Showing posts with label praise. Show all posts
Showing posts with label praise. Show all posts
Dec 7, 2009
Aug 20, 2009
Blessings unexpected.
This week has been a week of unexpected happenings. Blessings and blessings have been poured out on our family this week. All I know to say is GOD IS GREAT! this week we were blessed with a wonderful day of boating and a great picnic. This same family then blessed us with a day swimming in the lake at the lake front home. Such a wonderful day of fun, sun and laughter. We were blessed with a financial gift this week as well. Which is a perfectly time gift. Our van once again died. A couple of weeks ago we had planned a special getaway...sort of a family vacation. 
Well that week our van died. Which pretty much threw a wrench into our plans. Something I am learning is about perspective. You see earlier this year I decided my word for the year would be perspective. Let me tell ya when you start seeing situations in a different way, a different perspective your attitude changes.
So our plans were completely crushed but let me tell you how God's plans changed everything. A dear friend, Micah called me up(actually chatted me up on facebook) and asked if we would like to borrow their tents. We were so blessed by that gesture that we took her up and went camping. We have never gone camping as a family and it was Sean's first time ever as well.
We had such a great time. Despite our plans being changed I have to say these plans were much better. The frogs seranaded us every evening, we ate s'mores by the fire and played Uno so many times that it has become a family favorite. We laughed and joked and so much fun. The first morning we realized that we had but one choice and that was cook over an open fire. Ever had bacon, eggs, french toast and pancakes made over an open fire? 
It's FANTASTIC! Well except when you forget what you are doing while putting in more wood and you burn your hand on the bacon grease and hot iron plate. Yes I did that and no it wasn't fun. But that breakfast was a hit! The boys loved it...Sara did too after a while...she slept in.
That weekend adventure led us to last week when we were blessed with a family boating on the lake adventure. So much fun! We have
some great new friends, Ken and Darlene. They
have blessed our family in small ways and huge ways. they have let us borrow their car and taken us boating, open their home to our family which we do not take lightly...we do have 4 diaperheads! This week we were financially blessed. Like I said earlier a very timely gift with the van having more mechanical issues, of which we still do not know what the outcome will be.
Somehow this weekend I injured my left knee again. That wonderful knee that the doctor says needs a complete replacement.
I believe I have torn the cartilege again. It's the same symptoms, pain and locking issues I had the last time. Only this time the pain is even more troublesome. I was heading to see my doc today but that was put on hold. Kristofer was up most of the night with a tooth ache. So off to the dentist we went instead. So that leaves me heading to the doctor next week.
Then the unexpected happened!!! We were giving a car! A 1995 Buick Centry, no strings attached! Just blessed with it. It needs a muffler and a tune up but it runs great! God has once again unexpectedly blessed our family! God is so great! I decided two weeks ago when things were slamming us and things were not going according to my plan that I would praise Him anyway! I would just keep singing:
"God Your so good to me, You've always been so good to me, I'll sing through eternity, God Your so good! Oh I'm gonna sing Your praise All night long and every day, I stand and worship You my whole life through!"
I have noticed that when you change your perspective to see things the way God does...you begin to see a whole lot clearer!
Well that week our van died. Which pretty much threw a wrench into our plans. Something I am learning is about perspective. You see earlier this year I decided my word for the year would be perspective. Let me tell ya when you start seeing situations in a different way, a different perspective your attitude changes.So our plans were completely crushed but let me tell you how God's plans changed everything. A dear friend, Micah called me up(actually chatted me up on facebook) and asked if we would like to borrow their tents. We were so blessed by that gesture that we took her up and went camping. We have never gone camping as a family and it was Sean's first time ever as well.
We had such a great time. Despite our plans being changed I have to say these plans were much better. The frogs seranaded us every evening, we ate s'mores by the fire and played Uno so many times that it has become a family favorite. We laughed and joked and so much fun. The first morning we realized that we had but one choice and that was cook over an open fire. Ever had bacon, eggs, french toast and pancakes made over an open fire? 
It's FANTASTIC! Well except when you forget what you are doing while putting in more wood and you burn your hand on the bacon grease and hot iron plate. Yes I did that and no it wasn't fun. But that breakfast was a hit! The boys loved it...Sara did too after a while...she slept in.That weekend adventure led us to last week when we were blessed with a family boating on the lake adventure. So much fun! We have
some great new friends, Ken and Darlene. Theyhave blessed our family in small ways and huge ways. they have let us borrow their car and taken us boating, open their home to our family which we do not take lightly...we do have 4 diaperheads! This week we were financially blessed. Like I said earlier a very timely gift with the van having more mechanical issues, of which we still do not know what the outcome will be.
