The Cox Chronicles

What is Happening in Our CRAZY World

2011-09-06T20:55:00.000-05:00

I know, I know...several folks have told me that miss me updating about what Daddy is doing & how things are going. The summer has actually been therapy, therapy & more therapy. Therapy was supposed to stop a couple of different times, but Daddy would show progress so they would extend it a few more weeks. He is finished w/ OT & PT, but continuing speech the rest of this month. We are thrilled with that b/c he has really seemed to be saying a few more words or at least understandable ones the last week or so. The rule with therapy is that you have to be making progress for it to continue so that is good that he has gone this long. We like therapy b/c that means there is improvement!!!

His PT is in the process of getting him a special splint for his paralyzed hand & arm so we are hoping that will be a good thing for him to have. We bought him a new recliner a few weeks ago & he LOVES it!!! After Daniel got it set up, he sat down & said AHHHH!!! Much better than the wheelchair for sure!

We had an exciting Labor Day weekend (not necessarily fun, but exciting)! Saturday night about 10:30, Mom found Daddy in his recliner with all limbs board stiff & straight, moaning & shaking. She immediately called 911. Once we got to the hospital, everyone concluded that he had a TIA (mini-stroke) b/c his CT didn't show any new stroke damage & TIA's only show on a MRI. He was back to normal by the time he arrived at the hospital, but they admitted him then did more tests on Sunday morning.

A friend had gone with me so I wasn't alone & she decided to come on back home once we knew nothing was life threatening. I told her to call me as soon as she got home since it was between 1-2 am. She called & I immediately said are you home...her response was no I hit a deer!! I was horrified that she was injured. She promised she was fine but she was worried about my van! I reassured her that was the least of my worries as long as she was ok. The van is at the repair shop & we are waiting on word regarding the damage. Again, I am just so thankful that she is ok. Those deer can really cause terrible injuries! I finally made it home about 4 so I slept for a few hours then headed to church. The kids & I came home ate a quick bite then crashed for a few hours before heading to the hospital while Daniel worked.

Sunday afternoon, we found out that Daddy's episode was actually a seizure which they were able to begin meds for to help prevent them in the furture. For the next 2 weeks, he cannot be left alone which he had been doing while Mom was at school. He likes his alone time & does well so it is good for both of them to have a little time on their own. Anyway, he is going to be my sidekick for the next few days while she is teaching preschool until he is cleared to be alone again. The doc wants to make sure the med is working so that if he does have another seizure he can be protected from being hurt.

That was probably the scarest thing Mom has ever seen!!! Needless to say that we were thrilled for the episode to be somethign that can be managed by meds instead of the TIAs where you never know when they will happen & they cause additional brain damage.

That pretty much recaps the Labor Day weekend! Please pray that while he is adjusting to the meds that he doesn't have any more seizures! Also that his speech will continue to show progress & that his therapist would keep extending time!! What a blessing!

I can't stop without a couple of pictures of Shawn & Anna Kate...you know he would be showing them off & talking about them non-stop to you so I'll do it for him :-)

After a stressful night in the hospital, we decided to take the kids to do something fun. We went to Marketplace in Conway for dinner with the intention of enjoying a Chocolate-Peanut Butter Mess for dessert! I need a serious chocolate fix & that was the cure!

AK thoroughly enjoyed it don't you think?!?! We all did for the record!!

That's a happy chocolate face!!!

Shawn had his 1st day of 4th grade at a new school! Shawn started at Arkansas Baptist this year. We are very excited about this for him & it has been a good transition. He is playing tackle football...not sure how I feel about that, but he has made some good friends & has enjoyed it!

AK actually had her 1st day of Preschool today!!! She has been so excited to go to school! She was the snack leader today which made it even better!

(These pics aren't great b/c they're from my phone.)

On the Go!!!

2011-06-06T22:50:00.001-05:00

We have had a busy last couple of days. On Friday, we headed to LR to help Mom work on getting the apartment in order plus Uncle Ronnie & Aunt Judi were coming down for a visit. Daddy had therapy Friday Am so our goal was to get some things done while he was there. Mom had already run some errands when we got there so we met up & ran to Target to look for some baskets or storage containers for the kids' toys (there's lots of them). By the time we finished our trip, it was pick up time.

Funny story...Mom sent me inside to bring Daddy out so I went down to wait. I had been down there about there about 15 minutes & he never came out. I started to sort of panic & of course I didn't have my phone to call to Mom. I finally found someone & she asked who I was looking for. I said Phil Harvey & she said oh I saw him today. She said I parked him right here. Then she said "he can't go anywhere by himself can he?!?" I just laughed at her!! My thought...oh great I can't even pick up from therapy without loosing him!! Haha! I really started to panic then. About that time, Mom got off the elevator & said he was upstairs. He was going up when I was going down so he hadn't been down there the whole time. Whew!!! I was sweating that one.

We had decided we would drive thru to grab some lunch then head back to work. Daddy started pointing his finer & saying something but we didn't know what. He was very emphatic about where he wanted to go & finally we approached Bowman Curve shopping center when he pointed over to Crazy Mike's. That's what he wanted!!! This is HUGE bc he hasn't been out to eat. He has been somewhat embarrassed about being in the chair so we knew it would come but didn't know it would be right then! Ha!

Needless to say, Mom was a bit stressed by the thought of getting inside, finding a place to sit w/ the chair, add in 2 kids, etc. I told her we had to go though...had to make it happen! We made & don't have any battle scars from it.

We finally made it back for Daddy's nap time then it was time for Uncle Ronnie & Aunt Judi to be there. I did get the shelf we bought put together...one task accomplished!

We had a great visit with them while they were here. It was really good for Daddy to see them!!! We all sat around & talked while Shawn fished for crawdads in the creek & Anna Kate played babies on the porch!! Grant was even there for a few minutes before having to head to work. Uncle Ronnie & Aunt Judi headed back to NWA this am but stopped back by to visit for a little bit more. I'm so glad they came!!!! (And not just bc they brought fresh blueberries!)

To end an already BIG Friday, as my crew was preparing to leave, I asked Daddy if he was hungry & he shook his head yes. He started gesturing & trying really hard to tell us something. I asked him if he wanted us to bring him dinner. He shook his head yes so I started asking what. When I mentioned Macaroni Grill, he pointed at me & smiled so I told him I would go get it. That's when he pointed at each of us & then to the door...he wanted to GO eat again!! So what did we do?!? We went!

We had a wonderful evening out & it was so nice for all of us to go out. I know what you're thinking...we went out at lunch, but it was all of us like old times.

The night got really interesting when Shawn was convinced that he saw Guy Fieri at the bar. There was much "discussion" about whether it was really him or not. Daniel bribed him to go ask. Daniel told him he would take him for frozen yogurt if he went to ask. Yes, he went & the guy laughed it off telling him no. At this point, Mom & I were ready to hide under the table. Well, he then called Shawn back over & gave him a piece of paper with his signature on it. You be the judge...although if you can't tell from the smile, he's certain!!!

That pretty much sums up the beginning of the weekend. The weekend continued to a good one since Mom & Dad made it to church for the first time since April 3!!! They were both very glad to be there! I'll share about Sunday very soon. Til then...

Much love to all of you & thank you for your continued prayers, love, support & encouragement.

Let's Roll!!!

2011-05-30T19:45:00.001-05:00

When we were able to move Mom & Daddy downstairs, there was still one major issue that had to be tackled...a ramp. Even though their apartment is on the first level, there were still some steps to navigate. The issue became a little more pressing when plans quickly changed for Daddy to come instead going to another rehab facility.

Well, as usual, some wonderful men stepped up & took on this project as a personal ministry for Daddy.

With this being a long weekend, a couple of guys went yesterday to measure & purchase supplies then headed back to Terry's shop to begin building. Terry & Mark build the frame pieces in the shop then loaded them up & transported them today to put together at the apartment.

They worked for a few hours this afternoon & completed the project for very 2 very appreciative & thankful people! Mom & Daddy can now easily come & go from the apartment...just in time for therapy to begin Wednesday!

Daddy spent some out watching the work & I think enjoying the process. Mom said there were a couple of discussions about some things & hat Daddy seemed to get tickled listening & watching them figure it out. I'm sure he was fit to be tie not being able to tell them how & what to do ;-)

And....the finished product....

We cannot begin to express our thankfulness & gratitude for these men. They took time away from their families this Memorial Day weekend to bless Mom & Daddy in an amazing way! This has been a huge burden for Mom & I'm so grateful for their gifts, servant hearts & work ethic. Thank you beyond words to Terry, Mark, Doug, Matt & Dave!

Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others. Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus...Philippians 2.3-5

There's No Place Like Home

2011-05-21T07:34:00.001-05:00

Mom & Grant got Daddy home Friday afternoon even in the craziness of the storms. (Daniel, kids & I are in St. Louis. We had planned this little trip before we knew the plans were going to change on leaving BRI.) When everything changed, Mom said she still wanted us to go to get away & relax a little. We have had a fantastic time so far! It's been wonderful for the kids to have our undivided attention.

Anyway, other than the rain, I think the transition has been pretty smooth. Daddy gave Mom "that look" when they got home since there were still some boxes around from the move. She said don't worry I have plenty of time to work on those. They were able to maneuver the couple of down steps getting to the apartment, but we have some amazing friends who are planning & working on building a ramp. The apartment has marked mom 2 parking places to be reserved for her under the awning so that she can get Daddy out of the car & into his chair which will be nice on days like yesterday.

I'm anxious to hear how their first night home went, but Mom is really trying to not call so that we can have some family time...she is so sweet!!!! She wants all of us to have time together, have fun & relax. We are sending her a few pictures so she can share w/ Grandpa ;-) Some pics we've sent...have to throw these cute faces in somehow!

Out-patient therapy begins Thursday @ BRI so we are all ready to get that going. Daddy has already met his speech therapist (I think she filled in for his regular therapist one day maybe). His therapists he's had have promised to come check in on his though & I'm sure he will go down to visit. Some amazing friends are in the planning & process of building a ramp for Daddy @ the apartment. Parking places have already been reserved for them so that Mom can get Daddy out of the car into wheelchair then inside. We are so very thankful & grateful for the wonderful people that God has put in our lives!!!

I'm anxious to hear how the first night went, but I'm sure it was fine. He was probably completely worn out from therapy yesterday morning then actually getting home. Please continue to pray for his speech, but also now that they are home pray that he will not make too many impulsive decisions (common w/ stroke)! That's why Matt his PT wouldn't send him home w/ a walker & even reminded him again not to be overly confident!!! Now that he is home he may feel like he can do more, but still has limitations. We are hoping being home will motivate him, but he still has to remember to be careful. For Mom, pray that she has the strength, endurance, grace & peace to do what needs to be done.

A little side note that Mom will not want to forget, but don't think she could if she tried...Thursday morning we stopped by to say hi/bye & give loves. Mom walked us down to the van when we were leaving bc we had brought them some Chick-fil-a for breakfast ;-) In the meantime, the medical equipment guy shows up in Daddy's room w/ all this stuff. When Mom gets back upstairs, the guy is explaining how everything works & what you do to Daddy...very helpful (can you hear the sarcasm?!?). So Mom jumps in & takes over. While she is signing papers she hears a crash behind her...yep, Daddy on the floor!!! (He is fine & was thoroughly checked out.) Apparently, he decided to get up or into bed, not really sure, but none the less he feel between the bed & the nightstand. He didn't hit is head, but I'm sure he's sore! Remember, the very helpful medical equipment guy?!? He turned around & walked out of the room w/ Daddy laying on the floor!!! Seriously?!? Watch out single ladies bc there's a real winner out there somewhere!!! Essie, his nurse, & other staff rushed in to get him up. They got him up, checked him out & had the doctor come by also. Everyone said he was fine. Mom was so thankful he didn't hit his head on the nightstand!!! I know that most of you now have a streak of fear thinking what will he do if that happen @ home?!? Well, like Essie had just told her while we were there that she could always call 911 if she needed them. We are praying that doesn't happen!!!!

So I think that pretty well sums everything up...that I know. Have a wonderful weekend & I'll update in a few days about how things are going! Thank you all once again for your many, many prayers! We are so grateful & thankful for the blessing of relationships that God has given us!!!

THANK YOU!!!

2011-05-17T15:59:00.001-05:00

This is another week of change & transition...I typed this post last night but fell asleep before I got it posted. How sad is that?!? Ha!

We transferred Mom & Dad into the downstairs apartment this weekend which we couldn't have accomplished without those who pitched in to pack, move boxes & unpack. It's not quite there yet, but it is getting there.

Sunday afternoon, we all headed to BRI for a few minutes of visiting. Daddy was actually asleep when we got there but that didn't last long since Shawn & Anna Kate were in tow!! Ha! He was laying in bed & we were talking when all of sudden AK started "doing therapy."

She had found a rubberband in the room & told Grandpa it was time to do some therapy. She slipped the rubberband over his foot up onto his leg. She kept telling him now do this or move your foot this way. It was hilarious bc she has seen him in therapy enough to know a few things that they do as well as being a therapy veteran herself.

