Happy 7-11! A Great Day for a Slushy!

Monday night we treated mom out to dinner since she had had a long day waiting for news on Jamie. We decided to go to Hoss' Steakhouse since that establishment seems pretty kid-friendly. Joshua was loud (I wonder where he gets that from) but not bad. He just liked to talk to everyone, and yelped once when he was out of food, which was our fault since we were talking and not paying attention.

Tuesday, I took Joshua with me to the worship practice/Harp & Bowl "Dwelling Places" intercession night (I'm not quite sure what they're calling it now). As a team member, I'm supposed be there every Tuesday night and early Sunday mornings to participate; and after getting Shawn's permission, I've decided to take da' Bean along on nights that I'm not playing the piano so that Shawn can have time to himself to relax, list stuff on Ebay or get things done around the house. It went okay, I'd say. Joshua loves music, and he absolutely loved watching one of the singers dance with flags up front, not to mention the ceiling fans catching his attention. I spread a blanket out on the floor and put toys down so he could play. The only "issue" we had was that Joshua LOVES to talk and babble. The music got quiet for time of intercession and Joshua yelled "Dadadadada!" Since the music was loud, he was determined that he needed to be heard over it. One of the prayer warriors Elaine came up and noted that he was making a joyful noise to the Lord. I don't THINK anyone was bothered by it. I had cleared him coming with the worship leader in advance, so since she didn't mind, I assumed it wasn't a big deal. I struggle with knowing when to stay and when to take him out. He wasn't crying, screaming, being bad, or upset. He was quite happy and just talkative, no matter what the "mood" was during worship at that moment. So, I left him in and tried to keep him occupied as much as possible. Maybe someday he'll have an interest in playing music or singing, or maybe he'll express his worship and adoration of the Lord in a different way, which is okay too.

Today I met Mom for lunch in at the hospital. Joshua did pretty well there, too. He's getting better at being out and about in public places. She said Jamie might be moved today back to the 8th floor out of the neurotrauma unit. He's very aggitated that he's in the hospital and keeps asking her to take him home. He also has less use of his leg and couldn't stand today. We're continuing to pray for them. And, I'm praising God for our health. May we never take an easy step, a quick breath, a day of feeling great, etc. for granted!

These pictures are of Joshua standing. When we try to sit him down to play, he prefers to stand; however, he wants us to do the balancing for him. I've also seen him do the army crawl in very short doses. Right now, he's taking a long nap. I hope he sleeps tonight! I cleaned all three bathrooms, put away laundry, emptied the dishwasher, etc. and he's still not awake. Shawn is at Wal-Mart buying the items we need for this weekend. Pray that tenting with Joshua goes well! The last picture on this post absolutely cracked me up when I saw it. Shawn had taken it, and I thought "What are you staring at on the carpet?" Doesn't he look like a cat ready to pounce?

Final Reflections

I've skipped reflections from time to time for one reason or another. Sometimes, they didn't seem like they were appropriate for that time (like talking about receiving gifts right before my birthday or about complimenting my cooking after I had just ruined a meal, etc.) while others seemed too special and appropriate to share publicly at the time. I figured I would end this portion of the blog similarly to how fireworks are ended on 4th of July - a glorious array of many together for one beautiful finally. I LOVE YOU SHAWN WITH ALL MY HEART. THANK YOU FOR BEING A DREAM HUSBAND!!!

Reflection 3: Our Love Grows and Our Marriage Benefits by Your Continued Consideration for Me.
I Appreciate It When You Do as Much to Keep Me as You Did to Get Me.
Cross the mountain, swim the stream, kill the dragon, let me drive your car. Once upon a time there was nothing you wouldn't do to win me, and that was exciting. What is even more exciting is the fact that now you have me, you're still willing to do whatever it takes to keep me. You're still my greatest admirer and the king of kind gestures. Every time you bring me flowers or ask what I'd like to do for fun, you show me that I'm still special to you. Every woman wants to be treasured, not just when she's young and cute, but all her life. What a wonderful thing it is that you treasure me and that I have your actions as proof.

'Husbands who have the courage to be tender enjoy marriages that mellow through the years.' ~Brendan Francis

Husbands should love their wives as [being in a sense] their own bodies. He who loves his own wife loves himself. For no man ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and carefully protects and cherishes it, as Christ does the church. Ephesians 5:28-29 AMP

Reflection 7: Because You Follow God, I Can Trust You to Lead Us Safely.
As Long as You Trust God to Guide Your Decisions, Your Decisions Will Always Be Wise Ones.
Some husbands simply can't be trusted. They use poor judgment, make bad decisions, and make their wives nervous and worried. They follow their impulses and trust their own wisdom to guide them. But you look to wisdom greater than your own. You look to God to guide your decision-making, and you allow His rules to govern your behavior. That is why I trust you. I trust you with my heart because I know you would never intentionally break it. I trust you with our finances because I know you won't act selfishly. Because you want to live a life that makes God happy, you live in a way that makes me happy too. Your wise leadership contributes to my good night's sleep every night.

'Wisdom is the ability to use knowledge so as to meet successfully the emergencies of life. Men may acquire knowledge, but wisdom is a gift direct from God.' ~Bob Jones

Only the Lord gives wisdom; he gives knowledge and understanding. Proverbs 2:6 NCV

Reflection 8: Admitting Your Mistakes Makes You a Big Man.
Being Brave Enough to Admit Your Mistakes Makes You a Big Man, Especially in My Eyes.
It can be hard to admit when you're wrong. It's not a guy kind of thing to do. A man maintains respect by never backing down, never backing off, and never stopping to ask for directions. Right? To admit you were wrong is to acknowledge weakness. But to admit you were wrong is also to admit the truth. That's vital, because wrong things need to be fixed and it's hard to fix what you don't acknowledge - rather like standing on the deck of the Titanic saying "What iceberg?" When you admit your mistakes, others appreciate your honesty. They think, "Here's a man who's not afraid to be human. I can trust him to deal straight with me." The confidence your humility inspires in others is what makes you a big man.

