1-31-06

Adversity Introduces A Man to Himself. Very true words.

It brings a tear into my eyes
When I begin to realize
I've cried so much Since you've been gone
I guess I'm drowning in my own tears
I know it's true into each life some rain must pour
I'm so blue here without you
It keeps raining more and more
Ray Charles Drowning In My Own Tears

Your assignment for today(should you choose to accept it) is to read Romans 5 vs 1 thru 5 and then tell me your thoughts. If you so choose.

Mark Kamps mother passed away this morning. As many of you know Mark has been a great help to me during this time. Mark and family, my thoughts and prayers are with you. What great friends you and Angela have been. May God comfort you.

Moriah had another very good day today!!! I spent a couple hours with her this morning. The therapists had her sitting up on the bed which was cool. She looked so much more alive. She also opened her eyes slightly again for several minutes while I was in there. The therapists said that her muscle tone is very good. She continues to move alot and moved her right arm several times while I was there. This is good as she has mainly moved her left arm in the past. One of the nurses called me later this afternoon to tell me she was moving rooms(again) and that she had opened her eyes and kept them open for several minutes. May God's grace continue this path to recovery. She is now on 8JC that's floor 8 John Colloton Pavilion. Still use elevator H. I don't know the room number at this time. We are starting to look for rehab locations which probably will not be in Iowa City. I will let you know when and where. It's going to involve some traveling. Again this is a long uphill climb so please hang in there with me. I couldn't do it without all of your prayers and help. If a man is measured by the quality of his friends, I am in great shape!!

Congratulations to Grant and Heather Robbins on the birth of their first child. Grandpa Harry!!
Grandma Lois!! Cyclone or Hawkeye??? Hope to see you all in the fall for tailgating.

Sonny Boy Williamson once said
You talk about your woman, I wish you could see mine
Every time she starts lovin, she brings eyesight to the blind!!!!!!

Love ya all
God Bless
Dale

1-30-06

Lament and mourn and and weep. Let your laughter be turned into mourning and your joy into dejection. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you!
James C4 v1-2

BALDNESS is considered in Scripture a defect marring personal beauty. Must be one of those mis-interpretations!!!!

Well a little good news today. Moriah's pupils responded a little better today. Tonight I had left the room to talk to Mary's parents on the phone. When I returned the nurse was back in the room and we were chatting, and Moriah had her left eye partially open for several minutes. Please, Please, Please, continue your prayers. This could be a fight much longer than any of us realize. I pray that these are small steps on the road to recovery.

My good friend Mark Kamps mom is gravely ill. Please say a prayer for Mark and his family. May God grant you comfort as you helped comfort me.

I've talked a lot about the journey that this has been, and where am I headed and what will happen down the road.
Here's some more words from J.J. Cale in regards to that,

Lonesome train that I ride all day
Lonesome train that I ride all day
Since I lost my woman, I lost my way
Mr Conductor where is this train bound?
Is it headed up, or is it headed down?
Lucky for me I'm on the sunny side
Lucky for me I'm on the sunny side
Since I lost my woman, it's a lonesome ride

Wow, been listening to that song for a long time and now it makes sense!!

Goodnight and God Bless all of you.
Faith and Hope
Peace, Out
Dale

1-30-06

You give it up to faith
You take it to the heart
But the waaaaaaaaaaaait is the hardest part.
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers

No changes this weekend with Moriah's condition. She's in her new room and visiting hours really are not restricted, so please stop by. Tom Petty''s words are so true.

I spent part of Sunday with Jawon, We went to Menards, Church, Mcdonalds, The Hospital, and then watched Finding Nemo. It's hard to think that a 3 year old can offer comfort, but he did. His questions and view of this situation is heartbreaking and uplifting at the same time. What do you tell a 3 year old when the tears start falling and he asks why are you crying?? Then he tells me that God will take care of us. Of course that makes me cry more and He wants to give me a big kiss!! His words to Moriah at the hospital were so simple and so true. What a kid!!!!

Have a great day
God Bless
Dale

Moving Day

Moriah is in the process of moving. She is going to the sixth floor at the John Colloton Pavillion.
So she's at 6jc west room 26 bed 2. Take elevator H.
Keep the Faith
Dale

1-27-06

Hear my prayer, O Lord;
let my cry come to you.
Do not hide your face from me
in the day of my distress;
Incline your ear to me;
answer me speedily in the day
when I call.
Psalm 102

Moriah is all set to move to the Neuro floor as soon as a room becomes available. She continues to look well. They took out the ICP post and drain today which is good. That means they believe that she is processing the brain fluid well enough on her own and that the brain pressure is not an issue at thist time. She will be on floor 6 off of elevator H. I will let you all know what room she is in as soon as I know. A lot of you have asked what her chances are, the answer is that we don't know and neither do the doctors. It's somewhere between 1 and 100. What can we do?? Not a lot, continue your prayers and the medical staff will give her the support she needs to try and beat this. It's all in God's hands now and I trust that he will do what's best for her and make the decsions needed. There is always hope.

