What Do You See Outside YOUR Open Window Today?

What Do You See Outside YOUR Open Window Today?
Remember: "When God closes a door, He always opens a window!" You never know what might be out there waiting for you!

Saturday, January 28, 2023

Friday Foto Friends on Saturday!

 Greetings and Salutations Friends! Yes, it is Saturday already, and I never got a round to posting anything yesterday for Friday Foto Friends because it was just a busy busy day, and at first I really didn't have many photos to share, but as often happens, as the day goes by things "develop" and pictures emerge from the shadows...so here we go...pictures that are actually from throughout the week but culminating in something post-worthy by today. Hope that makes sense!

Let's go back to the beginning of the week and work our way through, shall we?

Monday morning sunrise...we were on our way early in the morning to the radiology clinic so that I could have two MRI's.  Yes, that's right, I said two.  For those of you who know me, you will remember that I have had some chronic issues with pain in my neck, shoulders, and back.  I had a cervical spinal fusion in 2021 to correct a ruptured disc in my neck, which helped take care of my neck and some of the arm/shoulder pain on the right arm, (although I still have issues with the right arm to a certain degree, i.e., a frozen shoulder that has only partially "thawed out". LOL)  

 But over the past year the pain in my right shoulder has migrated to my left shoulder, and it is now the primary issue, but I also have a lot of muscle and/or nerve pain in my upper back, especially when under any stress, etc.

(I hope you are enjoying the ride with me and the sun rising over the pasture land at a local farm while I tell this story)  There are cows in that field, if you can see them.


Anyway, long story short, my Doctor was finally convinced that I needed an MRI to find out what's going on. I already had some X-Rays a few weeks ago that were inconclusive.  Of course, they can't do it all in just one MRI...oh no, they have to do two, one of the left shoulder/arm, and one of the upper thoracic spine.  And they couldn't schedule them exactly "back to back" (pun intended) because they had to fit someone else in between, so I got to endure one MRI, then go sit in a waiting room for a half hour or so, and then go have the other MRI. They asked me if I was claustrophobic, (which I am), but I said no. I'm tough. I can do this.  LOL.  Well, thankfully, I wasn't alone in the MRI machine. Jesus was with me.  The technician asked me if I would like to listen to some music while in the MRI, and I said yes, so he asked what kind and I said preferably Christian music, so he said he would find some contemporary Christian music for me. That was nice. He gave me the headphones, and once the test started it's banging and hammering sounds (if you have ever had an MRI you will know what I mean), the music started playing. It was difficult to hear, but  the song that was playing (at first), was "I Speak Jesus".  I think I've shared this song with you before, but if not, here it is again:

This was the perfect song to hear while going through the "tunnel" of the MRI. That helped me to be completely at ease and and at peace.  I wish I could say the same for the 2nd song that played...I couldn't really understand it very well, but what I could hear was not quite as calming, and I was happy when it and the MRI was over.  Then when I went through the 2nd MRI, the same playlist came up. I got to listen to "I Speak Jesus" again, followed by the same song I didn't like, but all in all I knew that Jesus was with me and that was a great comfort.  Soon it was over and I was back on my way home. I still do not know the results of the tests, but will find out next week. Praying for something that can be helped without surgery.

Meanwhile this week we noticed that our son's truck had a damaged tail light. He said he backed into a tree accidentally and cracked it.  Well, hubby said he wanted to so something to surprise him so he ordered and new tail light for the truck online. He was like a little kid wanting to surprise our son and wouldn't tell him about it until it came in the mail. 

It finally came, and we took it over to his house and together they figured out how to remove the old and replace it with the new light:


And the best part was, it worked!!! Yes, he was surprised, and very thankful. He stays so busy with Dixie Cottage that he doesn't have time to deal with things like that, so it was a blessing...and I think my hubby was blessed as well in doing this special little surprise.


