First off, I miss you! dear blog and readers!
Thank you! Your prayers are a precious gift to me,...Worth more than riches!
Typing is still a frustrating game of one-handed hunt-and-peck:(
But you're worth it so I'll give it a shot this morning!
Today is the day I was supposed to go home and while I know we made the wise choice to stay longer and get stronger, I'm still feeling blue about it...especially as a couple of awesome women I'ne met sre headed home today...
May 16 is the new day to leave here and I'm praying time flies and I get my left arm fully back by then!
I have moved it a very little bit, but am a long way still from full use.. it's slow and totally frustrating! Rehab is the hardest work I have ever done!!! Not for sissies! or wimps for sure. If you can avoid it--do! It's no fun!
Except for riding the mechanical bull--something I did yesterday in PT and hope to again today...
M and el toro:
Mom and Dad are here now, friends are coming for lunch, Toben will come later and bring my sweet girlies too. Tomorrow I'm going to go home for a few hours in the afternoon and lie on my couch with my cat! A perfect Sunday afternoon to me..
Please pray..
1. For my left arm
2. For strength to rise quickly
3. Against boredom, frustration & discouragement
THANK YOU VERY MUCH!
Joanne
(Apologies for any remaining typos, edited by Papa)
Sometimes, it seems that God's timing for things is on a different time schedule than what we had hoped for. I am so happy to see your getting better and better every day...i've been stalking you because i've missed your words.
Praying for you....
And if you get too bored, you can think about writing a book about this part of your life journey! :)
Much love to you and your family....
Posted by: Isabel | April 30, 2011 at 08:46 AM
Joanne,
Dear! SO good to hear from you! I am sure this is a long, hard, frustrating journey! I am proud of you, and have been praying!
Love,
tami
Posted by: Tami Snowden | April 30, 2011 at 08:46 AM
I LOVE YOU!!!! So great to see you blog! Pumpkin loved the picture of you yesterday btw.
Posted by: Kimberly | April 30, 2011 at 08:47 AM
Joanne, May 16th is my birthday. This one will be all the more sweet because it will be the celebration of you returning home. :)
Praying for you!
Posted by: Teresa | April 30, 2011 at 08:47 AM
I missed you too Joanne! Praying for your healing.... Enjoy your day!
Posted by: MomPlusKid | April 30, 2011 at 08:47 AM
Love that you are writing, my friend!! Love that you got to ride a mechanical bull, too. Sounds like fun!
Praying scripture over you...in the name of Jesus' Christ of Nazareth, take your mat and go home. :) 100% recovery and no less. I love you. Praying for al of you.
Posted by: holly smith | April 30, 2011 at 08:51 AM
Woohooo! You are back! You, my friend, are a walking miracle and I praise God every time I think of you, see any type of post from or about you, or hear your name. God has quite a purpose for your life and with great anticipation, I sit back and watch it unfold. It's so beautiful. You are so beautiful. You have been a light in dark places. Can't wait to hear you are finally home. Some day, all the months in the hospital will seem like days. Truly, it will. God has a way of doing that for us. Have a wonderful weekend!
Posted by: Angie Platten | April 30, 2011 at 08:52 AM
Joanne! How wonderful to hear from you! This letter is so wonderful and strong! It shows how hard you have worked and how God truly listens to our prayers!
Still praying hard for you, in New Hampshire!
Maribeth
Posted by: Maribeth | April 30, 2011 at 09:08 AM
We all love you so much Joanne. Praying all the time for you.
Posted by: Bill Jensen | April 30, 2011 at 09:08 AM
It is so wonderful to see you back on your blog! Keep up your hard work - May 16 will be here before you know it. I'm continuing to pray for you every single day and praising God for your recovery.
Have a blissful Sunday with your family and kitty!
Posted by: Carol | April 30, 2011 at 09:10 AM
You're back blogging - fab fab fab - it feels like Christmas!