Danielle flys out to Philly for a week so please pray for a safe journey.

I returned a favor today as I let in a car in front of me enter the road way in a traffic jam, then I notice those Cyclone license plates!!! The lord does work in mysterious ways.

I just purchased John Prine's new album and listened to it for the first time. It's only available online at this time, so you won't see it in the stores. The first song hit me like a ton of bricks.

Glory of True Love
By John Prine and Roger Cook

Oh the glory of true love
Is a wild and precious thing
It don't grown on old magnolias
Or only blossom in the spring
No the glory of true love
Is it will last your whole life through
Never will go out of fashion
Always will look good on you

You can climb the highest mountain
Touch the moon and stars above
But Old Faithful's just a fountain
Compared to the glory of true love

Thank you Mary for makin me look good!!!

May God Bless all of you as I have been blessed.
Have a great weekend.
Go Hawks.
You people are amazing, I can't believe that this happend to me and I can't believe how all of you have touched my life. The glory of true love is an amazing thing!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Dale

1-26-06

Moriah's condition remains somewhat the same. A bit of good news. It appears that she is processing the fluid in her brain on her own, so they will be taking out the drain and monitoring post today or tomorrow. Most likely she will be moving to the neuro wing, I'll let everyone know when that happens.
I also had a fairly lengthy discussion with the neuro surgeon. He is in agreement that we need to continue what we're doing and hope that her brain re-connects. He doesn't feel that there is any major damage to the brain tissue so that is good. He believes that the unconsciousnos is being caused by a stretch involving the brain stem. She has a chance but no one really knows how good of one. Again, this is going to be a long battle, so please continue your prayers.
God Bless all of you,
Dale

1-24-06

For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope.
Jeremiah 29 v11

There is always hope,
Moriah continues her fight in courageous fashion. She is still twitching and moving some. Again all her vitals look great at this time. The fluid off of her brain was tested today and looked fine. The next step will be wether to take out the drain or not. Sounds like that could be a fairly lengthy process of a couple weeks of more. Basically they need to figure out if she can handle the fluid process in her head on her own. If she can they will slowly wean her off of the drain and the post that's in her head. If the pressure doesn't rise when they do this then they will proceed slowly to take it out. They might do an EEG here in the next couple of days which could tell us a lot as to what might happen down the road, so pray for good results.

I'm still am amazed at the amount of people that continue to pray for Moriah. This has become an international event. From the States to Iraq and other parts of the world. From Canada to South America. This truly speaks to the grace that God has bestowed on us. WOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Went and watched the Hawks beat the Hoosiers tonight!!! Thanks TA for the tickets. The girls we sat with had so much fun , they will probably want us to sit there again!!!!!!!!!!!!! Sorry Chad and Terry! I haven't watch the Hawks lose in person yet this year, so maybe they should take me on a road trip. Hawkeye Nation continues to pray for us. I will be forever ever indebted to Gary Dolphin for mentioning our families plight before a couple of the Hawkeye games. Many people that I know told me that they first heard of this situation before the games. Without any disrespect to anyone, Hawkeye fans, YOU ARE THE BEST!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Back when I was a much younger man I kind of went thru a bluegrass stage. That soundtrack from "Oh Brother" really reminded me of that type of music. From the Ozark Mountain Daredevils, Earl Scruggs and the Boys, Doc Watson, (hey guys remember Southbound Passenger Train!) This is from Alison Kraus and Gillian Welch off of the "Oh Brother" soundtrack.

Some bright morning when this life is over
I'll fly away
To that home on God's celestial shore
I'll fly away
I'll fly away old glory I'll fly away
When I die hallelujah bye and bye I'll fly away
When the shadows of this life have gone I'll fly away
Like a Bird from these prison walls I'll fly, I'll fly away
I''ll fly away old glory I'll fly away
When I die hallelujah bye and bye I'll fly away
Oh how glad and happy when we meet
I'll fly away
No more gall darn schackles on my feet
I'll fly away
I'll fly away old glory I'll fly away
When I die hallelujah bye and bye I'll fly away
I''ll fly away I'll fly away old glory
When I die hallujah bye and bye I'll fly away
Just a few more weary days and then I'll fly away
To a land where joys will never end
I'll fly away

I hope these keep inspiring you.
May God grant you many blessings
Dale

1-23-06

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
Hebrews 11 v1

Not a lot new, again Moriah is moving a little her eyes still flutter. Keep praying as the long fight continues. She has some issues with her throat and mucus and I won't bore you with the details.
They might do an EEG here shortly to see if anythings going on in her head. Keep praying, please!!!! She still looks so good.

