The Glory of the Polloks

A Pollok Christmas

2008-12-16T23:16:00.006-06:00

Every year, Liza asks for new family photos. Here's a sampling of this years lot.

It's beginning to look a lot like...

2008-12-10T21:28:00.007-06:00

Thought we'd make you guys jealous with a little Texas snow. The kids didn't really get into it as much as their parents did (okay, their dad did), but they thought it was interesting. Here are some pics.

Izzy's Third Birthday

2008-11-07T09:17:00.004-06:00

Yes, our little babies are growing up. Don't even talk about the fact that Andrew is about to be five...it makes Liza teary. Anyway, we wanted to share some photos of our beautiful little girl and her "princess party at the park." We rented a jumping "princess" castle (that happened to have a creepy clown head on the top) and a local enclosed park. It actually proved to be a great idea. A princess castle cake and Liza's homemade cupcakes topped off the event. Kids were running around, sliding, screaming, bouncing, and laughing. It was a blast. Best part: no clean up. Little Izzy still hasn't stopped talking about it. And according to her, now that she's three, she's "a big girl now

A Brand New Pollok

2008-10-28T01:45:00.004-05:00

We added a fifth Pollok to the family today. Let me introduce you to Eve Pollok, by far the most popular of the Pollok's the last 24 hours or so. So popular in fact, that her four legs have rarely touched the ground. She is a nine-week old miniature dachshund, and an early Christmas present for the two best little kids on the planet (sometimes). They have been going absolutely crazy over her today. Needless to say, at 1:47 am as I write this, all three of them are sound asleep, completely worn out from chasing and playing and...you know, kid stuff.

They meet at last...

2008-10-28T01:28:00.010-05:00

Yes, our little man got to meet his favorite toy...buddy...friend, thing. Last weekend all four of us traveled too far (and with way too much drama) to see Thomas the Tank Engine on "A Day Out with Thomas." The pictures should tell you all you need to know. Hundreds of kids (many with frustratingly oblivious parents), carnival food, games, jumping castles (complete with real vomit), four - Yes, FOUR - train tables of various kids for four hundred Thomas fans. Can you spell CONCENTRATED CHAOS. But, all in all, we managed to have a really good time. Izzy took her picture with Sir Toppam Hat while Andrew vied for a spot at a train table, and we all went on a ride with Thomas. It was really a beautiful day, wonderful weather, and great memories. That is, until the overly dramatic drive home. Conclusion: "A Day Out with Thomas" was fun, but way too far away.

Happenings Lately

2008-09-30T00:29:00.006-05:00

Liza has been doing better and better. Her headaches are not as frequent and she's experiencing generally better days more and more. She still has some tingling in her face and arms but even that seems to be off and on. Thanks for your prayers.

The kids are great. These pics are from my brother Travis' wedding a few weeks ago. They are growing quickly and smarting up quite a bit. Izzy, who won't be three until November, can hold a conversation with you as long as you want to - that is if big brother isn't around. Andrew is extremely keen too. He's enjoying his second year at pre-school where he found a new "best friend," Nicholas.

I've been loving my job as a teaching pastor, which I've been at for two months now. I'm through my first series and starting my second. It's been a total joy.

Thanks for all of your thoughts and prayers.

Hurricane Ike...Before and After

2008-09-20T17:38:00.014-05:00

We have survived Ike. Like many others we feel blessed to still have all of our family, our home, our pets, and basically all our belongings undamaged after such a frightfully menacing storm. We weathered the storm here at our home, Liza, the two kids, Sonja (Liza's mum) and I. That decision was made not without much consideration and careful study of the storm's path and strength. The only problem was Ike. He was rated a Category 2 storm (max sustained winds 110 mph), but many of his characteristics were more like a Category 4 storm. For instance, at one point the storm covered almost the entire Gulf of Mexico in its circular clouds and storms. It raised the level of ocean water almost 20 feet and sent wave after destructive wave into the bay of Houston and onto Galveston Island.

Here, near The Woodlands I wasn't worried about water or rain. Our home has a high foundation and can handle a really big flood. But winds...we were very worried about the winds. Our best estimate is that we experienced sustained winds at around 50 or 60 mph, but it probably gusted to 90 or 100 mph. That is what caused our damage.

These first pictures were taken a couple months ago for an architect that is helping us plan a long driveway and add on to the house. They happen to show the yard the way it was. The following pictures are similar shots the morning of Saturday September the 13, just hours after the eye pasted to the east of us. We had a total of 8 large trees down, three of them pine trees, and one of them 120 feet tall. At least three of them (with many others that didn't fall) could have cut our house in two. They all landed away from the house at various angles. (The only structural damage we incurred was when I took down a very large red oak tree myself, some hours before the storm. It was rotten at the base and hanging over the back of our house.

I remember thinking early in the morning on Saturday, after the power went out and the winds were gusting and howling - "I have made the wrong decision. We should not be here." That was one of the worst nights of my life. Tensing, waiting, squinting with each gust and expecting a loud crash or boom as a tree met the house. The only solace I was able to find was if I continued to pray instead of worry and wait. My prayer was singular and simple: Protect my family. Well that prayer was answered in the fullest sense. God spared us, our house, our dog, and my mother-in-laws house too. Liza and Sonja's studio was without damage, all of our cars were okay. How could it have been any better really.

On Sunday afternoon all five of us loaded up and made the trip to Falls City, my hometown near San Antonio, Texas. My parents welcomed us with open arms and didn't mention that they had "told us so." We won't make that mistake again. But we are the most fortunate ones in Houston. There are sections of the city that look like war zones, and whole subdivisions on the island of Galveston that have disappeared...just gone. Our electricity was restored on Thursday at about noon while my dad and I were here cleaning up the damage.

Next time...we are outta here.

Hunkerin' Down

2008-09-12T21:33:00.002-05:00

Well Hurricane Ike is upon us. We've decided to shelter in place like most of our friends and neighbors. We've also spent all day taking necessary precautions and preparing our back yard, front porch and house for the high winds.

There was a semi-rotten tree in our back yard hanging dangerously over our carport. Notice the verb tense - was. I decided to make a preemptive strike and take her down before Ike had a chance to and our carport suffered an inevitably large headache. Trying my best and even getting counsel from an older neighbor, we prepared and cranked up the chain saw. And despite our brilliant efforts, the tree crashed into the house anyway. Just a bit though - much less that it would had we left it alone. It caught the last 12 inches or so of the corner of the roof as it crashed to the ground - right where my lovely wife was standing (you should have seen her run and hide!). I was able to repair the damage and we should be okay.

Anyway pray for us and others in Southeast Texas over the next few days. There's no telling what we're in for. Blessings.

Getting Better and Better

2008-08-25T22:37:00.004-05:00

We celebrated our birthdays this weekend (Scot 24th, Liza 25th of August), and a funny change is taking place - besides our rising numbers of persistent aches. Since Liza was born in Australia on the 25th and I in Texas on the 24th, she figured out before we were even engaged that she was actually out of the womb 3 hours earlier than I was - even though the date is different because of the time change. For years we've been playfully bantering back and forth on who is older. You know what...she's beginning to let me win. I don't think either of us are "old" by a long shot, but I think we're both beginning to feel the accumulation of thousands of tiny changes that remind us we're not teenagers anymore. It's all kinda fun.

To celebrate we just took a night and a day vacation. A dear sweet family watched our two lovely children and we just enjoyed each others company at dinner, walking around, running errands, exercising and cooking. It was fantastic. All she wanted for her birthday was to get her hair done and to have a new diamond ring. The hair - worth every penny. The ring - $30. That's all she wanted. A cheap knock-off. I look forward to one day getting her a real one to take it's place. (She has a really nice wedding ring by the way - a real one - much more than $30.)

She is also beginning to feel "normal" a bit more regularly. Rest has helped. She has also decided to get completely off all medications and oddly enough, that has seemed to help. So keep praying for her, the pain and tightness and discomfort is FAR from gone, but better days have come. We pray for more. Many blessings.

One Year Anniversary and Birthday

2008-08-20T21:06:00.002-05:00

August 24-25 will mark the one year anniversary of Liza's Chiari symptoms. I remember going in to work on that day and getting a call from her that the whole left side of her face was numb and it was creeping down into her arm. Well, four MRI's, a major brain surgery, countless physical therapy appointments, and months of headaches bring us here. Liza has been doing better lately. She has been resting a bit better and still experiencing intermittent relief from headaches. Keep praying for her.

Oh, August 25 is her birthday. Some well wishes or comments would be great.

A New Idea

2008-08-20T10:34:00.005-05:00

I've recently started a new blogging venture that is intended to be more devotional. Please let me know what you think.
It's called OMNI relevant.

http://www.omnirelevant.blogspot.com/

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Still Here...Lots of News

2008-08-11T21:27:00.004-05:00

Well, the summer has almost come and gone for us. School and dance and pre-school are just around the corner for the Pollok family. And we've got much to catch you up on. This very old mosaic of bread and fish illustrates our summer experience in a lot of ways - as John 6 has become extremely important to us.

First of all, Liza has been doing a bit better lately, although inconsistently. We have actually seen some minor and short reprieves in the constant headache, that lasted about 15 weeks or so. We still think it is related to a cycle of headaches that are heavily dependent on stress, tension, and poor sleep - with which Liza has been excelling. This week she was supposed to be in China doing some choreography and dancing as a part of a ministry team during the Olympics - see earlier post with super-secret wording. But, the visas were denied and the trip was cancelled. But, even though China may not be an option, continue to pray for China and other opportunities for foreign missions for Liza and her dancers. Liza also enjoyed a bit of a break while I was in Dallas. Grandma and Pop Pollok took Andrew and Izzy both back to Falls City for about 6 days. They went fishing and took a trip to Sea World etc. It was a great time for them, and for Liza, who didn't really know what to do with herself for those 6 days. She slept in, had to work a bit, but just tried to relax. I think she succeeded too.

Liza also hosted and taught her annual summer camp/intensive at the studio with her mum last week. She had a bunch of students and it turned out very well. One of the students was our little Izzy, who went every day for an hour or so. She even put on a little "show" at the end of the week - dancing to a 3 minute song with a dozen other little dancers. It was precious. Pictures soon to come.

I have been busy lately too. After summer speaking waned, I traveled to Dallas for a week to take a New Testament class at the main campus of my seminary. It was a good class but I also got to spend several hours in the library doing some key research for my thesis - about 24 hours in total, to be exact. 2 classes this Fall, and 3 more in the Spring and graduation! If things remain close to the same, that graduation will come with "high honors." A few days after I got home from Dallas was the first day at my new job. I am now a teaching pastor at our church, Faith Bible Church. I will be teaching the second of our two Sunday services starting August 24. I am extremely excited and have been thoroughly enjoying my time of study and interaction in the office. I really can't imagine a better job to tell the truth. Please pray for me in this new position if you think about it.

The kids have been really well too. We had a fun dentist adventure lately. Andrew and Izzy both got their teeth cleaned but Andrew had to go back and get a root canal and cap. He was a trooper and the pediatric dentist office was just superb. He is very proud of his "shiny tooth" now. We've been going to local public pools often and taking trips as a family whenever we can. The summer has actually been very good (it took us about ten minutes to get a picture of them both in the air).

Thanks for your patience with us and especially your prayers. We covet them and love you. Many blessings, and now that we're back in it, more posts soon.

Oh...Summertime

2008-07-18T21:57:00.002-05:00

I just got back from my last week speaking at youth camps, so the family is all together again. The kids went to the dentist while I was gone and did fabulously well. We went to the pool again today, which has quickly become one of our favorite things to do. Andrew is jumping in and swimming all by himself (with the assistance of inflatable arm floaties, of course). He's very excited about this new little freedom.

Izzy is a little ill today. Her molars are coming in but the fever was a bit too high for teething issues. We are praying against another round of the strep bacteria which has plagued all four of us recently. We'll see how the night goes.

Liza is still plodding on about the same. Headaches are consistent fixtures in her world still. We're still trying to maximize her opportunities to rest but the summer schedule and sicknesses have subverted those plans. We'll keep trying and praying. Thanks for checking in with us.

Week at Camp and Andrew's Birthday

2008-06-29T18:06:00.007-05:00

We had a great week at camp - though Liza was pretty busy watching two kids as I worked (spoke 7 times in 4 days, then 4 more times this weekend). We all had a blast riding around on golf carts, swimming, playing basketball, UNO, and eating watermelon. Going to the "restaurant," or cafeteria, was also a treat they enjoyed three times a day. But when we got back it was full-on prep time for Andrew's birthday bash, which was today. It was awesome, and the rain held off just enough. We had tons of friends come over and had rented a HUGE inflatable water slide. Enjoy the pictures and many thanks to those of you who came and blessed our son with your presence and gifts. It's an understatement to say that he was overwhelmed...so were his parents. Thanks.

Date Weekend into Long Week

2008-06-23T00:21:00.002-05:00

Liza and I actually went on a date this weekend (surprisingly, we've had several in the last couple of months). A good friend, and former student of mine, was married yesterday downtown in grand style. Liza and I got all dressed up and spent the night chatting, eating, and waiting for the right song to dance to - it finally came. It was a lovely evening. The wedding was beautiful, the bride stunning, but my date almost stole the show. In a borrowed dress, no less, she looked amazing, even though she toted her headache with her. The new muscle relaxants don't seem to be much different than the old ones yet. But we are still trying to get her some good rest and remain hopeful as to the meds. This week the whole family will go camping (in a hotel room on a campsite), as I teach the Scriptures to hundreds of junior high kids from Houston. We're all really looking forward to it, although we've still got tons of packing to do. Pray for us this week.

Please keep Liza's mum in your prayers also. Her stepfather, lovingly called "Wolf," a shortened version of his very German "Wolfgang," suffered a large stroke yesterday in Germany and is not faring well. Sonja flies to New York tomorrow and will likely be off to Germany within a couple days.

