Thankful for Mathew

Mat you have been such a wonderful addition to our family.  Terry and I are so thankful for the love and care you give to our daughter and our grandchildren.  

We've watched you in your practice and hear accolades from your colleagues of the compassionate, caring physician that you are.  As well, those who work for you have such wonderful things to say about the support you give to them. 

We know your dedication to cardiology -- equal only to that  dedication to your family.

We see you come through the door exhausted from a very long 24-36 hour shift and see you change gears and become "Daddy!!!!" to your three little Goodletts!.  Evidence of that is the adoring look in their eyes as they sing silly songs and play with you and experiencing your undivided attention.  

You and Bethany have built a strong and loving family.  You are teaching Campbell, Sydney and Jack to give back already.   

There's always a lot of action at the Good House and that is a tribute to the life pace you set for your children.  I remember early your mantra to Campbell "You can do it, you can do it, put a little power to it.

Your inner strength is the depth of your love and care for others coupled with your generous heart.

Thankful for Marshall

You've always been the inquisitive, deep thinking, mischievious son that kept us in stitches or asking questions.  We never know where you're coming from -- but it's always a blend of your dry sense of humor and deep sensitivity for others.  

Marshall I'm so thankful for the hard working man that you are.  Whether it was tackling those horrendous medical school tests every six weeks, working your first job as a bag boy at IGA (and all the QT hours) or mastering the drums. You earned an A & P license at Tech, got your private pilot's license at a young age, you have been published many times.  Just like when you were young, you put your whole self into a project.

You've not been afraid to dream. You put effort into those lofty ideas and brought them to life.
Nothing seemed to hold you back -- you have made goals and achieved them -- you have always been pursuing a good end -- whether it was the Naval academy -- cutting an album -- sports or your career goals in medicine.

But what makes this momma heart proudest is that you are still the same caring, sensitive, loving man as the young boy I raised.  You bring that dimension to medicine.  That's what makes you the wonderful doctor that you are.

Watching you with Clara gives me such joy -- knowing your love for children -- she's one lucky little girl to have you for her Daddy.

Thankful that you call me Mom.



e.

Thankful for Bethany

To say Bethany is a delight is an understatement.
This woman lights up a room with her smile and her contagious laughter.  She's the optimistic - "you can do this" gal.
She is the patient mom who gives her children stability and security by helping them know first that they are loved and second that "mommy's got this." while they grow and develop in the ways best for them.  They know that Mom will stand by her rules - giving them that hedge of protection.

In her children I can see parts of her as a child --
The strength and strong will of Campbell - she would set her goals and work hard to achieve them
.
The cuddling loving nature of Sydney - S wags her baby everywhere and talks to it in sweet tones like I hear B talk to her kids

The sweetness and impishness of Jack - He's ready for action as was Bethany.  She started each day with "what are we going to do today, Mom?"

Bethany can take a maddening mom day and find something funny in it to tell later.  Like the Bell's she can tell a great story.
When she's faced trials in her life and Bethany relies on her deep faith to work it through.  She equips herself with as much knowledge as she can on an issue and makes careful decisions. 

She's the one I bounce things off of to see if it'll fly.

She's my "party" girl who loves to celebrate everybody's sucesses and holidays at her house having every detail covered and every single person's needs are met.
Through this recent ordeal of their house fiasco -- she would say, "it is what it is".  "just think - we'll have something nice when this is all over"  "so many people all over the world don't have what we have"-- she even convinced her kids that eating on a table cloth on the kitchen floor was an adventure  like camping out when the kitchen was all but gutted.

God blessed us richly when He opened doors for you to move back to Tulsa, sweet baby girl!
Your Dad and I are so proud of you.
We thank Him for bringing you into our lives 35 years ago.

Thankful for Terry

I remember when I first met Terry he was preaching at a youth revival at a camp -- I prayed Lord, "I want to marry a man like that."  Eighteen months later he became our youth pastor and he tells the story he looked out from the pulpit and saw me and said to himself that he was going to marry me. (something about I looked like an angel???)
We've been a team for 43 years -- 45 if you count our years of dating -- when you date a youth minister -- the whole Church youth group is your chaperone.  The power of our team has been surely been given a work-out these past few months.
This man gives me unconditional love --insight -- another way of looking at things -- and has shown me the world as we've traveled all over it with him speaking.
 I loved parenting with him and GRANDPARENTING is a blast. (do they still use that word?)  Even when his rheumatoid pain is high -- he finds so much joy in being with and playing with our kids - he calls them good medicine.