I guess the monotony of all of this is setting in and some things get easier and some things get harder. Again thanks to all of you for your support.

Oh how I'm suffering, in my mind
Whoa, you keep me worying, Lord all the time
I try to smile but my friends all leave,
But nothin I could do to to ease, my suffering mind
Hurt me so bad, to be losing the one I love
I cry, I cry, I cry and pray, to the good Lord up above
But where can I find , someone that could ease my suffering mind?

words by Guitar Slim performed by the great Buddy Guy


Why don't you live so, God can use you, anywhere Lord, anytime
Why don't you think so, God can use you, anywhere Lord, anytime
Why don't you walk so, God can use you, anywhere Lord, anytime
Why don't you mourn so, God can use you, anywhere Lord, anytime
Why don't you sing so, God can use you, anywhere Lord, anytime

Mckinley Morganfield aka Muddy Waters

Keep the Faith, keep prayin
God Bless
Dale

1-22-06

Change of Times

To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:
A time fo be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted;
A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up;
A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;
A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;
A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away;
A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;
A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace.
Ecclesiastes 3 v 1-8

"To me there are three things everyone should do every day. Number one is laugh, Number two is to spend some time in thought. Number three, you should have your emotions move you to tears, If you Laugh, Think, and Cry, that's a heck of a day."
Jim Valvano

Moriah continues her fight. She moved around quite a bit today, but she continues to be unconscious. She seems to be coughing more which is good, hopefully she is getting her gag reflex back which would be a very good thing. She continues to flutter her eyes at times and move her mouth some. She just looks like she could wake up at any time which of course would be about the coolest thing ever, so keep praying for that. Now is not the time to give up. No major changes in her condition.

Thank you to all of you that wished her a happy birthday #24!!!

In regards to the fundraiser on Friday night at Hills Bank in Coralville, I wish I had some words to describe it. It was very overwhleming as to the response and the involvement of anyone who had anything to do with this event. My hope and prayer is that Moriah will some day see all that was done in her behalf and to honor her mother.
Hills Bank-You are an amazing group of people. I feel undeserving of the blessings that you have bestowed on us. Somehow, some way I will find a way to thank all of you.

I'm going to close tonight with some lyrics from the sound track of "O Brother, Where out Thou"
one of my favorite movies of all time. It's a great CD with it's roots in Bluegrass, Gospel, and Country Music. "Big Rock Candy Mountain" is a song that's been around since the 20"s. I prefer to call it a Hobo's take on heaven. Hope you enjoy it.
God Bless all of you as you have blessed me.
Dale

One evenin as the sun went down and the jungle fire was burnin
Down the track came a hobo hikin and he said "Boys I'm not turnin"
I'm headin for a land that's far away beside the crystal fountain, so come with me
We'll go and see the Big Rock Candy Mountain

In the Big Rock Candy Mountains, there's a land that's fair and bright
Where the handouts grow on bushes and you sleep out every night
Where the boxcars all are empty and the sun shines every day on the birds and the bees,
and the cigarette trees, and the lemonade springs where the blubirds sings
In the Big Rock Cany Mountains.

In the Big Rock Candy Mountains,
All the cops have wooden legs, and the bulldogs all have rubber teeth
And the hens lay soft boiled eggs,
The farmers trees are full of fruit, and the barns are full of hay
Oh I'm bound to go where there is no snow, where the rain don't fall and the wind don't blow
In the Big Rock Candy Mountains.

In the Big Rock Candy Mountains, you never change your socks, and the little steams of alcohol
Come a tricklin down the rocks
The brakeman have to tip their hats and the railroad bulls are blind
There's a lake of stew and of whiskey too, you can paddle around in a big canoe
In the Big Rock Candy Mountains

In the Big Rock Candy Mountains, the jails are made of tin, and you can walk right out
As soon as you walk in
There ain't no short handled shovels, no axes, saws, or picks
I'm going to stay where you sleep all day, where they hang the guy that invented the work
In the Big Rock Candy Mountains

I'll see you all this comin fall in
THE BIG ROCK CANDY MOUNTAINS

A lot of things depend on your perspective
Dale

1-19-06

I got a glimpse of the items that will be available at the auction/raffle tomorrow night. I am truly stunned at out friends and the community's generosity. It was hard for me to fight back the tears when seeing all of this. As my friend Laird and I would say "OUTSTANDING!!!" It reminded me of the responsibility that we have to our true friends. I will not forget any of you.