Now these next pictures are going to scare you. An alien has taken over our house (and my body!).  First off, I think you may remember that I told you HERE last week that I had to take a test for sleep apnea. Well, the results came in finally, and guess what? I failed! Or maybe I passed, depending upon which way you want to look at it. I DO have sleep apnea.  They said I stopped breathing 48 times in one night. That doesn't sound good, does it?  No, it doesn't sound good to me either.  And so, I received a phone call from the CPAP machine company saying they received the order from my Doctor and the approval from my insurance to bring me a CPAP machine and show me how to use it. Great. Thanks. Just what I wanted. NOT! Remember I said something about being claustrophobic? Yeah, well...they assured me that these new machines don't cover the whole mouth and nose, just a little tube under the nostrils, etc., etc. blah blah blah. I asked about the new thing you see advertised on TV where they actually surgically install a sleep apnea control system into your body...so you don't have to wear this mask stuff...well, in order to "qualify for that", you have to do this other first and see just how badly you need it.

So here I am folks...aren't I beautiful? Oh, btw, I also got a perm this week in my hair. It's supposed to be just a body perm, but that body sure is kinky curly! LOL.  The only good thing is the mask thingy doesn't pack my hair down too much. My hair just springs right back up and out in every direction! LOL.

This is what I think about that...LOL....

So I received this yesterday afternoon, and realized I really didn't have a good place to put it at night.

Remember this bedside table from last Tuesday's Tuesday 4 post about our home?, Well, that little round 3 legged table isn't really sturdy enough or big enough to hold a CPAP machine and all the other paraphernalia that goes along with it. So what to do?

I guess it's a good thing our son owns a store that sells furniture.  I called him up (actually I spoke to Rose first and told her my dilemma, and she explained it so sweetly to Benton)...I knew there was a night stand at the store that would probably fit perfectly in that spot, but it goes with a complete bedroom set and I didn't think he'd want to break up the set...but...before I could even offer to pay for it they had it loaded up in their truck and brought it over to us last evening:
And there it is! Complete with the CPap machine.  It fit perfectly!! 
So, how did I do last night? Well...let's just say it's going to take some major getting used to sleeping with this thing on.  I told my hubby he may want to wear blinders so he isn't shocked when he rolls over and looks at me during the night with that thing on my head! Thankfully it is very quiet, so there's no noise to disturb him, but sleeping with an alien might take some getting used to! LOL.

Now here's some sweet pictures.  While we were setting this thing up in the bedroom, their doggy Sugar came inside the bedroom and laid down on the rug at the end of our bed. Normally when the puppies come over we have the bedroom door shut so the doggies don't go exploring too far and get into trouble. But last night the door was wide open, and Sugar found a comfortable spot on this rug and made herself quite at home.
(excuse the mess on the bed...we were in transition here...)
When her Daddy said it was time to go home, this is what she did:

She was so sweet...about made me want to say just let her stay here...but of course they would never do that...they are quite attached to one another. Her sister Spice was taking advantage of this time and exploring all the rest of the house where we had forgotten to close any other doors.  But she didn't get into any trouble. They really are very sweet grandpups.

Okay, I think that's enough for one day. 

I am so very thankful for God's watchcare over me this past week. I love the ways He took care of every situation, and I am trusting Him to take care of my shoulder and back issues in a positive way.

Here's the lyrics to that song, "I Speak Jesus", in case you want to go back and play it again and sing along:
I just wanna speak the name of JesusOver every heart and every mind'Cause I know there is peace within Your presenceI speak Jesus
I just wanna speak the name of Jesus'Til every dark addiction starts to breakDeclaring there is hope and there is freedomI speak Jesus
'Cause Your name is powerYour name is healingYour name is lifeBreak every strongholdShine through the shadowsBurn like a fire
I just wanna speak the name of JesusOver fear and all anxietyTo every soul held captive by depressionI speak Jesus
'Cause Your name is powerYour name is healingYour name is lifeBreak every strongholdShine through the shadowsBurn like the fire
Shout Jesus from the mountainsJesus in the streetsJesus in the darkness over every enemyJesus for my familyI speak the holy nameJesus, oh
Shout Jesus from the mountainsJesus in the streetsJesus in the darkness over every enemyJesus for my familyI speak the holy nameJesus (Jesus)
'Cause Your name is powerYour name is healingYour name is lifeBreak every strongholdShine through the shadowsBurn like a fire
Your name is power (Your name is power)Your name is healing (Your name is healing)Your name is life (You are my life)Break every stronghold (break every stronghold)Shine through the shadowsBurn like a fire
I just wanna speak the name of JesusOver every heart and every mind'Cause I know there is peace within Your presenceI speak Jesus
Source: Musixmatch
Songwriters: Jesse Reeves / Dustin Smith / Raina Patt / Kristen Dutton / Carlene Prince / Abigail Benton
I Speak Jesus lyrics © Integrity's Praise! Music, Here Be Lions Publishing

Amen.











