Where Have I Been?

If you're one of my regular blog readers or a Pals Paper Arts follower, you've probably noticed my absence lately.  I wanted to let you know where I've been and why.

My older and only sister has been in ICU since September 24th with a pulmonary embolism and pneumonia. She also developed Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) as a result of the trauma to her lungs. Needless to say, these are complex medical issues on their own, and even more so when grouped together, so her condition is critical. She is on a ventilator and her progress has been up and down the past few weeks.  When not at my teaching job at school, I spend most of my time at the hospital, which is 40 miles away from where I live.  

She is very special to me and more like a mother to me than a sister.  I was born when she was 10 years old and we've always had a close relationship.  Our mother died when I was 18 and she's been by my side through many trials in my life.  She's my best friend and she needs lots of prayers right now.  I'm sure you can understand why card making and blogging have taken a back seat right now.  

I'm not sure when I'll have something new to post on my blog again, but please hang in there with me. Thanks to all my fellow Stampin' Pretty Pals and Mary Fish for the unwavering support and the beautiful handmade cards I've received during this difficult time.  Please keep Donna and her recovery in your thoughts and prayers.

Thanks so much,

~ Margaret

Comments

[Jen Timko]

You have been missed! You and your sister are in my thoughts and prayers.

[kim H]

We will all be thinking of you and praying for your family. It is a full time job visiting someone at the hospital. I spent part of the sumer doing the same thing, it is very difficult. Make sure you take care of yourself as well. You can not take care of loved ones if you let yourself get ill.

[Julie Gearinger]

I am so sorry to hear about your sister and will be praying for her complete recovery! May the Lord sustain you and give you strength in the days ahead- God Bless!

[Linda Callahan]

Oh Margaret we continue to keep you and your sister in our thoughts and prayers xoxoxo

[Jilleen]

I am so sorry for what you and your sister are going through. I will keep you both in my prayers and I have missed your posts! Please take care of yourself, we will still be here when your life returns to normal (and it will).

[Denise Willerton]

I will be praying as well Margaret

[diane oliver]

So sorry to hear about your sister, but I'm sure she loves having you by her side at this time and she will be in our prayers for a speedy recovery.

[Patti MacLeith]

You are missed, Margaret and I will continue to pray for you, Donna and the doctors treating her.

[Michele]

You and Donna are in my thoughts and prayers. I wish her a speedy recovery. Please take care of yourself.

[Traci Davis]

Margaret,
I am sorry for all you are dealing with right now. You and your sister are in my thoughts and prayers.
Traci

[Mike Funke]

Thoughts and prayers are with you Margaret, but you probably already knew that! Take care of yourself during the process.
Mike

[KreatesKards]

Many positive thoughts and prayers coming your way. I hope your sister will be home and feeling so much better soon.

[shannon]

Good wishes going out to you. I'm sure she appreciates your support. The ink will be there later. I know when I'm stressed or worried, I look at all of the crafty goodies and can't think "creatively" anyway. This is more important - the rest can wait.

[Barbra]

Margaret,

I will be thinking and praying for you and your sister! I'm very close with my sister too so I know what you are going through. Hope that she is feeling better real soon!

[mary fish]

We love your art but understand where your priorities are. You and your family are in my thoughts! hugs, m

[Marietta]

My younger sister was in the hospital for a very infectious disease and know how you feel when a member of your family, especially your sister is sick. My prayers and thoughts go out to you and your sister. She's in God's hands right now and he'll watch over her as well. The very best to you and your family!!

[Annie]

Thinking of you and your family. Having had multiple complications and hospitalized myself, I feel for your sister. Hoping for the best for your family.

[Patrice Herrera]

My thoughts and Prayers are with you and your family Margaret! I will add both your names to our Prayer list at church. Fondly Patrice

[Karin]

Margaret;
Please know my thoughts and prayers and with you, your sister and family. Take Care. Karin Menghini

[Lori A.]

My prayers are with your sister and your family!

[Mary Cardini- Anderson]

My prayers are going out to you and your sister Margaret. You have been greatly missed. Please know that your being thought of.

Mary

[Jennie Maier]

I just wanted to send a note saying I'll say a prayer for you and your sister! Your creations are always so lovely. Please know you're in my thoughts.

[connie smith]

Take care of your sis...good sisters are wonderful, and nice to have good memories from. I'm sure she really appreciates your caring attentiveness. Take care of yourself too.. hugs and prayers.

[Nancy E]

Margaret, I've missed you and wondered about you. Please know that I will pray for your sister, and for you and all your family. Take as much time as you need. We'll be here whenever you can return.

[mary marsh]

I prayed immediately for Donna & you when I read your blog post-