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Trash - LeapDay 2020 4:160:00/4:16
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Immigrant Day 2:500:00/2:50
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Miracle Clip 0:200:00/0:20
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Enjoy Every Sandwich 2:550:00/2:55
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Don't Give In 2:420:00/2:42
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Devil 3:090:00/3:09
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Beltway of Life 2:090:00/2:09
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the Amazing Zelda 2:210:00/2:21
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Rainbow Bridge 1:570:00/1:57
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10,000 Pictures 2:570:00/2:57
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the Stand 2:150:00/2:15
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the Ballad of 2 Kids 2:040:00/2:04
Blogs
Stopped by BWI Security May 2006 A funny thing happened on the way to visit my parents in Florida..... I was going thru security @ BWI Airport in Baltimore and I placed my carry-on bag and my travel guitar on the conveyer belt for scanning and then I walked thru the scanner. While I was putting my shoes back on, I saw my carry-on bag come out of the scanner, but I didn't see my guitar. Next thing - I hear a voice on the loudspeaker say "the person with the guitar must play a song before they leave the area". I figured I was hearing things, then I hear again - "the person with the guitar must play a song before they leave the area". Then my guitar comes out of the scanner. When I went over to pick up my guitar a guard came over and told me that I had to play a song before I could leave. Now I'm thinking, what song should I play because this is most likely the largest room I'll ever play. So I take my guitar out of the case and I play "The Ballad of Jed Clampett". Security came to a stand still while everybody watched and listened - they even joined in on the "Black Gold, Texas Tee" lines. When I finished I was greeted by loud applause. I packed up my guitar and waved goodbye to the guards and went on my trip to Florida with a fond memory. Two final thoughts: 1. Isn't it great that the security people were making the experience a little lighter. 2. Somewhere there is a security film of me playing guitar at BWI. Be Happy and Healthy. Think Peace.
Kitty Genovese I wrote this song several years ago, and when I played the demo for my wife Cari her first response was "I know the title - It's Kitty Genovese". She had just finished reading an article about how more than 20 people watched, and didn't even call the police, while Kitty was beaten to death. It's amazing how well the words of the song fit the situation. It's like the songs are floating around waiting to be found. Last thought: We can't close our eyes anymore!
Cari Took the Picture used on the Back Cover of The Road of Life CD You know how when you go on vacation you always end up leaving something behind? Well I failed to list Cari Watrous in the ROAD of LIFE liner notes as taking the photo of me with my Tele and P.T. Barnum (my cruiser) on the back cover of the CD. It's a Great Picture! Thanks Car for everything.
Kitty Genovese I wrote this song several years ago, and when I played the demo for my wife Cari her first response was "I know the title - It's Kitty Genovese". She had just finished reading an article about how more than 20 people watched, and didn't even call the police, while Kitty was beaten to death. It's amazing how well the words of the song fit the situation. It's like the songs are floating around waiting to be found. Last thought: We can't close our eyes anymore!
Cari Took the Picture used on the Back Cover of The Road of Life CD You know how when you go on vacation you always end up leaving something behind? Well I failed to list Cari Watrous in the ROAD of LIFE liner notes as taking the photo of me with my Tele and P.T. Barnum (my cruiser) on the back cover of the CD. It's a Great Picture! Thanks Car for everything.
Over Fifty and Still Experiencing Firsts
On May 31, 2008 I played one of Joe Isaac's Music Matters Showcase events at Ornico Coffee in Columiba, MD. Thanks to Joe's promotion, I sold 2 Road of Life CD's. Selling the CD's was not a first, but being asked to autograph them was. Thanks folks!! Score one for my Ego! PEACE and Enjoy Every Sandwich
On May 31, 2008 I played one of Joe Isaac's Music Matters Showcase events at Ornico Coffee in Columiba, MD. Thanks to Joe's promotion, I sold 2 Road of Life CD's. Selling the CD's was not a first, but being asked to autograph them was. Thanks folks!! Score one for my Ego! PEACE and Enjoy Every Sandwich
Road of Life CD Cover Art My thanks to Joshua Abelow who granted me permission to use his oil painting "Leak" as the front cover of my ROAD of LIFE CD. Joshua Abelow is represented by branch gallery. Leak was purchased by Chloe, the owner of Branch Gallery. To see more of Josh' Art, please visit www.branchgallery.com or www.joshuaabelow.com Smile.
Cari Updates
Here are the 'Cari Updates' in chronological order... (Sorry, but I lost the formatting when I copied them) Note: Cari's accident was on Friday 11-30-09 at about 5:15 pm. I starting sending emails on 11/3, starting posting to my website on 11/6 and Cari's first post was 11/21.
Below are the emails that I've sent out already:
11/3 initial email:
Hi everyone, As some of you know, Cari got thrown from her horse on Friday and she is in Shock Trauma at University Hospital in Baltimore. First, I want to thank everyone for all their kind thoughts and prayers. I know they make a difference. Here is a quick recap to date:
Cari was riding her horse Rurik in an arena on Friday night. Rurik was spooked by a barn kitty and he took off at a wild gallop. Cari stayed on for about a time and a half around the arena and then was thrown into the arena wall and some jumps that were stored there. Thankfully the 2 folks (Christine and Jamie) who run the farm are paramedics and they were in the next barn and came as soon as I yelled for help. They called an ambulance which arrived very quickly. Cari never lost consiousness. I went with her in the ambulance to our local hospital where they did a CT scan and decided she needed to go to Shock Trauma. they tried to get a medivac helicoper, but due to the bad weather we had to go by ambulance. Cari had blood in her brain, which is being removed by an external shunt. she is scheduled for an MRI today to see if she has a fracture in her neck. she also has a fracutred shoulder. she is doing better evervyday and I'm spending lots of time with her. looks like if things go well, she'll be there for another week or so. Please pass this inforation along to others that you think might want to know. Also, please be patient if I don't repond to your emails right away. I'm sure you understnad that life is going pretty fast right now. Enjoy Every Sandwich. Love, Jim/Jamie
11/5 am
Hi Dear Friends,
Sorry for the 'mass mail' format, but thankfully Cari and I have lots of wonderful support. I'll try to update you regularly and if I repeat things from previous emails, I appreciate your patience. Also sorry about lack of spelling skills, etc. Also, I'm going to jump around a little, so hang with me.
Cari is doing a little better day by day. She had an MRI and an additional CT scan yesterday so we should know this morning if she has a fracture in her neck or not. her pain level is getting lower day by day and she is sleeping more now. She still has the shunt in her head and it is disapating the blood. there is no new bleeding. we have amazing amounts of support. I can feel the positive energy coming to Cari and me from so many directions. I know this is helping. THANKS THANKS THANKS. If you would like to send cards you can send them to our home address: 626 Oak Tree Rd. Westminster, MD 21157. Cari's friend Deb made a really good observation: Cari is Cari. She will need some recovery time, but not rebuilding. The shock trauma unit at University Hospital in Baltimore is the first and best shock trauma unit in the country. the people there create a very healing environment. A couple of Cari's nurses in particular, Liza and Laura are angels here on earth. I'm allowed to be there almost 24/7 despite visiting hours. Cari and I want to THANK YOU SOOO MUCH for all the positive healing energy coming our way and for everything you are doing. It means the world to us to know we have so many caring folks behind us. Love, Jim / Jamie
11/6 Friday a.m. Good news: Cari's MRI was negative and she does not have a fracture in her neck.
We both want to thank you all for your caring concern and all the positve energy that is coming to both us. It's really nice that everyone is making sure that I take care of myself too. I do know that I have to do that so that I can take care of Cari. I've decided that the best way to keep everyone up to date is to post all the updates on the top of my home page www.purplejim.net
Please send your well wishes/thoughts/questions to this email purplejim13@yahoo.com
Latest news: The MRI was negative and there is no fracture in Cari's neck. I just spoke to the attending nurse and Cari is doing well. She got some sleep last night, not quite as much as the night before. Rest is about the best thing for her right now. Cari is eating a little more each day which is also a good thing. My gut tells me everything is going to be OK, but we've got a road ahead of us. luckily Cari is the strongest person I know. May start PT today. I'm guessing Cari will be there another week or so. Can't accept flowers where she is, but she is enjoying the many cards that are coming in. best to send mail to: 626 Oak Tree Rd, Westminster, MM 21157. THANKS THANKS THANKS!!!! Your many acts of kindness have given me a better feeling about the world in general. It's nice to know so many people stand up and make an unbearabe situation bearable. I'll do my best to keep the website updated and I'm going to post the emails that I've already sent for those of you who have inquired. Love, Jamie / Jim
11/7 Sat. 1:30am Everyday I get so much strength from all of you. It means so much to Cari and me that so many people care so much. THANKS for all your well wishes and acts of kindness. Cari is still doing a little better. she still has pain, but it is lessening and they are doing their best to manage it. one of the next things that needs to happen is to have the drain removed from her head which we hope will be in the next day or two. She is meeting with a physical therapist everyday and also is being treated by reiki http://www.reiki.org/FAQ/WhatIsReiki.html , I'm so glad Cari is where she is - the Care level is amazing and they do it with compassion and smiles. I also want to thank all of you from the disability community for all your offers to utilize your talents for us. We'll be sure to call on you if we need to. another blessing. Cari and I send our thanks and Love to you all.
11/7 Sat. 9:00 am. I called the hospital and was told Cari had a good night and got some sleep. more updates tonight. Love to you all and thanks for everything. Enjoy Every Sandwich. Jim / Jamie
11/7 sat 10:00 pm Came home a little earlier tonight since Cari was already sleeping. the last 2 nights she didn't fall asleep until about midnight. I think she's in a little less pain. Good news is Cari walked about 60 feet up and back in the hall. It's the first time she's done that. not as good news is Cari is running a slight fever. We're still waiting for the pressure in her head to disapate to the point that she can have the draintube removed. Once that happens she'll move to a lower level of ICU. Everyday I'm impressed with the high level of care that Cari recieves. Here's a link to the University Of Maryland Hospital's Shock Trauma:
http://www.umm.edu/shocktrauma/ here's info on Reiki http://www.reiki.org/FAQ/WhatIsReiki.html
Thanks again for all of your wonderful support that you are giving to Cari and me. I'm scared to think of what it would be like if we didn't have it.
11/8 Sun 8:40 am Spoke to the nurse and Cari did get some sleep over night, but she did have some pain issues. Getting ready to head down to the hospital for the day. Cari's sister Elly is coming to see her again today. She's been a very good sister and I'm proud of her. My Dear Cousin Scott Purdy is coming down for a couple of days to help out. While I'm thinking about it, Cari and I want to thank Peggie for making sure that Cari's helmet was fitted properly. It's not only important to wear a helmet, but also that it fits properly. Hoping that you all wear your helmets when riding horses or bikes or skateboards, etc. from now on. I do understand that everyone at the Gentle Giant Barn is now wearing a helmet. Good that Good things can come out of this. Love to All, Jamie / Jim & Cari P.S. As our friend said in her card to Cari "stop horsin' around and get better" which made Cari and I laugh out load. Thanks for the laugh Kathy. Ands thanks to everyone for all the smiles.