'More people would learn from their mistakes if they weren't so busy denying them.' ~Harold J. Smith

Confess to one another therefore your faults (your slips, your false steps, your offenses, your sins) and pray [also] for one another, that you may be healed and restored [to a spiritual tone of mind and heart]. The earnest (heartfelt, continued) prayer of a righteous man makes tremendous power available [dynamic in its working]. Jamese 5:16 AMP

Reflection 12: Good Friends & Interesting Hobbies are as Important as a 401(k) Plan.
The Friendships You're Developing and the Activities You're Enjoying Will Benefit You Both Now and in the Future.
Every man eventually reaches retirement if he lives long enough. Most men plan for it in varying degrees, depending on pension plans or investments to carry them through their post-work years. But not all men consider other investments they need to ensure good retirement. Because you're a wise man, I know when you look ahead you see the big picture. You understand it takes more than money to make those golden years golden. You know you'll need a reason to get up in the morning and buddies to encourage you to keep going and doing in spite of the aches and pains of old age. Go out with the guys with my blessing. Pursue your interests, and develop your support system. I understand that you're investing in your future.

'The better part of one's life consists of his friendships.' ~Abraham Lincoln

A friend loves you all the time, and a brother helps in times of trouble. Proverbs 17:17 NCV

Reflection 17: Compliment My Cooking, and I Guarantee You Will Always Eat Well.
A Sincere Compliment When You've Enjoyed a Meal is Always in Good Taste.
Creating in the kitchen is an art form. Putting together ingredients, combining tastes and texture, ensuring a good nutricious balance - it all takes thought, preparation, time, and labor. It's a labor of love, and you are well worth the effort. I'll make even more of an effort if I know I'm cooking for my biggest culinary fan. So dish out the compliments. Smile and show me you love my cooking and my company. Unlike other artists, my creations don't last, but your appreciation will help the satisfaction of accomplishment linger. If you like something, let me know. When you see I've outdone myself, state the obvious. I don't mind. Your appreciation is my best inspiration. The more appreciation you show, the more inspired I'll get!

'A cheerful look makes a dish a feast.' ~George Herbert

She's up before dawn, preparing breakfast for her family and organizing her day. Proverbs 31:15

Reflection 22: I Love Getting Gifts From You Because They Are Visible Proof of Your Love.
The Fact that You Ignore Me When I Say, "Oh, Don't Buy Me Anything" Proves You're a Genious.
You are such a smart man! You have figured out that female-speak has a text and a subtext. When I tell you I don't need you to buy me anything, you that is, of course, not what I'm really saying. What I'm really saying is, "I'd feel guilty if you bought me something because you thought you had to, and I don't want you to feel coerced. But I love presents, and I especially love presents from you. I hope you'll go out and do exactly what I asked you not to, because I'll be delighted and flattered if you do." So, why don't I just come out and say that? Different wiring, of course. And, I figure you should know. And you do. Thanks for speaking my language.

'God has given us two hands, one to receive with and the other to give with.' ~Billy Graham

He brought out gifts of silver and gold and clothing and gave them to Rebekah. He also gave expensive gifts to her brother and mother. Genesis 24:53 MSG

Reflection 23: My Love Notes From You are Treasures I Will Hoard My Whole Life.
No Love Note You Write to Me Will Ever Be Taken for Granted.
I enjoy my knicknacks: mementos from our travels, pretty decorations bought on sale, gifts from friends. I love the jewelry you've given me, especially my wedding ring. Our photo albums are equally priceless. The best treasure I'll ever possess, however, is a love note from you, the most important person in my life. I read your tender words and delight in your desire. I smile and think of happy times and shared laughter. Words are important to us women, and yours are important to me, especially the ones you surprise me with on paper. Those words are written proof of what we have. When I hold a love letter from you, I hold the deed to something more valuable than the world's richest gold mine.

'When expressions of love are unsolicited, they are invaluable.' ~Diana Hagee

Many waters cannot quench your love, neither can floods drown it. If one offered for love all the wealth of one's house, it would be utterly scorned. Song of Solomon 8:7 NRSV

Reflection 33: Turning Your Dreams into Goals Can Turn Them into Reality.
I'm Behind You 100%, so Take Your Dreams to the Next Level and Set the Goals You'll Need to Meet to Make Them a Reality.
To have a dream is to acknowledge that God has plans for you. A dream is a gift born of creativity and ambition. The only thing better is a dream come true. Often all that is lacking to make that happen is a goal. A goal makes it all so much more real, doesn't it? It's like being on a football field, keeping your eye on that goal post, and ticking off the yardage you score with each new down. I want to see you make as many of your dreams come true as possible, so I hope you'll boldly set goals and develop a game plan. I know every time you start planning that exciting things will start happening for you.

'A good archer is not known by his arrows but his aim.' ~Thomas Fuller

I press on toward the goal for the prize of the heavenly call of God in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:14 NRSV

Reflection 41: Always Remember, God Made You Especially for One Woman, Me!
God Blesses You Because You Care About Proving You're God's Gift to Only One Woman.
Thank you for being a lady's man instead of a ladies' man, for making me the one woman you love to impress. Thank you for concentrating all your love and energy on me, your wife. That kind of commitment earns rewards that a straying husband forfeits. You enjoy a peaceful home, free of tearful scenes and high-voltage wifely wrath. You sleep the restful sleep that comes with a clear conscience. You retain the respect of family and friends. Even more important, you retain your self-respect. You can face yourself in the mirror every morning. Only an insecure man needs to prove he's God's gift to women. You are a special man and a wonderful husband. Trust me. You don't have to prove anything.

