His Cross Our Passion

I praise you God, for Carter is fearfully and wonderfully made!

2009-04-22T16:15:00.005-04:00

Sorry for the delay updating. You know how they say, if you don’t hear from the doctor, it must be good news. Well, if you don’t hear from me, it means the same thing. :) Carter’s bone marrow biopsy didn’t show anything of concern. There is still no explanation as to why he temporarily stopped producing red blood cells or why he has a high MCV. The doctors were encouraged, however, after the biopsy and felt a lot better. They were able to rule out anything serious at this point. They are going to continue following him every 3 mo or so to ensure nothing “evolves.” At last check, his hemoglobin was 10.6 and his MCV was 104. His hemoglobin is still below the normal low (11), but he is not transfusion dependent and can live a normal life at this level. He may always be mildly anemic, but it doesn’t seem to be affecting his daily life right now. I did read something online that said sometimes macrocytosis (large MCV) can be developed during recovery of Transient Erythroblastopenia of Childhood (his original diagnosis). I have not asked the docs about this yet, but if this were true, I would assume things would start to normalize. Not sure what is going to happen if his counts continue to read badly. He doesn’t go back until the end of May.

He saw Orthopedics last week and the curve in his back has not changed. It is a 24 degree curve. Dr. Loveless doesn’t think this will ever be an issue or that he will ever have to intervene to correct the curve. We don’t go back for a year.

His genetics appt was yesterday. Dr. Perszyk is basically monitoring his growth at this point. He had a bone age x-ray when he was 16 months and the bone age was 18 mo plus or minus 5 months. So, his bones were growing chronologically, which is good. At that time he had the height of a 7 mo old and the weight of a 6 mo old but his bones were growing at the rate they were supposed to. This just means he would be a small adult. At 2 yrs old he measured 29 ½ in and his estimated adult height was 4 ft 11 in. Based on his height yesterday, he would be 5 ft 2 in. He did another bone age x-ray yesterday. This will determine if his bone growth is behind, chronological, or advanced for his age. If it were behind, it would cause late puberty and give Carter more time to grow but it may not be until college age. If it were advanced, puberty would be reached early and this could cause him to be very short. We want it to be chronological. If it were either delayed or advanced, more tests would have to be run to determine what is causing his bone growth to either slow down or speed up. In my opinion, Carter is fine and will be exactly how tall he is supposed to be. I don’t think anyone can say for sure how tall your child will be. I would call all of this GUESStimates. He doesn’t appear to have any problems intellectually, physically, etc…. He keeps up with all the other kids his age with no problem at all and is a star on the ball field. :) The doc did say to be encouraging and not to always talk about his abnormalities. In other words, don’t make him think that something is wrong or that he is different. I don’t think this really applies to us now, but may later as he gets older and starts to understand more. Carter will be Carter and he is his own unique person made perfectly the way that God wants him. I’m confident of that and am not struggling in the least bit over his growth. I do feel though that it is good to have it monitored and I wouldn’t rule out growth hormones should he NEED them LATER in life, but not now and not without much research, consideration, prayer, etc…. This is where endocrinology comes in.

He goes to endocrinology tomorrow and I’m expecting this to be a long, informative visit. I know they will be looking at his bone age x-ray and will also order more testing which I will do. I don’t want to deny anything that may provide answers. I just want to be very careful. Sometimes, docs just want to throw “fixes” at you and it may not be the best thing. Carter is not even 5 yet and we have time. In addition, with us not knowing for sure what is going on with his blood, I would not want to do anything that could jeopardize his health in that area. For instance, if he were to start on a hormone, would his marrow even be able to produce enough blood for his rapid growth? Lots to think about and hopefully we will have more answers by summer. I am so thankful for doctors and medicine; I just want to be smart and discerning through all of this. I’m looking forward to seeing how genetics and endocrinology will work together. Dr. Perszyk even mentioned sitting down with both Justin and I later on to talk through everything. Finally, I am learning as I go and may sometimes not be clear or quite accurate. As I learn more and things are revealed, I will update. Thanks for your prayers!

Bone marrow biopsy

2009-03-13T09:10:00.005-04:00

Thought I would start with some pictures to make you laugh!

Tyler got silly putty stuck in his hair and decided to cut it out with my kitchen scissors. I had no idea what was happening until after the fact! There goes some beautiful curls!

Look how high Carter's baseball socks come! He wore them all day and wouldn't take them off!

His huge uniform!

Vitals before biopsy.

Carter's bone marrow biopsy went well yesterday. Everything went as planned and there were no complications. We got there about 7:30 and we were done by 9:45. It was emotionally harder for me than I thought it would be. They allowed us to go into the operating room until Carter fell asleep. Of course, Carter started to cry when I put him up onto the bed. When they held the mask up to his face, I got upset. It was really hard. If we ever have to do this again, I don't think I will go back there. Recovery went well once I picked him up and rocked him. My Mom told him if he drank his apple juice he could go home. I don't think I've ever seen him drink from a sippy cup so fast! Afterwards, we went to breakfast and then to Sports Authority to buy him a red baseball bat - his new pride and joy! He took a good nap yesterday afternoon. I was a little concerned about his eyes. They were really, really red. Carter couldn't stop rubbing and whined often. After talking with the Dr and a nurse friend, I gave him some Benadryl and it seemed to help. He slept good last night and is pretty much back to normal today. He hasn't once complained of pain. I don't think he even knows what happened. I probably won't have any results until next week. This weekend is full of baseball games. I'm also doing the River Run. Should be busy as usual!

2009-03-09T16:30:00.011-04:00

Things have been quite busy here lately. I think it's even busier than the holiday season. Baseball has begun! This year, both boys are playing which can make things kind of crazy. Not to mention, I think I may have overcommitted my husband. He is trying to help coach both teams. Carter is so cute out there! His size small shirt comes down to his shins. But, don't let the size fool you. He can definitely keep up with the rest of them.

My brother's visit to Charleston Southern went well. The coaches were very impressed with him. They want him to report to practice early Aug (I forgot the exact date). Once he "proves" himself, they will more than likely offer an athletic scholarship. Supposedly, he cannot "try-out" before hand because it is against the rules for a D1 school. CSU is a D1 subdivision school (not sure what that means). I do know, however, that their opening game is against the NATIONAL CHAMPIONS - THE FLORIDA GATORS! The game is in the SWAMP and you better believe I will be there. And, if my brother is playing for CSU, yes, I will be a Buccaneer that day! How COOL would that be to run out of the tunnel in the SWAMP! AHHHH! I know CSU will get eaten alive but the experience would be worth it, right?! My brother and Mom really like the campus. Please pray that the Lord will lead the way and make it very clear if this is where Ryan is supposed to be. Also, that HE will provide. It is a very expensive school and my Mom has applied for assistance. Hopefully, she will only have to pay for the 1st semester. Another great bonus is CSU is a Christian School. I was excited to hear that. Hopefully, Ryan will grow in his love for our Savior while there and hopefully, he will be around great people!

Carter is going in for a bone marrow biopsy this Thursday. It will be at Wolfsons Children's Hospital. He went to the doctor last Fri 02/27 and not much has changed. His hemoglobin dropped from a 10.7 to a 10.6 (not really that significant) and his retic dropped from a 1.7 to a 1.2. Retic is short for reticulocyte. A reticulocyte count is a blood test that measures how fast red blood cells called reticulocytes are made by the bone marrow and released into the blood. A high count would be good meaning his body is working hard to reverse anemia. When he went into the hospital his retic was a 0 meaning his body had quit producing red blood cells altogether. For awhile after his blood transfusion, although his hemoglobin remained low, his retic was high. That was encouraging to doctors and they thought that he was following the classic course for TEC. Now, 3 ½ months later, It seems as though his hemoglobin has plateaued at a low level and his retic has dropped back off. If he had Transient Erythroblastopenia of Childhood as doctors thought, he should be recovered by now.