11/9 Mon8:30 am Thanks for all your posts and messages. I enjoy sharing them with Cari. They all bring a smile to her face. Cari didn't have a great morning yesterday. She was in a fair amount of pain and she's getting a little warn out from being there (which is very understandable). I was glad when I called her Sister Elly and she came down and spent a good part of the day with Cari and things improved a lot. Cari looked much better as the day progressed and she got some more sleep. Still haven't removed the drainage tube. My cousin Scott Purdy, who is also one of Cari's childhood friends came down for a visit and really brightened Cari's day. Mine too. Again I want to say how everyday I'm impressed with Cari's care level and the amount of Loving support we are getting from so many people. THANKS. Love, Jamie / Jim & Cari P.S. Just checked with the nurse and Cari had a pretty restful night. getting ready to head to the hospital for the day.
11/10 Tues 8:30 am It's so nice to get all your wonderful posts and messages. It's great to be able so share them with Cari. Each and everyone makes her smile. Cari had a lot of pain yesterday morning and into the afternoon, but in the afternoon the Pain Management Team ( they have lots of teams) got her on pain meds 24/7 and she now has a pump so that she can take more pain med on her own. She was dong much better after that and she fell asleep earlier than most other days. I just checked with the nurse, Hope (not a bad sign) said Cari slept well over night. I'm heading down to the Hospital now. She's got another CT scan scheduled and they want me to be there with her. There still concerned about the amount of fluid on her brain. I'll let you know what the results are. My Cousin Scott is heading back home today. He really helped me and Cari in so many ways. Had a question about my names ( Jim / Jamie) - Most of our friend's that know me through Cari call me Jamie and lots of our other friends call me Jim. Again, I want to see how great everyone is being. THANKS THANKS THANKS!!!!!!
11/11 Wed 8:00 am Yet again I continue to be deeply touched by the far reaching network of friends and loved ones that are reaching out and touching Cari and me at this difficult time. The list of folks grows everyday. so many well wishes and sincere offers of help. those of you that I have asked for help - Thanks for coming through with flying colors (special thanks to Kelly for holding down the fort while she sent Scott down to help me for a couple of days). Also, those of you who have offered to help, Please know that we will call in you if and when the time is right. I appreciate your patience and know that you would all like to be actively helping. our mailbox has cards everyday and they brighten Cari's and my spirits.
Yesterday had some good news and some not so good: the good was that they got Cari's pain under control for the first time and she was able to get some rest. also good is that she has another CT Scan (they let me go with her again) and there was no change from the last one. not so good news is that Cari was confused quite a bit for most of the day which I think is a combination of the increased pain meds and a lack of sleep. After cutting back on her meds she was dong much more in touch last night. I'm hoping we can find the right amount of meds to balance the pain and confusion. They are planning on closing the valve on Cari's drainage tube again today. We're hoping that the pressure is reduced to the point where she won't require surgery to insert a permanent shunt for drainage. Specail thanks to Elly, Glen, Sandy and Deb for helping me sort stuff out yesterday and understand the roller coaster nature of this situation. Everyone keeps reminding me to take care of myself and I am. I'm eating at least 2 good meals a day and I'm getting at least 5 hours sleep a night (pretty normal for me). One more personal shout out to my dear musical friend Chris Hurley who had a minute of prayer for Cari at the Open Mic I attend on a regular basis. I wish I had the time to indiviually thank each one of you. I'll do my best over time to do that. I will say that the number of hits on my website has gone from 2 or 3 a day before Cari's accident to about 80 yesterday. One indication of many of you wonderful folks are out there. I'll try to update again after I speak to the nurse this morning. P.S. Cari has loved her visits, but I will warn you that she may not know you and she may be sleeping. Our Dear neighbors Joe and Carolyn drove all the way down yesterday and they couldn't visit with her. Their visit still meant the world to me and I know Cari will be happy when I tell her. LOVE to all
11/11 9:30 am Nurse said Cari had a good night. got some sleep. still confused, but less so. heading down to the hosptial for the day. THANKS LOVE AND PEACE
11/11 10:30 pm Got home a little earler today. Cari was sleeping pretty soundly when I left. In fact, she got a lot of sleep today, which I'm sure is a good thing. She was still a little confused, but everyone considers that to be normal under the circumstances. They closed the valve on her drainage tube this morning and it was still closed when I left tonight. Cari had another CT Scan this afternoon to see how what effect closing the valve had. I haven't heard the results yet. But Shawn, today's wonderful nurse, told me that someone had seen it, and the fact that noone came rushing over was probably a good thing. What we're hoping is that the remainder of the fluid will be obsorbed by her body. If not, then it looks like she'll have to have the permanent shunt. Hopfully we'll hear more tomorrow.
The ongoing support is too good for words. I realized in reading back through some of the earlier posts that I don't think I mentioned that Hannah (Happy Late Birthday) and Chrisitne drove Cari's car up to the hospital in Carroll County on the night of the accident so that I would have a way to get home. Then they drove it down to the hospital in Baltimore City at 11:00 pm so that I could get home from there - all without asking. Thanks to the Scotts for the cooler of goodies. Special thanks to Shannon for being 18. Just a couple examples of the kind things everyone is doing for Cari and Me. So many of you have brought smiles to our faces at the times we need them the most. I really want to thank Cari's sister Elly for taking care of me yesderday when I was at a low point. Cari and I send our LOVE to you all
11/12 Thurs 11:15 pm It's Miracle Time: They removed Cari's drainage tube today. She was able to walk out in the hall with a walker for her great P.T. Person Jill. It's still hard for me to believe, but it sounds like Cari is going to get to come home and have a Physical Therapist come to the house. At first they were discussing having her go to a Rehab Facility for a while, but instead they decided Cari would be better off at home at long as I could be there 24/7, which of course I can. I'm not sure how soon she will be leaving the hospital, but we should find out more tomorrow. Cari is still a little confused, but it comes and goes and less often. Understandable under the circumstances. I think that's one of the reasons they want to get her home. It's been almost 2 weeks that she's been there and I'm a little disoriented myself.
Yet again today I've been so deeply touched by your countless acts of kindness. So many people doing so many things to help Cari recover and to help me help her. I know all the positive energy that has been coming to us has created the Miracle that took place today. All your wonderful emails and cards and posts and positive energy are what keep Cari and I going. THANKS THANKS THANKS
I've added the song Baltimore Parts 1 & 2 to the music player since it has the following line in it The've got Shock Trauma and all the Lives that they save I was telling Shawn, one of the wonderful nurses, of which there are so many, that I had had a song played on the radio that had that line it and he wanted to hear it. So I'd like to dedicate this to Shawn and the other Miracle Workers at Shock Trauma (sorry for the quality of the recording - off the radio onto a boombox)
11/12 Thursday 8:45 am Red letter Day: Just spoke to Shawn and Cari had a good night and they are planning to remove her drainage tube sometime today. Everyone's prayers / good vibes and well wishes are paying off. I'll update tonight or in the morning. Peace and Love
11/13 Fri 9:00 am hard to believe it's been 2 weeks. Seems like yesterday, and like a year ago. I checked on Cari and she is still some confused. she is going for another CT Scan and if everything is OK then Surgery Team will sign off. Getting ready to head down for the day, but I wanted to do a couple more 'Shout Outs'. To Blair who caught Rurik and untacked him. To whoever sent Cari the Mrs. Fields Cookies with a note "I know this isn't the healthiest of food for you, but you deserve to be spoiled every so often" Somebody fess up. To Tisch who came home early from her vacation and is going to see her Aunt Cari today. To Jason and his family for the wonderful flowers. Any Kathy your flowers are still blooming too. to the Peak guys in the Field for the balloons and the Bear. To Cari's folks at MDOD for the icard so that she can get books on tape. To Mom for Loving me and her Pearl. To Elly for being a Great Sister. To Brother Charlie who drove all the way from North Carolina. For Josh who always brings a smile to his Aunt Cari's face. To Peggie, Christine and everyone who has offered to help once Cari gets home. To Miss Mary for holding my hand that first horrible night. If I didn't mention you here, it's not cause we don't appreciate everything, it's cause there are so many of you doing so many wonderful things. TYHANKS THANKS THANKS. Love and Peace and Thanks for the Miracle. Cari & Jamie / Jim
11/13 Fri 8:40pm CARI IS HOME and in her own bed!!!! Really hard to fathom. PT at home starting next week, so it looks like she is really on the road to recovery. Still some pain and confusion. But all and all pretty wonderful stuff. THANKS EVERYONE. Peace and Love, Cari (the Home version) and Jamie / Jim
11/14 Sat 12:30 pm Sorry for posting so late in the day, but I wanted to make sure Cari was getting some good rest. And she is. Sleeping in her own bed. What a wonderful turn of events. Cari was still a little confused overnight and it took her a while to get the pain in check so that she could sleep. Our 3 kitties are thrilled Mom's home, and of course Cari is thrilled to be in our Home with all our kitty children. I was able to get some sleep last night too. Strange, in a good way, to not wake up and call the hosptial to check on Cari and head to Baltimore for the day. Again, I want to say how great the level of care she recieved at Shock Trauma was. The compassion there on a person to person basis far exceeds any hosptial we've been around (and there have been many including Saint Agony (Agnus). Cari and I spent some time this morning opening and enjoying the lastest group of cards that keep coiming in. Her confusion level was very low. I think being at HOME is just the medicine she needed at this point. I was in amazement yesterday when Jill, our wonderful Physical Terroist (Jim Brady's term), knew just how hard to push. She had Cari walk down the hall with the use of a Walker yesterday and go up a few steps. When we got back to Cari's room Jill declared she was done. I asked her hopefully if we could take Cari home is a couple of days, and she answered today. I had to go home and get her some clothes (they had to cut off the clothes she was wearing at the time of the accident). Just as things have been going all along, Cari's Sister Elly and her daughter Tisch (one of our very favoriest people) showed up and stayed with Cari until I got back. As soon as we could fill out the paperwork we were on our way home. Rough trip - lots of bumps which made Cari's head hurt more. Now here we are at home.
A few of more shout outs: To Peggie and Mike who took care of getting Cari's prescriptions filled and did some shopping for us, including getting some Pot Pies which is what Cari specifically asked for. When I tried to pay them, they said just think of this as your flowers. More wonderful folks doing wonderful stuff for Cari and me. My friend Glen from work, along with his wife Lori, picked up my company car from the farm and delivered it home. To our neighbors Joe and Carolyn for bringing over a fantastic cake with a card that read 'Welcome Home Cari'. Still want to find out who sent the 3 pounds of cookies so that we can thank them. Whoever you are, Cari had one of the cookies already and I'm sure my Cookie Monster will enjoy many more or them. To Gaela for rallying the troops. To EVERYONE at Shock Trauma, including Liza, Laura, Shawn, Jill and Steve. Thanks to Susan for being an Isalnd of Peace during these rough waters. Our Dear friend Sandy and all her wonderful friends at the Church. There are so many of you who not only are praying, but gathering others to pray too. Andy, thanks for all your thoughtful posts. Our thoughts are with Miss Mary who is down south caring for her sister-in-law. Our prayers are with you. We are also praying for Miracles for all the folks still at Shock Trauma. Their family members and loved ones helped prop me up in the waiting room. Cari and I got our Miracle and we want you to have yours too.
