Parkinson's

COVER SNEAK PEEK: Michael J. Fox Never Giving Up Hope
Originally posted Friday November 28, 2008 10:45 PM EST


Ten years after shocking the world with the announcement that he has Parkinson's, Michael J. Fox is aggressively fighting the disease – and says he still sees a bright future ahead. "Based on how I feel now," the star tells PEOPLE in its new issue, "I'll be okay for at least 10 more years."

Since leaving Spin City in 2000 – two years after revealing his Parkinson's diagnosis on the cover of PEOPLE magazine – Fox, 47, has been focused on raising his four kids with wife Tracy Pollan, 48, and helping The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research pour $140 million into fighting the disease.

Fox has found a successful combination of medications to keep his symptoms under control. But, he says, the progression of the disease is unavoidable, and "at some point every day" he enters a state of what doctors call "bradykinesia" – in which his arms hang heavy at his side. But the actor tells PEOPLE he doesn't want anyone feeling sorry for him. In fact, Fox says, having Parkinson's "is part of an amazing life." And it's not "an otherwise amazing life," he clarifies. "It's part of what makes my life amazing."

For more on Fox and his brave battle, pick up PEOPLE, on newsstands Wednesday.

See also Ted's Blog on Parkinson's http://parkinsonssupportgroup.blogspot.com/

Some more pictures

Here we are out for dinner the evening before I left. We realized the flash was not set on the camera, duh! Nevertheless, they are still nice, (Click on them to enlarge).

Aila took this picture of me just before I left to the Airport.

I have been thinking

Remember when your child started school? Was that not a wake-up call? Your child becoming a bit independent? Why did you ever wanted to rush through the “terrible two” stage.

Then comes the first Bible camp away from home. The first date with a person you might or might not agree with, all the while trying to keep your mouth shut, but your looks said it all?

Then you have to accept the fact that they have now different plans instead of the weekly family sit-around the coffee table.

Or what about the first driving lessons followed by their very own license and soon after their very own car? What time should they be home, are you going to trust their good judgment?

Family holidays "get-to-gether's" are being disturbed because boyfriends or girlfriends have plans with his/hers family.

Finally the day arrives when they leave the nest either to go to college, travel or getting married, that can be a real shock to a parents system and takes getting used to. Now you are NOT the only family they have. I have seen couples having to give a holiday plan (to be rotated every year) to both sets of parents, because there is a lack of sharing.

When the grandchildren come around this problem might get worse unless both parents accept the fact that the little ones have two sets of grandparents to love.

Now where am I coming from? 16 years ago I had to deal with Paul moving away to follow Jennifer 3000km away from us. We were not at the wedding and not with the birth of the girls. I'd be there as soon as I could though. For them it became too expensive to travel home for the Christmas celebrations. Eventually you get used to that. I have always felt in my heart that they are exactly where God wants them to be, which helped me a great deal to accept the distance. Ted somehow found it a lot easier to accept.

My training was not yet completed because 16 months ago Yvonne and Jason took the girls and all their belongings and moved to Ottawa. Hmm, not so easy, (to be honest, it was terrible!) even though again in my heart I felt it was a good move on their part and not done without a lot of prayer.
Nevertheless, it was a difficult year and you all know I needed to see them quite a few times to get my “fix”.

My last visit to Ottawa taught me something. I could see the maturity in Yvonne and their relationship. I could see the independence in both of them. Also their commitment to serve the Lord and honestly seeking to do His will.
You know what I saw? A family unit working very well ''on their own". It made me very proud and what is more, I was able to leave them without feeling sad and... happy and content to be back home in my own house with my husband.

We as parents HAVE to accept that we become "an extended family" to our children's lives.
When I came to Canada in 1960, yes I missed my family and the traditions for the important days during the year. Until I decided that we had to make our own traditions simply because we had to rely on each other to make it pleasant. So.. for the same token we have to allow our children to do the same. Only God knows how much I love my children, my whole life was wrapped around them even forsaking friends.

As for now, I feel very content being at home with my dear husband. After all, he is the one who needs me. Next week we will be seeing the Parkinson's specialist and he will be having his tests in preparation to see the Oncologist. We are going through this together. As I mentioned before, Parkinson's makes a person feel very "lonely" and it is difficult to explain to others. It means a great deal to Ted that I am just there for him.

In the meantime we are thankful having Ron and Lynne and the kids living close by. We had them over for Dutch pancakes yesterday. I asked him if he could attach the dryer exhaust hose because it kept on falling of. Instead of just doing that he went to the store and bought a galvanized one. The way he put that together is absolutely professional. The old hose, he said, was full of lint, (no wonder it took so long to dry clothes!) What a great son to have around, hahaha!

Lynne is also a sweetheart, we get along so well. So I thank the Lord for them.

Thank you Ron for doing that for us!

Our visit to Aila's school

Aila during craft time

Below her handywork!