"Those who withold kindness from a friend forsake the fear of the Almighty.
Job 6 v14
quite a responsibility don't you think??

Not a lot new with Moriah's condition. She moved quite a bit both times that I visited her today. They still are thinking about moving her. They are a little concerned with some clogging in her throat occasionaly, that needs to be suctioned out. They want to make sure that she gets that cleared, and actually she has done much better lately. She still looks so good! It looks to me like somethings going on inside that head of hers. Please continue your prayers as it gives us all strength. Please hang in there with me for the long haul!!!

I would like to thank some of you who have visited Moriah on a regular basis. This isn't all inclusive so don't feel bad if I left you out or forgot! I'll catch up to you.

The Hills Bank crew. Teresa and Bev and all the rest of you. Wow what a group.

Amber G. I read what you wrote in the guestbook in the room today and cried. I'll never forget you two goofballs swimming together.

The Shermans. Hilah, Thanks to you and your mom for your thoughts and prayers.

Moriah's friends. Katherine, Maureen, Amy, Bock, JJ, Amber and I know there are more. Don't ever underestimate the strength that Mojo get's from you.

Mark and Angela Thank you, Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I'd also like to thank the lady that let me turn in front of her this morning. I'd still be sitting at Hardee's!! See it is the little things. I gave one of those guys on the corner with a sign the spare change in my pocket today. Next time you see one give them a buck. You might be surprised how it makes you feel. And if you think it's a scam don't worry about it!! That's God's problem.

I'm going to leave you with several lyrics tonight as I don't think I will do this for the next few days. I have a lot of thoughts dancing in my head and here are a few of them. Hope to see you tomorrow night , if not may God bless you as much as you have all blessed me.

I was up all night socializing
Trying to keep the latent depression
from crystalizing!
Now the the Sun is lurking behind the Scarbourough horizon,
And you're not even here,
on the coldest night of the year

Bruce Cockburn "Coldest Night of the Year"


If you're problems won't go away
And your'e worried both night and day
Hand it over
Get on your knees and pray
If you're sick, feeling low
Got no money, got nowhere to go
Hand it over, Get on your knees and pray
Ain't no mountain you can't climb
Ain't no answer you can't find
All you need is a hand to hold
It'll heal your body and feed your soul
The road is dark and you can't find your way
Just let he spirit light the way
Hand it over
Get on on your knees and pray

Keb Mo "Hand it Over"


You still with me???????????? As my Dad would say in Social Studies "Wake up Class!"

Somewhere out there is a place that's cool
Where peace and balance are the rule
Working toward a future like some kind of mystic jewel,

And waiting for a
And waiting for a
And waiting for a miracle

Your rub your palm on the grimy pain
In the hope that you can see
In the hope that you can be

You stand up proud and pretend your strong
Like the ones who die
Like the ones who cry
Trying to set the Angels into space

While waiting for a
While waiting for a
While waiting for a miracle

Bruce Cockburn "Waiting for a Miracle"


Hope our paths cross soon
Goodnight
God Bless all of You

Dale

1-18-06

Blessed are those who mourn,
for they will be comforted.
Matthew 5 v4

Just going to give you a quick update as I watched the Hawks beat the Gophers in the first 3 overtime game in the history of Carver Hawkeye Arena!! I think I have officially become a Hawk fan now as the connection that I have to this town now is overwhleming. Go Hawks!!

Not much has changed in regards to Moriah's condition. She is still in SICU and they are considering moving her in the next couple of days. But that's been contemplated before. Her movements have remained the same. Please continue your prayers to heal this beautiful young woman!!

I will try to do a more lengthy update tomorrow. Hope to see many of you Friday evening. For those of you who will not be there, I know you will be there in spirit.

God Bless
Goodnight.
Dale

1-17-06

But I am lowly and in pain;
let your salvation, O God,
protect me.
Psalm 69 v29

Moriah took another babystep on Monday. She responded to some localized pain by moving her arms. She also moves her legs at times when they pinch under her toes. Her eyes flutter a little more and she moves her mouth some. So again we hope this is another step to recovery. She needs your visits and your prayers, so please continue them.

I would like to thank in advance those of you who are supporting the benefit on Friday. The response humbles me. Words can not express my gratitude. My heart has been broken but touched by all of you. I'm trying to take things a day at a time, but it's really hard not to to think farther down the road.

Have a great and inspiring day!!