I know a lot of you want to visit, and I know Cari wants to see you, and so do I. But for a little while I think she needs a little time to acclimate to home again. When she's ready we'll let you know. We appreciate your patience on this front. I've a lot more faith in the world than I've had in a long time. AGAIN - THANKS THANKS THANKS to everyone of you for your ongoing SUPPORT through this most difficult time. We wouldn't have gotten this far without you. Enjoy Every Sandwich. Cari and Jamie / Jim
11/15 Sunnyday 9:00 pm Wonderful News - I'm not Dreaming. Cari Really is HOME!!!! Today has been a GOOD day. We were both pretty wiped out yesterday. Lots of sleeping for both of us. Cari had a good night. Was up for about an hour with a headache in the middle of the night, but otherwise got a fair amount of sleep. We're trying to get back to a somewhat regular schedule. P.T. should start next week. Cari had her first visitor today. She visited with her sister Elly for about an hour while I got out and did some shopping. Elly's visit was to be followed by a visit from Karen and Shannon Scott, complete with Beef Stew and Yummy Rolls, but Cari was tired out and needed to crash for a while. Karen and Shannon were very understanding. I had a nice visit with them. GOOD PEEPs, to use one of Cari's terms. (BTW: she did eat some of the yummy stew and rolls before she fell asleep and I did too. MMMMMM MMMMMM GOOD). Lots more GOOD PEEPs in the world than I knew. Like ALL OF YOU READING THIS!!!!! SUPER BIG SHOUT OUT TO THE AMAZING CARI WHO WORKED SO HARD TO GET HOME TO ME! A few more shout outs: to Dan and Patti who braved the Police Line to get into see Cari at Shock Trauma, to my Friends at Peak who sent the Edible Arrangement which Cari and I enjoyed and so did the folks caring for Cari, and Donna for her sage advice. It's nice to know so many of you want to visit. And we really want to see you, but as the Rolling Stones put it "You Can't Always Get What You Want", but you all are giving us what we need. I'm sure that Cari's stamina will increase every day and we'll be able to see all of you. Thanks for your patience and THANKS FOR THE MIRACLE!!!! (Special thanks to Mom and her friend with the 44 Angels) I posted some pictures, including pictures of our Kitties, balloons, flowers, Mr. Gower and Nurse Truffle among others. I've also posted some photos from our Wedding that my Cuzbro Scott brought down courtesy of my Uncle Stew. I've put the song "Real Love" on the player since it was the song that I wrote for our Wedding. There's a picture of our dear friend Yvonne performing it. And Mom, there's a picture of Uncle Dick. Hope you enjoy every picture (and every sandwich). BIG LOVE, Cari and Jamie (Happily from HOME)
11/17 Tues 8:30 am Sorry no update yesterday. Cari slept pretty soundly from the time Elly left on Sunday until about 5:30 pm on Monday. Cari didn't get much sleep while she was in Shock Trauma, so I'm glad to see her getting some good blocks of sleep. Elly has pointed out to me a couple of times that a good day with a fair amount of activity is typically followed by a low energy day kind of like a Roller Coaster ride. I spoke to 'Home Care' yesterday and someone is supposed to contact us today about scheduling physical therapy at home. I spent most of the day catching up on some of the 'normal' chores like laundry. In a wierd way it's kind of nice to be doing some of that stuff. Cari spent a little bit of time in front of the computer last night and we watched a little bit of the Ravens game together. Cari has her passion for horses and I have my passion for music, but Cari got us Raven's Season Tickets so that we could have a passion that we share together. (Speaking of Music, Cari is singing backgroud vocals on some of the songs that are playing including 'Road of Life') Stamina and pain management are the things we're focusing on most, along with having some 'normal' activities. I can see progress everyday on all fronts. Some days more than others. We're enjoying all the food and goodies that folks have given us. BTW: if you've never had a pretzel roll you are really missing something. Thank you for all your sincere offers to help us out. I REALLY DON'T KNOW WHAT WE'D DO WITHOUT YOU ALL BEHIND US!!!! We both mostly slept through the night, and Cari is sleeping some more now.
Never too many shout outs: To Michael, one of those people who made Cari smile a bunch of times. I brought in new 'Stuffies' (stuffed animals) everyday and Michael would come in and ask Cari to introduce each one to him. Often he would say "Cute as a Button". What a sweet man. To Chris and Erik who came to Shock Trauma and promised Cari that they would make sure I was taking care of myself. To Cuzbro Scott for bringing us those 'Provisions', included the Annie's mac and cheese. To Tisch for coming back early, and just at the right moment. To Meg and Ralph for their wonderful home-made cards. To the "Miller-Moores" Cari keeps your card in bed with her and it gives her on going comfort. To Kathy for making us laugh with her "stop horsing around and get better" card. Smiles and Laughing are great medicine. To Clancy for sending Cari back to me. TO ALL YOU WONDERFUL PEEPS!!!!!
For quite a while everything was coming too fast for reflection, but I've had a few moments now to look back on things. The most important thing I see is how far Cari has come. Sometimes it's hard to see moment to moment the amazing progress she has made. It was only last Wednesday night that I was concerned that Cari was going to need to have surgery. Now here she is HOME. That night I went to the wishing fountain at Shock Trauma and tossed my change into the pool and made wishes for Cari's recovery, as well as for the recovery of everyone else at Shock Trauma. Then I went and got a cup of coffee and a slice of pizza and went back to eat by the fountain. Not long after I sat down a fellow walked up to me and said he hadn't eaten anything since 2:00 pm (it was around 7:30 pm) and asked if I could help him out. I offered him my pizza and coffee which he gladly accepted. He gave he a BIG HUG and said God Bless You. Since Cari and I had been recieving so much help and support, it felt good to help someone else (as Peggie put it: Pass it On). When I walked to the end of the hall, I looked back and the gentleman was gone. I never saw him again, but I really feel looking back on things that that moment was a turning point. We are all connected like links in a chain. One of the best things that has come out of this situation for me is that I have more faith in people than I've had in a long time. THANKS TO ALL OF YOU FOR THIS GIFT. And Thanks for all your cards, emails and posts. They brighten each day. Enjoy Every Sandwich (or slice of pizza). Peace and Love
11/17 Tues 7:00 pm It's Party Time! Awake and up and about for many hours. Less pain. Lots of firsts: Ride in the car, sent some emails and made a couple of phone calls. Also, thanks Kathy for making a house call and taking care of Cari's hair. Thanks Joe for cutting our grass and thanks Carolyn - Great Cake!! May the World Smile on Each and Everyone of YOU!!!
11/18 Wed (Day 19) 2:30 pm We both got a good night's sleep. Cari is cutting back on pain meds some. Had first visit from in-home P.T. folks today. Assesment and paperwork only. Real P.T. starts Friday. Cari's stamina is increasing day by day. Cari is resting now after over-hour visit from P.T. folks. May go for another short car ride later, we'll see. Nan, you're right: Cari does ROCK!! Peggie love the Edgar Allan Poe / Raven reference for Friday the 13th "Nevermore". Thanks to our Gentle Giant Family for their ongoing support. I hate to think of what might have happened if you guys hadn't responded so quickly that night. Also, glad to hear that everyone is now wearing a helmet when they ride. We would like to ask that ALL of you wear helmets when riding horses, bikes, skateboards, etc. THANKS FOR EVERYTHING. BTW: There's no place like HOME!!! Love and Peace, Cari and Jamie / Jim
11/18 Wed. 7:20 pm I Scream, You Scream, We all Scream for Ice Cream Not only did we go for a drive, but Cari and I went grocery shopping. She used a motorized cart supplied by Safeway. We also went to "Scoops", an Ice Cream store that we usually go to on our way home from Raven's games. The light at the end of the tunnel is not a train! Thanks all you Miracle Makers!!!! LIFE IS GOOD
11/19 Thurs 10:45 pm The Future is So Bright, I've got to Wear Shades Another GOOD DAY. In the afternoon, Cari and I went to her office in Baltimore so should could get some personal things. The folks in her office were very happy to see her. I wish I had had a camera and gotten pictures of their faces. We both enjoyed our short visit with those supportive folks. We arrived back home to find Beautiful Flowers (Thanks to "The Summers") and an Edible Arrangement (which we ate right up after admiring it - Thanks Miss Annie) on our front porch. Not long after we got home, Tisch and Elly came by and dropped off some of Tisch's wonderful home-made soup and they watched the CBS Special from 1963 - Rachel Carson's Silent Spring with Cari and I in honor of my Dad's death 2 years ago today. Cari decided to cancel Home Therapy, and instead she starts P.T. at Central Maryland Rehab where she has had P.T. before. It is also the place where she works out. And another place where the folks have been very supportive. Cari is gaining a little more stamina everyday, and the pain is lessening a little too. Can't tell you how happy I am. THANKS AGAIN TO YOU ALL FOR YOUR ONGOING SUPPORT. YOU ARE THE WIND BENEATH OUR WINGS!!!
11/20 Fri 10:17 pm 3 Weeks ago today is when this all started. And one week ago Cari came HOME. Cari had her first P.T. appointment this morning @ CMR today and it went really well. Cari does not have to use the Walker in our house anymore, but she is going to continue to use it when we go out. Cari is scheduled to go back twice a week for the next several weeks. The folks there are very nice and knowledgeable. After a quick stop at the drug store, we returned home to find 24 Pink Roses (Thanks Charlie & Todd) and more cheerful cards, and then we both napped for a while. Our evening entertainment was enjoying pizza and a movie (Enchanted - good choice Shannon) with our friends Karen and Shannon. We're both looking forward to a good night's sleep. Peace and Love
11/21 Saturday 12:30pm
Now that Jamie taught me how to post, I'm stumped for what to say. Yep, yesterday was the 3 week anniversary of being thrown and the 1 week anniversary of being home - and Dorothy and I definitely agree, there's no place like home and that's well worth repeating - there's no place like home! Although I do like getting out every day and we don't have anything planned for today so I'm going to have to make something up, possibly another trip to the grocery store as I really like riding around in the scooter. Last time some man was a tad freaked out at the sight of me, and I was even wearing a hat to cover the stiches and shaving, so I delighted myself by following him around the store - fun fun fun!
On a really sad note, I find myself afraid of horses for the first time in my life - afraid of all horses, not just Rurik, who I gave back to Gentle Giants at Jamie's request and my own good sense. I recognize that every horse can spook at any time for any reason - hense the fear. Perhaps a visit to the miniature horse farm in Gettysburg is a place to start, I don't know and really don't like being afraid. I'm open to suggestions.