Enjoy your time home tomorrow.
I can only imagine your frustration at not going home today. Physio is certainly not for wimps - I used to call my physio a big bully - which she loved in a maddening kinda way :)
Much love and blessings - by the way your new haircut - it makes you look so young! It's a beautiful style.
L.x.
Posted by: Lynn | April 30, 2011 at 09:11 AM
You are such an inspiration to all of us! I get chills reading your post and stand in awe of our Great Big God, who continues to do miracle after miracle for you!! You are Wonder woman beautiful Joanne! My Sunday school class is still praying for you. You are always in my thoughts and prayers! Praying you have a great Sunday at home tomorrow and praying for your prayer requests.
Much love from on of your Siestas, :-)
Patty
Posted by: Patty | April 30, 2011 at 09:11 AM
Wow you're back! Well done Joanne. Can't wait to read about this next exciting new chapter for you x
Posted by: Charlie | April 30, 2011 at 09:16 AM
Oh Joanne--you've been in my prayers and thoughts and I'm so proud of how you are fighting. Keep up the good work and rely on our heavenly Father to give you the grace and encouragement you need!
With love from the Springs--Dawn
Posted by: dawn | April 30, 2011 at 09:18 AM
Exciting news! Good to see you back and writing here again. Always praying for you..
Posted by: Amy | April 30, 2011 at 09:18 AM
Continually praying for you sweet friend. :)
Posted by: Teri Butcher | April 30, 2011 at 09:18 AM
Thanks for this update, Joanne! So good to hear from you (we all love Toben, but you're the reason we're here!)
Posted by: anna | April 30, 2011 at 09:19 AM
Still praying for you, Joanne. I love that you posted, even if there are typos.
Posted by: Kayren | April 30, 2011 at 09:27 AM
praying for you guys. praising the Lord for the fun outings & the blessings that have come with those.
Posted by: summer | April 30, 2011 at 09:27 AM
Praising God for your amazing recovery. Enjoy your Sunday afternoon with your sofa, your kitty and your family! the Lord has truly blessed you all.
Posted by: Suzy Louk | April 30, 2011 at 09:37 AM
What an amazing blessing this was to read today from you. How far you have come! I pray for continued healing, strength and endurance. I also hope May 16th is here in the blink of an eye! Prayers and hugs.
Posted by: michelek | April 30, 2011 at 09:42 AM
You looked wonderful in your pictures!Have a great day at home!
Posted by: rhonda | April 30, 2011 at 09:59 AM
Hi! I am so excited you are posting again. I didn't start following you until I read a prayer request from a siesta on the Living Proof Ministries blog saying you had suffered a stroke. You are SUCH an INSPIRATION to me and I thank God that he placed your family (if only by internet blogs) in my life. I am continuously praying for your full recovery and your family!! God Bless You and Yours!!!
Posted by: Mary Anne Jester | April 30, 2011 at 10:02 AM
You can do it Joanne! Your left side and my right side we will keep working on improving!
“My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 2 Cor. 12:9
Love you! Enjoy your time at home tomorrow but know that staying busy in therapy will go fast and 2 weeks will be up.
Posted by: Sara G | April 30, 2011 at 10:07 AM
Joanne, it's so good to hear from you! I saw your pictures with your new haircut on your sister's blog, and you look amazing! Have a wonderful weekend. I will keep praying for all the things you asked for!
Love from So. Cal.
Posted by: Karene | April 30, 2011 at 10:10 AM
Joanne, May God who understands each need, who listens to every prayer, Bless you & keep you in His tender loving care.I will continually be praying this time flies by until May 16th on eagles wings.Have a blessed Sunday relaxing at home & remember you will be there everyday soon.
Posted by: Rayleine Chagoya | April 30, 2011 at 10:22 AM
Joanne you are one amazing woman! The Lord shines through you - His strength is being shown so clearly in your weakness - even as you are still recovering!