'Marriage is not a metaphysical status, which cannot be destroyed; it is rather a moral commitment, which should be honored.' ~David Atkinson

Let your fountain [of human life] be blessed [with the rewards of fidelity], and rejoice with the wife of your youth. Let her be as the loving hind and pleasant doe [tender, gentle, attractive]; let her bosom satisfy you at all times; and always be transported with delight in her love. Proverbs 5:18-19 AMP

Reflection 51: Nothing Time Can Do Will Erode My Love for You.
I Will Always Think You're the Best, With or Without Your Hair.
You had me before hello. The first time I saw you, I knew you were one of a kind. You proved me right. Your smile could make my heart hit overdrive, and your kiss could curl my toes. I could happily give up beauty sleep to stay up talking with you. And you know what? You still have that effect on me. I love your sense of humor. I love the way I fit so well in your arms. I love your heart. I love your charming ways. I love the way you look at me with a gleam and a smile. I'll always look into your eyes and see a beautiful soul; who cares how many laugh lines sneak around them? No matter how your body changes over the years, you'll always be my ideal man.

'True love's the gift which God has given to man alone beneath the heavens.' ~Walter Scott

Listen! My lover! Look! Here he comes, leaping across the mountains, bounding over the hills. Song of Solomon 2:8 NIV

UPDATE

For all who have been praying and wondering, Jamie's surgery went well. He's now in the neurotrauma unit, and mom said he was awake and talking to her. I don't think he'll be able to have other visitors for awhile, but I'm sure that depends on his progress. The surgeon was able to get 75% of the tumors. So, they will see what chemo can do for him and if the tumors continue to aggressively grow. It is all in God's hands, and thankfully His will is perfect.

Brain Surgery

Today's the day - Jamie will go around 10 a.m. to have an MRI and then his actual surgery starts at 1 o'clock. It's supposed to last around four hours, so I probably won't hear anything until supper time. I also told mom that if she needs company, I'm available. I think some of Jamie's family might go in, and I want to make sure she has enough 'space.' I was wrong about the type of surgery they're doing - they are actually going to cut him open to get out as much of the tumors as they can; the neurosurgeon said that it's difficult to tell what's brain and what's tumor. I cried last night when mom told me that Jamie told the doctors that he does not wish to be on machines or rescutitated, so they gave him a blue wristband. I think I'd rather have them tattoo my hiney than see a wristband that reminds me... Please pray for Mom & Jamie both today when you think of it...for peace and God's will to be done.

Getting Ready for the Family Reunion

Shawn set up our tent in the backyard yesterday to make sure it's still in good shape! Yep, looks great! Joshua approves! This year we're going to try to tent for his family reunion and see how it goes. I think we may end up using Brian & Gayle's tent, though, since it's bigger and let Missy & Kevin use ours. Slate Run, here we come! Last year, the family prayed for us and da' Bean during the Sunday morning church service months before he was born. This year, he'll get to smile at everyone. :)

Also this coming weekend, Dad & Annette are coming up to meet Daniel. This will be the second time he's seen Joshua in person - I'm sure he looks a lot bigger this time than the 5-6 lb baby we had when he was here in November! I'm looking forward to seeing them! Drive safely Grandpa Georgia! Don't forget our peach muffins and all the toys you've bought!

Splash-arama!

I loved this video - poor Joshua's hat kept falling down over his little eyes. When we tie it in the front, he sucks the strings but it doesn't quite work when we try to put them behind his back. (The sound is one of mom's neighbors mowing or trimming their hedges.) My two boys having fun in the sun!

The 7th Day of the 7th Month of the Year '07

Big news! Joshua got his 5th tooth today! It's on his right side next to his top two front teeth. I saw it this morning and felt it when I was brushing his teeth. Hooray!Today was actually an eventful day, both on earth & in the Spiritual realm, I'm sure. Nationally, "the Call" happened in Tennessee and a group from our church was going down to be there while others watched from a rebroadcast in Ephrata. In a newsletter sent from my friends Kris & Brian Flewelling who are missionaries with Eagles Wings, they said this about the Call:

Thousands of people, including hundreds of nationally known Church leaders from around the country, are gathering in Nashville, TN on July 7th, 2007. This isn’t just a festival or another conference or fancy concert. These people are joining together for a “solemn assembly for the whole Body of Christ, a day of fasting, prayer, repentance and worship.” This is a moment in American history when God is calling America back to covenant with him, back to consecration. July 7th, 2007 is a day of covenant. In the Bible, the word ‘oath’ literally comes from the word ‘seven’ because they would repeat their vows seven times. Also, 2007 is a covenant year for America, the 400th anniversary of the planting of the cross in Virginia. We believe that if the Church will gather to fast and pray, God will visit America in an historic awakening again.

So, 07.07.07 is a big day! Today was also my sister Jen & Mike's wedding anniversary - hope it was a happy one! Shawn, Joshua & I went swimming at Mom's house even though they weren't home. Joshua splished splashed and seemed to enjoy himself, even though the water was a little chilly. Shawn got to see him swimming, too, which was a new treat for Daddy. Isn't the picture above adorable? Poor Joshua's hat kept sliding over his eyes. Soooo cute! Becky came over while we were there. It was nice to see her, too. After we were finished and Joshua soaked up some sun with his lunchtime bottle, we went and visited Mom & Jamie in the hospital. Joshua did really well this time, too. He slept beforehand in the car and looked so adorable when we went to get him out.

After we got back, I cleaned our outdoor toys that we had bought at a yardsale, along with some tub toys, emptied my car and cleaned it, gave the bushes and ivy out front a "hair cut" with small loppers Shawn found, and played with Joshua in the grass. When we were done, I brought Joshua in with me, made dinner (which was delicious!), fed him his supper, and allowed Shawn some time to get work done. After I cleaned up the dishes, I gave the Bean a bath (washing away all the sunscreen out of his hair), and he loved it, along with his new toys. Shawn started feeding him a bottle while I got a shower, and the Bean was completely zonked in moments. Speaking of which, it's about my bedtime, too. I'm praying that Joshua sleeps through the night!