He's the Dad who built a play house in a converted den from our garage that had a space underneath for a bed for our guests.  He used old boards from a stadium to make a play house for Bethany and Marshall when they were in elementary school.
He could make up songs and silly stories and keep our two engaged on long trips - he loved our trailer camping and we were able to be on lots of those long trips.
It's not just our kids -- but woven into our ministry years has been different ministires to children we did together.
In the late 70's he was a Bus Minister to 300+ black kids from Memphis' inner city.  He's built a submarine for a learning centers-- devised a plan for a Fort Adventure --enjoyed the ranch theme that two of our men at church put together for our Life Park kids were involved in a kids' Adventure week at another Church.  We have enjoyed our work with Kids University since 2012.
He has a pink gorilla outfit from his days of leading a girl's chorus -

This weekend, I saw it again -- as "Goobers" the Gorilla came out of hiding and showed up at the grandkids -- Jack cried -- Sydney ran screaming for her momma and Campbell backed up as she was saying, "Pappa . ? .? ."  Later he passed out candy with me to our neighborhood trick or treaters-- 
Parents yelled from the street how much they loved our outfits --  
A mom had us pose with her trick or treaters for a picture 
and one little guy on his way down the drive, yelled back,

"I love you Gorilla!"

I do too!!!!

Thankful - Jesus

Today is what was called "All Saints Day" in the previous centuries.  When I was 9 my grandmother had a stroke in Church and died later that day.  (Having said years before - she wanted to go first and fast)
On that day in 1959 she joined the Saints around the throne.

Today is the beginning of my THANKFUL MONTH -

I am sitting in the quiet of my den and thinking back over the previous 11 months with full knowledge  and a heart full of gratitude for all I have to be thankful for.

J.O.Y.  Jesus On my journeY -- Jesus giving me strength.  Jesus in the lives and love of so many people who cared for my needs daily.

Two weeks ago when I was having my weekly doctor visit - a seasoned seventy-year old, Dr. Cibola,  was taking the place of Dr. Nyugen, my radiation doctor.  He was talking about the connection of the mind - our spirit and our body and how they communicate to each other in the healing process.  I said, the faith component has been a strong force in my life of healing.  At this point he visually relaxed and asked - "WHAT DO PEOPLE DO WITHOUT JESUS?"  and then shared how if he lived our died he got to be with Jesus.
At that point we swapped our faith stories.  Another sign that Jesus had led me to a great place of medical help and hope.

Refreshed and Renewed

The week stays busy -- and then on the weekend - I get to catch up with what really matters -- MY FAMILY and CHURCH.  

Clara & Daddy sharing some "You and Me Time"

Needing some rocking and cuddle time with this little gal.  Our CO kids are transitioning so well into parenthood.

Terry and I got to have the three little Goodlets yesterday for a play day while Bethany and Mat were in CA for his medical conference.

They are in such capable hands with Bethany McCloud and her sister, Hannah -- but we wanted to give them a break and have a play date.  It's at these times when I look into the face of any of my four grandbabies that I get anchored -- knowing what the true essence of life is.  Capturing these moments are such wonderful memories makers for us and for them.

Papa did Preschool Pumpkin Patch this week with Campbell's Redeemer Covenant class of "Frogs"
He jumped at the idea to do this with her for some special time together and to have a lunch date.
She got to ride a horse for the first time, feed the critters and go with Papa to Chick Fil A.  True to form for T, they made up silly songs about eating chicken on a bun, having fun.
I love grandparenting with that man!

Campbell making her "thank you" leaves for this year's Thank-You tree.  Feeling a little tender as she was really missing mom and Dad -- they were first on her leaf.

Jack discovers the toy box and was delighted at what he found

We got grins all day from this little guy -- 
what a happy camper when his sisters are near

Sydney was all about make believe this weekend and would play for the longest talking to all her little people in her "barn"house.