I'm blessed to read your blog and fb updates and appreciate your honesty and transparency.
We continue to pray for you and will keep doing so - it's encouraging to see so many huge answers to prayer, makes me believe in the power of prayer all the more.
Blessings from WA!
heidi st.john
Posted by: Heidi St. John | April 30, 2011 at 10:25 AM
I love your family for keeping us updated, but the posts from you are by far the most special. I will be praying about these specific requests. And I would love to hear more about El Toro! :-)
Posted by: Gail @ Pandemonium in the Parsonage | April 30, 2011 at 10:26 AM
I am so encouraged to see you blogging again, and up and about! I found you months ago via a Beth Moore link and have prayed for you often. It's amazing the handiwork of God! He designed our bodies to endure so much, and gives continued knowledge to the medical community so they can be His hands and feet (even when they don't know it!). I'm excited for you that you are awake and reconnecting with your family. Glory!
Posted by: Joyce | April 30, 2011 at 10:38 AM
Welcome back Joanne!!!! Big hugs to you. I will be praying for you.
Posted by: Jessica | April 30, 2011 at 10:57 AM
Welcome back Joanne. It is great to see you doing to well.
Posted by: Helen | April 30, 2011 at 11:38 AM
I think it's super you are back to blogging! Way to go!
I know how hard it's been for you. My brother had a major stroke and I was with him the whole time he was at the hospital and daily went to watch him in PT. You are right, not for wimps!
But, keep up your spirits. He had to stay in the hospital longer then he thought too but to be honest they told him it's because they saw so much improvement every day they wanted him there to get in as much work as his insurance would allow.
Yes it's good to be home but right now you are getting the best treatment. So be happy they want you to stay. It' means you are progressing every day!
Take it one day at a time. I know my brother would sometimes get down but then he looked back at how far he came and it helps to keep going. You have come a far way. Keep looking forward.
Don't worry about how long it is going to be until you are all better. Just worry about how good you do every day.
I'm proud of you. I know you don't know me, but I'm praying for you every day and have been watching your progress.
Big hugs!
Joanne
Posted by: Joanne Kennedy | April 30, 2011 at 11:39 AM
Continuing to pray for your complete and total physical restoration. Adding in the quickly-returning strength and endurance, patience, and more bull rides!
Peace,
Kim Feth
Apex, NC
Posted by: Kim Feth | April 30, 2011 at 11:41 AM
I just read the first comment and she echoed my thoughts! I see another book in your future! I own all of yours. I bought a couple of extras, Living Simply and Happily Ever After for my college daughter's hope chest! You remain in my prayers!
Posted by: Chris | April 30, 2011 at 11:41 AM
You are so amazing with all the work you have already done. I know that you will run your race well. I'm praying for you during these last two weeks. Enjoy your family today!
Hebrews 12:1-3
1) Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, 2) fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3) Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.
Posted by: Shannon | April 30, 2011 at 11:43 AM
Joanne... you are my hero!!!
God is working through your life in a mighty way!!!!
Posted by: To Know Him | April 30, 2011 at 11:46 AM
Fell asleep praying for you, woke up doing the same. The pictures on your sis' site: You're gorgeous! God is glorified in YOU! He shines through you so brilliantly! Sense strongly that something amazing is going to happen where you are as you work your hardest for Him, while you wait for home. You are just gorgeous! Grateful to be your sister in Christ, Linda
Posted by: Linda | April 30, 2011 at 11:51 AM
How wonderful to read your post! Toben is a great updater, and we've been so blessed that he's kept us informed, but nothing beats reading your writing! Keep working hard, Joanne! Praying for you!
Posted by: Angela | April 30, 2011 at 12:01 PM
Joanne,
What a great surprise! I am so glad you are blogging!