After she had done a little PT, she decided it was time for some speech! She pulled out his alphabet chart & start saying the ABCs w/ him.

Shawn joined for the speech session to work on counting & numbers.

They both love working w/ him on his letters & numbers. When we were in the process of saying good-byes, the kids had hugged & kissed when Daddy pulled himself to a sitting position using his left arm & the bedrail. Then he slipped his legs off the bed & just sat on the side of the bed! I was completely impressed @ that point but then he just stood up!!!! He braced himself w/ his left hand on the bedrail but he got up easier than he has ever gotten off my couch!! Ha!

Of course, Mom started telling him that he couldn't walk or he would fall...he of course gave her "the look." It was amazing!!!! We got his wheelchair & he pivoted himself a bit & sat down in his chair. Mom & I were there but didn't really do anything!! This was a BIG deal!!!

Another BIG deal was this after non when he finished PT w/ Matt, he was leaving & Mom said you better tell matt "thank you" & he DID!!!!!! He said "Thank You" to Matt! Our friend, Lisa (a PT), was standing there also & so they ALl heard it!!!! We are very excited & anxious about what might be next! He has been making huge strides (at least to us)!!

I was @ Heart hospital today checking on someone & when I left the room walking past the nurse's station I saw one of Daddy's nurses (Kathy) that he had during his week @ Heart. She said that she has had Mom & Dad on her heart & mind the past few days. That is just one example of how we know that God is impressing upon people how to love us then you are obedient so we are so grateful!!!! I asked Kathy to share how things were going w/ the other nurses

Thank you once again to all of you for your prayers, calls, texts & visits. We are so appreciative for each & every one! Please continue your prayers & encouragement especially as we were faced w/ some different news than expected on Tuesday am. Mom was told this am that there was significant pay increase in the rehab facility since it was out of network...only problem is that there are no facilities in LR proper in network. So long story short..,Daddy goes HOME on Friday! This has caught us off guard, but we do feel ok w/ this situation if we can get some things done @ the new place to be ready for him. I know none of this has caught God by surprise so we continue to trust even when we don't understand or feel like we are fighting an up-hill battle! We know that Daddy wouldn't be where he is now if it wasn't for God's care & provision which he will continue to provide! Please be prying for all of us as we make this huge transition!

Walking Laps

2011-05-13T16:37:00.001-05:00

AK & I had to go to LR today for her one year check-up w/ her ENT, Dr. Ritcher, at Arkansas Children's Hospital. We LOVE Dr. Ritcher & he has been wonderful to us over the past 2 years as we have dealt w/ AK's ear issues. He gave her a clean bill of health today & said that we don't need to come see him again unless we have problems. Great news!!! But we will miss seeing him!

Since we had time this morning after her appointment, we headed to BRI to surprise Daddy & do some therapy w/ him. He was very surprised to see us, but very glad! We got there just in time for PT & OT. He had PT w/ Matt first so he got the walker ready for Daddy to walk some laps around the gym.

He started walking & didn't want to stop. Matt would make him take breaks between laps, but Daddy would look at him & point to let him know he was ready to go again. He walked 3 laps. The longest lap was 162 feet!!!! The others weren't quite that long but each were well over 100 feet!

During PT, Matt also helped Daddy work on transferring from the chair to the bench & also standing from sitting. Each therapy is about 45 minutes so that's lots of walking & standing!

AK brought Grandpa his favorite cookies (Keebler Fudge Stripes) that she gave him as a treat for doing so well in therapy!

After PT, it was time for OT w/ Cheryl. Daddy started w/ a computer game where he worked his right hand manipulating a joystick to move a basket & catch dropping balls. They use an ace bandage to keep his hand attached to the stick then he works the movement of his arm back & forth. After some computer time, he worked on movement & range of motion w/ a stick/pole that I don't know the name for :-/ They asked AK to help hold the pole while he slid his hand back & forth.

She loved helping w/ Grandpa's therapy. He moves a smaller pipe piece up & down the pole to work his muscles as well as range of motion. As he was working his arm, they used a stimulator on his upper arm & he started hurting really bad. He has muscle spasms quite often from all the intense exercises. They stopped working his arm then & iced it down...he didn't really enjoy that too much either.

When he was finished w/ morning therapy, we all went to McBride's for lunch. Daddy had not been there yet so we thought that would be a good treat. We had a wonderful lunch & I'm pretty sure flat wore him out!!!

We all went back to the room to give loves & kisses before heading home. Another wife of a patient brought Mom a "pear" yesterday but she realized something wasn't quite right...it was too hard. Turns out it was chocolate...really good chocolate!!! Anyway, AK started chomping into it! Haha!

It was a great time together & I'm so proud of how hard Daddy is working in therapy. I can't even imagine how exhausting, frustrating & grueling all that must be. It's all those things just to watch! So glad & thankful we had some special time together!
Keep praying for Daddy's progress & for all the steps required to get him moved into the rehab facility.

Wordless Wednesday...mostly

2011-05-11T15:24:00.000-05:00

Anna Kate has been practicing her Speech Therapy skills learned from Ms. Leigh Ann, Ms. Charity & Ms. Missy!!

Practicing mouth positions in the mirror.

2011-05-10T11:13:00.002-05:00

Well, this morning was staff meeting, but we still are in somewhat of a limbo. Mom visited with Dr. Kiser this am & they talked about what needs/should happen next. Dr. Kiser was pleased with his walking yesterday so she wasn't sure what would come from the meeting.

Daddy walked yesterday without the harness suspension & simply walked with a heavy duty brace...similar to a walker. Mom said he did much better with that than the harness so that was great! She said he moved his leg better & more with this one also.

They have staffed already this morning & they are in agreement that they would like for him to actually stay @ BRI til next Wednesday (if insurance will allow him to stay). Rebecca (social worker) will be talking to his insurance during the day today. She told Mom that we should know a definite plan by this afternoon. Mom would be thrilled if he could stay a few days longer there then transition, but we know that God is in control so we are trusting him to make the path clear & straight.

Thank you for praying for our family today (and over the last month) as we anticipated hearing what our part of the journey would be. We are not loosing heart & standing strong in the truth of God's Word!

I will update when we know more, but for now you can pray that God's will is done & that we have the grace & peace to accept what He puts before us.

Mom just called & Rebecca received the approval for Daddy to stay one more week @ BRI!!! We are excited & Mom is very happy!

Sufficient Grace

2011-05-07T22:32:00.001-05:00

From the moment I woke up Friday until I went to bed, I felt God's grace in an amazing way. I told Mom that there were so many praying for us...those who knew what the day would hold & those that didn't have any idea but God laid our family on their hearts so they were obedient to intercede on our behalf. Mom even said once we were back at BRI after lunch that she knew it sounded strange to say that she felt good about what was happening & I said that's God's grace & peace from everyone praying!

We only went to tour 2 facilities yesterday...Good Shepherd & Chenal Heights. (FYI...We have NOT begun this conversation w/ Daddy yet, but will this week. I'll share more about that another time.) We were very pleased with both & didn't feel that we needed to go any further since we had a peace about both. Again, God's provision!

We have chosen Chenal Heights & Rebecca, the BRI social worker, is beginning the process of making that happen when the discharge date is definite. Dr. Kiser told Mom yesterday am that May 12 was tentative but they would staff again this Tuesday then we will have a more definite transition date.

When we got back to see Daddy, it was time for afternoon therapy time. First up was Recreation where they decided a friendly game of UNO was in order. Grant & AK got to play also...guess who won?!? Anna Kate! She was SO proud that she was part of the game & that she won!!! Of course, I'm not sure why she would enjoy that so much since no one made a big deal out of it. Ha!

After Rec, it was time for Language group, Speech, OT & PT so AK & I headed back to pick up Shawn from school. AK was upset when we said bye to Nana bc she wanted to come straight back instead of running an errand first. I finally convinced her that we were coming back to have a special dinner w/ Grandpa. She still would remind me occasionally that she was ready to go see Grandpa. So sweet!!!!

Mom sent us a pic of Daddy during PT walking using the harness but w/out the shopping cart!!! He had used the cart that morning so he walked twice which completely wore him out!!! Mom told him that we were bringing him a special dinner (Macaroni Grill) since he had worked so hard in therapy.

We picked up his favorite...Alfredo w/ chicken & shrimp! Mom & Dad met us...you guessed...in the garden for a little evening picnic! It was a nice afternoon & made even better when Olan & Kathy stopped by. We all sat around & talked for a few minutes. Olan reminded Daddy that he needed to better so he could get back to ushering at church. Haha! Daddy just gave him "the" look ;-) What a wonderful day that will be though when be can be back at his door & Shawn w/ him...I can't wait!!!

We went back up to the room for a few minutes but didn't stay too long bc Daddy started having what we think were back or leg spasms from all the hard work. He wiggled around in his chair a bit & seemed to get some relief, but was ready for bed! When the nurse came to help him transfer, I was impressed bc he did even better than just a few days before when I saw him do it. He did more himself w/ less help from the aide. That's what we like to see!! We did manage to get a couple of pics before left & I was able to get one of Mom.

Thank you for all the sweet prayers, calls, texts & visits. We are continually overwhelmed by your gracious generosity!!! We are blessed beyond measure!

The Next Chapter

2011-05-05T22:13:00.001-05:00

Sorry it's been a few days since I updated, but there just hasn't much new info to report. The last couple of days have brought new things but Mom & I both have been very emotional so I refrained from writing b/c I truly couldn't put two words together that made sense. We had not received any bad news or anything like that, but the exhaustion & emotion of the past four weeks had finally caught up with us.

Mom met w/ Rebecca, the BRI case manager, yesterday to discuss Daddy's discharge plan. Dr. Kiser & the therapists were talking to Mom about her learning to help transfer him, etc. After meeting yesterday though, we are thinking the best decision at this point will probably be to find a Skilled Nursing Facility or rehab center where he can get the most therapy (not quite as much as he's getting now but more than just a couple of days a week). Trust me...this is a very difficult decision since we had so hoped Daddy would have progressed enough to go straight home. However, we want the best for him & as of now that seems to be what will provide him the best therapy options as well as offering him more therapy options once he does come home. The joys of putting the insurance puzzle together so that it works best!

God has continued to bless us beyond measure & one way He has done that is through His people! We have a very dear friend whose sister worked in insurance case management for years & she has offered to walk through all of this technical stuff w/ us. Marty joined Mom & Rebecca in their meeting yesterday. Mom said that Marty was & is invaluable!!! It was so good to have someone who knows the ins & outs of how things work as well as all the medical stuff that goes along with making these decisions. Marty has offered to help us in any way possible so I'm sure we will be calling on her expertise again very soon.

Mom, Grant & I will be going to visit some of the rehab facilities on Friday & then we are getting together Friday along w/ Daniel to discuss everything & make some definite plans as well as make sure we are all on the same page. Please be praying for all of us this weekend as we will be making some very important decisions. We know that God has brought us this far in our journey & He has every plan to see us through each step. He is faithful!!!!

In therapy news, Anna Kate was talking to Daddy this morning on the phone & he said "hi sweet pea." It was somewhat drawn out (well, we do live in Arkansas...haha) but his voice was loud & strong!! We were very excited to say the least!!!! I had the phone on speaker so was able to hear it as well & Mom immediately started telling AK to give me the phone so she could tell me not realizing that I was already listening. He was trying really hard to talk to AK & Shawn when we tree Tuesday, but we couldn't make anything out. He was trying to sing his ABCs ;-) Daniel stopped by tonight on his way home & said that Daddy was combining "Amazing Grace" with "ABCs." We will take whatever we can get though!!! AK talked to Mom either yesterday or this am & said "that therapy is hard work." Haha! Pretty funny & ironic seeing as she has had all those therapies. Must make her an expert & she knows how exhausting those sessions can be ;-) It was so sweet!!

Daddy worked on standing & walking in the harness again today while pushing the shopping cart. I'm adding a picture & sorry it's sideways, but I just didn't have the opportunity to work on it today to get it fixed.

Well, my eyes are beginning to cross & roll into my head so I'm taking that as a sign that it's bedtime!!! Thanks to each of you for your prayers & acts of kindred & generosity. God has blessed us beyond measure w/ tremendous family, friends & church family!!! Even Daddy's PT noticed when a couple from church came to see & said that we must have a wonderful church bc everyone is so nice! Mom let him know that yes we definitely had a fantastic church family. God's tangible way to demonstrate His love & grace.

Thank you in advance for your prayers & acts of kindness/generosity. We have only made it this far by His grace Whig He will continue to supply new mercies every morning! Thank you also for keeping up w/ us through the blog & reaching out to love us in so many tangible ways. Have a wonderful weekend & blessings to each of you!!!

We will take more pictures this weekend! Promise!

60 years & counting

2011-04-28T21:07:00.001-05:00

As I mentioned before, Wednesday was Daddy's birthday. He turned 60!!! Not exactly how we thought we might celebrate, but we were thankful to be together & that's all that really matters!