37 comments:

  1. Hubby and I both use a cpap. He likes it and I really don't. But it's okay and I know it's probably a big help in keeping me healthier. So I'll keep using it. I hope you adjust quickly. Take care my friend.

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    1. Yes, the Dr. says it's really supposed to help me be healthier...good for the heart, etc., etc. So we shall see. I hope I sleep better tonight. Does yours have a water thing to humidify it? I didn't have any distilled water last night so used it without the water, and my throat was so dry. So I got some today and I hope it will do better tonight. Time will tell. Take care and have a good night. Tomorrow is SONday...oh, and we have a 5th Sunday potluck dinner after church. That should be good. Good night.

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  2. I've had a few MRI's :( I love that feeling when I know it's over and they're rolling me out! It was so nice of John to replace the light on your son's truck. As you were telling about it I was thinking . . . it's so much better to give than receive. I feel that's true. The nightstand looks great, I'm sure the drawers are good for holding any accessories for your new machine. I had to laugh at your picture, it's not funny but laughter will make the way seem a little easier to bear. My son-in-law has to wear one, he hates it. Sometimes we just have to do what we have to do. Prayers for good results from the MRI. Hopefully they can help you with meds and surgery won't be needed.

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    1. Thank you, Mary. I don't mind you laughing at my picture. It's better than crying or running away in horror! LOL. It was meant to be funny. I hope tonight will be a better night, because I sure am tired after not sleeping much last night. We shall see. Take care my friend.

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  3. Awesome thing John did! As for the CPAP machine, Dave is supposed to use one, but for whatever reason, he says it feels like he is choking. I hope you can get used to it. smiles

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    1. Maybe it doesn't fit him right. Perhaps he needs to talk to someone about it and get a different one. I do understand what he means...I struggled last night, but finally fell asleep with it but woke up with a very dry throat. I didn't have water in the machine to humidify it because we didn't have any distilled water. Got some today, so we shall see if that really makes a difference. I hope so. Take care my friend. Tell Dave I said Hi!

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  4. "They really are very sweet grandpups."

    😊💙

    I am sorry to hear about the sleep apnea, but at least there is something you can do.

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    1. That is true. Now I just have to make myself do it!! LOL. Thank you.

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  5. Hi Pamela, I have had a few MRI's and I spend the time praying in it. I hope you don't have to wait too long to get an answer. I had a sleep test too and I have a mild case. I don't have to wear a Cpap yet. I just have to try to stay on my side which I do anyways. Good that you got a new night table to have the things you need. Your perm will soften. I love your sense of humor with the pictures. Enjoy your week!

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    1. Thank you Susan. I am glad you don't have to wear the cpap yet. I am still trying to adjust and we shall see how it goes. I do sleep on my side too and that has always helped, but I know that I tend to stop breathing sometimes even then and wake myself up gasping. So I know I need this, but it's not that easy or comfortable. Thank you for your kind words. And the perm is loosening up daily. Actually I am thankful for it because it seems to stay in place better now that I have to wear that mask thing at night. Thanks again, and have a good week!

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  6. MRIs are tough to endure, for sure. Even if you aren't claustrophobic they are uncomfortable. Hope the results show something that can be corrected easily. Keeping you in my prayers for that! Joe had a cpap machine and it made a huge difference for him so hope you will get a more restful sleep with it. As always, I enjoyed your beautiful photos!! xo

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    1. Thank you, Terri. The jury is still out on the cpap machine. One day at a time. I am not noticing any miraculous results yet, but I am trying to be patient. I am getting sleepy enough now to go try it again. LOL. I hope you have a blessed week my friend.