A Love that runs away from me
Dreams that just won't let me be
Blues that keep on bothering me
Chains that just won't set me free
So far away from you and all your charm
Just out of reach of my two empty arms

Each night in my dreams I see your face
Memories and time cannot erase
Then I awake and find you're gone
Then I'm so blue and all alone
So far away from you so sweet and warm
Just out of reach of my two empty arms

Solomon Burke Just Out Of Reach(Of My Two Empty Arms)

God Bless All Of You
Dale

Sunday

but those who wait for the Lord
shall renew their strength
they shall mount up with wings like eagles
they shall run and not be weary
they shall walk and no be faint
Isaiah 40 - 31

Not a lot new on Moriah but hopefully some good news. They did drain some fluid off of her brain the last 24 hours and it appears normal, whatever that means. She also moved her right arm for the first time, and although it's not official one of the nurses said she opened her left eye slightly this afternoon. We certainly hope and pray that this is a sign of things to come She continues to look as beautiful as ever. I know that your visits mean a lot to her, so please continue them as much as possible and talk to her when you are in the room. Her vitals remain good and she continues to breath on her own. They have not moved her yet and may not as they can give her some extra attention where she's at now. The roller coaster continues.

I continue to be completely humbled by everyones generosity. I can not put into words how this has made me feel. All of you by your thoughts, words, prayers, and deeds have truly touched me. Obviously I will probably never quite be the same after all of this, but some of that is due to how I have been touched. I certainly will never look at the world quite the same.

Laird and Sandy, thank you for visiting me this weekend. I cried when you left, not because I miss you(which I do) but because your friendship has touched me so deeply.

Danielle and I took Jawon and Laron their Christmas gifts on Saturday. I hope that I can remain an influence in their lives. It proves the old adage true, when you help someone out you get more in return. Those little guys and Mary's love for them has taught me so much. Please pray for them and their family.

Please keep us in your prayers as Moriah continues the fight.

I can taste your lipstick in the wine
I can fell your heartbeat close to mine
With your love wrapped around me
I'm silent and still
I know that this love is real
Someone should tell our dreams when love is gone
While still in slumber memories linger on
Sometimes I lie awake in bed till dawn
Thinking of you
Now you're gone
Tender is the heart that sleeps in rest
Tender is the hope of tenderness
I KNOW THAT THIS LOVE IS REAL

John Prine This Love is Real

Goodnight

1-14

I'm taking today off
please check tomorrow evening
Dale
Keep the Faith

update 1-13-06 full moon Friday the 13th!!!

Remember when Peter Finch stuck his head out the window in the movie "Network" and yelled
"I'm mad as hell and I'm not going to take it any more" Sometimes I feel like that. OK now I feel better.


Fly like an eagle up to the sky
Fly like an eagle to the heavens high
In this up and downs Going round and round
Life keeps going on, time goes by
When your time comes around
Let nothing hold you down
You can spread your wings and fly!!!!!!

Jimmy Cliff Soar Like an Eagle Album Hanging Fire
I like to think of Jimmy as the God father of Reggae, he set the stage for Marley and all who followed. Check out his song "Many Rivers to Cross" if you get the chance. It speaks to all the challenges that we face.

Moriah continues to be stable and all her vitals are excellent. They are going to do a procedure on her on Saturday to get rid of some of the fluid on the brain. Doesn't sound like a big deal, but everything has a slight risk. Hopefully this is another step towards recovery.. Hopefully this will work because the other alternatives are much more dangerous. She continues to have the best tunes in SICU!!!!!!!! Actually I think she has the only tunes in SICU. We have also seen some movements that are somewhat new so please KEEP THE FAITH. Your prayers and words give us strength. I want her back so bad.

A lot of you are asking as to how can I do this or where does it come from. Frankly it's not me! It's the spirit of Mary, Moriah, and all my friends and family. In other words IT"S YOU!!!!! It just kind of flows and happens. I can't really explain it. But in a weird way I have some inner peace that I have never had before. God has blessed me again!!! I still continue to cry and laugh every day. I guess Valvano was right.

With life's little doubts, They keep coming round
Carry on Carry on
With darkness all around you want to scream and shout
Carry on Carry on
Don't cry baby look at where you've been
Everybody knows you just need a friend
Please, Please, Please, go down on your knees(and pray)
Carry on Carry on
When your head is full of doubts and you can't figure it out
Carry on Carry on
Between the time it takes to make all those mistakes
It don't matter what you say or do
It just seems to work out if you want it to
Let out all the slack, take it off your back
Carry on Carry on

The incomparable J.J. Cale

1-12-06

oops, you might see a blank one I think I hit the wrong button

Anyway, nothing reall new with Moriah. Her condition remains the same. She did flutter her eye at me a little bit so I am hoping and praying it's a sign of things to come. They still are waiting to put the stindt in her cartoid artery. Other than that nothing new. She still looks like she could wake up at anytime.

Kind of a tough day as it is all starting to set in. Its the little things. I think you all know what I mean. Keep praying and fighting for Moriah.