Somehow this weekend I injured my left knee again. That wonderful knee that the doctor says needs a complete replacement.
I believe I have torn the cartilege again. It's the same symptoms, pain and locking issues I had the last time. Only this time the pain is even more troublesome. I was heading to see my doc today but that was put on hold. Kristofer was up most of the night with a tooth ache. So off to the dentist we went instead. So that leaves me heading to the doctor next week.Then the unexpected happened!!! We were giving a car! A 1995 Buick Centry, no strings attached! Just blessed with it. It needs a muffler and a tune up but it runs great! God has once again unexpectedly blessed our family! God is so great! I decided two weeks ago when things were slamming us and things were not going according to my plan that I would praise Him anyway! I would just keep singing:
"God Your so good to me, You've always been so good to me, I'll sing through eternity, God Your so good! Oh I'm gonna sing Your praise All night long and every day, I stand and worship You my whole life through!"
I have noticed that when you change your perspective to see things the way God does...you begin to see a whole lot clearer!
Apr 12, 2009
Dec 18, 2008
Peace Be Still...
and the storm was quiet! I have to just thank all of my readers, friends and family for praying. I shared that we were in a storm so to speak and that my husband had lost his job. Well my Jesus came into the situation and said "Peace be still" He also said through a dear friend these comforting and encouraging words-
"The Lord would say to you,
That your pillow will no longer be your head rest
That the tissues no longer to be your comfort
That tears will no longer water your dreams
That digging and seeing nothing will not be your season any longer
You have dug the ditches
And now, God sends His water rolling your way...water that walks
Water that talks
That will show up, and you will not know How He did it, but He will
The ditches are full...in Jesus name!!!!
No more will you ride upon the back of the enemy...
You will ride the great tides of God's provision
With His hand he will bring forth waters in the noon day..
you will see it, declares the Lord
Not even hidden places, Not even in the darkness
But the noon day says the Lord Your appointment has arrived and
your due date has come In Jesus Name"
Isn't that one awesome word! It really ministered to me at the height of the storm and still speaks comfort to my soul. I have to share that this storm has calmed. Yesterday Sean went for his interview for a position within the company he works for and came home and acted like he didn't want to tell me about the job. As if he didn't get it. I had to ask him, "well?????" He looked right at me and said, "I got it!" So matter of fact. When I heard those words I felt all this weight fall off my shoulders. Talk about the best Christmas present ever...other than Jesus I mean!
I will be honest I have been watching the news, I try not to at night when the kids are home but do in the morning...GMA I just love that show. So I am very aware of the economy, gee who isn't, but our area has really been hit hard with factories closing left and right for the last two years. Finding a job is hard and if you find one you have to perform at your best to keep it. It took Sean almost 8 months to find a real part time job. He was doing temp work and that alone took 3 months to find when we first moved here. So the fact that he was able to get this position and it is in the same company is fantastic. He lost his other position due to down sizing in that department. God has been faithful and good these last two years. When things like this happen it honestly brings up questions of: Are we were God wants us to be and satan is scared of the territory he is losing? OR Is God trying to get our attention to let us know that we are not in His perfect will and He wants us to move on.
Sean and I both despite those questions rising up decided to stand against doubt and say, WE ARE where God wants us and satan is just scared. He has been throwing everything he can at us this year everything possible! From illness to surgeries, to illnesses that send our kids to the hospital, to car problems that cost us major money, to Sean losing his job. But you know what the theme has been this whole time...."Faith, Trust, Standing on God's Promises, Declaring His Word over our situations, and then we see the victories...Healings from physical to spiritual, Provisions for our needs, wants and desires in ways we could of NEVER fathomed, and then once again we get attacked with storm and I have to say, despite the stress and worry, God once again stomped all over that mean of devils head.
See, something happened the other night, God spoke to my spirit and once again said, "Peace be still." When I get that in the middle of the night and it wakes you up because it sounds like someone is talking to you, you know it is God speaking. That peace washed over me and some how I just knew that if Sean didn't get the job that God had it taken care of. So thank you all for praying for us. Don't stop! I am positive we will have another storm come our way... its just how the evil little devil works...attacks those that are impacting God's kingdom because we are taking back what is ours and what is God's!
"The Lord would say to you,
That your pillow will no longer be your head rest
That the tissues no longer to be your comfort
That tears will no longer water your dreams
That digging and seeing nothing will not be your season any longer
You have dug the ditches
And now, God sends His water rolling your way...water that walks
Water that talks
That will show up, and you will not know How He did it, but He will
The ditches are full...in Jesus name!!!!
