddy, i'll be back on the road in no time. we need to hook up at capital city motorcycle club. with guys like elzie around, they really need us to "class up" the joint! lol

paul hamm - my goodness! it's been better than 20 years since i've heard from you! wow...how time flies, my friend. i still remember us tooling around in my 1972 ford pinto! i appreciate your blog entry and hope you continue to write and keep in touch.

captain tina phillips - thanks again for your help in many arenas. i'll be in touch before the pretrial to set up a meeting place with one of your guys. you, my friend, have been a God send.

dick krider - wow...another blast from my past! some of my fondest memories are working in wyandot county. we always enjoyed such a great working relationship and friendship with you folks. i miss you guys more than you know and appreciate your note on the blog. please keep in touch and tell everyone i said hello.

elzie fish - COTA still has you banned, if you weren't aware. "born to be wild??????" ps....my dad said doesn't appreciate you harassing me....or something like that.....lol

captain dave dicken - thanks for the "care package" you left for me today. i'm sorry i wasn't here to visit with you. i appreciate you keeping me apprised of what's going on.

i'll update you when i have more information. thanks so much for reading and caring!

until then, be blessed!

lisa - 1095

friday, january 11, 2008 - "...I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made" (psalm 139:13-14)

2008-01-11T09:55:00.000-05:00

top of the morning, friends....

i hope this blog entry finds you all well.

i don't have a lot to report today, but wanted to check in and again thank you all for your kindness and for being so attentive to mary, me and the blog.

because of God's grace and your prayers, however, i continue to improve with each passing day. i'm very excited to visit the doctor at the end of this month to determine if i need additional bone grafting (i pray not...), and to see if i can soon bear weight on my left leg. both of these will help decide if i return to work in february. i can't wait to actually walk again! it's been 6 months since i have worked, walked, and driven. my last surgery has had 2 1/2 months healing time, so i'm optimistic that i'll receive good news. please keep me in your prayers....those have kept mary and me both going over the last few months.

my new vehicle has not arrived yet, as there's been a bit of a delay with the delivery. hopefully, it will be in columbus the first of next week. i guess patience is a virtue. i've learned a lot of patience over the last year....lol

the above picture is of my dad and me in tennessee. we were doing our best to impersonate motorcycle outlaws. i think he kinda resembles willy nelson - but don't tell him i said so!

i'm heading out now to run some errands prior to the weekend, as there's always something to do.

quote for the day:

Discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishments.

Jim Rohn

major mark atkeson - thanks for the call, friend. you're always so good to check on me.

woody triplett family - i'm so sorry for your loss. woody was such a blessing. hopefully, time will heal some of your hurt.

captain tina phillips - thanks for the call yesterday! it's always good to hear from a great friend. you've been nothing but extraordinary during this whole process. it's nice to have a "protector" in WV! i hope i can someday repay you.

major bob booker - hey buddy, i appreciate your call this week. it's always good to hear from you. we'll have to meet over coffee when i return!

elzie fish - "apparently canada didn't want me either???" what exactly did you mean by that? sounds like maybe you had a little negative experience at the border as well. i'd love to hear those stories!

kathy mckinnis - good hearing from you! i hope you'll not be a stranger from the blog again! i always enjoy your entries, and hope all is well in your neck of the woods.

lydia wagner - i hear congratulations is in order for your new promotion! i wish you only the best in your new position. maybe you can keep dianna in line now that you'll be in the same building. God only knows everyone else has failed...lol

julie smith - you have no idea how much i appreciated your call. when i've long-retired, you will be one of the people i miss most. i appreciate your hard work, professionalism, and friendship.

captain dave dicken - thanks for the visit and updates, my friend! i so miss working with you. we have the ability to accomplish so much, yet have fun doing it. i hope i can return soon to lighten your load.

terri west - you and i have similar political views....lol

s/lt. kim campbell - thanks for your call and invite, although i'm going to have to take a raincheck for now. i do appreciate your thoughtfulness!

until we talk again, expect to be blessed!

lisa - 1095

saturday, january 5, 2008 - "teach us to number our days..." (psalm 90:12)

2008-01-05T09:52:00.000-05:00

top of the morning, friends....

i hope this finds you all well on this rainy saturday morning! i'm just trying to get some "odd jobs" done this month before my return to work in february. there's always something to do, isn't there?

last night, wendy and alan forbes came over for pizza and a movie. we had a great time watching "karate kid." wendy was kind enough to pick up the DVD and we ordered the pizza. wendy looked absolutely fantastic. she's lost over 30 lbs!

i also bought a new vehicle last night. my old explorer had 134,000 miles and has been "put to pasture." i ended up buying a toyota tacoma p/up truck so that i can still haul my dogs around, as well as get my mulch and stuff in the spring and summer. i should get it sometime this week. i've never had a pickup, but i was quite attached to my SUV, so i think it will be comparable. the picture above is a truck similar to what i bought. the dealership actually had a salesman come to my house to do the paperwork. now, that's service! (thanks lew karbler!)

