Come Meet The Oliphint's

Beauty

2011-02-03T12:09:00.001-07:00

I have been loving and enjoying the beauty in our sky these past two weeks.

HERO

2011-02-02T14:26:00.000-07:00

And drum roll please.........

THE HERO IS....

I FINALLY get to TELL! Christoffer got the SIXTH Grade HERO Award! He will be told today (2-1-11)! Tommy and I had to keep it a secret. He gets awarded at the ceremony tomorrow (2-2-11)! How he got chose, you ask?! Each 6th grader had to write an Essay on who was their hero and why! HE WON! Letter from the Principle below.......

Christoffer with his HERO Award.

Christoffer with Mrs.Winterstein (Principal)..............

Hello Mr. and Mrs. Oliphint, We are having our first annual Sunset Hills Elementary School HERO award assembly this Wednesday, and Christoffer will be one of our 6th grade students who will be recognized. I apologize for the late notice but ...we have been busy scoring the hundreds of student essays. Please keep this quiet until tomorrow, when we will be notifying students in person. We welcome you to attend our entire school presentation this Wednesday at 10:00 on the field.
Your son is amazing! Thank you, Karen Winterstein-Principal

Mrs. Butler (school counselor) with Christoffer. She helped start this new program and was one of the readers of all the 100's of essays that were wrote.

We took the special guy out to Dinner to his favorite place! Olive Garden.

Jaxxon wanted to hang with Chris at the Awards Assembly.

It reads...SHES (Sunset Hills Elementary School) Leaders.

Every 6th grader had to write an essay on someone they thought was a hero to them. (the person had to be another 6th grader) The students had to write about who was their hero and why they were a hero to them. It had to be based on the six pillars of character and how they act with integrity even when no one is looking or around. They had to pick a student who they look up to. Who demonstrates all the pillars of character at all times. The Six Pillars are, Trustworthy-ness, Fairness, Respect, Citizenship, Responsibility, and Caring. There is over 120 kids in 6th grade.

His SPECIAL shirt! Love the back!

Christoffer wouldn't stop taking pics with his Momma. So Daddy kept snapping the camera. I have a bunch of silly ones. He was being such a ham in the resturant. I think he was still on his "high" from the day.

Daddy and Chris.

Niccolas Turns 9

2011-01-29T12:37:00.002-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY NICCOLAS

We celebrated his birthday a little late......

Maybe getting to old for Chuck E.?

Getting ready for the tickets to start flying.

Never to old for a Dinosaur Cake.

Ticket Machine.

Family friend Leanna with Chuck E.

Painted The Sky

2011-01-26T08:36:00.000-07:00

He paints the sky for me to see His majesty!

HAPPY 9TH BIRTHDAY

2011-01-14T16:37:00.002-07:00

Happy Birthday Baby!

He is a Miracle Boy! We are so Thankful for you!

Our New Black and White Friend

2010-11-14T10:26:00.007-07:00

Jaxxon and Morganne LOVED Shamu and the Dolphins.

This is how Jaxxon looked the entire time at Sea World. Huge Smile!

Nana enjoying her first time at Sea World.

Niccolas and Christoffer enjoyed learning about the Whales.

Christoffer trying to look as tall as his Daddy. (standing on a curb!)

Trick or Treat! Their bags were so FULL.

Feeding the Stingrays.

These things are EVIL.

Another BIG First

2010-11-13T20:33:00.012-07:00

We decided to visit a certain BIG, BLACK and WHITE Whale who lives in San Diego.

Not only my kiddos first time at Sea World, but my Mom's! Best Halloween Ever!

October 31, 2010-November 1, 2010

(Posting the rest of the pictures in another post!)

The GRAND Hike

2010-11-06T23:13:00.011-07:00

For MORE fun pictures of our GRAND adventure, I have almost all of them uploaded on my Facebook Page.

Makin' A Come Back.......again

2010-11-04T15:51:00.006-07:00

HERE we are! Again! Gonna try this whole blog thing out one more try. Last time was not a success. This year has been filled with many new memories, accomplishments, trials, blessings, friendships, changes, challenges, adventures, and hurts. I thought that I would post some pictures from one of our BIGGEST accomplishments.

THE GRAND CANYON!

Tommy, my Mom, the Kiddos, and I drove up to the Canyon on Wednesday. We stayed in a sweet little hotel inside the Grand Canyon park. Tommy and I got up Thursday (early) morning, met our friends for breakfast, caught the shuttle to our trail, then hiked down to the bottom of the Grand Canyon. We hiked the South Kaibab down to the bottom of the canyon. Camped at Bright Angel Campground. Woke up Friday morning and started our hike out. We hike Bright Angel trail up.

Here we are waiting with our friends to catch our shuttle to take us to the start of our trail. Our friends ROCKED the trail down and out. Average time hiking down is anywhere from 4 to 5 hours. They made it in 6. Tommy and I made it in 7. See somewhere, somehow, down the trail, I damaged my knee. Thank God for my SOLID ROCK of a husband. Because coming up the trail the next day, half way up, my knee totally blew out. I wouldn't have been able to have done it with out him. Average time coming up outta the Canyon is 8 hours. Our buddies ROCKED it out in 8. Tommy and I took 12 HOURS. It was rainy, cold, windy, and VERY dark when we finally reached the top. I learned a lot about myself, my marriage, and my husband on this awesome experience! It ended up being a truly huge blessing. My Mom was waiting up at the top for us. We were a sight for her sore eyes she said. When she saw our head lamps, for down afar, she started cheering us on and up the rest of the climb, by yelling and screaming. She was shouting out words of encouragement for us to finish the last part. My Mom and kiddos stayed in a hotel at the top while we hiked and camped. We went back to the hotel, showered, ate, and fell hard asleep. Saturday we adventured around the top of the canyon, explored with the kiddos and looked down at our great overcoming. Bought some great canyon stuff, ate lunch, and headed back home.

THANK YOU Mel and Edd for the great memories! Love you guys. (I have a ton of pics, so I am going to make a post with just all pics after this.)

OCT. 20-23, 2010

Tryin' This Again

2010-02-24T14:49:00.003-07:00

I am jumpin' in and going to try this blog thing out again. It's been awhile, so here are some pics of the kiddos from Dec. 2009.

Wordless Pics.

2009-08-29T08:46:00.002-07:00

These pictures are just amazing to me. These two very precious pictures were taken by my friend Erica. These pictures are of Jaxxon are of when he turned One. I can't thank you enough Erica for capturing such priceless memories for me and my family. What a special time and moment that was for me, his First Birthday. I can't wait to get them and see all the wonderful work you have done with them, just for us. Thank you, Thank you!

First Day of School

2009-08-26T09:49:00.003-07:00

AUGUST 10, 2009

I can't believe that 3 out of 4 are in School. They are growing up fast.

Niccolas! First Day of 2nd Grade. He has Mrs. Robb. We are so happy, excited, and thankful for that. Mrs. Robb was Christoffer's 2nd Grade Teacher and his Teacher again last year for 4th Grade. We are thrilled that she went back to 2nd Grade just in time for Niccolas to be able to get her too!

Christoffer! Can't believe that he is in 5th Grade! Where does the time go? This year we got Mrs. Blunier. We are thanking God for this. She is wonderful and is highly wanted. She is out for the first 6 weeks for maternity leave right now. Can't wait to have her in the class.

Miss Morganne! Breaks my heart to have her gone from me all day. She started Kinder this year. She crys every morning that she leaves me. She is so precious. She does love school though. Morganne has Mrs. Connelly!! YAY! Mrs. Connelly was Niccolas Kindergarten Teacher that we fell in love with.

Here she is right before I left to go home. She is making a "little Mommy" to carry around with her all day, so that if she misses me I will be right with her. Mrs. Connelly reads the book, "Eliza's Kindergarten Surprise" the first day of school. We bought the book when she read it to Niccolas' class. In the book the girl makes a little Mommy that she can carry around with her all day and pulls it out of her pocket when she is sad. Niccolas still has his "little mommy" that he made.

HEALED!

2009-08-13T16:08:00.002-07:00

I am still sitting here in shock after getting off the phone with Melissa. But know that.....NOTHING, NOTHING, NOTHING....absoultly NOTHING is TOO BIG for OUR GOD! Angela Olivas is HEALED! HEALED! HEALED! God healed her precious, precious heart!!! PRAISE PRAISE PRAISE!!!!

Here is a letter that I am posting from Melissa. I thought I couldn't say it any better than her!! I'm sorry to write 2 times in one day. The cardiologist team and the transplant team have gotten together and compared notes. The transplant team didn't find anything wrong with Angie. I was frustrated with them. After her cardiologist talked to them and compared his notes of her condition with the more recent test results, she has been healed. Her heart is normal and she doesn't need a transplant! I can't even believe it as I write it. God is sooo good to us! The doctors said that her heart has "healed itself." We know that our loving Father has heard the prayers of all of you and touched her heart. It's like the skies opened up and the sun has shone down on her future. She can plan for college and have babies. (eventually :D )Thank you all soo much. We will remember the kindness of friends and strangers alike for the rest of our lives. May God bless each of you as much as He has blessed us this day. :)

Missing You

2009-06-27T21:44:00.005-07:00

I am missing my friend Rachelle. She went to visit family. She has been gone since May. She won't be back until August. Way too long, if you ask me. (I am selfish) Please come home. Please. There is so much to tell you. Talk about. I am missin' out on that sweet Alayna so much already. I wanna feel her kick. Hear her sweet little heart-beat. Plus, this Auntie can't wait to throw her and you a sweet little shower!! I haven't called ya, cause, it's too hard to talk to ya. I learned that the last time you took off. I think I may just have to break down and call you this week though. I miss you bunches!! Enjoy your Mom and family. Kiss sweet little Aston for me. Remind him of us here. Can't wait to have you guys HOME!! Keep updating your blog. I check it everyday!! I love to look at all the new pics of you guys. Looks like you guys had a blast on Aston's birthday! Love you!! Sending you ((HUGS))!!

Isn't she the most beautiful pregnant MaMa you have ever seen!?!

Fundraiser For Angie

2009-05-27T11:42:00.003-07:00

We are starting to get our fundraisers in full gear. Please help support Angela. She is in need of a heart transplant and with that comes BILLS that Insurance doesn't all pay for before and after Transplant. When this is all said and done, it will be over 1 million dollars. Thank you Jesus that, that won't be all out of pocket cost. The money that will be donated to Angie for her medical bills will be held with an organization called COTA (Children’s Organ Transplant Association). They will only pay out the money if it is for a medical need. They also will give Angie Grants as she reaches and raises certain goals. How awesome is that! COTA is a NON-PROFIT organization!

The Children’s Organ Transplant Association helps children and young adults who need or have had a life-saving transplant by providing fundraising assistance and family support. Learn more about COTA and their work to ensure that no child or young adult is denied a transplant or excluded from a transplant waiting list due to lack of funds. To read more and learn about this great organization please just click on the name COTA.

We will be selling Blush Candle's starting June 1st. 50% of the proceeds will be donated to Angie! That is so awesome! Please let your house get super stinky then June 1st contact me for some great smelling candles. If you live in AZ, I would be happy to deliver them to you! For any others that are out of state, just email me your name, shipping address, order, and e-mail address. I will give the info to the Valerie and she will contact you and send you an invoice via Paypal with the total including shipping cost (won't charge anything extra). The shipping cost will depend on how many candles and your shipping zip code. She will then ship the candles to you after the end of the fundraiser. She will make sure that Angie gets the 50% of the sale.

To get a hold of me for any questions you have, please leave a comment or email me at fadinge@yahoo.com.

Here will be the Scents that you will be able to choose from for Angela's Fundraiser. There are 12 summer scents: Aloha, Blackberry Vanilla, Clean Linen, Lavender & Sage, Mandarin & Mango, Orange Blossom, Pineapple Vanilla, Pomegranate, Sweet Pea, Snickerdoodle Cookie, Sun & Sea, and Vanilla Bean.

When we get closer to the date...I will post prices. Here is a little bit about what to expect with BLUSH CANDLES........

Every Blush candle is hand-poured using the finest ingredients and time-tested manufacturing techniques. Smooth, creamy waxes are infused with rich fragrance oils to make our extraordinarily scented candles. The result is a candle that disperses intense aroma throughout an entire space while lit, and continues to smell remarkable long after the candle is extinguished.

If you're like me, you've probably had to make some changes because of the economy. We've definitely been spending more time at home - so I think it's important to make your home as comforting and relaxing as possible. Blush Candles can make your home feel like a spa retreat at an extremely affordable price.

Blush Candles are perfect hostess gifts and teacher presents. They are also wonderful products for Realtors. In fact, Valerie first discovered Blush Candles when her realtor brought one over for her open house. She loved the way the aroma lingered even hours after everyone had left!

Thank You for your time!! Your prayers!! Your support!! The Verses! Encouraging Words!! Please keep them coming. They mean a lot to Angela and the family. A huge THANK YOU VALERIE for all your help with the candles. Valerie is the consultant for the Blush candles. She has ROCKED! Doing much more than what she should. Thank you for helping raise money for our sweet girl, Angie.

Angela Olivas

2009-05-18T13:47:00.010-07:00

It's taken me a while to post this, as to every time I start to write, I can't help but tear up.

This is Angela, also known as Angie. She is the daughter of some dear friends of ours. We have come to love her like our own. Our kiddos adore her and can't wait to have Angie come babysit for them. They ask, "when are you going on a date, so that we can have Angie come over?" Nothing like pushing us out the door! She is a beautiful 15year old, Sophomore in High School, who loves Jesus, her family, and friends.

Angie went to have a simple procedure done at Phoenix Children's Hospital here in AZ, only to come out with a not so simple outcome. It was the hardest news that I have heard. Shocked overwhelmed me and sadness hit hard and fast. See Angie was diagnosed with Restricted Cardiomyopathy. What that means, in short, is she will have to have a Heart Transplant.

I am asking that you please keep the Olivas' family and her in your prayers. This is a long road ahead for Angie. Emotionally, Physically, and Financially. If you would like to know more about this precious family, keep updated on her progress, know more about what Restricted Cardiomyopathy is, and or leave encouraging words and or verses, please check out her Blog. She checks the comments often and looks forward to them, even if you don't know her. The comments not only touch Angie, but bless the family as well. You don't have to have a Blog yourself to leave her comments. If you have Facebook, there is also a Prayer Chain for Angie that you can join (free), to just let her know you are praying for her.

I will keep updates off and on about Angie on here. But for the most part, please, check out and read here on her Blog.

2nd Stop. 1st Day At Six Flags. 4th Day Of Trip.