Appointment Update

2008-06-18T16:27:00.003-05:00

Well, after waiting an hour, Liza met with our neurologists, Dr. Reza. He is terribly wonderful and warm, funny and patient. Liza enjoys his personality, candor and knowledge. They talked for a while and the good doc began to pay special attention to her neck area. He thinks that the headaches are primarily muscular and structural, meaning that she needs to focus on relaxing and healing the muscles instead of building them up. The left side of her neck muscles and shoulder muscles are noticeably more pronounced than her right. Her head even sits a little off-center because of the difference. It is this problem that is likely the cause of all the pain.

So...she is excited to try some new muscle relaxant medication samples that should help her sleep and not feel drugged in the morning. Along with better quality and more rest, relaxing physical therapy is on the menu. She goes first thing tomorrow morning. So all of this is very good news and encouraging, although today has been particularly painful (as was yesterday). Please continue to pray for my dear Liza.

Izzy's "First" Class

2008-06-18T11:48:00.006-05:00

Well here are some precious little pictures of our precious little ballerina. Although she has actually been in two classes before, yesterday began her official entrance into a full baby class (a little tap and a little ballet). She will go twice a week for three weeks, and take it as quite an understatement that she has enjoyed it. While she was in class, Andrew and I went on a date and bought a one dollar train engine that we glued together and painted. It was awesome.

Liza is currently at the neurologists and I will report the news when she gets home. I am praying that the doc will offer some medicinal answers to the headaches. Meanwhile, enjoy the pics.

Like Mother Like Daughter

2008-06-16T16:52:00.005-05:00

Although she eats a lot like her father, little Izzy is all mommy's girl. Lately she's been talking more and more about ballet and we've decided to let her take a few classes at the ballet school this summer. That means...ballet gear. Liza took her on a little date today and these pictures include all of the results. She did not let the bag out of her hand from the store home, put on everything immediately upon arrival, and has not taken them off since - even through a nap. It's been much fun to watch her excitement.

Liza is doing about the same. The headaches are still here and she's only had those two days of reprieves. We've been trying to get her more rest but it would seem that other forces are not cooperating. We plan to keep our neurologist appointment on Wednesday morning and still hope to get some medication that helps.

I have started going into the church office and working on my thesis for a good amount of hours the past couple of weeks. It is slow going but I'm getting some stuff done. It has also been "officially" announced that I have accepted a fantastic teaching position at our church, Faith Bible Church. It is a full-time position that I will tackle as I finish the last few classes, and thesis, for my Masters of Theology from Dallas Seminary. Starting in late August I will be teaching in one of the Sunday morning services at our church every week. I have been given the freedom to be creative as I use the gifts our gracious Lord has given. I am terribly excited.

Andrew is also doing very well. His fourth birthday is coming up in a couple of weeks and mom has been busy planning a great celebration for him. He is becoming quite the little boy. We've been enjoying local swimming pools and the summer sun the past few weeks. Next week the family will join me on my first away speaking engagement of the summer - a camp just north of us about an hour. That should be a whole lot of fun for us all.

More after Liza's appointment.

Short Reprieve

2008-06-05T23:20:00.003-05:00

Well, unfortunately I passed on strep throat to my wife. I like to share my things. So she went to the clinic on Tuesday and got a shot of antibiotics - which for someone who used to be dreadfully afraid of shots, is a huge thing. "After brain surgery, a shot ain't nothing," she said.

And this morning, Thursday morning, she actually woke up without a headache! She said that she only had some pressure behind her eyes. A few minutes later she accidentally hit her head on a lantern hanging on our front porch and was right back in the thick of things. I think the rest has been doing her very good. I've been trying to get up with the kids and let her sleep in these past few mornings, and she's been able to get over the guilt of it (self-imposed) and take advantage. I plan on offering much more rest in the coming days. Hopefully the antibiotics will kick in, the strep will leave, and the rest will relieve some of the headache pain. More soon.

Finally...rest

2008-06-03T23:07:00.002-05:00

Well, the performances went very well (my humble opinion), and now Liza will enjoy a little, much-needed, time off. I should have some pictures soon. This week we have little planned other than family things. We went and got the kids a blow-up pool on Monday and they've been loving that.

Although I don't work at the restaurant anymore (hallelujah), I'm beginning the speaking season for summer camps and retreats. I will speak 14 times in June and several in July - two of which will be with one of my DTS professors in the classroom. I'm very excited to be doing what I love to do.

We also made an appointment with our original neurologist for Liza today. The appointment is not until June 18, so we are thinking of looking elsewhere for less of a wait. We think that with the right medication the cycle of headaches that she has been experiencing can be broken. That would literally change her life. She's going on two months now - living, mothering, dancing, etc. - with one solid headache. It's been difficult.

That's it for now.

Big Week

2008-05-27T22:23:00.005-05:00

Well, this is the week for the performance. As I write this Liza is still at Dress Rehearsal, the kids are sleeping, and I've been laid up all day with a bad case of strep throat. There is one more rehearsal on Thursday, and then one performance on Friday night, and two Saturday. The props are done. The dances are choreographed (many of them brand new). Just a bit more practice and cleaning before the curtain is drawn. Please pray for Liza because she is going to be feeling the lack of rest, extra stress, and pain that will accompany dancing. After this weekend, she will have a good while off from teaching and dancing. During that time we hope to finalize some of the headache management. Please pray for her. Thanks.

Working through the Pain

2008-05-22T10:52:00.007-05:00

Although, we feel like we've gotten down the road toward some resolution, Liza hasn't realized any of that resolution yet. And the next week and a half will be difficult. That is because her studio, school, and professional company are putting on an original ballet performance of The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe at McCullough High School next weekend (May 30, 31). You can go to http://www.balletexcelsior.org/ for more details.

This extra work and passion has really caused these tension/vascular headaches to get a little worse. She came home last night and was in a bad way. She's trying to finish and clean all of the dances and is actually dancing in several as the White Witch. By her own admission, it's a little easier to be a Witch when you're in constant pain. So please pray for her these next ten days or so. She is looking forward to taking the whole month of June off to try and recover and de-stress, that is if the children cooperate. They obviously know something is still wrong with mommy and continually swarm her when she is at home. We know that is the case because it is very different when it's just daddy.

In the meantime, we are starting to contact some neurologists so that we can get moving with the pain medication and other meds in an attempt to break the cycle of headaches. Thank you so very much for your continued reading of this blog and your prayers on our behalf. You have been such a blessing to us all.

The Official Word

2008-05-19T17:29:00.002-05:00

We've just arrived home from the doctor's office and we think, at least now, that we've received some encouraging reports. So first of all, thank you for your prayers. Let me break it down.

Dr. Comair came in and was his normal quiet, comforting, and attentive self. He asked a bunch of questions about the exact nature and location of Liza's headache pain. He then went on to explain that this type of headache was in no way related directly to the Chiari - or now, lack thereof. A Chiari-type headache comes on strong and fast, usually when an individual is lifting something or straining in some way. It then dissipates rather slowly. Liza's headache is more pressure-related, and manifests itself constantly behind her eyes and on the top of her head. Dr. Comair was certain that there was some other cause.

As the conversation continued, two types of headaches were discussed: tension headaches and vascular headaches. It is Dr. Comair's opinion that Liza is suffering through a cycle of the two types, both of which can cause pain in the sufferer for an extended period of time - Liza's headache is now almost 6 weeks old.

He then explained how the vascular and tension headaches play off of each other and repeat in a cycle - likely beginning with the extra tension Liza experienced around the several Easter dancing performances in which she participated. This tension headache led to a vascular headache which likely manifests itself in pressure-style pain.

He then took us in his office and showed us the extensive MRI images from before and after the surgery. The difference was noticeable even to our untrained eye. I think he was quite proud of his work. He also explained away other potential causes that we feared, like a leak in the incision site of cerebral spinal fluid. He actually almost chuckled at this serious question and assured us that there was a zero percent chance of a leak. He showed us on the MRI where the leak would be easily detected. That was very reassuring.

One final cause, which combined with the other headaches, began to make perfect sense. He also showed us in the MRI images how the cerebral portion of Liza's spine is also TOO straight. She asked if it was because, as a dancer, she was trained to straighten her spine. He agreed that might be true, but more likely a trained dancer that is highly aware of their body would only slightly straighten their spine beyond the NORMAL curvature that is expected. The spine normally curves three times, slightly in at the top, slightly out in the middle, and then in again near the base. This curve actually supports the weight of the head and shoulders. Without it we would all be in severe pain when we stood or sat upright. Liza's neck is apparently too straight, which is a sign that her muscles are still very much in the healing process and are "spasming" quite severely.

His prognosis: go back and see the neurologists that we saw a few times before meeting Dr. Comair and he will prescribe some medication that will help relax the muscles of the neck and another to help break the cycle of tension/vascular headaches. This will hopefully bring some relief to Liza's pain and help her neck muscles continue to heal.

And that's about it. We are encouraged by the MRI images and that there seems to be no negative results from the surgery itself, other than the continuing recovery steps, which are both necessary and difficult. Now we are going to try to make yet more appointments to bring more resolution to Liza's struggle. Thanks again for all of your concern, prayers, and thoughts. Continue to pray that she would be able to rest more - which is a big key, sleep better, and that our wonderful children would cooperate which this plan. Many blessings.

Today is the Day

2008-05-19T10:17:00.002-05:00

Well, about 1:00 PM, Texas time, we will be headed down to Baylor College of Medicine to meet with our outstanding neurosurgeon Dr. Youseff Comair and his wonderful nurse practitioner Shirley Sebastian. We hope to get on our way toward some answers and take a substantial move in pain management today. Please pray that our visit is productive, encouraging, and pleasant. Thanks for your continued concern and prayers. More after.

Headache at the Zoo

2008-05-12T22:19:00.006-05:00

Well, after an attempt at sleeping in, Liza offered the possibility of going to the zoo today with the kids, seeing as it was absolutely beautiful outside. The rest of us happily agreed.

It was really a lovely day. The kids haven't been in well over a year and they were both old enough to be much more involved and aware. The only problem was the one that has been plaguing our family for the last five weeks - mommy's headache. It was especially bad today for some reason.

Just one more week until our meeting with Dr. Comair and Shirley (see earlier posts). We hope to get some answers and get something to help her with the constant pain. But mostly, we need the answers. Meanwhile, we're trying to make some more massage therapy appointments to help with the pressure. Please keep praying and enjoy some pictures of our precious (most of the time) children. Actually they are quite brilliant and precious all of the time, we just have been struggling with attitudes a bit lately. Parenting.

Still an aching head

2008-05-10T01:14:00.002-05:00

Liza is still suffering with the constant pain in her head. When I came home tonight after a long day of work she was about to go to bed and simply said that the pain was killing her. She is getting very tired and weary of the consistent inability to feel normal. Please continue to pray that she sleeps, the pain resides, and we find answers soon. Thank you for reading and especially for praying. I've seen many of you in person recently and your encouragement is truly a blessing.

Recent Ups and Downs

2008-05-06T00:08:00.005-05:00

Hello my fellow blog readers. I apologize for not writing more consistently as of late. I unfortunately might have to resume my authorship post more frequently in the near future.

The last few weeks (four plus to be exact) have seen Liza struggle with some more severe symptoms. She has been suffering from a terrible pressure type headache that centers in the area of the surgery. This pressure headache has been constant, and when I say constant, that's what I mean. She wakes up with it and goes to bed with it. Sometimes it gets worse throughout the day and other times it just stays level. But it has not gone away in over a month. The medication we have available doesn't seem to help at all so we have been seeking answers elsewhere.

About ten days ago now Liza went and had yet another MRI. This time they took pictures, with and without intravenous contrast, of her full head and then of her neck and spinal area. I picked up the CD of images as soon as they were ready and mailed them to our wonderful neurosurgical team and waited for their call. As it turns out, Dr. Comair was extremely pleased with the pictures and even said he was "quite proud" of the work that was done. The pictures of Liza's spinal area around C1 and C2 are now perfect - nothing wrong at all. That's good news on the one hand. But why the headaches? The good Doc couldn't answer that right away.

So while the team reviews her case, we wait for our appointment to see them face to face yet again. That appointment is not until May 19th. So in the meantime, we would covet your prayers for Liza's health and continued healing, and most especially for freedom from the intense pain of these pressure headaches.

Many other things have been happening in the mean time. Andrew and Izzy are both doing very well and getting very "grown up." They are learning so much and have been enjoying the outdoors and actually each other lately. Andrew's first year of preschool is almost over and he has enjoyed it very much. Izzy has been privileged to attend a few "baby" ballet classes as a special treat and we can't seem to keep her from dancing. I think she wants to be just like her mommy. Andrew, as it turns out is just like his daddy. LEGOs are his new favorite toy. I have all but wrapped up yet another semester of my Masters work and have officially begun my Thesis work. I'm still working at the restaurant here in town but hope to be in ministry very soon.

Well, I think that catches us all up for now. Be watching for more frequent posts in the near future. I'll keep you up to date on all things "Liza." Please continue to pray for her. Many blessings.

Resurrection with Special Significance

2008-03-27T01:59:00.005-05:00

This Easter was just great with our little family. We had some Easter egg hunts and spent a ton of time talking with the kids about what Jesus went through this week a long time ago. "Jesus died on the cross" I can hear Izzy saying that in her sweet little voice even now. But why did he die? "He died for you, and you, and you, and me!" Andrew says. What happened on Easter Sunday? "He rose up from the dead!" It's a beautiful thing to hear these precious and life-giving truths from the lips on the little ones you love so much. Enjoy one of the pictures we took (in Andrew's pajamas and Izzy's personal choice).

But sadly, my grandmother also died this holy week. She was 93 years old and the last of that generation on my father's side. We buried her the Monday after Easter and all I could think about during the service was the resurrection. One day. Yes, one day Jesus will rip open the sky and return with a shout and all the dead will rise. I look forward to the day when all believers will share the unhindered presence of God as a united, universal and complete church for the very first time. I have great hope that my grandmother will be there along with countless others that have gone before her. I look forward to that day.

So does Liza, actually. She is still busy with physical therapy and trying to get her body back into shape, externally and internally. She has decided to take April off from dancing to give her body a better chance of resting and healing. Keep praying for her. Many blessings.