the above picture is of my dad and me. he's sitting on his 1998 harley davidson road king trike, with a lehman conversion kit. i bought it on ebay for him about a year and a half ago and he just loves it! he let me borrow it last summer and i took a 2 week trip out west and up into canada with my "biker chick" friends....lol what's interesting is that we all went through customs together and i was the only one detained. what's up with that???

i talked with mary last night. she's enjoying being back to work and is feeling better each day. she wanted me to thank you all again for the calls, cards, and visits while she was off.

quote for the day:

"courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the judgment that something else is more important than fear"

ambrose redmoon

elzie - thanks for always coming to my rescue when i need something. i appreciate your willingness to help me find a new vehicle, even though you voted against me joining capital city motorcycle club.....lol

jean myers - thanks so much for the candy! i'm not sure if i ned to gain weight now, or not...but your contribution will certainly help! lol i'm so glad you're enjoying retirement. you deserve it, my friend.

toni roach - thank you for the lovely card and thoughtful words! your note was very heartfelt and appreciated. i know mary really loves you guys and is thankful to be back to work. she always brags on her "crew." i hope i get the opportunity to come back down and visit with you folks soon.

brian bender - please see a psychologist about the delusions you are having about beating me in a wheelchair race, my friend. either you need psychological help or you need to get off the drugs you're using! you're going DOWN! name the time and place - and have an undertaker on standby to dispose of your defeated self!

until we talk again, be blessed!

lisa - 1095

december 31, 2007 - So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed - (John 8:36 NIV)

2007-12-31T17:11:00.000-05:00

top of the evening, friends....

here it is, the end of 2007, and i pray that 2008 is wonderful for each one of you. with each year, comes new opportunities and adventures. i am so excited to return to work and school! i just know that the coming year will bring great things!

i don't really have any grand plans tonight, other than maybe getting something to eat. my sister has invited me down, but i'm not sure about the weather, so that's kinda on hold.

dianna and her mom came over last night for some homemade green beans, red skinned potatoes, cornbread, and cottage ham (whatever that is!!!). oh, yeah...and custard pie. we had a great time, but i think we all ate too much....lol

the above picture is of me and my dad, ross. we were preparing for a beautiful day of riding. it's obvious that i received my "passion" for motorcycling from him. he had me on a mini-bike at about the time i could walk, so i guess he can't blame me for my favorite hobby! we can't wait to get back on our bikes this summer.

i received an email from retired lt. mike hunter (from the athens post) that i felt compelled to share with you (i hope you don't mind, mike). he is one of the many people who have inspired me more than you know (thank you again, mike!). i'm so honored that he chose me as his "purpose" in riding for 2007. the following is a part of his correspondence:

"On June 15th a friend and I rode our bicycles 70 miles to Zanesville and stopped a troop to talk to him about you. I had just gotten back into bicycling with a little bit of seriousness, as I was trying to get "back" into shape (feeling soft and fat), and I was looking for motivation. The overnight trip got me going, and I kept it up. Well, as your recovery started, I thought about doing some serious riding with a purpose - to reach 3000 miles from the 13th of June for the year. It was your recovery that motivated me, as I saw no signs of self-pity, and a lot of gritty tough work and pain. I worked all summer at it and into the fall. Getting a full-time job put a crimp into my riding time. Winter brought a new challenge - COLD!!! Nevertheless, as my riding season was dedicated to your recovery effort, I decided I could not fall down on the job. I had a crankset meltdown yesterday afternoon and had to hitch a ride to the bike shop (with much dread). However it was an easy fix, and I finished my 42 mile ride at 9PM. I have 2954 miles as of today since your accident. My lights and winter riding gear have gotten a workout. (Even now as it is only 35 degrees, I am procrastinating by writing this e-mail! LOL). I will ride the last 46 miles (since I started counting) this afternoon. You have shown a lot of courage. Your crutches have gotten a workout (don't fall any more). My 27-year-old Panasonic touring bike has too. Solidarity! Keep up the great work. I see a future of motivational speaking for you, and until you start talking, no one will know your story as you will get out of your chair and stroll brisky to the podium to begin - just like most everyone else. Gotta go ride."

retired major fred goldstein - thanks buddy, for the call today. you always are kind to call and check on my progress. i'm so thankful that your knee is progressing and you are feeling better with each day.

major bob brooks - thanks to you too, for your phone call. you and mildred have also been great about calling me to see if i needed anything and to update me on OSP issues. i appreciate that more than you know.

retired lt. colonel gil jones - i'm so glad that your daughter is showing progress! the prayer warriors are at work for you, friend.

elzie fish - if i'm home, some refreshments will be here! be safe, my friend....it doesn't sound like the weather will be cooperating for our annual "new years motorcycle ride."