2009-04-25T21:00:00.010-07:00

Monday and Tuesday, March 23rd and 24th 2009

Six Flags Magic Mountain was our 2nd stop on our trip. We were able to be there for 2 days. This was my first time here. When we first got into the park I had to go potty. When we met back up, he excitingly told me what ride we were going to go on first. I was excited at the thought that he had a plan already. "Okay, which one?" I said. He then said "Superman!" Not knowing which one was Superman, I was all for it. That is until I saw which ride was Superman. It was the ride that I swore to myself that I wouldn't go on. I told him, "Umm, Honey, I can't do it. I really can't." He reached into his pocket and pulled out this flatten penny. While I was in the restroom, he snuck to a little shop and flattened a penny of the Superman ride. He said, "I did this, so we could remember our first ride." UGG! Oh, wait, I mean, AWE! Isn't that sweet! Who can say no to that. We went straight there. Waited in line. With my heart pounding super hard. I start panicking. I asked him to pray for me. He did. I then told him that the whole time we were on the ride that he better be praying for me. He did. Yes. I got on and did it. I told him he was slick. That if he wouldn't have done that, he would have never gotten me on. The Superman ride isn't very long at all. In fact, its super short and NOT worth the wait. It's what the ride does that is crazy and has everyone wanting to do it. Superman is a 15 passenger vehicle that carries you through a special effects tunnel, then accelerates from 0 to 100 MPH in 6 seconds before shooting you straight up a 41 story tower. The track length is 1, 315 feet and the vertical drop is 415 feet.

The first day we went on several fun rides. My favorite ride was the Tatsu. This ride was great. You face the ground. At times you were on your back when you would go on a loop. 3,602 feet of track, 62 miles per hour, 263 feet in plunges. Deep plunges, huge spirals and sharp dives that send you flying through the park. When you are getting on the ride you sit normal. Then before it takes off, the seats bring up your feet behind you, making you lay on your stomach, looking down. So that when you are on this crazy coaster you feel like you are flying. Fun, Fun, Fun Stuff! Another ride that we went on the next day, was a standing up roller coaster. That was pretty darn fun too!

Tommy likes to play games. He found this game called Stacker. Hubby LOVED it. You could win prizes such as, an IPOD Nano, IPOD Shuffle, Camera, PSP, DS Lite, etc. The cool part is that you get to pick which prize you want if you win. Tommy played $20 worth and WON! We picked the DS Lite, because 2 days before we left on our trip, Niccolas' DS Lite was Stolen. He was pretty upset and sad when we left about it. It was so exciting to be able to call Niccolas on our trip and tell him what Daddy did, just for him. The next day, while we were still at Six Flags, my Mom was on her way to AZ to take care of our kiddos for us. Since she had to pass right by Six Flags on the 5, she stopped and had lunch with us. That was such a blessing for me. I was upset that my Mom was going to be at my house, and I wasn't going to be there to see her or spend time with her. It was just enough time, to hold me off, until I was able to see her and spend time with her when I did get home. It was also cool, because we were able to give her the DS Lite to take back hime to our Nicci.

The night of our 2nd and last day at Magic Mountain, the 24th of March, we left our hotel and drove to our next stop. Where we checked into our new hotel, got all dressed up, and went out on the town. We went to whats called the Universal City Walk. There are tons of shops, restaurants, and is just the happen place. Which is all located right next to Universal Studios. The weather was cold. We enjoyed walking around and seeing all the sights. We had dinner, at a very special place for us. The Hard Rock Cafe. We ate there (not the same one) on our Honeymoon, 10 years earlier. Our waitress found out, not sure still how, that it was our 10 year Wedding Anniversary. After our dinner, she comes to our table, with a very big, yummy dessert with a candle in the middle. She told Tommy and I to get up and follow her. Okay, what was running through my mind at this time is, I was already preparing to be embarrassed at the waiters and waitresses singing to us at our table when she walked over with the dessert, but not this. What is she doing? Or even worse, "What are we going to have to do!" She took us across the restaurant and then banged loudly on this huge cymbal that was displayed. She yelled and screamed at the whole place to be quiet and look at us. She told them that we were there celebrating our 10 year wedding anniversary. She sang, the whole place clapping their hands, then all the people in the restaurant yelled, Congrats, How did you do it, Yeah, etc. You name it, we heard it. Embarrassed. Yes. Fun and glad it happened. Yes. Good memories and Good times.

Now off to the hotel to sleep and get ready for the next fun day...Universal Studios.

Superman Ride-Scary Looking-Huh?

This is us standing in front of the Superman ride, after I rode it.

Not sure why, but these are the only pictures that we took the whole two days at Six Flags. Having to much fun I guess.

Time

2009-04-22T10:22:00.003-07:00

Time Is Priceless, Yet, It Cost Us Nothing.

You Can Do Anything You Want With It, But Own It.
You Can Spend It, But You Can't Keep It.

And Once You've Lost It, There Is No Getting It Back.

It's Just Gone.

All This Time That You Are Choosing To Be Angry (if you have a name of someone, place it here), It's Time You Could Have Spent Being Happy. Time! It's Just Gone. And You Never Get It Back. I Mean, There, There, There's A Second, Gone, And You'll Never Have It Again. And There, There's Another One. Just Wasted. We Wasted It Just Holding On To Anger. Just Know This. Tomorrow When You Wake Up, You Will Be A Day Older And A Day Closer To Being Old Enough To Doing Whatever You Want. And Your Going To Get That, Whether Being Angery At (the name you used above) Or Not. It's Your Choice.

1st Stop. Las Vegas. 3rd Day. Leaving.

2009-04-19T12:00:00.002-07:00

Sunday, March 22, 2009

Sunday was our third and last day in Vegas. After being able to sleep in, without our little munchkins coming in and waking us up, we packed up our stuff, got ready, and left our wonderful room. We decided that before we headed out of town, that we would spend some time over in Old Vegas. What a great idea that was. I loved the oldness of the hotels. To hear all the stories and history that we heard about them too. It was so much fun. I would have to say that's where we had the most fun with our stay in Las Vegas. When we go back to Vegas. We want to spend more time down there. Won't sleep there though. They have really tried to fix it up so that more people will go there. We spent a couple hours there, then headed out of the state into California.

It doesn't look like it in the pictures, but it was very stormy when we were here. Very cold, windy, and rainy. We FROZE. We were dressed comfy for our long car ride to California later that day. While we were in one of the hotels, gambling at a table, the electricity went out. Craziness after that. It was out for about 2 minutes. Talk about all the security coming out of the wood works. Once the electricity came back on, the machines were on the fritz. Machines rebooting, Machines not wanting to work or come back on. Machines being too loose with their winnings. People waiting and sitting with their machines, not allowed to get up. Tommy and I were so glad we were at a table that wasn't effected by the electricity.

My hubby surprised me as well on our last day in Vegas. He had a little something special for me up his sleeve. I guess for 10 year Wedding Anniversary you are to give a gift of Jewelry. He did! It is the best thing that I could ever ask for. He put such thought into it. I just LOVE IT. It is Sterling Silver. On the front of the ring is has T, heart, A. On the flip side it has the number 10. T for Tommy. Heart for Love. A for Aimee. The number 10 for the number of years we were celebrating for our Anniversary.

On our way out of Nevada was NOT fun. Traffic that night was the LEAST bit of fun we had on this trip. We moved inch by inch into the state of California. We moved less than a mile in over an hour for hours! We got to our hotel A LOT later than we wanted and expected. I felt so bad for Tommy--he had to drive stick that whole time. It was nice to see our hotel when we arrived.

This whole white lattis stuff lights up at night. We didn't get to see it all lite up. What we hear though is it's pretty darn cool to see. Next time.

You wanna know what he was thinking and telling me? "Hurry Up. I am FREEZING!" We were on our way back to the car, we couldn't take it any longer.

Here is the back of my ring.

Front of my ring.

I love how he designed it. Cause I can see the T heart A when my hands are one way. Then the number 10 when I have my hand the other way. So I always am reminded no matter how I have my hand.

Forgiveness Is A Gift We Give Ourselves

2009-04-17T08:38:00.001-07:00

I have been so blessed by Comments, Emails, and Healing of Friendships and Relationship's since I have been obedient to God. It's truly a blessing when you actually listen to God and give it all to Him like he wants you to. Thank you for all who have responded to me and for your love and friendship.

Forgiveness is a gift you give yourself, because when you let go and lay the offense aside, the other person is no longer hanging around in your mind taunting you. The main person you hurt when not forgiving, is yourself. Give yourself the gift of obeying God today, forgive and lay aside, trusting Jesus to give you the blessing of His Peace.

In the heat of a crisis I once met with a woman who was spouting off every word in the book about her ex-husband. She had clearly been hurt, was openly angry, and was certainly holding a heart-full of unforgiveness towards him. Though she had been divorced for 8 years, this guy still lived in her brain every single day, distracting her with anger and bitterness.

As I listened, I knew that she would be forever stuck if she did not DO something different. And, from experience I knew that the “something different” she needed to do was to make a choice to forgive the offenses that she had endured in her relationship with him.

I understand this kind of choice because I have been in similar situations. Is it hard? YES. Do I usually WANT to do it? No! Why then would I do what I don’t want to do?

Simply because usually what comes naturally to me is the very thing that God wants to challenge, change, and conform to more of His Spirit’s life within me. Staying bitter, or holding someone at bay, is what comes naturally to me. But, this is clearly not God’s will. So when this women asked me to give her one good reason WHY she should forgive her ex-husband, I simply stated, ” because Jesus said to.”

All things that Jesus requires of us a Christ followers involve choice. We get to choose if we will give Christ that much authority in our lives or not. Sounds crazy doesn’t it? But, it’s true. Many of us, as Christians, spend a lifetime of holding on to hurts, bitter feelings, unjustices and the like. This tight grip on the hurt keeps us from receiving God’s best for us. His abundance of life, held out to us daily, involves receiving the Truth and having the courage to make the choice to walk in it.

Jesus will meet you at the crossroads of love and hate. He can and is willing to do a miracle of forgiveness in you. Ask Him.

Today’s Truth: 3:12-13

“As God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”

Key Points:

•We are different now that we are His
•We are chosen, for HIS purposes, Chosen Women
•Because we are different, we are to live differently
•Part of that difference is reflected in: compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, forgiveness.
•We are to choose forgiveness over hate, forgiveness over our own rights, forgiveness over unkindness.

Do you like gifts? I do. In fact gifts are my love language.

The best gift I can give myself is to choose to live God’s way. When I do, I have peace of mind and heart. My life stays uncluttered with things I can’t control anyway, and God has my attention.

Today’s Prayer :

Lord, Sometimes I just don’t want to do things your way. I am sorry for that. In the end though, YOU, is what I really want. I want more of Jesus, less of me, and to be filled with the knowledge of your will. Today I choose YOU, and Your Way in my life.

Forgive and Forget

2009-04-16T06:56:00.010-07:00

This is something that has been heavy on my heart. It's getting heavier. God is pressing more and more as to I am not listening or doing what He is wanting me to do and to change. I have been struggling for a while with issues in my life. Things that I want to change and do. Apparently this is something/an area in my life that I really need to focus on. A friend of mine knew that I was going through some issues. Having no idea what was going on in my life or what I was going through, she sent me this fantastic blog of a good friend of hers. She said she thought that I might want to check it out. The blog spoke volumes to me. There were two posts on Forgiveness. It touched me. I am struggling with this and I thought that maybe someone else out there is struggling with it too. Since this to me is one of the hardest things to do. I hope you love and enjoy it as much as I did and do. Thank you to my sweet friend.

Jesus said we were to forgive. He went as far as saying if we did not forgive, we would not be forgiven. Sounds to me like he was making a serious point of the subject. Yet forgiveness is often misunderstood, leaving people feeling like they shouldn’t do it, can’t do it, or haven’t done it. This tangled web is exactly what satan loves to do in believers lives. If he can get them confused, and they will put off doing what is right, live in shame over how they think they “should” be doing it, or entirely walk away from the subject!

Today’s Truth: Luke 6:37b

“Forgive and you will be forgiven.”

Forgive in the Greek language is the word aphiemi, which can be translated as follows: lay aside, forsake, leave, let go, let alone, omit, yield up, put away.

The confusion over forgiveness comes in two ways.

1. We think that we have to receive an apology to forgive. I don’t see this is Scripture, do you?

2. We think we haven’t forgiven if we still “remember” the offense. I don’t see Scripture say to forget, but to forgive which is to lay the offense aside.

Think how difficult it would be if forgiving required totally forgetting. I don’t think that could happen without a frontal lobotomy!

Practically speaking…just because we abstain from chocolate or our favorite food for a season, doesn’t mean we forget what it tastes like. The way it taste is in our memory, even though we are not currently digesting the food. In the same way, an offense will most likely be in our memory, but when we have forgiven or laid something aside,we are just not digesting, internalizing or holding tight to the hurt anymore. In other words, though we remember we were offended, we are no longer currently living in the offense. We have laid it aside, and given it up, because Jesus said this was the way to live.

Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend said,

“In fact our recovery and well being is intimately tied to our forgiveness of others. It does not good to receive grace with one hand, and deal out judgement with the other. We need to forgive not just with our will but from the “heart,” from our whole being. Forgiveness is a deeply emotional process whereby we deal with all our feelings. We must be honest about our hurt and anger and not close our hearts and become callous.” ( from the book, 12 Christian Beliefs that can drive you crazy)

Think about this today:

•Who is hanging around in my mind because I haven’t let them go and turned the offense I experienced over to God?
•What, if anything, have I believed about forgiveness that might be skewed or might be keeping me at arm’s length from true spiritual/emotional/mental freedom?
•Do, I think that if Jesus said it, it is important?
•If important, what must I do about it?

It takes courage to follow Jesus and forgiveness is an example of courage.

It takes courage to offer an apology and Jesus asks us to set things straight on our end.

It takes courage to let go and trust God.

Will you join me and seeking to be a courageous Christian woman, whose faith is not based on emotional feelings, but whose faith is based on what Jesus taught, how Jesus lived, and on the blood that Jesus shed?

Today’s Prayer:

Lord, search my heart. Am I holding on to anything or anyone that I need to let go of today? I desire truth in the inner parts of me. I want to be obedient and want to walk a live of forgiveness. Now, show me the practical steps in my own life and situations.

**THIS WAS TAKEN FROM ANOTHER BLOG. THEY ARE NOT MY WORDS/TEACHING/OR WRITING.**

CraZy DayZ

2009-04-15T18:08:00.006-07:00

This is little Morganne yesterday for CraZy HatZ Day!

CraZy DayZ WeeK at SchOOl

It's crazy days at school week. The kids LOVE this week. They look forward to it each year. This time Morganne was able to join in the fun. The Boys days of the week are different than Morganne's. Christoffer and Niccolas week schedule goes like this.

BOYS SCHOOL:

Monday: Sports Day-Wear a Sports Shirt/Hat

Tuesday: Twin Day-Dress like Someone Else

Wednesday: Crazy Hair Day

Thursday: Hat Day-Wear Favorite Hat or Crazy Hat

Friday: Spirit Day-Where your School Shirt

MORGANNE SCHOOL:

Monday: No School

Tuesday: Crazy Hat and Sock Day

Wednesday: Wacky Wednesday- Wear Miss Match Clothes or Wear Clothes Backwards

Thursday: Crazy Hair Day

Friday: School Shirt or Class Color

On Friday for both Schools they do all kinds of fun activites. Field day. Egg relay races. Bean bag toss. Etc.

Today: Backward Clothes Day.

Had to wear the Back-Pack backwards too.

I think she is so Beautiful!

The BOYS today for CraZy Hair Day.

Awe. Aren't they Pretty?!