Both girls attend a RC/Christian French immersion private school. On Tuesday is was Yvonne and Jason's turn to come to observe Aila. Since Jason was out of town I went along. Of course I loved it and I took lots of pictures and short video clips. She introduced me as "Oma" to her friends, who probably were thinking, "what the heck is an Oma! (We explained!)

This teacher was so in control of these 20 something little ones. She never raised her voice and not one of the kids were misbehaved. There was total obedience. The first 45 min of class were spent learning French. I am showing a clip here about fruits. Aila was very proud because she did not loose her balance, (even if they did an applause was in order).

More of my trip

Sunday Lunch!

I had brought two pans of Cinnamon buns along.

Sunday lunch is not complete without Pillsbury Crescent rolls!

Yvonne and Aila in Yvonne's office for a short break.

Yvonne is always very busy has lots of work coming in regularly!

Aila, about Cole!

Aila was doing her homework. Working on her "C's". Cole starts with C and he is her little friend in her class. She loves him and wanted to marry him until she realized that his parents would be very sad if Cole would move out and live at her house. (It did not occur to her that she would not be living at home either.) But she thinks he is very, very special! So.... for the time being she will NOT marry to avoid any unhappy parents.

Back home 2

Aila keeping herself busy in church.
Yes that is allowed! She carries that black case all over the place. That is her small world.

Whatever Anneka was doing, well she had fun doing it, hahaha!

Aila wanted to take a picture while driving in the car and actually I think it turned out really good, don't you think so?

Very good shot by Anneka!

She is so sweet but was not really in the mood for pictures. But Oma did it anyways!

Back home again

I had a wonderful time and also made lots of pictures and video's.

Here I just arrived and the girls could not wait until I had opened my small carry-on to show them what I had brought. We are in the room where I slept. Click on the pictures if you wish to see them larger!

I had a wonderful time with lots of memories.

Oprah Goes Retail with an Online Store

Nora Ashkar, Nov 17, 2008

With the opening of Oprah's online shop and a physical store in Chicago, everyone will now be able to bear the mark of the "O" and be spared the trials and tribulations that await us in the end times -- wait, scratch that, wrong story.

When news first reached me about the opening of The Oprah Store, my first thought was, "You mean there wasn't one already?" That's right -- somehow in all her years of media saturation, Oprah forgot to open a store. But we finally have what we've been waiting for, and just in time for the holidays. Even though Oprah could be raking in money that she doesn't really need by selling all of her Favorite Things and Book Club picks, the queen of all media does not sell any of her endorsements, I assume for the obvious middleman reasons. Instead, Oprah focuses on clothing, African crafts, items stamped with motivational messages and products emblazoned with the sacred letter "O."

After browsing every corner of the site, I must sadly report that I found nothing I'm dying to own. Most of the items are basic pieces you would find in any airport gift shop. A few feature some of Oprah's favorite sayings by which she lives -- all of course are coined by Oprah herself. But however inspiring these phrases, nothing can liven up the drab colored bags and shirts on which they are printed. I would have to say that the Oprah Store is a pass until they create more distinct and interesting products. However, I do have good news for all the Olivias, Odiles and Ophelias of the world: This is your holy grail. Because when Oprah sets out to make herself an idol, you win! Cashmere cardigans, luggage, make-up bags and teapots all bear your letter in The Oprah Store. So enjoy it for the rest of us; you deserve this. And if anyone can explain the meaning of "What you do today, creates every tomorrow," please let me know.

Yes people, the news is out, this is Oprah's world and the rest of us are paying rent!

This song has helped me a lot

http://

My next trip

Next Saturday I will be going to Ottawa and am very exited of course.
Since I am not working traveling has NOT been our priority. Some good airline fares have been showing up though and Ted thought I should take advantage of it. I am NOT going to tell you how I got my fare, hahaha! Nevertheless, by letting me go he is making a big sacrifice because he does not like to be alone. Parkinson's medication is very unpredictable. He never knows how he is going to feel when he gets up in the morning. It is a sickness like no other. So of course I am also very hesitant to leave him behind. I am thankful for my cellphone to stay in contact with him,even if it is a small consulation.

I am leaving on Saturday as I mentioned and will come back on Wednesday. They will not be coming for Christmas, I guess there is always "a first" in everything. We have had to celebrate Christmas without Paul and Jennifer and the girls Sammie and Eliana for many a time. No matter how I rationalize it I feel very sad about it. There is one thing about love, can't turn it off!

Sammie (3000km away) just told me on MSN, "Oma I love you and I miss you so much!" Since she has a her own computer and web cam, we see her everyday. Little Eliana just past two, will say out of the blue: "I love Oma and Opa!" Then they dial our number and let her talk to us, what a sweetie. Such wonderful inventions we have to stay in touch.

Yes being a grandparent is the most wonderful time in your life, but very hard NOT to have them around, at least for me it is.

I know that my Redeemer lives!

http://

Today's Birthdays

Today is Evan's Birthday, he turns six. I understand his wish is to have a bowling party with his friends and brother Hudson.

Happy Birthday Evan!

Have a great day!

We love you!