Happenings of Late

2008-03-19T15:05:00.002-05:00

Things have been steadily improving...let's say changing...around the Pollok house. Liza is still actively attending therapy and working hard to get her range of motion back. Her increased hours of teaching AND DANCING have brought back some of the numbness and tingling, but in her words "it's nothing like it was before." Most likely, these sensations are still a normal part of the nerve regeneration and healing. Her headaches are lessening except for a couple multi-day bouts lately. She still is not sleeping well and daily struggles with the affects of this difficult recovery. Please continue to pray for her.

She will be dancing this Easter weekend at a local church on 1488. She and members of her company will be performing three times throughout the weekend plus a dress rehearsal. This will be one of the first (third, officially, I think) times Liza will be back on stage in a major way. I'm so very proud of her and all of the hard work, pain, and struggle that it's taken to get where she is. She is still actively working and preparing for a special ministry opportunity this summer overseas. Details are sensitive.

The kids, Andrew and Izzy, are doing great as well, although they seem to be testing the limits of Mummy and Daddy's discipline and consistency lately. They are excited about the better weather and are growing up way too fast. It seems we're doing everything we can to slow them down. We want them to have a good long, healthy, and happy childhood.

I'm still busy with school, but currently enjoying the break for Spring. If classes are available in the Fall, it looks like I will be finished this December. That will make it officially five and a half years. My thesis will likely carry me over to May of next year which is still quickly approaching. I am so thankful for this wonderful time of training and all of the people that have prayed for and supported us in this adventure. We're also praying about several ministry opportunities that have presented themselves. It would be so good to once again leave the restaurant industry. I'm thankful for my job but am getting weary.

That's about it. Thank you so much for your continued comments and prayers. You are treasures to us. Many blessings.

Finally Back at it

2008-02-12T22:26:00.003-06:00

Well, the flu-funk has finally left our house...at least we think so. All four of us have been symptom-free for several days now and starting to gain strength. Izzy is feeling fine and beginning to show signs of some unexpected maturity and growth. Andrew has been back in pre-school for a couple weeks now and loving it. He is also showing signs of increased communication skills, language skills, and interpersonal relationships. Do I sound like a geeky father or what?

Liza has been hard at physical therapy the last few weeks, going sometimes four times a week. We've seen the difference as well. Her range of motion is visibily better, from my perspective at least, and that has been encouraging. However, she's been experiencing some severe headaches the last few days which had previously tapered off quite a bit.

Recently she went through a Detox regimine in a successful attempt to get all her body functions back in sync. It was difficult but has been very encouraging and helpful.

I have been traveling and speaking (teaching the Bible) much more in recent weeks. I was gone all last weekend ministering to Junior High students in west Texas and will travel to Dallas, Texas this coming weekend to meet with High School students. The weekend after that I will be preaching at a local church for their students. In between family, school and work, this schedule has been tough, but it has also been energizing. I love communicating the truth of the Bible to anyone who will listen, so despite the difficulties, it has been an honor and privilege to serve those I've come in contact with recently. I look forward to more.

That probably brings you more up to speed than you wanted to be about the Pollok clan. We still appreciate those of you who check in on us and especially your prayers for Liza and the rest of us. We covet those prayers and are constantly thankful "remembering you always in our prayers." Many blessings.

My Talented Wife

2008-01-28T23:25:00.000-06:00

We're still battling through sickness. It just doesn't want to go away. Liza has been taking a short break from physical therapy because of the sickness but will resume this week.

She received word this week of a tremendous honor. It's a little touchy to talk about on the Internet, so please ask her about if you see her.

I'm still plugging away at school and will be speaking for the next several weekends. The kids are struggling to get over sickness but are doing well. Much love and many blessings. More soon.

Change of Roles

2008-01-21T13:18:00.000-06:00

Well, the Polloks have had an eventful week or so. Liza has gone from receiver of care to care-giver in our household. I came down with what I thought was a sinus infection early last week. I tried to eat right and drink right and sleep right in order to get over it. I thought it was working when on Thursday, for some unknown reason, it blew up. I could barely walk on Friday and Saturday and Sunday. Liza has been bravely picking up the slack. Our wonderful doctor called in some emergency antibiotics for me and I am just this morning beginning to feel better. I think it's the flu because I feel like I've been in a car accident.

Well, as things would go, it seems that Andrew has picked it up as well. He's battling a fever and a cough, as is Izzy. They have a doctor's appointment later today just to get on top of things. All the while Liza has been getting up with the kids, cooking, cleaning, and serving the sick in our home. She has been wonderful.

Enough of this sob story...we're doing just fine. Liza hasn't been feeling all that well but currently she is at the doctor as well. This time it's back to her old family doctor she hasn't seen since the beginning of our marriage. Hopefully she can suggest some other things Liza can be doing to help her nerves heal and the therapy process move along.

I have started another semester of school and have been speaking more frequently. By the grace of God I made all A's last semester and after this one only have one more to go...hopefully.

Please continue to pray for the little ones and Liza as we all battle to return to health. Right now the kids are eating lunch on a mattress in a huge pop-tent in the middle of the living room. I promised I'd join them so I'd better go. Many blessings and much thanks.

UPDATE - Scot - flu; Andrew - flu; Izzy - croup; and Liza - getting a bit worse. Wow, when it rain it pours, yeah? But despite the difficulties, God is still being infinitely gracious and good to us. We are loving each other, still laughing, and trying to sleep as much as we can.

Still Fighting

2008-01-06T21:37:00.000-06:00

I'm sorry it has been a while since we've posted. We are enjoying the break from school and the ballet school. It has been a great time with family, and a noticeable break from physical therapy. Liza didn't go for the whole week of Christmas, as I said before, and she's only been a few times since. She has more lined up for this week, but she has noticed a difference. Her range of motion has regressed a bit and her stiffness has increased. She is determined to see it through and continue, with a possible change of plan a bit. She's been seeing two therapists, alternating between them. One focuses on the muscles and nerves, the other focuses on range of motion. She is thinking of switching to a different therapist for her range of motion work.

I've been taking it easy, having just about a week left before school starts up again. I've been working a lot at the restaurant and getting all of the jobs done around the house that have been put off. I've got another busy week ahead of me, but without the added pressure of school for just a bit longer. This coming Spring semester will be my penultimate semester before I graduate in December of this year with my Masters of Theology. We are all very excited. It's quite a long program at 120 hours, but I've loved every second.

The kids are doing well. Izzy had her second ear tube surgery a few weeks ago and seems to be doing very well. Andrew's preschool has started back up although he didn't attend the first day. They have been loving the holiday break as well, eating too much candy and staying up too late. But that's what the holidays are for.

We are still encouraged by all the comments and are consistently blessed by your prayers and well wishes. Thank you all again and many blessings in this new year. May the LORD draw you close this year and take you to heights and depths you never expected. Liza and I are reading through the Bible together this year and invite you to think about joining us.

Our 100th Post

2007-12-30T00:16:00.000-06:00

Yes, we're still here. We traveled to the tiny town of Falls City for Christmas this year. That's where I (Scot) grew up. It has fewer people in it now than when I lived there - population 474. It is still a wonderful place thought, full of relatives and memories on almost every corner. It was a white Christmas there three years ago, but not this year. It was actually quite hot.

After the four hour drive, which wasn't too bad, we had another gift-giving Christmas celebration with my parents and brother. It was a real treat. We attended the only church in town on Christmas morning, Holy Trinity Catholic Church, which was the church I attended growing up. We then spent the rest of the day at my grandfather's house, which was filled with aunts, uncles and cousins. That's what Christmas means to me - being with family at my grandfather's house. It was special having my family there too.

We made it back home last night after another four hour drive, this only a little more painful than the first. I'm not yet one of those dads that say "don't make me come back there..." or "I'll turn this thing around." Liza has not had physical therapy in over a week and is feeling the lack. She told me just a second ago that she feels like she's moving backward. She hasn't been able to rest well and she's been in constant discomfort. If we can get her resting better, that will be a huge step forward. Please pray for that. She will have five days of physical therapy this week.

School is done for the semester and it feels really good to have a break. I'm doing some clean-up study (a few things left over from the semester work load) and trying to find time to do some projects around the house. Blessings to you all and many thanks for continuing to check in here, read, and pray for my sweet wife. I also thought I'd share some more family Christmas photos.

The Christmas Splits

2007-12-24T11:27:00.000-06:00

I haven't posted in a while because I have both finished my semester of school and subsequently crashed the plane, so to speak. I have been totally wiped the last few days. Otherwise, the Polloks are still here and doing rather well.

Liza actually DANCED on Saturday night! Well, she performed a solo at the beginning of a piece called "Agnus Dei" in which she basically "moves her arms around," in her own words. She did no jumping, turning or spinning for you that are worried. It was a big step, very encouraging for her, and made all the family very proud and worried. Our good God is bringing my wife back to her passionate ministry with a new fervor and drive. It really is a beautiful thing to watch.

Yesterday I drove Sonja to the airport headed to Australia to spend Christmas with her family and friends there. That means she'll be arriving about now, our time. It's a long way. We are headed to Falls City this morning to spend Christmas with my family there. It will be our first without my grandma and should be a special one. Jacob and Amy will also be heading to Australia in a couple weeks, after they and Steven spend Christmas with Amy's family. So we are all headed in different directions this Christmas, which I suppose is becoming more and more normal in our time.

Many warm blessings on your Christmas celebration this year. Please be full of our gratitude and thoughts as you and your friends and family gather around the warmth of the story of our Savior, humbled to be born in a feeding trough in the likeness of you and I. He was born on a mission to save us from our sins - the only thing by the way, that no other world religion offers a solution for. Christ was born to solve man's deepest problem - himself. I pray that you find yourself in that story this Christmas and perhaps for the first time, you truly celebrate Christ's birth. Blessings and Merry Christmas.

Christmas after a long year

2007-12-17T23:53:00.001-06:00

This year the Pollok family experienced quite a bit. We will have gone through three surgeries, one funeral, and over two dozen rounds of antibiotics. But Christmas is our favorite time of year and we're extremely excited to be here again, whole, healthy and together. Liza is still making progress in baby steps. She's busy plugging away at therapy and is trying to keep the headaches to a minimum, but they're not really in her control. Please keep praying for her. Here are some of the cuter pictures from our new family Christmas album.

Long Weekend

2007-12-17T01:00:00.000-06:00

We've had a great weekend, but it was full. We had one of our good friends come in and take some family Christmas photos at our house on Friday morning, AFTER Liza had yet another physical therapy appointment. They turned out extremely good and we'll post some soon. I worked about ten hours that evening and Liza went to the studio again. Saturday was unusual in that Liza and I got to sleep in a bit. Sonja took the kids for breakfast and we went back to bed. It was glorious. I worked again that evening and Liza and the kids went down to Spring for the third evangelistic Christmas show her school and company has been involved in. They froze their skinny little rears off. We again slighted this morning by taking the family just to one hour of church, our adult community. Then it was home for naps and football. We started to put up some outside Christmas lights tonight and just spent a lot of time lounging around the house, baking cookies, etc. Tomorrow it's back at it. Thanks for the continued prayers. Keep praying for Liza's recovery, especially in the area of neck pain and headaches.

The Daily Grind

2007-12-13T23:47:00.000-06:00

It would seem that Liza's life is consumed with physical therapy at the moment. She went yesterday for an extended and fruitful time and will go again tomorrow morning. Her range of motion in the neck is steadily increasing through much hard work and pain. I'm very proud of her.

Both of the kids are fighting off illness; Andrew has it the worst. He has missed his preschool classes all week. Hopefully over the weekend, which is supposed to be cold, he will start to feel better. Poor little guy has been such a trooper. Liza and I have also been working quite a bit lately. I was at the restaurant 14 hours yesterday and will go again tomorrow - hopefully not as long. Liza has also been working longer hours at the studio. She actually jumped yesterday. She probably won't do it again for a while. Many blessings.

More Returns

2007-12-11T23:22:00.000-06:00

Tonight, all of the Polloks officially returned to their small group at church for the first time. Liza has been several times, I've been a couple of times, but the four of us have not been together since before Liza's surgery. It was a big deal for us to get back to some of the best friends we have.

Yesterday we had a wonderful time as a family. I went and picked up a tree in the morning and we got all of the decorations down out of the attic. The kids loved going through the boxes and putting all of the ornaments on the tree. It was a ton of fun for them.

The best part for me was putting up the manger. We have been telling them the story of Jesus' birthday but it was fascinating to see them "take in" the manger scene. Izzy keeps going and stealing baby Jesus. Today she blew his nose because he had "boogers." We're trying to find new and creative ways to make Christmas about the Lord for our kids, about giving, about worship, about the story. It's quite the adventure being a parent.

Liza did more physical therapy today and has been in some pain ever since. She's definitely not getting an "enjoyable" massage when she goes to massage therapy, lest anyone misunderstand. Her therapist spent almost two hours today working on her neck with hot rocks and deep tissue massage. That is not a pleasant thing for a neck in Liza's condition. And she's got several more lined up for this week. We'll stay in touch.

Church Double Dip

2007-12-09T22:21:00.000-06:00

Liza actually went to church twice today and fared rather well. This morning the whole family went to a bit of "big church" and then it was off to our community group - the most that Liza can handle at this time. She enjoyed catching up with the couples there and then it was off home. (Some pictures from the day - Izzy's wonderful disposition and Andrew hiding in the couch.)

After lunch, nap, bath time and a light dinner, we all headed back to church for our annual Christmas Cafe. Tonight was the last of four shows and it was absolutely fantastic. All four of us sat together down front and the kids loved it as much as we did. They clapped and sang and danced. It was really a nice time. Liza was blessed to have several people that have been praying for her and supporting us come up and visit. It was a wonderful night out as a family.

The only challenge was getting the kids settled and down off their sugar high - lots of candy available at the Cafe. Ah, it was worth it.