16 DOWN and 12 TO GO!

Friday was my 16th radiation --

On Tuesday I passed the halfway point --  12 more to go -- just 2 weeks and 2 days!!!! Then a couple of months and my last surgery!

I'd be even one further -- but had to miss on Thursday when I lost my car keys and couldn't leave school until Terry brought me up a key.  Seems like I'm always in a rush -- to get to a treatment, leaving school ahead of the student drivers. 

When I start to make my "Thankful List" this November top of my list -- and for that matter every day -- 

I am so thankful for God's grace in healing me from Cancer. 

This time last year - I had no clue -- just a sore lump in my chest -- I was awaiting another mammogram - that was to take place in November -- but had NO WORRIES.

December 2nd I got a diagnosis that rocked our world -- but in all of it I saw God's provision, His timing and His direction. 

I'm a blessed woman.  

I AM A HEALED WOMAN!

Sydney Kate Good

Sydney Kate 
Your's is the last birthday of the year and you couldn't wait -- you've wanted every day to be YOUR day and yesterday it was!

You came downstairs at 6:00 am singing Happy Birthday to yourself -- not knowing mommy and daddy were sitting on the couch waiting for you.

All day when someone called you sweetie or cutie-pie -- you reminded them you were "the Birthday Girl and you'd flash that "I'm the star of the show" smile.

Pappa and I hurried home from Texas to be able to celebrate with you.  Papa is a favorite with your little buddies.

With your mommy's kitchen still in shambles -- she insisted that it was going to be a great party for a special little 3 yr old.

Your little friend, Olivia came to celebrate with you.

You were the laid back baby and toddler -- always ready for bed -- you'd get baby and blankie and stick your thumb in your mouth and be off to dreamland in no time. 

Your cuddles are oooh so sweet!

You have been the one with the sweet little smile - singin' from the back seat- lovin' life and and watching your big sister for cues.  We love seeing what your curiosity gets you into.

You make up songs about your baby brudder -- and are proud of his accomplishments.




You wag "Baby" every where you go and often times the rest of us have to babysit her while you play.  Just like you're never far from Baby -- you always keep mommy in sight.

Papa is your best buddy and always ready to play jumpy, jumpy --
give elephant rides or ride you on his shoulders

You have your own fashion sense and your mommy is smart in that she let's you express yourself.  Here you are getting yourself dressed for the 5K last month. . . still sporting that Doc McStuffin bandaid from your "boo boo" the night before.

You went upstairs to find your supergirl cape to help you solve a puzzle. . . 

These pictures capture some of our favorite times with you.  They can't begin to say how blessed we are to have you in our lives.  

Growing . . .

Clara turned  7 weeks yesterday and I just have to post these new pics her momma sent us!  I so wish we could be there!

Our Story

The other night at bedtime – we were reading Bible stories and Campbell said,  

“I want to write a Bible story and have Parker and I in it, playing in Heaven.” 

The Bible stories are so real to her and she lives between the eternal and the now so much of the time as she relates what she just learned in Sunday school. That night, when she saw the Acts 2 story of the apostles with flames of fire on their heads - speaking in other languages -- She said --

 "I want fire on my head, too -- I don't know French and I want to to speak it."

Sydney came home from preschool with this picture of Noah  the other day – when her momma asked her what it was – she said --

"It's Papa -- he didn't have a nose or eyes or head and I rainbowed Him one"

This thought has been buzzin' around in my head for the past 3 weeks -- 

What if God were still writing the Book and my story was in it??? 

Growing up in Church we used to sing the old song
“this is my story—this is my song”

REALLY?  

. . . in black and white for the thousands of generations to read??

I like those stories of faith you find in Hebrews 11 –

BUT When you look at the OT people – they were people just like us --- the good the bad and the ugly of their lives it’s all there.

I can identify with those less than perfect people in the Old and New Testament –

What I like is that Jesus takes our stories and finishes them -- HE covers our story with HIS grace --

It's like Heb. 12 calls him "the author and perfector" of our Faith.

I'm countin' on that!!!

Sleepover

I love that verse in Rev. 2 or 3 to "do the things you did at first".  That's sort of what we've had when the girls come over for a play date recently.  They have to do everything they used to do  just to make it real. 

Jack joined us in the morning - as I'm a little better at keeping up with this busy boy!  He always has that precious grin.