For any who already have my email address, please go ahead and use it, for those of you who do not, I am setting up a special email address for the duration of my recovery - carirecovers@purplejim.net - so please keep in touch either here or at one of my email addresses - except work email which I am not yet checking. Hope to talk to you soon.
Cari
11/22 Sunday 10:45 am Another visit to the store yesterday. Cari is getting real good with the motorized cart. She is starting to get on a somewhat regular schedule. About 12 hours up and 12 hours of sleep. Ed is supposed to come to our home today and give Cari a much needed accupuncture treatment (You Da Man Ed!!!). Cari is doing some P.T. exercises at home and has appointments next Monday and Tuesday. She is still getting those wonderful cards you guys are sending. Even got a couple from Nan's dog Colby (Good Boy Colby). Boy do I have a lot to be thankful for this Thanksgiving. Cari being HOME and ALL THE LOVE AND JOY THAT YOU GUYS HAVE GIVEN TO CARI AND I are tops on the list. Peace & Love, Jamie / Jim
11/23 Monday 1:25 pm
Braved one of my worst fears today - had yet another CT scan - this one voluntarily and without sedation ... wasn't quite as bad as I feared, only lasted 3 minutes and now I have everything I need to see the doctor a week from today. Rewarded myself with a trip to Big Bob's (Bob Evans) complete with some absolutely yummy blue berry pancakes! PT today at 6:30 so I'm about to go down for a nap - highly unusual behavior for me but I'm totally stuffed and actually somewhat sleepy.
A dear friend is throwing me a b-day celebration on Wednesday, a very BIG deal as not long ago it looked like I may not make it past 48. A lot to celebrate and a lot to be thankful for - and if you are reading this, you are one of the people I am thankful to have in my life, and I am grateful for your friendship and support.
If you are reading this, Happy Birthday Debbie.
Nap time.
11/24 Tuesday 12:25 pm
It's the day before my birthday, a birthday I feel blessed to be alive and to celebrate but I am worried. Worried about my Gentle Giants family, worried they don't understand my returning Rurik to the rescue. It wasn't a decision I made lightly, I spent hours and many tears coming to it. I talked with many who love me, many who wouldn't offer an opinion until I pressed them. In the end the decision was unanymous, not all for the same reasons but we all came to the same place - I am too old to survive another fall and YES any horse can spook and be stupid at any time. It just seemed much more likely to happen with Rurik. And at this point, I am afraid of him and not just of him, of all horses big and small - in fact, anything larger than my 20 pound cat makes me nervous!
11/25 Wed 7:40 am HAPPY BIRTHDAY CARI
Roses are Pink, Viotets are Blue, Boy am I glad I get to spend this Birthday with YOU!!!!
11/25 9:45 pm I can't remember a Birthday I enjoyed celebrating more than Cari's Birthday today. I'm so thankful that she is here with me. Thanks for all your prayers and well wishes. I am sure they made this possible. Cari and I had a wonderful time at the Birthday Party the Scott's threw for her. Check out the pics of the Beautiful and Yummy Pink Cake. We had great splitpea soup and lots of pleasant visiting.
Looking forward to Thanksgiving tomorrow as we have so much to be THANKFUL for. I'm thankful that Cari is HOME and on the road to recovery. I'm thankful for ALL OF YOU WONDERFUL PEEPS. And I'm thankful for being given a better outlook on life. You all are examples of goodness in the world when I hadn't been seeing very much. THANKS
11/26 7:15 am
HAPPY THANKSGIVING
Happy Thanksgiving
To friends far and near
Happy Thanksgiving
To friends near and dear
Happy Thanksgiving
Let’s let out a Cheer
Happy Thanksgiving
Throughout the year
I can’t express the happiness and thankfulness I feel today. Words don’t seem adequate. To be spending Thanksgiving at HOME with Cari seemed like a pipedream, but thanks to all of you I’m getting ready to put a turkey in the oven. Cari and I have a tradition of listing the things we are thankful for before we have Thanksgiving dinner. I have a feeling it’s going to be quite a list this year, and at the top of the list is having friends (the real kind) like YOU. It’s easy for people to be ‘friends’ when everything is going well. Look at all the ‘friends’ Elvis had when things were good, but when things went bad his ‘friends’ all disappeared. Nice to know we have REAL FRIENDS. Hope your Thanksgiving day, and every day that follows, is filled with Great Health and Happiness and that the Joy you’ve given to Cari and me comes back to you ten-fold. THANKS, THANKS, THANKS!!!!! Peace and Love, Jim / Jamie
11/27 Friday 3:30
We are just in from the grocery store and I wish I could report another chasing but nooooooooooooooo, absolutely no one looked remotely scared and therefore wasn't worth chasing - bummer! After the grocery store we headed to the library where children's books seemed my best choice - nothing scary, fairly large print and an opportunity to relive one of the better parts of my childhood - I'm starting with Laura Ingalls Wilder's Little House on the Prairie.
Came home to find a message from my vet's office - lovely people who tried so hard with me to save/rehab Clancy and who cried with me when it wasn't possible. I have a very special place in my heart for them and it made my day to return the call and talk with both Cheryle (sp?) and with my pal "Doc". As I work toward being less afraid of horses, spending time with Doc and his horses is something I look forward too. Need to both work on the fear and on being more stable (no pun intended) on my feet. They were definitely on my list of people I was thankful for yesterday.
Cari
11/28 3:17
Too tired to say anything besides little horses aren't nearly as scary as big ones.
12/1 1:24
Afraid of tempting fate by saying its over and the fat lady has sung, so I'll just say that the stitches are out and I've been discharged from Shock Trauma to the care of my regular docs. Hard to believe that a little more than a month ago, it was 50/50 that I'd survive. Today is a VERY good day!!!
12/1 7:18 pm Happy 'Rabbit Rabbit' Day, and it is!!
Really glad that Cari had her stiches out today and that she was released from Shock Trauma's care to that of her regular doctors. Have a bunch of appointments scheduled over the next week. Cari's appointment was short and sweet. Just the kind we like. Afterward we went back up to the ICU unit and saw Cari's Wonderful P.T. person Jill. Jill was very happy with Cari's progress. Also saw our smiling friend Michael and a couple of the Doctors that had cared for Cari. Sorry we didn't get to see either of our favorite nurses Liza or Laura. It was kind of strange going back there, but it also brought home deeply how greatful I am to all the caring and talented folks that took care of Cari and me while she was there. Also reminded me of how much Love and Care we both have recieved, and continue to recieve, from all of YOU. THANKS THANKS THANKS
I'm looking to return to work on Thursday 12/10. Looks like Deb was right all along, Cari did not need rebuilding, just recovery time. Still working on pain management and stamina. Both continue to improve and I don't forsee any 'life changes' coming out of this.
Since I haven't written in a couple of days I wanted to share a couple of our small adventures out in the world. We went to the Land of the Little Horses on Saturday. We had a good time. In addition to interacting with some of the minature horses, we also mingled with a couple of donkeys that roamed around. Cari also petted a full size horse over a fence. Each of these interactions went well and I think they are good building blocks.
We also stopped and bought some apples and had lunch at the Frederick Coffee Company. Our longest stint out in the world yet. We both crashed early and slept well.
Sunday was another grocery shop and cart ride followed by a nice visit at our Home with Elly and Jim (Thanks Jim for helping me take the mattress to the basement). We finished the last of that great Pink Birthday Cake. (Yummy Yummy Karen and Shannon).
Yesterday (Monday) we made an excursion to Boyds Bear Country and did our part to stimulate the economy. It was my first visit there and it's a pretty amazing place. It's good to get out and get used to speed of the world. Lots more to process than in our Home. Another step toward getting Cari's Life Back.
Really can't say it enough times, and my words can't express the depth of our appreciation for what each and everyone of you have given us. You've given us the gift of Cari's Life back. You've given us the Miracle we both longed for and needed. And you've given us HOPE for a bright future together. In addition, You've given me more faith in my fellow man. I'll do my best to help others as you have helped us. THANKS THANKS THANKS THANKS (I CAN NEVER SAY IT ENOUGH) Peace and Love, Jamie / Jim
12/5 Sat 8:00 am When we got home on Tuesday after Cari had been released by Shock Trauma into the care of her regular doctors I came home and I was so tired I took a nap. I told Cari I couldn't understand how I could be so tired when I'd only been up for 6 or 7 hours. She said it's because I was 'off guard' and I'm sure she was right. I couln't allow myself to be tired up until then. I thought back to when Cari first came home from Shock Trauma on November 13th and how I would check on her every few minutes the first several days. I also remembered how I would walk down the hall toward our bedroom and I would hear Cari snoring. We both have snored from time to time and it would usually make the nonsnorer mad, but in this case I found myself smiling just knowing that Cari was alive and sleeping in our HOME.
Wednesday and Friday was more P.T. Cari is able to do a little more each time. Glad we decided to pass on the Home P.T. folks. By the way: when the Home P.T. people came to do their assesment of Cari our 20 pound kittie Irv kept walking back and forth between them and Cari. He won't usually even come around people, but he felt the need to protect Cari from the bad guys. Who says animals are dumb? Must be dumb people!! Cari also went to her eye doctor on Monday and found out that she has cornia damage in her eye that doesn't tear. She is going to see her specialist soon. On Thursday Cari made her first trip to see Ed and got a wonderful accupunture treatment. On Friday after P.T., we went down to Cari's office and picked up a laptop so that she can work at home, and we had nice visits with lots of good folks. Her work Peeps, like ALL OF YOU, have been, and continue to be great. Cari is starting to drive a little and it won't be long before she is driving herself around. We're planning on heading to the Open Mic at the Starry Night Bakery in Westminster tonight weather permitting. Our friend Chris Hurley who runs the Open Mic had a moment of silent prayer for Cari last month so it will be nice to show them all how well Cari is doing. And I'm looking forward to playing a few songs. By the Way: Thanks for all of your kind comments regarding my music. I've added a Christmas song, 'The Christmas Mash', which is a parody of 'The Monster Mash'. Hope the Holiday Season and Every Day fills your heart with JOY. Peace and Love, Jamie / Jim
12/11/09 Friday morning
Sorry I haven’t written in a few days. Monday we got good news on Cari’s eye from her specialist. It looks like all of the damage to her cornea will repair itself fairly quickly as long as Cari takes good care of it, and she is! After lunch, Cari had P.T.
On both Tuesday and Wednesday Cari drove herself to her appointments. It felt pretty weird to be home without her. I had left her home on a couple of occasions when I’d gone to the store, but Tuesday was the first day that Cari went out on her own.
On Wednesday we went out to dinner since Thursday was my first day back at work. Boy was it strange to get up and go to work after about 5 ½ weeks of not going.
Cari is going to a meeting this morning and then she has an appointment with Ed later. Her cold is getting better and so far I’ve avoided getting it.
Didn’t make it to open mic last Friday due to the weather, but I’m looking forward to playing at Java Grande in Ellicott City this Saturday evening. We bought a wheelchair and we’re hoping to go to the football game on Sunday.
