The star of last week has been Carver. Seriously. He was great to Grandpa and great to me too. I think he can sense something is going on. We’ve explained everything to him and he talks and asks about “Papa’s owie”.
Here he’s taking time to sit with Grandpa and watch television.
Last weekend we finally caught up on opening all of the cards that have been sent our way. Kramer and I are both so surprised and thankful for all of the warm greetings.
Some of cards are just a quickly signed name with a well wish….some come with lengthy, thought out, words that are very touching….some have a gift card a few cash. Some are from neighbors and friends…some from family…some from our kids’ friends…some from acquaintances and some from blog readers. Each is so appreciated and meaningful to the two of us.
Last week, one night…when Carver was staying overnight, Kramer decided we needed to get them all opened. Cards have been coming in since we told everyone he was diagnosed with lung cancer. He gets a couple a day. We had kept up with them until he was in the hospital. Then he got behind. So it was time to read the rest of them.
It was very emotional. It was so unexpected. Kramer and I are two people trying to live a good life. We aren’t special. We aren’t notable. We are two people who are trying to make good choices as often as we can. Man -oh man….were we ever wowed by the cards.
I can’t tell you how many times, as it was too many to count, that both of us teared up a little bit. The words people wrote were so special and were very touching- very encouraging – very needed.
I’ll admit, Kramer and I have both been a little worried about how this is all going to settle financially. Him working for an independent farmer and me doing childcare operating my own business can make a person nervous. I can’t tell you how helpful it’s been to get a gas gift card and other gift cards. We’re likely facing 6 weeks of daily trips to Lacrosse (180 miles round trip). It’s going to take a lot of gas money to do that. Both of us feel like we can focus more on getting better and less on worrying about fuel costs. It’s so appreciated.
In the middle of this all I started crying. I just couldn’t believe how kind people are. We are have done nothing to be deserving of these kindnesses. It was about then that Carver came running out to the kitchen to check on Kramer and I. Carver saw I was crying. He ran over and told me “Uppy-uppy”. He put his head on my shoulder and just loved on me. That made me want to cry all the more. He’s such a good little guy.
So many people have been worrying about me thinking I’m doing too much…running myself down. This little guy, even though he’s a bit of work, is giving back to us just as much, if not more, as we’re giving him.
Kramer and I can’t say thank you enough for all the comments, cards, gift cards, prayers and well wishes that have been sent our way. We are so blessed to have so many good people in our lives. We’ve always felt we live a good a life. We see that now more than ever. Thank you isn’t enough.
Now I’m crying Jo! You & hubby are special just so modest! Keeping your family in my prayers & sending my thoughts to Kramer to feel better soon! Hugs to you all!
Having grown up in a small farming community, I can relate to a lot that you post, not just about quilts. You and your family are kind and giving. That is why lots of people can relate to you! Since I live out of the country and cannot easily mail you anything, I can pray for you and also I have been clicking on your ads twice a day. I can see from pictures of Carver that he is a joy to have around!
I came to your blog thru quilting and stayed because of your love of family and the hope it gives me for the future. Life can throw any of us curves but it is how we react and draw together with family that gives strength. Sending much love to you and your husband.
Please explain clicking on ads. How does that help Jo?
Brings back memories of my Mom & Dad when they had the “C” word. You remind me so much of my mom. Never complaining and being there for no matter what.
Many hugs and prayers! The love of a grandchild is so special. We lost our grown son in a farming accident a few years ago. If it hadn’t been for my daughter’s daughter, my first grandchild, who was only 6 months old, I don’t know how the days would have turned out. She is 5 now and going to be heading into Kindergarten in the fall. She and I have a special bond. I gave her lots of loving then and now. They seem to have a sense when we need something. I now have a total of 4 little granddaughters in this family. They are in years 5, 3, 2, and one born in December.
Take care
You and Kramer are so special because you are plain folks. You live life day to day in your own modest way and you are not trying to put on a show. When you bought your house and remodeled you and Kramer worked very hard and watched every penny that you spent. You really worked hard to recycle flooring and saved in many other ways. You give so much to charity. You look after neighbor girl. I could go on and on but I hope you get the picture. You are special because you are you.
This post brought a tear to my eyes, too! That little Carver just makes me smile. I do believe kiddos know when you need a hug. Bless them! Continued good thoughts and prayers to you and yours! Hugs!
Worried about you, hubby and family — and so glad things are improving every day.
Prayers your way as always
You have so many blessings!
Still sending prayers your way. I always say grandkids can put a smile on you when you do not feel like smiling.
I think the real story is what a great community the two of you have built. A community of people like yourselves that just want to try to make the right choices and help those who need a little extra help at times. The obvious response is for folks to reach out.
My Mom always believed you received what you gave. Ten fold!! I would say you are receiving what you give and you and Kramer are very deserving. You are just like most of us out here, just simple people trying to get by and do good for others and love your family
I so enjoy reading all about your life everyday. You are blessed and so are we by having known you a little bit.
Enjoyed the post especially Carver he is one precious little man. I’m so glad you have been given ,just like you have given. Thanks for being on line. Continuing praying for your whole family