In addition to this, his MCV is high. This means his red blood cell volume (size) is too big. This is called macrocytic anemia or macrocytosis. According to the lab sheet, a high MCV would be 87. Carter’s was 107 last month and 103.5 this month. The doctor said Carter’s should not be over 100 at all. The condition that is causing this is what needs to be determined. Why is this going on? I am confident the bone marrow biopsy will provide some answers. I have also provided the doctor with copies of every lab Carter has had done since birth along with NICU discharge papers. Hopefully, this will also help as they will be able to see his history.

To end on a good note, Justin got at promotion ar work. Effective 03/16 (my Birthday), he will be a Supervisor! God is so good!

My Brother!

2009-02-19T13:52:00.006-05:00

I just wanted to share with you a little bit about my brother, Ryan, and ask for your prayers this Saturday. We are 7 1/2 years apart and have always been in completely different seasons of life. He was only 9 when my oldest son was born and turned 11 the day after I married and moved out of the house. Because we were so young and there is such a big age difference, we never really had the chance to develop that sweet brother/sister - best friend relationship while I was at home. I remember picking on him and making him scream just because. I was a selfish teenager and life was about me. ***Now he can take me down in less than 5 seconds and, yes, we still wrestle and, yes, I scream now! What mom always said did come true: He did eventually get bigger than me. :)

Over the past 6 yrs, he has been BUSY playing sports and doing normal high school stuff, like hanging out with friends, and I have been busy being a Mom and wife.
Our love for each other has always been there, but it wasn't often expressed and we didn't see or talk to each other much.

At the beginning of this school year (his Senior yr), I prayed that God would show me how to reach out to him. I prayed that he would provide opportunities for me to speak into his life and ideas on how to encourage him, bless him, and let him know how much I love him. God has heard my prayers and continues to answer. He has been so good to grow our love and care for each other. There has been difficult talks, there has been times where I've been so aggravated I've just wanted to knock him out, literally, there has been things he's done and still does that I don't agree with, there's been many, many tears, but God has been so kind to help us through and I've been able to speak truth into his life so many times. God has been faithful to bring much good out of each situation and I am sure He will continue to do so, as I know, more hard times are sure to come. God has also done and continues to do a good work in me. I feel I am getting better at extending grace and better at bringing gentle, well thought through words. The feelings I have for my brother can only come from God.

God has blessed Ryan with the ability to play football and it was during football season that I believe God began to work. He has played since middle school for University Christian and excels in the area of kicking. One of the ways I tried to encourage him this year was by decorating his truck, rain or shine, before every game. I also tried to leave a REALLY motivating, truth filled letter inside for him to read. Our verse became Psalm 18 and he wore it under his eyes every Friday night. He knew I was his biggest fan and his biggest prayer warrior. You could hear me screaming for him all the way from the parking lot. It was kind of obnoxious, but oh so much fun!! :) This past fall was such a bittersweet time for me and I am sure for him too. I cried several times when he would bust through the banner and run out onto the field. I hated for it to be over and I didn't like the idea that he may never play football again. This is where the prayer request comes in. Ryan is heading to Charleston Southern tomorrow and is meeting with the football coaches Saturday. Please pray that his visit goes well and that the coaches offer him a scholarship. Ryan has worked and practiced extremely hard in hopes of playing college football. His work ethic is motivating to me. My Mom has sent him all over the southeast to different football camps and he has received a lot of awards and recognition. He is also working with a recruiter and a personal trainer. But, up until now, he has had no offers. A lot of schools are interested in him as a walk on, but he is trying to get a scholarship. Please pray that if God closes this door, that I will be able to rest in the truth that God is sovereign and has a perfect plan for Ryan's life. And, please pray that I will be able to encourage my brother and family during this time. It's hard not to be anxious during this wait. Thank you so much! I will try to update when I know something.

Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Hope you enjoy the pics! These are only a few as I didn't take all digital.

My grace is sufficient for you...2 Cor 12:9

2009-02-10T07:50:00.005-05:00

Hope this encourages you as it did me. What honor it reflects on the gospel when we have faith and trust in the Lord no matter the circumstance.

God's grace is illustrated and magnified in the poverty and trials of believers. Saints bear up under every discouragement, believing that all things work together for their good, and that out of apparent evils a real blessing shall ultimately spring - that their God will either work a deliverance for them speedily, or most assuredly support them in the trouble, as long as He is pleased to keep them in it. This patience of the saints proves the power of divine grace. There is a lighthouse out at sea: it is a calm night - I can't tell whether the structure is firm; the tempest must rage about it, and then I shall know whether it will stand. So with the Spirit's work: if it were not on many occasions surrounded with tempestuous waters, we should not know that it was true and strong; if the winds did not blow upon it, we should not know how firm and secure it was. The masterworks of God are those people who stand in the midst of difficulties, steadfast, unmoveable -
Those who would glorify their God must expect to encounter many trials. No one can be esteemed before the Lord without many conflicts. If, then, your path is marked with many trials, rejoice in it because your life will provide greater evidence of the all-sufficient grace of God. As for His failing you, DON'T EVEN DREAM OF IT - hate the very thought of it. The God who has been sufficient until now, should be trusted to the end. - Charles Spurgeon

Tyler, my love!

2009-02-07T14:00:00.004-05:00

Our oldest son turned 8 on 01/11. Unbelievable! Where has time gone? For Christmas we got a tent from my Dad and Step-Mom. So, to celebrate, we had a campout in our backyard. We invited some of his best buddies over. It turned out great and everyone got along so well! It was really fairly easy and something I would definitely do again. The boys stayed outside the entire time which made for an easy clean-up. They played and played and played - war, tree climbing, trampoline jumpin', basketball.... They kept busy. We cooked hot dogs over the campfire for dinner and then s'mores for dessert. When it was time to settle down, we brought them all onto the back porch and started a movie. Two at a time they came in for a shower. Once they were all clean, they walked to the tent and went to bed. It was a cold 40 degrees but they stayed out there all night. Justin was a trooper and slept out there with them. For breakfast we cooked pancakes and bacon. I took all of them to church Sun morning and released them to their parents. After that, I surprised Tyler and took him to Gainesville for the National Championship Celebration in the Swamp. It was so fun! It was the first time Ty had ever been. Now, I've got to take him to a game.

How grateful I am for the gifts God has given me - my children! I love you dearly Tyler!

More waiting

2009-02-04T17:07:00.009-05:00

Carter's nurse called yesterday and said the doctors have decided to wait another month before ordering a bone marrow biospy. They want to see the results of one more blood draw. I said, "ok," and that was the end of our conversation. I asked no questions. Things were really busy at home when she called and I wasn't really thinking clearly. Of course, once things settled down, the thoughts started to roll. Why exactly did they decide to wait? I do trust the doctors are making the best decision, but it would be kind of nice to know how and why they came to that conclusion. It seems they are really trying not to do anything that is not necessary and for that I am grateful. Obviously, they feel things aren't too critical at this point and they have some time. Since yesterday afternoon, I have tried to feed on Scripture and other resources dealing with waiting, resting, patience, and anxiousness. I have found some great stuff and am going to try to share it with you.

Her is something from John Piper:

"Impatience is what we begin to feel when we start to doubt the wisdom of God's timing or the goodness of God's guidance."

"The opposite is a deepening, ripening, peaceful willingness to wait for God in the unplanned place of obedience, and to walk with God at the unplanned pace of obedience - to wait in his place, and go at his pace. And the key is future grace........hope of future grace beyond this life carries saints patiently through their affliction."