I have been thinking about you a lot. I did a giveaway of Misplacing God this past week...so know that a hungry woman will be reading your words and be inspired and encourage to go deeper with God. I am so proud of all the hard work you are doing and continue to do. Home is in sight...all my love,
Helen
Posted by: Helen at A Work of Heart | April 30, 2011 at 12:06 PM
It is quite amazing how far you have come, the extra stay will only help out in the progress. I know fully that you will be so much stronger in 16 days that that will help you to feel more secure to head home by then!! You are making such progress and it is so good. hang in there and keep your head up. The arm is coming back and the leg will follow I just know it. Sending lots of strength and love from Westcliffe. L
Posted by: Lisa Schubert | April 30, 2011 at 12:08 PM
I am SO proud of you!!!!!
Time will fly by. It will be the middle of May before we know it.
Love that you blogged! Enjoy your home visit!
Love you....
Siesta Valerie from Oklahoma
Posted by: Valerie | April 30, 2011 at 12:33 PM
This is going to sound odd, but I cleaned my house with a smile for you, Joanne. I thought, if you can do the hard work of PT, I can grin and bear some housework. So, no pity parties while scrubbing the toilets or mopping the floors - only prayers lifted for your left side to grow strong, your pain to be gone and complete restoration of your body for the glory of God, AMEN!
May 16 will be here soon and you'll have more strength as you move home. More prayers to come with each house cleaning in Fort Collins. :)
Posted by: Janet | April 30, 2011 at 12:42 PM
SO WONDERFUL TO HEAR FROM YOU AGAIN ON YOUR BLOG! You are amazing and inspiring, as always. We are continuing to pray....
Posted by: Pam Romo | April 30, 2011 at 12:45 PM
Joanne, So good to read your post today! I am sorry you aren't going home today. Praying with you that these days go fast and are amazingly productive.
Posted by: MK | April 30, 2011 at 12:56 PM
I am very excited to read this post! Praying for you, Joanne! You are such a miracle!
Posted by: Real Housewife of Naperville | April 30, 2011 at 01:12 PM
If God were to offer you a gold crown would you say you'd settle for silver because gold wasn't worth waiting for?
Now that is the crazy answer I might give, but you are so wise, you know that every day of effort and practice in rehab is leading you to the top prize. The prize that you are worthy of, hang tough and make the most of these 16 days of opportunity. Praying for you to push through the pain and finish strong.
Posted by: merlin | April 30, 2011 at 02:53 PM
Posting this again, just in case Toben missed it, before. Wonderful advancement for arm movement for stroke patients.
http://www.myomo.com/
Posted by: deedee | April 30, 2011 at 03:05 PM
Welcome back precious Joanne! What a special treat today, to have a post from you!
Posted by: Betsy | April 30, 2011 at 03:15 PM
Well lookie here at you! I am proud to see you giving us a post! PRAYING for you always! You are a true encouragement to all of us! Enjoy your Sunday afternoon at home relaxing on your sofa! May 16th is a good day, it is my Daddy's Birthday and my youngest Granddaughter's also:)
HUGS and PRAYERS from Georgia!
Posted by: Theresa | April 30, 2011 at 03:23 PM
Amazing Joanne! You are so strong and a beautiful witness of Christ's power to everyone! Thanks to your link on your blog, I now sponsor a child through Compassion and am LOVING it! Keep it up!
Posted by: Anonymous Prayer | April 30, 2011 at 03:50 PM
You're doing great, Joanne. Hang in there and keep the faith! May 16 will be here before you know it. Just keep working hard and impressing us. You are so loved - not only by us (your groupies) but also by our Heavenly Father who has plans for your good and productive future. Thank you for letting us share this experience with you. We are all stronger (in our faith) for it. Love and prayers from Kansas. Paige.
Posted by: Paigeszajnuk | April 30, 2011 at 04:00 PM
I wept with joy to see your photos on Kristen's Blog. And now checking in here to read your post!!! Praise the Lord.
I became a follower from LPM Blog. The journey has touched my heart in the best of ways.
