Jones Family Updates

Jeremiah 29:11(MSG), “I know what I’m doing. I have it all planned out—plans to take care of you, not abandon you, plans to give you the future you hope for.” Last month, we completed Kathie’s yearly dental exam which is done under anesthesia at a small hospital. I was concerned years ago that dental pain was not something that could be communicated to me so we just completed our 4 th yearly exam and cleaning. Her teeth are fine and I am confident that she is comfortable. Last Tuesday, Kathie and I attended a Mall Outing and shopped for Christmas presents, this is the 10 th Christmas I have shopped for our children and family. One of the difficult tasks is trying to maintain Kathie’s attention to detail at Christmas by thinking, “how would Kathie do this?” I continue to manage her care and sit at her bedside 5-6 evenings a week. I encourage her, rub her neck and shoulders, and always end the evening visit by saying, “goodnight Kath, I love you very much.” This is...

Last Friday night marked the last home football game that Hannah will cheer at. I was able to escort Hannah across the field and celebrate the milestone event with her.  I mark the holiday season as Halloween to New Year’s Day and it has begun. Due to schedule conflicts Kathie and I haven’t been able to attend the planned Monthly Outings through her care facility, although she was able to come home twice in October on two different Saturdays and we enjoyed the time at home. This Thursday, we will be at a specialty hospital for Kathie’s yearly dental exam. This day starts early and fulfills my concern that she is not experiencing any dental pain. In the case of a toothache, she wouldn’t be able to express specifically where the pain is so this exam is important. We appreciate your prayers on Thursday. "Under hopeless circumstances he hopefully believed" Romans 4:18. “Abraham's faith seemed to be in a thorough correspondence with the power and constant fait...

I enjoy the simple daily readings of Jesus Calling and the first person way it is written. The readings each morning remind me who I serve and the relationship I’m in.   “You have been on a long, uphill journey, and your energy is almost spent. Thought you have faltered at times, you have not let go of My hand…” Jesus Calling, October 9. Last night Kathie was so relaxed in her bath she fell asleep while I was washing her hair. At one point I stopped the bathing task and just let her soak and sleep in the warm bath. Her right arm, which has contractions, relaxed and I thanked God for how peaceful she looked. Unfortunately, I had to finish the bathing process and she let me know that she wasn’t pleased about being woken up from such a peaceful sleep. Once she was settled back in her bed, I rubbed her neck and she quickly fell asleep. I kissed her and whispered “goodnight.” This Saturday morning, I have Kathie scheduled for a home visit. I’m looking forward to this ev...

9 Years Last night, I kissed Kathie, said goodnight and then said, "I love you," once again there was no answer. This afternoon around 5:15pm will mark 9 years since our accident. I am thankful for all who have stood with us and for a God who hasn't left Kathie's side. "And Patience was willing to wait."--Pilgrim's Progress Your prayers have given us strength as we wait, Dave & Kathie  

At the end of July, Andy joined Madison, Hannah and I for our 5-day vacation trip to Cabo San Lucas. We had a great time in the sun, surf, pool and adventures. I was never good a vacationing, Kathie used to push me toward relaxing, I miss her on vacation and I must choose to enjoy my time off. I enjoyed our trip this year. After returning home, the Girls and I traveled to San Francisco to move Maddie into her new house for the next school year, and then Hannah and I returned home so Hannah could leave for her last Cheer Camp, I was an empty-nester for 48 hours before the Girls started coming home again. This Saturday, Maddie leaves for her fourth year at SFSU.  Today was Hannah’s last time going through high school registration; she starts her Senior Year on September 2 nd . Hannah and I are also in our last soccer season, my ninth year coaching girl’s soccer; we start our Season on September 6 th . Of course, this Labor Day, then the following September 5 th wi...

I was again able to bring Kathie home for a visit on June 14th. The hairstylist met us and we completed Kathie’s haircut and color at home. There are many complicated parts to this task and I’m blessed to be able to provide this service to Kathie. The added lift and bed make transfers more comfortable for both Kathie and I. The biggest reward is watching Kathie relax and fall asleep in the Jacuzzi tub afterward. The warm water jets almost lift her and allow her body to relax. We all like to refer to the “little things in life,” I watch for those moments knowing that Kathie is comfortable under my care. Recently, I contacted our summer nanny, who was with us the first summer after our accident. She commented on that summer and the good memories. I have been grateful for the young ladies who worked each summer with the Girls and helped schedule great activities. Summer time is Kathie’s favorite time of year and tomorrow Madison, Hannah and I will run in the Fun Run for the...