Saturday, 12:05 AM

Jessica and I left just a little bit ago to bring the kids home to get some sleep. Mottling has moved up to her knees and they were treating her with wet towels when we left. She continues to be medicated as needed. It was a hard good-bye tonight. Dennis, Tim, & Mark remained. Tim called shortly after we got here and said he was going to retire for a few hours and they would rotate getting some sleep. I think I may do the same. Jessica and I have talked of going back up there in a few hours to be support to our husbands. Jerri is very peaceful. Several hospice nurses have said that they see two ways that people leave this earth. One group is peaceful like Jerri is, the other is very restless, or even grab for bed coverings and such. They say that those who are peaceful are Christians or are sure of their salvation, the other group is not. I am convinced that beyond a shadow of a doubt that Jerri has her name written in the book of life and she will very soon get to meet her Lord and Savior. The kids are getting irritable. I believe that some of this in part is their grief. They're not ignorant and are very aware of what is happening. Of course Haley is very clued in, whereas Madison has a slight idea of the whole situation. Then there's everything in between. Thanks for your prayers.

Friday, 7:42 PM

Jerri is declining. All immediate family are here and probably won't leave at this point. The kids are being exceptional. Thanks for your prayers.

Friday, 4 PM

Still no change except the weather. It's rainy and cool here as I'm sure it is in your neck of the woods also. I've spent the day in the car. Jessica and I went to get Papa and bring him out. What an honor to serve our elder generation as they have so generously served us. I then went back to pick the kids up and bring them out. It looks now like it's about time to take him home and go get Abbi. All the men were able to shower and freshen up. Dennis left for a while to go get a haircut. Jerri looks peaceful and comfortable. April is our nurse today. She inspires us with 7 children! Thanks for your prayers.

Dick & Carol

Dick & Carol have been Dennis & Jerri's neighbors in Beavercreek for a very long time. They have been known for sharing food, tools, you name it. More than just neighbors, they're good friends. Jerri and Carol would walk together. In the early stages of Alzheimers, Carol would take Jerri to Fairfield Mall and they would walk together. This picture was taken sometime in 2007 as well.

George & Connie

George & Connie are life long friends of Dennis & Jerri. They were in each others' weddings, Jerri went to nursing school with Connie, and they've spent many summers together on vacation in Panama City Beach. I would say they're more in the "family" category than "friends." They have always been the first responders if Dennis or Jerri need anything, and they're always willing to put in long hours if needed. Our kids have called them "Uncle George" and "Aunt Connie" for a long while. They are very special to us all. This picture was taken in the summer of 07.

Eroy & Jerri

Here is a picture of Jerri and her dad, Eroy. Whenever we come to Ohio, we try to go out to get Papa and bring him to see Jerri. Sometimes the visits were emotional, but I think they were a good thing. Papa is one strong man! A WWII vet, he has survived his wife and two sons. Jerri is his remaining child, the only daughter. She did so much for him, caring for him after Ma's passing. They have a special relationship. Papa and his wife Maggie have been able to be out at the nursing home recently thanks to Deanna bringing them out there. This picture was taken in May 2007.

Friday, 7:30 AM

Jessica and I were just awaken by the phone. My first thought was, "why didn't he call my cell phone which was right by the bed!" I now know why, it was Beavercreek Schools' substitute teacher line! The kids are resting peacefully. We only had to tell them one time to go to bed and they were fast asleep. I did call Tim. There is not much change. Her respirations are increasing, blood pressure is the same. They did give her more medicine overnight. Mark is in the room, Tim was on a couch outside the room, and Dennis is in the family bedroom down the hall, so they are all close by. Since I am good and awake at this point, I will look for some pictures to post and share.