Don't forget the benefit at Hills Bank in Coralville on the 20th. It's Moriah's birthday also!!!

One little piece of advice. If you don't have a will, go get one tomorrow. As big of a mess as I have right now, if we wouldn't have had wills it would be much worse and take much longer to settle the estate. I know you don't want to think about such crap, but go get it done.

This is from J.J. Cale one of my favorite artists. He's not well know but has written many songs that other artists have made hits. He is a humble private man and never sought the limelight or fame. Another lesson for us.
This is called "You keep me hanging on" It's imposible for me to listen to this without crying.

Everytime I stop awhile
I think about your sweet smile
I can't think of nothin else all day

The way that you wink your eye
everytime you walk by
Baby what can I say
You keep me hanging on
I can't think of nothin else all day

When the evening rolls around
And their ain't nobody around
Baby I think of you

Of all the stars at night
None can match the brilliant light
That I see in your eyes

If I could hold you just one time
Stop that moment in my mind
Baby I still think of you
You keep me hangin on

Thank you Mary and Moriah for all the great memories

Dale

update 1-12-06

1-11-06

"Preach the Gospel and if necessary use words" St Francis (Gunner thanks again)
I think Mary was a good example of this. Her life was her example to others.

Moriah is still in SICU . They probably will not move her for a couple of more days which is ok by me. They did an angioplast on her today to check out an artery in her neck. There is some damage there and they will probably put in a stindt at a later date. They didn't want to do it today because they would have to thin her blood and they also were draining some fluid from her abdomen where the spleen was removed. So there was a danger of more bleeding so they decided to wait. She also had a vein that was expanding and contracting, so they gave her some juice to stablize it. After all of this it did appear that the flow of blood to her brain was a bit better, but she still has edema on the brain which is of a major concern. All of her other vitals including her breathing are in great shape. Please continue to pray as she continues her fight. We do not know what is going to happen or why, but for everything there is a reason, a time, and a season.

I'm losing track of some of the thank you's that I need to do, but I do really appreciate everything that everyone has done. Your prayers and your words are by far the most important.

I have been very impressed by all of the nurses at the U of I. Their thoughtfullness and caring attitudes are amazing. I wish I could remember all of their names but they know who they are. What an oustanding group of people.

I'm going to try and continue doing these everyday but I'm starting to get a little bogged down with some of the other stuff. I hope this site gives you some hope as it has been really good for me to put my thoughts into words. I hope it doesn't appear to be anything more than an update on Moriah, thank you's and an expression of my feelings for Mary and faith. Hang in there as I'm going to try like hell to do the same.

I believe in memories they look so pretty when I sleep
And when I wake up you look so pretty sleeping next to me
But there is not enough time
And there is no song I could sing
And there is no combination of words I could say
But I will stil tell you one thing
We're better together
Jack Johnson Better Together Album In Between Dreams

Goodnight and God Bless
Dale

update 1-10-06

So much things to say right now, Bob Marley

Not much new to report on Moriah. She has been off the ventilator since Saturday so that is good. If a room becomes available they will move her into the neuro wing tomorrow.This will hopefully set us on a course of recovery. They have her fever under control but believe there might be some infection in the space vacated by the spleen. They are going to drain this stuff. I keep hearing stories about people waking up and I sure hope this turns into one of those.

I have asked myself a lot of Why me?? Well as usual my Dad gave me some great advice. Why not me? Things like this happen all of the time. I hope that this will all make sense one day, that is the faith that I have.

Work for the second day, well I guess that's why they call it work!

A day at a time sometimes an hour at a time.

By the way, the benefit on January 20th is one Moriah's birthday!!!

I love the Blue's as some of you know, so let me share this with you.
Please keep the faith and continue to pray. What else do we really have besides our Faith, family, and friends.

CLOUDS,
ONE BY ONE.
FILL THE SKY JUST LIKE THESE TEARS THAT FILL MY EYES!
I KNOW BY NOW SHE AIN'T COMIN BACK.
I WATCH MY WORLDS SLOWLY FADE INTO BLACK,
LOOK OUT MY WINDOW IT'S STILL RAININ'
LOOK OUT MY WINDOW IT'S STILL RAININ'
THEY SAY THAT TIME HEALS EVERYTHING,
I'VE FELT THE PAIN THAT LOVE CAN BRING,
IT DON'T GET BETTER WITH EACH PASSING DAY,
ANY HOPE I HAD IS SLOWLY SLIPPING AWAY,
LOOK OUT MY WINDOW,
IT'S STILL RAININ.