I still can’t believe how far we’ve come and I still can’t believe how much support you all have given us. THANKS, THANKS AND THANKS. Peace and Love, Jim / Jamie
Below are the emails that I've sent out already:
11/3 initial email:
Hi everyone, As some of you know, Cari got thrown from her horse on Friday and she is in Shock Trauma at University Hospital in Baltimore. First, I want to thank everyone for all their kind thoughts and prayers. I know they make a difference. Here is a quick recap to date:
Cari was riding her horse Rurik in an arena on Friday night. Rurik was spooked by a barn kitty and he took off at a wild gallop. Cari stayed on for about a time and a half around the arena and then was thrown into the arena wall and some jumps that were stored there. Thankfully the 2 folks (Christine and Jamie) who run the farm are paramedics and they were in the next barn and came as soon as I yelled for help. They called an ambulance which arrived very quickly. Cari never lost consiousness. I went with her in the ambulance to our local hospital where they did a CT scan and decided she needed to go to Shock Trauma. they tried to get a medivac helicoper, but due to the bad weather we had to go by ambulance. Cari had blood in her brain, which is being removed by an external shunt. she is scheduled for an MRI today to see if she has a fracture in her neck. she also has a fracutred shoulder. she is doing better evervyday and I'm spending lots of time with her. looks like if things go well, she'll be there for another week or so. Please pass this inforation along to others that you think might want to know. Also, please be patient if I don't repond to your emails right away. I'm sure you understnad that life is going pretty fast right now. Enjoy Every Sandwich. Love, Jim/Jamie
11/5 am
Hi Dear Friends,
Sorry for the 'mass mail' format, but thankfully Cari and I have lots of wonderful support. I'll try to update you regularly and if I repeat things from previous emails, I appreciate your patience. Also sorry about lack of spelling skills, etc. Also, I'm going to jump around a little, so hang with me.
Cari is doing a little better day by day. She had an MRI and an additional CT scan yesterday so we should know this morning if she has a fracture in her neck or not. her pain level is getting lower day by day and she is sleeping more now. She still has the shunt in her head and it is disapating the blood. there is no new bleeding. we have amazing amounts of support. I can feel the positive energy coming to Cari and me from so many directions. I know this is helping. THANKS THANKS THANKS. If you would like to send cards you can send them to our home address: 626 Oak Tree Rd. Westminster, MD 21157. Cari's friend Deb made a really good observation: Cari is Cari. She will need some recovery time, but not rebuilding. The shock trauma unit at University Hospital in Baltimore is the first and best shock trauma unit in the country. the people there create a very healing environment. A couple of Cari's nurses in particular, Liza and Laura are angels here on earth. I'm allowed to be there almost 24/7 despite visiting hours. Cari and I want to THANK YOU SOOO MUCH for all the positive healing energy coming our way and for everything you are doing. It means the world to us to know we have so many caring folks behind us. Love, Jim / Jamie
11/6 Friday a.m. Good news: Cari's MRI was negative and she does not have a fracture in her neck.
We both want to thank you all for your caring concern and all the positve energy that is coming to both us. It's really nice that everyone is making sure that I take care of myself too. I do know that I have to do that so that I can take care of Cari. I've decided that the best way to keep everyone up to date is to post all the updates on the top of my home page www.purplejim.net
Please send your well wishes/thoughts/questions to this email purplejim13@yahoo.com
Latest news: The MRI was negative and there is no fracture in Cari's neck. I just spoke to the attending nurse and Cari is doing well. She got some sleep last night, not quite as much as the night before. Rest is about the best thing for her right now. Cari is eating a little more each day which is also a good thing. My gut tells me everything is going to be OK, but we've got a road ahead of us. luckily Cari is the strongest person I know. May start PT today. I'm guessing Cari will be there another week or so. Can't accept flowers where she is, but she is enjoying the many cards that are coming in. best to send mail to: 626 Oak Tree Rd, Westminster, MM 21157. THANKS THANKS THANKS!!!! Your many acts of kindness have given me a better feeling about the world in general. It's nice to know so many people stand up and make an unbearabe situation bearable. I'll do my best to keep the website updated and I'm going to post the emails that I've already sent for those of you who have inquired. Love, Jamie / Jim
11/7 Sat. 1:30am Everyday I get so much strength from all of you. It means so much to Cari and me that so many people care so much. THANKS for all your well wishes and acts of kindness. Cari is still doing a little better. she still has pain, but it is lessening and they are doing their best to manage it. one of the next things that needs to happen is to have the drain removed from her head which we hope will be in the next day or two. She is meeting with a physical therapist everyday and also is being treated by reiki http://www.reiki.org/FAQ/WhatIsReiki.html , I'm so glad Cari is where she is - the Care level is amazing and they do it with compassion and smiles. I also want to thank all of you from the disability community for all your offers to utilize your talents for us. We'll be sure to call on you if we need to. another blessing. Cari and I send our thanks and Love to you all.
11/7 Sat. 9:00 am. I called the hospital and was told Cari had a good night and got some sleep. more updates tonight. Love to you all and thanks for everything. Enjoy Every Sandwich. Jim / Jamie
11/7 sat 10:00 pm Came home a little earlier tonight since Cari was already sleeping. the last 2 nights she didn't fall asleep until about midnight. I think she's in a little less pain. Good news is Cari walked about 60 feet up and back in the hall. It's the first time she's done that. not as good news is Cari is running a slight fever. We're still waiting for the pressure in her head to disapate to the point that she can have the draintube removed. Once that happens she'll move to a lower level of ICU. Everyday I'm impressed with the high level of care that Cari recieves. Here's a link to the University Of Maryland Hospital's Shock Trauma:
http://www.umm.edu/shocktrauma/ here's info on Reiki http://www.reiki.org/FAQ/WhatIsReiki.html
Thanks again for all of your wonderful support that you are giving to Cari and me. I'm scared to think of what it would be like if we didn't have it.
11/8 Sun 8:40 am Spoke to the nurse and Cari did get some sleep over night, but she did have some pain issues. Getting ready to head down to the hospital for the day. Cari's sister Elly is coming to see her again today. She's been a very good sister and I'm proud of her. My Dear Cousin Scott Purdy is coming down for a couple of days to help out. While I'm thinking about it, Cari and I want to thank Peggie for making sure that Cari's helmet was fitted properly. It's not only important to wear a helmet, but also that it fits properly. Hoping that you all wear your helmets when riding horses or bikes or skateboards, etc. from now on. I do understand that everyone at the Gentle Giant Barn is now wearing a helmet. Good that Good things can come out of this. Love to All, Jamie / Jim & Cari P.S. As our friend said in her card to Cari "stop horsin' around and get better" which made Cari and I laugh out load. Thanks for the laugh Kathy. Ands thanks to everyone for all the smiles.
11/9 Mon8:30 am Thanks for all your posts and messages. I enjoy sharing them with Cari. They all bring a smile to her face. Cari didn't have a great morning yesterday. She was in a fair amount of pain and she's getting a little warn out from being there (which is very understandable). I was glad when I called her Sister Elly and she came down and spent a good part of the day with Cari and things improved a lot. Cari looked much better as the day progressed and she got some more sleep. Still haven't removed the drainage tube. My cousin Scott Purdy, who is also one of Cari's childhood friends came down for a visit and really brightened Cari's day. Mine too. Again I want to say how everyday I'm impressed with Cari's care level and the amount of Loving support we are getting from so many people. THANKS. Love, Jamie / Jim & Cari P.S. Just checked with the nurse and Cari had a pretty restful night. getting ready to head to the hospital for the day.
11/10 Tues 8:30 am It's so nice to get all your wonderful posts and messages. It's great to be able so share them with Cari. Each and everyone makes her smile. Cari had a lot of pain yesterday morning and into the afternoon, but in the afternoon the Pain Management Team ( they have lots of teams) got her on pain meds 24/7 and she now has a pump so that she can take more pain med on her own. She was dong much better after that and she fell asleep earlier than most other days. I just checked with the nurse, Hope (not a bad sign) said Cari slept well over night. I'm heading down to the Hospital now. She's got another CT scan scheduled and they want me to be there with her. There still concerned about the amount of fluid on her brain. I'll let you know what the results are. My Cousin Scott is heading back home today. He really helped me and Cari in so many ways. Had a question about my names ( Jim / Jamie) - Most of our friend's that know me through Cari call me Jamie and lots of our other friends call me Jim. Again, I want to see how great everyone is being. THANKS THANKS THANKS!!!!!!
11/11 Wed 8:00 am Yet again I continue to be deeply touched by the far reaching network of friends and loved ones that are reaching out and touching Cari and me at this difficult time. The list of folks grows everyday. so many well wishes and sincere offers of help. those of you that I have asked for help - Thanks for coming through with flying colors (special thanks to Kelly for holding down the fort while she sent Scott down to help me for a couple of days). Also, those of you who have offered to help, Please know that we will call in you if and when the time is right. I appreciate your patience and know that you would all like to be actively helping. our mailbox has cards everyday and they brighten Cari's and my spirits.
Yesterday had some good news and some not so good: the good was that they got Cari's pain under control for the first time and she was able to get some rest. also good is that she has another CT Scan (they let me go with her again) and there was no change from the last one. not so good news is that Cari was confused quite a bit for most of the day which I think is a combination of the increased pain meds and a lack of sleep. After cutting back on her meds she was dong much more in touch last night. I'm hoping we can find the right amount of meds to balance the pain and confusion. They are planning on closing the valve on Cari's drainage tube again today. We're hoping that the pressure is reduced to the point where she won't require surgery to insert a permanent shunt for drainage. Specail thanks to Elly, Glen, Sandy and Deb for helping me sort stuff out yesterday and understand the roller coaster nature of this situation. Everyone keeps reminding me to take care of myself and I am. I'm eating at least 2 good meals a day and I'm getting at least 5 hours sleep a night (pretty normal for me). One more personal shout out to my dear musical friend Chris Hurley who had a minute of prayer for Cari at the Open Mic I attend on a regular basis. I wish I had the time to indiviually thank each one of you. I'll do my best over time to do that. I will say that the number of hits on my website has gone from 2 or 3 a day before Cari's accident to about 80 yesterday. One indication of many of you wonderful folks are out there. I'll try to update again after I speak to the nurse this morning. P.S. Cari has loved her visits, but I will warn you that she may not know you and she may be sleeping. Our Dear neighbors Joe and Carolyn drove all the way down yesterday and they couldn't visit with her. Their visit still meant the world to me and I know Cari will be happy when I tell her. LOVE to all
11/11 9:30 am Nurse said Cari had a good night. got some sleep. still confused, but less so. heading down to the hosptial for the day. THANKS LOVE AND PEACE
11/11 10:30 pm Got home a little earler today. Cari was sleeping pretty soundly when I left. In fact, she got a lot of sleep today, which I'm sure is a good thing. She was still a little confused, but everyone considers that to be normal under the circumstances. They closed the valve on her drainage tube this morning and it was still closed when I left tonight. Cari had another CT Scan this afternoon to see how what effect closing the valve had. I haven't heard the results yet. But Shawn, today's wonderful nurse, told me that someone had seen it, and the fact that noone came rushing over was probably a good thing. What we're hoping is that the remainder of the fluid will be obsorbed by her body. If not, then it looks like she'll have to have the permanent shunt. Hopfully we'll hear more tomorrow.