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  7. I hope that the machine will make things better a humorous story a friend shared both her and her husband needed the machine, it did take care of their issues but she said the poor dog was terrified when they geared up. Will keep you in prayer that you may avoid surgery.

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    1. I can imagine the sight of this alien equipment on both folks would be enough to terrify any dog. LOL. It rather terrifies me too. LOL. Thank you for the prayers.

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  8. I goofed I was the one who commented about the frightened dog

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    1. LOL. Thank you for letting me know. I would have been wondering!

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  9. When I am asked about music, I decline. One more thing to think about. But I do love that song. It's very comforting.

    I don't think stopping breathing 48 times in a night is good, but I wouldn't trust them. Ha! Did they prove it? Hope that you'll feel much better for wearing it, more rested and all the good things. You look pretty cute actually. I don't think your hubby will freak.

    What a nice family! Lights, bedside tables, perfect!

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    1. Thank you, Vee. The music for the most part was very comforting and helped me to focus more on Jesus than on my circumstances. But the noise of an MRI is so loud it really is hard to hear the music. Sometimes I have just sung my own music and that worked too, as long as I didn't move in the process. LOL. RE: the sleep apnea...I am hoping this works, but the jury is still out. One day at a time. Thank you for thinking I look cute. You are so sweet and funny too. LOL. No hubby won't freak as long as we keep it dark. LOL. Thank you for your kind thoughts. Have a blessed week.

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  10. Your positive attitude about the CPAP machine is refreshing, Pamela. I've often wondered if I were to need one sometime down the road if I'd be able to tolerate it. Sleep and I have such a great relationship, I would hate to jeopardize it. :)
    That was a great surprise that John had for Benton, too. When you're as busy as the kids are, it's always great to catch a break. Love the new dresser and the pup, too!
    Have a blessed week!

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    1. I am still hoping I can beat this thing regarding the CPap...I'm not a real happy camper about it, but I'm trying my best. One day at a time. However, I can't say that sleep and I had such a great relationship. I am a very restless sleeper, but mostly because of aches and pains in my arms, back, and other issues of urgency during the night. I'm praying Jesus will bring healing to all of the above. Thank you for your kind thoughts and prayers.

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  11. This post is a rollercoaster of emotions! So sorry about the alien situation, sounds very uncomfortable! And then I just listened to the song you linked and love it a lot. Seems perfect for The mri machine. I hate that you’ve been living with so much chronic pain, hopefully some helpful answers witH come soon.
    And then, the doggies! So so adorable and funny. H yes, another funny thing…we have matching bed comforters! Crazy!

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    1. Matching bed comforters? Really? I can't believe it! I bought this at Ollies'...I love the colors in it, but the comforter is kind of "small" for the bed even though it is a queen size. Mine looks really messy in these pictures since we were switching bedside tables, etc. I am amazed at the things we do alike sometimes.... :)

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  12. Isn't it so true that any time we invite Jesus into the situation, whatever it is, things are more bearable. You definitely put that to the test with the two MRIs this past week.

    Thanks for the update on the CPap matter. I was wondering. They have improved those machines. My first husband wore one for a year or so and it was bigger than what you have. Should I pray that your CPap needs are so great that you qualify for the implant version?

    You are in my prayers for all these matters. May you continue to be aware of God's grace in all that confronts you. (and I know you are)

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    1. Yes, when we "speak Jesus", He is right there in our presence. He definitely makes all things more bearable. I'm still working through the CPAP thing...time will tell. I'm not sure I want the have a surgical implant either, but again, time will tell. If I really need this thing that badly, then we shall see how things develop. One day at a time. Thank you for your prayers. You are a blessing.

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  13. What an ordeal, between the MRI(s) AND now the CPAP. I'm thinking you could be the 'bionic blogger' (lol) but no that's not right. At least, praise God modern technology's there for the asking!
    I'm loving the expression on Sugar's little face. No doubt, she and Spice thought they were on vacation, getting to explore your home.
    Thank you for brightening my Sunday!