Posted by: Patti | April 30, 2011 at 05:12 PM
Joanne, I'm not sure if it's called "lurking" or "stalking" (my teenage son says it's the latter) but I've been checking your blog daily since your stroke. You don't know me from Adam (I read about you on the LPM blog)but for some reason I've felt compelled to pray for you often and don't believe I've missed a day in checking your blog for any of your sweet husband's beautiful & touching updates. For a while there I found myself hooked on reading your previous blogs, going almost all of the way back and i've decided that we're now friends b/c I know you so well!! Seriously, you seem like an incredible wife, mother, sister, daughter, decorator, cook, leader and all around Woman of God (we're talking some serious Proverbs 31 action!) I pray that as you continue to recover (& I join with what appears to be all of Christian America in asking the Father for 100% recovery!) that you will know that your story is one of unusual & exceptional inspiration and you've moved us all in ways impossible to adequately express. May God continue to bless you and your entire family as you continue to shine for Him and & glorify Him as you all so beautifully have done throughout this whole unexpected ordeal!
In His Amazing Love, Karen from Michigan
Posted by: [email protected] | April 30, 2011 at 05:22 PM
God Bless You, Joanne... for going above and beyond, doing all you can to recover from your stroke.I cant help but want to encourage you along...superwoman! Sorry you arent heading home today, hang in there and before long you will be HOME for GOOD with greater strength and movement ONLY because YOU made the choice to stick with rehab a BIT LONGER. Your family will benefit greatly from that. Hang in there, we will encourage you along and pray for the blues to go away and yellows(sunshine) to brighten your day. Dont let Satan dampen your spirits, shout out, 'Satan get behind me' and continue pressing on.
Bless you for typing to us... IM just loving your blog. You are a true inspiriation. Praying you have a wonderful few hours at home!!!
Keep on keeping on......
heidi Carrico
Posted by: heidi carrico | April 30, 2011 at 06:06 PM
No apologies for typos, sweet lady! Just tickled pink to see your typing!!! :)
Posted by: Liz Reeves | April 30, 2011 at 07:49 PM
Joanne, So good to see you back in the saddle again. Still praying for you and counting down the days until May 16th and you can finally go home. Enjoy your quiet afternoon with the cat.
Posted by: Nanci Moy | April 30, 2011 at 08:28 PM
You are amazing and inspiring!! Really!! I came across your blog when things were so grim. I can't remember the link that brought me to you. I rejoice in your healing and your spirit to keep on living. Growing stronger everyday the best is yet to come. I believe that. Best to you and your sweet family. Godspeed!!
Posted by: jen | April 30, 2011 at 09:48 PM
We've never met. I was directed to your blog by way of prayer request from another blog. Yet somehow, today, it feels like I have heard from a long, lost friend and we just picked up where we left off. You look so beautiful in the pictures your super talented sister took. So beautiful. There is a spark in your eyes. A lovely spark. A mischievous spark. A spark that says, "I am here. Don't count me out. I have so much to give. So much to show you. So much love". I feel like I know you. I said a prayer at Mass just tonight specifically for your extra time in rehab, for your arm, for your girls. I do that a lot. Say prayers for you and your family. Because I feel like I know you. Because I feel like we are friends. Welcome back friend. Welcome back!
Posted by: Auntie Mip | April 30, 2011 at 10:23 PM
Hello Joanne! So nice to hear from you. You are a walking miracle. I am so thankful you get to go home for good really soon. I know it can't come soon enough for you! I'll be praying for you!