This week coming is filled with finalizing school for the semester, work for both of us, and lots of physical therapy. Andrew is fighting a cold and cough and Izzy is hopefully holding off on another ear infection until tubes come the week after. You can still pray for the muscles in Liza's neck to start cooperating with physical therapy - especially those on the front right and back left (sounds like we're changing her tires). Most of her pain comes from those two places and from all over when she does too much. But generally, I think she is still encouraged and progressing. Thanks for all your prayers, well wishes, and support. We are indebted to you all. Blessings.

A Word from Paul

2007-12-07T16:22:00.001-06:00

A wise, godly, old Bible professor I know of was once asked a question. "What would you do differently if you could do it all over again?" His answer was simple and quickly given. "I would read the Bible more."

I think of that statement very often, especially when I find that I haven't sought the joy and intimacy of reading my Bible in a while. Yesterday was one of those days. I've been reading through the book of 2 Corinthians. This was among what I read:

For we who live are constantly being delivered over to death for Jesus' sake, so that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our mortal flesh. So death works in us, but life in you. But having the same spirit of faith, according to what is written, "I believed therefore I spoke," we also believe, therefore we also speak, knowing that He who raised the Lord Jesus will raise us also with Jesus and will present us with you. For all things are for your sakes, so that the grace which is spreading to more and more people may cause the giving of thanks to abound to the glory of God.
Therefore we do not lose heart, but though our outer man is decaying, yet our inner man is being renewed day by day. For momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison, while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal.

I think that's all that need be said.

Catching Up

2007-12-06T22:45:00.001-06:00

The last few days have been filled with activity. Preschool for the kids, work/school/sinus infection for me, and more physical therapy and even some teaching for Liza. Yes, that's right, she went to the studio tonight and taught a level 7 ballet class, after driving herself to a therapy appointment and the grocery store. She's doing quite well, but it's all taking a toll. She is in quite a bit of pain and is utterly exhausted. I'm trying to get her to slow down a little bit, but you can see how well that's working.

Today, the therapist could move Liza's head all the way to her left shoulder, but on the other side (stretching the left side of the neck) it didn't go nearly as far. She was with her for two hours today working on the muscles and her range of motion. She will go back to St. Luke's early tomorrow for another appointment there just to see if her experience gets any better. The more therapy the quicker the recovery...but she can't over do it.

Thanks again for all of your faithful reading. Many blessings and many thanks.

Mom...on her own again

2007-12-04T23:53:00.000-06:00

I'm so very proud of my wife. She is working hard to get back to normal. She had another physical therapy appointment today but she wasn't impressed. It was at St. Luke's, but the therapist wasn't as good as the other she's been going to, and she did all of the same stuff. So it's back to our good friend Cindy from now on. She only went to St. Luke's because we wanted to see if the PT that the neurologist ordered was any different that what we've been receiving. Question asked and answered.

I worked a double again today, so Liza was actually mom by herself today. The kids went to preschool again so she had a little reprieve this morning, the afternoon made up for it. Little Izzy, who is tentatively scheduled to receive a second set of tubes December 20, stumbled and busted her tiny little lip. It was quite a dramatic scene from what I've heard. But otherwise, the children are as cute and good as they've always been (they're both getting really good at pushing each other with quite a bit of force).

Many blessings to you all.

First Solo Sortie

2007-12-04T00:25:00.000-06:00

Believe it or not, Liza got in a car and went out on her own for the first time today. During the kids' nap time, she grabbed the keys (with my hesitant approval) and slowly headed down the road to do some very minor Christmas shopping, one of her favorite activities of the year. So please keep praying for her...and all the others on the road. (She probably won't do that again for a while, I was a nervous wreck.)

The Providence of God

2007-12-02T21:38:00.000-06:00

Today was a restful day for Liza...at least in the beginning of it, that is. She rested relatively well during the night, then helped the kids and I get ready for church. We left for a little breakfast date of donuts and chocolate milk (not the most nutritious meal, but fun) and she went back to bed. The kids love church. They each made little crafts and talked about the Christmas story in their respective rooms. I finished teaching the book of Ruth in our Sunday School class. We got home a little after one and woke Liza up with immediate drama. She did get to lay back down for a nap after lunch. The evening was a beautifully simple Sunday evening, filled with playing and watching football. Liza needed a restful day after such a hectic day yesterday.

While we're on the subject, the book of Ruth has captured my attention. On reason is that I've been translating it from the Hebrew all semester and have had several exams on the subject. The other reason is that I've been teaching it and trying to internalize its wonderful message, which foundationally is about God's providential working in human affairs and the kindness and loyalty that we are asked to show as His children. The intricacies of the story prove the point very well. My favorite passage is in chapter 2, "and Ruth just happened to chance upon the field belonging to Boaz." I just love that because "if Ruth picks the wrong field, we can take down the Christmas lights," as one of my professors says. The narrator writes this account in such a way as to describe Ruth walking down the road trying to decide which field to glean in; for some reason she chooses Boaz's field. God providentially provided for the desperate situation of a widow and a Gentile in the most gentle guidance. Wow. I love it. That's what God does. He graciously provides for our needs in his wonderful plan. In the book of Ruth it turned out to be King David, and the bloodline of Jesus. In the life of the Polloks, sometimes its just a restful Sunday afternoon when we need it the most.

Busy Weekend

2007-12-01T10:24:00.000-06:00

Liza actually had planned to go to the studio again yesterday but thankfully decided to try to rest. I'm not sure that she accomplished her goal though. The kids had the meltdown of all meltdowns late last night, as I was away at school of course. Liza and her mum had to try to handle two hysterical kids while they were both running on fumes.

This morning we both arose early, I back to a full day of school, and Liza to a local high school to prepare her girls for their involvement in a fundraiser. Then tonight, she will do the same for an evangelistic Christmas ministry in Spring (a town just south of us). Izzy and Andrew are excited to go and see the camels. Izzy wants to pet them. Yeah, we'll see about that. She talks a big talk. She LOVES animals...but from a distance. Tomorrow, another Sunday School teaching opportunity. We've been going through the book of Ruth. I'm loving it.

I've also been thinking about what I have discovered is one of the most prevalent emotions or dispositions of our age; one that I am intimately associated with. Exhaustion. I don't think there is a more popular answer in our home to the question "how are you?" I'm sure you relate - especially if you're an American, but probably just because you're a human. For some reason we are tempted to measure the quality of our day by the amount of things we get done. Exhaustion then becomes like an award at the end of a "good" day. The Bible would agree...sometimes. To be tired at the end of a hard day's work is a good thing. But busy-ness is not always good. Remember Jesus' words, "Martha, Martha..." And although I hate it, I feel extremely busy. Most of us do.

The beautiful side of busy-ness though, is the opportunity it affords us to depend and rely on God. In the midst of our running and panting and trying and hurrying and working, we MUST become intimately acquainted with the strength, peace, hope, and invigorating Spirit that only God provides. Liza and I have unexpectedly bumped up against this strength and peace. I pray and hope that we become addicted to it more than we become addicted to busy-ness. I love the way God enjoys displaying His strength in our weakness. His peace in our busy-ness. His calm in our storm.

Only God

2007-11-29T00:15:00.000-06:00

Liza said tonight that she has taken more medication for pain today than she has in a long while. She needed to do that because she has been attempting more activity (and has been forced to fend off two beautiful kids by herself several times this week). She will have another massage therapy appointment tomorrow to continue trying to regain her range of motion. Her dance company and other students will be ministering in Spring this weekend and have a part in a local fundraiser at McCullough High School on Saturday. As things start to pick up I've seen both a new spark and a new fatigue in my lovely bride. Please continue to pray for her.

The Lord Jesus has been so sweet to us recently, giving us several unforgettable moments with our children. I've had several "conversations" with Izzy and Andrew both and they have been learning and experiencing many new things lately. It has truly been a precious time for us all. In fact, I think the single most prevalent and noteworthy emotion or attitude that I've had for a good time now is gratitude. I am so grateful that God is a good God who loves to rescue his children out of difficult situations. I am also so grateful for the hundreds, if not thousands, or people who have personally helped us and prayed for us in this time. I don't think I will ever get over (nor do I want to) how much they have impacted me these last few months. There are many times in the day when my inner words fail me as I think about them. Only a God like this can bring beauty out of suffering. Only Jesus can bring life out of the grave. Only our God can make someone grateful for a tragedy. Many blessings.

Picking Up Speed

2007-11-28T00:28:00.001-06:00

Since I've started this post over three times now, I think I've lost my ability to write at this late hour. I'll cut to the chase then. Liza had another massage therapy appointment today that went well but was difficult and painful. She has several muscles on the sides and back of her neck that just aren't wanting to cooperate. She also was not able to rest during the day, for the second day in a row, because of a new-home construction across the street. I don't know what's going on over there but I think today they were drilling ice cores or dynamiting a stubborn stud. I (Scot) had to work a double at the restaurant but was thankful to come home for a couple hours in between to see the kids and Liza. Tomorrow will be much the same. The kids are well. Andrew had preschool again today and loved it. Izzy is getting another ear infection we fear. This means a possible second tube surgery before the new year.

This weekend begins more of Liza's annual Christmas ministry, a job she has loved dearly the last six or so years that she's been involved. It is headed by Sonja's church and has been a tremendous production in years past. Liza and her girls have been on the team since the beginning as dancers and actors in this evangelistic Christmas show. That all begins this weekend and Liza is having to make sure her girls are ready. Her company is also involved in a fundraiser for a local school this weekend. On top of that, I have class on Friday night and all day Saturday. So, yes, we do still need your prayers. Many blessings.

More Activity...More Pain

2007-11-26T15:42:00.000-06:00

For those of you who know Liza, you know that she is tough and likes to push herself. Well, she's doing that. Physical therapy has been rough and she's been attempting more and more, which is all okay by the doctors. They have encouraged her to regain normality as soon as she is able. This afternoon, the kids and I took her to the studio so that she could spend just 30 minutes with a student. This student, Sabrina, will be filling in for Liza in a solo role during an annual Christmas ministry with which Liza's school is involved. Just a half hour walking through the dance was enough. She is now going to try to recover with a nap.

Liza made her return to church yesterday and that was also trying. We only attempted our Adult Community class for her first go round (just as I, regrettably, have been doing recently with two kids and no mommy). Being Thanksgiving weekend, it was a light crowd which helped her to take it all in. I thought she did great.

Thanks again for your continued prayers and love.

More Physical Therapy

2007-11-24T11:53:00.000-06:00

Liza is currently at another physical therapy and massage therapy appointment. It's definitely not as glamorous as one might think. She comes home in quite a bit of pain from the exercises that are trying to get the range of motion back in her neck. Just last night she was showing me the noticeable difference in her neck tendons and muscles from left to right. This process will be lengthy and trying for her. So please continue to keep her in your prayers.

On a different note, Liza and I are at least planning to have a date night tonight! That will be the first one...well...I honestly can't remember the last one. We are excited to just talk and catch up a bit. Even though it is a rainy and bitterly cold day for south Texas, the kids are I will go get Liza in a bit and then attempt to get set up for an early time for just us. We'll see how it goes. Much love and thanks.

Thankful

2007-11-22T11:35:00.000-06:00

On this Thanksgiving morning, while our turkey is in the oven and other goodies are waiting their turn, many of our thoughts have turned to you. For those who have been reading this blog and praying for Liza, and the many of you who have given on her behalf and enjoyed the benefit concert, how can we ever thank you enough. I wish I could tell each of you individually just how thankful I am like I did with my kids and wife this morning. I suppose this will have to suffice for most of you until we meet again. We love you all and are so grateful for your prayerful and generous presence in our life. Our faith is strong because we see God working through you. Many blessings and happy forkfuls.

Early Snow

2007-11-20T15:35:00.000-06:00

Yes, the first snow of the season came early to the Pollok home this year. The kids and I took Liza to a physical therapy/massage appointment this morning and then it was off to work for me, while the kids stayed with one of their favorite sitters until mommy was done. I got an early break before I was to go back for dinner and came home to a fiasco...but a funny one.

As you can see from the pictures, Andrew, and probably his buddy Jeremiah, took a large container of corn-starch baby powder and decided that it should "snow" on Thomas and his friends. I'm not sure how, but this "snow" made its way on top of his chest of drawers, in the window blinds, in the closet, on the bed, and everywhere in between. Everything we patted or touched reacted like it had been stuck in an old attic for twenty years. Poof. It was too funny and cute for us to be cross at Andrew, but he does understand that another "snow" incident is unacceptable. What else can you say? His room has never smelled so good. Have you ever tried to vacuum up 20 oz. of powder spread over 120 square feet of carpet?

Liza is in quite a bit of pain right now from the PT and is trying to sleep it off. She slept better last night than she has in a while thanks to some new meds. She has been going without for a while but the pain was not allowing her to sleep properly, which in turn leads to more discomfort. So I called our friend Shirley, the nurse practitioner, yesterday and she called in a script for us. It seems to be helping now, but we'll see how the afternoon and evening go. Blessings.

There and Back Again

2007-11-18T22:51:00.000-06:00

I arrived home again tonight a little after 6 PM. I obviously did not have access to the Internet while I was away or I would have kept you all up to date.

I thought the weekend away was extremely successful. I spoke to a group of high school students in four sessions about the concept of our awkward position as Christians in this world. Peter addresses his first epistle to a group he calls "aliens and strangers." That was the theme of the retreat. In a basic sense, I talked about suffering and tried to open up for the students a biblical concept and theology of suffering. I had a lot of fun and I think the students were impacted. Pray that God will continue to work on them.

Meanwhile, Liza was home with the kids aided by the most amazing mother-in-law on the planet. Sonja was here throughout the weekend helping Liza do almost everything. The kids were pretty rowdy throughout the weekend and especially when daddy got home, but Liza did fairly well. She was still in substantial pain throughout the weekend when I would call and she wasn't able to rest very well. But it was joyous to see her play with the kids when I got home. She had moments where we all forgot about her surgery and recovery because she was just enjoying her kids so much. She laughed and even ran across the floor chasing Izzy once. It was great to see. But of course, now she has a pretty bad headache. We're turning in early to try to catch up on our sleep. Many blessings to you all and thank you for your continued concern and prayers.