Our staff was in LR for Administrative Assistants Lunch so when we finished, Frances & I went to see Mom & Daddy. I took Daddy his card. Our gift to him was a small CD player so Frances & Dave gave him a couple of CDs to enjoy...James Taylor, Frank Sinatra & Jim Croce. He loves those guys so I know he will enjoy listening to their music since even though he can't play a guitar & sing (yet)! We had a good visit & then it was time for therapy so spent some time w/ Mom then headed back to Benton.

The kids & I left church early so we could head to the hospital to have some special birthday time w/ Daddy, Mom & Uncle Grant (Daniel had to work). For the first time, I tried my hand for the first time at Banana Pudding. This is one of Daddy's 2 favorites...the other is Coconut Cream Pie. He gave me a thumbs up when I told him what I made & he gave the nod of approval as he was eating so I guess I passed! Before he could eat, AK said we had to song "Happy Birthday!" We all sang (no candles since i didn't want us to be the cause of setting off the fire alarm...haha!

AK decided that Grandpa needed a little help eating so she crawled up in the bed w/ him & started feeding him. She was cracking me up bc every time she would give him a bite she would stick her tongue out...that's lots of work to get the spoon to the mouth ;-) Shawn suggested that they make their own cards instead of buying one so that's what we did. They were SO proud of their artwork & those pictures are now decorating Grandpa's room!

We had a great time together & at AK's commanded us in singing "Happy Birthday" probably 5 times! She's all about birthdays! When we would sing, Daddy would point his finger & wave it in the air like he was directing. It was so sweet!!!

Over the past few weeks when I've taken my camera out Daddy would shake his head or give me a look letting me know he didn't want his picture made. Well, he's gotten better in the past couple of days so we were able to get some actual birthday pictures. He & Grant even laughed a little about having to take birthday pictures. It's so nice to do some normal stuff like drive each other crazy bc Mom cuts everyone's head off taking a picture...haha! I decided not to include that one though ;-)

Well, it was a good day for him! Thanks for all the birthday wishes from everyone on Facebook, word of mouth & cards! That made the day so special!!! Prayers are being answered every day so please continue! We love you all & are so grateful for such a wonderful extended family!!

2011-04-27T15:52:00.001-05:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

DADDY!!!

PRAISE!!!!

2011-04-26T11:29:00.000-05:00

Mom talked to Matt, Daddy's physical therapist, this morning after their staff meeting & Daddy will be staying at BRI until May 12!!! Matt said that he pulled really hard to keep him b/c of the progress that he is making physically so we are thrilled!

Thank you for your prayers & once again God has provided. He is faithful all the time. I have to share a quick story about Anna Kate this am. We were sitting in the van listening to the radio this am while I was putting on my makeup & a song that has really ministered to me came on the radio "I Will Lift My Hands" by Christ Tomlin). It's an incredible song of hope & assurance of God's faithfulness. This song & another of Tomlin's songs have become my theme songs in the last few weeks.

Anyway, she & I were singing along with the radio just having a good time. There is a part of the song that says "I lift my hands to believe" & she raised her hands up in the air. It was amazing! I know she doesn't understand what it means to lift hands in praise to the Lord, but I want her to know. I want her to not be ashamed to praise her Creator in any place or at any time. I am so thankful for her praising even in the midst of storms or trails.

Listen to "I Lift My Hands"

Thank you again for being our prayer warriors as we make our way this season of life. We are so grateful for brothers & sisters in Christ who go before the Throne on our behalf. All glory, praise & honor to the ONE TRUE GOD!!!!

Prayer Warriors Needed

2011-04-25T18:59:00.001-05:00

Dr. Kiser & all of Daddy's therapists will have staff meeting in the morning to discuss his progress. Please pray that they agree he is progressing & benefitting from the aggressive therapy he is receiving. We really want him to stay as long as he needs so that he can get the best therapy & help available, but we also know that God is in control.

Today, Daddy was in the easy stand chair pushing a shopping cart!! Mom said her phone battery died when she got ready to take a picture, but she said they will do it tomorrow also & she promised a picture ;-)

Thank you so much for your continued prayers & your faithfulness in reading the blog posts. As I've said so many times, our words cannot begin to express our gratitude for your thoughts & prayers. God is faithful...every day in every situation.

(I downloaded a new photo gadget for my phone & thought I would share a couple of pictures. I've used these photos before but they have a different look.)

Glorious Day

2011-04-24T19:53:00.001-05:00

Today has been a glorious day! Obviously, not what I would have chosen or asked for, but God is faithful regardless! His plan...not mine! Worship was amazing this morning! I was once again reminded of how blessed I am even when I think things are bad! We are continually told in Scripture that "when" bad things happen we mist cling to our hope-Christ. He is the one & only way will be able to stand under the pressures, trials & heartaches of this life. I mentioned that Shawn & I participated in the first ever Good Friday service which was a very reflective time focused on Christ's sacrifice & death on the cross. Today we celebrated the life & hope we have in Christ in the power of the resurrection.

Daddy had therapy this afternoon from 2:30-3:30 so we all meet in the garden to have Easter dinner together. I made mashed potatoes, green beans & 4 Layer Delight then we picked up chopped beef brisket from Famous Dave's. Those are all some of Daddy's favorites & I wanted to make this a special meal for him as well as all of us.

He smiled a lot & kept eating so I think he enjoyed it. Shawn & AK hunted eggs in the garden after we ate. It was a gorgeous day to be outside & to be together! I know Daddy was tired, but he did well staying outside for a long time then he, Grant & Shawn headed back up to the room. We had some visitors today that helped make the day be even more special. Thank you to all of you who have taken time to come by to say "Hi!" We really appreciate it. (I'm sorry that I don't have pictures of everyone that has come to visit, but we did get one of Faith w/ Mrs. Helen for her to share w/ Mom's class tomorrow.)

We hung out in the room for a while then started saying good-bye. AK crawled up in the bed w/ Grandpa & really didn't want to leave. It was so good for all o us to see them do something normal together. She & Shawn neither one wanted to leave so we persuaded them w/ the bribe of driving through Krispy Kreme (works every time) Haha!!!!! ;-)

Thank you so much for your continued prayers, words of encouragement, visits, cards & calls. We appreciate each of you so much. It is by God's grace & Him alone that we have made it this far & will continue each day.

I hope all of you have experienced the love, forgiveness & hope of the empty tomb this Easter weekend! One of the songs we sang Friday was "Glorious Day." It's a newer version that's been released, but a very old hymn. I just love the message of this song-hope you do too.

Glorious Day

One day when Heaven was filled with His praises
One day when sin was as black as could be
Jesus came forth to be born of a virgin
Dwelt among men, my example is He
Word became flesh and the light shined among us
His glory revealed

Living, He loved me
Dying, He saved me
Buried, He carried my sins far away
Rising, He justified freely forever
One day He’s coming
Oh glorious day, oh glorious day

One day they led Him up Calvary’s mountain
One day they nailed Him to die on a tree
Suffering anguish, despised and rejected

Bearing our sins, my Redeemer is He
Hands that healed nations, stretched out on a tree
And took the nails for me

One day the grave could conceal Him no longer
One day the stone rolled away from the door
Then He arose, over death He had conquered
Now He’s ascended, my Lord evermore
Death could not hold Him, the grave could not keep Him
From rising again

One day the trumpet will sound for His coming
One day the skies with His glories will shine
Wonderful day, my Beloved One, bringing
My Savior, Jesus, is mine

Every Day Is A Good Day...Some days are just better than others!

2011-04-23T10:18:00.001-05:00

Since Shawn was out of school for Good Friday, I had told the kids we could go to BRI & see what Grandpa does in therapy. Shawn was there for speech on Wednesday, but he was really interested in Physical therapy & exactly what they involved. So we were able to experience Physical & Occupational therapies while we were there.

When we got there, Daddy was in group speech so Mom met us down in the garden to eat her lunch then we all headed back inside for therapy time. The day was ABSOLUTELY gorgeous!!! I think the sunshine did us all good!

Daddy was so excited to see Shawn & Anna Kate!!! He was more interactive w/ them than he has been so far. He was trying really hard to talk to AK & she looked at me & whispered "I can't hear Grandpa." I know that's hard for her to understand, but she knows he is trying! He worked really in OT to put his own shirt on all by himself...one handed! His OT has also started taping his right shoulder to pull it back up instead of it dragging due to the weakness. It seems to be helping...it at least in lime w/ his left one. They also put on the BioNess stimulator machine. He's not real fond of that & after a few minutes was pulling it off. They encouraged him NOT to do that or he would get a really bad shock! Ouch!! In PT, his therapist worked w/ him standing while bracing himself on the table. He had worked really hard that morning so he was worn out, but the more they worked the easier he seemed to move. They worked on him shifting his hips back & forth to shift his weight the same way we do when we walk.

When therapy was over, we asked if he wanted to go outside & he said yes so we headed back to the garden. Daddy seemed to really enjoy watching the kids play on the rocks & in the water. Again, the day was gorgeous so it was definite therapy for everyone. Is this just not the sweetest thing?!? AK needed to help get Grandpa where he needed to go. She walked right beside him w/ her hand on his chair the entire time we walked...inside or out!

While we were in the garden, Grant came up also & we were all there together. When Grant sat down to eat his lunch/snack/supper, Daddy started moving his chair bc he wanted to be at the table w/ him. Daddy was very involved & interactive w/ all of us yesterday. It was amazing!!! Mom goes down to McBride's Cafe almost every day to see what kind of homemade desserts they have so she can get Daddy a treat for after therapy. Yesterday was Chocolate Four Layer Delight! He ate his dessert while we were in the garden & AK wanted to give him a bite.

She also shared the cream from her mall cookie w/ Grandpa! It felt so good to do something kinda normal as a family (we did miss Daniel though)!

AK didn't want stand still very long so I didn't have a lot of luck w/ a pic of her :-( She had a blast though!

Shawn & I went to the Good Friday service @ church last night when we got back to town. It was incredible & we both needed to be reminded how wonderful our Savior is!!! He is our hope in the good times & bad! He is Faithful!!!

Today seems to be a little of a downer for us all though. Dr. Kiser told Mom this am that Daddy wasn't progressing as fast as they had hoped. He said we have to get the speech! We aren't real sure what to do w/ that information & what all that means for now or the future. Even though we don't know what tomorrow holds, we know the One who holds tomorrow. He has been faithful every day of this journey & will continue to be. I am constantly reminded of how a day can't go by w/out my total dependance on Him for every need! Please pray for progress that no one can explain except by the hand of God. (Dr. Kiser is a believer & has ministered to mom this week. He has worn a different "Christian Faith" tie every day this Holy Week. What a testimony & opportunity to share his faith! I pray that I do the same in my world!

Also, please continue to pray that Mom will be able to stay. They are very full @ BRI so she is constantly aware of the fact that they could walk in & say they need her bed! Probably her biggest worry & fear! I hope you all have a wonderful Easter celebrating the resurrection of our Savior!!! Christ is Risen!

Every Day Is A New Day

2011-04-20T21:56:00.001-05:00

I'm sure some of you are wondering what has happened to me not posting for a couple of days & want to know what's been going on in Daddy's world the last couple of days. I've been back to work this week so I'm trying juggle spending time w/ Daddy, getting things done @ church & my household people. Mondays are my hospital visitation days so I was able to spend a couple of hours at the hospital w/ Mom & Daddy. I introduced Mom to McBride's Cafe on the first floor @ BRI. They have such good food that doesn't resemble hospital food at all!!! Mom said she had found her new favorite place! Haha!

Daddy didn't feel 100% Monday bc his blood pressure was really low so he was having trouble standing & doing some of the things they wanted him to do in PT. I think Dr. Kiser has that leveled out now though so he is feeling much better. Please continue to pray that they will be able to keep his meds where they need to be so he can get the most out of his therapy.

Yesterday, his speech therapist enrolled him in a reading/writing group therapy session as well. We don't know much of what happens during that time since we aren't allowed in the group bc of HIPPA rules. He has is going to the "SIP" program that is when he has a specialist watch him eat & basically in her own words "nags" him about slowing down, taking smaller bites, etc. He is doing well w/ eating & today they started him on chopped foods instead of pureed. He ate it all! We are seeing little things everyday where he is improving, but we also have to remember that we are still in the early stages of the marathon so we can't get discouraged!

Even though he is "technically" not supposed to be eating regular food, where there's a will there's a way! Daddy had a student nurse w/ him during all his therapies yesterday so Mom decided to run home to get cleaned up, do some laundry, etc. Well, she got back & Daddy was already in his room looking @ himself in the mirror by the counter. She looked down onto the counter & this is what she saw...

Daddy had managed to get his wheelchair over to a gift basket that someone sent & found what he wanted to eat! Thankfully, he didn't actual choke on either item since he was alone in his room! Whew!!!! Mom asked him if he got choked on that apple & he shook his head yes! Lovely! When Mom told Dr. Kiser this am, he just laughed! She promised that she was taking it home so he wouldn't get into again!