Posted by: Barbie | April 30, 2011 at 11:00 PM
I'm another one you have never met, but followed your blog now and then and was delighted by your faith and energy, so when call came out for emergency prayer for you at LPM blog, I was hooked! Your journey has been a testimony of "true grit!"...and amazing grace. What a gift to have you and your Papa write your first entry since that fateful day of your stroke, and what a testimony to the miracle power of our God! Your husband, and each one of your amazing family have contributed to the vitality of faith and believing God for impossibilities. I've been changed too as a result of your marathon journey, it's been a God thing! And that has happened to so many others too...Today is my husband and my 40th wedding anniversary and I'm sure should the LORD tarry you and Toben will celebrate that milestone in your lives too! Looking back on these days of trial and testing will bring a bitter sweet memory, as you bravely carve out the lives ahead of you, and the destiny God intends for those who know and believe Him. I love your pic's on your sisters blog and the beauty and depth and determination I see.
Posted by: Pam Houston | May 01, 2011 at 06:35 AM
I've never left a comment but I want you to know that I have been following your journey since your stroke and you and your family are an inspiration to me!
Something that came to me when I read your blog this morning is that people come into our lives for a reason. That also goes the other way. We come into people's lives for a reason, even if we never learn of that reason. While you are still in rehab, remember that you are not only there for your own recovery and benefit. I have no doubt you are there to be in someone's life at this time. You may never know or even get a hint at the impact you are or will have on them, but you will. I have no doubt there are people there, patients or employees(what an impersonal word for the work they do, hope you have a better word), or people who may be coming there who you will have an important place in their and/or their families lives.
So while I am sure it so hard to be away from home and so lonely and boring at times, know that you are an important guest in peoples lives and you have no idea how YOU being there can change their lives in some amazing way that only YOU can do.
"Be grateful for whoever comes, because each guest has been sent as a guide from beyond." ~Rumi
For the next 16 days don't forget for one minute that not only are people guests in your life to help you, but you are a guest in other people's lives. Don't under estimate yourself and your importance while you are there :)
Janis
Posted by: Janis | May 01, 2011 at 06:40 AM
Delighted to see your post this morning, Joanne. Haven't posted previously, but check your site daily. My prayers have been continually with you, and my heart jumped for joy when I saw your post this morning. Our God is so wonderfully able and good. I know this is a supremely difficult journey. My prayers will not cease. Our awesome God will continue to provide wisdom to you, your family, friends and caregivers, while He continues to strengthen and protect you. To Him be the glory!
Janet from Washington (YT's mom)
Posted by: Janet Beaver | May 01, 2011 at 07:08 AM
Your a Miracle :o)
Love n MANY Blessings to lovely you and your lovely family.
OUR GOD is a AWESOME God.
Lots o Love as always
Posted by: Ruthy :o) | May 01, 2011 at 08:00 AM
So happy to see you post. Don't worry about typos. I have more than you and I use two hands. I am so glad to see pictures of you, too. You look good, girl. You stay in my prayers and your family too, Enjoy your day with the couch and the cat!
Posted by: Rose | May 01, 2011 at 08:05 AM
Dearest Joanne, just saw the pictures of you on Kristen's blog. All I can say is you are absolutely amazing! Your new hair cut is b-e-a-u-t-i-f-u-l!!! Joanne I am so amazed at how God has healed your body and also at how hard you have worked to get to where you are today! I can only imagine how difficult it must be for you...but only 15 more sleeps to go (as my kids would say). The end of hospital time is so close. Don't give up now my friend. I will continue to pray for you for your body, mind and spirit and of course for your lovely family too! Many (((HUGS))) to you! Erin from Canada :o)
Posted by: erin | May 01, 2011 at 10:13 AM
Such a MIRACLE to hear from you on here! God is amazing and faithful to do so much more than we can hope, dream or even imagine. Thanks for continuing to share your story with us. It is an inspiration and a beautiful testimony to the goodness of the Lord!
Posted by: glorygirl | May 01, 2011 at 11:46 AM
Haha!!! This is wonderful to read your words Joanne! Praise God!
Don't fret about not going home yet, God's timing is always perfect, trust Him.
Seeing this email come in with your update just got my heart pounding. I love reading Toben's update's but I just think this is fantastic that you are attempting the key board with one hand, what a determined girl you are.