dan richhart - i DO appreciate your humor and frankly, i'm going through withdrawal...lol

laura pascuzzi - thanks for the phone call today. you always know how to lift my spirits. i'm glad that your shoulder is healing nicely. we've all had to learn to be patient, haven't we???

tina phillips - i know you're ready for retirement....but i'm not - yet! i want to go out on MY terms, not on disability, if possible! thanks so much for your help with the attorney, court cases, etc... it's great to have a "protector" in WV. who would have guessed we'd have been here a couple of years ago?

quote for the day:

"Be like a postage stamp. Stick to it until you get there"

Bob Proctor

well, until we talk again, in 2008, continue to expect to be blessed!

lisa - 1095

thursday, december 27, 2007 - God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God (2 Cor. 5:21)

2007-12-27T11:13:00.000-05:00

top of the morning, friends....

i hope that you all had a great Christmas and will have a very happy new year!

i spent Christmas eve at my sisters, where "controlled chaos" ruled....lol

the many kids make it so much fun! they had a great time and it was so enjoyable to watch them open their gifts. i came home later on Christmas day and have yet to put my stuff away! and i might add....i got way too much stuff for Christmas! my family and friends were way too generous! as of now....i'm planning a quiet new years eve at home.

i continue to get better with each passing day, thanks to all your prayers. i'm hoping that by january, i can actually get back down on the floor to resume my exercise program. it's a little difficult to do it via wheelchair. since my last surgery, i've been unable to get onto and off of the floor by myself, as the healing of my good leg has been slow. i did, however, walk 1.6 miles with my crutches yesterday, but boy...did it wear me out!

well, providing that my doctor releases me after my appointment in late january, i'm planning to return to work in early february and will return to my master's program in march. carl roark, dianna white and i only have four classes to complete for our MBA's...so we're very excited to get those goals completed.

i got a great surprise on Christmas eve - julie smith from our fleet section came to visit and brought along a lovely gift basket from her and my other friends at fleet. i was honored that she spent her lunch hour visiting with me! we had a chance to catch up and chat a bit. while she was here, my retired bud, elzie fish showed up as well. he always brings some "spice" to the conversation. lol we all had a great time!

quote for the day:

"the strength of a nation derives from the integrity of the home"

confucius

elzie fish - dianna says, "no" to the dancing in front of santa....no matter how good your costume might be!

terri west - thanks for the gluten free website! actually, we've been trying to new recipes that aren't half bad! the homemade stuff is certainly better than the store bought stuff!

dan richhart - i can't wait to hear your new material. it gives me something to look forward to!

to my "favorite all-time secretary-" i have been blessed with GREAT secretaries....so....which one are you????

ginny higginbotham - it was great hearing from you both by phone and on the blog! i hope you and your family have a wonderful holiday season! don't spoil the grandkids too much! i don't know if i ever told you or not, but i really cherish our friendship and i appreciate how you always kept my fat outta the fire!

colonel butch and s/lt. brenda collins - thanks so much for the update on cory! what a wonderful Christmas present for him and his family! we'll continue to keep them in our prayers.

retired lt. rick imhoff - thanks for the offer! you've been a great friend over the years, so it's no surprise that you offer to help! if i can do anything for you....let me know as well.
you continue to be in my thoughts too.

retired lt. colonel gil jones - we are all praying that your daughter recovers from her recent illness. the "prayer warriors" are at work! we will continue to keep her and your family in our thoughts.

until we talk again....continue to expect God's best!

lisa - 1095

december 21, 2007 - “O favored one [endued with grace]! The Lord is with you!” (Luke 1:28 AMP)

2007-12-21T18:59:00.000-05:00

top of the evening, friends....

well, here it is less than a week before Christmas, and i haven't sent a single card out! forgive me. with all that's been going on, i have been very remiss. thank you all for the Christmas cards and continued thoughts and prayers, particularly during this holiday season. They mean more than you know.

i visited my plastic surgeon on tuesday. he was extremely pleased with the progress on my hand and even cleared me for strength exercises. until now, we simply worked on range of motion. he looked at my leg and once again described how unoptimistic he was when we started this journey and how pleased he is now that i have kept my leg and will soon (hopefully) be walking again. that really encouraged me!

i had therapy twice this week and my physical therapist is also pleased with my progress. she says that most of my hand function is normal - which was also very encouraging.

on thursday, i traveled to jackson, ohio to check on two of my elderly friends: ernestine abrams and joyce channel. ernestine was one of my neighbors when i lived down south. she is now in a nursing home in jackson. she is 90 years old and can certainly use your prayers. joyce is a member of my old church family. i got to visit her at home and catch up on everything. she recently had back surgery and could too, use some prayers for healing.