Jonny Lang 'Still rainin" written by Bruce Mc Cabe

It's a blue song okay!! I know there is hope!!!!!!!!!!
All my love Dale

Mojo 1-09-06

Every morning and every evening
Everday I think of you
The way you love me through and through
When I'm with you
It feels like heaven
You're an angel holding me
You're sweet sweet lovin
It sets me free
And in my wildest imagination
I could never imagine you
Lovin me as much as I do you

Keb Mo "Every Morning"
Album Keb Mo
Buy it you won't be disappointed
Thanks to Matt Lawrence for exposing me to Keb many years ago.

Well not a lot new today. Moriah is still off of the ventilator so that is good. She has a new brace on to protect her neck fracture. It looks like now that they will not do surgery. But that could change. Most likely she will move rooms tomorrow or the following day and will receive more care towards recovery. She still looks great, so please keep praying.

I went to work today, kind of strange and good at the same time. What a great crew I have. I felt like I was in the way a little bit. Then off to the lawyers (joy) and then a bunch of other crap that I would rather not have to deal with but it's gotta be done.

I never thought I would have to change my w4 to single and change my insurance coverage, but what a curve ball that's been thrown. I only hope I can stand in the box and take one for the team. I can not tell all of you how much I miss Mary. I know the pain will lessen but the memories and my love for her will never subside.

For those of you who haven't looked up Websters first definition of fine, here it is,
of superior or best quality; of highest grade; excellent; fine wine. For those of you who heard the sermon now you know. Next time you have a glass of wine, raise your glass and toast Mary and Moriah

Thanks to Katie, Maureen, and Danny You know who you are thanks for being their for Moriah, It means a ton.

Moriah 1-08-06

Good friends we have found
And good friends we have lost
Along the way
In this great world you can't forget the past
So dry a tear I say
From "No Woman No Cry" Robert Nesta Marley

Looks like Moriah may be off the ventitlator for the most part. If she continues to breathe on her own for the next couple of days, she will probably be moved to a different wing. She still looks great and to me she looks a little different today. She looked ready to wake up! Might be me but I sensed something there that I had not seen before. Going to church has been extemely difficult for me. Not because it's church but because of all that I see there that Mary had her hand in. Tomorrow I head back to work, so wish me the best. I also have lots of things to do in regards to Mary's estate and all the legal stuff. The help that I have received from friends and family can not be described in words.

So some more thanks,
To Mary's sisters Jayne and Bette and to my sister Susanne, I know your are all strong and miss her dearly but continue to be the best mom's you can be.

To Christ the King Lutheran Church, The depth of your faith, conviction, and strength astounds me.

To Hills Bank, I hope you understand the depth of the quality and the talent of your employees. In my job I rely on others and understand that the boss is only as good as those that work for him/her. I would say that you are in excellent shape. My thanks to you for prayers and comments about Moriah and Mary.

To all of those of you that have crossed paths with me at Menards, your support is far beyond my expectations. What an unbelievable group of people.

Don Quixote
As the story moves into its central theme, Don Quixote invites the audience to "take a deep breath of life, and consider how it ought to be lived." Is it a good world, or is it a bad world? What is the duty of a man or woman in such a world?
Quixote's answer is simple. Whatever the world is, one must dream, love, stand for what is right, bear with sorrow, keep going no mattter how weary. And at the end of that road, one finds a calm and peaceful heart.
Thanks to Carolyn Otis one of Mary's PEO sister's for sharing this with me.

Dale

Mojo's condition 1-07-06

Well not a lot new but she is breathing much better on her own. Also the Doctor's removed the bolt in her head that measures brain pressure. At least they don't think this is an issue anymore. She got her hair washed today!!!!!! Maureen are you going to take care of those eyebrows???? Mo's temperature is down to normal so that is good. We just need her to wake up and pray that it happens soon. Many of you are wondering how I am doing. Well I have run the gamut of emotions and I don't know that it has all set in yet. I am going to try and go back to work on Monday, so we will see how it goes.. I feel sad, hollow, angry, empty, happy, overwhelmed, blessed, fortunate, and touched all at the same time. Please keep praying for us. we need it. I still can't believe this has happened. I guess we never know what the Lord has planned for us. I sure wish he would let me on it.

My brothers and I went and watched the Hawks kick the Illini's butt today!! Pretty good diversion. Thanks to Max for the seats. Then we went to Darlene and Brian's for an outstanding dinner. I feel honored to know you guys.

You might want to check out Lensingfuneral.com and look at all the postings in regards to Mary. It truly puts things into prospective.

Now for some more thanks,

To my family, what can I say you are the best. Claude and Verna I get strength from yours and your ability to handle all of this. Your help has been immesurable.

Mom and Dad I can not put into words the values that you have taught me and how that has helped me.

