Honey Almond Pie
There are times when we think that we are in control of our lives (for the most part anyway) and then something comes to remind us what an illusion that is. I was reminded of the truth last Saturday. My cell phone rang with a number that I didn’t recognize though I did determine it was from a Florida area code. The call was from my Dad’s girlfriend, Eileen. She called to say that my Dad had had a stroke and that he was in the hospital. Eileen did her best to paint a positive scenario, but I knew that I would be heading to Florida very soon.
There was one issue that I had and that was how to get back in time for an event that I was to cater for my dear friend Ken in two weeks. At first I thought, “I can still handle this” because I didn’t want to create any problems for Ken (clearly I have not dealt with anyone having a stroke before). Just as I was considering what to do, Ken called me and asked casually, “How are you doing?” When I told him what was going on, without hesitating a moment he said, “Go and take care of your Dad… we will figure this out.” The permission Ken gave me to let go and focus was tremendous and greatly appreciated. (I told you he was a dear friend).
Before I took a red-eye flight out of town, I had a few hours and “needed” to feel in control of something and so I baked a pie for Ken to thank him for his compassion and understanding. Now if I may, I’d like to ask for healing prayers for my Dad. And if you have any experience with strokes… please share that if you can.
Thanks from the bottom of my heart.
Pie a Day Give Away 
Karen…I am very sorry to hear this..the last I heard from him he had gotten engaged…Is he ok??
Karen ~ although we don’t see each other much~ please know you and your dad are in our prayers~ may he have a speedy recovery. My dad also had a stroke when he was in his 80’s and all’s I really know is his was a “mild” stroke. And he did get better : ) some hope for you my friend. Lovingly ~Rachel Whitley & Family
Thank you. He seems stable at this point… but a long road ahead.
Prayers and blessings to you. I hope that he has a speedy recovery. I do know that the sooner a stroke is responded to the greater the chance for a positive outcome. Take care of yourself as well as
you take care of others.
My thhoughts and prayers are with you and your Dad.
Your being in Florida will also be a blessing for Eileen. Take deep breaths, girl.
My prayers are with you and your Dad! I hope things are improving. Xoxoxo
Karen, with children and grandchildren visiting I’ve been distracted from looking at the computer and just read your entry. Of course, my prayers and healing wishes are with your dear Dad, Eileen, and you. Bill had a stroke from which he made a good recovery. The rehab process requires dedication and we were greatly helped by a wonderful support team–speech, physical, and occupational therapists–whose positive personalities made the “work” as much fun as possible. Emotions are very near the surface and I think it helps if the person who’s had the stroke is reassured that it’s all right to experience those emotions freely. Love you! My best to you all.