Please also pray for a family who is friends with my friend Julie. Their two-year-old little girl Alivia went to be with the Lord Friday morning after a battle with Leukemia. I was reading their blog and bawled. Shawn also got teary...as Julie said it's a joyous day for heaven and a sad day on earth. I can't imagine losing a child, and our thoughts and prayers go out to them.

Happenings

Great New Diaper Bag
Last night Joshua and I were playing, and I heard the thunder begin. It had been gorgeous out, but I suspected a storm must not be far off. It was his dinner time, so I put him in his high chair and turned on the radio just in time to hear the National Weather Service issuing a thunderstorm warning - the rain began to pour furiously! Just at that time, the doorbell rang. Our poor soaked mailman was delivering a package - hooray! We ordered a new-to-us large Lands End diaper bag off eBay for $6.99, and I LOVE it. It has lots of compartments and all the storage I need. I would highly recommend it for any moms looking for more capacity - between his food, extra clothing "in case", diapers, toys, etc. I needed something bigger and the price was right! Yeah!


New Words
Joshua has just begun to say "no, no, no, no, no, no" (just like that!) when we do something that he doesn't like. For example, tonight Shawn put him on the floor and was trying to make him crawl so he kept inching back away from him and to the side. Joshua was scootching and saying "no, no, no, no, no, no, no" at the same time. We giggled - he is adding to his vocabulary everyday!


New Game
When Joshua was at Nonie & Poppy's house today (I had a meeting I needed to go to and they were kind enough to watch him), Nonie would ask "Where's Poppy?" and he would look at him. Then she would say "Where's Buddy?" and he actually looked down on the floor until he found him to fix his eyes on their dog, who he loves. I was impressed. It's not a game we've played before, but he caught on quickly. Nonie said that Joshua reminds her of Jordon, who is one of the smartest kids I've ever met. I took it as a huge compliment. She said he's so sharp that you can tell already, and he's also such a good baby and easy to read. You can tell when he's hungry, tired, wants to play, etc. I'm so glad he was good for them!


Hospital Visit
After I picked up Joshua from Nonie & Poppy's, we went to the hospital to visit Mom & Jamie. Yesterday they had lots of company, and today Joshua & I were the first ones (we got there about 4:30 p.m.). He ate while we were there, grunted and filled his diaper in front of a cute nurse that he smiled at (she called him a flirt), and played with toys on a blanket on the floor for a little while which kept him pretty occupied. We didn't stay too long, but I know Jamie & Mom both love kiddos and I think it's nice to have something take their minds off the current situation, even momentarily. Jamie is slotted to have surgery Monday at 1 p.m.

Reflection 50: The Key to a Good Life is to be Honest, Especially with Yourself

When You Are Honest First With Yourself, You'll Find It Easier to Be Honest With God and Others.
Honesty is the best policy. We've heard that often enough, haven't we? And haven't we found it to be true! You avoid so many awkward social situations and misunderstandings simply by being honest. Honesty earns the respect and trust of others and keeps your moral compass set on heaven. Still, sometimes it is hard to be honest, especially with yourself. It's not always easy to admit your shortcomings and needs or to look at your true motivation for certain behavior. I know, because I often have a hard time being honest with myself. But honesty is the only tool for digging to the root of a problem. Honesty is the only broom that sweeps our hearts clean. Let's ask God to keep us honest always, with each other and with ourselves.

'Our lives improve only when we take chances - and the first and most difficult chance we can take is to be honest with ourselves.' ~Walter Anderson

Search me, oh God, and know my heart; test me and know my thoughts. Psalm 139:23

Independence Day

Today we still met Jen & Mike & their kiddos (Grace, Faith, Emma & Daniel) at Mom's house even though she and Jamie weren't there. Becky declined our invitation, which I don't blame her since it was a little on the chilly side and rained for part of the time. The girls didn't care what the weather was like - swimming was top priority for this July 4th! They were sooo cute! Shawn & I were cracking up at some of their comments. We brought the macaroni salad I had made and an apple pie, while they brought homemade icecream, corn on the cob and hot dogs. Mom had already bought the hamburgers, buns, etc. and told us to use them. It was fun, even though we were a little sad that they couldn't be there. The first picture on this post is Grace kissing Joshua. All three girls swarmed him the minute we got there, as you can see in the picture below. The picture on the left is Faith continually giving me a heart attack by reaching in the pool even when she was in "street clothes." All of the kids, which you can't really tell in these pictures, are wearing their American flag shirts from Old Navy that Grandma had bought them. They are super cute all together!Poor Daniel as you can see in the above picture slept through most of our time there. He woke up only at the the end since he was hungry & needed his diaper changed. Someday he'll get to join in the fun! Jen just went and had pictures taken of all four of her kiddos and some of Daniel by himself. He's wearing Joshua's little outfit that the Bean wore for his four month pictures. I can't get over how much hair Daniel has! Joshua has this little tuft, also affectionately referred to as his 'mohawk' at our house, where Daniel has this full head of dark thick hair. The girls love their little brother, which is adorable.