Lord, help me to patiently be able to wait and endure without complaining. Thank you that there is hope beyond this temporal life. I will one day live forever with you in a place without any problems. I pray that I will not let trouble diminsh my faith. Help me to remember that you have a purpose for everything and are doing a good work in me. Patience demands inner strength and that comes from you alone. I pray that you will empower me with strength and patient endurance.

2 Cor 4:17 & 18 "For this slight momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal."

Update on Carter

2009-01-28T06:46:00.004-05:00

Carter had an appt yesterday. His last visit was good so they decided to give his body about a month to do whatever it was going to do. At that time his hemoglobin was a 8.4 (the highest since transfusion) and his retic was still in the 4's. He seemed to be continuously improving and they didn't feel the need to keep sticking him every week. I was a little anxious about this appt because I wanted to know how he was doing.

The appt was originally scheduled for last Thursday with Dr. Bradfield but got cancelled and moved to yesterday with Dr. Gauger. I totally believe this was the Lord. There are 6 different oncology/hematology doctors and I was told they like to keep patients between 2 doctors. Carter had seen Dr. Pitel and who I thought was Dr. Gauger. Then, because neither of these doctors were available during a week when Carter needed to be seen, we saw Dr. Bradfield. Yesterday, when Dr. Gauger walked in and introduced herself, it completely through me off guard. I had never seen her before. I found out that who I thought was Dr. Gauger originally was really Dr. Bansal. This means I had seen 4 of the 6 doctors in practice. Not good. He didn't have a good following by any of them because he had jumped around so much.

Now, all the doctors are good but the real Dr. Gauger was exceptional! She was very good and she will be the doctor I request from here forward. She sat across from me and put Carter's file on the desk. We discussed Carter's history and went over a chart that had every reading on it since he started getting blood work. The good news is that his hemoglobin went up to a 10.7 (we're getting close to the normal low). She said she wanted to determine what Carter's baseline hemoglobin was so we know what is normal for him. I'm not sure yet how that will be determined. The concerning news is that the size of his red blood cells are too large. She said if the retic was high it would give some explanation but the retic had dropped to a 1.7. She wants to know why. Why are they so big? Per the chart, the size of his red cells have not been normal for some time and the numbers are increasing each blood draw. She feels a bone marrow biopsy needs to be the next step. Each Monday morning all 6 doctors have a meeting. She said Carter will be discussed at their meeting and she will go over her concerns with the other 3 doctors who have seen him. After this meeting, Carter's nurse will call with what's next. So, as for now, a bone marrow biospsy has not been scheduled. If it does get scheduled, it will probably take place within the next 2 weeks. Dr. Gauger also requested the blood from the lab so she could look at it herself. I really feel good about his care under her.

There are only a handful of things that could be causing the red blood cells to be too large. Most you cannot even pronounce without some practice much less spell. I didn't write down the possibilities because I didn't want to worry myself unnecessarily.

Thanks for your prayers. I will update when I know more.

107.6 MCV, retic 1.7, white count 3.81, platelets good

2008-12-09T18:01:00.003-05:00

Yesterdays blood test came back good to my surprise. You would think there would have been some relief after waiting 6 hrs for the nurse to call, but not so much. You see, I thought Carter looked bad yesterday and I was kind of expecting bad results. The lab had even given me a bracelet should I have to come back for transfusion. Now don't get me wrong, I was grateful for a good report, but I couldn't seem to "get happy." Yesterday was probably the hardest day since this all started. Going to the lab weekly is starting to take it's toll, especially when the nurses can't ever seem to find Carter's veins. And I have come to the conclusion that I cannot figure this out. When I think he looks good his numbers drop and when I think he looks bad his numbers improve. I just want to see consistent improvement instead of this teeter tottering thing. There were also some other things going on yesterday that kept me in a "funk." I defintely wasn't finding joy despite of my circumstances and I wasn't trusting God as I should.

Then came this morning. I met a friend to exercise and arrived before her. I sat in the car praying and this song came on. It was perfect. The words are kind of repetitive when typed out, but I didn't notice that at all this morning. I need to be reminded and reminded and reminded again. Repetition is good (most of the time).

Verse 1
I'm castin my cares aside. I'm leaving my past behind.
I'm setting my heart and mind on You, Jesus.
I'm reaching my hands to Yours, believing there is so much more,
Knowing that all You have in store for me is good, it's good.

Chorus
Today is the day You have made, I will rejoice and be glad in it.
Today is the day You have made, I will rejoice and be glad in it.
And I won't worry about tomorrow; I'm trusting in what you say.
Today is the day

Verse 2
I'm putting my fears aside. I'm leaving my doubts behind.
I'm giving my hopes and dreams to You, Jesus.
I'm reaching my hands to Yours, believing there is so much more,
Knowing that all You have in store for me is good, it's good.

Bridge
I will stand upon Your truth.
And all my days, I'll live for You.
I will stand upon Your truth.
And all my days, I'll live for You.

Final Chorus
Today is the day You have made, I will rejoice and be glad in it.
Today is the day You have made, I will rejoice and be glad in it.
And I won't worry about tomorrow. I'm giving you my fears and sorrows.
Where You lead me, I will follow; I'm trusting in what you say.
Today is the day.

Isn't that good! It's like God was speaking to me right there in the car through the radio. When I got home, 2 of my great friends had posted entries that had to be written just for me :). One was verses all on waiting http://www.daughterofdelight.blogspot.com/ and the other was about trials and how God sovereignly places them in our lives for our good and His glory. It was sooo incredible I need to read it again and again - REPETITION :). You can find it here: http://www.acupofgracegcc.blogspot.com/.

My husband just got home and I immediately asked him to play the song I had heard this morning :). I had the music printed off and waiting on the piano. As I finish typing this, he is in there practing. He is incredible and is so good to me.

We go back on Friday. I will try to update as soon as I can. Here are the numbers from yesterday: hemoglobin went up from a 6.1 to a 7.5, white blood cells up from 4.09 to 4.99, red blood cells up from a 1.8 to a 2.2. All these numbers are still below the acceptable low, but the improvement is encouraging. The interesting thing is that the retic dropped. It was 4.9 and now it is 4.7.

Lord, I fail so many times. The fact that you still love me is amazing! Thank you for the work that you are doing in my life.

2008-12-07T19:54:00.004-05:00

As I type this, Carter is in his bed crying. I think it is partly because I put him to bed, but mostly because when I prayed I asked God to take the pain away and to comfort him tomorrow at his 4th blood draw. As soon as I said amen the tears and the "I don't want to go to the train doctor" started. Up until now, every lab experience has been awful! Last Wed he ended up being "stuck" twice within 30 min. It is starting to become very difficult for me.

There was a good and a bad to last weeks visit. I haven't posted "counts" since the beginning, but from here forward I think I will only to help me keep track. When Carter initially went into the hospital, 11/15, his hemoglobin was at a 5 and his retic was at a 0 (which means he wasn't producing red blood cells).

Retic is an abbreviation for recticulocyte. A reticulocyte count is a blood test that measures how fast red blood cells called reticulocytes are made by the bone marrow and released into the blood. Reticulocytes are in the blood for about 2 days before developing into mature red blood cells.

After transfusion, 11/16, his hemoglobin was a 8.3 (suppose to be between 12 and 16).

11/20, his hemoglobin dropped to a 7.5. His red blood cell count was a 2.3 (suppose to be between 3.9 and 5.3). His retic was 1.1.

11/26, almost everything stayed the same with exception to his retic, which rose to 2.1.