Today, I checked Shawn out of school @ lunch & we headed up to see Mom & Daddy. Daddy was glad to see Shawn but had just finished lunch so he was ready for a quick powernap before heading back to therapy. While he rested, Mom, Shawn & I headed down for lunch @ McBride's. (I told you we really liked it!) We then headed back upstairs to get ready for therapy. The staff has started moving Daddy from his chair to the bed w/ holding onto him as he stands instead of the sling that they were using. He doesn't have lots of control but can help some. Every little bit helps! Mom had stepped into the restroom as once they got into his chair he looked at me & motioned his arm in the air to let me know he was ready to roll! I asked him if I got to drive today & he shook his head yes! He wouldn't let me on Monday. Haha! Shawn was asking but I told him I didn't think that was a very good idea! We had hoped for Shawn to experience PT, but we went to speech instead. Daddy did well & worked really hard to voice his numbers while counting w/ his therapist. He was getting some sounds out so he just has to keep working. It was really good for Shawn to see first hand what Grandpa does every day & how all the therapists are helping him get better.

Several of you continue to ask...Mom is eating & taking care of herself. She is still able to sleep @ BRI. Grant has been coming up in the afternoons & e evenings some to stay while Mom leaves for a little bit.

I think that pretty well sums up the past couple of days...besides the weather which has been ridiculous!!! Thankfully, we have remained safe!

Thanks again to everyone for continuing to keep up w/ Daddy's progress & your continual prayers! They truly mean so much to us! Hope everyone is having a blessed Holy Week as we look towards Easter! Praise God Christ is risen! He is our HOPE!!!!

Standing Strong

2011-04-18T11:37:00.001-05:00

Even though I haven't seen Mom yet this morning, we both seem to be a little emotional today. As Frances just said, "wearied, worn & worried.". I think that pretty well sums it up. God is still good...no, He's great & the same yesterday, today & tomorrow.

As I read my devotion this morning from "Jesus Calling," it was talking about God's DAILY grace being sufficient bc He wants us to depend on Him every day. If He gave us more than we need for the moment, then we would depend on ourselves not Him. We see throughout Scripture where God gave His people only what they needed for that day. When wondering in the wilderness, the people tried to store up manna & it spoiled b/c that was not God's intent. He wants us to trust Him in every second & moment when we are needy not just when we feel like we need a refresher. We are trusting Him day by day. Pastor Rick always says, "Every day is a good day, but some days are just better than others." How true is that???

Mom sent me this picture of Daddy from therapy this morning & it definitely made me smile! I think will for all of you also. He is making daily victories which we praise God for every step of the journey.

WOW...how far we've come since Friday, April 8!!!! Mom sent me a text just a few minutes ago that Daddy was in Recreation therapy & guy was playing a guitar. She said he was really enjoying that! Please continue to pray for physical, mental, emotional & spiritual strength for all of us. Also, pray for Daddy's blood pressure. Dr. Kiser is working to get his med just right b/c it seems to be staying low which greatly affects his energy level when doing therapy. They need to find that perfect balance for physical safety as well as energy.

This is a great way to start of the week & I'm looking forward to sharing more exciting victories! Thanks once more for your continued prayers & support!

We love you all!

The Road to Recovery

2011-04-17T15:31:00.001-05:00

This is the road is filled with hills, valleys and twists & turns. The journey is different for everyone, but the desired outcome is the same...healing, complete recovery & independence. As you travel this road, you rejoice in every victory & just try to keep putting one foot in front of the other.

On Thursday, Daddy moved to BRI to begin his first stint of rehab. We don't really know how long this part of our journey will last, but probably a couple of weeks. The transition was difficult for several reasons, but things seemed to have smoothed out now. Over the weekend, Mom has raved about the staff (attitude & care). I am so grateful for people who feel called to serve in healthcare positions that are not the most prestigious but could be some o the most important.

Friday was filled with therapy evaluations & a glimpse of what is to come. The BRI facility is amazing & their therapists are incredible. I was able to observe part of his occupational therapy Friday when they were fitting his right arm with a stimulator machine called a BioNess. It fits around his hand & comes up his arm giving shocks/stimulations to the muscles which reminds the brain to start working that part of the body again. His weekend speech therapist has worked with them on singing "Amazing Grace." Mom said he tried to mouth some words but no sounds yet. We just have to remember to be patient!!! He also had a very exhausting time in physical therapy Saturday when they used a "frame" to help him stand. It locks his knees in place & helps him stay upright. He stayed up for 7 minutes which they said was really, really good & were planning on 10 minutes today. I can't imagine how tiring that must be. Makes sense why babies & toddlers sleep so much...learning all this stuff is really hard!

Saturday was a big day for our family since Shawn has Regional Bible Drill & we determined that would be the day for Shawn & Anna Kate to finally go see Grandpa. We all went to Sherwood for the drill & ate lunch with our entire group. Shawn did great & passed the Regional Drill (means of 24 calls he had less than 8 mistakes-he actually only had 4-5). He is qualified for State later this month. It was a great morning & day together. When we finished we ran to Kroger to get some surprises & treats for Grandpa. They picked out vanilla & chocolate pudding (since we couldn't find banana cream in sugar free) & applesauce. Then it was time to head to see Grandpa...

We didn't time our arrival very well since he was just heading to supper. We let the kids entertain themselves for a few minutes & waited in his room. When Mom wheeled him into the room & he saw them, he smiled big! They both hugged & loved on him them showered him with his gifts of food ;-) AK proceeded to dance around for him some & Shawn showed him his new Monster truck he finally found that they had been on a search for during Shawn & Grandpa Days! Daddy seemed to be glad they were there, but at the same time I could tell that it made him sad too that they had to see him not talking to them or doing whatever they wanted! We tried not to overstay our first visit & left when he was ready to get into bed. They thoroughly enjoyed watching the sling & lift which moves him from the chair to the bed. All seemed to have gone well until we were saying our byes & Shawn asked Mom when he was going to get to go home. Of course, we all started crying & that was the first real emotion we have seen from Shawn through all of this. I think the reality of what was happening & him seeing it for himself. We wanted to stop by & see a friend that is also in BRI bc a tree fell on her. Phillis has pretty much everything broken on her right side except her hip. Her daughter, Kris, has been staying with her & they had visited Daddy so we wanted to repay the favor. I'm so thankful that Phillis can encourage Daddy to keep pushing through even when therapy is hard! Mrs. Phillis was one of AK's MDO teachers for about a year when she was a baby so she is pretty special to us!

As we were heading downstairs, Shawn asked if we could walk through the garden. We said yes which was really good for all of us. Just outside the BRI entrance & by the parking lot, there is a beautiful garden area. It is called the Psalm 91 Garden. It is absolutely gorgeous right now with all the azaleas blooming! It was perfect bc we read the marker that was placed with Psalm 91 on it. We definitely needed to hear those words & promises! I took a few pictures of the kids while we were down there. Not really where you would plan a photo session, but I am thankful to catch a few pics of my cuties! They are just from my phone so not great quality, but they make me smile!

How sweet is this with her looking down into the water?

Love all these flowers around Shawn!

I turned around & AK was try to climb on top of the Scripture marker!

She made it!

Well, that was our weekend & now we are getting geared up for this week. It's a short week with Easter next weekend, but I can't believe that April is almost over!! I do have to say that I will not really be sad to see it go! Hope you all had a wonderful weekend & thank you again for your continued prayers! God is faithful & will continue to be each & every day. Thank you for allowing Him to bless us through each of you!

2011-04-14T18:30:00.002-05:00

Today is the day that Daddy is moving to BRI (Baptist Rehabilitation Institute)!!! He is scheduled to be transported at 1:00 p.m. I know several of you are wondering what happened to the early morning post, but I was laying in bed typing on my phone almost half way finished when I accidently erased the entire thing! I actually cried! Writing has been an emotional therapy for me through this process & it just really hurt my feelings that I did that. I’m better now so here we go!

Yesterday, Uncle Ronnie (he would prefer I call him Uncle Ron, but old habits are hard to break…sorryJ) came to visit since he was working in Russellville. While he was here, PT sat Daddy in a chair where he stayed for almost an hour. While Uncle Ronnie was here, Frances came to see Mom. They were able to go sit outside & enjoy the beautiful weather. We have tried to go outside at some point every day since she admits it does make her feel better. And yes, she is eating (for those of you who are keeping tabsJ). Thanks Uncle Ronnie for letting Mom have that time with Frances & to be out of the room. She really appreciated that!

Daddy is continuing to eat more & more every day. He was very anxious for lunch yesterday b/c as soon as I put the tray in front of him he grabbed a spoon & started eating. It is so good to see him wanting to eat & the desire to do it himself. As I have said so many times, this is going to be a physically, emotionally & mentally grueling journey, but we know that God will give each of us the grace & strength for each day. For PT in the afternoon, he was tired from the day that they only helped him stand on the walker a couple of times. We are seeing some small movements in his right leg & I have been told that these weight-bearing exercises are great to stimulate the brain to relearn the movement commands.

Mindy, his speech therapist, was working with him yesterday on saying his numbers. He was moving his mouth to say them, but no sound. She started pointing at me asking him what my name was. He was moving his mouth & trying, but not quite getting it. We have had some pictures of Shawn & Anna Kate for him, but he has been interested in looking at them. Well, Mindy showed him a picture of Anna Kate (it was on top) and he broke down crying. Then I started crying. Mom had stepped out to visit with someone so I told her to get back in here. He calmed down, but it was hard to see that emotion. I know that stroke victims are very emotional & I can’t even imagine how he feels right now not being able to communicate or express himself. Mindy did give us a picture chart so he could point at various things to help him & us. We know we will get there just one day at a time.

I talked with Jessica at their apartment yesterday & she has reserved them a first floor apartment at the beginning of May which is a huge relief for Mom about when he is able to come home. She said that she just had one come available & that she would let them transfer without paying any type of fee! Once again God provided!!!

Just one more thing that you may want to grab a Kleenex for…I have to share a special story. Barbara, a member of the family that I mentioned earlier in this post, shared a prayer that her grandson, Mason, had prayed for Daddy Friday night. His mom told him when he was getting ready for bed that they needed to pray for Mrs. Laurie’s dad b/c he was very sick. He said ok & proceeded to pray. He said, “God” then stopped. His mom reminded him to say his prayers so he could go to sleep. So he said, “God, Mrs. Laurie’s daddy is really sick and please make him better.” He paused for a moment then looked at Holly & said, “God said yes!” The faith of a child! I am so thankful that they shared this story with us. I know that there are lots of prayers from children being said for Daddy & I have to believe that God smiles when a child boldly comes before the throne on behalf of another. What an example to us as adults to never forget that God is in the miracle business & He wants to come to Him with every need.

“Look to the LORD and His strength; seek His face always.” Psalm 105.4

“Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly more than we could think or ask.” Ephesians 3:20

New post coming soon!

2011-04-14T11:04:00.001-05:00

I wanted to let you know that I've multiple technical difficulties. I deleted the first post then decided to write once I got to the hospital & now can't get on blogger :-/

Daddy is transferring to BRI @ 1pm today. I'll get the other post on as soon as I can get online.

Thanks for keeping up & praying!

Next Step

2011-04-13T09:20:00.001-05:00

I've started this post several times last, but brain was way too foggy to put a sentence together last night so I'm trying again this morning. It looks like the big news from Tuesday was that we will be making the next step of our journey to rehab at BRI on Thursday. The BRI admit nurse came for an assessment & visit with Mom about the transition.

BRI is the rehab institute affiliated with Baptist Hospital in Little Rock. I've been visiting church members in BRI for years & the results with patients are amazing! We are praying for the same results for Daddy. This next step of the journey will be a difficult one for many reasons.

While Daddy is in rehab, Mom will not stay with him. This will be the first time ever that he has been in the hospital when she hasn't stayed overnight with him...or ALL the time for a matter of fact. So that will be a huge adjustment for both of them. Also, his therapy will be very intense which will be exhausting as well as frustrating at times. Pastor Rick just keeps reminding us that we are running a marathon not a sprint & to think about where we were Friday. I need to constantly be reminded of both those things! Not very many people can run a marathon without points of frustration, but they set their eyes on the finish line & continue to push through the pain, frustration & fatigue.

We have already seen some frustration with him trying to speak to tell us. We get frustrated since we can't understand and even more so for him! We just keep reminding him that it will just take some time, but he will be able to talk again. He had speech yesterday & his therapist was working with him on making different mouth shapes which he did. He also had PT twice yesterday. He sat assisted on the side of bed in the morning using his right hand to help support himself. Then for PT in the afternoon, his therapist & his nurse actually stood him up on a walker 3 or 4 times to begin that reconnection from his leg to his brain that there's work to be done.

I know I keep repeating myself in saying how much we appreciate everyone, as I've also said words cannot begin to express our gratitude. Thank you for the visits, calls & offers to help with anything.

We are very thankful for every victory...big & small! Please continue to pray for his recovery as well as Mom (Grant & I also) for peace & endurance through this journey. We are taking one day at a time & asking the Lord to let us not miss the lesson in each day. He is in control & we trust Him completely! Thank you to each & every one of you who is praying, calling & offering help. Part of God's faithfulness has been the incredible support system He has surrounded us with. What a blessing!!!

WOW!!!