Another Weekend

2007-11-16T13:42:00.000-06:00

Well, in just about an hour Liza is actually headed back to the studio. She will teach a bit and run through a couple dances that the company is working on for Christmas. She fared well Wednesday with just a bad headache. We'll pray again today that she doesn't over do it.

I'm off for another speaking engagement this weekend. Again, another scheduled event for a friend in Austin that was on the books before Liza was sick. It's just in Austin this time and I'll be back on Sunday afternoon. We have some wonderful help lined up for over the weekend but please keep Liza and the kids in your prayers. I hate being gone at times like this but there's little we can do. I'm very excited to go and share the gospel and teach the Bible with these kids though. Their student pastor is an old friend and I'm looking forward to seeing him again soon. This is my passion. Please pray for us all over the weekend. Thanks.

Back to the Studio

2007-11-14T23:09:00.000-06:00

Liza actually went back to the studio today for several hours. Believe it or not, she actually walked through a dance just to try to get back into the swing of things. She has felt so encouraged and motivated by the benefit concert that she longs to get back to dancing. She actually did not fare too badly afterwards either. My boss offered me another night off because there were too many servers scheduled and I gladly took the kids on a mall-date so mom could rest. I jumped at the chance, even though work is a priority for us, because I've really been longing for more personal time with Izzy and Andrew. Liza is reading now in bed with a pounding headache, waiting for the meds to kick in. I think she is still feeling a tiny bit stronger every day - slow progress.

I also wanted to add this picture to the blog so you could see the many long hours of work by our small group in action. This is a picture of the silent auction area during intermission at the benefit, which was held at the beautiful Woodlands United Methodist Church. Together with our church, Faith Bible Church, and of course the wonderful Ballet School there were scores of individuals working hard on our behalf. Our small group, the greatest collection of couples in the world, organized and managed this area with tremendous success, thanks also to all of the donations, which were mostly from the Ballet School. I think each class made a basket - and they were amazing. And Sonja, Liza's mum, also worked tirelessly on the production and pretty much everything else. The concert would not have happened without her and the Ballet School, that is certain (Sonja has even been teaching all of Liza's classes!) When I first opened this picture, all I saw was love in action. Liza and I had fun trying to recognize the hundred plus people in the photo. Again, many thanks and blessings to all who attended and those who were there in spirit.

A Night Off

2007-11-13T22:00:00.000-06:00

Andrew went to preschool again today and had a huge Thanksgiving party. Liza, Izzy and my parents went to be with him. I, unfortunately, was stuck at work, deep in the weeds. He had a wonderful time and told me all about it when I got home. His school and teachers are truly outstanding and we are so blessed to have been able to get him in this year.

I was supposed to work a double today, but since one of our wonderful and regular sitters was sick, I called in between shifts and my boss gave me the night off. What a treat. I took the kids grocery shopping and then made dinner while we playing and enjoyed just being the four Polloks again. Liza was still too weary to get up and go to our small group, which met tonight. Oh, how we long to get back to them soon.

Generally speaking, Liza had a relatively good day although she was not able to take a nap. This has been one of the few days since surgery that she wasn't able to catch at least one. I've noticed that the spark the concert started in her is still there. She's laughing more and planning on returning to the studio tomorrow for a short time to walk through a dance. Can you believe that? I'm so proud of her, yet a bit worried at the same time. She'll just have to take it slow and listen to her body. Pray for that, please. I also thought you'd like to see my bride speaking in public (She was in horrendous pain at that moment and simply hates the picture). It was a landmark moment for her and one of the proudest moments I've had in my marriage. And I wasn't even there. Many blessings.

Home Sweet Home

2007-11-12T22:08:00.000-06:00

I was greeted at the door by my two beautiful kids just before 9:00 PM this evening. It is a joy to see them and my bride again. The kids and I ate a late dinner together and laughed so much that the others in the house told us to be quiet. My parents are still here and have been helping in tremendous ways during my absence. Unfortunately, they have to leave tomorrow.

My time away was very fruitful but taxing because of the circumstances. I hated to be away from my family at this time but fell in love with the students I served in southern California. They were outstanding young men and women indeed. I am still praying that our Good Lord blesses the things we discussed this weekend and the experiences that we all had. I think we all felt that He met us up on top of that mountain. Thank you all again for your prayers for me and my family while we were separated. I'm looking forward to catching up in the next few days.

More Concert Pictures

2007-11-12T02:17:00.001-06:00

Here are some more pictures of all the dancers involved and our dear friend Larry Dalton, a concert Steinway pianist, who graced us with his talented hands. Thank you to all.

Coming down

2007-11-11T15:10:00.000-06:00

It's so good to still hear the excitement and enthusiasm in Liza's voice even today. I'm still in California (speak twice more today, once tomorrow, then home). I called her briefly to check in and she sounds like the old Liza.

We have talked a little about the personal repercussions of the benefit concert. She said that her passion for dance and teaching has been renewed and she has a new drive to get back to the studio and back on the floor. That is great, but it will still be a while and she knows that. I'm so very happy that she has been given a new motivation because of the love our church and friends. I think that's part of the reason for the change I can hear over the phone.

She even feels like she was physically healed a little during the concert, especially when she got up on stage and spoke. She can remember saying a simple thank you to God, the Great Physician, and Restorer, and a thank you to all that attended and have helped our family. She is adamant about NOT ever speaking in public, so that moment was a very big deal for her. In was in that brief encounter that she began to feel better physically. Although she was quite worn out later that night and is still, she felt God directly answer the many prayers that are being offered on behalf of her healing. God is definitely good. And for continually asking Him to show His great goodness to my wife, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. Coming down off the "high" of the concert will be a new beginning of determined progress and strength for Liza. I can't wait to get home and hold her again.

Pictures Say it All...

2007-11-10T19:54:00.000-06:00

I talked to Liza this morning. She said that she didn't sleep well last night because she was still so excited. What sweet medicine that was for a husband who is away from his bride.

Here are some amazing images from the benefit concert Friday night. They are of Liza's own company, her hip-hop students, Dance Ad Deum, some students from Humble, and her friend Jenna Vance.

Beautiful Night

2007-11-10T01:25:00.000-06:00

Well, I'm writing from a cabin at the top of a mountain in Crest Line, California, at Thousand Pines Christian Camp. It's 43 degrees outside right now and getting colder. I'm here to speak at a high school student retreat, a trip on which Liza was originally scheduled to come. Of course, plans changed quickly in the last few months.

I spoke to Liza on the phone a couple of hours ago and she said immediately, "tonight was awesome." Many more people attended the benefit concert than any of us expected. What a blessing! She also said that her company was amazing. "My girls were more beautiful than ever. They just worshipped." It made my heart glad to hear the excitement in her voice, even though she said that her body was convulsing. She got home after 10:00 and she left the house a little after 6:00. Four hours is a long time for her relatively fragile state. She was in a large amount of pain and said she felt like she had Parkinson's disease because her body was literally shaking all over. Thus, our conversation was not long-winded, but the enthusiasm and encouragement in her voice was unmistakable. I'm so very thankful and glad that Liza could see how many people love her and are touched by her life and ministry. I'm sure her special choreography was moving and inspiring to all that were there. I'm looking forward to adding some pictures and possibly some video in upcoming posts.

Thank you all for your prayers for tonight, and many of you for coming and supporting my wife and family. Below is the letter that my good friend Tray read in my stead.

Dear Friends,

I’m afraid my feeble vocabulary fails me as I try to convey the amount of gratitude Liza and I, and our whole family, have for you all. Your generous support, loving prayers, and presence here tonight are a beautiful testimony to the love of Jesus Christ expressed in his body, the church. We have been overwhelmed with humility as our peers, our church family, and even our students have served us in this difficult time. For this reason, amidst all of the pain and suffering that Liza’s endured, we have come to a place of thankfulness even for the trial itself, because we have been able to experience the deep love that you all have shown. Liza still has a hard road ahead of her as she struggles through physical therapy and labors to return to her teaching position and to the dance floor. For that continued trial we again covet your prayers.

More than anything, I sincerely wish that I could be here tonight and personally verbalize my appreciation and love to your all. I want to shake your hands and hug your necks and show you how much you’ve meant to us. But this feeble letter will have to suffice for this occasion. Again, thank you. May God richly bless you for all you’ve done and are doing for my lovely wife and family. May you be deeply touched by what you experience tonight and above all, may our Good God be blessed.

With all love,
Scot Pollok and family.

May God be Blessed

2007-11-09T13:29:00.000-06:00

Liza and I just took little Izzy to the ENT for a check up on her ears and then went to get Liza a new shirt for tonight. She's very excited. (By the way, Izzy got two shots in her "bum bum" because the first round of antibiotics did not work. We'll go back for another check up in ten days. If she gets another infection after this one, then we'll likely schedule another tube surgery.)

As I (Scot) will unfortunately not be able to be at the concert tonight, I hope you all are blessed by what you experience. Again, Liza's heart is for the night to be all about worship of our Great God, because "our only hope is in Him who is Infinitely Good." I will still try to update this blog over the weekend with some pictures if possible. Many blessings to you all and a heartfelt thanks for all who were involved in making tonight possible.

Giving Thanks

2007-11-09T00:03:00.000-06:00

Liza actually went up to the Methodist Church and watched concert rehearsal for over 2 hours! Well, watched and taught, that is. She just couldn't help herself. But this evening, she was "done," in her words. That little outing took everything she had. She was extremely encouraged, though, by her girls' level of dancing and is very excited about tomorrow night. Our pianist friend, Larry Dalton, arrives just after lunch and the dancers from all the companies will be arriving in the early afternoon for more rehearsal. Our very own Tray Morgan will host the evening. Liza and I just prayed together and she mentioned that she "doesn't care at all about the fund raising, I just want people to be touched and for God to be glorified." I thought that she said it very well.

My (Scot) parents came in tonight to be with the kids over the weekend and come to the concert tomorrow. Andrew and Izzy were thrilled to see them. Here's a couple pictures of them at breakfast (notice the balanced and nutritious meal that their father made). They both went to "school" again today and are loving it. It's been my favorite time of the week to sit and debrief the day's happenings with them individually. I just keep falling in love with these two over and over again.

As I reflect on all that's gone on in the last few weeks I'm really overwhelmed with thanksgiving. I realize that I've given almost one single answer to all who have asked about Liza: "slow progress." But in reality, we are so very thankful for a innumerable number of things that God has done. And so before all the festivities of tomorrow begin I wanted to encourage you all to give thanks to God for what He's done in Liza, how He has spared her and used her to touch lives during this trial. One of our life goals is to be thankful people. When it comes to this surgery and recovery and all the words and visitors to this blog, we are extremely grateful. Thank you all. Thank you Jesus.

Physical Therapy #1

2007-11-08T00:40:00.000-06:00

Liza just told me, from the pitch blackness of our bedroom, that she was "overall, encouraged today." A doctor friend came over and shared her expertise with Liza as they gently worked on the range of motion in her neck. They took it easy, but it still affected Liza, which I guess is understandable. She also shared with Liza the simple fact that her neck, spinal cord and brain have been through a huge trauma. It takes a while to come back from something like that because the spinal fluid, the spinal cord, and all the nerves that come out of the cord are getting acquainted with more space and an increased ability to function properly. So even though right now Liza's "whole body is throbbing" and she has pins and needles in her hands and feet, she is still encouraged. We are still hoping that all of these symptoms are directly related to the healing process, which will take months. Please continue to pray that Liza will be able to sleep deeply, solidly, peacefully, and undisturbed by noises, worries, pain, numbness, etc., so that she can be as involved and blessed by the next few days as possible. Thank you all.

New pain

2007-11-07T15:05:00.000-06:00

Since our good report on Monday, I think Liza has attempted to do too much. She immediately started picking up the kids, which they LOVED, but she has paid the price lately. She has also developed some nerve pain and tingling in her extremities, which is very discouraging for her. She has not had anything like this since the surgery, until yesterday that is. So she has been struggling with that reality for about 24 hours now. It kept her up last night - not the pain, but the thought that the surgery did not relieve the symptoms that she struggled with before. I, for one, and Dr. C, for another, are not convinced that these new sensations have any connection or relevance to the success of the surgery. It is still too early to tell; the nerves are still trying to heal.

This morning was also difficult. I had to go into work again and Liza was with the two kids by herself for the first time. She prepared well and was able to occupy them and have a lot of fun by not doing too much physically. They both sat on her lap and they read books for over a hour. Then Liza's mum took Izzy to run some errands and Liza got some one-on-one time with her little man. They played trains of course, and I think Andrew ate it up. But she overdid it again and is now trying to rest. We were both awakened at 6 AM this morning as cement truck after cement truck barrelled up on street and poured a new slab directly across from us. Yeah, I don't even know what to say about that. Who wants any kind of slab at 6 AM, honestly. I wouldn't take a slab of chocolate at that hour. And I really love chocolate.

We are also busily preparing for the benefit concert this Friday night. It will be at The Woodlands United Methodist Church at 7:30 in the main sanctuary. I want you all to know that it is entirely a worship concert. We have several special guests that have graciously agreed to come and be a part, including another professional dance company and a concert pianist, but the night really highlights Liza's worshipful and masterful choreography with her own professional ballet and modern company, Ballet Excelsior of Houston. You can purchase tickets at the church and there will also be other ways to interact and help out. Every dime of the proceeds will go directly towards Liza's medical bills, so let me, as Liza's husband, be the very first to thank you all for your hard work toward this event and your presence there. There have already been over 400 tickets sold by our estimation and we are hoping for more. Come and enjoy professional level artists worship our God. It's going to be an amazing night. Again, thank you for your prayers, comments here on the blog and well wishes. Liza checks this multiple times a day and is extremely encouraged by all that you are doing for us. Blessings.