12/03, hemoglobin dropped to 6.1, red blood cell count dropped to 1.8, retic 4.9.

Although, numbers are dropping, because the retic is going up the doctor has decided not to transfuse again at this time. A high reticulocyte count means more red blood cells are being made by the bone marrow which is a good thing. I believe this is a sign we are on the road to recovery, although, it may be slow. The doctor believes Carter is following the "classic course" for TEC. He said anything else wouldn't clinically make sense. This is good news since TEC is something that will pass. I don't think they will do a bone marrow biopsy unless the retic stops improving.

I will try to update tomorrow. In the meantime, please continue to pray for my little man and please pray for me. Thanks so much!

2008-12-03T08:16:00.003-05:00

Well, today is our 3rd appt since Carter's release from Wolfson's. One of the first things out of his mouth this morning was, "I don't want to go to the train doctor" - there is a big train display in the lobby of Nemours that he loves to look at. I'm hoping they can just prick his finger today instead of withdrawing blood via a needle. From the way he looks, I think his blood counts will be up. I hope I'm right and not just getting used to his paleness. I just read that Nemours will be closed this morning due to a loss of power caused by a main electrical transformer. All appts scheduled for this morning will have to be rescheduled. I am so thankful Carter's appt is for this afternoon. I have already been waiting a week. I found this quote a long time ago and threw it in a drawer. I happened to run across it the other day. I am not even sure who it is from but it was so timely for me. Hope it blesses you too!

"Waiting on God isn't about the suspension of meaning and purpose. It's part of the meaning and purpose that God has brought into my life. Waiting on God isn't to be viewed as an obstruction in the way of the plan. Waiting is an essential part of the plan. For the child of God, waiting isn't simply about what I'll receive at the end of my wait. No, waiting is much more purposeful, efficient, and practical than that. Waiting is fundamentally about what I'll become as I wait. God is using the wait to do in and through me exactly what He's promised. Through the wait He's changing me. By means of the wait He's altering the fabric of my thoughts and desires. Through the wait He's causing me to see and experience new things about Him and His kingdom. And all of this sharpens me, enabling me to be a more useful tool in His redemptive hands."

An update to come..............

A quick update........

2008-11-26T12:54:00.009-05:00

I took Carter for his blood work this morning. Unfortunately, our "magic cream" didn't work too well. They were unable to get blood from his arm again. They stuck his hand and got blood at turtle speed. It was a very traumatic experience.

The nurse called 3 1/2 hrs later (my heart skipped a beat everytime the phone rang during this wait) and said that Carter's blood count had not dropped, but it hadn't improved either. She said it was almost scary how exactly the same the results were. She knows, however, that the lab didn't "mess up" because there were a few differences. Good news is that his reticulocyte count has gone up a point which means his body is working harder trying to produce more red cells. It is also good that we didn't have to go the hospital today for another transfusion. That would have put a damper on Thanksgiving. Now we have even more to be thankful for! His next appt is scheduled for Wed 12/3 at 1:40. We will be going in about an hour before for more blood work. His nurse said we can just request a finger prick from now on since the needle isn't working to well. This was a relief. Should things stay the same or worsen, they probably will start talking about a bone marrow test. Thanks so much for your continued prayers. Hope everyone has a great Thanksgiving. God is so good!

Off to the Emergency Room we go....

2008-11-25T19:15:00.026-05:00

Well, today was another exciting, eventful day for us. This morning I was in the back of the house when I heard Carter screaming and Tyler yelling, "Carter's bleeding." I immediately ran towards the play room/school room where they were and was met by Carter in the kitchen. Behind him was a trail of blood. From what I could tell, he fell off the couch and stabbed himself in the forehead with the colored pencil he was holding. Because it was a head wound, it was bleeding pretty good. Once I got it under control, I decided to take him to the ER. The puncture wound wasn't that bad, but I thought if I just used a band-aid it would leave a pretty nasty scar. I was out of band-aids (I had just used them to decorate my brothers truck last Fri, of course) so I made one. I folded up a tiny piece of paper towel and I taped it across his head with Scotch tape :) A homemade band-aid. My creation controlled the bledding while we rode to the hospital. I took him to Baptist South because they are usually faster. They used dermabond which is like a glue. We were in and out fairly quickly. Carter is doing fine. You would not even know it happened by the way he is acting. This is wound # 3 on the face.

I'm doing good, but this morning I was a little frazzled. "I'm done" was my attitude. When I got in the car, I heard the following song. I think it was written as if a mom were talking to her child, but it ministered to me in a different way. I kept thinking of how my Father takes care of me and how I am safe in him. I calmed down.

Clouds will rage
And storms will race in, but you will be safe in my arms
Rains will pour down, waves will crash all around
But you will be safe in my arms

God is so good to keep sending reminders to us. Later in the day, I was teaching Tyler about Abraham. We read from The Child's Story Bible and from Gen 15. God Told Abram He was his shield and to not be afraid. This was a good reminder to me that God stays with us during difficult times. Abram's faith was also an example to me. For nothing is impossible to God. Brenda also called and reminded me that God will not give us more than we can handle.

Please pray as we are going for our 2nd blood test tomorrow. Also, I believe my husband is feeling a bit overwhelmed right now. He has decided to teach piano Mon, Tues, and Thurs night to help us financially, but it seems the bills just keep coming. We are also facing some insurance issues with the kids that obviously need to be resolved very quickly. Love you all!

long awaited phone call

2008-11-24T10:04:00.006-05:00

I just spoke with Dr. Perszyk, Carter's genetics doctor. I've been waiting since last Wed. He said the drop we saw Thursday after Carter's blood draw is pretty common after transfusion. He suggested giving Carter more folic acid either through foods or pills that I could crush up and mix with food. This would help his red blood cells. He said with cancer your platelet count is usually bad and your white cell count is way up. This is not the case for Carter. Good news! He said it does look like an isolated red blood cell problem. If the red blood cell production has in fact stopped because of a viral infection we could still be looking at months until recovery. This depends on how long the virus has already been in his body. His counts could drop more before they get better. How quickly and drastically they drop though is what to be watchful for. If blood test start to show something else "fishy" than more tests will be run. He doesn't think Carter has an iron deficiency because the red blood cell size is pretty normal and if he were lacking iron it wouldn't be. I told him Carter has had loose stools for some time now (he went diarrhea 4 times Sat) and he said it could be related to the virus, if that's what's going on, or he could have a problem absorbing nutrients. He mentioned Celiac Disease. I did a quick google on this and read Celiac Disease is one of the most frequent causes of malabsorption during childhood. Malabsorption can result in other problems such as delayed growth and short stature. I think Carter fits into the delayed growth and short stature category, but I'm not sure this is what he has because with Celiac Disease you usually have chronic diarrhea and I wouldn't say Carter has a chronic problem yet. All this will be ironed out as blood work gets done. And in regards to blood work, Dr. Perszyk told me to call my pediatrician because there is something called Emla cream that you put on your child before blood draw. It warms up the area (makes the draw easier) and acts as a numbing agent. He said Wed morning should be an "OUCHLESS" draw for Carter. HOORAY! PRAISE GOD!

This is a waiting game that can go on into the new year. As time goes, more will be found out. All in God's timing, right! Our conversation lasted almost 40 min and I tried to write down and retain what I could. He is a really smart man. I kind of feel like I'm spinning. I keep thinking I missed something or forgot something. I know I did, but am trying to trust I remembered what I needed to. I need to figure out a way to record things - any ideas let me know. When you try to do research online it can become really overwhelming and eats up your time.

We had a good time away this weekend and I hope to post about that soon. All in all, we are doing well - waiting until Wed morning!

My perfectly made son...........

