I wanted to make absolutely sure that everyone gets this news. Today was the
"Surgery Day." Two of our writers journied into the OR! At 7:00a.m., Kris Palmer went first in St. Louis. That was 8 o'clock our time. I do believe it was somewhere around 1:30 - 2:00p.m. our time that Joanne called me. Shortly after that, Kris's sister, Mary, called me, too. Kris came through the surgery with 'flying colors!' She was sitting up in bed eating lunch already. It will take approximately two weeks before they turn the implant on. All healing must be done first. Then, of course, the adjustments will begin. Mary said the doctors were very pleased and confident with how the surgery progressed.
A short time later, Joe Porter called me. Jean Porter, too, had a successful surgery at the Venice Hospital and now has a brand new knee! If all procedes as expected, Jean will be able to come home and begin her rehabilitation. Joe is braced to be her caregiver, which he has handled like 'pro' before when Jean had a hip replacement. Joe, too, is a trooper!
But all is great! Both of our 'girls' are doing well. I will post mailing addresses for get well cards as soon as I get them.
More news on Poetry month. In my last post, it may have not been made clear that all the poetry events and open mics in April ARE open to the public. In fact, Linda White is actively promoting the Voices of Venice event at Jacaranda Library, as is Scott Zirkleback in North Port. Check Linda's site for updates:
www.poetsrule.com.
It's is only the Annual Review at the Suncoast Writers Guild that is closed to all but the Guild members as work is evaluated.
For our own meeting on the 6th of April we will celebrate poetry with an oncor performance of Jim Kelly's Poetry Workshop. He has promised a new box of tricks to focus upon. :) Jim's workshop, along with Jack Wolf's visit from San Diego, are arguably our most successful and enjoyed special events. People still talk to me about both events and Jim's workshop is often brought up when the subject of poetry presents itself. Also, Barbara Frickel has agreed to a request I made of her and we are in for another treat from the Frickel family.
Also have news of our dear missed writer, Bart Stamper! Bart is now working in Colorado. I had a nice letter from him when I was first home from the hospital and he hopes to visit us when he is the area. This last update came from Peter who emails with Bart regularly. Hoping, too, to see Donnie Miles soon. He usually makes an appearance late Spring or summer.
My friend, Lois Stern, has returned safely to Huntington, Long Island. She enjoyed her visits with us again and hopes to return for three months next winter. Before our meeting, I will contact Irv Newman and Tuck and update them. Hopefully, we'll see Ed Lyman soon as well.
I do believe I've got it covered which means I'll probably be posting again very soon. :))
Susan