Christoffer.

Niccolas.

Ball Game

2009-04-07T14:14:00.005-07:00

Take Me Out To The Ball Game!

Going to see the Diamondbacks play is a very special thing for us. It is one of the last things that we did with my Daddy as a whole family when he was alive. My Dad loved going to the D-Back games. He couldn't wait to take Christoffer to a game. Christoffer went to his very first D-Backs game as a very small baby. We had a lot of fun going with my parents to the games. My Dad and Mom had very nice seats with their Season Pass Tickets. When my Mom was here, we decided to go to a game as a special memory for my Dad. My Dad had a massive heart attack which killed him instantly on April 8th. They got his heart to start beating again after almost an hour of working on him. He was in a coma until April 10th, to which his heart gave away and went to be with Jesus for good. That was the day that I lost my Daddy. That is the day that is hard for me when it comes around. But for my sweet Mommy, April 8th is the hardest day. For her, that is when he left. To make new, sweet, special memories, and to help my Mom and I get through these 2 very tough days, we went to see our Diamondbacks play a game, April 7th. Christoffer LOVES it. Niccolas not so much. Morganne enjoys it. Jaxxon LOVED all the music and clapping. He did so great. Mom LOVED it and couldn't stop thanking us for taking her. Tommy and I enjoyed ourselves and can't wait for the next one!

We sat up high for several reasons. One reason, we weren't sure how little man Jaxx would do. On the 3rd level they have 2 play areas for kiddos that get restless. It's called Sandlot. Check it out. It's awesome.

NaNa, Christoffer, and Niccolas. Christoffer annoyed with pictures already. Niccolas happy as long as he has his Red Licorice. NaNa is excited for the game to get started.

Tommy, Jaxxon, and Morganne. Tommy wanting me to put the camera away. Sorry Babe. Jaxxon taking in all the sights and sounds. Morganne just being cute.

I Love this Boy! He is getting so big.

Jaxxon Riley was such a good boy. He sat there watching the game, snacking, dancing, and clapping. He loved all the music and sounds.

Niccolas was being a ham. Oh, wait, he always is. This is before Cotton Candy.

Enjoying the Game. He loves everything about the Game.

I Love this little Girl!

BUY ME SOME PEANUTS AND CRACKER JACKS!

Special People

2009-04-06T09:40:00.005-07:00

I can't believe that it's been a year already, since my Grandma and Father In-Law passed away. It's been great to see God carry us through the whole year though. It was even more great to see the great friendships and friends that stepped in to help us a year ago when we were facing all our trails. March 30th made a year for my Grandma and April 5th for Tommy's Dad, my Father In-Law. I just wanted to take a moment and thank God for helping us get through this year.

April 10th makes 9 years since my Daddy went to be with Jesus. I swear it just seems like a year ago for that day as well. He was so in love with Jesus and I have such great memories of him worshiping, praying, and loving our Lord. I am so thankful and grateful for those thoughts and memories. Thank you Jesus for these very sweet and special loved ones that you place in my life.

On Sunday, April 5th, we decided to do something special with my Mom and Tommy's Mom for these hard days that are in April. My Mom, Mother In-Law, Kiddos, Tommy, and I all piled up in our car and took a very nice trip to Prescott. We saw pretty sights, played at the park, had a great lunch, yummy ice cream, wonderful weather, and a nice drive.

1st Stop. Las Vegas. 2nd Day. 2nd Night.

2009-04-05T12:34:00.006-07:00

We woke up very early, (cause don't laugh), we did a Timeshare. Yup. We are Cheap. For listening to a 90 minute timeshare, we got to choose 2 Shows, $50.00 in Dining Money, and $25.00 in Gambling Money. Shows there in Vegas can be very pricey and we wanted to be able to go to at least one. After we got that out of the way (no we didn't buy) we explored the Las Vegas Strip, Enjoyed our Wonderful Hotel Resort, and went Shopping! The Fashion Show Mall is located directly across our Resort (mere steps) with fine shops such as Macy's, Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus and Sacs Fifth Avenue. We decided to do some shopping before heading back to our room to get ready for our Shows for the night. We were both excited to have run into a real Fashion Show. It was a blast to watch. Just like what you see on TV. Tommy even thought it was pretty cool and neat to experience. I can't tell you how much fun and how excited I truly was. Just that I was like a little girl all over again. I think I embarrassed Tommy a few times with my squealing, jumping, snorting, and grabbing at his arms. He was great and just smiled and went along with all my excitement and "firsts" on this trip.

We had a wonderful dinner at Treasure Island, wonderful shows at Luxor, wonderful time seeing all the sights and hotels, and just a wonderful time being with each other. This trip was a lot of firsts for me. My first time to Las Vegas, to take a Taxi Cab, see a Run-Way Show, those are just a few to say for Vegas.

I will leave this day with some pictures and saying this to my Hubby. "Thank you Baby for such a Wonderful time. I am still on a high from this time together and trip. You did an awesome job at planning it all. You treated me and made me feel like such a Princesses. I am so blessed and am so glad to have reconnected with you as a Wife and Hubby. I Love You more than the day we got married. You are my Best Friend."

Tommy and I on our way to our (stop laughing) Timeshare. We had to catch a bus at the Luxor to take us to it.

This is where we spent most of our time (besides at our Resort) and where we did our Shows. At the Luxor.

The Luxor.

Just some of the other hotels.

One of the Roller Coasters that they have there on the Strip.

This was my favorite looking Hotel. The Excalibur. I took way to many pictures of it.

All the pictures I took of this amazing hotel are from the backside though. I didn't get any of the front.

The Excalibur.

HERE are PICTURES of THE TRUMP HOTEL where we stayed!

I didn't take this picture. I just wanted to post it so you could see what I keep bragging about. Gilded with gold glass windows, the resort is adjacent to some of the city's best shopping, shows and resort casinos, and just steps to the exhilaration of the Strip. The Trump International Hotel and Tower soars high above the Strip. It rises 64 stories with great views of the city with a backdrop of surrounding mountains. The building houses 1,232 furnished suites and 50
penthouse suites complete with floor-to-ceiling windows, extensive spa and fitness center, exceptional dining and well-appointed amenities. All suites feature residential touches such as fully equipped European-style kitchens, spacious marble bathrooms with spa tubs and LCD TV with cable. Suites are designed with sleek contemporary furnishings and rich elegant fabrics. With the best part being a 100% smoke-free establishment.

From the parking structure across the street at the Mall.

This is the Trump Hotel's Lobby. Gorgeous!

Trump Lobby.

Real cut flowers everywhere through out the Trump Hotel. Fresh cut everyday.

Trump Hotel Lobby.

Outside of the Trump. This is where you pulled in to have your car parked. Yes, Valet Parking was all they had. It was fun to have it. We never had Valet before.

Valet-fun stuff.

This was our room. I didn't take this picture though. I got this off of the website. I looked at my pictures and couldn't find anything that really turned out very well.

I didn't take this picture either. The ones I took of our bathroom were real orange looking (posted in last blog). I wanted you to see the beauty that it really was. It looked just like this when we walked in. Well no water running or bubbles. We did that later. ;)

TV inside the Master Bathroom's Mirror.

Living Room and Dining Area.

Guest Bathroom.

Kitchen with little bar area in.

The door on the right is one of our front doors. The doorway you see on the left is the guest bathroom. The are between the bathroom doorway and the wood piece of furniture on the left is where you walk to go through the door to our Master Bedroom.

Pool Area at Trump Hotel.

Trump Hotel Pool

These last pictures of Tommy and I were taken at one of the shows we saw.

Taken at the Chris Angel BELIEVE Cirque Du Soleil Show.

Arrived at 1st Stop. Las Vegas. 1st Night.

2009-04-04T08:43:00.009-07:00

We arrived Friday Night, March 20th, in Vegas Baby! It was my first time ever being there. I was so overwhelmed with the excitement and the very cool buildings and sights, that I cried. Tommy was happy because of my reactions and was excited to experience it with me.

We felt so silly. We wore very comfy clothes for the ride there. Knowing that we would shower and change when we got to the hotel, for the night out on the town. We laughed our butts off when we arrived to our hotel. Oh, my. Were we UNDER dressed. We have never stayed at a 5 start hotel, let alone, really anything nice. The Trump Hotel is beyond anything I could have ever imagined! Beautiful! Perfect! I couldn't find a single thing wrong with it. We screamed and jumped together up and down for a good while in our "house" because we were so excited and in awe. We were just like little kids.

We stayed in a 1 bedroom suite. Seriously..it was an apartment! No joke. We had a bedroom bigger than ours at home. The master bathroom was bigger than our bedroom at home. The living room, which was a separate room, was bigger than any family room or living room that we have in our home. We had 3 flat screen TV's. The TV in the living room and bed room were a 52 in. The last TV was in our bathroom, built into our mirror. Marble tile everywhere in the master bathroom and guest bathroom. Yes, we had another bathroom, that had a full size (really big) shower. The kitchen had stainless steel for everything. The dishwasher, the fridge, sink, coffee maker, toaster, microwave, etc. There was a little bar and a dining area. The table was big enough to have 6 chairs around it. We had a doorbell even and 2 front doors. The first door was for guests and services. They would come to the 1st door and would have to ring the doorbell. We would open our hotel room door, walk into a little area, and then open the 1st door for them to be able to come in. So really, no one could bug us or knock on our door. Very private. It was a little tiring at times going through 2 doors to get into our hotel room. That's all the negative I can say though.

The whole hotel is smoke free! No casino in it either. It us a very clean and quiet hotel which is nice to come back to after being in all the loud smokey casinos.

Here is Tommy right after we arrived into our room. Here is what he was wearing in this very swanky hotel.

See the black square in the mirror? That was the flat screen TV. Have to say, I loved it. I could watch the news in the morning while getting ready. That shower also is bigger than what it looks like. When you walk in the shower it goes back a lot further. The mirror is bigger too. The toilet also had it's own little glass enclosure like the shower.

This was the tub. Very deep tub. When Tommy and I sat in it. All you could see were our heads. Our neck was even with the top of the tub. It took a very long time to fill up. That there window also looks a lot smaller in the picture than what it was. It was gorgeous. It was beautiful at night over looking the city of lights.

Here am I after I finally calmed down and cleaned up.

Here is my hubs after he cleaned up. Oo La La.

This is the sectional that was in our living room. There were end tables, a coffee table, pictures, and decorations too. Posing for a picture before we headed out for our 1st night in Vegas!

The pictures really don't do any justice to this hotel!

On The Way. 1st Day.

2009-04-03T20:35:00.004-07:00

Here is the Hoover Dam. This is what we saw Friday, March 20th on our way to Las Vegas. Our first sight seeing of the day. It was very nice weather. We got out and stretched awhile.

Happy Birthday Sweet Girl!

2009-04-02T20:20:00.003-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MORGI! WE CAN'T BELIEVE THAT YOU ARE FIVE ALREADY AND GOING TO KINDER THIS YEAR. WE ARE SO THANKFUL TO HAVE YOU IN OUR FAMILY. GOD HAS BLESSED US WITH YOUR SWEETNESS. YOU ARE SUCH A FUNNY AND SILLY GIRL. OUR ONE AND ONLY LITTLE GIRL! WE PRAY THAT YOU WILL CONTINUE TO HAVE A LONG AND HEALTHY LIFE. WE LOVE YOU SO MUCH AND ARE SO PROUD OF YOU.

Happy Birthday Arline!

2009-04-01T13:13:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday to my Mother In-Law! Have a great day!

Ten Years Baby!

2009-03-20T05:00:00.001-07:00

Today ten years ago, at 1:00 pm, I married my best friend. I can't believe that today is my Ten Year Wedding Anniversary! I am amazed at how far we have come and at all the many blessings. Here is my hubby and I on that day, ten years ago........

My Daddy, My Hubby, My Father In-Law

Thank you Baby for these last ten years! I am so proud of you. Thank you for being my best friend. I can not wait to spend another ten, plus, years with you. Thank you Jesus for this special gift, my Husband.

I am so Excited! Today, at 1:00, we are leaving for 11 days! Please pray for safety for us as we are traveling a lot of miles. Pray for our kiddos and our loved ones who will have them while we are away.

I LOVE YOU TOMMY! TEN YEARS BABY! THANK YOU!

Bebe 4

2009-03-13T15:58:00.007-07:00

I just wanted to post about my sweet Bebe number 4. Jaxxon Riley Lewis. He is growing up so fast and is such a pleasure and joy to have! My husband and I every night are laughing till tears come out from this little guy. He is so funny! He makes the BEST faces.

Can you believe that he is 16 months old already?

He loves to be outside!

This is him happy to be escaping the house. He knows how to open the front door. Scary for us, but a new found freedom for him. He thought he was slick this time. I caught ya!

Things He Says:

Mama, Dada, Bubu, No, Ut-Oh, Yea, Stinky, Diaper, BaBa, Hi, Yucky, Cookie, Thank-You, Nana, and Ball.

Picture Tag

2009-02-18T14:36:00.007-07:00

This is a tag that a friend posted for us to do, if we chose to.

It was a fun one. I tag Samya, Elissa, Charlene, and Andrea. Here is what you have to do, if you want to consider yourself tagged as well.

Go to your pictures on your computer and find the fourth folder in the fourth row and post the fourth picture from that folder on your blog and tag four friends.

This picture is my FAVORITE picture I think I own! I call it my "Speechless" picture! I hope you enjoy it. I think it speaks volumes!

This is Tommy cutting Jaxxon's cord.

UpperCase Living

2009-02-11T21:41:00.003-07:00

Hello my friends! Yes, Yes, I know. It's been over a month since my last post. I have been a busy little bee. I have been trying to take care of myself and my little family. To be honest with you there really isn't anything to talk about. Just health and life stuff. We are hanging on to Jesus for answers and trusting in Him fully. As you may know, my last post was praying for my Mom. That is another reason why I haven't posted anything new. There are people that have access to this blog that will try to find out information about my Mom or I and use it the wrong way. I have to be careful what I say and post for a while. Just pray for that situation. For my Mom.

I did want to post something special for my buddy Rachelle. She is an Independent Demonstrator for a company Uppercase Living. Let your imagination grow with Uppercase Living. Personalize your home with decorative expressions. The art of self expression. Make your space a reflection of the unique individual you are. Whether you identify with a deeply motivational thought, a beautiful embellishment, a bold image, or a combination of these, Uppercase Living expressions let you be who you are and let you express that uniqueness in your surroundings. To learn more about what Uppercase Living is, go to Rachelle's webpage.

Rachelle will be throwing an open house this Friday at her home to get started. It is a pretty cool thing! To check it out, visit her web page, just click here. If you have any questions or would like to throw your own party, you can contact her at her web page above. If you would like to join us at her Open House Party, this Friday the 13th, you can contact me and I will give you directions or you can contact Rachelle on her webpage. She will be having snacks and coffee for hanging out afterwards. Please come to join us for some fun and fellowship!! I promise you won't regret it!

I promise that I will be back on a roll with the blogging world in March. Thank you for sticking it out and waiting for me! Love you all!!

Mom.

2009-01-04T17:23:00.003-07:00

Please pray for my sweet, sweet Mommy tonight!