jane hawthorn - it was wonderful talking with you. gosh, it's been 25 years since we've seen each other or talked! i hope you have an opportunity to visit so we can catch up as well. may God bless you and your family!

kim campbell - i am so sorry to hear about the passing of your mom. my thoughts and prayers are with you during this time. as you know, my own mom passed 2 years ago and there's not a day that goes by that i don't think of her. you spent a lot of quality time with your mom over the last year. you can cherish those memories forever. please call if i can do anything.

ernie & jane howard - thank you so much for the lovely centerpiece! you guys are too much! i hope you and your family have a great holiday. please say "hi" to dexter and francie for me too. who knows....maybe i'll see you in middletown soon.

my OFLS staff - thank you guys and gals for the "trader joes" card. you have no idea how much that will come in handy with my eating problem! i appreciate each and every one of you and thank you for the jobs you do all year long. i'm so blessed to work with such quality people!

nora fish - i traveled through your neighborhood the other day in a quest to walk my dogs. i didn't know which house you lived in, or i'd have stopped. you have been so faithful to pray for my recovery. even though we've never met, i feel a special bond with you. thanks so much for your cards and prayers. please send my regards to cheryl and jed.

elzie - dianna said she really didn't care about your "feel good factor"...she just wants cold, hard cash....lol furthermore...."fred astaire????" we don't freakin' think so!

kelley & glenna williams - i hope you continue to get nourished in my absence!

dan richhart - merry Christmas to you as well, my friend! i really miss your "joke of the day."

nurse julie - thanks for the blog entry. i hope you knee continues to heal. please keep me posted.

colonel butch & brenda collins - thank you so much for the book! i appreciate you thinking of me and the rest of the senior staff during this holiday season. i will read and cherish it! while i haven't yet read the book, i have heard of tony dungy and his inspirational faith. what's the latest on officer cory winfield? we've all had him in our thoughts and prayers.

quote for the day:

"Whatever course you decide upon, there is always someone to tell you that you are wrong. There are always difficulties arising which tempt you to believe that your critics are right. To map out a course of action and follow it to an end requires...courage."

Ralph Waldo Emerson

until we talk again.....expect to be blessed,

lisa - 1095

december 15, 2007 - though i walk through the valley of the shadow of death, i will fear no evil; for You are with me (psalm 23:4)

2007-12-14T14:17:00.000-05:00

top of the afternoon, friends....

it's saturday morning and boy, is the snow coming down! i think i'm in for the day...i sure don't want to risk falling again.

oh, yeah....my friend laura pascuzzi wanted to know when i was going to post a picture of a "real bike" and a "real woman" on the blog...lol so.....here's laura with her harley davidson road glide motorcycle. frankly, the color hurts my eyes...but to each her own! lol she was behind me on her bike the day mary and i were hit.

it's been a very busy week. i went to see a dietician and to therapy on wednesday. thursday, mary and i met with an attorney about our case and then we stopped at the casino in wheeling on our way back. of course, mary and trish ate ice cream while i lost money!!! on friday, i had "breakfast at the barrel" at 6:30am, therapy in the afternoon, and a holiday dinner in the evening.

i'm feeling better with each passing day. i still have alot of pain in my good leg, but it's much better than it was. as impatient as i was, i've learned more patience than i could have ever imagined. i've had to....otherwise i would have lost my mind. this time to reflect, however, has helped me realize what's really important in life and to develop some additional life goals. so....it's all good. as i've said before, many, many, many more blessings than "bad stuff" have occurred out of this ordeal.

amazingly enough, the blog site has over 20,000 hits now. i'm forever amazed that so many people care enough to check on our progress. we love and thank you all for watching out for us.

quote for the day:

"he who has no Christmas in his heart will never find Christmas under a tree"

Author Unknown

a good friend of mine, former trooper debbie (bragg) chapman sent this link to me and i wanted to share it with you. it really explains God's love in such a fundamental way. enjoy:

http://www.ksbj.org/eblogs/morningShow/?p=113

to the ladies and gentlemen from the "excellence" dinner - mary, trish and i want to thank you all for a wonderful evening. thank you for the invitation and a great time of fellowship. you folks truly do a wonderful job each year with this event. reverend ellsworth and colonel collins both did eloquent jobs speaking!

mary taylor - welcome home, stepmom! i pray that your rehab continues at home. we all know how important "home" is when you're away from it for so long!

the welling family - i'm so sorry about the passing of jimmy. my family and i will continue to pray for you during this terrible time.

mary pfeifer - i got from a very reliable source that today is your birthday!!! wow....45 looks good on you!

wendy forbes - thank you so much for the beautiful bracelet! the inscription touched me more than you'll ever know. trish is very appreciative of the lovely ornament as well. you're such a good and faithful friend!

jan (from aviation) - thank you so much for the very heartfelt letter! your words brought tears to my eyes. you, friend, are the one who inspires me! thank you again for taking time to write such as thoughtful letter!