There is something so healing about a cat sitting on your chest while you are lying down. I hope you had a great time at home and your cat was cooperating, cat's can be fickle sometimes. :P
Praying and praying for you,
<><
Posted by: Child of God | May 01, 2011 at 02:22 PM
Joann, I'm like others following your story. I first read about you on the LPM blog right after your stroke. Since then, I've been following your progress almost daily - and praying for you & your family. I'm a cancer survivor myself & I want you to know -- I'm pulling for you, girl! God is faithful - and your story has blessed me. In prayer - a friend from South Carolina! :)
Posted by: Kathy Dublin | May 01, 2011 at 02:29 PM
Joanne, you are a living Miracle!! God is so good!! I hope you had an awesome day at home today!! May 16 is our 21st Wedding anniversary so we will also celebrate YOU that day!! I will continue to pray for you to heal completely!! 100% because God can do it!! Do it Lord!!
Keep up the hard work and before you know it you will be back home!!!
Thanking God for that day, in advance!!!
Posted by: Colette | May 01, 2011 at 04:55 PM
Love you, girl! So proud of you!!
Posted by: Marla Taviano | May 01, 2011 at 06:07 PM
Praying that you get stronger as each day passes Joanne and that your left side gets better with each day.
Posted by: Patty | May 01, 2011 at 08:58 PM
I've missed hearing from you on here, so what a pleasant surprise to read your post today. I will continue to pray for your left arm and its continued strengthening as well as your perseverance to finish strong in rehab. What a blessing you are Joanne! Best wishes from AZ.
Posted by: Christine H. | May 02, 2011 at 05:29 AM
Oh Joanne...You hang in there girl!! You are amazing and strong and an inspiration to people all over the world. I am sending many prayers and well wishes your way my fellow runner. And by the way...I have total confidence that you'll be back out there pounding the pavement in your running shoes someday soon. All my best...your prayer whisperer from the Midwest, Robyn
Posted by: Robyn | May 02, 2011 at 06:43 AM
Praise God, it is amazing seeing you today after what you've been through! Still praying and praising!
Posted by: Jennifer Huber | May 02, 2011 at 08:59 AM
Praying for you all Joanne! So happy to read post from you! You rock!
Posted by: julie | May 02, 2011 at 11:21 AM
How lovely to read a post written by you Joanne. You are doing so well, I'm sure it must be frustrating to have your stay in hospital extended but I am equally sure the time and care will do you good.
You have my prayers for your arm, for strength and for endurance. You are running the good race, keep on till the end and the reward will be beyond measure.
Lynn
Posted by: Penbleth | May 02, 2011 at 01:20 PM
Walking,talking, typing miracle you are!! Praise God.
Posted by: Drenea Starbuck | May 02, 2011 at 01:31 PM
It is so good to hear from you Joanne! I will pray that May 16th will come super fast and that you will be home soon. May God continue to grant you His strength for each moment, even the ones that seem to stretch forever.
Posted by: Anuja | May 02, 2011 at 05:27 PM
My heart jumped when I saw that you wrote! I have been following your journey since I first heard of your stroke through Angie Smith's blog. Praying for you Joanne, so wonderful to hear from you!!!!!
Posted by: Erin | May 02, 2011 at 06:32 PM
Have been following your story through the link on Reminisce: This & That.
Love, love, love that you're able to post!! So proud of your hard work. Hope that you had a wonderful afternoon just loving on your kitty!
Posted by: Dianna | May 02, 2011 at 07:04 PM
We serve a fantastic God! I know the Lord has some great plans for you and he know's your up to the task. What a testimony you have and will have when your out of there. I admire you and your gumption. I know you have some more tough days ahead of you but you have what it takes to make it thru, after all you have an AMAZING GOD on your side! God is in control! Love ya
Posted by: Lisa | May 03, 2011 at 04:59 AM
You, my dear, are an amazing gift from God!