Lord, I just ask that you place your loving arms around my Mom tonight. Give her peace that only you can. Whisper in her sweet ear that you Love her. Place your hands of protection over her tonight. Help her have the greatest nights sleep tonight that she has ever had! Give her the comfort and peace that she is so needing right now. Lord, I pray that who she is with tonight will know the right words to say to her. That they will be able to provide the perfect shoulder to cry on. That the have an open ear to your voice and are able to speak your loving and comforting words to her. Be with her when I can't right now! My heart is breaking and I am hurting for her. Give me the right words to speak when she calls me. Thank you for my Mom! Thank you for what this year will bring for the both of us. I pray also for the other person who is involved with this. That you be with him tonight. Comfort him as his heart is hearting too. I pray that he finds You. That he would turn to You. I pray that he has peace with himself and that he doesn't choose to take what he may think is the easy way out. Lord, please give our family peace tonight.

Going On.

2009-01-02T19:35:00.004-07:00

What's been going on at and with the Oliphint's.

My Mom came down November 26th the day of my leg surgery to remove the mass. It was not originally planned for her to be here so soon. She was scheduled to come the 18th of Dec. Then because of me having another surgery, she decided to come down the 13th. God had other plans and we were blessed to be able to be her with us for Thanksgiving. Tommy left 5 days after that to go to Georgia. He was to come home to us December 14th. That didn't happen. I got my braces off December 16th AM and headed straight to the hospital to then have foot surgery. Tommy returned home December 18th. We had a great Christmas with my Mom! We were sad to see her go this last Sunday. I haven't been on the computer as to I have been in a lot of pain. I still am. I am only allowed to be up 15 mins. an hour. I still haven't been released to drive either. I have been able to check my Facebook and comment on that on my cell phone and do IM on it too. I have checked my email about 4 times on the computer, but can only be up long enough to read, not respond. I am so ready for this foot to be done. Please keep my Mom and I in your prayers. I am in a lot of pain and my blood is still weird. I see a Hemo. doc. this coming week. My Mom is going to have a rough couple of months ahead of her, so please keep her in your prayers.

Family Pictures 2008

2008-12-15T09:34:00.010-07:00

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU Erica for the great pictures once again! Our friend Erica took these great pictures of our little family! She has been such a blessing to us, as she has captured so many beautiful memories for us on film. The pictures below are some of Jaxxon's 1 year old pictures that Erica took for us as well. We are so grateful and thankful for these precious pictures! Can I get a "What, What!"

Details. Prayer.

2008-12-14T16:46:00.003-07:00

Hubby was suppose to come back from Georgia today. He didn't. They want him to stay longer. He doesn't know when he will be home. I am very sad. My kiddos are taking it hard! We are thankful and grateful that my Mom is here! I will be going into surgery Tuesday afternoon. Oh, and my little something that is suppose to happen the 18th is now going to happen Tuesday morning before my surgery! Whoo-Hoo! Keep checking back to see what all the excitement is about.

Please be in continued prayer for me. As I stated before, my doctor thinks that I could be losing blood slowly someway, somewhere, somehow. The plan was to get my blood taken again, take some pills for 4 weeks, get my blood retaken, then see the doctor and go from there. Things have changed. After I got my blood taken, the doctor called me right away about them. The results showed that my levels have dropped even lower. She wants me to get an IV of Iron and see a Hematologists. My insurance is a booger and with the holidays I can't get into see one until Jan. 5th. My doctor didn't like that it was so far off, so she wants me to get my levels taken this coming week again. If they have dropped any lower, it will be moved to an emergency level. I will probably have to get a blood transfusion. She said that they will probably do tests on my intestines and such to see if I am bleeding internally or something somewhere. I do feel like I am getting weaker. I am tired and dizzy too. She told me that this is something to really watch because I could have a heart attack if there isn't enough blood to pump, along with other really important things. As far as the mass. I saw my surgeon Tuesday. He said that the mass was not cancer! Thank you Jesus. But that he scrapped tissue and cells from the whole area around where it was sitting in my leg. He said there were Pre-Cancer cells. He has ordered for me to go get an MRI scan of my entire body to see if there are any other little growths growing. He said that he doesn't want to scare me, but my blood issues could be telling us something. That there could be a little growth growing somewhere that has turned to cancer. Again...waiting for insurance to clear things---urgg and ugg.

I am having a hard time with my hubby being gone longer and I having surgery on Tuesday with out him here. Thank God for MaMa's right!?!? My Mom has been a blessing! Huge, Huge blessing! I also ask for prayer for my MaMa. I can't post anything about my MaMa right now, but I just ask that you keep her and our family in your prayers over the next month or two.

Proud Parent

2008-12-13T21:34:00.004-07:00

My son Christoffer is in the Spelling Bee. He is excited and very proud of his self. I have to say this MaMa is pretty darn proud too!! He won out of his class competition. In January, he will be in the School competition. Then if he wins from there he would go district, then state, then regional, and then finally National. He is in 4th grade and he will be competing against other 4th through 8th grade students. He has had to go to a couple of meetings early in the morning before school and will have to go to a few more this coming week. He has been studying hard with his NaNa. Please pray for my little one. He is super excited about this. Pray that his mind will be a little sponge. He is worried about his nerves. Pray that he will remember to be calm and not rush. We are so proud of you Christoffer! You are going to do great.

What I have to tell you next is....Christoffer made it on Honor Roll! This is the first year that he has been eligible for it. They don't start Honor Roll and Principle's List until fourth grade. Now that he is aware of it, he has set himself a goal. He really wants Principle's list this next time. He has been working really hard. Once again....I am a very proud MaMa!!

Sunday Story

2008-12-07T11:14:00.002-07:00

Here is a sweet story. I really hope you have time to read it, its long, but worth the time. I don't know if its true, but it speaks a mighty thing, powerful, and is just simply precious.

To Meet Such a Man

I sat with two friends in the picture window of a quaint restaurant just off the corner of the town-square. The food and the company were both especially good that day.

As we talked, my attention was drawn outside, across the street. There, walking into town, was a man who appeared to be carrying all his worldly goods on his back. He was carrying, a well-worn sign that read, 'I will work for food.' My heart sank.

I brought him to the attention of my friends and noticed that others around us had stopped eating to focus on him. Heads moved in a mixture of sadness and disbelief.

We continued with our meal, but his image lingered in my mind. We finished our meal and went our separate ways. I had errands to do and quickly set out to accomplish them. I glanced toward the town square, looking somewhat halfheartedly for the strange visitor. I was fearful, knowing that seeing him again would call some response. I drove through town and saw nothing of him. I made some purchases at a store and got back in my car.

Deep within me, the Spirit of God kept speaking to me: 'Don't go back to the office until you've at least driven once more around the square.'

Then with some hesitancy, I headed back into town. As I turned the square's third corner, I saw him. He was standing on the steps of the store front church, going through his sack.

I stopped and looked; feeling both compelled to speak to him, yet wanting to drive on. The empty parking space on the corner seemed to be a sign from God: an invitation to park. I pulled in, got out and approached the town's newest visitor.

'Looking for the pastor?' I asked.

'Not really,' he replied, 'just resting.'

'Have you eaten today?'

'Oh, I ate something early this morning.'

'Would you like to have lunch with me?'

He replied, 'Do you have some work I could do for you?'

'No work,' I replied. 'I commute here to work from the city, but I would like to take you to lunch.'

'Sure,' he said with a smile.

As he began to gather his things, I asked some surface questions. Where you headed?'

' St. Louis '

'Where you from?'

'Oh, all over; mostly Florida '

'How long you been walking?'

'Fourteen years,' came the reply.

I knew I had met someone unusual. We sat across from each other in the same restaurant I had left earlier. His face was weathered slightly beyond his 38 years. His eyes were dark yet clear, and he spoke with an eloquence and articulation that was startling. He removed his jacket to reveal a bright red T-shirt that said, 'Jesus is The Never Ending Story.'

Then Daniel's story began to unfold. He had seen rough times early in life. He'd made some wrong choices and reaped the consequences. Fourteen years earlier, while backpacking across the country, he had stopped on the beach in Daytona. He tried to hire on with some men who were putting up a large tent and some equipment. A concert, he thought.

He was hired, but the tent would not house a concert but revival services, and in those services he saw life more clearly. He gave his life over to God!

'Nothing's been the same since,' he said, 'I felt the Lord telling me to keep walking, and so I did, some 14 years now.'

'Ever think of stopping?' I asked.

'Oh, once in a while, when it seems to get the best of me But God has given me this calling. I give out Bibles. That's what's in my sack. I work to buy food and Bibles, and I give them out when His Spirit leads.'

I sat amazed. My homeless friend was not homeless. He was on a mission and lived this way by choice. The question burned inside for a moment and then I asked: 'What's it like?'

'What?'

'To walk into a town carrying all your things on your back and to show your sign?'

'Oh, it was humiliating at first. People would stare and make comments. Once someone tossed a piece of half-eaten bread and made a gesture that certainly didn't make me feel welcome. But then it became humbling to realize that God was using me to touch lives and change people's concepts of other folks like me.'

My concept was changing, too. We finished our dessert and gathered his things. Just outside the door, he paused. He turned to me and said, 'Come Ye blessed of my Father and inherit the kingdom I've prepared for you. For when I was hungry you gave me food, when I was thirsty you gave me drink, a stranger and you took me in.'

I felt as if we were on holy ground. 'Could you use another Bible?' I asked.

He said he preferred a certain translation. It traveled well and was not too heavy. It was also his personal favorite. 'I've read through it 14 times,' he said.

'I'm not sure we've got one of those, but let's stop by our church and see what we have. I was able to find my new friend a Bible that would do well, and he seemed very grateful.

'Where are you exactly headed from here?' I asked.

'Well, I found this little map on the back of this amusement park coupon.'

'Are you hoping to hire on there for awhile?'

'No, I just figure I should go there. I figure someone under that star right there needs a Bible, so that's where I'm going next.'

He smiled, and the warmth of his spirit radiated the sincerity of his mission. I drove him back to the town-square where we'd met two hours earlier, and as we drove, it started raining. We parked and unloaded his things.

'Would you sign my autograph book?' he asked. 'I like to keep messages from folks I meet.'

I wrote in his little book that his commitment to his calling had touched my life. I encouraged him to stay strong. And I left him with a verse of scripture from Jeremiah, 'I know the plans I have for you, declared the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you; Plans to give you a future and a hope.'

'Thanks, man,' he said. 'I know we just met and we're really just strangers, but I love you.'

'I know,' I said, 'I love you, too.' 'The Lord is good!'

'Yes, He is. How long has it been since someone hugged you?' I asked.

'A long time,' he replied

And so on the busy street corner in the drizzling rain, my new friend and I embraced, and I felt deep inside that I had been changed. He put his things on his back, smiled his winning smile and said, 'See you in the New Jerusalem.'

'I'll be there!' was my reply.

He began his journey again. He headed away with his sign dangling from his bedroll and pack of Bibles. He stopped, turned and said, 'When you see something that makes you think of me, will you pray for me?'

'You bet,' I shouted back, 'God bless.'

'God bless.' And that was the last I saw of him.

Late that evening as I left my office, the wind blew strong. The cold front had settled hard upon the town. I bundled up and hurried to my car. As I sat back and reached for the emergency brake, I saw them...a pair of well-worn brown work gloves neatly laid over the length of the handle. I picked them up and thought of my friend and wondered if his hands would stay warm that night without them.

Then I remembered his words: 'If you see something that makes you think of me, will you pray for me?'

Today his gloves lie on my desk in my office. They help me to see the world and its people in a new way, and they help me remember those two hours with my unique friend and to pray for his ministry. 'See you in the New Jerusalem,' he said. Yes, Daniel, I know I will.........

'I shall pass this way but once. Therefore, any good that I can do or any kindness that I can show, let me do it now, for I shall not pass this way again.'

'Father, I ask you to bless my friends, relatives and e-mail buddies reading this right now. Show them a new revelation of your love and power. Holy Spirit, I ask you to minister to their spirit at this very moment. Where there is pain, give them your peace and mercy. Where there is self-doubt, release a renewed confidence through your grace, In Jesus' precious Name Amen.'

New Do.

2008-12-06T04:04:00.000-07:00

Here is my new do. I got a haircut and style for an early Christmas gift from my Mom. Thanks Mom! This is my first "Mommy" haircut, as one of my friends stated. I have to agree. I feel different. All grown up. Now is the real trick---trying to figure out how to do it. Fun, Fun! My hubby comes home the 14th. Surprise, Surprise Honey!

What Love Is.....

2008-12-05T04:29:00.000-07:00

What love means or is to young kiddos ages 4 to 8 years old! I hope and pray that they all remember these answers when they are married and are older! Really made me think when I read some of these.

'When my grandmother got arthritis, she couldn't bend over and paint her toenails anymore. So my grandfather does it for her all the time, even when his hands got arthritis too. That's love.'
Rebecca (age 8)

'When someone loves you, the way they say your name is different. You just know that your name is safe in their mouth.'
Billy (age 4)

'Love is when a girl puts on perfume and a boy puts on shaving cologne and they go out and smell each other.'
Karl (age 5)

'Love is when you go out to eat and give somebody most of your French fries without making them give you any of theirs.'
Chrissy (age 6)

'Love is what makes you smile when you're tired.'
Terri (age 4)

'Love is when my mommy makes coffee for my daddy and she takes a sip before giving it to him, to make sure the taste is OK.'
Danny (age 7)

'Love is when you kiss all the time. Then when you get tired of kissing, you still want to be together and you talk more. My Mommy and Daddy are like that. They look gross when they kiss.'
Emily (age 8)

'Love is what's in the room with you at Christmas if you stop opening presents and listen.'
Bobby (age 7)

'If you want to learn to love better, you should start with a friend who you hate.'
Nikka (age 6)

'Love is when you tell a guy you like his shirt, then he wears it everyday.'
Noelle (age 7)

'Love is like a little old woman and a little old man who are still friends even after they know each other so well.'
Tommy (age 6)

'During my piano recital, I was on a stage and I was scared. I looked at all the people watching me and saw my daddy waving and smiling. He was the only one doing that. I wasn't scared anymore.'
Cindy (age 8)

'My mommy loves me more than anybody You don't see anyone else kissing me to sleep at night.'
Clare (age 6)

'Love is when Mommy gives Daddy the best piece of chicken.'
Elaine (age 5)

'Love is when Mommy sees Daddy smelly and sweaty and still says he is handsomer than Robert Redford.'
Chris (age 7)

'Love is when your puppy licks your face even after you left him alone all day.'
Mary Ann (age 4)

'I know my older sister loves me because she gives me all her old clothes and has to go out and buy new ones.'
Lauren (age 4)

'When you love somebody, your eyelashes go up and down and little stars come out of you.' Karen (age 7)

'Love is when Mommy sees Daddy on the toilet and she doesn't think it's gross.'
Mark (age 6)

'You really shouldn't say 'I love you' unless you mean it. But if you mean it, you should say it a lot. People forget.'
Jessica (age 8)

And the final one: The winner was a four year old child whose next door neighbor was an elderly gentleman who had recently lost his wife. Upon seeing the man cry, the little boy went into the old gentleman's yard, climbed onto his lap, and just sat there.When his Mother asked what he had said to the neighbor, the little boy said, 'Nothing, I just helped him cry'

Reading.