My brothers, same hair, same attitude. I wish you could stay here for a lot longer.

John Gunner Ewalt. My Elementary and High School friend. Your words and your courage inspires me. You give me strength. I know you haven't had the best of luck that past few years but hang in there. Everyone please say a prayer for Gunner.

There will be a fundraiser for Moriah on 1-20-06 at Hills Bank in Coralville. There will be a silent auction and raffle. If you would like to contribute or have any questions please call Annika @ 400-0469. What's this about your dancing Annika??????? Funds from this event will go to the Mary Reiman trust fund at Hills Bank.

John Hiatt
My Baby Blue
"almost hurts too much to remember/As if the weight of your head on my shoulder/By itself would make us older-if I could time it right/ I would be with you tonight/ Out among the stars/ Is that where you are?"

repost of email from 1-6-06

A fairly uneventful day again which is good. The best news is that she is breathing just about on her own. She had a fever which they seem to have under control. Your emails and phone calls have really helped me. I hope you understand that some of this is also very therapeutic for Danielle and myself. This is going to be a long haul and any baby steps that we take are significant. We continue to pray for a miracle.

After watching the Hawkeyes last night on the cour, Gunner and I should be on that team to can some 24 footers for them.

My thought for the day is, SLOW DOWN AND TAKE YOUR TIME!!!! A few years ago Alabama had a hit with a song "I'm in a hurry and don't know why" Take the time and listen to if if you can. As many of you know music has been a huge part of my life, and now many lines have come back to teach us something.
Dale

Mojo repost email from 1-5-06

Thanks to everyone for helping, prayers and thoughts.

Moriah had a fairly uneventful day yesterday. She looks very good after having the respirator and all the stuff taken out of her mouth and off of her face. Her breathing is a bit better so we'll take that. She looks like she could wake up and get out of bed. For now all her vitals and numbers are very good but doctor's do not have an explanation as to why she is unconscious. Her fever seems to be under control. We will have some very difficult decisions in the next few weeks. So keep that in your prayers.

As far as the accident, I saw the car and Mary didn't have a chance. Looks like very high speed involved. I can't tell you a lot but when you find out how this happend and how easily it could have been avoided you will be deeply saddened. But bitterness and anger will not bring them back to us. Remember the grace that God has shown all of you. We will let the lawyers, highway patrol and the insurance companies do their jobs, I guess.

My message to all of you is this, do not take anything for granted, look into the eyes of your loved ones and tell them how important they are to you. Mary and I did this often and what comfort I have that we really knew how much we loved each other. As you know She was the best wife, mother and lover anyone could expect.. Take comfort that she is in heaven hanging curtains, working in the garden, and nurturing the babies. Enough pontification for now!!! Keep us in your prayers and I will keep you updated. It could be a long fight.
Dale

"There's a brighter day around the corner"
From Beauty in the River by the Ozark Mtn Daredevils

Mojo update 1-06-06

Hello everyone,
Not a bunch new but Mojo breathed on her own for 2 hours this a.m. So that's a baby step and we will take it. Her vitals and other numbers are all real good. The sun hasn't shined in Iowa since the accident, so maybe when it does Mojo will wake up!!!!!! She looks real good, as pretty as ever and we need all your prayers to keep us going. Again I cannot thank everyone enough for their help, interest and prayers. I wish I could thank you all in person!! I would like to especially thank at this time
Brent Nichols he works for me and helped me out the night of the accident.

Laird and Sandy Pogones what can I say, the best friends anyone could ask for. They cried with me and prayed for me and I'm sure will miss Mary almost as much as me.

Mark Kamps former neighbor, Mark let us use his house as a meeting point near the hospital . Angela his wife allowed this to happen. You two have been outstanding.

Ron Reed former neighbor Ron helped organize the "war room" and borrowed me a suit to wear that shrunk because it hung in the closet too long.

Rob Hagen it sure was good to talk to you and reaquaint.

My pastor Dave You are the best!! God Bless YOU!!!

That's enough for now I will keep thanking all of you and I hope I can somehow return all the love and favors someday.

Bob Marley "Waiting in Vain" the song says
From the very first time I set my eyes on you girl, my heart said follow through.
check it out
Irie!!!!!
Dale

Today 1-6-06

This is where you will find updates on Moriah and Dale's words of wisdom. This will be easier for me, I think. I already sent out today's email so check here in the future for updates.

John Prine once said in a song

You can gaze out the window , get mad and get madder
throw your hands in the air and cry what does it matter
but it don't do no good to get angry so help me I know
For a heart stained in Anger gets grows weak and and grows bitter
you become your prisoner as you watch your self sit there
wrapped up in your own chair of sorrow.

Peace and Love
Dale