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    1. I like that, "Bionic Blogger". LOL. I'm beginning to feel like it. Funny. I hope I can manage this thing, but the jury is still out on it for me. One day at a time. Yes, Sugar is a little heart melter for sure. And yes, they both love to come here and "explore". They are sweeties.

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  14. Pam: I am sorry you had to go through the MRI experience. That sleep apnea stuff is becoming more and more common. My hubby tried to take a test at the hospital down the street from us. He couldn't rest. I had to go get him about 2:00 in the morning, : I love the chest you have for the CPAP machine. Peace and blessings to you and yours. PS: Sugar took my heart away when she reacted to hearing it was time to go home.

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    1. The sleep apnea test now can be taken at home. That's what I did. That was a big help. I am sure I would not have been able to rest away from home either. A lot has changed in the technology regarding sleep apnea, but I am still not sure if I am going to be able to deal with this thing. Praying one day at a time. Yes, I love that sweet picture of Sugar. She really seemed to want to stay right there! She's a sweetheart. So is Spice, but Sugar and I have bonded more for some reason. I hope you have a blessed week.

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  15. Hi Pamela. MRIs are sure no fun, but I am glad you got it done and pray that the doctors can find a way to help you without surgery. I love that the song "I Speak Jesus" helped you stay calm during the MRI ordeal. I have been having a lot of neck and shoulder issues lately as well. Maybe part of aging? I hope the CPAP machine helps you out. Cute pictures of Sugar. I hope you have a good week.

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    1. Neck and shoulder issues are definitely a part of aging, and the breakdown of the cartilage between our vertebrae (discs). Also stress has a lot to do with the pain. Thank you for your kind thoughts. I hope the CPAP helps too, but the jury is still out for me on that one. LOL. I hope you have a good week as well. Stay safe and warm!

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  16. Have a beautiful Monday. Regine

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  17. You are so funny. Well I'd say if you stopped breathing you need a cPap. Isn't it something how you have to practically change a few things in order to accommodate the CPAP machine? Yeah it's good your son owns a shop!

    God Bless

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  18. I love that song and we have sung it at church. YES, Speak JESUS! Love all the pictures. Girl.. the word MRI sends me into CRAZY! Last time I had one was when I had the mini stroke and they winded up having to give me a low dosage relaxer, Christians music in the headphones and I would just pray. I was in that thing for an little under one hour! I am very claustrophobic. I do pray the CPAP works and that you do get some relief from the back and shoulder pain. Chronic pain is awful! I know first hand. And add a little age to that and well, there ya go! But, giving God the praise for another day of the life He has given us. Hugs and blessings, Cindy

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  19. Just trying to be helpful and don't mean to scare you, but I was on a Cpap because of not breathing and it was recalled though the company never alerted me. It was pushing cancer causing particles into our lungs. I threw it out. What I am getting at is please research the brand they give you thoroughly before you use it. I have been without mine now for a few years and I am trying breath right strips instead. I am looking into other makers of CPaps but, I am distrustful of them now.

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  20. Your sky photos are beautiful. I am so glad you got your MRI down. Hope you find some answers. Nice of you guys to get that tail light fixed. Sorry about the CPAC but I am sure you will get great results using it.

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  21. Yes, the nasal thingys help adn don't cover the nose, mouth or and mouth/nose. However, if your number is high and you move around a lot at night, your numbers might climbing. Moving around a lot can cause that piece to slip out of your nose. Be aware of that.

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  22. Oh goodness, so much in this post to talk about! Your morning views on the way to the MRI were beautiful. So awful to have to go through that experience twice, but I do LOVE the song I Speak Jesus! In fact, I made a video using that song a while back. You can listen to it on my youtube channel or here: https://studio.youtube.com/video/kfDMBSXPm_k/edit It is a powerful song, and I'm so glad at least one song was able to bless you! The CPAP machine looks great on you, and I hope that it will help, and also that the doctors will be able to add some treatment options for your pain! So sweet of your kids to bring you the dresser, and for John to help out with the taillight... family is such a blessing! Much love to you dear friend, have a wonderful Friday!

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