After we left there, I took Jamie's toothbrush into the hospital for Mom. He was sleeping when I got there, so Mom & I had a chance to visit. When he woke up, we turned on the weather channel since the loudspeaker boomed that there was a tornado warning and nurses were to prepare. I left not long thereafter to come home and see Shawn & Joshua, my two best buddies. :)

Back in the Hospital

Yesterday before the light of dawn, I dreamed that mom called and left a message on our voicemail. When Shawn was leaving for work, I asked him what the message was. He told me nobody had called. Around 7:30 am, I heard the cell phone ring and knew that mom needed something. After finding the phone, I found out she was looking for Shawn and had NOT called our house. She was hoping to catch him on his way past their house before work because Jamie had fallen and she needed help. Unfortunately, both cell phones were next to each other - one in the diaper bag and one in my purse. Doh! I told her I was on my way, and I grabbed the Bean in his pajamas, a bottle & his diaper bag and we quickly left. When we got there, Jamie was sitting up on the floor in the living room, and it wasn't too difficult to get him up to the couch. From there, we all went to the dining room to eat breakfast together. Joshua ate pancakes for the first time! He only had about five small bites, but he seemed to enjoy them. We stayed through lunchtime, making macaroni salad with mom's non-written recipe and allowing mom some time to get out and get some groceries for our July 4th picnic. Joshua loved hanging out with Grandpa Jamie and smiled & gabbed away. The two seemed to enjoy each other's company and even napped at the same time.

Yesterday when Mom & Jamie saw the oncologist, Mom explained that he's no longer able to walk and she's having a difficult time lifting him (her arm is already in a brace). They admitted him back to the hospital, where they've found two new tumors. Both of them need your prayers. This is a difficult time because Jamie loves his independence and truly wants to be able to walk, get outside and do things. Mom wants desperately to take care of him and really can't anymore. Please pray for wisdom and God's divine intervention. We are asking for complete healing or that he will meet Jesus face to face without suffering any more on earth. The picture above is of Jamie ringing the bell after completing all the radiation treatments.

Ringing the Bell!

This weekend we started pulling weeds (I say started because our overgrown yard is a never-ending process), Shawn mowed the lawn, and we spent time together as a family. Last night we were watching a movie and Joshua was playing with his toy phone. When it started to ring, Shawn paused the movie and said to me, "Can you get that?" since he thought our phone was ringing. I giggled and told him Joshua would take care of it.

Yesterday I helped lead worship at church, but Shawn & Joshua never showed. The Bean has been keeping us awake at night - almost as much as when he was fresh out of the hospital. Saturday night I begged Shawn to take him so that I could get enough sleep to be able to sing, and during church they both desperately needed the nap. Last night I let Joshua cry a solid 15 minutes but eventually went in and got him. I don't like to keep getting up with him (I don't want to create a habit) but I also don't want him to be lying there in pain and alone. Poor little one! Poor exhausted us again! Last night he yelled "Mama!" distinctly. It melted my heart.

This morning mom watched Joshua for almost an hour so I could run some errands. When I got back, she was feeding him some peas, and he promptly sneezed just as the spoon was going toward his mouth - peas flew EVERYWHERE. This very accidental mess was a funny sight. She told me that today is the last day of radiation for Jamie so he gets to ring a bell! Neat-o! The chemo also stops now for four weeks. During that time, we all head to the beach! Yahoo!

Reflection 49: A Good Dose of Bible Reading is Your Best Cure for Doubt

When You Make Your Bible Your Number One Read, You Make Your Soul Healthy.
Doubt is a common affliction. Its symptoms vary, but the most common ones are fear, worry, a reluctance to move forward, and confusion. Doubt can make a man question his choices and fail to use his talents. It can blind him to the bright presence of God in the middle of sorrow or difficulty. But therer is a powerful cure for doubt, and I hope you'll always reach for this cure when even the smallest symptoms of doubt arise. The cure is your Bible. In its pages, you'll find megadoses of courage, hope, insight, and guidance, and evidence of love far beyond what even I, your wife, can ever give you. I hope you'll dose yourself often, because if you do we'll both benefit.

'No spiritual discipline is more important than the intake of God's word.' ~Donald S. Whitney

Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. Psalm 119:105

Fun w/ Friends & Family

Yesterday, I put sunscreen & a swimsuit on Joshua, and we headed over to mom's where I met Julie & 16-month-old Jude. Julie was cracking me up with her stories - it's always fun to see them! Joshua splashed for a little bit, and then decided it was time for his nap. In the meantime, Mom & Jamie came home from radiation and brought Grace back with them to spend the night. She came barreling down the deck stairs while Mom helped Jamie out of the car and inside to rest. Grace got buck naked to change into her suit that was hanging outside to dry before I could say a word. Jude stood right in front of her with a look of awe on his face. It was a comical scene. Isn't it funny how kids love each other? While Joshua napped on a bed of towels in the shade, we continued to swim. It was a fun afternoon, even though my shoulders are a little burnt!
A funny story from a few days ago that I forgot to post: I was teaching Joshua the song "On top of spaghetti, all covered in cheese, I lost my poor meatball, when somebody..." at that exact moment, Joshua sneezed. I cracked up! He didn't do it on purpose, but it couldn't have come at a more opportune time! He also enjoys playing patty cake. We're starting to teach him how to wave, too. I rarely think about it, but Grandma Ginder was showing him while Grandpa Ginder was teaching him the two-finger "Harley" wave. When Mom came home and stood on the deck and waved at Joshua, she said he waved right back. Hooray!

Here are some pictures of Joshua 'reading' and playing with his dinosaur toy we bought him. He likes watching us play with it, but he has yet to reach out and put the balls in the holes by himself.

The video I put below is a song by Geoff Moore that mom heard on the radio the other day that sent her to tears. I watched the video, and I cried, too. What hope we have for eternal life in Christ! I pray that all my friends & family are saved so that they, too, have this hope!