2008-12-04T04:33:00.001-07:00

Only great minds can read this! This is weird, but interesting! This is another forward that was sent to me. I couldn't resist putting it on here. I thought this was neatO and fun!

fi yuo cna raed tihs, yuo hvae a sgtrane mnid too

Cna yuo raed tihs? Olny 55 plepoe out of 100 can. i cdnuolt blveiee taht I cluod aulaclty uesdnatnrd waht I was rdanieg. The phaonmneal pweor of the hmuan mnid, aoccdrnig to a rscheearch at Cmabrigde Uinervtisy, it dseno't mtaetr in waht oerdr the ltteres in a wrod are, the olny iproamtnt tihng is taht the frsit and lsat ltteer be in the rghit pclae. The rset can be a taotl mses and you can sitll raed it whotuit a pboerlm. Tihs is bcuseae the huamn mnid deos not raed ervey lteter by istlef, but the wrod as a wlohe. Azanmig huh ? yaeh and I awlyas tghuhot slpeling wa s ipmorantt! if you can raed tihs forwrad it

Poem.

2008-12-03T05:38:00.005-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SILAS!

We have been so honored and blessed to get to know you little guy! You have changed so much and you have changed me in a way I can't explain. You are such a blessing, not only to your family but to all who you meet! We love you! Can't wait to celebrate your birthday with you on Saturday!

On a different note. Here is a little something that I thought was interesting. A friend emailed it to me.

Twas the month before Christmas

When all through our land,

Not a Christian was praying

Nor taking a stand.

The politically correct police had taken away,

The reason for Christmas-no one could say.

The children were told by their schools not to sing,

About Shepherds and Wise Men and Angels and things.

It might hurt people's feelings, the teachers would say

December 25th is just a "Holiday".

Yet the shoppers were ready with cash, checks and credit

Pushing folks down to the floor just to get it!

CD's from Madonna, an X BOX, an I-pod

Something was changing, something quite odd!

Retailers promoted Ramadan and Kwanzaa

In hopes to sell books by Franken & Fonda.

As Targets were hanging their trees upside down

At Lowe's the word Christmas - was no where to be found.

At K-Mart and Staples and Penny's and Sears

You won't hear the word Christmas; it won't touch your ears.

Inclusive, sensitive, Di-ver-is-ty

Are words that were used to intimidate me.

Now Daschle, Now Darden, Now Sharpton, Wolf Blitzen

On Boxer, on Rather, on Kerry, on Clinton!

At the top of the Senate, there arose such a clatter

To eliminate Jesus, in all public matter.

And we spoke not a word, as they took away our faith

Forbidden to speak of salvation and grace

The true Gift of Christmas was exchanged and discarded

The reason for the season, stopped before it started.

So as you celebrate "Winter Break" under your "Dream Tree"

Sipping your Starbucks, listen to me.

Choose your words carefully, choose what you say

Shout MERRY CHRISTMAS, not Happy Holiday!

Tid-Bits.

2008-12-02T18:24:00.007-07:00

HAPPY 13 Months Jaxxy! You little Monkey You!

I haven't heard anything back from Biopsies! Stink! We are missin' Daddy over here! Thank God for Nana's! I am just thankful and enjoying these days with my Mom and Kiddos! Any guess yet on what's happin' on the 18th? Excited that I recieved my first Christmas card in the mail today! Nothing much else to report. Sorry. Just tryin' to keep in touch, posted, and updated! Love to you all!

Still Waiting.

2008-12-01T17:42:00.002-07:00

I haven't heard anything yet from the doctor. I figured it would be Tuesday before I did. I will keep you posted. I am just feeling so blessed to have my Mom here with me during this time. I had to take my sweet hubby to the airport this morning at 3:00am for his 5:00am flight to Georgia. He will be gone for 2 weeks. He comes back Dec. 14th. I have foot surgery on the 16th. But what is most exciting is what's going to happen on the 18th! I can't tell until the big day comes--so please keep checkin' in!

My Last Few Thanks

2008-11-30T07:33:00.000-07:00

Day Thirty~I am thankful for pine trees, for rain, rainbows, ice cream, butterflies, for Tulips, boats, camping, for the ability to smell, see, and hear, for computers, for music, and for this idea that Donna blessed all of us with (giving thanks for 30 days). There are more, but these are the ones that are precious to me. I am also thankful that Rachelle will be home Tuesday night.

Home.

2008-11-29T14:48:00.002-07:00

Day Twenty Nine~I am so thankful that someone about 10 mins ago, came to our home with Lucy!! They found her and returned her to us! Thank You Jesus for answering our prayers and keeping her safe all night long!! My Mom is a happy camper and has tears of pure Joy now!!

Lucy

2008-11-29T08:58:00.003-07:00

My Mom's little dog Lucy that she brought with her is missing. Please pray that God guides us to her or that He guides her back home. We went out shopping yesterday and came home to no little doggie. She means a lot to my Mom. She is hurting. Which is hurting me. I have never had that love or bond for a dog, so I don't understand it. But seeing and watching my Mom, I see that it is a very deep and special bond. She lost her voice calling for Lucy for so long last night. She called for her until she couldn't physically call for her any more. Please pray that we will have her in our arms very soon and that while we wait, my Mom have peace and comfort in her heart!

Wash.

2008-11-28T11:17:00.002-07:00

Day Twenty Eight~Thankful that my Washer Machine is getting fixed! I have been dealing with my washer issues for awhile now. Putting up with it's little burps. Getting it to work for after I fiddle with it a while for several times. It finally stopped. This has all been very frustrating as this is a brand new washer that we bought from sears, when we moved into our home. We have since found out that the model we have seems to be a problem for everyone, but Sears won't admit it. They did stop making it though. Hmm! We didn't think when we bought it since it being brand new and high tech that we would need to buy an extended warranty. I guess we learned our lesson. We are out today getting the whole new computer that it needs!

Update on Me: Surgery went well. As far as I know. The doctor didn't talk with me after my surgery, since it took me awhile to wake up. Surgery I was told was to be 15 mins to 30 mins long. It took 1 hour and 15 mins. I didn't like the fact that they pushed me all the way into the surgery room, place me on that very small, cold, hard table, strapped my arms down, before putting me under. I did have my moments of tears while I was there. I was glad to see my sweet hubby's face when he came to pick me up! Thank you for all the prayers.

Thanks-Giving

2008-11-27T23:35:00.005-07:00

Day Twenty Seven~Happy Thanksgiving!! I figured since it was Thanksgiving, I would post a few things today of what I am thankful for. I am thankful for Melissa and her family. They came over today, (bought and brought everything) and cooked all my family yummy Thanksgiving Dinner. It was great! She knew that I wouldn't be able to, since I had surgery yesterday. When we made the plans we didn't know that my Mom was going to be coming down. It all worked out great though! I am thankful for her sweet friendship! I am thankful for her daughters. I love you girls! I am thankful that our husbands get along so well. I am thankful for the fun games that we all played! Thank Mel and family!! I am thankful my Mom is HERE! I am thankful for all the help that she has already blessed us with! I am thankful she will be here with me for the 2 weeks that Tommy will be gone! I am thankful she will be here until after Christmas! Whoo-Hoo Baby! Thank you Mommy! I am thankful for the weather! Thankful for ALL the RAIN!! I LOVE it! I am thankful my surgery is done and over! One down and one to go!! I am thankful that Tommy's side of the family was able to join us today. I am thankful for the great time that we all had! Thank you Jesus for Jesse and Aaron being HOME for the holidays with their families!! Happy Turkey Day Everyone!!

Coming.

2008-11-26T07:04:00.002-07:00

Day Twenty Six~Today's Thankful thought is easy for me. I am so excited. (no not about the surgery) (hee-hee) I am thankful that my sweet, sweet Mommy is coming down. She started the long 14/16 hour drive (18 hours if you have kids) yesterday late afternoon. I talked with her last night at 8:30 and her goal was to get to Bakersfield and then head out early this morning at 3:30am from there. I needed my Mom and here she comes! She will be here this afternoon! We are surprising the kids. She wasn't suppose to come down until Dec. 20th for Christmas. Then I told her that I need someone for a good solid week for when I have my foot surgery, which is scheduled for Dec. 16th. Her trip plans changed and I was going to get her Dec. 13th. After quit a few talks yesterday with her, she felt the need to come. She knew I was needing her. I had a bad day yesterday. Not sure what it was, but I am thankful that it is over with. My entire body hurt. My organs, muscles, and bones. I felt like I was having back labor. My head hurt so bad, felt like it was going to pop. It was so bad I thought about having Tommy take me to the ER when he got home from work. I had a fever of 101.5. Anyway, its over with! I have a headache, but compared to yesterday, this is nothing. I have to go finish getting ready to go to the hospital, but I just couldn't wait to share what I was thankful for! She will be here early today and staying all the way till after Christmas!!

Still On.

2008-11-25T09:49:00.003-07:00

Day Twenty Five~Thankful that the surgery is still on for tomorrow. Thank you for all who are helping tomorrow. I am thankful that God took care of all the little details! Please pray for my anxious heart. (I don't want surgery, but I am thankful to get it over with and getting this ball rolling)

Results.

2008-11-24T12:52:00.004-07:00

Day Twenty Four~I am thankful today for test result news. After waiting all weekend for them I am glad the day is finally here and came! I went and saw my doctor this morning. Her words, "You are losing blood somewhere." "We need to figure out why and how." I have to go tomorrow for more blood work! Yippee Yay. Just what I want and like to do! Anyone else wanna pretend that they are me and give up their arm!?! I do the blood tests tomorrow then again (same tests) in a few weeks. In that time period I will be taking some medication 2 times a day. If my red blood counts are up, then great. If they stay the same or drop, then the ball rolls on. I will have to have a possible blood transfusion, MRI, and possible bone marrow test. This all may delay my surgery. I won't know until tomorrow when the surgeon goes over my tests. Thank you for all your prayers! I am at peace right now and I am thankful for that! I think its because I may get to get out of surgery---hee-hee-hee. I am more anxious about that then I thought. Thank you to all of you who offered to go with me.

Angels

2008-11-23T19:24:00.006-07:00

Day Twenty Three~I am thankful for God sending me two friends, on two separate nights, to cheer me up, play the waiting game with me, and keeping my mind off of it all! Friday night a friend of mine was in need. In need of escaping the news she received that day. She needed to gather her thoughts and needed a friend. She called and asked to come over. I gladly said yes. What she didn't know is how much I need her that night---for the news that I had received that day. We had a great night talking, laughing, drinking coffee, crying, planning future things, and just even being silent with each other. It was neat that she came thinking she needed me, when at the same time God used her to comfort me who was hurting too. Thank you Melissa!

Then Saturday night while I was home alone with the kiddos, I heard a knock at my door. It was dark and late, so I was afraid to answer it. I had just gotten Jaxxon to sleep, so I placed him in his crib, went downstairs, and saw that my sweet friend Charlene was here. When she saw me, she hugged me and said, "I just had to see you. See how you were. To let you know that I have been thinking of you and praying for you." "I wanted to come over and just hang with you and talk with you. I know you have been anxious about your tests and surgery." Wow! Again, just what I needed. My hubby was gone and I was feeling lonely, sad, and scared. And God knew that, and sent my a friend. We talked, laughed, drank coffee, AND played the Wii. I broke out in a sweat playin' the wii fit. Then we got started with bowling. We had a great time. Before she left, she helped me hang up my Christmas stockings and decorate the area around them. Thank you Charlene.

Charlene, Me, and Shannon (we miss you)

Thank you Lord for sending these two very precious ladies! I am blessed, blessed, blessed!

Today was a hard day for me emotionally. Tommy my hubby has been working 7 days a week for awhile. I don't see him much, cause then when he comes home, he either has a softball game, or is just so plum tired and falls asleep. We found out Friday that he will be leaving for 2 weeks to Georgia, December 1st.

I wanted to also say, thank you Angie for comin' and hangin' with me all day Saturday. It was nice to just hang, talk, and wrap presents. (well--trying to wrap) (lol) Tomorrow is a big day for the both of us! Hang in there and know that we aren't alone and God is bigger than anything!

End of the Year. Prayer.

2008-11-22T00:55:00.001-07:00

Day Twenty Two~I am thankful that this year is almost over. This has not be a good year. Thank you Jesus for getting us through this year and I am thankful that a whole new year will be coming shortly.

This year we found out that two of our family member's have cancer. Then within a week of each other they passed away. It has truly been non-stop since November of last year, we have been on an up and down roller coaster. The enemy has really been laying it hard on us. As I look back though, I see that only one set of footprints! We have been carried and are still being carried! Thank you Jesus for never leaving us hanging! For carrying us through all this junk. Lord, please show me what I need to learn through all this, so that its not all just a big waste.

I had all my blood work finished up on Thursday. Friday afternoon I got a call from my doctors office. I was informed that my blood work has come back and that doctor wants to see me right away and talk with me about the results. Of course though, the doctors leave early on Friday's, so I have to wait till Monday morning to meet with her. I am nervous and anxious to say the least. I know I shouldn't be jumping to conclusions, but at this point with everything that is going on, its really hard not to. I am sorry for not being strong.

PS:
I know that my blogs have been kinda depressing and down lately. I understand if you don't wanna read for awhile. This is healing for me to get it all out. It's a way for me to look back and see all that God has done for us. I am also not a good "ask for help" kinda person. This way, blogging, I can ask for help by asking for prayer. In words, on paper, in an email, whatever it be--makes me more brave. Asking for help in person or on the phone--uhh yeah--too hard.

Need:
I have someone (Thank you Erica) that can drop me off at the hospital on Wednesday. Erica also said she could watch Morganne before she has to go to Preschool while I am in surgery. My hubby will pick me up afterwards from the hospital and bring me home. My need is for someone to watch my little man Jaxxon. If you know of anyone that can watch him from 8:00 till 2:00ish, please let me know.

PRAYER:
Wednesday our friend Melissa Olivas called and asked if I could take her and her daughter Angela to Urgent Care. Angela was experiencing heart problems. After an abnormal EKG and 3 heart episodes we were sent to the ER. They found out Friday after the Echo cardiogram that Angela may be in need of a heart transplant. There are several things that need to be done before they know for sure, but as you can imagine how hard of news this is. They are waiting for Angela's medical records from the Cardiologist she had when they lived in California. They think that Angie may have Restrictive Cardiomyopathy. There are a few other things that they are saying is going on with her heart as well and that she will have a Catheter put in possibly next week. Please keep Angela and her family in your prayers. Pray that they get all the answers that they need sooner than later, as the "waiting" game is no fun. Angela is only 16 years old. Lord, I just ask that you give peace and strength to Angela and her family as they wait for some answers from the Cardiologist in CA. That Angela's heart is full and complete. I ask Lord that you guide the doctors and their decisions on what to do for Angela. That she gets the correct diagnosis. That she has a long and healthy life ahead of her. You know Lord how dear this family is to our family. Comfort my heart Lord, as it aches, for my sweet girl Angie. Give me the strength to be strong for them as they go through this and to give me guidance on how to be of the best help for them.