Now that you're here

2007-11-06T00:48:00.001-06:00

I can easily say that I never imagined that a simple website like this would bring so many people together. I was still for a moment one day before the surgery and thought that a site like this may be a good way of informing our small circle of friends and family of current news on Liza. I really never thought it would be anything more than that. I think I was wrong. From the comments on the site and personal interactions I've had with readers, it would seem there are maybe hundreds of people reading this little thing - that kinda makes my hands tremble.

So I thought since you're here and reading, that I'd share something that doesn't have to do directly with Liza's brain surgery. If you have found yourself on this site for any reason, let me say first that I'm glad you're here. If you happen to peruse the posts written throughout this volatile time in our lives, I pray and hope that you see a peace and trust in our feeble words. This peace in the midst of incredible uncertainty is not a kind of sheepish denial or nihilist "whatever" that attaches itself to those who don't care. Neither is it an ignorant or simply optimistic view of things. From the beginning, and with her own mouth, Liza said that if she didn't make it through this that she was okay with that. But she could make that statement, and I could heartily agree with her, even as her husband, only because of our faith in Jesus Christ the Son of God. It is only His life, death, resurrection and real presence with us that makes this kind of peace possible. Whether this breath is our last or not, we can take it knowing full well that it is but a shadow of what lies waiting for us as believers in Jesus in the presence of God the Father. This relationship and hope is the glue that holds all the words of this site together. Without that, at best this would be a site filled with whimpering, self-pity, and pitiful attempts at recognition. But I hope you can see that it has become much more than that. Through the faith, courage, and perseverance of my lovely bride (who actually has suffered but a fraction of what many thousand others suffer) the witness and history of this site has become something beautiful.

Now for what it's worth, I'm really a geek. I'm a full time graduate student in the field of Christian theology. I've read all the books required of me thus far (which are many), I've studied the original biblical languages for years (and fallen in love with them), I've read the Biblical authors themselves and countless others who have written about them, I've read the other world philosophies, I've studied cultures, I've traveled widely for a guy my age, and I've taught and meditated on these things for a long time. All that to say, for whatever it's worth,...I believe it. I wholeheartedly buy into the gospel of Jesus Christ expressed in both the Old and New Testament. I have based my entire life on it.

But don't just take a geek's word for it. Believe it yourself. Communicate with the God of the universe right now - He is near to you. The truth is, you've got a problem that only He can solve. The failures that you've committed, no matter how big, small, numerous or few, will forbid you any option other than separation from God. And that is a problem that only God can solve, because it is a God-sized problem. And since it is a problem only you should solve, since you are the one who has failed (and every other human that has ever lived), God became a human to solve the problem. Jesus of Nazareth's historical death and resurrection from the grave secured for all time access to God the Father for all who put their trust in Him, His life and His work. That's good news if there ever was good news. So if you're here at this site wondering why you've even read this far, maybe it is time for you to think seriously about yourself, about God, and about the differences between the two. Only God can rescue you from yourself, and the best news of all is...He is willing. He is love. He expresses that love just like you and I breathe in and out. Let Him love you to the fullest by rescuing you from yourself. All it takes is faith in Jesus. Thanks for reading.

All Good News, except...

2007-11-05T19:03:00.000-06:00

We heard almost entirely good news today. As far as Liza is concerned, Dr. Comair and Shirley (pictured with their beautiful patient) were very encouraging and impressed with her progress. Here are some details: She has been ordered to start physical therapy, which is the first mention we've ever heard of PT in this whole process. That means she has to begin forcing her neck to regain its range of motion. That will prove painful, so they gave her a different muscle relaxant that should help. She also had a worrisome nodule or lump on the left side of her neck. It was painful and sore to the touch. Dr. C said that it was a lymph node that usually swells up after surgery, nothing to worry about. He also said that future natural childbirth is still an option and should be much easier because the "problem has been fixed." The pain and tightness, mixed with frequent spasms, in her left side is the only part of the equation that Dr. C is not completely sure about. He feels it could be just a result of her "beautiful muscles" trying to heal themselves and the nerves beginning to work properly, but he isn't sure. He went into more detail about the difficulty he had with Liza's very muscular neck. He had to cut quite deeply through her "beautiful muscles" and then suture them on the midline. This causes the muscles to revolt and get all fired up, causing a lot of stiffness, soreness, and some spasms as they try to heal and return to normal working order.

Another good bit of news is...Liza can now pick up the kids! She did it immediately when she got home. They were both very happy and her new ability did not go unnoticed. But she overdid it a bit and is now paying the price, sitting on the chair in the living room as her entire body pulses and throbs.

The only bit of bad news we had today concerns our kids. We returned from Liza's appointment only to snatch our kids from our lovely babysitter Emily to rush to their doctor's appointment. As it turns out Andrew has developed congestion in his lungs and has been put on antibiotics and breathing treatments. We did one tonight already. And, little Izzy has yet another ear infection. In January of this year she had tubes put in after 13 consecutive infections. Currently, her right ear tube is in the process of falling out and she has developed an infection already. Bad news. So she is on antibiotics too and we are going to schedule a follow-up appointment with her ENT and revisit our options so that we don't go through Izzy's little "hell" all over again.

Overall it was a positive day with positive news for Liza. The kids are doing well but we feel a little set back. I'd better go now, I can hear Izzy whining for "mommy" in the next room. I added a picture of her getting into mommy's makeup today before our appointment. What fun little girls are. Thanks for your prayers and thoughts.

Rough Day

2007-11-04T21:20:00.000-06:00

In her own words, Liza "did too much today." She did sleep well last night and got another 3+ hours while we were at church (which was interesting since we were unaware of the time change). But after that, she spent a little too much time outside with the kids. Two new houses are going up just across the street and it's simply too tempting for our children. So she walked across the street to just keep an eye on them. That proved to be a little too much. Since then she's been just trying to be still. Her head and neck have been aching and she's very tired. We spent our anniversary dinner with Chinese take-out at our dining room table with kids on either side of us. It wasn't as magical as we'd hoped. The spicy chicken was very good though.

Tomorrow we go to see Dr. Comair and Shirley again for another post-op visit. We are hoping to get the go-ahead on picking up the children and that the graft/seal in the neck incision is good-to-go. We are also hoping for further and more general confidence and reassuring that everything Liza is experiencing is normal or better than normal. Every time we come away from these visits we are encouraged, so we're praying for more of the same. The ride to and from is also pretty rough for Liz, please keep that in your prayers if you think about it. We will be leaving about noon. I'll post again when we get back. Much love till then.

The Day I Married Liza

2007-11-04T01:35:00.000-05:00

Seven years ago today was our wedding day. I actually remember it quite vividly. It rained the day before and the morning of and the parking lot of the church was partially under water. I remember the doors opening in the back of the church and the vision that Liza was on that day. I honestly think I almost had cardiac arrest. With the 1000 plus people in attendance, it was an incredible day being surrounded by our dear friends and family. The seven years since that day have flown by, but have been adventurous. We have ministered the gospel together, traveled a bit of the world (the pic is from a trip to Italy many years ago), we've almost lost two brothers, adopted a son, gave birth to a daughter, and began school again. We still laugh and giggle and wrestle like we did when we were dating (although a bit less) except our relationship has grown much deeper and more sure. My wife is a remarkable individual, which many of you reading this know first hand. If you don't, I hope you have the opportunity to get to know her. She is the best mother and wife I know and is also one of the most talented artists I've ever seen. My love, admiration, trust, and devotion to Liza is constantly growing, sometimes in unexpected situations...like brain surgery. Of course we've also gone through that together. Actually we still are, I guess. But I am still looking forward to many more adventures with my gorgeous partner.

Liza will stay home again today from church while I take the kids. That is getting very old so we are looking forward to her joining us again as soon as she feels able. She was nervous about being able to sleep tonight because she slept so poorly last night. We'll see how that goes. Izzy just woke up crying (2:00 AM) and I rocked her back to sleep. I don't often get to do that so I quite like holding my little girl and snuggling. I just wish she'd pick a better hour.

Izzy's Birthday

2007-11-03T14:28:00.000-05:00

Even though Liza is not feeling too hot today because she slept very poorly last night, we threw a small family birthday party for our youngest daughter, Isabel Grace Ingrid. Of course we had to throw a party for our widdle princess! All the family pitched in and got her really one present - her own little kitchen and nursery, house...thing. You can see the pictures. It came with a fabric tent, a stove, sink, changing table and other things like a cheap set of pots and pans. She loves to change diapers and cook and feed babies so we were very excited to give it to her. Liza and I were up to almost midnight putting it all together. That may explain the bad night of sleep. Anyway, Jacob and Amy, Dylan and Zander, Sonja and us four Polloks were here for a butterfly cake and Pizza Hut (what a combination!). She had such a wonderful time. Much more excited about visitors and especially baby Zander, she jumped and smiled and sang and it was a joy to watch. Now we'll attempt a nap time when both kids are hopped up on cake icing so that Liza can get some better sleep. Enjoy the pictures (especially you, Janine).

Always good to sleep in

2007-11-02T13:28:00.001-05:00

This morning was a good morning. I didn't have to work, the kids didn't have preschool, and we had no visitors - so it was just a normal Pollok morning. I got up after a good night's sleep and made breakfast and then the kids and I went outside and ran some errands (in our pajamas) while mommy got some more sleep. The more sleep Liza gets, the better she feels. So far, then, today has been a great day. We're about to attempt nap time, so I'm sure the "great" is about to be replaced with something a little less glamorous.

Sympathy pains...?

2007-11-01T23:18:00.000-05:00

I doubt it, but I've had the worst headache and neckache now for about 24 hours. Liza said tonight that her headache was possibly the worst since the surgery. Sheeesh. We're going to bed. We're still hopeful and trusting, but we're going to bed.

First Outing Fallout

2007-11-01T00:32:00.000-05:00

Liza and I got back from the studio a little after 4 and before 5 she was in bed, wasted. Just a little half hour trip took everything she had. While it was great for her to see and hug some of her older girls, it was also discouraging, as she didn't expect to be so weak. She slept for two solid hours and then tried to coddle the sick kids the rest of the night. They both are struggling to understand why mommy can't pick them up. It's heartbreaking for Liza to have to deny them. Oh - nobody goes out to eat on Halloween night apparently.

Slight Fever and First Outing

2007-10-31T15:38:00.000-05:00

Probably because both kids are dealing with illnesses, Liza came down with a slight fever yesterday afternoon. At least we are praying that there is no other cause for it. There is no indication that it has anything to do with her surgery. It is still worrisome though, so please pray that her fever, which she still has a bit of, will go away. She actually had two very bad "spells" yesterday where she almost blacked out. She got up from bed two different times and within a few seconds caught herself on the wall as "everything went black." In our consultations, we think it was just a side effect of fatigue and the slight fever. We are keeping a close eye on it though.

Andrew and Izzy are still trying to get over their respective crud, although they may be dealing with the same thing now because they "share" so many of their things. We are also gearing up for Izzy's second birthday party on Saturday. We planned small for Liza's sake but the whole family pitched in for something very cool for our little girl. Look for pictures this weekend.

I also just dropped Liza off at the studio! Can you believe it? She did not go to teach, of course, she just wanted to see a few of her students and watch rehearsal for about a half hour. I am about to go fetch her again, though I am worried that it will backfire on her tonight. She hasn't been out except to go to the doctor visits since the surgery. I'm glad she felt up to it but am worried that she'll feel poorly afterwards. I'm on break from a double at work right now, so I'll go back for Halloween night at a fine dining restaurant - can there be anything more fun than that?

The Latest Fashion

2007-10-29T19:23:00.000-05:00

As you can see Liza's hair is growing back quickly but not quick enough for her. The incision site looks really good to me, but still gives her the willies. She slept in today till almost noon which really set her up for a better-than-average day. She actually said that she only had a couple of small headaches today and that they didn't last long. The nerve pain was all she struggled with. Now that Izzy's getting over her sickness, Andrew has a virus. I took him to see our wonderful doctor this afternoon and found out he has Adeno virus. His teacher and other classmates at preschool have also had it. He's not tremendously bad, we can just tell that he's not his normal cheerful self. He's got irritated eyes, congestion, cough, light fever, and the squirts. Good times.

I (Scot) have been scheduled to work a double tomorrow and Wednesday, so please pray that we have adequate help with the kiddos. Here they are having a picnic on the hood of my car. We are in new territory here, since I've been off from work for almost three full weeks now. I started back this weekend and it went very smoothly with regular sitters and Liza's mum. For the next two days, I'm sure we will be blessed with the same loving help we've been receiving. Again, many blessings to you all and thank you for your service, thoughts, comments, and prayers.

Here comes the Headache

2007-10-28T21:25:00.000-05:00

Liza has labeled today the day of the headache. Thus far her pain has been more pressure and nerve pain, but today a plain ol' headache has camped out. She wasn't able to sleep well last night for the pain and has struggled to rest enough today although she had a few opportunities. The evening has been rather rambunctious because of the kids. Andrew has developed a nasty cough and a fever so I'll be taking him to talk to the doctor in the morning. Izzy is showing signs of feeling better, she's been getting over croup, but she's been whining incessantly. We think both of them are struggling with the change of lifestyle and especially the change in mommy. I think they are very ready for some normality, but unfortunately they will have to wait a bit longer.

I've started back to work this weekend and will work just two days this coming week. That has put some pressure on those who have offered to help us with the kids and they have responded in beautiful ways. Our church, family and friends have loved us and served us in Biblical proportions. We are still here and struggling through. Thanks for your prayers.

From the Bed to the Chair

2007-10-27T00:29:00.001-05:00

Liza said that today was rough. The pain on the left side of her neck and head is quite difficult to describe. She said it feels like nerve damage. Just left along, the sensation is not bad although the headache is ever present. But just the lightest touch or stroke of the hair sends shooting pain over the front of her head. It's difficult for me to imagine just how strange and uncomfortable that is.

She spent most of the day between the bed and the chair in the living room, which is just what I want her to do. Today she obliged. The kids are starting to show signs of confusion at Mommy's new limitations and maybe a bit of rebellion or acting out. We're not freaking out yet and we've got amazing help when we need it. We think normality is coming...maybe not as soon as Liza would like, but it is coming. (The pic is our kids with my brother Travis.)