When I Get Where I'm Going

When I Get Where I'm Going by Geoff Moore
When I get where I’m going
On the far side of the sky
The first thing that I’m gonna do
Is spread my wings and fly
I’m gonna land beside a lion
And run my fingers through his mane
Or I might find out what it’s like
To ride a drop of rain

Chorus:
Yeah, when I get where I’m going
There’ll be only happy tears
I will shed the sins and struggles
I have carried all these years
And I’ll leave my heart wide open
I will love and have no fear
Yeah, when I get where I’m going
Don’t cry for me down here

I’m gonna walk with my granddaddy
And he’ll match me step for step
And I’ll tell him how I’ve missed him
Every minute since he left
(chorus)

So much pain and so much darkness
This world we stumble through
All these questions I can’t answer
So much work to do
But when I get where I’m going
And I see my maker’s face
I’ll stand forever in the light
Of His amazing grace
(chorus)

Reflection 48: One Reason God Gave You Two Arms is So You Can Comfort Your Wife

Your Tenderness Helps Me Find New Strength.
I appreciate the fact that you use your eyes to see when something's bothering me, and you use your ears to listen to my troubles. What I like best about you is when you use your strong arms to comfort me. I need that comfort when I'm discouraged or disheartened, when I'm hurt and need to be reminded that someone cares and that it will be all right. Life can throw some unexpected punches. Sometimes it can deliver a real emotional knockout. But knowing you're here with me and there for me, that you care about me, helps heal the hurts. Your arms around me remind me that God put us together, not only to share good times, but also to comfort each other in hard times.

'In misery it is a comfort to have a companion.' ~John Lyly

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is the Father who is full of mercy and comfort. He comforts us every time we have trouble, so when others have troubles we can comfort them with the same comfort God gives us. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4

Joshua Plays Before Bed

New Blog Format

Thanks for visiting the our blog today! I thought it was time for a change, so I "freshened up" the site a little bit. Missing the pictures of our little family? I put them at the bottom of this site for your enjoyment. Happy reading!

Reflection 47: Always Remember that God is With You No Matter What.

God Will Be With You in Any Adventure to Which He Calls You.
Life is a series of adventures, isn't it? And sometimes a new adventure can look scary, even to a man as brave as you are. Illness, loss, risk - who knows what lies further down the road for us? Who knows what difficult decisions you will be called to make? One thing you can know: God will be with you every step of the way. That's why He wants you to keep your hero's attitude, to be ready to follow Him wherever He leads you. He wants you to be like the ancient hero Joshua, who refused to let giants scare him away from the Promised Land. I know God has your own Promised Land waiting for you. He'll make sure you get there.

'All the resources of the Godhead are at our disposal!' ~Jonathan Goforth

Don't be afraid, for I am with you. Do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you. I will help you. I will uphold you with my victorious right hand. Isaiah 41:10

Check-up

Last night, we went to the pediatrician for Joshua's 9 month well-baby check-up. We told Dr. Tifft the findings from CHOP, and he seemed confident that Joshua will outgrow his reflux issues. I was surprised by his confidence, but that's what I'm believing for, too. NO MORE SURGERIES! Joshua weighed 21.6 lbs - the 70th percentile for weight - and is 28 inches long - the 40th percentile for height. He is advanced even for a 9 month old in talking, but is still behind in mobility as most kids this age are crawling. Dr. Tifft noted that you want to see advanced cognitive skills, and we still have to adjust for his age when considering his mobility. He listened to him and checked his ears, too, which is good because of me worrying about this cold he has, which should be done within 7-10 days. The doctor also noted how strong Joshua is - he did not want to let him check his ears! All the comments were very positive. Joshua can also eat what he wants to (within reason), and not eat what he doesn't. So, table foods are okay, and we don't have to worry if he doesn't drink the full bottle, so long as he gets 20 oz. or more each day. Hooray! I've always been so worried about his eating since he was born, and now this is a big relief.

Here are some pictures of Joshua enjoying time with Grandma & Grandpa Ginder. I forgot to get a picture when mom was here today - a friend of Jamie's stopped in and told her she could get out for a little bit. I said "Great! We can shop!" however, just after she left, Joshua threw up everywhere. He had gagged and thrown up on his tray at dinner, so I had taken it to wash it, only to have him spew more all over himself, the highchair, the floor, etc. Thank God Shawn walked in the door at that moment. As the two of us gagged together, we pulled the Bean out of the highchair and put him in the bathtub clothes and all, and Shawn cleaned up the high chair while I bathed Joshua. Poor little guy! Poor us! Mom came just as he was in the bath tub, so instead of going shopping we just hung out here for a little while. Hopefully next time we can do something fun instead, but she didn't want to be gone too long, which I completely understand. She also said Jamie wasn't feeling well today and didn't eat anything.

This morning we had a meeting with the Lancaster Housing Redevelopment Authority about updating our house. We'll see if everything goes through - we're close to the cap on everything (how much Shawn makes, how much our house is worth, etc.) and the process takes awhile. I applied back in December, and we still may not hear anything for another three months. While we were there, Joshua stayed with Grandma & Grandpa Jamie. After we came back, I walked across the street with them where their neighbor was having a women's Bible study. The worship was amazing, but when Joshua started getting tired, we snuck out to go home so he could rest. Afterward, they prayed for mom & Jamie, who both truly need it right now. Jamie couldn't walk yesterday or today, and they're both feeling pretty down. They see the neurologist on Friday, so hopefully he can help them.

Last night I went to worship practice, and afterward there is always a time of "Harp & Bowl" worship with people praying & interceding. It was an interesting night with more people there than normal, and Bill & I took turn leading the songs for this portion...I love how they are allowing me to grow in this ministry, and I truly love playing the piano, singing & serving the church this way. We are moving into a new type of worship where we play a melody & allow the Holy Spirit to speak through God's Word and sing prophetic songs. It is stretching, but fulfilling in declaring God's word through music. Bill & Kim (two of the worship leaders at church) were both very sweet when hearing about what's going on with Joshua, and Bill declared healing over his life while Kim took a stand of protection against all the children of our church - a couple our age just had a baby who died at six months gestation, and it seems like there is a lot that the enemy is trying to do with kids. We say, "No way!" Thankfully, we have Jesus on our side.