2008-11-20T21:55:00.011-05:00

Before Carter saw the doctor today, he had to get his blood drawn. This was a terrible experience. The events from the weekend were fresh in his mind and he started to cry as soon as we walked in. Not only did he cry, but he told me it hurt him. He didn't even want the nurse to touch his hand. It is really hard as a Mom to hold your child still and to allow hurt. Our doctors visit went well, but it really didn't tell us anything different. All we can do is wait. Talk about a faith builder! Each week, after they read the results from the blood test, they will determine the next step of action.

It wasn't until I got home that I found out Carter's blood count. His hemoglobin and red blood cell count had dropped. Not good. I wasn't expecting much change since he just had a transfusion 4 days ago. His hemoglobin was a 5 when he entered the hospital. It raised to a 8.3 after transfusion. Today it was 7.5. It is supposed to be between 12-16. The nurse thinks Carter will have to have another transfusion if it drops to 7 or below. He is only 1/2 a point away. The positive is that his white blood cell count went up which usually happens when you are fighting infection (it was low upon leaving the hospital) and his reticulocyte count went up very little.

If it is TEC, as thought, then his numbers should start improving. If this doesn't happen, then the doctors will start going down another road. This would most likely involve lots of tests. We should know more by 12/03. Carter will be going back the Wed before Thanksgiving for more blood work.

Thanks for your continued prayers. Not only do I want to keep my dear friends and family up to date, I also want to be diligent with keeping good records and I feel this is a good way of doing it. As I pulled up my blog this evening a song started playing. The first few words were, "God over all, giver of life and health and breath, I want to sing of your love." It really struck me hard! Pray that I will remember this.

I'M BACK.............

2008-11-19T16:23:00.011-05:00

Sorry, it has been so long. Things have been quite busy this fall....well, really all year. I don't think I've ever had a year quite like this before and it's not over yet. Not only has God sovereignly allowed unexpected things to come into our lives, but we've also been out of town every month since April. April - California. May - Kentucky. June/July - family reunion in Alabama. August - Maryland. September - Missouri. October - Gainesville/Destin. November - Atlanta. In addition, every Friday night has been spent at a high school football game, whether it be a home or away game. My brother is a Sr this year and being at his games is very important to me. I love him dearly and believe God is doing a real work in our realtionship. Maybe I can share more on that later. We are also are in the "thick" of homeschooling now and are working extra hard because of a late start. Because of the busyness, I have considered many times stopping our blog. Looking back now, I wish I would have been more diligent. You forget so many things if you don't write them down and it is because of this in particular that I am back......

I never journaled when my kids were babies and I so wish I had. Not only for those precious moments that you easily forget, but for medial purposes as well. This is something I've been thinking about a lot lately. Carter was admitted into Wolfson's Children's Hospital this past Sat after a couple of blood tests revealed severe anemia. His blood counts were really bad! Doctors said that his body had quit making red blood cells. His hemoglobin count had dropped to a dangerously low level and, if no intervention was made, he would continue to decline. He received a blood transfusion that started late Sat night and went into Sun morning. His body responded well to the transfusion so the Doctor released us Sunday afternoon. They think he has something called Transient Erythroblastopenia of Childhood. TEC is thought to be triggered by a viral infection. If this is what he has, red cell production should recover spontaneously but it could take a few months. In the meantime, he may need another transfusion until his body recovers fully. He will be going to a Hematologist every week for blood tests. I'm not really liking this "waiting thing" but I am trusting God. There is a chance it could be something more severe, but no need to go into that right now. Carter was also given a transfusion at birth and because of his medical history Doctors are monitoring him closely. I am currently awaiting a call from his genetics Dr.

I really want to stay on top of this and thought picking up my blogging would help me. It would also allow me to update friends and share my prayer requests. Thanks to all who have faithfully been praying for my family and have offered to serve. I love you all and cannot thank God enough for blessing me with friends that I don't deserve. You can pray now that God would calm my anxious heart, give doctors wisdom, and that He would help me to be able to discern if something is abnormal during daily activity. It is hard to tell when something is wrong. More to come...........

Busy, Busy, Busy!

2008-07-29T16:47:00.003-04:00

This past weekend was really fun! My mom was out of town with my brother so we house sat for her. She lives a block from the ocean in Neptune Beach. All of Justin's family stayed with us. We celebrated Annsley's B-Day all weekend. I planned to take pics but my camera died the first night and I never replaced the batteries. We had a great time hangin' out with friends. We beachcrused everywhere, played games, cooked out, garage saled, played volleyball, walked on the beach...... It was relaxing and as always great to spend time with family and friends!!

The Edwards family and myself are heading to Maryland tomorrow morning for the Sovereign Grace Worship Conference. http://www.sovereigngraceministries.com/
I am sure we are going to have a great time! The Edwards signed me up for a vocal class HA! :) That should be fun!! I have been busy all day today preparing for our trip. Our children are staying with friends and my Mom. I packed little presents for them in their suitcase. They have a suprise for each day! I also put little notes in there. I have to share this one with you because I was cracking myself up BIG time!

For Thursday, I put a whoopie cushion in Ty's bag and a GIANT whistle in carter's bag. These were the notes:

Tyler - Psalm 100 "Make a joyful NOISE to the Lord, all the earth!" May the NOISE that comes from your whoopie cushion remind you to give thanks to God and bless His name! For He is good! I am thinking about you and love you so very much! XOXOXOX

Carter - Psalm 100 "Make a joyful NOISE to the Lord, all the earth!" Let the NOISE that comes from your whistle remind you that God loves you and so does Mommy! Praying for you! XOXOX

Isn't that hillarious?! Especially Ty's. I am still laughing as I type! Well, I will try to take pics this week while at the conference and update you all when I get back. I also still need to post about the scavenger hunt but I need to get help from Brenda on that as I don't remember everything! Please pray for us as we are gone that God will keep us safe and that He will do a great work while we are gone!

One more thing.........A HUGE THANKS to those watching my precious children! I appreciate you so much! May God richly bless each of you.

Last day of vacation

2008-07-21T16:19:00.019-04:00

Our last day of vacation was July 4th. We celebrated Independence, Thanksgiving, and a 40th Birthday! I know no one else can say that! I didn't journal this day so it may be a little hard for me to remember all the events. We started the day with pancakes and bacon which I enjoyed very much. After breakfast, we immediately got to work preparing our Thanksgiving dinner. Each year we have a Thanksgiving dinner together since our entire family can't be together to celebrate the actual holiday. It is usually on a Thursday just like the real thing, but this year it ended up being on the last day of vacation. While dinner was cooking, Brenda decorated our eating area with black in celebration of Brad's 40th, the kids swam and had a water balloon fight, and everyone else was busy secretly planning Brad's party. His actual birthday isn't until Oct, but we also celebrate upcoming 40th's (male 40th's in particular) as a family during summer vacation so the birthday individual can be inducted into the M.O.T.H. Society (Men Over The Hill) by Grandpa - More on this in a little bit. Our eating area was outside on the porch which overlooked the lake. We ate all our meals out there becasue there was not an eating area inside the condo. The only problem with this was the flies. They were very annoying and they flew inside everytime the door was open. Too bad it took us until the end of vacation to buy a fly trap.

Our theme for 40th's is Mark 12:30 "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength." We celebrate by doing things that relate to Brad's heart, soul, mind, and strength. Ed and Brian took heart. The girls took soul. And the young adult guys took care of mind and strength. Brenda had also planned and created a scavenger hunt for the end. The scavenger hunt idea came from 2 things: Brad getting lost in the middle of the night trying to find our condo and the young adults + Brad staying up late one night making fun of Alabamians in Wal Mart. It was a little crazy with all the last minute planning. Did I mention that I ate A LOT of cookie dough during this time? I was addicted! :)

Finally dinner time! We ate Turkey, dressing, corn, green bean casserole, mashed potatoes w/ gravy, rolls, strawberry gelatin salad, olives, stuffed celery....I think that's it. Funny how it takes hourS to prepare and 10 minutes to devour!