I love you sweetness! Stay Strong! Know that Jesus is right by your side through all this! He will never leave you nor forsake you! You know that we will be with you guys every step of the way and are prayin' for you.

Dreams.

2008-11-21T08:40:00.002-07:00

Day Twenty One~I am thankful for Dreams. Dreams have been very special to me since my Daddy passed. I have dreams with my Dad in them quit often. It is refreshing when I wake up, because I remember them so vivid and they seem so real. Like I have had my Daddy fix. I have been sad and have had tears instantly when I wake up too. When I realize it was all just a dream. I miss him so much. I am thankful though, that Jesus shares him with me in my dreams and that I will be able to see my Dad, for real, one day in Heaven.

Surgery. Tests.

2008-11-20T18:49:00.006-07:00

Day Twenty~Seriously! Day 20! Crazy. I am thankful to have ALL my blood-work and tests finally done. I finished them up this morning. I am thankful that I didn't faint and that I was a big girl going all by myself! See that is a big deal. I usually have to have my sweet hubby, (okay don't laugh), hold my hand and talk with me to keep my mind off of the whole needle thing. And Yes..I have been known to faint. It went great. I got the perfect person! I had my sweet babies (Morganne and Jaxxon) with me to help cheer me on. I am thankful that I am under Gods hands and perfect plan. I found out the time of my surgery for Wednesday is 10:30am. I need to be at the hospital at 8:30am though.

I went today and saw Dr. Lee. He informed me that I will need to have surgery on my foot as well. We agreed to get through my surgery first though---LOL. The surgery that I will be having on Wednesday is on my right thigh. I have a mass. They have used the word cancer. BUT we don't know--as to there have been no biopsies done. They will remove all of it and then biopsy it. Thank you for your prayers and all the questions you have all asked, either in emails or phone calls. I will keep you posted. I am thankful to finally be getting all this taken care of.

Tree.

2008-11-19T05:30:00.002-07:00

Day Nineteen~I am thankful that I have my Christmas tree up and my house decorated! I finished last night. I found out yesterday that I will be going to have surgery Wednesday of next week. The day before Thanksgiving. I usually start decorating the night of Thanksgiving and finish the day after. I am thankful that its done already, so that when I am resting after surgery on Thanksgiving I will have a beautiful tree to look at and enjoy. I am thankful to even have my kids shopping all done and most of the gifts wrapped. Now if I can get the house cleaned and organized before then!

Season.

2008-11-18T05:00:00.001-07:00

Day Eighteen~I am thankful for this time of year. Fall, the beautiful trees (none here in AZ), the cooler weather, the music, the smells, and holidays. Over all just everything about these last couple months of the year. Everyone seems a little chipper too! I LOVE that my two favorite holidays are so close to one another. Thanksgiving where we remember to give thanks to the Lord! For giving us His only son, to die on the cross for us, sinners! Thank Him for all that we have and don't have. For answered and unanswered prayers! You are an amazing God! Then Christmas. Remembering the real reason for the season. Remembering and celebrating our sweet Jesus birth! Thank you Jesus for loving me! For giving me the gift of eternal life. I love this time of year. My prayer Lord, is to please help me, remind me, and make me more aware of these things through out the year, instead of waiting till this time of year comes around to be reminded, by some holidays. Help me Lord to be more thankful and forgiving all year around.

Struggle.

2008-11-17T10:15:00.008-07:00

Day Seventeen~I am struggling here. I really have been near a huge break down of tears all morning. I had to go to Walgreen's this morning and everyone that talked to me I instantly started to tear up. I am feeling like I don't have anything "thankful" to post. Please just pray for me this week---that will be what I am thankful for today--Prayer! I am thankful for the ability to pray, for the power of prayer, and the so many of you out there who pray for my little family and I on a daily basis. I know that things could be so much worse, that there are families that are close to us that are hurting so much more and are going through far more worse things---so I apologize that I am sitting here, feeling sorry for myself and feel like I have it so hard.

Donna your post the other day said it all! (from Donna's post) "Well, we are half way through our 30 days of thanks. I don't know about anyone else who took this challenge, but the enemy of my soul sure tried to use it against me. He kept reminding me of all the "things" that I "need" or other failures in my life. It was pretty crazy there for me for a few days. Then once I saw through what was going on I repented from my pity party and snapped out of it." Thank you Donna for reminding me that this is the enemy and I need to snap out of it and continue to pray, repent, and give it all to my sweet Jesus.

FYI:
I didn't post this blog to have anyone feel sorry for me or what not. This blog, my blog, is an outlet for me. A way of healing, getting my thoughts, feelings, and emotions out. A guide to look back on. From where I started and have come. I do want you to know that I appreciate and am thankful for those who do and are praying for me though!!

Father Inlaw

2008-11-16T14:51:00.001-07:00

Day Sixteen~Today would have been my father inlaws 80th birthday! As many of you know he passed away this last April with Esophagus Cancer. I am thankful today for him, Thomas Jefferson Oliphint. I am thankful that I got to know and see a different side of him before he passed. I am thankful that I got to make sure that the had Jesus in his heart. I am thankful for the way that he loved my kids. I am thankful that one day I will see him again. We miss you Tom and love you much!

Don't Laugh

2008-11-15T22:54:00.001-07:00

Day Fifteen~ I am so very thankful for Sonic Ice! Yes--I said it--the little pebbles (that is a nicer way of saying it, than we normally do) of ice that you get in your yummy drink at Sonic fast food. I buy a bag of Sonic ice about every 2 weeks. Yup--you can buy that wonderful, cute, little, easy to chew ice. I am addicted to ice and this is the easiest that I have found on my teeth and braces to chew. (I know, I know, I shouldn't) It's just so fluffy, soft, and stays frozen forever!! Here Click, you gotta look, I am not the only werido out there! I found so many sites after I wrote this blog on my Ice when looking for a picture of it.

This is what someone posted on a site I found:

Is it just me? Am I the only one who loves Sonic ice? I don’t know how they do it but the stuff is delicious. Throw in a Happy Hour from 2 to 4 with half priced drinks and I am hooked.
We had a bag of Sonic ice in the freezer left over and I found myself drinking a lot more Pepsi, aka the Sweet Elixir, because of it. Last night I found myself pouring out the last contents of the bag trying to get every last shard out of the corners of the bag.
I love Sonic ice. I don’t know what is so great about it, I suppose the fact that it is crunchy but not too crunchy. You know what I mean right? Your teeth have to work but not that hard to devour it.
I think the size has something to do with it also. Those little ice pellets are just right, you can enjoy one or four. The ice at McDonald’s is big and clunky and hard but not at Sonic.
Anyone else out there a Sonic ice lover? Regale me with your Sonic ice stories. Who is planning a trip to Sonic from 2 to 4 this afternoon? Just know I’ll be drinking a Route 44 cherry limeade and chomping on the tastiest ice around.

Things.

2008-11-14T14:32:00.000-07:00

Day Fourteen~ I am thankful today for the "things" that God has blessed us with. I am thankful for our house, our cars, my husbands job, wonderful FREE health insurance, our clothes, Wii (fun family time with the kiddos), board and card games, t.v., and seriously the list goes on. I know this seems silly to post, but we know we are truly bless and have these "things" only because of Him. This house is a gift from God! He has blessed us even though we are so undeserving! We have so much to be thankful for this Thanksgiving!

Bible.

2008-11-13T20:21:00.002-07:00

Day Thirteen~ I am so thankful for the Bible! I am thankful that we have it all in one book for us! I am thankful that we have all the answers already! Thank you Lord for such a great and awesome gift! I am thankful that we live in a country where we can use the Bible and read the Bible whenever we want. Thank you Lord for giving us all that we need. Lord help me please to continue to live by Your Word and to look to it and open it up! To trust and keep my faith in you and it! Thank you for loving me when I feel like giving in. When I feel like I don't have any more faith. Your Word is food to my soul---thank you!

Brackets. Metal. Smile.

2008-11-12T21:02:00.004-07:00

Day Twelve~I am thankful for my braces! I have had my braces on now for 2 years and 3 months (just about) (I was suppose to only have them on for 18-24 months) Unlike most people, I cried the day I got them put on, because I was so excited! I cried my very first visit to see the Orthodontist for a consultation (because I was excited to be there). My Orthodontists still comments on it and laughs! He says in all his years I am the only one that he has seen so excited! I am so proud of them! I love them! Most people with braces can't wait till the day they are off. Me--not so much! I am so thankful to have them on, that they don't bother me one bit. Honestly, if I had to have them on forever, I would be just fine with that. See, my crooked teeth bothered me so much all my life. I got teased nonstop and felt so insecure with them. I was a very unhappy person and hated to smile! Hated taking pictures. I love having pictures taken now--even with the metal on! I love to smile and flash my shiny look! Thank you Lord for providing the means to be able to get a little metal added to my smile!

PS--He said today that I may have them off this year! I will post a before and after picture when that big day comes!

Blog.

2008-11-11T12:54:00.000-07:00

Day Eleven~Today is the 11th day of giving thanks for the things that I am thankful for. Once again this is a hard day for me. What I am thankful for today is this blog and all the blogging friends that come with it. I am so blessed by all who read my blog. I am blessed by your prayers, your encouragements, and just the support for our family that you have by reading our blog. I am thankful for all who leave comments! They bless me! I am blessed by reading your blogs too! Thank you for opening up your hearts, thoughts, feelings, and families to me! Thank you Jesus for these great friends that you have put in my path!!

Just what I had to hear.

2008-11-10T17:20:00.002-07:00

Day Ten~Today is one of those days that I am finding a really hard time to give thanks to God. To find anything to really be thankful for. I am feeling pretty sorry for myself. I am not happy about my health issues (which by the way I see a surgeon about having the mass removed Tuesday of next week), my marriage, my husbands job situations that are going on, all my kids behaviors, and to top it all off, I got summons today--I am getting sued! But-God still chose to bless me today, even though I am throwing a big pity party. As I was crying and fighting with my husband this morning, the door bell rang. As I opened the door, there was a man holding these beautiful flowers! He said that they were for Aimee Oliphint. I opened the card right away to read these sweet words...."Aimee Baby, I Am Not Sure Yet What May Come Of This Day, But See His Light And Trust In Him..I Love You. Many, Many Hugs. Praying For You, Rae-Rae!" My best and sweet friend Rachelle (whom I call Rae-Rae) is away in Georgia. She left October 28th and won't be back until December 3rd. She is visiting her family. I miss her so much. She sent these beautiful flowers because she knew that I was seeing the doctor today. She wasn't sure what kind of news, if any, that I was going to get. She wanted to be here for me and this was the only way she felt she could. I know she wrote those words (so she thought) for that reason (the doctors visit) but to be honest, I think that God used her in a different way. Different than she thought. He knew what all was going to happen and perspire today and used her and her words for those reasons. I love my flowers! I am so thankful for my friend Rachelle. I am thankful for these words! They mean so much to me, more than Rachelle will ever know! More than she probably ever expected them to. I am so thankful for my flowers! They are beautiful and smell so good! I can't wait to watch them over the week and see all the buds open up each day. Yesterday there was only 1 opened. Today there is another opening. There are several more buds to be opened! What a blessing! Thank you Rachelle. I love you and can't wait for you to come home.

No, we didn't plan this!

My Mom. Also known as NaNa.

2008-11-09T11:40:00.001-07:00

Day Nine~ I am thankful for my Mom. I am not sure I can do her justice in words. I don't know where I would be with out her in my life. She adopted me when I was 2 weeks old and loved me like her own ever since. In fact, she will tell you, she loved me before I was born. That she chose me. She never made me feel like I was adopted. I always felt like I was hers! Like I did come from her womb. She loved me with all my faults and still does till this day! She taught me about Jesus and I am so grateful for that. She modeled to me, growing up, what a God fearing women should be. She got up before anyone in the house (very, very early) so that she could have her quiet time with her Jesus! With her Bible and notebook out on her lap, she would pray and read every morning, in her rocking chair, curling her hair (yes she can curl all her hair with out a mirror). In her notebook is where she had all her prayer requests and all her family and friends names in it, so that she could pray for them all. See, there were mornings that I would catch this very precious time that she would have, and I am so thankful that I did. What a sweet and beautiful memory that I have in my head. There is nothing like seeing your Mom worshiping God, that early in the morning, before she starts her day with her family. My Mom is very special to me. She also taught me what a wife should be like. She was the greatest model of a wife. I never saw my Dad and her fight or argue. EVER! I still till this day, will tell you, they had the greatest marriage (I know now, they had to have fought, but I never saw or knew it as a child). She always had dinner cooking for my Dad when he came home from work and let him have his time to unwind. I struggle to be the women that she showed and taught me. I one day, when I grow up (lol) pray that I can be such a great model to my husband and kids. Not only is she a wonderful Mom, but a NaNa too. I couldn't ask for a better Grandma for my kids! She loves them all the same. They all think that they are her favorites! One day, I hope that we are blessed enough to live near her. We miss her so much! My husband calls her "his Mom"! He says that his Mom is my Mom, and my Mom is his Mom. He really has a special relationship with her. My Mom treats him like he is her son! I think I have been replaced sometimes! (lol) My Mom is the biggest prayer warrior that you have ever met. When ever ANY thing is going on in our lives, I call her first thing, and she prays for me/us. She prays for us everyday as a matter a fact. She prays for Grace and Mercy. That we will prosper. For our health. For Tommy's job. For the kiddos. What a blessing God gave me and not only me, but for my kiddos and husband too! I love my Mom and am so very thankful for her! Mom, I am in awe of you! You want so bad to be such a great woman like your MaMa---well guess what!?! YOU ARE! You are so beautiful, loving, giving, gracious, caring, God fearing, and the funniest person that I know. You love ALL (and you know how many aunts, uncles, and cousins we have) your family with all your heart. I am the most blessed gal in the World to have a Mom like you who chose ME!

My Four.

2008-11-08T16:50:00.005-07:00

Day Eight~ I am so grateful and thankful for my four sweeties-my kiddos! I am amazed at what they have taught me. I am thankful for their health issues (they could be so much worse), their sweet smiles, their sense of humor, their giggles and laughs, their hugs and kisses. The way Christoffer dances! The way Niccolas sings. Morgannes humor. Jaxxons smile! Thank you Jesus for entrusting us as their parents! What special little gifts! My prayer Lord is that you help guide Tommy and I to bring them up the way You want! Your will! Thank you again for my Four!

Oh and PS: I am thankful for my phone call from my very bestest friend today!

God Is In Control.

2008-11-07T14:55:00.001-07:00

Day Seven~ I am thankful that God is in control. That He knew who was going to be our President even before we did. My wish was not for who has been elected, but I am thankful and resting in the peace that this was all part of Gods great plan. I am thankful that I know who is in control. I am thankful that Jesus is coming soon! What we can all do now is just continue to pray for our President, Country, and World. Pray for all who are unsaved! Be a witness during this time of what I think will be a lot of uncertainty. Thank you Jesus for saving me and having Your will be done.

Hubby.