Campbell and Sydney have been asking for a sleepover since first of July.  Recently they have been saying, "Nana, I think your boo, boo is better and it's about time for a sleepover" Yesterday we finally did it!   My energy is BACK!  I am feeling as good as I did before things started in early December.

IT was a fun day . . . 

Lunch at Chick Fil A

shopping at Wal-Mart

                                                           Time in the sand castle

PUMPKIN DECORATING - C decided to trace her shoe on the pumpkin????  not sure why? 

Papa built us a fire in the old smoker and we made s'mores outside before baths.

Our morning ritual of hot cocoa as soon as we wake up.  They loved using their momma and uncle Marshall's cups

. . . 
....... I love the SWEET BED TIME ROUTINES ---
stories, prayers, a bunch of hugs and lots of questions --
S:  I just have one question--- why do I have to go to sleep? said one tired little 3 yr. old.
C: "Nana, why is it so much fun to come to your house?"  

WOW kid, that'll get you another invite REAL soon.

I can't wait until this little gal can come visit Nana and Papa for sleepovers

Clara's hospital visit - daddy has had some LONG days.

GOD Talk

Sydney has prayed to go to preschool for almost a year.  On the first day she walked in the door, turned around to her mother and said, "LEAVE"!

Friday night we were sitting around our kitchen table and I asked her, "Sydney, did you go to preschool yesterday?"

S:  I did and God was there.

J:  Did HE talk to you?

S:  Yes.


So on yesterday as the girls excitedly got together in the car and caught up with each other, 
Campbell asked Sydney,  "Was God at preschool today?"

S:  No.

C:  Where was HE?

S:  He was up in Heaven coloring!

I want to live today knowing HE is up there tuned in to my activities -- like Sydney feels HIM with Hers.

Happy One -- ONE MONTH Today!!!

Clara's keeping her dark hair  -- proud g'ma & g'pa

It Takes A Village

Terry's words at all the help and support of the 5K Susan B. Komen was "It takes a village!"
My "village" turned out to walk, push the double seater bob stroller, buy a shirt, or made a donation.
Some of my teacher friends wore their "Joy for Jan" shirts on yesterday.

Wasn't sure I could make it the whole way.  .  . put on my big girl socks I got from my sister-in-law, Char, and headed out.




When your 5 yr. old granddaughter is walking the first mile holding your hand --you kinda have to suck it up and keep moving!!!

On the way home, Campbell told her Momma, "I think Nana won that race."  We're all winners sweet baby girl, if we can stop this dreaded disease to protect your momma and you and Sydney Kate and Aunt Katie and Baby Clara!!!
I know that's what your Grammy and I want from this. . .

Having friends along the route to talk to --Pam with a hip that is fragile - painful - --Marianne  an 18-month survivor -- my 3 little "Goodletts" and their momma, her friends, Cori and Heather and lots of our Church family who wore shirts and walked -- Ron and Cheri -- thank you bunches!!!

Love this gal!  We've watched her grow into a beautiful woman.  Cori's always been a spark of enthusiasm and lots of laughter!  I so loved being able to catch up with her this morning



Yeah Cademon for running 3 miles with your daddy at the early morning run!!!

Cademon got 2nd place in his division

I loved it,  -Roman doing the walk with his Aunt Renatta -- the day of his birthday party!!!!  WOW

And then from behind came our 3 Obert-thornes with their momma -- Yea -- Rey, Luke and Kennedy it was so good to see you all!

!!

I got to walk and talk for a short trek with Stephanie a young mom I have been praying for -- and she for me.  We share a mutual friend, Cassie who has kept us both informed of the other person's progress.  It was great to be able to meet her!  She's kickin' it!!!

Pit time for the crew!!!  Momma was armed with lots of snacks.  Part of the way momma was pushing all three and uphill at that!

Crossing with my fav #1 Cheerleader -- she planned and organized this whole day!!

Close to the finish line was Mondo, Leeca, her parents, Mike and Neta and their extended family.  Just the push I needed to make it across the finish line!

Our little "Goodletts" make it all GOOD!  

My village, as you've heard me say before, is made up of sooooo many special people who each in their own way have lightened our load.  You make me laugh -- you bring me joy!

I got a "good job grandma" text from Clara yesterday afternoon!