2011-04-11T21:57:00.001-05:00

Dr. Roy Buckelew, one of our favorite college professors, used to say, "WOW" when he was awed by God's grace & how He was working in people's lives. Today, "WOW" seems the only adequate way to express how we feel about our day. The day began as the past few, except for the rainy drive to the hospital.

Daddy had a very full day today. His day consisted of...
•Physical therapy
•Another hyperbaric chamber treatment (time where he gets 400% oxygen to stimulate the stroke sight)
•Physical therapy...sat with help on the side of the bed for a couple of minutes
•Swallow study
•Multiple doctor's visits & a few other guests

Now here's the exciting parts...
I got another smile this am when I arrived at the hospital while talking to Daddy & holding his hand. We are seeing some small, small movements on the right side. We will take it! Mom spent some time outside during lunch while Daddy was at his chamber treatment. My cousin, Lauren & her sweet baby, Austin, came to visit with us for a while. Thank you Lauren! While we were outside, Sandra came by with some goodies, which have already been enjoyed ;-) Thank you Sandra! We ended up cutting our time outside short bc we saw the doctor pull into the parking lot & we didn't want to miss him making rounds.

All of the excitement started when one of our former music minister's from Magnolia came to see us. We had a wonderful visit w/ Ken & he had just prayed for us when Daddy started to wake up. Ken went to the end of the bed & started talking to him. Daddy smiled at him!!!! We were so excited that he recognized someone he hasn't seen in several years. WOW!!!!

He enjoyed his first meal in several days...mashed potatoes & applesauce. He ate all of his potatoes & at least half the applesauce. While he was eating, we had some friends call to say that they were dropping off some goodies so I went to meet them at the elevator. While I was there, another couple showed up. We stood in the lobby & visited for a while then I told them we could walk down towards the room to so that they could at least hug Mom, but not go in the room. I walked in to tell Mom they were & that she could step out for a minute. Well, what I didn't know was that while I had my back to Daddy, he raised his left & motioned for everyone to come into the room. They came in & as they all said hello he gave Olan the biggest grin! As everyone spoke to him he made grins & smirks when teased! We were absolutely thrilled to have seen such expression of emotion to others. We all prayed & were so thankful for the progress he was making. WOW!!!!

Not long after they left, Dr. Murphy was making rounds. He came in & said that he was thrilled with the fact that Daddy was looking him in the eyes & that he was doing so well. He just couldn't believe it! WOW!!!!

Then within about 15 minutes, Dr. Thomas came in making his rounds. He was equally impressed & pleased with the progress that Daddy is making. We even asked if we were too excited about everything that happened throughout the afternoon & he said absolutely not!!! WOW!!!

All of those were God moments! God has been totally faithful in giving us the grace, patience & peace these past days. Not to say that we haven't had our fair share of tears, anxiety & frustration. We have! We have somewhat taken turns though so that we are able to hold each other up when one is weak. We know that the strength & endurance that we have experienced the past days is from God & Him alone bc He is faithful all the time & the sweet prayers of all of you. I've said it before, but will continue to say that our words are completely inadequate in expressing our appreciation for your calls, texts, visits, goodies & above all, prayers! Please continue to remember our family in your prayers in the days and weeks to come. We are running a marathon, not a sprint so we will be on this journey for a while. We are not guaranteed anything except that God is good, all the time!!! All glory to Him & Him alone.

P.S. Please excuse any missing words or typos...remember I'm sleep deprived!

Miracles

2011-04-10T10:55:00.001-05:00

It seems all too often these days that my plans for the day are not what actually happen...and if you know me very well I like a plan to work! Hello, my name is Laurie & I have control issues. There, now that's out of the way & you understand where I'm coming from.

Mom & Grant (my brother) stayed at the hospital last night with Daddy. I went home to spend time with my family which was much needed. Mom wanted me to go to church & come to the hospital later. I thought that was a good idea also so that was the plan. Well,
Mom had text me a few times & I just knew that I needed to go. Pastor Rick always says "if you have to ask yourself whether to go or not, then go." So I came on to the hospital.

Mom didn't know I was coming so she was surprised! I went over to talk to Daddy. I was holding his hand talking to him when he smiled at me! I about jumped straight off the ground! What a miracle from where we were Friday! I'm glad that I'm here since some special friends of Mom's from Magnolia showed up about 20 after I got here she was able to go out & visit with them while I stayed with Daddy.

He is resting pretty well & still very sleepy so we are trying to stay quiet. The speech pathologist came in yesterday & worked him some. He ate some applesauce for her & drank some water. He will have a swallow study on Monday to get some pictures making sure everything is going down properly. He wasn't too interested in eating this am, but it will happen. He helped bathe himself which was a really good thing!

We are able to see God's hand on everything all day long! God is faithful & we know He will give us the grace & strength to endure the days of this journey. As I reminded Mom this morning, we are not promised tomorrow so we take one day at a time & praise God for all the miracles along the way!

The Next Day

2011-04-09T16:05:00.000-05:00

Yesterday is a day that I would like to quickly forget, but will never likely happen. My dad was scheduled for a routine

heart cath & a couple of stents. He's had these procedures done a couple of dozen times...yes, that many! Everything was as usual until the doctor was getting to place the second stent. A piece of plague broke off from his artery & traveling to his brain...resulting in a massive stroke! His doctor's words were "a big, big stroke!" We were told that death was imminent & there was no hope. God immediately put people in the consultation room with us before Daniel could even arrive from just a few miles up the interstate. People were praying & God was working!

As the day continued & more people came to love, hug & encourage us God continue to cover us with His grace & mercy! I'm saying that I wasn't breathing into a papersack...bc I was! But God was there! Every time the doctor returned he said that things better & not as bad as first expected. He was finally physically stable & moved to a room. We were warned that there was certain damage, but we would not know the extent until he began to awake from the drugs used during the procedures and the stress of the stroke. We were prepared for the worst. Waiting, waiting & waiting is the name of the game at the hospital though.

Dr. Thomas, the neurologist, finally came by the room this afternoon to give us the results from all the reports of the tests. He said his stroke was in the front lobe of the brain. Strokes in this area of the brain cause extreme drowsiness & sleepiness for several days so Dr. Thomas said rest is the best thing for him right now. He didn't even wake him to examine him. He wants him to rest as much as possible!

The wonderful miracle is that Dr. Thomas says frontal lobe injuries are the easiest to recover from & he said that he should regain his speech & movement over time with therapy!!! We have a very long road before us, but God is in the business of working miracles.

We are praising God for His love, grace & mercy! Thank you to everyone for their countless prayers, calls, texts & fb messages. We are trying to respond to everyone, but please understand if it's not immediate. Words cannot begin to express our gratitude for you interceding to the throne for our family!

A Great Friday

2011-02-11T20:57:00.001-06:00

This afternoon, AK & I went to have her fitted for her flower girl dress for Jill & Brandon's wedding in April. She was completely facinated to go to the "dress store." She sat at the desk waiting on our consultant just like a grown-up...even the lady commmetted about how well behaved she was. Trust me, it was her being in pure awe...not her typical behavior in a store. She's not bad, but she just has lots of energy! Ha!

While she was trying on the dress she looked up at me & said, "I'm going to look like Stacy!" She attended our her first wedding a few weeks ago for our student minister, Clay, & his wonderful bride, Stacy! She has been in awe ever since of weddings, pretty princess dresses, and ultimately Miss America! Ha!

Once she came out of the dressing room & saw herself in the mirrors, her real personality came out! She started twirling & singing..."I'm going to be the flower girl! I'm going to be the flower girl!".

Her real dress will be an eggplant with an ivory sash! I can't to see the real one on her!!

Shawn was hanging out @ Nana & Grandpa's while did the girly dress thing so when we got back to place she decided she wanted to spend the night with them tonight...so that meant that I was able to have a date night with my special boy!

We have all been craving Chinese food so we ate China Buffet then headed to Hastings or coffee & Shawn picked out a book for his Valentine's Day gift! Then a quick trip to Wally World.

Now we are on the couch together...Shawn has his book & I'm blogging!!

I would say close to a perfect afternoon...only better if I had had a date with my man in there somewhere!!! Maybe soon!

Laurie

Winter Wonderland

2011-01-10T17:24:00.001-06:00

WOW!!! We were predicted to get a few inches of snow...well, the weather guys finally nailed it on the head this time! We got at least 6 inches! It's crazy!

It started snowing exactly when they said it would Sunday afternoon & immediatly began to stick. It didn't stop snowing until late last night. It was absolutely beautiful & I've loved looking out of front window watching the snow come down.

We've been in & out enjoying the all the white stuff.

It's a lot of work to get a 3 year old dressed & ready to go out. That alone will wear you out, but worth every minute.

Anna Kate & daddy worked on a snowman...well, daddy did most of the work & AK would come over & supervise the work.

Shawn had a rolling down the hill snowball fight with some neighborhood boys & had a blast.

He also decided to build his own snowman & attempt to make a Guiness Book of World Records with the smallest snowman...surprisingly there's not one!

He also combined 2 great loves...

Snow & Sonic Cherry Coke!!! Ha!

All in all it's been a great 2 days...snow, family, chili, red beans & rice, and of course, Sonic!!! Out of school again tomorrow so we will see what a new day holds. We will just try to focus on enjoying it now & not think about the fact that we will have to go longer in June :-(

Happy Snow Day everyone!
Laurie

A Christmas Miracle

2010-12-22T05:13:00.001-06:00

Well.....it actually happened & it was a success!!!!!!!!

We got a picture with BOTH children on Santa'a lap!!!!! Anna Kate has been some kinda serious about Santa this year & NOT in a good way!

Anytime someone will ask her if Santa is coming to see her, she ducks her head & shakes it in a very emphatic "No!" Then they look at me like I'm the evil, wicked step-mother from Cinderella! So then I explain how we really aren't a fan of the "fat man" as Grandpa affectionately calls him...by her choice NOT anyone else's persuasion!!!!

Shawn & my dad have tried relentlessly to persuade her to reconsider, but she is a red-head & boy is she is stubborn!!!! Finally one a day a couple a couple of weeks ago, she informed someone who asked "the" question that "Santa could take her presents to Nana & Grandpa's house then they would bring them to her!" I was shocked!!! She had seriously been very quietly contemplating this entire strange fat man coming into our house while we sleep matter, and she had figured out a way to have her cake & eat it too!

All of that to say, Shawn's choir from church sang at the courthouse last night at the annual Christmas celebration & guess who happened to be there...Santa & Mrs. Claus were perche in the gazebo greeting visitors throughout the evening. AK decided she wanted to go take a peek from the side over the railing. Then I heard the words that almost made me drop her from arms right then & there out of pure shock...."I want to take a picture with Santa!"

I went back to Daniel & we assessed the situation which was that the line was all the way down one sidewalk, around the corner of the hot chocolate & cookie house and down another sidewalk to the street!!!! Now was not the time for an indecisive 3 year old to be calling the shots. I had watched the line & knew that people had been in lime for anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour without even reaching Santa.

We decided that we would walk around to look at all the displays & lights then regroup (have pix on camera for another time). Well, the entire time AK talked about taking a picture with Santa, taking a picture with Santa, and on & on! So what's a Daddy to do except get in line knowing that he's about to spend an hour of his life wasted standing in line to see Santa & have his little girl run in terror.

We had not planned very well & didn't eat before we went. We had no idea that this was the happening place to be in town! So as people were beginning to unravel due to fatigue & lack of nuritionment I took the kids to drive thru "Old Mac Donald's" as it's known at our house, well because it's Benton & that is the closest place to downtown :-p

We went back to have a picnic in the car as AK says to wait for news to approach the target. Daniel text that he had rounded the corner which was our cue to move. Then that he was getting close to the steps so we took off. Thankfully she was still saying, "I want to take a picture w/ Santa."

We only had to wait maybe 5 minutes with Daniel in line which I am very grateful to my husband for! The little boy in front of us seemed to have similar feelings about the fat man as AK & didn't want any part of the experience so I stood in front of AK so she wouldn't see him crying & thrashing about to give her any ideas. Finally, it was our turn...Shawn jumped right up on his lap since he has never had a fear of anyone or anything dressed up! I picked AK up & sat her on Santa's lap and....she smiled!!!!!! She looked up at him & began telling him what she wanted for Christmas! We were taking pictures like nobody's business!!!!

Daniel & I were both I'm shock...think I still am! Ha!

So for not blogging for a few, ok several months, I thought this was a pretty good story to come back with!

Merry Christmas everyone!!!!!!

I'm a BIG girl now!!!!

2010-05-24T18:58:00.001-05:00

I think we officially have a BIG girl on our hands...panties for 6 days straight!!!!! YAY!!!!

AK told me Tuesday morning when getting dressed that she wanted "to wear big girl panties today!". She did & went all day in the potty w/ no accidents! One accident Wednesday & one Thursday then dry yesterday & today! She asks everyone "you so proud of me?" It's so cute!!!!

I'm thrilled to say the least that we have finally reached this milestone. Everyone says girls are so much easier than boys & potty-train sooner...NOT true in our case. Shawn was so easy & basically no accidents. Just went to the potty & that was it & just over 2. Well, AK on the other hand, she's 2 1/2 & has been fighting using the potty. I really was beginning to think she might go to kindergarten in a diaper...that's how strong-willed she's been about the potty!