2008-11-06T07:20:00.002-07:00

Day Six~I am thankful for my husband Tommy. We have gone through a lot together the (almost) 10 years we've been married. I am thankful that I went through it all with him. I know that everyone says that their husband is the greatest and yes that is true for them. Tommy is the greatest for me. God gave him to me. Yes, we could ALL use a little work in areas...we all have our faults...but I am grateful and thankful that Tommy and I together with God are working out our kinks. Thank you Jesus for giving Tommy to me. He loves me with all my faults! Lord, help me to be the wife that I need for him! Protect him at work from the enemy and his attacks that he is throwing out at Tommy.

Thank you for Tommy, Lord! My husband!

Nippy! Thank you Jesus!

2008-11-05T17:44:00.002-07:00

Day Five~I am thankful for the wonderful and beautiful weather today! Jaxxon and I decided to walk up to the school to pick up the boys after school. I just couldn't resist not going outside. The weather had the perfect little nip to it!! As I sit here and type I am wearing sweat pants and a thin long sleeve! I love it! Thank you Jesus for cool weather! This is my favorite time of year!! Pulling out the jeans (which by the way are my favorite piece of clothing) and the long sleeve cute little shirts! Whoo-Hoo! I am Luvin' It!

Greatest Friend

2008-11-04T17:56:00.005-07:00

Day Four~I am thankful for my very special friend Rachelle. She is such a blessing and gift from God. We are seriously "two peas in a pod"! In fact that is our special little thing. God knew what I needed and wanted and sent me this precious person to my life. We will be friends forever--here on earth and in heaven! I love you Rachelle, my sweet friend! I miss you! Hurry home! Thank you Jesus for her!

Thankfulness Time

2008-11-03T12:32:00.001-07:00

Day Three~I am thankful that our car sold today! Thank you Jesus for providing us with another car that is a step up from the one that we just sold! Thank you for this "sweet ride" as my husband calls it! Thank you for blessing my hubby and making him smile again.

PS:
He got a 1999 Ford Mustang. The 35th anniversary addition. He is like a little kid at Christmas time. Its a lot nicer car than Tommy has had in awhile. We were very blessed by the friends that sold it to us. We almost feel like we stole it from them--for the price that we paid. Lord--thank you for using them to bless us in an awesome way! Please return the blessing to them 10-fold! Tommy is going to have some "Good Times-Good Times" in his new sweet ride.

HAPPY 1st BIRTHDAY JAXXON

2008-11-02T17:10:00.009-07:00

I can't believe that this is my baby! This year flew by so fast! I am in disbelief that he turns the big ONE today. Happy Birthday my sweet little boy!

This brings me to my Day Two of what I am thankful for!

Day Two~Thank you Lord for Jaxxon. I am so thankful for this sweet little boy that you have blessed us with. You knew just what we wanted, when we didn't even realize that we wanted it. You still blessed us. He is such a great gift.

Can you do it?

2008-11-01T19:01:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine decided that she would post one thing that she is thankful for everyday of the month of November. I really found that powerful, so I am joining her, Donna, and another friend Tammy, that decided to do it too. I often don't see the blessings and beauty in the little things, so I challenge you to look into your life and thank Jesus for the "little blessings" along with me!

Day One~Thank you Jesus for dying on the cross for my sins! For loving me unconditionally! For always seeing the good in me when I and others can't. I am a sinner and you love me anyways! You died on the cross a brutal death for ME! Thank you Lord for giving your only begotten Son--for ME! I don't think I could have!

Season.

2008-11-01T05:21:00.001-07:00

Day Eighteen~I am thankful for this time of year. I love this season. The fall, the holidays, the cool weather, pretty trees/leaves (no, we don't have any here in AZ), and the time to get with family and friends. It just seems like everyone is in a chipper mood too! I love that Thanksgiving and Christmas are so close to one another. Thanksgiving, where we remember to give Thanks to our Lord for all that He did for us. A day to remember and to be thankful for what we have. Then Christmas. Remembering and celebrating the birth of our Jesus! Remembering the reason for the season! Thank you Jesus for this wonderful time of year to really remind us what we should remember all year around.

Oliphint Update

2008-10-06T22:13:00.005-07:00

Jaxxon is now 11 months old! Just doesn't seem possible! He now has 2 teeth on the bottom and 4 teeth on the top. He took his first steps the day he turned 10 months old and now at 11 months he is walking all over the house. He is crawling up and down the stairs too. This year has gone by way to fast. What happened to my baby!?!?

Morganne started Preschool last week. She goes Tuesday-Friday, from 1:00-3:45. She loves it and is doing great. They are working with her on her speech. My sweet little girl is going to school. I miss her during those few hours.

Christofffer's cast is off. Arm is healed and looks great! He is happy to have it off. He is doing great in school. Getting wonderful grades. This last Saturday, he was riding his skate board and got his finger crushed. The wheel pulled off his entire nail, right off of his finger. Praise God that our friend Erica was outside to help! She cleaned it up and got him to calm down. Christoffer doesn't trust Tommy--he thinks that Tommy is going to hurt him, and I, well, I am just a big chicken. I can not handle blood and things like that. Please keep him in your prayers, as to, we think the finger is broken and getting an infection! The finger is best described as...a hot dog that you cooked in a microwave to long. His finger busted out of the side.

Niccolas is doing fantastic in school! We are so proud of him! Great grades and behavior. Everyday, but maybe 4 days out of the school year so far, have been excellent's on his behavior chart that comes home everyday. Way to go Niccolas. He is getting so big. He is pretty proud of his self as well. He has two loose tooth that he is very excited about. He hasn't lost any teeth yet.

As far as me, Aimee. I did all my testing and got the results back. Praise God that the tumor in my left breast hasn't grown at all. It changed its shape slightly, but nothing that really got the doctors worried. They wanna keep a close watch on it though, because of the slight form change. Growing and shape change is a sign of cancer. I do have the option of having a biopsy done on it if I want. The mass in my leg is a different story. The doctor wants Tommy and I to go in Monday and sit down face to face and talk about it. She said that they aren't 100% sure that its not cancer. She (the doctor) wants it removed and then they will do a biopsy on it. I have to go see a surgeon and see what they say. Tommy also wants me to go get another opinion on it too. I am actually pretty calm and at peace with all this, and I know its because of God and all you prayer warriors!! Thank you much. I will keep you posted on what the surgeon and doctors say as soon as those appointments happen. I am blessed to be able to go on a Women's Retreat with my church tomorrow and come back Sunday! I am so excited to get away and have some quiet time with my Jesus!!

Three Boys!

2008-09-25T11:41:00.006-07:00

Here are my three sweet boys! Our good friend Erica took these amazing photos of them. I have some with Morganne, Tommy, and I as well, that I will post later. I just wanted to show you my sweet boys for now. I am so blessed!

Christoffer (left) is 9 years old. Jaxxon (middle) is almost 10 months old here. Niccolas (right) is 6 1/2 years old.

Incase Jesus Speaks to Your 4 1/2 yr Old

2008-09-20T18:25:00.004-07:00

Morganne was playing with Niccolas' car bucket (bucket full of Hot Wheels) today in my room. I just went in there about 5 minutes ago and saw that she hadn't cleaned them up. I found her in Christoffer's room, and asked her to please go clean up the cars and put them away. She wasn't happy about it, but went in there and started slamming the cars into the bucket. I was in and out of there putting things away and cleaning up a bit as to we are having some friends over tonight. I asked her what was wrong and she said, " I don't wanna clean this up." I told her, "Well, maybe next time don't make such a mess." I told her, I loved her." She then said, "Well, Jesus told me that I don't have to clean this up." I said, "Oh really! He did?!?" She said, "Yes, He did. And He is the Boss. And He is the Boss FOREVER!" She cleaned up the whole mess and put the bucket away, with no problem, but I just thought I would inform you that, Jesus may talk to your 4 1/2 year old soon too about not cleaning up...........LOL!

Update

2008-09-20T08:01:00.002-07:00

Thank you for all the prayers! I had my X-rays done of my right foot, right hand, and sternum on Monday. They came back normal (yeah) (but now we still have to figure out why they hurt!)! I had the Ultrasound done on my right leg Monday as well. I received a phone call Friday afternoon, saying that, there is a mass in the thigh of my right leg. The doctor wants a MRI and/or CT scan done. I will be going in Wednesday afternoon for that. Results from the Ultrasound of the right breast and Mamo are yet to come. I will keep everyone posted. Please continue to pray for peace for me, as I am a little hyper about this mass in my leg. Also, pray that the lump in my left breast is non cancerous and has not grown.

Prayer

2008-09-15T09:15:00.003-07:00

I would like to ask if you could please keep me in your prayers. I have to go in for several x-rays at the Out Patient at Del Webb Hospital this morning. Then late this after noon, I will be getting an Ultrasound done on my right thigh. Friday I will be having an Ultrasound done on my left breast and a Mammorgram to check a lump that they found. I am a little hyper about all this and need peace. Thank you!

Haiti

2008-09-12T13:47:00.008-07:00

God has laid it upon my heart to pray for Haiti. Haiti was hit with Hurricane Ike, which is the latest of four storms (including, Hanna and Hurricane Gustav) that have killed from what I read and heard, anywhere from 300 to 600 people (and more deaths could emerge), according to Haitian officials, in the past 3 weeks. Others that were hit as well with Ike were Southern Bahamas, Caribbean, and Cuba's capital, Havana.

But, for what ever reason, God wants me to pray for Haiti and its people. My heart is heavy. Please join me (if felt lead) in prayer for these sweet people. Aid groups are focusing on relief operations as the nation tries to recover from the storms. Tropical storm Hanna and Hurricane Gustav have overwhelmed Haiti with floods and mudslides that have killed more than 130 people. The city of Gonaive is almost entirely cut off from the rest of the country. Officials call the situation "catastrophic."

Gonaive, Haiti is still almost entirely flooded after being hit last week by Tropical Storm Hanna.
Over the weekend, the outer bands of Ike came through the city, dumping even more rain. At this point this morning (Friday, Sept. 12th), there is still water covering most of the city in Gonaives. Ike is the fourth big storm to hit Haiti in less than a month.

The only people who have left Gonaives have been medically evacuated. All of the bridges, at this point, are now washed out. All of the road access into Gonaives is gone. People basically have just moved out of the city, the downtown part, into the part of the town that's further up the hill and up towards the mountain.

Foreign aid has been limited, in part because of the lack of road access. The U.N. has been flying helicopter flights. During the week, on Friday, they flew in 40 tons of supplies on helicopters, which is a record for them. They've been doing everything they can but then by Sunday, with Ike actually there, all helicopter flights were shut down, so it's been really sort of touch and go and quite difficult to get supplies in. Hanna wiped out all the food and supplies that had been stored in the town, so the need to replenish them is huge.

Basically, you have a town with almost nothing left in it after Hanna came through, and then on top of that you've got Ike coming through and doing another massive flooding. To some degree, most of these places were already flooded when Ike hit. It's a rather dire situation there, and the U.N. and aid agencies are trying to figure out how to assist people. Clean water is one major concern. Rain water has infiltrated wells, and the city no longer has the facilities to provide clean water to 300,000 people.

Here is a report that I wanted to post for you: PLEASE READ!

GONAIVES, Haiti, Sept 11 (Reuters) - Floods that devastated a Haitian city and killed hundreds threaten to trigger a health crisis and fresh outbreaks of food riots in the impoverished Caribbean country, government officials and aid workers say. Gonaives is not the only city in Haiti devastated primarily by Tropical Storm Hanna at the start of the month. But bringing help to the city of 300,000 is difficult because the storm downed bridges and cut all roads leading into it, so the only access is by helicopter and boat.

"There is a need for almost everything right now," said Oxfam program director Charlie Rowley. "It's food, very clearly. The hygiene situation is appalling. There is enormous overcrowding in the shelters," he said.

The conditions in the (temporary) camps are appalling. Because of the flooding and the mud, there is nowhere to put people."A senior Haitian health official said that without clean water there was a growing risk of epidemic and that the elderly and young were especially vulnerable without food.Haiti is one of the world's poorest countries, but the three storms that hit the country in the past few weeks, Hurricanes Gustav and Ike and particularly Tropical Storm Hanna, have provoked a national crisis, damaging infrastructure and flattening crops.

More than a week after Hanna filled Gonaives with water that rose as high as 15 feet (5 metres) and killed more than 500, according to the local police chief, the situation is in some ways stabilizing.

Thousands of women who lined up to receive 110-pound (50- kg) bags of rice at food distributions in Gonaives on Thursday showed signs of hunger and distress. Pregnant women are deemed a priority and were placed in a separate line but many found it difficult to wait for hours in the sun and some looked on the point of collapse.

"The storm (Hanna) took away everything we own," said Genise Oscar, 41, who is nine months pregnant. "The house is still standing but one part of it was destroyed by water."

Thousands of families who escaped to their roofs at the height of Tropical Storm Hanna are still living there because their houses remain uninhabitable. The storm wiped out the goods many people sell, diminishing their earning capacity, while food prices at the makeshift stalls set up on the sides of roads have since more than doubled, according to street traders.An equally pressing problem is water and sanitation.

They are in desperate need of food and water. They are starving and are fighting for any little thing! I am just heart broken for these precious people. I know there are other countries that are starving and such as well....but that is not what has been placed on my heart to post about.

Aaron

2008-09-04T08:47:00.008-07:00

Many of you already know this information, but I have family and other friends that wanna know more, so I am posting this for them.

Barbara and Damon Robinson are friends of ours from church. They have Aaron who is 3 1/2 years old and Ben who is 1 year. Morganne and Aaron are little buddies and love to play together. Aaron really loves animals and music.

On Wednesday morning, August 27, 2008, Barbara and Damon noticed that Aaron's leg was swollen. They took him into Urgent Care thinking that it was maybe a sprained leg/muscle. Urgent Care after looking at it for a few seconds, directed them to go straight to Phoenix Children's Hospital, thinking that it was maybe a blood clot. After several tests and scans at the hospital they concluded that Aaron has cancer.

August 30, 2008 the doctors put in a portable catheter which will make further treatments easier. They performed a test where they put a needle into each of his hips to test his bone marrow.

September 2, 2008 (AM) he had a body scan to see if it has spread to his lungs, pelvis or abdomen. If it is determined that it is just in his leg, he will have a very good prognosis. Wednesday (Sept. 3rd), Aaron will start in-patient chemotherapy for a couple of days, and hopefully go home this weekend for 3 weeks between treatments.

September 2, 2008 (PM) Thank You Jesus! Bone scan shows the cancer is only at the tumor site on the leg. There are a few very small nodules/spots on the lungs which are questionable. They could be cancer, or they could just be left over from an infection. Probably start Chemo tomorrow (Wednesday), then begin a routine of 2-3 days doing chemo in the hospital, then three weeks at home. This will last for about a year. They will make weekly hospital visits to have his white blood cells checked. Still awaiting the test results from the bone marrow which will come back tomorrow and should be able to fill in the rest of the puzzle. However, the doctor said that because the bones are clean, it is unlikely that the bone marrow will not be. There is a possibility that his cancer is Ewings Sarcoma, not Avelor Rhabdomyosarcoma. They look very similar under a microscope, and they should know which one it actually is tomorrow (Wednesday, Sept. 3rd).