An Old Puritan Prayer

2007-10-26T01:30:00.001-05:00

I found this early this morning and thought I would share it.

Thou incomprehensible but prayer-hearingGod, known but beyond knowledge, revealed but unrevealed, my wants and welfare draw me to Thee, for Thou hast never said, 'Seek ye Me in vain.' To Thee I come in my difficulties, necessities, distresses. Possess me with Thyself, with a spirit of grace and supplication, with a prayerful attitude of mind, with access into warmth of fellowship, so that in the ordinary concerns of life my thoughts and desires may rise to Thee, and in habitual devotion I may find a resource that will soothe my sorrow, sanctify my successes and qualify me in all ways for dealing with my fellow men. I bless Thee that Thou hast made me capable of knowing Thee, the Author of all being, of resembling Thee, the Perfection of all excellency, of enjoying Thee, the Source of all happiness. Oh, God, attend me in every part of my arduous and trying pilgrimage. I need the same counsel, defense, comfort I found at my beginning. Let my religion be more obvious to my conscience, more perceptible to those around. While Jesus is representing me in heaven, may I reflect Him on earth. While He pleads my cause, may I show forth His praise. Continue the gentleness of Thy goodness towards me. And, whether I wake or sleep, let Thy presence go with me, Thy blessing attend me. Thou hast led me on, and I have found Thy promises true. I have been sorrowful, but Thou hast been my help, fearful, but Thou hast delivered me, despairing, but Thou hast lifted me up. Thy vows are ever upon me, and I praise thee, oh, God.

The Trouble with Patience

2007-10-25T23:42:00.000-05:00

Liza had a relatively good day. I asked her this afternoon what her pain level was, and she said a 4 (out of 10). That's pretty good..."unless you're the one with the 4," a friend told me today. So again, she is making slow progress. Although she is still a bit unnerved by the incision, I think the scar on her neck is almost invisible. Over time I doubt if anyone will be able to tell that it is there. Liza may not even be able to feel it by touch, the incision is so tight. But again, she doesn't like it when I say that. I probably wouldn't either if it were my head.

The trouble with a bit of relief from pain is that you think you can do more. Well, after washing a few dishes or bending over to pick up toys, the trouble catches up. Liza's pain level is communicating to her through her level of activity. And being the hard-working, active, mom and wife that she is, it has been difficult to slow...down.... It's only been two weeks and one day since the operation, but it feels much longer. She still has a long way to go to full recovery, but we are confident, yet hopeful, that she will get there. We have another doctor's visit next week Friday and a follow-up MRI to check the progress of the surgery site about a month out.

In the meantime, keep praying for Liza as you think of her and I'll keep filling you in on her progress. You may also think and pray for my little Izzy. I had to take her to the doctor this morning. She had croup with a dry wheezy cough and the sniffles. We're giving her lots of fluids, cranking up the humidity in her room, and treating symptoms with lots of love and Dimetapp. Andrew is awesome and loving school and riding his bike. I'm still here too. Thanks again for all your thoughts and prayers. You are treasures to us.

Puffy Head

2007-10-24T17:42:00.000-05:00

No, I'm not calling names. Liza says that today she felt like her head was "puffy." Although that sounds somewhat serious, we can't see any serious swelling or other significant signs of something shocking...sweet! But seriously, we spoke to Shirley on the phone and she didn't seem worried about the "puffy" head. She just insisted that Liza not pick up the kids, which has been difficult for her. A fringe benefit for me has been snuggling much more with Izzy. I think she needs so much in one day and I'm getting the spill-over. Liza joined the three of us outside in the lovely, and sometimes chilly, weather for a lunch picnic. She tried unsuccessfully to get a good nap but we're set up now for a relatively uneventful evening...we hope. Here's a pic of Liza and the kids today. Please pray that the puffiness, swelling, and pain, which is almost exclusively still on her left side, will go away. Many blessings.

Best Friends

2007-10-23T21:45:00.000-05:00

Tonight has traditionally been Liza and my small group night. We attend Faith Bible Church, formerly Faith Community Church, almost entirely because we were welcomed and loved by a small group of newly married couples. Out of that group came the small group we've been a part of now for a few years. They have quickly become our best friends, and their response to Liza's illness has been nothing short of extraordinary. They have invented ways to show their love for us. Although we haven't been to our Tuesday night time for some time now, I took Izzy and some freshly baked cookies over tonight to say how much we love them and how much we have missed our time together. This nucleus of couples, all with children about the same age, has meant the world to us. They have made us more like Christ and allowed us to grow and change in ways we never would have without them. I was just reflecting on all of this tonight. Liza and I can't wait to get back with them.

Comfort and Affliction

2007-10-23T15:42:00.000-05:00

I don't believe that there is any feeling or experience better than opening up the Scriptures and realizing that God is speaking directly to you. He spoke this morning. I've been reading the Psalms but also started 2 Corinthians this morning. The first part of chapter 1 seems extremely relevant to us right now.

"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction so that we will be able to comfort those who are in any affliction with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. For just as the suffering of Christ are ours in abundance, so also our comfort is abundant through Christ... Indeed we (Paul and Timothy) had the sentence of death within ourselves so that we would not trust in ourselves, but in God who raises the dead; who delivered us from so great a death, and will deliver us, He on whom we have set our hope."

We have truly been comforted by all of you, who obviously have been comforted by God in your own struggles. We hope to comfort others as we struggle through this affliction ourselves, and have been blessed to do so already in some small ways. God loves to have us be utterly dependent upon Him, seeking hope from no other source but Him. He alone deserves to be the object of our hope.

Liza is currently resting. Although she did not sleep well last night, today she has been "unable to stay awake." That's a great thing and the kids and I will try to maintain and environment conducive to more sleep as best we can. She's also been trying to space out her meds and even wean herself off them because of some of the negative side effects that have been showing up. This of course does not mute the pain as much as it did last week, so she's been in a fragile way pain-wise. However, last night it was just the four Polloks and it was actually quite good. I think the kids enjoyed just being us again. Liza watched a lot from her chair as we wrestled and played hide-n-seek. She smiled a bit in between the grimaces. Again, I think we're seeing slow progress, slow...painful...progress. Thanks for all your prayers and thoughts.

Two steps forward, one step back

2007-10-22T18:24:00.001-05:00

That is how Liza has described the last few days. She's said it several times. Today has been a "one step back" day. She's had significant pain in her neck and head and has been unable to rest properly. Thus far she's been superb in her resolve and patience, but I can tell that she is getting really really tired of feeling so poorly. Even though it hasn't been that long since the surgery, the painful and sleepless hours add up very quickly. Please continue to pray for her pain and her stamina. Some more of your wonderfully encouraging comments wouldn't hurt either. Many blessings.

Home Makeover connection

2007-10-21T21:59:00.000-05:00

First of all, Liza had a relatively good day. She stayed home from church this morning to sleep but found it difficult until just before we all got home. Everyone did take a good nap though and then the kids and my family played outside for a while. Liza did catch a good nap and is going to bed for the night right now. Her pain has been manageable today and she was able to enjoy the kids and her side of the family that visited tonight. Baby Zander, Liza's new nephew, has a lovely way of brightening her day. Her hair is growing rapidly and the incision on the back of her head is looking much better, in my opinion. The strangest thing lately is a shooting pain that comes when she walks on her heels, we postulate it sends a shock pressure up her legs and into her spine. It's not too bad though - she just walks on the balls of her feet, which she is very used to doing - demi-point. Overall I would say that Liza is encouraged and making slow (painful) progress.

Oddly enough, tonight as we gathered with the Staines family to celebrate Jacob's birthday, we turn on one of our favorite shows, Extreme Makeover Home Edition, and what do we see? The family that was getting the makeover, the Carter's, was struggling through their own Arnold-Chiari malformations. I didn't watch it all, but they had three daughters and I believe two of them, if not all three, had already gone through surgeries, and had more to go. They live in Wyoming so don't have access to the superb medical facilities that we have in Houston, but their story was touching, sobering, and way too close to home. The pictures they showed of scars and hospital beds left us all a little speechless as we watched. We think it's good that more people are becoming aware of this condition, which means more doctors and more hospitals will come up to speed on properly treating it.

So, mom Pollok is back at home now, which leaves just us four. While we really hated to see her go (she was absolutely brilliant these past two weeks), we are a bit excited to at least try out normal life around here. But I have to admit we've already made some calls for pinch hitters in case we need to tap out. The help and support that our friends and church family have shown us in this time has been beyond what I ever dreamed. It is a truly beautiful thing to see it all happen (and humbling on the receiving end).

We also have some great news about the benefit concert for Liza - November 9 at The Woodlands United Methodist Church. Our new and great friend Larry Dalton, a world renown concert pianist, will be coming to perform at the concert. He is a wonderful man and we're so happy that his schedule allowed him time to join us. A dance company that Liza used to be a part of, Dance Ad Deum, is also trying to work their schedule out to be there, and things might be looking better. But whatever happens, Liza's professional company, Ballet Excelsior, will be there performing some brand-new choreography that Liza put together and created before the operation. All who attend will be amazed at the talent of my gorgeous wife and the dancers she has assembled in her company. Although I will unfortunately be out of town, Liza hopes to come and see many of you there (I will be speaking in California, a commitment I made long before this whole thing happened).

Again, many blessings and many thanks for all you have done and are doing for my lovely wife and my family (and me). We love you.

Pollok family day

2007-10-20T09:08:00.000-05:00

Early this morning, as I was leaving for a half-day of school, Liza said last night was "better," but she still was disturbed by significant pain in her head and neck, which has continued throughout the day. We also think the kids are getting a bit sick, but as of now it's probably just minor coughs and sniffles.

My mom, Lanelle, and my brother Travis, and his fiance Brittany, are all with the kids today. They did some fun things to take the pressure off of mom. She was able to get a little sleep and rest. I took off of school early and we had a fun afternoon and evening playing outside, working on some projects, and telling stories. It was a simple and fun Pollok day (we missed my father as he is at home receiving radiation). Although Liza will stay at home, myself and the kids are looking forward to seeing our church family tomorrow. Pray for us also as my mom, and the biggest and most consistent help we've had for the last two weeks, leaves tomorrow to return to work.

Post-Op Doctor's Visit

2007-10-19T13:51:00.000-05:00

We were a bit late, but we'll blame it on traffic. We were in to see Dr. Comair and Shirley almost immediately. Liza's vitals were perfect (97.7 and 118/80). The good doctor began by asking how everything was and how she was feeling. He is very caring and a good listener. We always get the feeling that he actually is attentive to what we say and isn't simply waiting for our mouths to stop moving so he can move his. He then went into much more detail about the surgery he performed on Liza ten days ago. He brought in a model of the spine and showed us exactly what he did.

There is usually a space for the spinal cord twice as bit as the actual cord itself in the cervical spine. Liza had only enough space for the spinal cord itself, with no space remaining. He C1 spine was also extremely close to the base of the skull, but not fused to it (some are). This gave him little room to work and was causing most of Liza's problems. He removed about 1/2 an inch of the posterior side of C1. Then he used this space and the tissue transplant from her leg to form an increased area of space for spinal fluid, what he called a 'cistern.' This story is all recognizable so far from what he told us before surgery.

What he did not tell us before surgery helped us understand why Liza is experiencing some of the feelings she is having. When the spinal cord and the major nerve that serves the front of the face and cheek area are pinched, or simply crowded, the impulses that are trying to get to the brain to communicate touch, heat, pain, etc., aren't transferred properly. The result is that the impulses get translated into nerve pain, tingling, and numbness. This is a normal reaction to crowded or pinched nerves, of course, but the explanation was new to us. Since she is still a bit swollen in her neck muscles and tissues, this crowding could still be occurring to a minor degree. If it is not, it will still take several weeks or months for the nerves to readjust and begin to send and accept the proper signals once more. This too is a normal healing process.

After explaining all of this and answering some of our questions, he began to inspect the incisions and remove the stitches and steri-strips. The nine sutures on her neck came out without even a whisper and they both thought the site looked clean and good (see the picture of her on the phone when we arrived home). The incision on her leg is almost unnoticeable and got a new set of steri-strips just to minimize scarring.

The funniest part of the visit was watching Dr. Comair, a world renown surgeon, trying to get latex gloves on with slightly wet hands. He went through three or four pair before giving up and sending out for powdered gloves. It was hilarious. Oh, when I say 'world renown,' I really mean it apparently. He was gone this past weekend because he flew to ZURICH, Switzerland, to perform neurosurgery on a patient there. You know, just a quick weekend trip.

We ruffled some feathers on the cell phone during the ride home and finally got some more meds as soon as we got back into The Woodlands. We picked them up from a sweet little pharmacist who said to Liza in a light-hearted tone, "so you're the one causing all the trouble, huh." Yep. Then I showed her the back of Liza's head. I wish you could have seen her face. "Now I understand," was all she said. All three of us thought it was quite funny.

So our morning has been one of the roughest yet. Actually, according to Liza, it has been the most painful of this whole process, literally (imagine Liza's face in Izzy's face in this pic, minus the Cheeto remnants). After the bumpy road to and from the hospital, with no meds, and a few more major bumps after we arrived home, we are very glad that things are starting to settle down today. She is currently in bed trying to rest. She just finished sipping on a home-made smoothie with trembling hands.

Again, thanks for your prayers and thoughts. Your constant presence is felt in our home. It is a much warmer place because of you all. Blessings.

Empty bottles and ice cream

2007-10-18T22:56:00.000-05:00

Today was another rough day of progression. Liza is running out of pain meds and we all tried, unsuccessfully, to contact the doctor and pharmacy to get more...many times. But we think we can make it through the night. We go to see Dr. Comair early tomorrow morning so we'll be able to get more if he wants us to have them.