After clean up the games began. Well, actually, we started with 1 serious thing. Ed and Brian started with "heart" by sharing about the things we all love and appreciate about Brad. Then came "mind." Since Brad is a geothermal engineer that builds power plants, we made him use his "smartness" by challenging other family members to games that required brains. Brad and Justin: math problems. Brad and Erica: sudoku. Brad and myself: word search. Of course, I lost!

Next came "soul." Brad also owns a business called Silver and Blue Outfitters. It is a Nevada Wolf-----Pack (2 seperate words - make sure it is not 1 word!) sports store. you can check it out here if you want: http://www.silverandblueoutfitters.com/store/

***Side note: Brad if you get any business from my advertising

I want some commission :)!***

Anyway, he is a maniac fan and is a booster at the University. We were giving him a hard time because the grand opening of his store in the local mall actually occured while he was away with us. Because of his love for the Wolf-----Pack, us girls made up a dance to the school fight song. Ed sang it while the band played from Barbie's laptop. We made pom poms with toilet tissue rolls and tissue paper and had signs. We raided his suitcase (everything in it was Nevada Wolf----Pack stuff) and we wore his clothes as our uniform. Other people at the condos probably thought we were looney! Unfortunately, I didn't get any pictures of this with my camera. I will post some later if I can get my hands on them.

Now for "strength." The guys challenged him to all kinds of sport things. Brad and Ben: blongo. Brad and Nate: golf ball driving off the end of the dock into the lake. Brad and Jarred: push-ups. Brad and Davis: air soft gun target practice. Brad and Matt: wiffel ball.

Once back inside, Grandpa came out of the bedroom wrapped in a bed sheet and wearing a parrot hat. He was using a cane fishing pole with a flag attached (remember it was the 4th) as a walking cane. He pulled a homemade scroll made out of toilet paper out of his pocket and began the induction ceremony. Next M.O.T.H. - my husband in 15yrs - unless a female family member marries a way older man between now and then. Oh wait, it may be Nick, Becky's (cousin) new husband. This idea started a couple of years ago when Brian turned 40. When Carter saw these pics he said, "he's the master," about Grandpa!

We had so much fun and shared so many laughs, but the fun was just beginning! The grand scavenger hunt was last and boy was that the BEST! Since this post is getting kind of long, I will share about that in my next post.

Vacation Day # 6

2008-07-14T15:33:00.009-04:00

Today Nathan (brother), Annsley (sister), Daniel and Erica (married cousins), Justin and I left around 8:30 to go rent jet ski's from the same guy who rented us the boat. We rented 3 ski's and had them for 4 hours. We all took turns riding them. We had lots of fun (I should say the guys had lots of fun) driving close to someone and then making a sharp, unexpected turn which sprayed water all over the people on the ski close by. Spray is an understatement! I got hit by a tidal wave and thought for a second I had broken my nose and gone deaf all at once- thank you Jarred! We would also drive in circles to create waves so we could jump over them. We tried to tube, but it didn't work so well. Jarred and Davis about got whiplash. When this family is together, it is always a good time and things can get a little crazy. In the midst of the all the fun, 2 ski's crashed into each other. One of the ski's was badly damaged. Fortunately, no one got hurt, but then again maybe that would've been better because health insurance would have covered it (totally kidding)! Now we had to take the bruised jet ski back to the same guy we rented the boats from (remember we already broke the prop on the speed boat and ran the pontoon without oil). He was very nice about it and is faxing Brad the estimate. Jerry (that's the rental guy's name) is going to be so glad to see us next year - "Oh, great here comes that Platt family. What are they going to break this year?! I'm going out of business for approx 1 week!" I am positive he will remember us. What's a vacation anyway without some excitement and adventure? While people were waiting for a turn on the jet ski, we played in the pool - volleyball and chicken fights! We all ate BBQ for lunch (loaded with brown sugar) and then the guys went golfing. At night, we all met at the Drive-In. 1/2 saw Hancock and 1/2 saw Wall-E. And what do you know, Brian's car wouldn't start when it was time to leave. The perfect way to end our day :D!

Vacation day # 5

2008-07-10T15:58:00.012-04:00

Wed, 07/02, started as usual except this time I walked with Mom. Brian cooked breakfast with the help of Ed. We had potatoes (cooked with a at least a pound of butter), sausage, eggs, and toast. This time I did not refrain and I enjoyed every bit of it.

Brian and Tina left around 10am to go back to Birmingham (their home) for a Dr appt. We chose to have the reuion in AL this year because Tina is 8 mo pregnant and is not allowed to travel more than an hour and a half from home. This child is a special gift from God. Brian and Tina thought they were not going to be able to have any more children. They had been trying for close to 7 years. The Lord's timing is perfect! He is so good and is so faithful! I will never forget our 07 Christmas when they announced their pregnancy.

While they were gone the guys watched the children so we could go into Rome, GA to prepare for a surprise baby shower. We ordered her a cake from this place everyone talked about called the Harvestmoon Cafe (it wasn't that good for the price). Jillian picked it out - strawberry cake with strawberries inside. They wrote welcome baby Andy on the top. The babies full name will be Anderson Quinn Platt and he is due 08/07/2008 but Tina is shooting for 08/08/2008 :)

We went into a couple of really cute shops. We found this ting called a pee pee tee pee. I was going to buy it but forgot to go back and get it so we made our own. It is material sewed into the shape of a cone. The directions went something like this: Hold child's legs with one hand at a 90 degree angle. Cover his wee wee with the pee pee tee pee to prevent a sprinkle during diaper change. It was really funny!

We ate lunch at a tea room called Victoria Rose (I've never been to one before). Jillian (big sister) had a good time dressing up in different hats and boas. Unfortunately, I left my camera at home. We all ordered chicken salad.

On the way back to the car we found a really great upscale resale place. I went in with Barbie and bought a stroller for Tina for $27.00. The car seat I had already given her snaps right into it. This was an exciting find. Tina had asked me to bring my stroller so she could borrow it but we didn't have room for it. Because we spent so much time int he consignment store, we were rushed for the rest of the afternoon. They were getting back at 5pm and we need to have everything ready and decorated. On the way home we stopped by Big Lots, the Dollar Store, and good ole' Wal Mart. We got with 30 min to spare. Brian called and said they were running late so it gave us a little more time.

Tina seemed to be very surprised! Everything turned out great. We set the stroller up and filled it with all the gifts. We played a baby food game. Tina and Gma were the mommies and Brian and Brad were the babies. We blind folded both. The mommies had to find their babies by listening for their cry. Once they found them they had to feed them an entire jar of baby food (I chose squash). The first done was the winner. This was so funny I about peed my pants. The next game required thinking. Brenda made it up. She thought of a different way to say the name of baby items. We had to figure out what the item was. For example: liquid calcium container = baby bottle. We gave her a really hard time about that, but only because our team had milk bottle (which made more sense given the clue). Here was another crazy one: Butterworth of Cadillac. The answer was Syrup of Ipecac. Have you ever heard of that in your life??? Here was another one: Whitney Sphere. The answer: Cotton Ball. Remember Eli Whitney and the cotton gin? It was a really fun game with lots of laughs and controversy. The last game was a relay. There were 2 teams lined up boy-girl-boy-girl. The boy started by dressing a baby in a cloth diaper. He then passed to the girl toundress the baby. The girl then passed it back to the boy to dress again. If you dropped the baby you had to start over. Whoever finished first won. We had a wonderful time celebrating!