It's been a very long weekend around here so we spent Saturday night hanging out at home & Shawn enjoying him some Wii time. Shawn had 2 games & they won both (even though I wasn't there to cheer him on). Go Yankees & Braves!!!! I've spend Friday & Saturday at church for a ladies scrapbooking & quilting weekend to raise money for the bus we are taking to Children's camp in Siloam Springs. It's so exciting b/c we are taking 40 children to camp...maybe the largest number & had no way to get there! What a great problem to have! We've chartered a big coach bus so the kids think they are as cool as their older siblings!!!

I'm so exciting about exiting the diaper phase but it also reminds me that AK (and Shawn) are growing so so quickly! I'm loving every minute of it though! I had a very sweet friend tell me when AK was born to embrace each phase & think about what I was missing from the past but wonderful things God had for the present time! I've tried to remember that godly wisdom & am just thankful God has blessed our family with healthy children that grow.

Off to the ballpark once again!

All my ducks in one basket together

2010-05-16T22:29:00.001-05:00

After our crazy busy past few days, we were able to sleep in Saturday morning...til 8! In AD (after diapers) time, that's sleeping in!!!! Shawn actually slept til 8:30, I was jealous!

Since Shawn's baseball games had been cancelled in the anticipation of bad weather we decided to go to the River Market Farmers Market for some fresh fruit & veggies. We had a pretty time together, but AK was still not herself (I think the reeling affects of the versad from Friday). The kids played @ Peabody Park for a while & had a blast. It's a great very natural play area of slides, tunnels, climbing holes & rock wall which explains why I have no pictures bc between me & Daniel we were trying to keep eyes on both kids plus I was still worried about AK not being completely steady on her feet.

Then we headed to the market area and found corn on the cob, new potatoes, green beans & cantalope. Only problem is that somewhere in the process we lost the green beans...I was SO mad!!! We had lunch @ The Flying Fish in the River Market @ Shawn's request for gumbo. Daniel was happy too bc he enjoyed some mudbugs (boiled crawfish)...some of his favs!!!! AK enjoyed chicken, fries, crackers & a chocolate cupcake! ;-)

After lunch, we walked to the Peabody Hotel to see the ducks. Shawn has seen them several times, but AK never had. She LOVED it!!!

Shawn started doing duck calls & so AK decided to join in! Haha!

Both were amazed by the 20 floor glass elevators as well. We did go for a short ride before heading out & they loved it!

We had a great morning together & AK seemed to be getting back to normal before bed tonite!

Hope everyone had a great weekend!

Laurie

Glad It's The Weekend

2010-05-14T17:26:00.001-05:00

The past 48 hours have been a whirlwind...literally! This is a long post b/c it's pretty amazing what you can do in a matter of 48 hours when you barely sleep & you have a mom who likes to talk writing about her children.

We got up Thursday before the crack of dawn to meet at church for a staff outing to a St. Louis Cardinals game! It was me, Daniel & Shawn plus twenty other staff & some of their familes. We drove up, enjoyed the game even though they lost, ate dinner @ Lambert's Cafe, Home of Throwed Rolls in Sikeston, MO then begrudgingly began our way home!!!! We pulled in a bit before midnight, but everyone was safe & had a blast!!!!! Boy, we are all exhausted though!

To top it off, Daniel & I were up this morning AGAIN before the crack of dawn to head to Arkansas Children's Hospital for Anna Kate to get her second set of tubes. AK spent the night w/ my parents since we had our day of insane travel so we picked her up about 6:15 & she was WIDE AWAKE playing computer games...working the mouse herself!

We headed to the hospital only following a complete meltdown over a gingerbread man w/ a broken leg that she didn't understand why she couldn't eat!!! So sad, she quickly forgot when we let her play on the playground at the hospital before we checked in.

The hospital check in was a pretty smooth process except AK is apparently too fashionalbly conscious to wear the yellow surgery pants & top so she sported the topless version...it's still G rated!

She found multi-use for the phone by using it a phone to talk w/ Mickey Mouse! She did well with everything & a little before 9 they gave her some Versad and then the real entertainment began. I know it is very sad to have enjoyed the entertainment brought by a 2 1/2 year old on a mind-altering prescription med but after you've only had 5 hours of sleep in 48 hours it doesn't take much!

Once she got the med, every time she moved it was in SLOW motion & became a limp noodle.

This was the sweet face we said good bye to as they wheeled her into the OR suite. We kissed her & said bye then she just looked up at the nurse like oh I'm going with you!

She was back only about 10 minutes most!!! Dr. Ritcher was pleased wih how everything went well. He also drew blood for some lab work to check her immune system since she has literally has a runny nose every day of of her life for the past 2 years despite all kinds of allergy meds & nose sprays. He said we would get hose results @ her post-op appointment in a few weeks.

She came out of surgery pretty well & only cried until they brought her some apple juice & when she saw one of the monitor leads on her chest which she promptly just grabbed then pulled off herself...can you say ouch? Then she downed 2 cups of juice looked at the nurses & said "I need more please." One of our sweet nurses was a friend of ours Shannon. She was amazing & we were so thankful for that surprise blessing of a precious Christian nurse whom we knew! When we asked AK if she was ready to leave she told me twice "No, not yet!!!" Who wouldn't want to stay with all the attention she was getting not to mention the princess service & wonderful meds?!?!?

We made one last stop at the playground before leaving then on our way to the van AK realized that he never received her "pink popsicle" the nurse told her she would get after surgery. She was devastated. We calmed things over with a trip to Purple Cow b/c she had ready asked if we could go there @ 6 this am. She ate chips & ketchup then again realized no "pink popsicle." She will definitely be getting one tonight!

Well, we have all napped & ready for a quite night! I'll post pictures of the ballgame this weekend...plus more of photograph adventure last weekend soon!

Happy Weekend Everyone!!!

Laurie

Weary Wednesday

2010-05-12T10:34:00.000-05:00

AK & I are laying on the couch relaxing bc we are both under the weather! I had a very sore throat yesterday & started running fever last night...yuck! And it's not just allergies!!! I'm going to the doctor this afternoon & will be glad to get some good meds to kick this stuff!

As I was laying in bed last night struggling to breathe & pretty much miserable, I hear a soft thumping then have Anna Kate informing me that she "choked" up. Yep, she did all in het bed so I cleaned her & Daniel cleaned the bed! She hasn't had any fever so I really think he did just get gagged...that's actually a fairly common occurance for AK!

We just need to stay well enough to get her tubes put in on Friday & I have to be well enough for a very long day trip to St. Louis tomorrow for a Cardinals game! Our staff is taking the day & traveling to St. Louis for a fun day! I'm so excited!

After we took Shawn to school, I needed a DP so we went to Sonic! I haven't been once this week & it's Wednesday! When we got there, she informed me that she needed chicken & since she didn't eat dinner I decided to indulge her. He joined me in the front seat to eat her chicken & yell at the random man 3 spaces down from us! Yes that is correct, she started yelling "guy, guy!" to some man in a truck who was working very hard to not look her direction which only encouraged her more!

She finished her chicken & cuddled back up in her seat with her giggle baby & "cobers."

Happy Wednesday everyone!!!!

Laurie

New Month...New Post

2010-05-07T18:57:00.000-05:00

Well, it's about time I update this blog! Needless to say April was VERY busy month! Today was Shawn's spring field trip for school & we went to Little Rock to see the new Disney movie Oceans. The movie was amazing!!! I could have done without some of their statements & ideas regarding creation, but it was a great opportunity to remind Shawn of who God is & what He did in creating our amazing earth! Uncle Grant joined us at the movie then afterwards we headed to the Purple Cow for lunch. Ashley, Anna Kate & mom met us there. Yummy, yummy for the hot fudge shake that I enjoyed!

After lunch, Uncle Grant headed to work so we ventured to North Little Rock to The Old Mill for some photo opps. We got some great ones! After The Old Mill, we went to a local park & pond for some more fun. These pictures are from just The Old Mill. I'll share the park & pond hopefully later this weekend.

I'm so glad we got some great photos of our precious children. Hope everyone enjoys!

Are we finished yet???

Weekend Away

2010-04-01T16:02:00.000-05:00

This past weekend, Daniel & I had the opportunity to go away for a few days alone...well, over 750 technically! We attended a FamilyLife Weekend to Remember Marriage Conference in Branson, Missouri. It was an absolutely wonderful time just the two of us though!

Something really fun happened while at the conference. After one of the sessions, I noticed a name tag & recognized the name & she looked REALLY familiar b/c I read her blog all the time! We ended up next to each other on the escaltor so I worked up the courage to say "I just have to ask...are you Sarah Martin?" She said, "Yes" to which I responded "I read your blog!" We both became somewhat giddy. She was so sweet to visit with & I was so excited to meet my first blogging friend. We saw each other again on Sunday & were able to get a picture together.

Thank you Sarah for being so gracious to a new blogger who has been reading all about your life for the past few months. It was so good to meet you!

We were also able to visit with some very dear friends in Fayetteville before heading to Branson. We spent Thursday & part of Friday with the Francis' and her family, which we greatly enjoyed! They took us to some great eating places b/c she knows that is my favorite pastime! We enjoyed wonderful grilled cheese sandwiches & soup @ Hammomtree's; the excitement of the Catfish Hole then amazing frozen yogurt from the Orange Mango! WOW!!! Seriously though, more than anything we so enjoyed our time together catching up as well as giving me time to love on sweet Brody! Love that boy!

A special thank you to my parents for keeping our children for this wonderful time away!!! We truly appreciate all they do for us.

Hope everyone has a wonderful Easter & time with family celebrating our RISEN Savior!

Blessings this Easter!

He is RISEN!!!!

Fancy Nancy

2010-03-20T11:15:00.001-05:00

Anna Kate pulled out her dress up stuff & then decided to be the photographer instead of the model.

Happy Saturday everyone!!!

Laurie

Random Thoughts for the Week

2010-03-18T22:25:00.001-05:00

I've planned on updating every day this then just haven't gotten around to it. Ill blame it on tje time change. I'm sure that has something to do with it...that's the reason for everything that goes wrong this week right??? Here's our week in a brief nutshell...

Sunday was RA Race Day when the boys build their wooden derby cars then race them. We had a hot dog lunch & the lunch money went to Dixsonville Baptist Church (same church that had the garage sale on Saturday). The boys raised over $400!!! We were so excited! Pics of race day will follow bc guess who forgot the camera??? Not that it would have mattered. We were expecting about 75 or maybe 100 people...we had about 150! It was WILD & CRAZY buy wonderful! Here is a sneak peak of the leaders getting the track ready when we were setting up Saturday!

I took a MHD (Mental Health Day) on Monday. I was looking forward to staying home all day ALONE in a very clean house...except for laundry. So, what did I actually do???? I took Shawn to school then dropped AK off at Stephanie's...quiet day @ home, right? Wrong! Shawn needed to go to the doctor so I called and surprisingly I got an appt for 9:20 so I went back & picked Shawn up from school to head to the doctor.

We were able to actually see our doctor on her first back in the office after maternity & medical leave from her daughter's heart surgeries. We were so glad to see her back in her normal environment & being happy to be there. We've prayed so hard for baby Brooklyn to be healthy! Praise the Lord!

When we left the doctor, I told Shawn we would run one errand since we were in Little Rock then I wouldtake him to lunch. Well, he decided he was hungry so we went across the street to MiMi's Cafe for "brunch." We enjoyed a great breakfast together...Shawn discovered he liked omelettes! Also, here's the proff that he enjoyed some chocolate chip pancakes too!

So after breakfast, we ran a few errands still with the intention of Shawn going back to school. Well, we ended up doing more & more so he never went back. Oh well, we had a great time & he can make up school work! In Penney's, Shawn picked out a swimsuit for me...what do y'all think????

Hate to confess, but I never tried it on! Not sure why??? Just kidding. I know exactly why!

On Tuesday, Shawn had his first baseball practice. They had a great practice & I think their little team looks pretty good! Pics of that to come also.

Here's AK's newest cute hairdo...

Shawn came home from church last not feeling very well & running 99 temp. He never got sick so I think it was probably the 2 cinnamon twists & piece of Mississippi Mud Cake that he had when he got home from school!

This afternoon, we played outside when I got home from church. The Bradford Pear tree stink so so bad!!! And my eyes itch! Then we ended the evening with Chick-A-Fil-A as AK calls it!

Decisions decisions about tomorrow...whether to send Shawn to school or not??? Today was Parent-Teacher conference & we recieved a good report. Also his teacher told me she's out tomorrow so for me to use my discretion!

Have a wonderful weekend everyone! Going to rest my brain since the benedryl has kicked in!!!

Busy Day

2010-03-13T13:58:00.001-06:00

Today has been a very busy day at our house. Everyone has had chores...some more than others. Daniel & I are hosting dinner at our house tonite for some new parents from church who will soon be partiipating in our Baby & Family Dedication Service next month. We've been busy all week getting ready & I used the opportunity to clean out lots of stuff too!!!