laura & jules - thank you for the beautiful planter! i pray that laura's surgery went well and that she makes a complete and speedy recovery! have a very merry Christmas!

breakfast at the barrel folks - guys and gals, i had a great time friday! thanks for meeting me and sharing a meal. that time of sharing and fellowship means more than you'll ever know.
colonel & becky costas, major born, captain dicken, s/lt. roark, lt. white, wendy forbes, major booker, captain teaford and his wife becky, and son cody all showed up!

steve & sandy belyus - your crash reconstruction book was very helpful for the attorney. thanks again for all you two have done for mary and me after our crash. your kindness will never be forgotten.

dan richhart & the kelley williams family - i'm trying my best to come back quickly. i've heard you folks are starving without my endless supply of pretzels, licorice, and candy. kathy mccarthy told me that everyone's looking anorexic....is that true?

jon (neighbor) - thanks for checking on me. please tell michelle that i'm fine and will recover in time. God has a plan for me....i just need to listen and be sensitive to what He says. no matter what happens....everything will be A-OK!

elzie - dianna wants to know if you'll just give her the dollars rather than have her dance for them. please let her know. we'll all be anxiously awaiting your response.

until we talk again.....continue to be blessed!

lisa - 1095

december 11, 2007 - therefore, do not worry about tomorrow (matthew 6:34)

2007-12-11T22:03:00.000-05:00

top of the evening, friends....

i hope you didn't have to do much outside during this past rainy weekend! thank goodness the rain wasn't snow, or we'd all still be digging out.

praise God i got the hospital bed removed from my living room last week! right after the hospital supply guy left, the carpet cleaners came and cleaned my carpets! my house is almost back to normal, as i can now sleep in my own bed. most of you know what a "neat freak" i am, so these events were huge victories for me.

the last 3 weeks have been pretty rough. i'm just now starting to get around without immense pain. unfortunately, i slipped and fell on a sidewalk this afternoon, as i was trying to get some exercise on my crutches. thankfully, i'm only a bit sore, i think. i banged up my already injured hand, elbow, and foot, but i don't think there's any significant damage. this was all in an effort to walk my poor dogs. they've suffered along with me. i used to walk them at least 2 miles a day, and we'd either go to "wagtail trail" or hargus lake to hike on the weekends. they so enjoy the opportunity to get out and run.

i go see a dietician this week regarding my celiac's disease and have therapy. i also go consult with an attorney regarding my case this week.

once again, i was subjected to another one of "dirty di's" dance shows on saturday night. frankly, i just don't know how much more of these exhibits i can stand! she created some dance moves to the song, "the way i were." i don't think i've ever laughed so much!

another couple of praise reports:

my sister's and laura's abnormal mammograms came back fine. they were both so relieved. they also wanted me to thank you all for your wonderful prayers.

my stepmom, mary is doing much better and was transferred to rehab. she may come home friday. she was only the second person to be put in the new middletown regional hospital and they included her in a newspaper article this week. i'm thankful she should be released soon, as my dad is really running himself ragged.

quote for the day:

A candle loses nothing by lighting another candle.

Erin Majors

thanks to my friends at alum creek for the wonderful cookies they left in my door! you guys are too much!

thanks to captain dicken for the endless updates to keep me abreast of OSP happenings.

also thanks to nora fish....while i've never met you, you've been so faithful to keep me in your thoughts and prayers. please thank my old church family for me for sharing my story with you. i appreciate the cards you've sent me.

thanks to everyone who included me on your Christmas card list this year. while i've been gone from the patrol on disability for 5 months, you folks have continued to remember me. there's nothing like my friends and patrol family!

hopefully, i'll have more to write after my visit with the attorney. until then, be blessed.....!

lisa - 1095

december 5, 2007 - it is through Him that we've received grace (romans 1:5)

2007-12-05T13:27:00.000-05:00

top of the afternoon, friends....

what a beautiful first snow! i have to admit, it's much prettier when you don't have to go and handle accidents in it.....lol i always worried about getting hit while working the road in bad weather....i never imagined i would be hit by an impaired driver, while off duty, on vacation, at 2:30pm in the afternoon! how ironic is that? anyways, it was breathtaking when i woke up this morning.

my left leg isn't giving me much trouble, other than it doesn't want to bend beyond 49 degrees. my good leg, however, is still extremely sore. i was told by my bone dr. that the reason it's so sore is that the surgical team inadvertently poked a hole in my right femur as they harvested bone and marrow. he said that because they were so aggressive, it occurred, but they needed to get as much as they could to repair my left leg. unfortunately, i can't exercise as much as i did prior to the surgery yet, as i can't get down on the floor to work out. what exercise i do has to be either from the bed or wheelchair. to compound the issue, i pulled a muscle in my lower back a day or two ago. it makes getting around a bit challenging, but it will be okay. otherwise, i feel great....i'm eating good....and putting on a little of my weight. another victory!