For dinner we had an interesting combination - chicken and lentils made by Becca (Matt's girlfriend) and hot dogs made by Ben. It was actually pretty good. Some of the gang ended the night with volleyball in the pool. It was a great day!

(Barbie's bruised arm after

tubing the day before)

Vacation Day # 4

2008-07-09T08:41:00.036-04:00

Tuesday morning, 07/01, I started the day once again with exercise. I could really get used to this vacation thing :) We left at 8:30 to go rent a speed boat. The rental place was at Chesnut Bay (where we are staying next year). Once we had the boat, we headed back toward the condos. We got REALLY lost! The map of the lake that was given to us was doing no good. We had no idea where we were in this HUGE lake. After about 45 min, we were able to flag down a boater for help. By the way - This was the only boater we saw the entire time we were lost. He graciously led us to our condos. I don't think we would have found it without him. It would have taken us hours. When we got there, some of the adults took the little kids out to tube. They were gone for a really long time. We were just beginning to wonder what was going on when we got a text saying they had broke down. The guy at the rental place met them with a pontoon boat and they traded right there in the middle of the lake. He was able to get the broke down speed boat started and he took it back to work on it.

The 1st group came back with the pontoon and a 2nd group went out. We had to take turns because there was so many of us. I was in the 2nd group. Justin was driving and was trying his best to throw me off. I was holding on tight and my arms were starting to BURN. Towards the end, I was starting to loose my grip and my body was mostly off of the tube. A force of water came and took my bottoms right off. Fortunately, because of the way I was positioned, I don't think anyone on the boat saw, but they sure were laughing when I held my bottoms up in the air! When I got back on the boat Carter was crying. He had been crying the entire time. I thought I would be able to calm him down, but I couldn't. Nathan got on after me and he started again, "I want Nathan." Back to the condos we went to put him down for a much needed nap!

(1st pic: Carter happy)

Davis hopped on the tube with Nathan and we were off again. After they got done, Annsley and I went. It was really fun with 2 people because you crack up and scream the entire time. The down side is you get thrown off more often. We were all taking turns and having a great time until Justin turned off the boat so Brad and Barbie could get on. They finally got situated and the boat would not start! We sat there for at least 10 minutes praying. None of us had cell phones and here we were just floating in the lake. Finally, it started. We headed back to the condos to drop off and pick up.

Nathan drove this time so Justin could tube. When we took off the ladder on the back of the boat was left down and it threw all these little fish onto the deck. The kids had fun with that. Soon, the boat started beeping obnoxiously and would not quit. We tried calling the rental guy for help but he didn't answer. Justin finished his ride and then he and I rode together. This was our last trip out as the boat was continuing to beep and our rental time was almost over. We headed back to the condos for the last time to drop off and then took the boat back. When we got there the guy said to never drive the boat when you hear a beeping. Oops! It was low on oil. We were also told that we had broke something on the prop of the speed boat earlier that day. Because of all the problems, he didn't charge us for the damage. It was an eventful boating day to say the least!

We had spaghetti for dinner which was so good probably because we were all so hungry! We ended the night with a blongo tournament which Ed and Ben won.

(Tyler holding a little fish)

(Blongo Tournament)

Vacation Day 3

2008-07-07T20:18:00.012-04:00

A week ago today, 06/30, I started my day with another run. I found that it is a lot easier to be consistent with exercise while you are on vacation. G-ma cooked pancakes and bacon and I again chose to refrain. Almost the whole crew (there were 22 of us total), left after lunch to check out another rental facility across the lake called Chesnut Bay. They came back raving about it and because it was so nice Grandma and Grandpa went ahead and put a deposit down to hold 3 houses for 09 family reunion. It is more of a family friendly place with lots to do. They have a trampoline in the lake, a 125 foot tube slide into the lake, tennis courts, basketball courts, a fitness facility, an ampitheatre, and kayaks and paddle boats. I chose to stay back while the fam was gone. I was able to sit by the pool and read which was nice.

(Place we are staying next year)

While I was taking a nap, more swimming, fishing, and game playing took place. Tyler caught his biggest fish ever and the biggest fish of the entire week.

(fishing - 3rd pic: Tyler's fish)

For dinner, all the married adults went out. We call it our "adult dinner." This is an annual event that only happens once the whole week. We do not allow the single adults to go (their our babysitters) so we are thinking about changing the name to "married adult dinner." We have to figure out the requirements for this dinner because it is starting to cause some conflicts :) What if the singles never get married or what if it is not for a long time??? We went to the Santa Fe Cattle Company in Rome, GA. Where we were staying was only 9 miles from the GA line and only 30 min from Rome (the biggest city near by). Santa Fe was very similar to a Roadhouse. It was one of those places where you throw peanuts on the floor. We ended the night at the cinema with Get Smart. Before bed, almost everyone had root beer floats. I didn't have my own cup, but ate some of Justin's. It makes me feel better when I just have a "few bites" of someone else's instead of having my own. That way I can say, "I didn't have any." :) I got teased about this quite a bit. Nathan (Justin's brother) arrived just before midnight. He couldn't come with us on Sat because of "school," but I think it was really the volleyball tournament he wanted to play in on Sun. Either way, we were glad to see him.

Family Vacation Day 2

2008-07-06T22:20:00.008-04:00

A week ago today, 06/29, I woke early to run. Running in Al-a-BAMA can be kind of scary. Obviously, they don't have leash laws there because dogs were loose and barking at me. I was able to scare them off though with my deep toned yell and pointed finger (GO AWAY, STOP)! We went to Wal Mart when I got back for our HUGE shopping trip. Each year we prepare most all the meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) at our lodge and then at the end of the week we split the cost between the number of people. 2 hours and almost $500.00 later we returned back home. This was only the 1st trip to the store.

Healthy eating is so hard when Grandma is around. We ate cinnamon rolls for breakfast this morning. I chose to refrain, but was very tempted. The rest of the day we just relaxed - swam, fished, played blongo, played bean bag toss, swam, swam some more.... It is nice being in a small town because you don't feel like you constantly have to be doing something. The closeness shared between this family is so rare and special and is one to be treasured. Just being with each other is a good time. I am so very grateful to God for blessing me with such an amazing family.

For dinner we had ham, cheese potatoes, baked beans and rolls. G-ma uses an unknown amount of brown sugar in her beans. We always joke with her about brown sugar. If it is good, it has brown sugar! After dinner more, swimming, fishing, and game playing. Davis (our cousin) had dropped a bobber into the lake. His dad and Justin held him upside down by his ankles, over the railing of the dock, so he could get it. On the way up he dropped it and had to go down again. We all got a kick out of this. Everyone said, "OHHH!" and started laughing when he dropped it.

I decided to go to bed early. Justin went upstairs to condo # 3 and played XBox until at least 1am. I kept waking up because I could hear them laughing. When he came to bed I was awake. He said, "HONEY!" Unbeknownst to me, for the last 3 hrs I had been sleeping on a card he had left under my pillow. It was our Anniversary and he had left me a surprise card. I am so thankfuk for him and for the way he loves and cares for me.