My friend, Ashley, who works with me & her husband, Brent, had put together a large garage sale for the little churh where he is pastoring. They asked people to donate their items & they're having the sale in our church's bus barn. The last report was that they were having a really good morning...YAY!!!! They ate raising money for these children & youth to go to camp this summer! So Brent came & loaded up a bunch of stuff which helped us all!

I've been a little overwhelmed this week preparing in my mind for tonite so what did I do???? Started a new project!!!! I painted this bookcase that came from Wal-Mart black. It looks completely different. I forgot the before but just imagine a $30 bookshelf that's probably 15 years old & you'll get the picture.

I'm very pleased!!!!

Here's a picture of one of the tables...again, very please. The pictures are terrible bc like I have time to download real ones & pull of dinner for 12!!!

Hope everyone is having a wonderful weekend! Pictures of the children will be next time ;-)

Laurie

Die Hard Fans

2010-03-06T20:48:00.001-06:00

Today is an very important day...at least for my boys! Tonite is the Duke & North Carolina game. Daniel & I had talked about going to Hot Springs to eat at Buffalo Wild Wings & watch the game, but them we just decided to stay in town since we had spent most of the afternoon cleaning. We went to eat Chinese food then head home for the game.

Needless to say at this point in the game, their loyalty & enthusiasm isn't helping their team much...they're losing by more than twenty points. They look good regardless!

Anna Kate is sporting her Carolina shirt too, but her eye matches team colors just as well as her shirt!

She fell at the park on Thursday so it is making it's way through a rainbow of colors. We have laughed b/c she has perfect eye makeup! She has told everyone she sees what happened as she poits to her eye then pokes her finger on the spot...OUCH!!! She keeps doing it so it must not hurt too bad?!?!

It's been an absolutely beautiful day so I hope you've enjoyed your day. It's been a good Saturday...just not long enough!

Laurie

Pajama Party!

2010-03-05T11:33:00.000-06:00

I had mentioned our Preschool Pajama Party & wanted to share a few pictures of the evening. We had such a good time!!! It's one of my favorite events. I'll try not to go into picture overload, but definitely have to share some sweet pictures of my friend, Sara's babies & their family since they were able to join us for this special night. She has been waiting very patiently all week for me to get these pictures posted. I've been having some picture loading issues so a HUGE Thank You to Jennifer for getting me fixed! YAY!

This Saras daughter, Lilly!

My wonderful husband came to help out so he & Lilly's DeDe served up breakfast while Lilly's grandpa cooked the french toast sticks & bacon...YUM!

Sara & baby Reid

Me & Miss Lilly

Lilly & her DeDe shaving!

Ella & Brooks

What a wonderful date night when both kids spend the night at grandparents???

We went to eat REAL breakfast food afterwards @ Cracker Barrell...per husbands request for his help :-)

(Kinda hard to see, but my new jammies have coffee & tea on them...maybe that's why I like the pj party is b/c I get new jammies?!?!) We had a great night though & I am so glad that everyone else had fun too!

Have a great weekend everyone! Will have more stories about our crazy family this weekend!

New look!

2010-03-04T21:27:00.001-06:00

As you can tell, I have a new blog look. I don't think I'm finished yet bc I would like to add some black & white pictures, but it will have to be a work in progress! It's been a very long day! However, it felt very good to actually start & finish a small project! This was a big deal for me to change the background & set a new banner since Jennifer had set my blog up to begin with! I didn't have a clue but it wasn't too bad!

I was exhausted ghis afternoon so I declared that someone else was cooking dinner! Shawn said TaMolly's so that's where we went! It was good but sometimes it's too much work to go out! I'm still thinking that AK may be working on an ear infection bc she can't get enough of the passy! She's been doing really well but I think the sucking must relieve some pressure in her ears?!?!?

Mom took the kids to the park this afternoon after school & they had a blast with the dirt to prove it! Here's a picture of AK's socks...no kids just dirt! Couldn't get AK to cooperate for a picture of her face & Shawn's a little old to take bath pictures;-)

She also fell & hit her eye. She kept telling everyone "I fall & hit my eye right here" then she points & POKES the purple knot! I just keep telling her to stop poking it! Shawn was covered literally from head to toe! They both had to bathe before we could go eat!

So that's the brief summary of the day! I'm headed to attempt a meeting with Mr. Sandman! Wish me luck!

Happy almost Friday everyone!!!!

Laurie

3 a.m. Ramblings

2010-03-04T04:22:00.001-06:00

Yes, I know it's 3 am & trust me I wish I was sleeping!!!! Mr. Sandman & I will be having a meeting soon to discuss his inconsistent work habits. I've just been very restless the past few nights & I think my brain is racing at sonic speed even when I'm trying to sleep.

Things at church hve been good but crazy...and as my assitant keeps reminding me "you scheduled all this!". Yes, so true & I'm making everyone suffer along w/ me :-). Not really & please don't think she's is being disrespectful...totally not the case! He's worried about us! Last Monday, was our annual Father-Daughter Banquet. It was a wonderful evening & everything went well. We then had our Preschool Pajama Party on Friday nite! That one is not so much work as it is fun! Wearing your pjs to work, eating French toast sticks & bacon (one my personal food groups), spiking hair w/ 1982 gel, putting on makeup & little boys shaving their faces using popsicle sticks...excuse me, I believe the appropriate pc term is craft stick!

I'll hopefully upload pictures of the PJ Party tomorrow. My friend, Sara, & her family came into town to visit her husband's so they brought Lillly & Reid to join the fun! Lilly & Reid's gramdparents & great aunt are a huge part of our Preschool ministry so they were all there It was so good to see them & I know she's dying for me to post pictures. I promise TODAY as soon as I get Ashley's camera!!!!

To top it off, Sunday we hosted a Preschool Ministry Shower asking for some new items for our Preschool ministry. I am amazed & overwhelmed at te generosity of our people! They are still bringing in gifts & money. It's wonderful! I can't wait to go shopping! So as you can tell life is never boring & as our pastor says "Welcome to church work!" I love the ministry God has given me, but do miss my family when it gets crazy! My heart & mind have also been heavy since last week for some very sweet friends who were about to have the first anniversary of their son's entry into the arms of Jesus. It's been a long year for them & their family as you can only imagine. I have been praying for them as they navigate these waters. I was at the hospital the day Max died & that day will ever be etched in my memory & my heart! His tiny life making such an impact on so many people & how his family has strived to glorify God through their heartache. Their life mantra during that time & remains "Live to the Max!" That's what I want to do is live to the max for the Lord!!!! I'm so thankful that God places me in people's lives to walk journeys with them but to also teach me & bless me along the way!

On the family front, Shawn is doing well & ready for baseball to start. His team wa having trouble finding a field for practice bc of some weird field renting rules, see I know exactly what's going on, but I think they have that square away now. Anna Kate is ok...I think! My friend, Kay, had agreed to keep her yesterday for a few hours while her regular sitter, Stephanie, had her pregnancy glorious glucose test. Well, let's just say we were @ Kay's for about 10 minutes & she managed to yak 4 times in 4 different locations! Yep...and they all had the virus last week!!! So I quicky kept moving her from one spot to another when we threw up, or choked up as she says, which led to the 4 spots & finally the garage steps w/ a plastic container! We came on back home where she got "comfy" out of jeans into some akin tight leggings...we hve differing opinions on comfort! Never another epipisode!!!! She was fine the rest of the day!!!! 2 boxes of raisens, cheetos, a lunchable & a bottle of water in a matter of a couple of hours! Kay & I agree we don't think it was the bug bc it didn't have the bug smell, I know tmi for some. She always has lots of drainage so I think she just didn't have food on her stomach & she had drank some tea. Go ahead lecture me on that one but the girl likes her some sweet tea!!!! She had breakfast in her backpack but never made it that far. She's in bed w/ us now & has been very restless so we may be visiting the doc tomorrow to check her ears. We go see our ENT next Thursday so I was hoping to make it til then without another ear infection so we'll see.

Ok, so it's now 4 & I've written every rambling thought in my head so I'm going to see if I can now get a little more sleep before I have to get up. It's Thursday Prayer day so my prayer girls will be here @ 6:30!!!

Just a little picture to make you smile & see why I don't wear leggings & a t-shirt...my red shoes make the outfit complete, don't ya think???? Don't think she's really sick either!

Happy Thursday everybody!!! It's mh Friday, except tomorrow nite I get to go the PROCLAIM (our name for Bible Drill) Scavenger Hunt...whoo hoo!!!! What doesn't sound like fun about that....eating pizza, reciting Scripture (guess that should be first on the fun list), singing Mr. Shea's silly songs & running the ENTIRE church in the dark w/ just a flashlight & a group of friends (and adults, of course)!!!! I'm in!

It's That Time of Year

2010-02-20T22:02:00.001-06:00

Spring is just around the corner so it's the beginning of baseball season at our house. Shawn is going to play on a team in Little Rock this season so I'm anxious & excited at the same time...I'm not big on change! ;-) However, Daniel found out this week that is head coach is a guy that is a wonderful Christian who Daniel greatly respects. That is HUGE so I believe that's an affirmation having Shawn in the right place!!!

We've had beautiful weather here for he past few days with almost like spring temperatures so Shawn has been wanting to play some ball. Today was pretty cloudy but the boys got out for some ball practice. (Daniel took pictures w/ his phone so they're not wonderful, but they'll work.)

Yesterday, Anna Kate & I spent the morning at church setting up for Father-Daughter Banquet this Monday nite. She was GREAT so when we finished we went to her favorite place, Chik-A-Fil-A ( as she calls it). She ate well & played hard. Nana was with us, and when we finished we decided to make a stop at Old Navy & Target. Don't I look cute?!?!

Anna Kate enjoyed shopping too, but being so good ALL day long can really wear a girl out...this is how she was when we got to school to pick Shawn up. She fell asleep literally in mid-sentence...poor baby!

My week was busy (banquet prep, GA Lock-In & lots of loving on some hurting people) & will continue with banquet Monday then our Preschool Pajama Party is this coming Friday nite so I enjoyed being home with my family today for some special time of watching Olympics & relaxing! Watching the Olympics is really making me want to go skiing but after broomball a few weeks ago I think this body would greatly revolt! Well, Sunday's coming early so I'm hitting the sack.

Hope everyone is having a wonderful weekend!

Laurie

What day is it???

2010-02-11T21:34:00.000-06:00

My days are so very confused with the snow days this week then throw in "Valen-days" as Anna Kate calls it! Yesterday felt like Monday, but a very long Monday since it was Wednesday nite @ church. Daniel left church when we did to go watch the Tarheel vs Dook game w/ Uncle Kerm & we headed to Walgreens for Valentines since I hadn't really found I liked @ WM. We hit the jackpot for Shawn & Anna Kate.

Can you guess which ones belong to which child????

So we got home & had baths then AK & I worked on cards while Shawn did homework. I was so proud of AK doing her valentines. She would "write" on each one hand it back to me then say "who next?".

She did LOTS bc it was for her class & she also did cards for all the ladies who work in the office. She was so proud to pass them this morning. Shawn worked hard on his too & this was the first year I haven't helped Shawn do his. He's growing up!!!!

I was absolutely exhausted this afternoon when I got home so we went out to dinner. First it was to be Mexican, but changed to Chinese. Both are my favs so I was happy either way!

Shawn with his plate of noodles! He LOVES those!!!!

Anna Kate doesn't really eat so I looked over & this is what she was doing!

Shawn & I always end our Chinese buffet dinner w/ ice cream comes & fortune cookies!!!

Anna Kate's meal consisted of 3 bites of sweet n sour chicken & ice cream! There's 4 food groups in there somewhere right????

We all had ice cream & I started laughing bc Daniel ALWAYS eats chocolate pudding when he eats buffet!!! We all have out preferences.

We all shared out fortunes...which were really good & I even brought them home to share, but they are in the van & it's REALLY cold outside so I'm not going back out!!!

Even though tomorrow is Friday, it's a big day...I'll serve @ the Senior Adult Valentine's Banquet for lunch, Shawn's school Valentine's party @ school & then Kids' Night Out (if we don't get snowed in again) so hitting the sack!

Happy Valen-days everyone!!!

Laurie

Second try

2010-02-08T17:18:00.001-06:00

This is the second time I've tried to blog about today & apparently I fell asleep te first time pushing the button unbeknownst to me erasing everything I had done! So here it goes again...

We were rather surprised to wake up to quite a bit of SNOW!!!! Not ice but just snow! I didn't sleep well so turned the TV on in the middle of the nite to wake up to the discussion of winter weather, traffic due to the winter weather, and all the other conversations that occur when AR receives any type of winter precipitation. They quickly started closing schools all around us then before I knew there we were! Turn off the alarm & go back to sleep!

The kids were so so excited when they woke up! They couldn't wait to go outside. Here are a few pictures of our winter fun!!!

Anna Kate was the boy from A Christmas Story..."I can't put my arms down!"

I put my gloves on her bc she didn't have any! I know, I know...she will have some next year!

Eating snow from Clay's yard!!!

Trying to catch snowflakes!

I'll post more pictures later from the real camera, but these are just from my phone (had to be careful w/ the camera bc it would go from snow to rain in second literally). We had so much fun playing together, especially throwing snowballs!