The ongoing support is too good for words. I realized in reading back through some of the earlier posts that I don't think I mentioned that Hannah (Happy Late Birthday) and Chrisitne drove Cari's car up to the hospital in Carroll County on the night of the accident so that I would have a way to get home. Then they drove it down to the hospital in Baltimore City at 11:00 pm so that I could get home from there - all without asking. Thanks to the Scotts for the cooler of goodies. Special thanks to Shannon for being 18. Just a couple examples of the kind things everyone is doing for Cari and Me. So many of you have brought smiles to our faces at the times we need them the most. I really want to thank Cari's sister Elly for taking care of me yesderday when I was at a low point. Cari and I send our LOVE to you all
11/12 Thurs 11:15 pm It's Miracle Time: They removed Cari's drainage tube today. She was able to walk out in the hall with a walker for her great P.T. Person Jill. It's still hard for me to believe, but it sounds like Cari is going to get to come home and have a Physical Therapist come to the house. At first they were discussing having her go to a Rehab Facility for a while, but instead they decided Cari would be better off at home at long as I could be there 24/7, which of course I can. I'm not sure how soon she will be leaving the hospital, but we should find out more tomorrow. Cari is still a little confused, but it comes and goes and less often. Understandable under the circumstances. I think that's one of the reasons they want to get her home. It's been almost 2 weeks that she's been there and I'm a little disoriented myself.
Yet again today I've been so deeply touched by your countless acts of kindness. So many people doing so many things to help Cari recover and to help me help her. I know all the positive energy that has been coming to us has created the Miracle that took place today. All your wonderful emails and cards and posts and positive energy are what keep Cari and I going. THANKS THANKS THANKS
I've added the song Baltimore Parts 1 & 2 to the music player since it has the following line in it The've got Shock Trauma and all the Lives that they save I was telling Shawn, one of the wonderful nurses, of which there are so many, that I had had a song played on the radio that had that line it and he wanted to hear it. So I'd like to dedicate this to Shawn and the other Miracle Workers at Shock Trauma (sorry for the quality of the recording - off the radio onto a boombox)
11/12 Thursday 8:45 am Red letter Day: Just spoke to Shawn and Cari had a good night and they are planning to remove her drainage tube sometime today. Everyone's prayers / good vibes and well wishes are paying off. I'll update tonight or in the morning. Peace and Love
11/13 Fri 9:00 am hard to believe it's been 2 weeks. Seems like yesterday, and like a year ago. I checked on Cari and she is still some confused. she is going for another CT Scan and if everything is OK then Surgery Team will sign off. Getting ready to head down for the day, but I wanted to do a couple more 'Shout Outs'. To Blair who caught Rurik and untacked him. To whoever sent Cari the Mrs. Fields Cookies with a note "I know this isn't the healthiest of food for you, but you deserve to be spoiled every so often" Somebody fess up. To Tisch who came home early from her vacation and is going to see her Aunt Cari today. To Jason and his family for the wonderful flowers. Any Kathy your flowers are still blooming too. to the Peak guys in the Field for the balloons and the Bear. To Cari's folks at MDOD for the icard so that she can get books on tape. To Mom for Loving me and her Pearl. To Elly for being a Great Sister. To Brother Charlie who drove all the way from North Carolina. For Josh who always brings a smile to his Aunt Cari's face. To Peggie, Christine and everyone who has offered to help once Cari gets home. To Miss Mary for holding my hand that first horrible night. If I didn't mention you here, it's not cause we don't appreciate everything, it's cause there are so many of you doing so many wonderful things. TYHANKS THANKS THANKS. Love and Peace and Thanks for the Miracle. Cari & Jamie / Jim
11/13 Fri 8:40pm CARI IS HOME and in her own bed!!!! Really hard to fathom. PT at home starting next week, so it looks like she is really on the road to recovery. Still some pain and confusion. But all and all pretty wonderful stuff. THANKS EVERYONE. Peace and Love, Cari (the Home version) and Jamie / Jim
11/14 Sat 12:30 pm Sorry for posting so late in the day, but I wanted to make sure Cari was getting some good rest. And she is. Sleeping in her own bed. What a wonderful turn of events. Cari was still a little confused overnight and it took her a while to get the pain in check so that she could sleep. Our 3 kitties are thrilled Mom's home, and of course Cari is thrilled to be in our Home with all our kitty children. I was able to get some sleep last night too. Strange, in a good way, to not wake up and call the hosptial to check on Cari and head to Baltimore for the day. Again, I want to say how great the level of care she recieved at Shock Trauma was. The compassion there on a person to person basis far exceeds any hosptial we've been around (and there have been many including Saint Agony (Agnus). Cari and I spent some time this morning opening and enjoying the lastest group of cards that keep coiming in. Her confusion level was very low. I think being at HOME is just the medicine she needed at this point. I was in amazement yesterday when Jill, our wonderful Physical Terroist (Jim Brady's term), knew just how hard to push. She had Cari walk down the hall with the use of a Walker yesterday and go up a few steps. When we got back to Cari's room Jill declared she was done. I asked her hopefully if we could take Cari home is a couple of days, and she answered today. I had to go home and get her some clothes (they had to cut off the clothes she was wearing at the time of the accident). Just as things have been going all along, Cari's Sister Elly and her daughter Tisch (one of our very favoriest people) showed up and stayed with Cari until I got back. As soon as we could fill out the paperwork we were on our way home. Rough trip - lots of bumps which made Cari's head hurt more. Now here we are at home.
A few of more shout outs: To Peggie and Mike who took care of getting Cari's prescriptions filled and did some shopping for us, including getting some Pot Pies which is what Cari specifically asked for. When I tried to pay them, they said just think of this as your flowers. More wonderful folks doing wonderful stuff for Cari and me. My friend Glen from work, along with his wife Lori, picked up my company car from the farm and delivered it home. To our neighbors Joe and Carolyn for bringing over a fantastic cake with a card that read 'Welcome Home Cari'. Still want to find out who sent the 3 pounds of cookies so that we can thank them. Whoever you are, Cari had one of the cookies already and I'm sure my Cookie Monster will enjoy many more or them. To Gaela for rallying the troops. To EVERYONE at Shock Trauma, including Liza, Laura, Shawn, Jill and Steve. Thanks to Susan for being an Isalnd of Peace during these rough waters. Our Dear friend Sandy and all her wonderful friends at the Church. There are so many of you who not only are praying, but gathering others to pray too. Andy, thanks for all your thoughtful posts. Our thoughts are with Miss Mary who is down south caring for her sister-in-law. Our prayers are with you. We are also praying for Miracles for all the folks still at Shock Trauma. Their family members and loved ones helped prop me up in the waiting room. Cari and I got our Miracle and we want you to have yours too.
I know a lot of you want to visit, and I know Cari wants to see you, and so do I. But for a little while I think she needs a little time to acclimate to home again. When she's ready we'll let you know. We appreciate your patience on this front. I've a lot more faith in the world than I've had in a long time. AGAIN - THANKS THANKS THANKS to everyone of you for your ongoing SUPPORT through this most difficult time. We wouldn't have gotten this far without you. Enjoy Every Sandwich. Cari and Jamie / Jim
11/15 Sunnyday 9:00 pm Wonderful News - I'm not Dreaming. Cari Really is HOME!!!! Today has been a GOOD day. We were both pretty wiped out yesterday. Lots of sleeping for both of us. Cari had a good night. Was up for about an hour with a headache in the middle of the night, but otherwise got a fair amount of sleep. We're trying to get back to a somewhat regular schedule. P.T. should start next week. Cari had her first visitor today. She visited with her sister Elly for about an hour while I got out and did some shopping. Elly's visit was to be followed by a visit from Karen and Shannon Scott, complete with Beef Stew and Yummy Rolls, but Cari was tired out and needed to crash for a while. Karen and Shannon were very understanding. I had a nice visit with them. GOOD PEEPs, to use one of Cari's terms. (BTW: she did eat some of the yummy stew and rolls before she fell asleep and I did too. MMMMMM MMMMMM GOOD). Lots more GOOD PEEPs in the world than I knew. Like ALL OF YOU READING THIS!!!!! SUPER BIG SHOUT OUT TO THE AMAZING CARI WHO WORKED SO HARD TO GET HOME TO ME! A few more shout outs: to Dan and Patti who braved the Police Line to get into see Cari at Shock Trauma, to my Friends at Peak who sent the Edible Arrangement which Cari and I enjoyed and so did the folks caring for Cari, and Donna for her sage advice. It's nice to know so many of you want to visit. And we really want to see you, but as the Rolling Stones put it "You Can't Always Get What You Want", but you all are giving us what we need. I'm sure that Cari's stamina will increase every day and we'll be able to see all of you. Thanks for your patience and THANKS FOR THE MIRACLE!!!! (Special thanks to Mom and her friend with the 44 Angels) I posted some pictures, including pictures of our Kitties, balloons, flowers, Mr. Gower and Nurse Truffle among others. I've also posted some photos from our Wedding that my Cuzbro Scott brought down courtesy of my Uncle Stew. I've put the song "Real Love" on the player since it was the song that I wrote for our Wedding. There's a picture of our dear friend Yvonne performing it. And Mom, there's a picture of Uncle Dick. Hope you enjoy every picture (and every sandwich). BIG LOVE, Cari and Jamie (Happily from HOME)
11/17 Tues 8:30 am Sorry no update yesterday. Cari slept pretty soundly from the time Elly left on Sunday until about 5:30 pm on Monday. Cari didn't get much sleep while she was in Shock Trauma, so I'm glad to see her getting some good blocks of sleep. Elly has pointed out to me a couple of times that a good day with a fair amount of activity is typically followed by a low energy day kind of like a Roller Coaster ride. I spoke to 'Home Care' yesterday and someone is supposed to contact us today about scheduling physical therapy at home. I spent most of the day catching up on some of the 'normal' chores like laundry. In a wierd way it's kind of nice to be doing some of that stuff. Cari spent a little bit of time in front of the computer last night and we watched a little bit of the Ravens game together. Cari has her passion for horses and I have my passion for music, but Cari got us Raven's Season Tickets so that we could have a passion that we share together. (Speaking of Music, Cari is singing backgroud vocals on some of the songs that are playing including 'Road of Life') Stamina and pain management are the things we're focusing on most, along with having some 'normal' activities. I can see progress everyday on all fronts. Some days more than others. We're enjoying all the food and goodies that folks have given us. BTW: if you've never had a pretzel roll you are really missing something. Thank you for all your sincere offers to help us out. I REALLY DON'T KNOW WHAT WE'D DO WITHOUT YOU ALL BEHIND US!!!! We both mostly slept through the night, and Cari is sleeping some more now.