Liza had another strong bout of nausea tonight that was stayed by a Whataburger shake. (I hear they're also good for sealing tires.) But seriously, we are noticing progress in Liza's movement and ability, but that progress is yet a bit overshadowed by nagging pain (the colorful remnants of nine attempts at an IV are not painful, however). Frequent naps seem to really help as Liza feels the best when she first wakes up. She is still having some tingling and nerve pain on her left side and we are PRAYING that this is not the same effect that led us to surgery in the first place. According to the doctors last week, it is due to the swelling that will probably remain for a another week or so. We'll confirm that tomorrow as a matter of urgency.

Oh, my Hebrew test went very well...thank you for your prayers. I make some goofy mistakes but am extremely thankful with the outcome, although I don't know exactly what that is yet. Many blessings and a million thanks.

Continued Progress

2007-10-17T21:41:00.000-05:00

Somebody out there has been praying for Liza...we can tell. This evening has been, well...pretty great. Liza got to take another shower, which makes some of you think "so what," but is a feat in and of itself. We changed the dressing on her head again, but left the airtight dressing alone on her leg. She came outside a bit today and watched the kids play, see the picture. We also have a post-op appointment scheduled for Friday morning at 8:45 with Dr. Comair. We are anxious to see him again and 'officially' chart Liza's progress and get the opportunity to ask questions about the pain and other sensations she's feeling on her left side. So far we've been chalking it up to swelling in the brain and neck area, which Dr. Tornado suggested was the cause the day we checked out of the hospital. We were also able to help a new friend of ours, who also has a Chiari malformation. Hopefully she will be able to see Dr. Comair for a consult soon. Liza's mum went back to teaching this week and is still working with all the volunteers that are preparing for the benefit concert for Liza, November 9. My mother is still here and working like a slave. The kids adore her and I think she's loving it too, despite all the work. That's about it, except for my large Hebrew exam tomorrow night. Keep praying for Liza please (and only after that, the Hebrew exam...). Blessings.

From up to down

2007-10-17T13:40:00.001-05:00

Last night was a weird night. At first Liza felt really great. She even spaced out her meds with a few hours in between where she felt pretty good. However, the distance caught up with her and the pain soared back up to near the top of the scale. She also felt good enough to have another shower last night - this time with no assistance, we changed her dressing again, and she moved around a bit more. All good signs of progress and improvement. But these good signs also contributed to the valley she found herself in early this morning. So...today, we are minimizing activity and keeping up with the meds. She just fought off a bout of terrible nausea and is currently patting Izzy's back for nap - "pat pat," is what Izzy asked for. Liza obliged. Other than that we're doing relatively well. Andrew has been wanting to ride his bike non-stop, which is a skill he mastered with training wheels while we were at the hospital last week. His preschool teacher also paid us a visit this morning to meet Liza and see Andrew's room - he was very excited. He'll go back for his second day tomorrow.

So please continue to pray for Liza's pain and nausea (she has a history of stomach ulcers and sensitivity, which make consistent narcotics a "tough pill to swallow"). Thanks again for all of your thoughts, prayers, and comments. She is so encouraged by your constant presence on her behalf.

"Better" night

2007-10-16T13:46:00.000-05:00

Officially, that means straight from Liza's mouth, "last night was better than the night before." She was still up several times when the pain signaled it was time to take more meds. This morning was bitter sweet for Liza as she sent her son off to preschool but couldn't escort him personally. I was up early, thanks to a no-doubt sticky little finger that forwarded the hour on my alarm clock, cooking breakfast and packing lunch while Liza and the kids slept in a bit. We got Andrew dressed and then I took him off to school. He was bouncing with excitement and loved every second of his experience. (Here's a family picture.) He'll go again on Thursday and can't wait. Liza took another extended sleep and is currently trying to squeeze every ounce of information out of Andrew before we all (hopefully) lay down for a nap.

To Our Australian Family

2007-10-15T23:52:00.001-05:00

Starting this blog was really a random thought on a random day. I never foresaw the blessing it could be to those who live down the street from us and to all of you thousands of miles away. We are so thankful that this odd little site could help you to feel like you are a part of this adventure. It also brought us to you as we read your comments, thoughts, well wishes, and prayers. We are so thankful to all of you, even if you haven't commented. It has done Liza so much good to hear from Josh and Kerry, Janine and Rory, Pelia and Meg, Jared and many others. Because you are our family, it has been a tremendous blessing for us to have you 'in on the action' and 'involved' in our daily and hourly struggles. To have you pray for us is overwhelming (God has no trouble with the time change). So we just wanted to write a special note to all of you to say that we love you, thank you, and we hope to hear more from you and see you all soon. Many thanks and blessings.

Rough day

2007-10-15T23:38:00.000-05:00

As I'm writing this Liza is trying to relax and go to sleep. About an hour ago she was in immense pain and in her own words "every part of my body hurts." She was a bit nauseous and couldn't even 'stomach' the thought of more pills. She took them anyway, with a chaser of soggy Cheerios, and hopefully the pain is subsiding. She did get two fairly good naps today and managed to sleep in, so she is resting. However, the quality of sleep and rest is sub-par. Please continue to pray. I expected this to be the hardest part. The monsoon rain outside seemed to mirror the weather in our home. Liza is very strong, and while her strength is showing, it takes quite a bit to handle what she has to endure. And I think she's doing quite well.

On another note, Andrew, our oldest, will start school tomorrow! We've been trying to get into a stellar program here in The Woodlands and a spot opened up last week. We jumped on it and I will be taking him at 9:00 in the morning. Liza is very sad that she can't take him there but we're all very excited for Andrew. He is excited too.

It's faith, not rocket science or...

2007-10-14T23:50:00.000-05:00

Liza and I were just trying to relax in bed and were looking through some of the posts that she hasn't been able to read. I looked specifically at the one entitled "Some Specific Prayer Requests" that posted the day before the surgery. I want you to know that each and every one of those requests were answered. She even was able to get meds before going to the OR (the Anaesthesiologist even showed me the syringe in his pocket) but we elected not to have them. That is a tremendous testimony to God's faithfulness and your fervent prayers.

Several people have commented on this blog site about faith. Those words have been tremendously encouraging to Liza and I both. While neither of us believe we are people of great faith, we believe strongly that God doesn't ask us to have faith in something that He has spoken directly about. So during this adventure, we have lent heavily on those passages of Scripture which reveal God's faithfulness, trustworthiness, and loyalty. He is a God who speaks and promises and keeps promises. While He never promises us perfect safety or freedom from disease, He does promise to hear us, to never leave us, and to never be unaware of the intricacies of our struggles (among many others). It has been these promises that have sustained us in this time. So, thank you for your wildly encouraging comments, and I pray that you have been encouraged by what God has done in our lives. What an adventure.

The end of the first day

2007-10-14T20:12:00.001-05:00

It's been a wild one - mainly with the kids. I don't think they know how to react or respond to a slightly different mommy and a cranky daddy. They've done well but tonight was sheer madness.

Liza's pain is under control for the most part. Keep praying for her left side. We'll see if she can get comfortable tonight. We did have a successful run at a nap on her bed so we'll see if we can repeat that. Below are some more crazy pictures. One is the typical Liza-reaction to being stuck with a needle over and over. These are the many attempts they made for a second line while she was under in the OR. The other is obviously the incision on her neck close up. Nine clean and tight stitches with one knot at either end. Then there is Liza with her mum, Sonja. Lastly, the Staines family from the last night in the hospital.

I was asked to pass on many thanks for all of your thoughts and prayers by my mom and dad, Lanelle and Patrick Pollok. I'm sure Liza's mum, Sonja, and her dad, Garry, and all the rest of our family would wholeheartedly agree. So we're home now and are trying to make the best of it. Please keep praying for Liza and the rest of us. Many blessings. Thankfully for you, the posts will begin to slow down now.

Finally home

2007-10-14T13:14:00.000-05:00

We were scheduled to leave the hospital at 10:00 AM. Our new Filipino nurse was awesome and set Liza up for one last shot at 10. Her IV had to come out of her hand so she got that one in...well, the keister (keester...sp?...the bum). She said it didn't hurt at all. Then we waited around for almost an hour to be discharged and get a wheelchair escort out. In the meanwhile I made several trips to the car to pack and Liza relaxed in the room trying to cope with some considerable pain. We drove out at 10:50 AM.

The car ride home was pretty rough, literally. You never realize how many bumps there are on I-45 until you're trying to avoid them all. She was worn out by the time we got home. We dropped off the prescriptions right away and then went home. The kids were waiting for us outside with their grandparents, but the reception wasn't what anyone envisioned. Andrew started crying for some unexplained reason and Izzy was pretty nervous and withdrawn. They're both okay now and it didn't take long.

Then I went to pick up her pain meds. Of course, there was a major problem when I got there - with both kids in tow. Dr. Tornado, who discharged us, didn't fill out the prescriptions correctly so they couldn't fill them. We had several tense moments of phone calls and finally got everything worked out. We rushed home and medicated mom as quickly as possible, where she was sitting in the exact position that we left her with my parents and her mom. Now we're waiting for the meds to kick in, trying to put the kids down for a nap, and then I'm off to get a big recliner to try to recreate a hospital bed feel in our bedroom. Continue to pray for her neck pain, which is almost exclusively on the left side. And pray that we ALL - especially Liza - get some rest right away, and that the rest of the day goes well.

Discharged

2007-10-14T06:58:00.000-05:00

Dr. Fox came in just a moment ago, and this time he was a little less like a tornado. He put in the papers for Liza's discharge and started carrying our stuff out into the hallway. Just kidding. But we will be leaving in a few hours and Liza is excited but nervous about the trip. We've organized with the nurse to get a new round of meds just before we walk out.

You can specifically pray for the left side of Liza's head and neck. She just said that without the pain on that side, she feels like she really wouldn't need much medication. But since she was in some pretty severe pain this morning, that tells me that the left side is pretty bad. Dr. Fox said that it is still too early to answer 'why' that is, but we would love for you to pray. Liza is also worried that the original symptoms that brought us into surgery will appear. Pray that that doesn't happen, going back to our request at the bottom of the very first post. We really want this to be it and for normal life to return for Liza. Even more, we are hoping and praying that she will feel like a new woman, younger, larger range of motion, better balance, etc. (less irritable - kidding again). So pray for Liza as you read this and we'll write again from the comfort of home.

Hopefully our last night

2007-10-13T23:42:00.001-05:00

Liza is sleeping soundly next to me, or at least WAS sleeping soundly until a nurse came in to take her vitals. She was very excited to be able to sleep on her side tonight for the first time. We're confident that tonight will be the last night here at the hospital although we're not quite sure what tomorrow will look like. All we have planned so far is a couple more walks around the floor and trying to get some more of the normal body functions working. I'll try to get her to sit up for an extended time and to eat some more. So if you read this tonight, pray for sweet rest for Liza (this engraving is the Hebrew word Shalom or peace) and that she would be encouraged and ready and excited to go home tomorrow. I want you to know she does want to go home, she's just nervous about being able to do all the things that being home requires. Thanks again for your prayers and thoughts. I think I hear a snore or two...

See for yourself

2007-10-13T19:13:00.001-05:00

Here are some photos as I promised. They include Liza's two incisions. The one on her neck is obviously covered up and is not quite as long as the bandage. The one on her thigh is two levels deep, with dissolvable stitches on the inside and simple Steri-strips on the outside. There is also a shot of her IV - don't worry about the blood, that's only been there for a few moments and the nurse says it's perfectly fine. You can also see Liza reading the blog and her sad face - think of that when you read that she's in pain.

Two of Liza's three brothers are coming for a visit shortly. Steven, who is home from college at Stephen F. Austin University for the weekend, and Jacob. Jacob and his wife Amy just had their first child, Zander Joseph Staines. He will be accompanied by older brother Dylan. That ought to be very encouraging for Liza.

Second lap and a shower

2007-10-13T18:44:00.000-05:00

Liza has taken her second lap around the floor (it's actually a stroke floor). I plan on getting her to try one more lap before she goes to bed. She's just ate some more soup and I made her a Scot-made-stolen-hospital-spoon-spun chocolate shake from chocolate ice cream and chocolate milk. It's actually wonderful if I do say so myself.

Andrew's visit was awesome. He was nervous at first but settled in nicely after a few moments. He was most excited to visit the very large electric train exhibit down in the Children's Hospital wing. We visited it twice. Then we said our goodbyes and I ran him back home so that I could hug Izzy and have a shower. That is, after we rode the Metro train up and back a few stops. They both have been looked after by my parents, who have served us with tremendous patience and humility.

Liza also had a shower! She is in heaven, relatively. Liza's mum has been giving her little sponge baths to relieve her as much as possible. But our new nurse, whom Liza loves for this reason, offered to help Sonja give Liza a shower and wash her hair. Liza jumped at the chance because she's been most uncomfortable these last few days with the state of her hair. It was a chemical wash but it feels better and smells of fruit. Liza will rest much better tonight because of it. I also convinced Liza that those across the ocean and others who haven't been able to visit might like to actually see her - so look forward to some photos on the next post later tonight.

Little man is on the way...

2007-10-13T09:38:00.001-05:00

In her own words, Liza "slept better, but was in some pretty severe pain." She elected to not be woken up from a good sleep to take the alternating round of meds. That would give her closer to four hours of solid sleep rather than about 1 and 1/2. It worked for sleep, but the pain was back up to an 8 (on a scale of 10) when we finally got the alternation down again.

We've got our Jamaican nurse back again - except she's not Jamaican. Sorry. She's from Cameroon, in Western Africa. I think it was my lack of sleep that failed my Henry Higgins' sensibilities. She's been very pleasant and helpful this morning as we try to get back on top of the pain.

Dr. Comair is out today so Dr. Fox is the resident that is tending to our floor. He came in this morning already, but was kind of like a tornado. He made some noise and left Liza dizzy and frustrated. He was just not quite as gentle as Dr. Comair. So...I guess we'll chalk that up as confirmation of our choice of doctors.

Liza has still been very brave and strong through this whole thing. Her mom is bringing Andrew, our 3 year old son, down for a quick visit. He'll stay to say hi to mommy, make her smile, and then I'll take him back home so that I can get cleaned up a bit. Pray that this little visit goes well and doesn't backfire on us into a meltdown.