Dear Chordie Family

First of all, I know I need to write some e-mails and some comments (Pete, I have not forgotten you), but this is really the first opportunity I have had to sit down and write something at length, so please excuse my not writing sooner.

Roger,  "She Who Must Be Obeyed" wants me to thank you for the song and video featuring your Bella. We were both very moved while watching and listening to you sing. It was especially appropriate because about a week ago we lost our Bert (our 7 year old cat) due to feline diabetes. The disease "snuck up" on us and we believe we missed it because Dondra and I were so busy with trips back and forth to the doctor and the hospitals. Also, the animals feel stress the same way we do and all that pressure we were under couldn't have done Bert any good.

Anyway, we loved seeing your Bella frolicking in the fields and playing with her buddies. We know she's sick, so we wish the best for the both of you, my friend.

Dondra also wants to thank you for the phone call of a couple of days ago. Unfortunately it came at a time when she couldn't answer and she wants you to know to please call back anytime. (Check e-mail for the best time)

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Jim, I got your e-mail and we both thank you for thinking of us, Buddy. I can always count on you and the others in the family to check on us if it happens to be a while between posts. I love that you all do this, and if you'll continue reading below, those good thoughts and prayers are working for us, my friend!

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Finally some great news to share with all of you: Dondra is feeling much, much better after the pacemaker was reset (80 beats per minute at this time) and some of her meds have either been titrated down or eliminated altogether.

"How much better, Bill?!!", I can hear you asking. Well here we go:

1. She can get to her restroom by herself, so I don't have to worry about her falling

2. She is up doing a little housework (laundry, sweeping to name just 2)

3. She's cooking small meals for the both of us and here comes the best one of all:

4. She's driving short distances with me as the navigator and watching for other cars.

Not to worry, boys and girls: I'm always very close by and watching her intently just in case. Even though she says I don't have to, I still only sleep lightly at night and get up with her, but she does fine going to the restroom without her cane or walker and I am so proud of her.

Also, I know enough to not be lulled into a false sense of security and I am always mindful that she's had a stoke which is known as "evolving", so I make doubly sure she doesn't overdo.

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Isn't that great news, Chordians? And I credit all of you for taking us "under your wings" and showing us how much you care with your songs, your constant verbal support, your telephone calls, your thoughts and prayers and just your overall love and kindness. Neither of us has ever experienced such a wonderful thing from people whom we have never met and we know to always treasure what you have done and are doing for us.

We love all of you very much!

Bill and Dondra Craig