September 3, 2008 (afternoon) Praise God! The Bone Marrow test came back clean! They will get more details once they have the next big meeting with the doctors (No one has told them when the meeting will be or when they are going to start Aaron on Chemo yet.)Aaron does have just a little bit of a runny nose today, so he had to stay out of the Toy Room. They don't know if that could effect when they start Chemo, but please pray that he gets over it quickly, just in case it is a factor.

Morganne and I took a little trip down to see Aaron, Barbara, and Damon today (Wednesday, September 3rd)! Morganne was feeling much better when we got home after being able to see that Aaron is okay. She has been praying for him daily and misses him.

September 3, 2008 (PM) Barbara and Damon had a meeting with the doctor and were told that because of the questionable spots they discovered on his lungs when they did the body scan, he will need to have a biopsy on his lung tomorrow, Thursday Sept. 4th. The doctor said this will be the most painful procedure he has had to date.There is still a possibility that the spot on the lung is just an infection or from the anesthesia. However, they said that if it is cancerous and larger than 1 centimeter, his treatment will be more intense than it will be if they find that the cancer is only on his leg. In addition, the doctor confirmed that his type of cancer is Ewing Sarcoma, not Avelor Rhabdomyosarcoma as they originally thought. Ewing Sarcoma is a much rarer cancer; However, Phoenix Children's Hospital has treated it there often with a good success rate.

September 4th---Today is Aaron's Lung Biopsy at 4:00pm! Please Lord, I pray that you be with Aaron, Barbara, and Damon during this day! Comfort them like only you can and give them peace. Be with Aaron Lord, let this test be as pain free as possible!

PRAYER:

-Please pray that the biopsy will show that there is not
cancer on Aaron's lungs
-Pray that Aaron will not have a lot of pain after the biopsy
-Pray for Barbara and Damon to have perseverence as this
has added at least another 3 days stay in the hospital
-Pray that God will give them His peace in this situation as
they wait for the test results

Aaron just couldn't stop hugging Morganne! They were so cute walking down the halls of the hospital holding hands. He wanted to show Morganne everything there was. He showed her the fishes and the train.

We love you guys!!

Heart

2008-08-31T08:15:00.004-07:00

Lord you know my heavy heart this morning. Please be with the Robinsons today.

Happy Birthday To You!

2008-08-28T15:52:00.001-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY CHRISTOFFER!

I can't believe that you are 9 years old! How the time flies! It seems like you were just 6lbs 4oz. You were so tiny to me! You were born on what was suppose to be your baby shower day, at 8:46 in the morning. We are so proud that you are our son. Your Dad and I have been so blessed by you. I love watching you grow closer to God everyday. Thank you for teaching me things!
I love who you are and who you are becoming. You are such a smart, funny, loving, soft hearted, God fearing boy. You are pretty clumsy though too! :) You AMAZE me!

Here is a glimpse of your 9 years!

August 28, 1999 (the day you were born)

9 days old

1 month old (September 28, 1999)

This is the sweet little boy that I miss so much! You were 3 years old here.

First grade

Mandy and Christoffer. (First Crush/Girlfirend) First Grade.

Dec. 2005 (6 years old)

Oct. 2006 (7 years old)

You love your brothers and sister! You are so sweet with them! I just love to watch you with them!

Decemeber 2007 (8 years old)

First day of Fourth grade!

Third broken arm! August 11, 2008.

August 28, 2008----My BIG 9 year old!

Morganne and I took lunch to Christoffer and Cupcakes for him and his class. We got Niccolas out of class to join us.

Here is Morganne playing with Christoffer and his good friend Lucas at recess time.

Had a great day with you sweetie! Can't wait for your party on Saturday!

Pray!

2008-08-27T18:36:00.004-07:00

Our friend's took their little boy to the doctor's today. The doctor then directed them to take their son to the Phoenix Children's Hospital. The doctor’s there have found a bone erosion on their sweet little boys left Femur. They are currently doing an MRI and tomorrow they will perform a biopsy on that part of his leg to further test for either Cancer or other possibilities that they are not sure of yet. Please be with this family and us in prayer! He is only 3 1/2 years old.

R.E.S.P.E.C.T

2008-08-25T21:26:00.006-07:00

The Six Pillars of Character

This is a program that Christoffer and Niccolas' school is doing. My guess is that all of Dysart schools are doing this, as to our friends Tammy and Brian's little girl, Hannah, just got awarded student of the month for Trustworthiness. Way to go Hannah!

Christoffer was the first student for the month of August and for the school year to be awarded for Respect at our school. We are so proud of you Christoffer. Keep up the great work! Student of the month! Way to Go!

Here are the Six Pillars:

Trustworthiness:
Be honest • Don’t deceive, cheat or steal • Be reliable — do what you say you’ll do • Have the courage to do the right thing • Build a good reputation • Be loyal — stand by your family, friends and country

Respect:
Treat others with respect; follow the Golden Rule • Be tolerant of differences • Use good manners, not bad language • Be considerate of the feelings of others • Don’t threaten, hit or hurt anyone • Deal peacefully with anger, insults and disagreements

Responsibility:
Do what you are supposed to do • Persevere: keep on trying! • Always do your best • Use self-control • Be self-disciplined • Think before you act — consider the consequences • Be accountable for your choices

Fairness:
Play by the rules • Take turns and share • Be open-minded; listen to others • Don’t take advantage of others • Don’t blame others carelessly

Caring:
Be kind • Be compassionate and show you care • Express gratitude • Forgive others • Help people in need

Citizenship:
Do your share to make your school and community better • Cooperate • Get involved in community affairs • Stay informed; vote • Be a good neighbor • Obey laws and rules • Respect authority • Protect the environment

My Baby

2008-08-23T18:34:00.008-07:00

I am so stinkin' proud of myself! I took these pictures of Jaxxon. I was playing around with my camera all day today. I drove the kids nuts. I even took pictures of odd ball things. I am posting only Jaxxon's pictures on this post and the others will follow. Here is my big boy. He is growing up so fast. I can't believe that next weekend he will be 10 months old. Hope you enjoy them!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOMMY!

2008-08-19T08:45:00.001-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU, HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU, HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEAR MOMMY, HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!

We miss you Mom! Wish we could be with you on your very special day! I am having a hard time not being with you! Have a great day! An Awesome year to come!

(My Mom is the one on the left. That is my Aunt Linda, my Moms sister on the right)

Fourth Day of Fourth

2008-08-14T14:25:00.002-07:00

Here is Christoffer today, getting ready to go out the door for school. He was trying to be excited about going to school today to show off his cast...but it wasn't working so well. Oh, baby, only 6 more weeks to go! (sorry)

He is wondering how he is going to be able to bowl at his Bowling Birthday Party in a couple weeks.

Blue

2008-08-13T20:56:00.006-07:00

We went today to see the Pediatric Orthopaedic Surgeon. We took the X-Rays in to him that were from the ER Monday night. He decided to take some of his own as well. He even took some of Christoffer's right arm for comparison. He was a little on the edge of what to do. He said its at the point where you should do surgery and at the point where it might heal on its own with out pins. He waited for 45mins before he finally decided what to do. He in that 45 mins. talked with other doctors and even did some research looking on the Internet. He didn't want to wait any longer with his arm not having anything on it to really protect it, since Christoffer is a boy and in the fourth grade and has siblings...too many chances for it to get bumped. But, surgery wouldn't be until Monday. So, he decided to put a cast on it, so that it would be more protected than a splint and sling. He is having Christoffer come back next week (1 week from today) to re-x-ray his arm. If things are starting to look like they are moving forward like he wants, then he will keep the cast on him for 6 weeks. If he doesn't like what he sees, then, Surgery. He said they will have to re-break it, push the bone back up towards where it needs and should be, and put pins in. Christoffer has been having a hard time with the thought of surgery. He has been in tears ever since we got in the car to come home. Please keep our little guy in your prayers.

Bye-Bye splint.

He got to choose from all kinds of colors. Dark blue, light blue, green, red, orange, purple, pink, black, white, and yellow. His favorite color is Red, but he chose light blue because he has already had red and because he wanted something light enough to where everyone could sign it. His doctor told him to have people sign it...and Chris liked that idea. (the doc. was trying to cheer him up) (he could tell Chris was having a hard time with all the talk of surgery) (plus Christoffer's arm was sore from all the movement)

Third Times a Charm---I guess

2008-08-12T21:11:00.001-07:00

Remember when I left you all hangin' on my last post?!? Okay, so yes, we will have a great year teacher wise, but maybe not in other ways...lol. Christoffer Monday night, first day of school, was sitting on the bathroom counter, looking at his many reflections in the mirror. He fell back, did a flip, still am not sure how, and fell right on his elbow, full impact. I decided to take him to the ER. Yup. Christoffer broke his arm, now for the third time. I am ever so amazed at his high tolerance of pain. You would have never thought or guessed that it was broken. Its a pretty bad break. Right above the elbow and part of the elbow. We see a surgeon tomorrow. There is talk of possible surgery. We didn't get home till 1:00am in the morning. Christoffer decided to go to school, but came home, went straight to his room, and 15 mins later, I check on him and find this........

Here slept 2 1/2 hours. This is him a little later. Poor sweet boy! His arm is in a sling and splint. We are going tomorrow to see surgeon and to get a possible cast put on.

Fourth Grade

2008-08-11T16:57:00.000-07:00

Okay so, this is a little hard for me. I HAVE A FOURTH GRADER soon to be NINE YEARS OLD too! Where does the time seriously go! I miss my little Tiffer, but am sure enjoying the little young man that I now have. He is so excited to be starting school! He has his favorite teacher back and I have to admit I am pretty excited about that too! What a great year this will be!! Or

so we thought..............

More to come!

First Day of First!

2008-08-11T16:05:00.000-07:00

Niccolas started First Grade today! He had a great day! He loves his teacher! I am so excited! We have been blessed once again with a teacher who totally understands Niccolas. See, Mrs. Connelly, Niccolas Kinder teacher has a daughter who has Tourette Syndrome. She understood Niccolas' issues. This year, his teacher has a son who has Severe Obsessive Compulsive Disorder along with some other issues. Which Niccolas has. Along with Tourettes comes great compulsiveness and along with having the sensory part of his brain damaged comes this as well. She has been fantastic with him and talking with him. When he feels the anger come over him with issues of whatever arises....she has told him to tell her and she will give him a time to calm down and make sure no one bothers him for that moment. So far, so Good! Rumor has it that she is a Pastors wife as well.

SCAN, SCAN

2008-08-04T16:57:00.005-07:00

My little guy! Poor, sweet baby! He had his scans today on his head. I don't know if it was tuffer on me or him. Love you baby!

Thank you for all your prayers for Jaxxon and our family. He is starting to get seizures closer together. Oh, I hope they find whats goin' on! It's tough to see him shake like he does.

Oh Nicc!

2008-08-02T17:34:00.000-07:00

When school comes around, I always go on a cleaning veng with the kiddos rooms. Pulling out all the clothes that don't fit them, putting together "new" play clothes (old clothes that will now be considered play clothes), hanging up all the brand new school/church clothes, and cleaning out and reorganizing all their toys (preparing for new Christmas and birthday gifts). This usually take me 2 days a room. I had started Niccolas' room the day before. I told him today, "Don't you want me to finish cleaning your room?" He said, "No!" I said, "Why not?" Niccolas said, "Because then I can play and get things out and not have to put them away." I wish that I would have thought to take a piture of his room. You couldn't even step on the carpet. Clothes, piles, and toys were everywhere.

I just thought this was funny! When he said it, I cracked up! I guess you had to be there!

Visiting NaNa Pics.

2008-07-31T07:12:00.007-07:00

We had such a great time in California with my Mom. It was very hard to leave. Here are some pictures of the kiddos swimming. This is all I have pictures of, because this is all they did when we were up there! No Joking!

This was Jaxxon's very first time in a pool/swimming. He loved it! He slapped the water with his hands, kicked his feet, and danced. Morganne had fun playing with the water toys that NaNa got her...and the boys well...they amused us on several different occasions. Some of them being, skinny dipping when the sun went down, doing crazy jumps and dives in the deep end that they made up, going on the slide with no water, doing back flips off of the diving board. I can't believe that I have another boy that will soon be doing these things too! Oh Man, what am I going to do!

Jaxxon's EEG

2008-07-30T16:11:00.011-07:00

Jaxxon has been having seizures. He started when he was six months old and has had a total of 7 all together. I had to take him Friday, July 25th and have him admitted into the Phoenix Children's Hospital for the day. They ended up doing two EEG's one in the morning and one late in the afternoon. We also meet with the Neurologist that day. I had to have him super sleepy for the EEG. They told me not to have him sleep. Okay...so this sounded easy...but it was not. He had to be admitted into the hospital at 9:00am and his EEG wasn't schedule until 10:15am. He normally takes a long nap at 9:30. Well, he just so happened woke up 45 mins. earlier than normal for him that morning. Then we still had a long ride from Surprise to Phoenix on the freeway to try and keep him awake! I was shaking his car seat, tapping his little sweet cheeks, talking to him, calling his name to try and keep little man awake during the ride. We got off the freeway, turned into the parking lot of the hospital and out he went. Nothing would wake him up. He ended up getting about a 10 min. cat nap while I had to drive around and find a parking spot in the parking garage. I felt so bad for him, he was so sleepy!! I took a few pictures of his sleepy little face on our way there. The Neurologist is a different one than what Niccolas has. He was pretty nice. He wants us to admitt Jaxxon into the Pediatric Epilepsy Monitoring Unit (PEMU) at the Phoenix Children's Hospital for 3 to 4 days. Not sure when we will do this, as to, we have to wait for scheduling to call us and then on our end figure out what to do with our other three kiddos, and Tommys work situation. He would like to be able to be of some help and support during these days for Jaxxon and I. He is talking with his work on how to get paid/excused days for this. As we wait for some of these questions to be answered, filled, and or taken care of, we will be admitting Jaxxon again to the PCH on Monday at 8:00am for a Catscan and possible MRI. We have to prep him for sedation the night before and morning of for him possibly being put under. Tommy thankfully have this day off and our dear friend Erica will be taking Morganne and Christoffer for us. We will just take Niccolas along with us. Please keep us in your prayers. We have to be at the hospital an hour before his actual testings. Jaxxon won't be having the testing done until 9:15am....

Below are some pictures of what our little man did on Friday.

Here is my Monkey in the car ride to hospital wishing that Mommy would just let him sleep.

PS: THANK YOU TO ALL OF YOU WHO HELPED US WITH WATCHING OUR OTHER THREE KIDDOS THAT DAY--ALL DAY! WHAT A BLESSING YOU ALL ARE! I COULDN'T HAVE DONE IT WITHOUT YOU ALL!

Hubby.Date.Couseling.

2008-07-29T12:09:00.000-07:00

My sweet husband Tommy and I were able to get out for sometime for just us this last Saturday. We went to dinner and a movie! I love this man with all my heart. Please keep us in your prayers as to we are trying to improve our marriage and are going to marriage counseling. We want the best out of marriage that we can get and want to show our kiddos what a healthy marriage looks like.