Happy Snow Day!!!

Laurie

An Eventful Friday...

2010-02-06T13:44:00.001-06:00

While Anna Kate was at therapy Friday morning, from 8-9, I ran to WM (Wal-Mart) to see if they could "quickly" change the bulb in my headlight. Of course it could be fast...it was going to be over 2 hours so what's a girl to do???? Go inside to see hah she can find to buy! Well, let's just say that I hit the WM jackpot for a 20 minute trip!!!

I was so excited to share my finds!!! It's just took me a while to have the time to blog & show them off...more on that later.

Here are my 4 tops for only $29!!!!!

Fun & flirty...so versatile bc it can be worn all year (black under when old & w/out when warm.)

Whimsical & sassy...also versatile for the same reasons, except that I would wear a tank under when warmer since it virtually see-thru.

Hello Summer...the perfect camp shirt w/ long jean shorts & my other favorite find of the day, new shoes!

Won't that be fun???? I wore the shoes last nite & LOVE them! They're so comfortable! I've been having shoe envy for a while w/ these shoes so it was not really an impulse purchase.

Last clothing find was this sweater...goes with everything!

So following my eventful shopping spree, I pick up Anna Kate & we return to WM for a few necessities. As we walked down one aisle, she said to me "you not need that". What has your daddy been teaching you????

Then we stopped by to pick Nana up from preschool so we could all go eat lunch w/ Shawn at school. AK decided that there are some perks to the teacher being your nana. She helped mom play color & shape bingo. Mom would hand her a card & call it out then AK would repeat it to the class then hold it out showing each child so they can make to know the call. It was so sweet! Her class just loves AK & AK thinks she's as old as the other kids!

We joined Shawn for lunch to inclue the usual "will you check me out this afternoon?" "we've finished all our work." "all we have left is boring stuff.". Well, I'm hoping that he actually went back to class bc I left him in the hallway since AK decided to throw a protest right in the middle of the hallway where I had to just walk away hoping she would finally come running...she did ;-)!!!

Needless to say it was naptime! Last nite the kids went to spend the nite w/ my parents while I took a group of children to the Little Rock Skatium for 4 1/2 exciting hours of roller skating, ice skating & broomball!!! Can I just say that I am TOO old for broomball??? If you would affrmation of being out o shape just play a little broomball...it will remind you quickly! I was fine once I found my place as the goalie since the ball rarely made it's way that far! We had a blast & managed to leave w/ all body parts intact & none broken!!! I was wondering what possessed us to do broomball when the guy is warning about being careful w/ your sticks to not knock out teeth, etc.

Well, that was Friday! It was crazy but fun! Great start to the weekend!

Laurie

A Christian Dinner & Movie

2010-02-04T21:58:00.001-06:00

After Daniel & I went to see The Blind Side, we've talked about me taking Shawn to see it so that we could use it as a learning experience in his faith & helping him see how truly blessed he is. So...I surprised him by picking him up from school & we were off to the movie. It was the perfect movie day since it has rained ALL day long!

We had popcorn, Dr. Pepper & Nerds (Shawn did anyway). It was the two of us and another couple in the theater so it was great! He LOVED it!!! We've had some good conversation already & I'm looking forward to more. Daniel asked him what his favorite part was & he said when he pushed number 66 all the way off the field towards the bus! (you remember that scene if you've seen the movie). What can I say he is 8??? And in case you're wondering, I cried AGAIN!

After the movie, we picked up Daniel & Anna Kate for a trip to the Holy Chicken or Chick-Fil-A as the rest of the world knows it. The kids loved playing after dinner too. We're having some eating issues w/ Anna Kate so we told her she had to eat before she could play. This meant that she repeated her mantra the entire we ate...Eat my chicken french fries then I play. Eat my chicken french fries then I play. And on & on!!!

She actually did eat pretty well so they were off to play. We ended w/ ice cream cones & headed home. Shawn & I did homework while Daniel got AK to sleep.

All in all I would consider today a great day!!! Love spending time w/ the family!

Laurie

It's Wednesday!!!

2010-01-27T20:56:00.001-06:00

Wednesdays are always LONG days at our house with church & it is usually later when I get home. Thankfully today my Daddy took me to lunch so I had great energy to get through the day. I love going to lunch with my Daddy.

Tonite when I got home Shawn was getting out of the shower & told me that he had something for me. He then kept asking me if I wanted a glass of milk...hint, hint. I told him that I needed dinner first since I didn't have time to eat at church. So my little man told me to go sit down & he would fix my dinner!!! I tried to help walk him through it a little bit, but he REALLY wanted to do it on his own. He continued fixing my dinner, brought it to me on the couch & brought me my milk...he even sat on the couch with me while i ate. What a man?!?! I love this boy! I pray God continues to grow him into a godly young man!

(Sorry for the poor picture quality but I just used my phone.)

Can't finish this nite letting you think that we are the family in a Norman Rockwall painting. Lately, Anna Kate has started throwing some crazy fits! So tonite was no different. She screamed blooding murder when Daniel carried her out of my office at church to go home & then has been screaming while in bed. She's yelling for me which is REALLY hard to take & not just go to her, but that just creates a bigger issue when she throws the fit then gets her way! I'm sure I sound cold hearted but we are well into the terrible twos & we just have to stand firm (which is really hard on Wednesdays since my days are so long). Sounds like maybe Daddy has won this battle! It's actually quiet in the house now. Hopefully it lasts!

Good Night All!!!

Laurie

Happy Birthday Shawn Douglas!

2010-01-23T23:00:00.001-06:00

Shawn Douglas Cox - January 23, 2002

Well...eight years ago at this time I was just getting into a wheelchair from lying flat on my back from a spinal block for my c-section & Shawn was on oxygen & many other machines in the NICU.

Shawn has always had a good appetite so when the doctor said "He's got his mouth wide open!" it was an epiphany & also what led to his adventure with neonatology. He sallowed aminotic fluid & created some pretty serious lung issues for himself. Little by little over the years, I've realized how serious his situation was but not truly until Anna Kate was born & we had a normal scenario did it really, really hit me!!!? That's a lotta wires & machines!!!!! But God was gracious to us and he recovered quickly to be released from the hospital 6 days after he was born.

We are truly blessed to be Shawn's parents!!!! He is a wonderful young man of God & I can't wait to see how God uses him. We are extrememly thankful to know that he belongs to the Lord, and he really does want to do right...just struggles sometimes?!?!? Don't we all!!!!

Shawn has had a big 2 days!!! Yesterday, he & Daniel started the day with Donuts for Dad @ school (sorry no pics) then AK & I checked him out for lunch @ Burger Shack.

Back to school for a little while then I picked him up along w/ 2 friends for a birthday sleepover. Another friend would also join us @ the house. Fed the hungry boys pizza...which between the 4 of them they ate 2 pizzas!!!! Then it was off to bowling! (picture confession...forgot the big camera but it was so so dark & also disco nite so pictures just weren't in the cards). Here's one try for a photo w/ the phone...

Shawn & Max

Back home for chocolate iced brownies & presents followed by some Wii & Alvin & the Chipmunks!!! I know, I know, you're just so jealous right now you can't stand it!!! Please try to control your anger bc I'm so lucky!

After just a few hours of sleep (which I don't do well), these boys were up by 6 to start again. Chocolate Chip Scones & Hot Chocolate for breakfast then time to go home! We really didn't kick them out the door, but they all had plans!

Then it was off to Little Rock for a day of fun! We met my parents & brother for lunch @ Genghis Grill (Mongolian BBQ) then off to search a pair of Puma shoes, their present for Shawn. We didn't have to search too hard...found them @ the mall then off to get him a haircut & to buy mom a new phone. We were going to eat dinner out, but Shawn got puney (spelling???) on us so we headed home & drove thru Chick-Fil-A. He did perk up a little bit, but I feel certain we'll be going to see the doctor by Wednesday!

Mom had made him a cake based on his description...chocolate cake with green icing & white lines like a football field. Here's the outcome from her adventure w/ Anna Kate....

Anna Kate was in charge of placing the footballs & my dad made the goal posts! They all did a great job!!! We brought it home & Shawn had a small piece before bed.

That pretty much recaps the day. Hope you enjoyed it as much as we did! Most importantly, we have been blessed beyond measure to be Shawn's parents & God has given us the opportunity to impact his life for Christ. May we always strive for that highest goal!!!

Shawn, we love you & are so proud to be your parents!!!

Wonderful Friday Night

2010-01-16T11:24:00.001-06:00

We met my Dad @ The Faded Rose for dinner bc he was out of town on business all week so the kids were dying to see him!!! Plus my mom is having a girls weekend with some of her very dear friends from Magnolia so we didn't want Daddy spending Friday alone. Anna Kate loves to wear my dad's reading glasses so she immediately took them from him.

Kind of hard to see but she likes to wear them on her head! It's pretty funny!

So we started with wonderful company & enjoyed wonderful food! One of my favorite dishes is Shrimp & Grits...yummy!!!! This is a new addition to their menu & it was fantastic!

How could you not be happy after that meal???

Well, Daniel & I got an unexpected surprise when my offered for BOTH kids to spend the nite w/ him!!! What a PawPaw! He was already planning on Shawn staying but couldn't stand it for AK not come too. So...Daniel & I decided to go see a movie. We haven't been to the movie in a while so it was definitley a treat! We both have been wanting to see The Blind Side...OH MY GOODNESS!!!! If you haven't seen this movie, you MUST go! I had mentioned Leap Year but knew Daniel really wanted to see the other (he is good about going to see chik flics w/ me though!). Sandra Bullock is a must in his book though. Well, I'll just tell you that I would have missed a HUGE blessing to have not seen that movie. Also, I'm now the newest & biggest Baltimore Ravens fan there is!!!!

If you need something to do this weekend or even if you think you don't have time for a movie, trust me you won't be disappointed!

Happy Saturday everybody!

Crazy week!!!!

2010-01-14T18:58:00.001-06:00

It's been a busy week...with lots of interesting stories!

It started Sunday night after church when Daniel ran back to pick up something I had forgotten & needless to say it got very exciting while he was gone only 8 blocks.

Shawn & I were sitting in the living room I'm sure watching Disney channel when Anna Kate comes in to tell me she's cooking. I didn't think much about it bc Santa brought her a kitchen for Christmas. Well then she comes back to tell me "It's burning!". I expressed my dislike of burned food expecting her to quickly go fix the problem; however, she continued to stand beside me with eyes the size of quarters.

That's when my mommy instincts kicked & decided I better go check out the situation. Well, as I rounded the corner into he kitchen I see flames shooting out of the toaster oven!!! Yep...she had put in an empty box & turned it on. I think I scared her to death grabbing her & literally throwing her on the couch so I could get my feet wet at my new career-firefighting. I found he baking soda whih seemed to take forever, opened the toaster door when flames had a HUGE poof due to the added oxygen, then poured baking soda everywhere while Shawn was opening windows. Needless to say Daniel was surprised as well when he returned home.

I wanted a picture of the toaster but Daniel had it in the trash by the time had overcome the shock of my 2 year old almost burning down my kitchen. It's amazing how obedient this hold has been since this happened. I really think she was terrified!! It's been yes ma'am & ok momma most of the week!

Monday, Anna Kate had her year follow-up appointment for her tubes. She took her hearing test like a really BIG girl (they said like age 3 or 4). She passed that hen we were off to see Dr. Ritcher where learned thy both tubes were out, but sitting in the ear canal. So they decided they needed to dig them out...I know sounds pretty unpleasant but hey assured me it was just uncomfortable & didn't hurt. We go back in 6-9 months since that was one of the only days without a runny nose.

Tuesday, again Anna Kate had yet another doc appointment for her 2 year check up. We are behind since it had to be rescheduled 3 times for various reasons on our part as well as the doc office. She passed all the 2 & 3 year old milestones so we were very pleased.

Wednesday...Anna Kate didn't do anything noteworthy!

Thursday...hanging out @ home eating pizza! YAY!!!!

Well, that pretty much sums up our week! Sorry for such a long post but it's been one of those weeks & it took me a few days to admit the fire to very many people but they say confession is good for the soul so there it is! Glad this week is over & looking forward to Shawn's birthday next weekend!!!

Have a great weekend everybody!

First Day!

2009-12-23T12:05:00.000-06:00

Well, this is the first day of my blog! It's been a busy & crazy day at our house this am. I've been cleaning & hopefully getting ready to cook. Unfortunately, I need to go to WM but it's raining & I have a 2 year old who isn't too keen in a nap...even though she was up for about 2 hours last nite!!! At least with the rain there's no desire to go do much outside!

A HUGE Thank You to Jennifer Francis for getting my blog set up!!! Just the thought was overwhelming. I reminded her of my unfornate first scrapbooking experience when I literally had to put a gift sack over my head when I started hyperventating!!! I'm better now with that task so hopefully that won't happen too much with blogging.

Well, I'm off to take on a 2 year old who desparately needs a nap yet doesn't want to take one!!! Should be interesting...to say the least!

Merry Christmas everyone!

Laurie