Today is also Joann's Birthday, I won't tell you her age, hahaha!
She is my niece, the daughter of my eldest sister Coby. They live in Holland. This picture was taken during Joann's visit to Canada. What a wonderful time we had!

Happy Birthday Joann

We Love you

Incredible and so sweet

http://

My Remembrance Day!

This morning as I was on the treadmill with my MP3 player, I was also watching TV. I could not hear it of course. A veteran was being interviewed about WW1, they showed pictures and video clips as well. The sub titles were in French. With my very limited knowledge of French, I still was able to follow bits and pieces of the interview. The veteran must have been very, very old. Such a sweet man and he reminded me of my Dad actually.

I was waiting for 11:11 for them to pause, well they didn't. Since by then I was thinking about WW2 and being thankful to Canadian soldiers who set us free, I paused my running for a minute.

My mind went back to 1944 when the war was raging on in Holland, they called it the "hunger winter". I was only four and my older brothers and sister were all sent op North to farmers in that region. There was simply no food in our house. The German soldiers came and took everything from us , furniture, drapes, bikes etc and what little we had left was used to burn to keep the house warm. The soldiers also came regularly to gather abled men to work for them in their ammunition factories. My Dad up to that point was still at large.

I remember me having no toys, except for a swing attached to the door frame of our very bare living room. But I was walking around with a zipper. (I guess my mother must have been sewing) and being so happy with it, I went outside to show it to friends. Lo and behold I saw the "bad soldiers" going from door to door to search houses. Being probably instructed, I ran inside to warn my Daddy. I knew he would go into hiding and where you might ask? In the, by now just about empty linen closet, he had made a hole with a lid. There was no basement just a small crawl space he had dug underneath the floor. (I vaguely remember him talking about mice!) As soon as he went down my Mom placed all sorts of junk on top of the lid. He was never caught!

Up to this day the sound of heavy military boots give me the creeps and the sound of the German language, (not the people) and those terrible war movies bring back bad memories.

When it comes to saving left over food, our kids tell me, Mom don't be so Dutch!" That is not being Dutch it is knowing what it is like to go hungry. If my parents could only see how we are living. In freedom and such luxury.

Thank you Canada for setting us free in 1945!

Alyssa turns two!

A moment with OMA! Alyssa needs a hand, and Evan is prepared!

A little pose for the camera!

This taste better than bread!

Hudson is probably thinking, "what the heck, it IS ice cream!"

Every little prinsess needs a Castle!

Evan is not only good in blowing out candles, but showing his sister how to play this toy!

Except....she thinks she knows it better! Hahaha!

I actually bought her that top, but will have to return it for a larger size and the other top as well. It is very hard to visualize her size when I am in the store.

Welcome to Winterpeg!

Yep, this is what we woke up to this morning! Guess what I thought?

"Am I glad I don't have to go out to day!"

So I did my one hour walk/run on the treadmill, took a shower

made some muffins and when they were ready Ted and I had one with our coffee.

Then I did something I have not done during the day time that is,

I WATCHED A MOVIE ON THE COMPUTER !!!!!

called "The Martian Child". I recommend it to everybody, this is a real family movie and a beautiful story with great acting.

You see those colourful thingies hanging on the window? Anneka and Aila made those during the last visit when they were having a sleep-over at Rene's. I was so fortunate to be able to keep them.

I thought they added a nice touch to all the white outside.

Actually a very beautiful sight it is!

There you have it folks!

A fools day?

I just read Ted's blog and I invite you to read it. Funny!!!

My day so far!

I just came back from my one hour walk and what a beautiful day it is.

Yesterday Ted and I drove the route that I walk to find out how far it actually is. So we started out kept on going until back into our street, when I said: "Okay to the left." We were almost home again when again I told him to turn left, then he answered: "You are kidding right/" "Mmmm, nope I am NOT kidding, okay turn left again at the end of this street turn right, (by now he was really muttering about me being crazy etc) right again and one more detour and that's the end! We found out I walk 5.4 k. Actually I thought it would be more but what the heck I will work on it! Hahaha!

I like walking the same route but add an other block to it every week.

Today is garbage day and discovered somebody threw away two leather chairs and a foot stool. No I am not interested!
What I also noticed how most people need to be educated about recycling. Like flatten things out and covering the box with a heavier item so that the stuff does not fly all over the place and left there for days.

So... if you are one of those to be educated, get with it, have a "flatten-things-out" party with your kids!

YouTube - nicole c. mullen-my redeemer lives

YouTube - nicole c. mullen-my redeemer lives

Fall

Yes I raked again, some three to four bags. First I went for an hour walk and then I raked for an hour and a half. Ted commented, where do you get the energy, hmmmm! Nothing wrong in that department.

I saw Aila on the webcam yesterday and she asked me to come over to her house. This time she asked me not to come in a red plane (AC) because that is not her favourite colour anymore . I better remember that, hahaha.

I also talked to Sammie on the webcam. I asked her: "Where is your Daddie?" It was still rather early. She said: "He is still sleeping and if you are very quiet you can hear him snore!"

"Kids say the darnest things!"