Things Will Be OK
My appearance yesterday on “Good Things Utah” went well. Television appearances are always a little stressful (although I’m much more comfortable with them now than I was years ago!), but I enjoy them and I love talking about Stampin’ Up! and sharing creative ideas with people.
Everyone loved the Spooky Spider jar, and they made me promise to come back and show how to do the adorable advent calendar that Jill demonstrated at convention.
After the appearance I grabbed a quick lunch with Sage and Shalae; we met at Gardner Village, one of our favorite places to shop. It’s an historic old flour mill that’s been remade into a wonderful restaurant surrounded by restored cabins and buildings that house boutique stores. Love it! We could spend hours there strolling though all the shops. Unfortunately we didn’t have that kind of time yesterday, because I had meetings back at Stampin’ Up!, but lunch with the girls (and Jason and Kona, who had invited themselves at the last minute) was great.
On my way back to work, I got a call from my brother, who had spent the last nine days on the Bonneville Salt Flats here in Utah helping my crazy father try to break a speed record. Well, he broke the record—but in the process, his car caught fire and Kurtis called to tell me they were flying my dad by helicopter to the local burn unit at the University of Utah Hospital.
Needless to say, my plans changed abruptly; I headed for the hospital, where I spent the rest of the day and much of the night with my dad. As I drove to the hospital I knew in my heart Dad would be ok—and if he wasn’t, well, I still knew things would be ok.
Thankfully, I’m happy to report Dad will be fine. He has 2nd and 3rd degree burns on his hands and face, but it appears he’ll be able to recover quickly and completely. The hours I spent with him in the hospital, rubbing his feet, whispering quietly that I loved him, and gently placing a cool, damp cloth on his forehead reminded me that we are all here for one reason, and one reason only—to love and care for others.
I left the hospital this morning to head to our first regional of the year—Kansas City—and I would never have left if I was worried at all. I wish I could be there with him, but he’s surrounded by other loved ones, and that’s the first place I’ll head when my plane lands in Utah on Sunday morning. And in the meantime, I'm going to enjoy every moment with my friends in Kansas!
Reader Comments (59)
"Look with favor on a bold beginning" a wise man once said. Sounds like your dad fits that bill.
He is in my prayers.
My father was burned on his head, face and arm about 15 years ago. I was very scared to see my big strong dad, hurt so bad. We talked about it just a few months ago when I turned 40. My dad said he only remember 2 things about that time - it hurt ALOT and how everyone was there telling him how much we loved him. So don't forget how important it is to tell him that! You might feel helpless to make him feel better but words can help more than we know!!
Much love and prayers,
Debbie
You are a real professional, making a presentation at Regionals while your father is in the hospital. I applaud you for that.
(On a side note, your blog looks fabulous with the new papers design! Love it!)
Best wishes,
Cindy
So saddened to hear of this news of your father. I actually totally understand how scary your story is! My brother was in an fire in 1984 and took a simalar ride to the hospital. Everything turned out ok for him and I am so happy to hear that your dad is going to be ok. I hope that he is recovering nicely.
big hugs,
Amy
Your Dad and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. May he have a speedy recovery. (I think it is awesome that he doesn't let anything slow him down) :-D What a blessing.
I will keep your dad and your family in my prayers. I am so glad that he will be okay.
I will pray for a speedy recovery for your dad.
Karen