Never too many shout outs: To Michael, one of those people who made Cari smile a bunch of times. I brought in new 'Stuffies' (stuffed animals) everyday and Michael would come in and ask Cari to introduce each one to him. Often he would say "Cute as a Button". What a sweet man. To Chris and Erik who came to Shock Trauma and promised Cari that they would make sure I was taking care of myself. To Cuzbro Scott for bringing us those 'Provisions', included the Annie's mac and cheese. To Tisch for coming back early, and just at the right moment. To Meg and Ralph for their wonderful home-made cards. To the "Miller-Moores" Cari keeps your card in bed with her and it gives her on going comfort. To Kathy for making us laugh with her "stop horsing around and get better" card. Smiles and Laughing are great medicine. To Clancy for sending Cari back to me. TO ALL YOU WONDERFUL PEEPS!!!!!
For quite a while everything was coming too fast for reflection, but I've had a few moments now to look back on things. The most important thing I see is how far Cari has come. Sometimes it's hard to see moment to moment the amazing progress she has made. It was only last Wednesday night that I was concerned that Cari was going to need to have surgery. Now here she is HOME. That night I went to the wishing fountain at Shock Trauma and tossed my change into the pool and made wishes for Cari's recovery, as well as for the recovery of everyone else at Shock Trauma. Then I went and got a cup of coffee and a slice of pizza and went back to eat by the fountain. Not long after I sat down a fellow walked up to me and said he hadn't eaten anything since 2:00 pm (it was around 7:30 pm) and asked if I could help him out. I offered him my pizza and coffee which he gladly accepted. He gave he a BIG HUG and said God Bless You. Since Cari and I had been recieving so much help and support, it felt good to help someone else (as Peggie put it: Pass it On). When I walked to the end of the hall, I looked back and the gentleman was gone. I never saw him again, but I really feel looking back on things that that moment was a turning point. We are all connected like links in a chain. One of the best things that has come out of this situation for me is that I have more faith in people than I've had in a long time. THANKS TO ALL OF YOU FOR THIS GIFT. And Thanks for all your cards, emails and posts. They brighten each day. Enjoy Every Sandwich (or slice of pizza). Peace and Love
11/17 Tues 7:00 pm It's Party Time! Awake and up and about for many hours. Less pain. Lots of firsts: Ride in the car, sent some emails and made a couple of phone calls. Also, thanks Kathy for making a house call and taking care of Cari's hair. Thanks Joe for cutting our grass and thanks Carolyn - Great Cake!! May the World Smile on Each and Everyone of YOU!!!
11/18 Wed (Day 19) 2:30 pm We both got a good night's sleep. Cari is cutting back on pain meds some. Had first visit from in-home P.T. folks today. Assesment and paperwork only. Real P.T. starts Friday. Cari's stamina is increasing day by day. Cari is resting now after over-hour visit from P.T. folks. May go for another short car ride later, we'll see. Nan, you're right: Cari does ROCK!! Peggie love the Edgar Allan Poe / Raven reference for Friday the 13th "Nevermore". Thanks to our Gentle Giant Family for their ongoing support. I hate to think of what might have happened if you guys hadn't responded so quickly that night. Also, glad to hear that everyone is now wearing a helmet when they ride. We would like to ask that ALL of you wear helmets when riding horses, bikes, skateboards, etc. THANKS FOR EVERYTHING. BTW: There's no place like HOME!!! Love and Peace, Cari and Jamie / Jim
11/18 Wed. 7:20 pm I Scream, You Scream, We all Scream for Ice Cream Not only did we go for a drive, but Cari and I went grocery shopping. She used a motorized cart supplied by Safeway. We also went to "Scoops", an Ice Cream store that we usually go to on our way home from Raven's games. The light at the end of the tunnel is not a train! Thanks all you Miracle Makers!!!! LIFE IS GOOD
11/19 Thurs 10:45 pm The Future is So Bright, I've got to Wear Shades Another GOOD DAY. In the afternoon, Cari and I went to her office in Baltimore so should could get some personal things. The folks in her office were very happy to see her. I wish I had had a camera and gotten pictures of their faces. We both enjoyed our short visit with those supportive folks. We arrived back home to find Beautiful Flowers (Thanks to "The Summers") and an Edible Arrangement (which we ate right up after admiring it - Thanks Miss Annie) on our front porch. Not long after we got home, Tisch and Elly came by and dropped off some of Tisch's wonderful home-made soup and they watched the CBS Special from 1963 - Rachel Carson's Silent Spring with Cari and I in honor of my Dad's death 2 years ago today. Cari decided to cancel Home Therapy, and instead she starts P.T. at Central Maryland Rehab where she has had P.T. before. It is also the place where she works out. And another place where the folks have been very supportive. Cari is gaining a little more stamina everyday, and the pain is lessening a little too. Can't tell you how happy I am. THANKS AGAIN TO YOU ALL FOR YOUR ONGOING SUPPORT. YOU ARE THE WIND BENEATH OUR WINGS!!!
11/20 Fri 10:17 pm 3 Weeks ago today is when this all started. And one week ago Cari came HOME. Cari had her first P.T. appointment this morning @ CMR today and it went really well. Cari does not have to use the Walker in our house anymore, but she is going to continue to use it when we go out. Cari is scheduled to go back twice a week for the next several weeks. The folks there are very nice and knowledgeable. After a quick stop at the drug store, we returned home to find 24 Pink Roses (Thanks Charlie & Todd) and more cheerful cards, and then we both napped for a while. Our evening entertainment was enjoying pizza and a movie (Enchanted - good choice Shannon) with our friends Karen and Shannon. We're both looking forward to a good night's sleep. Peace and Love
11/21 Saturday 12:30pm
Now that Jamie taught me how to post, I'm stumped for what to say. Yep, yesterday was the 3 week anniversary of being thrown and the 1 week anniversary of being home - and Dorothy and I definitely agree, there's no place like home and that's well worth repeating - there's no place like home! Although I do like getting out every day and we don't have anything planned for today so I'm going to have to make something up, possibly another trip to the grocery store as I really like riding around in the scooter. Last time some man was a tad freaked out at the sight of me, and I was even wearing a hat to cover the stiches and shaving, so I delighted myself by following him around the store - fun fun fun!
On a really sad note, I find myself afraid of horses for the first time in my life - afraid of all horses, not just Rurik, who I gave back to Gentle Giants at Jamie's request and my own good sense. I recognize that every horse can spook at any time for any reason - hense the fear. Perhaps a visit to the miniature horse farm in Gettysburg is a place to start, I don't know and really don't like being afraid. I'm open to suggestions.
For any who already have my email address, please go ahead and use it, for those of you who do not, I am setting up a special email address for the duration of my recovery - carirecovers@purplejim.net - so please keep in touch either here or at one of my email addresses - except work email which I am not yet checking. Hope to talk to you soon.
Cari
11/22 Sunday 10:45 am Another visit to the store yesterday. Cari is getting real good with the motorized cart. She is starting to get on a somewhat regular schedule. About 12 hours up and 12 hours of sleep. Ed is supposed to come to our home today and give Cari a much needed accupuncture treatment (You Da Man Ed!!!). Cari is doing some P.T. exercises at home and has appointments next Monday and Tuesday. She is still getting those wonderful cards you guys are sending. Even got a couple from Nan's dog Colby (Good Boy Colby). Boy do I have a lot to be thankful for this Thanksgiving. Cari being HOME and ALL THE LOVE AND JOY THAT YOU GUYS HAVE GIVEN TO CARI AND I are tops on the list. Peace & Love, Jamie / Jim
11/23 Monday 1:25 pm
Braved one of my worst fears today - had yet another CT scan - this one voluntarily and without sedation ... wasn't quite as bad as I feared, only lasted 3 minutes and now I have everything I need to see the doctor a week from today. Rewarded myself with a trip to Big Bob's (Bob Evans) complete with some absolutely yummy blue berry pancakes! PT today at 6:30 so I'm about to go down for a nap - highly unusual behavior for me but I'm totally stuffed and actually somewhat sleepy.
A dear friend is throwing me a b-day celebration on Wednesday, a very BIG deal as not long ago it looked like I may not make it past 48. A lot to celebrate and a lot to be thankful for - and if you are reading this, you are one of the people I am thankful to have in my life, and I am grateful for your friendship and support.
If you are reading this, Happy Birthday Debbie.
Nap time.
11/24 Tuesday 12:25 pm
It's the day before my birthday, a birthday I feel blessed to be alive and to celebrate but I am worried. Worried about my Gentle Giants family, worried they don't understand my returning Rurik to the rescue. It wasn't a decision I made lightly, I spent hours and many tears coming to it. I talked with many who love me, many who wouldn't offer an opinion until I pressed them. In the end the decision was unanymous, not all for the same reasons but we all came to the same place - I am too old to survive another fall and YES any horse can spook and be stupid at any time. It just seemed much more likely to happen with Rurik. And at this point, I am afraid of him and not just of him, of all horses big and small - in fact, anything larger than my 20 pound cat makes me nervous!
11/25 Wed 7:40 am HAPPY BIRTHDAY CARI
Roses are Pink, Viotets are Blue, Boy am I glad I get to spend this Birthday with YOU!!!!
11/25 9:45 pm I can't remember a Birthday I enjoyed celebrating more than Cari's Birthday today. I'm so thankful that she is here with me. Thanks for all your prayers and well wishes. I am sure they made this possible. Cari and I had a wonderful time at the Birthday Party the Scott's threw for her. Check out the pics of the Beautiful and Yummy Pink Cake. We had great splitpea soup and lots of pleasant visiting.
Looking forward to Thanksgiving tomorrow as we have so much to be THANKFUL for. I'm thankful that Cari is HOME and on the road to recovery. I'm thankful for ALL OF YOU WONDERFUL PEEPS. And I'm thankful for being given a better outlook on life. You all are examples of goodness in the world when I hadn't been seeing very much. THANKS
11/26 7:15 am
HAPPY THANKSGIVING
Happy Thanksgiving
To friends far and near
Happy Thanksgiving
To friends near and dear
Happy Thanksgiving
Let’s let out a Cheer
Happy Thanksgiving
Throughout the year
I can’t express the happiness and thankfulness I feel today. Words don’t seem adequate. To be spending Thanksgiving at HOME with Cari seemed like a pipedream, but thanks to all of you I’m getting ready to put a turkey in the oven. Cari and I have a tradition of listing the things we are thankful for before we have Thanksgiving dinner. I have a feeling it’s going to be quite a list this year, and at the top of the list is having friends (the real kind) like YOU. It’s easy for people to be ‘friends’ when everything is going well. Look at all the ‘friends’ Elvis had when things were good, but when things went bad his ‘friends’ all disappeared. Nice to know we have REAL FRIENDS. Hope your Thanksgiving day, and every day that follows, is filled with Great Health and Happiness and that the Joy you’ve given to Cari and me comes back to you ten-fold. THANKS, THANKS, THANKS!!!!! Peace and Love, Jim / Jamie
11/27 Friday 3:30
We are just in from the grocery store and I wish I could report another chasing but nooooooooooooooo, absolutely no one looked remotely scared and therefore wasn't worth chasing - bummer! After the grocery store we headed to the library where children's books seemed my best choice - nothing scary, fairly large print and an opportunity to relive one of the better parts of my childhood - I'm starting with Laura Ingalls Wilder's Little House on the Prairie.