retired major fred goldstein called me this morning. he's been so faithful about checking on me! he now works for public safety.

major peyton watts also called from the academy. i spoke with both him and captain andy stritmatter. they updated me on the upcoming graduating class. boy, time flies!

mike & connie hunter - thanks for the blood! you just never know when you'll need it! i appreciate your thoughts and prayers as well.

elzie fish (my retired bud) - i think the budweiser just may have affected your mind! i'll admit the restaurant i chose in tennessee was less than desirable, but if you'll remember correctly, no one, other than me, would "step up to the plate" to choose a place to eat. just because they served "tofurky" and bean sprouts didn't make it all bad, now did it???? besides, the soy burger you ordered looked edible. furthermore....the goldfish in the fountain were alive and well when i left. that's my story and i'm sticking to it! one more thing....christy clark and i are the best thing that's happened to capital city motorcycle club in years! it's about time you got some good looking women on board!

quote for the day:

"If you observe a really happy man you will find him building a boat, writing a symphony, educating his son, growing double dahlias in his garden. He will not be searching for happiness as if it were a collar button that has rolled under the radiator."

W. Beran Wolfe

prayer requests:

terry salyers (my sister) - her mammogram came back abnormal and she goes in for more diagnostics on monday. she's very nervous about this, as our mom's sister has battled breast cancer. terry is not only my sister, by my very best friend!

laura pascuzzi (my motorcycle friend from iowa) -her mammogram also came back abnormal and she goes in for more diagnostics tomorrow. laura's mom died from breast cancer, so you can imagine how concerned she is. laura was behind me on her motorcycle when i was hit in july. for years, we've taken a big, yearly motorcycle trip together. i suspect we've seen 1/3 of the country via motorcycle together.

trish scarberry (ironton post) - her mom passed away unexpectedly. she was one of my many great secretaries in district 9.

mary taylor (my stepmom) - as i stated earlier, she had a knee replacement a while back, then recently fell and broke her hip. the dr's were concerned that she had had a stroke and possibly broke her ankle. praise God, she didn't have a stroke nor did she break her ankle. they believe she may have a significant b12 deficiency, which could have caused some of her symptoms. she is preparing to enter rehab.

woody triplett (trish's grandfather) - he is suffering from melanoma in his lungs and is going through chemo now.

vicki moreland (my friend from middletown) - her knees are deteriorating and she needs knee surgery. she is concerned that she can't be off work for that long, as she's a single mom raising 2 teenage kids. she is such a good person who is experiencing some pretty tough times right now.

more later.....continue to be blessed!

lisa - 1095

november 29, 2007 - i will lift my eyes to the hills....

2007-11-29T10:25:00.000-05:00

top of the morning, friends.....

i hope you had an opportunity to enjoy yesterday's beautiful weather! i worked in the yard all afternoon. a friend and i mowed, trimmed, and planted a new mum. i couldn't believe that i was mowing - probably for the last time of the season - on november 28, 2007! of course, all my work was done on my tractor, as i'm still non-weight bearing. my yard is just as green as can be! while i was out mowing, a trooper from the statehouse stopped by to visit. i was shocked that he even recognized me, all bundled up. it was very nice of him. after mowing, i built a fire in my portable fireplace and had lunch there.

i have a dr's appointment today with my plastic surgeon. i hope he takes the stitches out of my hand from the last surgery, and allows me to bear weight on that hand.

my next appointment with my bone dr doesn't happen until next week. i can't wait. i hope he removes the staples and stitches so i can actually get that leg into the shower again!

unfortunately, my stepmom, mary fell yesterday and broke her left hip. it was the same leg that she just recently had a knee replacement on. she's having surgery today at 10:30am, where the dr. will put in a plate and screws. please keep her in your prayers.....she's been through alot lately - and so has my dad. i'm sure he's had his belly full of hospital visits between mary and me!

i talked with retired major fred goldstein this week. he's finally back to work after his knee replacement and seems to be doing well.

please keep patrol historian michele vaughan in your thoughts and prayers as well. she and her daughter lost everything to a fire recently. they need EVERYTHING! if you'd like to donate, please contact connie willbarger, OSP operations 614-466-2300.

laura mourne - thanks so much for the postcard from the biltmore! that area is definitely one of my favorite places in the world!

kathy mckinniss - good hearing from you! i know exactly the song you're talking about! i like it too. sometimes songs can really say what we're feeling, can't they? i'm looking forward to watching the "closer" marathon too!

quote for the day:

"We need to understand that thoughts are tools.
Are we using them as productively as we can?
Are our thoughts serving us well, or are we their victims?
It's up to us."
Dr. Tom Morris

i hope you have a blessed day....

lisa - 1095

november 25, 2007 - better is one day in Your house than a thousand elsewhere....

