Blogging at McDonald's

I'm at McDonalds with Linda and my granddaughters. I've come to test my internet capabilities remote, since it appears that while in Eureka Springs, I will only have internet access at McDonald's.

What an age we live in! I can sit at MickeyD's while the grandkids play and be connected to the world. My prayers are with all of the victims of Ike during its massive path of destruction. I did hear from my good friend, Alan, who lives in the Houston area after the storm had passed. He said that all cell phones were out, the electricity was out (he has a generator), but for some reason his land-line phone was working. Lot's of tree limbs down.

Also, here are the updates on my good friend Laura in hospital in Little Rock:

Friday, Sept. 12, 2008
4:10 p.m.
Day 31

Laura is sitting up more in her wheel chair and is working hard in physical therapy. She's still being fed calories through the feeding tube but is able to have clear liquids and soft things like jello. She's in good spirits and is eager to work hard so that she can improve. Her pneumonia seems to be breaking up nicely and they continue to be agressive on her physical therapy. Laura had a "field trip" last night as we wheeled her down to the hospital lobby and walked with her walker. Laura has made many new friends (doctors, nurses, therapists, etc.) and seems to be well-known throughout the hospital. She has been extremely cooperative and polite all the way through this experience.

Thursday, September 11, 2008
3:00 p.m.

Today is day 30. Though Laura will be 22 years of age in a little less than four months, her condition allows her to be treated at Arkansas Children's Hospital. We're extremely blessed as we know there is no better place for Laura to be. She has excellent care.

Last night was a wonderful "graduation" for Laura as she was moved to the rehab floor. She has come such a long way. They had to readjust her feeding tube which was traumatic for her, but she did very well through the procedure. She was given clearance to begin drinking again today and she has had some Sprite. Laura continues to get nourishment from the feeding tube. They have kept Laura busy with Respiratory and Physical Therapy, so she's anything but bored.

Trela's mother, Helen, as well as Trela's sister and brother-in-law, Mike and Karla, are here with us. Other family members are waiting in line to come and help as needed, so we continue to have such great support from our family and friends.

Laura would want us to remember in our prayers the tragic events that happened on this day 7 years ago. Please pray for the families who have lost loved ones and that there will come an end to terrorism and war in this world. Also, we invite you to pray for those who have already been and will be affected by Hurricane Ike.

That's all from Mickey D's.

Grace and Peace,

SongWriter