Thursday, April 16, 2009

Update # 133

28 months

Good Evening,

Life is good.  I have not had to send an update since January!  Jeff is doing well.  In fact, the first day of Spring, I mentioned to him how he made it through the winter season without pneumonia.  For that we are very thankful.  Maybe getting past that 2 year mark is making a difference.  We continue to pray it does.  The end of March, Jeff had a 24 hour bug of some sort and only had to miss one day of work.

Jeff and Meridith were able to take their honeymoon the second week of February down to Disneyworld.  They had a wonderful time and especially enjoyed the warm weather with no snow.  (This year's snowfall made it to the #7 spot of Iowa's top 10 -- last year made it to #4.)  Their busy work schedules and most times, opposite work hours, can be hectic but I think they are happy with married life.

Friday, April 10th was Jeff's last day at Starbucks.  An email was sent to inform everyone who worked less than 12 hours per week, they would be laid off the end of March.  Jeff's weekly hours were always sporadic so he was prepared for that pink slip.  He did not receive one but was told 2 weeks later that he would have to be laid off.  For scheduling purposes, Jeff and his manager agreed that the 10th would end his work time at Starbucks.  Jeff was there for 11 months and did enjoy it.  Although, the sunny drive thru window would bother his eyes so that part he will not miss.

All employees at the TV station were told in February they would need to take 5 furlough (unpaid) days.  They have now again been told to take another 5 furlough days.  When people are taking some of their time off, Jeff is able to pick up a few hours filling in their spots.  

Today was Jeff's eye appointment in Iowa City.  A new computer system overbooked patients so Jeff did not see Dr. Wagoner.  The associate, who sees the patient before Dr. Wagoner comes in, told Jeff he could wait to see him but it would be a long wait.  Jeff's appointment was already late in the day and Jeff felt it was not necessary to wait.  The associate had already said Jeff's eyes looked very good.  He told Jeff to return for a normal 3-month check-up.  Jeff has an appointment for July 23rd.

June 22nd is Jeff's StL appointment with Dr. DiPersio.  We already checked and the Cardinals are not in town so no game for us!  We do hope to stop by Cardinal Glennon and see our family there.  

Ken and I keep busy with church and school.  Easter morning service was spine tingling with choir, trumpet, and the joyous resurrection of Christ.  The church's annual spaghetti supper is tomorrow.  Last night, we ladies made 140 pounds of hamburger into sauce.  Tonight I made several cakes for the dinner.  We are doing Achievement tests at school and have only half of 4th quarter to complete the year.  It will be here quickly.

Spring is beginning to bloom in our yard and through the town.  Things look lovely and the sunny, warm weather is most welcomed.  We hope each of you made it safely through the winter months and will have a wonderful springtime.  Our prayers include you all and for Jeff's continued good health.  We thank God for His blessings which He showers on us and you.  We cannot express enough our deep thanks to you for love and support.  I'll email after Jeff's June appointment.

love,

Marcia