Reflection 46: Forgiveness is the Quickest Way to Propel Yourself Forward in Life

Don't Waste Your Time Stewing Over Things in the Past that You Can't Change. Instead, Move Forward and Focus on the Future.
Unforgiveness always holds you back. It's hard to reach out to new people when you're clinging to a grudge. It's hard to focus your energy on new ideas when you're staring at old hurts. And it's really hard to get a clear vision of the future if you're looking back at the past. The only way to move forward effectively is to leave grudges, hurts and the past behind. Letting go of old grievances makes you lighter, making it easier to run farther faster. When you forgive the people who hurt you, you drop that anger-drag and find yourself with something much more useful: a clean emotional engine, fueled with enthusiasm to move on with your life. When you let go of bitterness you can really go places.

'When you forgive, you in no way change the past - but you sure do change the future.' ~Bernard Meltzer

Get along with each other, and forgive each other. If someone does wrong to you, forgive that person because the Lord forgave you. Colossians 3:13

What a Moose!

Yes, "What a Moose!" is the first thing Dr. Adzick said when he entered the exam room this afternoon at CHOP. We had gotten up before the crack of dawn to get ready, drive there, wait forever to get a barium swallow test, feed Joshua & ourselves, wait again to get into see this specialized surgeon after seeing a Nurse Practitioner, and this is what he said (all in good fun). Unfortunately, the appointment was NOT fun, not one part of it....well, other than being able to spend the day with Shawn when normally he'd be at work. We got there early enough and signed in, where there was a room PACKED with people & kids, overflowing into the hallways. CHOP is getting a new computer system and there was a major back-up of getting kids registered. He was actually seen on time, though, but he was TERRIFIED at the machines and being held down! And, add to that fact that the appointment was scheduled for his naptime and that he couldn't eat four hours beforehand, and we had a screaming, crying, cranky and frightened baby. Even though he was hungry, he did NOT want the bottle with the barium in it, but they still got enough to tell us the results. "Everything is there and in the right place with his stomach & intestines, but there is major reflux" is what the radiologist said. Dr. Adzick said that Joshua still has a hiatal hernia. He explained that they are very hard to get to from the chest, and he was only able to put one stitch in it. Normally, these are done through the stomach. Thus, when Joshua eats, his stomach or its lining sometimes goes into his esophagus, causing major reflux, vomiting, etc. Poor Bean! I was so disappointed to hear that. He's such a happy little guy for obviously enduring such major pain (heartburn is TERRIBLE, let alone if it's actually making him vomit all the time!). His esophagus looks okay right now (no scarring at this point from all this acid) and he's gaining weight nicely - he's at 21 lbs and 28 inches! [Insert funny moment note: the nurse asked us to completely undress Joshua, even his diaper, for a weight check. I no more than take it off, and Mt. Saint Joshua erupts - he peed EVERYWHERE!!! I was embarrassed and cleaned everything, but it was a little comical, too.] Anyway, they referred us to a specialist in the Exton/King of Prussia area that deals specifically with reflux. They also gave us a prescription for infant zantac. He doesn't think that Joshua will need to have surgery to cure it, or he'd keep on seeing him. But, if these other specialists feel differently, they will let him know. He wants him to be carefully monitored, though, since this can cause major problems. I feel so bad that Joshua's been feeling bad. I was so glad I asked about his spitting up, too. We want to make sure Joshua is 100% healthy! Poor little guy! No wonder he doesn't like eating his bottle. I bawled on the way home. [Meanwhile, Shawn was driving with his four ways on and wondering why everyone was honking at us. Ha!] At least we don't think Joshua will need surgery. I'm praying that he grows out of it - please join me in praying for him and his health. He's been through enough! The devil has no place here!!!

The beginning two pictures of this post are of Joshua playing with Big Bird. For some reason, he likes to bite Big Bird's beak, which Shawn thinks is absolutely hysterical. Joshua has been biting everything and everyone! I'm not sure what age you can start teaching little guys and it sticks. We try to tell him, but I think he's too young for major discipline. But, still...OUCH, buddy! Good thing Big Bird doesn't mind, but mommy, daddy, grandma, and everyone else does!

Bean's still a little schnarky from his cold, but feeling better each day. Tonight he 'accidentally' caught/hit my hand with his happy-flapping arms when I was feeding him, and his hair caught the food that was on the spoon. (He was loving the sweet potatoes with chicken - the first success we've had with meat of any kind!) Thus, to the bathtub we went after dinner. This is the first "big boy" bath he's ever gotten. Janis gave us a very sweet gift, with which we purchased the mat for the bottom of our tub so the Bean doesn't slip & slide on the bottom. The "bath-ket-ball" toys were a gift from Nonie & Poppy, which he loved. I could barely get him to sit still long enough to wash his hair. Splish splash! He was taken a bath!

Reflection 45: The Secret of Success Lies in Realizing that Lost Opportunities & Shut Doors Represent God's Guidance

Accept the things that don't go right in your life as signposts to turn a new & better direction.
A lost opportunity, a thwarted plan, a shut door - at first glance they all look like failure. But look more closely, and you'll see something else. Lost opportunities are simply opportunities with someone else's name on them. Thwarted plans are plans that weren't right for you. And a shut door? Look carefully, and you'll probably see a sign on it that reads, "Not your address. Try another door." Don't get discouraged when things don't go according to plan, when you get to what seemed to be an open door only to find it closed on you. This is simply God's way of steering you to the right path for you. Change your plan. Look for a new door. I have confidence that you'll always find your way.