2007-11-25T18:10:00.000-05:00

top of the evening, friends....

well....here we are at the end of another weekend....i don't know where time goes!

the above picture was taken on halloween night - obviously before my last surgery. we had just passed out the last of the candy and eaten the last bowl of chili spaghetti that my sister so graciously made.

on thanksgiving, i wasn't feeling up to traveling to my sisters for dinner, so my friends and i had a roasted chicken and a multitude of vegetables. no bread, noodles, or mac & cheese due to my new gluten-free diet - thanks to finding out i am highly allergic to wheat, rye, barley and oats. it's rough, but i'm adjusting. i guess i've had this condition (celiac's disease) long before my crash, but after the crash, it was highly accelerated, causing me to be sick almost everyday. now that i know what to eat, i'm eating well and finally putting some weight back on.

on friday, i had an appt. with my regular dr. who sent me to mt. carmel west to have dopplers done on both legs to ensure i didn't have any blood clots. thank God there weren't any! i'm still extremely sore and have trouble standing and using crutches, although it's getting easier each day. i have to say that this surgery was the roughest thus far.

i will be continuing my hand therapy, but my leg therapy will stop until i get the green light from my bone dr.

my sister terry and mary came up this weekend as well as trish and di. we all had a feeding frenzy and watched movies. we ate at o'charley's and applebee's and watched "grumpier old men," (which reminded me of my relationship with dirty di) "bug," and "hostel." i think these guys are trying to make me fat and lazy! actually, after the first week, i finally started working out again with my hand weights. i didn't feel much like it last week. di is once again on one of her famous "lose weight quick" diets. she says she's lost 5 lbs for "the biggest loser" contest at work, but frankly, i don't see it....lol

on a good note, mary hopes to return to work this week, if she gets the clearance - but she's still on crutches, so it would have to be light duty.

thanks to registrar mike rankin, BMV for the beautiful white roses! they were delivered late friday. that was extremely thoughtful and they really lifted me up.

gary & annette humphries - hey guys! thanks so much for writing and for not giving up motorcycling! i need to live vicariously through you guys right now...lol i'd love to hook up with you guys and talk sometime soon. i'll send you an email once i'm a little more mobile and you can either come over or we can meet for dinner. i hope all is well in your neck of the woods. good hearing from you!

alvin cox - yes, we've been friends for years, and how surprised i was to see you after all this time. i pray your back surgery went well and you continue to improve. did you ever sell your beautiful motorcycle? we do need to get together too over a cup of coffee or tea. good hearing from you as well!

laura mourne - thank you so much for your continued prayers and support. i was, however, disappointed that there was no question in your blog entry. i look so forward to assisting with your insatiable quest for knowledge...lol

wendy forbes - thank you too for your never-ending supply of cards and well-wishes. you continue to boost my spirits more than you know. give alan a big kiss and hug for me. we need to have another movie night!

terri west - NOOOOOO KAILEEEEEEE!!!!! i'll do whatever i need to, to ensure that nightmare doesn't happen again!! don't give my sister any ideas! thanks to you too for always being so thoughtful to write and lift me up.

jen stabler - thanks for calling and checking on me on thanksgiving morning. i hope your trip and visit with your family was great. don't spend any of that "left-right-center" money...i need an opportunity to win some of it back!

boo & lee - you guys are too much! i appreciate you calling. terry said that when i was in the hospital, you checked on me every day. i'll be down to visit just as soon as i'm able. God bless you!

dale & naomi - i love you guys too! i hope your holiday was great and that you were able to spend it with your family. i apologize for not calling you back the other day, but it's been a rough week. we'll get together soon.

tina - sorry for not updating the blog sooner or calling you back. like i said, it's been a tough week, but every day gets better. hope all is well in your world. i'll call you soon.

more later...until then....be blessed!

lisa - 1095

november 21, 2007 - He gives me strength and endurance...

2007-11-21T12:41:00.000-05:00

top of the afternoon friends.....

i got home yesterday afternoon from the hospital. the dr's kept me a while longer than expected due to my hemoglobin and blood pressure being so low, combined with the fact i was running a bit of a fever. i've received 11 blood transfusions thus far in this journey, which has it's own risks, but they sure have made me feel better. i can't yet stand without assistance, as the dr. had to be extremely "agressive" in harvesting bone and marrow from my right leg to use in my left one. they had to put 120 cc's of bone in my left leg, which was the most my dr. has ever done. he indicated that he's only done 10 of these procedures, so he wasn't sure my right leg would initially support me. it is extremely weak and feels like i've been hit by a car (oh, yeah...i was! lol). my left leg has been placed in a brace that will give my knee support, yet allow it to bend 90 degrees. my left hand is a bit sore from the dr's removing a plate, but that pain is minimal compared to my legs.