Came home to find a message from my vet's office - lovely people who tried so hard with me to save/rehab Clancy and who cried with me when it wasn't possible. I have a very special place in my heart for them and it made my day to return the call and talk with both Cheryle (sp?) and with my pal "Doc". As I work toward being less afraid of horses, spending time with Doc and his horses is something I look forward too. Need to both work on the fear and on being more stable (no pun intended) on my feet. They were definitely on my list of people I was thankful for yesterday.
Cari
11/28 3:17
Too tired to say anything besides little horses aren't nearly as scary as big ones.
12/1 1:24
Afraid of tempting fate by saying its over and the fat lady has sung, so I'll just say that the stitches are out and I've been discharged from Shock Trauma to the care of my regular docs. Hard to believe that a little more than a month ago, it was 50/50 that I'd survive. Today is a VERY good day!!!
12/1 7:18 pm Happy 'Rabbit Rabbit' Day, and it is!!
Really glad that Cari had her stiches out today and that she was released from Shock Trauma's care to that of her regular doctors. Have a bunch of appointments scheduled over the next week. Cari's appointment was short and sweet. Just the kind we like. Afterward we went back up to the ICU unit and saw Cari's Wonderful P.T. person Jill. Jill was very happy with Cari's progress. Also saw our smiling friend Michael and a couple of the Doctors that had cared for Cari. Sorry we didn't get to see either of our favorite nurses Liza or Laura. It was kind of strange going back there, but it also brought home deeply how greatful I am to all the caring and talented folks that took care of Cari and me while she was there. Also reminded me of how much Love and Care we both have recieved, and continue to recieve, from all of YOU. THANKS THANKS THANKS
I'm looking to return to work on Thursday 12/10. Looks like Deb was right all along, Cari did not need rebuilding, just recovery time. Still working on pain management and stamina. Both continue to improve and I don't forsee any 'life changes' coming out of this.
Since I haven't written in a couple of days I wanted to share a couple of our small adventures out in the world. We went to the Land of the Little Horses on Saturday. We had a good time. In addition to interacting with some of the minature horses, we also mingled with a couple of donkeys that roamed around. Cari also petted a full size horse over a fence. Each of these interactions went well and I think they are good building blocks.
We also stopped and bought some apples and had lunch at the Frederick Coffee Company. Our longest stint out in the world yet. We both crashed early and slept well.
Sunday was another grocery shop and cart ride followed by a nice visit at our Home with Elly and Jim (Thanks Jim for helping me take the mattress to the basement). We finished the last of that great Pink Birthday Cake. (Yummy Yummy Karen and Shannon).
Yesterday (Monday) we made an excursion to Boyds Bear Country and did our part to stimulate the economy. It was my first visit there and it's a pretty amazing place. It's good to get out and get used to speed of the world. Lots more to process than in our Home. Another step toward getting Cari's Life Back.
Really can't say it enough times, and my words can't express the depth of our appreciation for what each and everyone of you have given us. You've given us the gift of Cari's Life back. You've given us the Miracle we both longed for and needed. And you've given us HOPE for a bright future together. In addition, You've given me more faith in my fellow man. I'll do my best to help others as you have helped us. THANKS THANKS THANKS THANKS (I CAN NEVER SAY IT ENOUGH) Peace and Love, Jamie / Jim
12/5 Sat 8:00 am When we got home on Tuesday after Cari had been released by Shock Trauma into the care of her regular doctors I came home and I was so tired I took a nap. I told Cari I couldn't understand how I could be so tired when I'd only been up for 6 or 7 hours. She said it's because I was 'off guard' and I'm sure she was right. I couln't allow myself to be tired up until then. I thought back to when Cari first came home from Shock Trauma on November 13th and how I would check on her every few minutes the first several days. I also remembered how I would walk down the hall toward our bedroom and I would hear Cari snoring. We both have snored from time to time and it would usually make the nonsnorer mad, but in this case I found myself smiling just knowing that Cari was alive and sleeping in our HOME.
Wednesday and Friday was more P.T. Cari is able to do a little more each time. Glad we decided to pass on the Home P.T. folks. By the way: when the Home P.T. people came to do their assesment of Cari our 20 pound kittie Irv kept walking back and forth between them and Cari. He won't usually even come around people, but he felt the need to protect Cari from the bad guys. Who says animals are dumb? Must be dumb people!! Cari also went to her eye doctor on Monday and found out that she has cornia damage in her eye that doesn't tear. She is going to see her specialist soon. On Thursday Cari made her first trip to see Ed and got a wonderful accupunture treatment. On Friday after P.T., we went down to Cari's office and picked up a laptop so that she can work at home, and we had nice visits with lots of good folks. Her work Peeps, like ALL OF YOU, have been, and continue to be great. Cari is starting to drive a little and it won't be long before she is driving herself around. We're planning on heading to the Open Mic at the Starry Night Bakery in Westminster tonight weather permitting. Our friend Chris Hurley who runs the Open Mic had a moment of silent prayer for Cari last month so it will be nice to show them all how well Cari is doing. And I'm looking forward to playing a few songs. By the Way: Thanks for all of your kind comments regarding my music. I've added a Christmas song, 'The Christmas Mash', which is a parody of 'The Monster Mash'. Hope the Holiday Season and Every Day fills your heart with JOY. Peace and Love, Jamie / Jim
12/11/09 Friday morning
Sorry I haven’t written in a few days. Monday we got good news on Cari’s eye from her specialist. It looks like all of the damage to her cornea will repair itself fairly quickly as long as Cari takes good care of it, and she is! After lunch, Cari had P.T.
On both Tuesday and Wednesday Cari drove herself to her appointments. It felt pretty weird to be home without her. I had left her home on a couple of occasions when I’d gone to the store, but Tuesday was the first day that Cari went out on her own.
On Wednesday we went out to dinner since Thursday was my first day back at work. Boy was it strange to get up and go to work after about 5 ½ weeks of not going.
Cari is going to a meeting this morning and then she has an appointment with Ed later. Her cold is getting better and so far I’ve avoided getting it.
Didn’t make it to open mic last Friday due to the weather, but I’m looking forward to playing at Java Grande in Ellicott City this Saturday evening. We bought a wheelchair and we’re hoping to go to the football game on Sunday.
I still can’t believe how far we’ve come and I still can’t believe how much support you all have given us. THANKS, THANKS AND THANKS. Peace and Love, Jim / Jamie
I miss Warren Zevon. My life passages are marked by his music; I dated to Tenderness on the Block and Frank & Jessie James and married to Boom-Boom Mancini and Sentimental Hygiene. Sadly, he left us with Keep Me in Your Heart for Awhile and Disorder in the House far too soon. Through it all his references to obscure events and their characters, ability to capture a wide range of emotions, sometimes within the same song and his passion for life – not to mention is distinctive lead guitar, kept his music fresh. I was fortunate to have attended three of his live performances, one acoustic and two with his full band. Over the years I’ve performed several of his tunes including Lawyers, Guns & Money, Nighttime in the Switching Yard, Werewolves of London, Sleep When I’m Dead and Poor Pitiful Me. Warren Rocks! Having watched The Wind DVD several times, I am impressed that Warren touched so many people in such a deep way - examples of true friendship – a rare thing today. I also own the ENJOY EVERY SANDWICH CD. It’s cool to hear versions of Warren’s songs performed by his friends. I was so inspired by Warren’s answer to David Letterman’s query: “What have you learned?”, that I wrote a tribute to Warren entitled Enjoy Every Sandwich. The lyrics are listed below and there is a version of it posted on www.purplejim.com. I hope you enjoy it. THINK PEACE & let’s keep Warren’s music and legend alive! Jim Buckley Enjoy Every Sandwich A Tribute to Warren Zevon by Jim Buckley; 7/06 I saw Warren Zevon on the Letterman Show Not long before he died He sang that song about Roland the Headless Thompson Gunner With the Grim Reaper standing right by his side And when the show was over Dave turned to Warren and he asked “Warren buddy, what have you learned?” Warren didn’t hesitate, no he answered real fast “Enjoy Every Sandwich” Warren’s right…. Let’s enjoy every sandwich Enjoy every bite Enjoy every day And enjoy every night If the Werewolves are howling And the Gorilla’s got my keys Send lawyers, guns and money To help poor pitiful me The excitable boy Who left us with the Wind Asked us to keep him in our hearts awhile So let’s sing his songs again Sing a song for Warren And all the others who have gone Let’s keep them in our hearts That’s where they belong So enjoy every sandwich Enjoy every bite Enjoy every day And enjoy every night Enjoy every sandwich This one may be your last Time goes by so quickly Our lives go by too damn fast So enjoy every sandwich Enjoy every bite Enjoy every day And enjoy every night Warren was right!
Joy & Civility to All I'm on a mission to act more civilly. the world doesn't make this easy, but all the more reason we all need to make our best effort to act properly. I'm taking an example from my wife Cari: do the right thing simply because it is the right thing. So let's all try to pass along happiness instead of hate, a smile instead of a curse. you get the picture. I need all the help I can get. BTW: if you see me not being true to my mission, please tell me. like Neil Young said "you're just pissin in the wind, you don't know it, but you are. And there's nothing like a friend that will tell you when you are pissin in the wind". So be a real friend and tell me when I'm goofin up. Be Happy and Healthy. PurpleJim
Joy & Civility to All I'm on a mission to act more civilly. the world doesn't make this easy, but all the more reason we all need to make our best effort to act properly. I'm taking an example from my wife Cari: do the right thing simply because it is the right thing. So let's all try to pass along happiness instead of hate, a smile instead of a curse. you get the picture. I need all the help I can get. BTW: if you see me not being true to my mission, please tell me. like Neil Young said "you're just pissin in the wind, you don't know it, but you are. And there's nothing like a friend that will tell you when you are pissin in the wind". So be a real friend and tell me when I'm goofin up. Be Happy and Healthy. PurpleJim
Be a Democan I'm not going to call it a party, let's say it's a way of life. Be a Democan. I'm not really happy with the 2 parties. It seems that the 2 Party system is about throwing parties to raise money. So I decided that maybe if we took the RAT out of Democrat and kept the Democ part and got rid of the Republic out of Republican and kept the Can that we could have a new hybrid: Democan. I like Democracy so that's why we'll keep the DEMO and I like CAN, as in Can Do, so let's keep that. We get rid of Republic (as in Kingdom) and we get rid of the RATs (lots of rats to get rid of in both parties). There's no place to sign up as a Democan and I'm not asking for money. All you need to do is act in a civil manner and try to do your best at all times. "you may say I'm a Dreamer", "But What's Wrong With That"! Thanks John & Paul. Joy & Civility to ALL!