I started reading your blod after I read of your need of prayer on Beth Moore's blog and I have been reading and praying ever since!
I also read your sister's blog and have sent her a few comments. She is SO great...makes me wish I had a sister!
So, happy about your arm! You are a great encouragement to others. Keep it up and i'll keep praying for your beautiful family!
Cari in Iowa
Posted by: Cari Minton | May 03, 2011 at 12:44 PM
Praying for you and your family tonight. What a beautiful miracle you are my friend!! God will be with you every step of this journey. I know sometimes the bumps in road seem like mountains and that they are never ending but know that with each step you are closer to home. Praying for strength and encouragement for you, Tobian and the children. The Lord is near each one of you!
Isaiah 41:9-11 You are my servant, I have chosen you and not rejected you. Do not fear for I am with you; Do not anxiously look ablut you for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you.
Under His Wings,
Jeannie
Posted by: jeannie fuller | May 03, 2011 at 03:03 PM
You are an inspiration, Joanne. My family is praying for you!! Cling to Jesus! =)
Blessings of healing and love,
Katie
Posted by: K D | May 03, 2011 at 05:44 PM
Yea Joanne! It is so good to see pictures of you and what you have accomplished. Pat yourself on the back for how far you have come. What a testimony God has for you.
Blessings,
Kendra
www.abusywomanslife.com
Posted by: Kendra @ www.abusywomanslife.com | May 03, 2011 at 06:44 PM
hooray for joanne!! so great to "see" you on the blog again! PRAYING!!
Posted by: katie | May 03, 2011 at 08:04 PM
Joanne, I have so missed you! Love hearing from you, think of you & pray for you all the time!
Love you so much!
Can't wait for you to be able to be back home & curled up in your own chair/house. (I still remember a picture you posted once of your quiet time spot).
Work hard so you can get home!
Thanks so much for writing to us!
Posted by: Kristy | May 04, 2011 at 07:25 AM
Hi Joanne,
Hope you are doing good and hanging in there as you only have so many days left then you are HOME for good!!! By the way... where is your updates? haaaaaaaaaa!!! I like to bug you.:)
Alright, maybe Ill check on you later.:)
Sorry for the pressure. ha.
Heidi
Posted by: heidi carrico | May 04, 2011 at 12:29 PM
Good morning sweet Joanne!
I'm praying for you friend and believing God to see you through!!! He has carried you so very far and will sustain you these last days before you do go home.
We passed Joanne's fabrics yesterday and my oldest said.."is that named after your friend Joanne? And then said...how is she?" You mean something to all of us sister!!
So much love,
Fran
Posted by: Fran | May 05, 2011 at 05:04 AM
Joanne,
I continue to be blessed by your progress. I have to say, I almost feel "guilty" praying for you because it seems it blesses me just as much, if not more - LOL
How amazing that you are "riding the bull" - WOW! Did that bring back memories! My youngest brother used to ride the "real deal" bulls (not mechanical ones) back in his younger days. I'm glad you are enjoying "El Toro" :)
I will definitely be praying for your left arm, for strength and I will be praying AGAINST boredom, frustration & discouragement.
In His love,
Kathryn
Posted by: Kathryn71459 | May 05, 2011 at 06:26 PM
DH and I have been daily praying for you and your family and will continue to do so!! Rejoicing on your progress!
Posted by: Treadlemusic.wordpress.com | May 05, 2011 at 07:02 PM
so good to hear you. we are praying for you lots of love
Posted by: Eveline from the Netherlands! | May 07, 2011 at 12:20 PM
how wonderful, your positive attitude is truely motivating to all! we have had many prayers for you here in Australia!
Yes keep up the good work!
Annali
Posted by: Annali Weekes | May 11, 2011 at 03:52 PM
Hi, Joanne, I am here via Maribeth and wanted to send you my wishes for your recovery and much sunshine from Spain.
Posted by: Mar | May 17, 2011 at 11:22 PM