here are a couple of pictures post surgery. they had to open up my "flap" from my previous surgery to do the bone grafts. one pic is of my hip where they entered to harvest the bone and marrow from my right femur.

mary and sgt. rike both called me at the hospital to lift me up. my dad and my nephew michael came up friday, as well as terry and dianna. trish has continued to help me - otherwise i'd have been in a care facility long ago. wendy and others have continued to send cards and prayers, not to mention the multitudes of visitors i've received! elzie and captain dicken continue to check on me and keep me laughing. thanks to everyone who reads and writes to the blog...you've really been my window to the world and have helped me tremendously! i've got such a great support system of family and friends.

if i can stand long enough, i'm going to go and get cleaned up and try to enjoy some of this weather via my borrowed electric wheelchair (thank you, mary & sharon!).

i have two links i'd love you to see. one is about determination. the other is about Christmas. they both touched me and i hope you enjoy them:

http://www.maniacworld.com/Phone-Salesman-Amazes-Crowd.html

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IAckfn8yiAQ

more later....thanks for everything and happy thanksgiving, friends. continue to be blessed!

lisa - 1095

November 20, 2007

2007-11-20T15:12:00.000-05:00

Lisa has been released from Grant Hospital and will be resting at home. She is still very tired and says she feels worse this time than any other time - spirit is strong but body is still weak. She hopes to be feeling much better by next week, and up to taking calls and having company again. She appreciates your continued thoughts and prayers.

Di

november 18, 2007 - I will never leave you, nor forsake you...

2007-11-18T19:48:00.000-05:00

top of the evening, friends....

well, here i sit at grant hospital on sunday night. i was hoping i'd be released today, but i had rough night last night and a rough day today. my hemoglobin was low and i was running a little bit of a fever, so they decided to keep me. where they harvested the bone from my right thigh as well as where they fixed 2 small grafts in my left calf were very sore. unbelievably, where they fixed the 10 inch piece in my left thigh didn't hurt too incredibly bad. i did, however, feel like i'd been hit by a car....lol - no pun intended! hopefully, tomorrow, they'll release me.

lt. colonel finamore and major booker came to see me after the surgery. i guess i was very talkative and cordial, but i don't remember much about the visit. the drugs they gave me were intense. i was told it would take me 1 1/2 hours to get out of recovery. i wasn't out of recovery until over 4 hours passed! then, i still slept most of the day.

colonel collins and his wife, s/lt. collins also visited today. they were thrilled about the bucks win.

major atkeson, his wife suzie, and their son luke also visited today after church.

major brooks as well as dxs dale robirds checked on me just before i entered the hospital.

i really appreciate everyone who has called, visited, or simply sent up a prayer for this surgery. while i'm very, very, very sore....this is my first step in walking again. i hope to come back after the first of the year in some limited capacity...then full duty as soon as i can.

thanks to dianna for updating the blog and visiting this weekend. she's been a great friend. i think that she raided my fridge!

my sis terry and my dad as well as my nephew michael were up as well for part of the weekend. they worry about me way too much!

thanks to everyone who has checked on my dogs and cat, as well as house-sat for me. you guys are lifesavers!

also, thanks to the wonderful staff at grant hospital. they have been great and have catered to my every need. of particular note are nurse mary, nurse lashalle, and nurse connie - they are stars!! i'm not, however, looking forward to my visit by the physical terrorists tomorrow...lol

also thanks to sgt. scott rike who has been such an inspiration to me. he was forced to take a disability retirement a while back, due to a serious, and life-threatening condition. but thank God, he has been able to return to full duty. faith and sheer determination prevailed! above is a picture of his really cool tattoo, which depicts his faith, his love for his wife, as well as his love for the patrol. scott...you're my hero. oh, yeah...and congratulations on the fact that you and your wife are expecting!

hopefully, i'll update you folks from home tomorrow. but until then....continue to be blessed!

lisa - 1095

November 16 9:10pm

2007-11-16T20:57:00.000-05:00

Lisa is resting well after 4 hours in recovery. She was talking and eating that delicious hospital food before I left. They took both plates out of her arm and fixed some of the mobility problems with her knee. When she feels better she will be back on the blog with more to tell and more of those lower case letters you've all grown to know and love. I've decided to camp out at her pad with Chrissy, Sissy, and Amy and keep them company. They don't talk back (ha ha). Besides she has more food in her fridge;)

Dirty D

November 16, 2007 10:30am

2007-11-16T10:36:00.000-05:00

Lisa went into surgery at 7:30am this morning and is now in recovery. The surgeon said everything went well and she will be in recovery for the next couple of hours. Her family and Trish are there with her. The surgeon was impressed with her positive attitude and said that can make such a difference on the final outcome. She will be kept at Grant for a couple days. Your continued prayers are appreciated, she is so anxious to return to work and a normal life. We will keep you all updated on the blog, and when she's feeling up to visitors.

D