(2nd pic: Blongo, 3rd pic: Bobber catching , 4th pic: sunset)

08 Family Vacation Day 1

2008-07-06T20:52:00.008-04:00

June 28th we left for our annual family reunion. This year it was in Cedar Bluff, AL. We drove with Mom and Dad Edwards and Annsley. When you are with the Edwards, car rides are always fun! We started the morning off with a trip to the new Einstein Bros. Bagels in Riverside. This could become a new tradition (we stopped there last yr too). For lunch, Mom had planned a nutritious picnic consisting of peanut butter and jelly, chips, and oreos. We were going to actually stop at a park somewhere, but because of our very frequent potty breaks (which tested Dad's patience) we decided to have our picnic in the car. When Mom started breakin' out the food, we realized we had no peanut butter. So....we had to stop AGAIN. We had no luck at the 1st gas station or the 2nd gas station so we went to a grocery store. I (the queen of decision making, HA!) was sent inside to make the purchase. I decided to try and be funny and hide the peanut butter so the family would think the store didn't have any either. I could not hold my laughter as the peanut butter was slowly slipping down my pants. Dad said, "now that is truly some peanut BUTTer!" Shortly after lunch, our tire blew right outside of Atlanta. It was very scary! Justin did well controlling the car across 3 lanes of fast moving traffic into the emergency lane. Fortunately, I have AAA (big thanks to my grandparents). We were fixed and back on the road within 35 min. The customer service and promptness was amazing.

(2nd pic: AAA guy, 6th pic: Our port-a-potty)

Because of potty trips, a blown tire, and several traffic jams, the trip was way longer than expected, but it was definitely memorable. When we got there the VERY SMALL town of Cedar Bluff was having there annual 4th of July festival a week early. You could defintely tell we were in Al-a-BAMA! Driving through the town was like a scene right out of Sweet Home Alabama - they even had a big water tower just like the movie. The only exception was this one was decorated with Santa and Christmas Lights!

As soon as we arrived at our condo, the kids ran straight for the pool like they had never seen one before. After we were all settled and the kids swam off some of their excitement, we decided to go in to town and end our day with fireworks - we were celebrating our safe arrival :)

Homeschool

2008-06-24T16:43:00.003-04:00

As many of you already know, I homeschool our children. On my last blog, http://pronetowander.blog.com/, I shared how challenging last year was for me. I found this today and thought it was so good. It was written by Jamie Leach, a soon to be pastor at Covenant Life Church and principal for Covenant Life School. He says successful Christian education comes by the training of both the child's heart and mind. I still do not know what next year will look like for us, but my desire is to give attention to and to develop the heart of my child. I am trusting, by God's grace, that next year will bear much fruit in both of our lives.

"I have been a Christian school educator for almost twenty years, but I have also taught many home school classes in church. I have found that the requirements for successful Christian education goes beyond any curriculum and its format. Whether a child's education takes place in the community of the classroom or is customized in the family's kitchen, it is not just the presentation of facts and information but the training of both the child's heart and the mind. Therefore, parenting is a critical factor in any education. Consistently I have found a great correlation between faithful students and faithful parents. Educational choices will vary, their strengths and weaknesses will present differing challenges to the parents, but the key to success in any of them lies in the attention and development given to the heart of a child. There are no educational choices that will guarantee your success as a parent. We must trust first and foremost in the grace of God. We find that grace in the cross of Christ and in fellowship with one another in the shadow of His cross."

Part 2 Na Testimony

2008-06-16T08:16:00.002-04:00

Sorry it took me so long to get Part 2 posted. I encourage you to go to the New Attitude website and listen to the messages. Click on 2008 Conference on the left of the page.

continued from part 1................I want to give myself to the Word and I want to Labor to know him. Labor means work. Our generation is the most biblically ignorant in history. Piper asked us not to waste our life by being lazy. He told us that we must die to the notion that we don’t have to work hard or think hard in order to obtain spiritual progress. He encouraged us to use our brains. The Lord will give us understanding in everything. He said that there is such thing as regressive sanctification. You must keep swimming in the river (the world and its influences). If you stop, you will go backwards. We cannot make progress in our spiritual life until we are confident that God is 100 percent on our side. He freely gives us all things. He is not against us no matter the circumstance or event. We must fight to believe this, not to make it true. We must fight to see glory when there is doubt. In order to fight, we must be people of the Word so we can pull out our swords and stick our feelings with God’s promises. This requires memorization which I have already started with my family. I am motivated to make God and His Word my passion because I am deserving of judgment and wrath, but instead get life and breath and every good thing because God sent his son to die in my place for all my sins so I could be completely forgiven. I have been adopted into God’s family and am a child of God. I am no longer a slave but a son and if a son than an heir.

This conference came at the perfect time for me. God is so good and kind. I pray that from here forward I will never read my Bible the same way again. I want it to be my joy and the delight of my heart.

Na and friends...........

2008-06-11T15:06:00.006-04:00

Over Memorial Day Weekend, we were in Louisville, KY for the New Attitude Conference. This is an annual conference that exists to help Christians believe, live, and represent the truth with humility (humble orthodoxy). It is grounded in the churches of Sovereign Grace Ministries. The goal is to equip people and point them back to their own local church communities.

This year's theme verse was Jeremiah 15:16. We spent 4 days examining the Bible and its implications on our lives. I am going to share with you my testimony from Na. But, before I do so, I want to tell you who we went with. God has been so kind to bless my husband and me with incredible friends that love the Lord and seek to glorify Him in all they do. Most attend our church and all are single - funny, huh? These people have become some of our dearest friends. They teach us by their example what it means to live a life passionate for the Lord Jesus Christ. Their trust in the Lord's sovereignty and wisdom for their lives is one to be commended. We are motivated by each of them and thank God for their friendship which we don't deserve. Thank you guys for loving us! We pray that the Lord will continue to grow our friendship and we look forward with anticipation to the times to come. Prov 17:17 "A friend loves at all times"

Now for the 1st part of my testimony.........I'll post the rest tomorrow.

You know how the Lord sometimes uses other people’s circumstances to change you? That is what happened to me before Na. The Lord began to show me, in a way I didn’t expect, what it meant to TALK to myself about the unchanging truth of who God is and what He’s accomplished for us at the cross instead of LISTENING to myself and my constantly changing feelings and circumstances. Often times, I was allowing my feelings to guide my thinking and, therefore, would react sinfully to situations in my life. I was definitely giving, to my children in particular, a distorted perception of God through my ungodly responses. CJ said that we need to question, rebuke, and challenge our souls when they are in turmoil. Most of the time our unhappiness comes from listening to ourselves instead of talking to ourselves. We have an internal ceaseless conversation with ourselves everyday. We have to learn to talk truth to ourselves and it requires effort. Our troubled souls will not be immediately cooperative; they need continuous addressing with the Truth. It requires repetition and perseverance. In order to practice this, I have to be feeding my soul every day which is something I have never consistently done. The Lord has kindly been convicting me of this since the beginning of the year. I use the word feeding because Josh Harris said we eat what we trust, what is healthy, good, and nurturing. I get really excited about my food and my desire is to have this same excitement for God’s Word. I was really awakened when he told us the story of Jahoiakim. Jahoiakim burned God’s Word. Josh said this is something none of us would do, but isn’t it in a sense what we are doing when we ignore it – when we don’t read it? It is encouraging to know, as Josh reminded us, that God will meet us right where we are. His Word speaks perfectly even when we aren’t doing perfect. He will draw near to us if we draw near to Him. Eric Simmons said if we love Him, we will love His Word. He asked – Do you look for yourself in the scriptures? I am not sure if I do this, but I think I can sometimes get overwhelmed with all the things I am not doing right. I learned that the Bible is a story of all God did for us not a list of “to-do’s” for God. This was so good for me to hear. It is all about Him not me. As Paul said to Timothy, I need to keep learning, believing, and studying, no matter the battle, not only because it is a command, but also so I can be equipped to help others, to defend my faith, to train my children and to mortify sin in my own life. It is not about me and my selfish ambitions. God’s Word reveals Jesus Christ and the salvation He offers................ to be continued

Christine