'I am satisfied that when the Almighty wants me to do or not do any particular thing he finds a way of letting me know.' ~Abraham Lincoln

The steps of the godly are directed by the Lord. He delights in every detail of their lives. Psalm 37:23

Sniffling, Sneezing, Coughing & Wheezing

Poor Joshua! Poor Daddy! Shawn picked up a cold at work, and now the Bean caught it, too. Shawn was sick all week with a sore throat, fever, congestion, etc. and now Joshua's nose is crusty, he's wheezing, he can't breathe well enough to want to eat his bottle, and he snorts & snores. Last night Joshua didn't sleep well, so I picked him up and snuggled with him in our bed. Pretty soon he fell asleep, and both of my boys were snoring away with their sad little congested heads. (Normally, neither one of them snores - just me!) Anytime I put Joshua down, his little cry is pitiful. We've been keeping an eye on his temperature, which is just low grade. I called the doctor Thursday night to ask some questions, and I'll take him in if things get worse. We're supposed to go to CHOP Monday, but I have to call them first thing to make sure it's okay to bring him in this state for the test. Please pray that he feels better! And that Shawn feels better, too! And, thank God that I haven't picked it up and pray that I don't! I feel so bad for my lovebugs! Tonight I ran the shower without the ventilation fan to get some steam in the room, and I gave Joshua a shower with the Johnson & Johnson vaporizing soap (thanks, Aunt Erica, for the gift - it came in handy tonight!). I'm hoping that will help him eat so he can sleep better tonight. Since it's sad to see a little snotty-nose Bean, I didn't take any pictures of him for this post, but here are some with him & Emma from the other day when she was here again. Joshua is just learning how to get into everything, and he dumped the "makeshift-toy bin" over to get everything out to play. (I have no idea where Shawn picked this up, but I can assure you he had it LONG before we were dating.) Emma & Joshua were so cute together! She loves books and to be held all the time - she is definitely more girly-like than Joshua, or she misses her mommy's attention now that she has a new baby to take care of. Daniel is doing better, too, praise God! In the picture below, Emma is pointing to the screen saver of Joshua's pictures and saying "baby" when he's really tiny and "Joshua" when the pictures start looking more like him now.Working for two days went well, and I am much more appreciative of Shawn for everything he does for our family. I praise Jesus that I can stay home with Joshua right now and am so thankful for a husband who's willing to work and still be involved in our lives when he comes home. I am truly blessed.

Reflection 44: With God Watching Over You, You Never Have to Be Afraid to Face Danger

When You Choose Courage Over Safety, You Will Reap Your Own Unique Reward.
Sometimes there's nothing wrong with playing it safe, considering your options, not rushing to follow the herd. Sometimes playing it safe can save you from financial ruin or physical harm. But the times you don't want to seek safety are the times when God is calling you to something good and noble, and that something requires the proverbial leap of faith. If you hold back instead of leaping, you'll miss a great adventure. God doesn't want you to play it safe in the area of moral issues. He expects all His men to take a stand for what is right, to speak out whenever and wherever they see wrong being done. Stay courageous, my husband, and God will reward you appropriately, both in this life and the next.

'God grant me the courage not to give up what I think is right, even though I think it is hopeless.' ~Admiral Chester W. Nimitz

Be strong and let your heart take courage, all you who wait for the Lord. Psalm 31:24

Swimming for the first time...

Yesterday, Emma came over in the morning so that Jen could take Daniel to the doctor's since they wanted to check his weight since he hasn't been eating well. Jen & I prayed for the little guy the night before, so we're believing that he'll want to eat now - by God's grace. Emma did great again, only Joshua wasn't feeling too great. At the end of their time together, I put on the animal video, and he fell right to sleep. He woke up in time for his therapy, but he was still a bit cranky...I think he had a belly ache, which was resolved on the way to Grandma's house. Once inside her home, we changed his diaper, put on his swimsuit, hat & sunscreen and headed out to the pool! It was soooo hot out that the pool water felt amazing! Joshua LOVED it! He would splash and giggle, and he even "swam" on his belly a little bit by kicking his legs and arms while we held him. I'll have to blow up their baby swimmy, but he did great just being held yesterday. He kept wanting to suck the water out of his hat strings (see above) so I finally put them behind his back. Such a handsome little guy!

My cousin Janis (who has a daughter almost my age) is up from Alabama visiting my mom, and since Jamie had physical therapy and all sorts of doctors appointments today, she came to spend the day here. Jen needed to do two more tests today for Daniel, so the three girls came over and we all went to the playground at the school out back. Afterward, I gave them each a snack of water, mango & veggie chips, and we played a little bit of hide 'n seek while Joshua napped. After Jen picked them up, we played more with the Bean, fed him lunch and then I made grilled cheese & soup for Janis and me before mom came back to pick her up. It was a nice day! I'm going to miss being home with the Bean tomorrow and Friday. I'm working both days for Masterpiece Marketing since the rest of the gals have off and Beth asked me to. Mom's watching Joshua tomorrow morning and Nonie's watching Joshua on Friday. I hope he's good - I'll miss him!

Joshua Swims!

9 Months Old Already!

It's my 9-month birthday, and mommy brought out the camera again. I can't seem to get away from it no matter how hard I try. At least Aunt Missy bought me this puppy to keep me company. I'm maxin' & relaxin' in a t-shirt bought for me by Grandma and the chair bought for me by Grandma & Grandpa Ginder. Maybe today we'll get to go outside!Why am I wearing a hat on such a hot day, I wonder?My puppy & I will solve the mystery together. I think it's because I'm going to be a Redskins fan just like Daddy & Grandma Ginder.Everywhere I go with mommy & daddy, people comment on my bright blue eyes. Mommy loves the above picture of me, which reallly shows how adorable they are. Meanwhile I'm trying to play with the diaper stacker hanging from my crib. Yesterday I knocked over the trash can in the playroom to see what was in it - yuck! Mommy scolded herself for allowing it being within my reach now since I'm so curious.Hey, what are you doing today? I'd love to hear from you. Please leave a comment to say hello!

I'll leave you with a smile to brighten your day! The picture below is also a link to a video. Thanks for stopping by the site on my 9 month birthday!