No more will you ride upon the back of the enemy...
You will ride the great tides of God's provision
With His hand he will bring forth waters in the noon day..
you will see it, declares the Lord
Not even hidden places, Not even in the darkness
But the noon day says the Lord Your appointment has arrived and
your due date has come In Jesus Name"
Isn't that one awesome word! It really ministered to me at the height of the storm and still speaks comfort to my soul. I have to share that this storm has calmed. Yesterday Sean went for his interview for a position within the company he works for and came home and acted like he didn't want to tell me about the job. As if he didn't get it. I had to ask him, "well?????" He looked right at me and said, "I got it!" So matter of fact. When I heard those words I felt all this weight fall off my shoulders. Talk about the best Christmas present ever...other than Jesus I mean!
I will be honest I have been watching the news, I try not to at night when the kids are home but do in the morning...GMA I just love that show. So I am very aware of the economy, gee who isn't, but our area has really been hit hard with factories closing left and right for the last two years. Finding a job is hard and if you find one you have to perform at your best to keep it. It took Sean almost 8 months to find a real part time job. He was doing temp work and that alone took 3 months to find when we first moved here. So the fact that he was able to get this position and it is in the same company is fantastic. He lost his other position due to down sizing in that department. God has been faithful and good these last two years. When things like this happen it honestly brings up questions of: Are we were God wants us to be and satan is scared of the territory he is losing? OR Is God trying to get our attention to let us know that we are not in His perfect will and He wants us to move on.
Sean and I both despite those questions rising up decided to stand against doubt and say, WE ARE where God wants us and satan is just scared. He has been throwing everything he can at us this year everything possible! From illness to surgeries, to illnesses that send our kids to the hospital, to car problems that cost us major money, to Sean losing his job. But you know what the theme has been this whole time...."Faith, Trust, Standing on God's Promises, Declaring His Word over our situations, and then we see the victories...Healings from physical to spiritual, Provisions for our needs, wants and desires in ways we could of NEVER fathomed, and then once again we get attacked with storm and I have to say, despite the stress and worry, God once again stomped all over that mean of devils head.
See, something happened the other night, God spoke to my spirit and once again said, "Peace be still." When I get that in the middle of the night and it wakes you up because it sounds like someone is talking to you, you know it is God speaking. That peace washed over me and some how I just knew that if Sean didn't get the job that God had it taken care of. So thank you all for praying for us. Don't stop! I am positive we will have another storm come our way... its just how the evil little devil works...attacks those that are impacting God's kingdom because we are taking back what is ours and what is God's!
Nov 4, 2008
Teacher Conferences
Yesterday afternoon was the dreaded teacher conferences. No it wasn't really dreaded. Our kids are great kids and do well in school and have never been in trouble. So for that am SO THANKFUL! I met with Jaron's teacher first. She is an interesting person. I will lave it at that! Although I know she is a good teacher and Jaron is enjoying the class she is different. It was good to know that Jaron is doing well. His teacher stressed what a positive influence he is on his peers and how well behaved he is in class. That makes a Momma's heart soar with pride!
Then it was off to talk with Kristofer's teacher and special ed teacher. Honestly I talk with them so much that last night was a recap basically. But I did learn some things that really encouraged me! The biggest question I had was, "how much work is Kris doing in the classroom compared to the resource room?" YAY! Kris is doing 98% of his work in the classroom! This is HUGE! It means that once or twice a week other than tests, he may take a worksheet to finish with the special ed teacher. Otherwise when he spends time with her he is actually doing other things to increase his reading skills. Which he is very low on but they are seeing improvements and that is very encouraging too!
Oh Something I wanted to let my readers know...I have a new blog. It's called Broken Potterie. When I first started this blog my intentions were to use it to update our extended family on the goings on of our family. This way family members from Florida to NY to Colorado could keep up to date and feel a part of our lives from afar. Since starting it I have realized I have a desire to write more about spiritual things, devotions that truly touch my heart, a journal so to speak. An honest open discussion of the struggles and valleys an the mountain top experiences. So I have started a new blog. I hope to write daily there but I can't promise that. I have been writing on another site under the same title but decided to bring it here close the other site and let my faithful readers know about it. On the other site I kept it private but that doesn't encourage anyone and I want Broken Potterie to do just that, encourage others to know;
1. You are not alone in your struggles!
2. Even Pastors and Pastor's wives struggle!
3. There is hope when you trust in Jesus!
4. We are all human and have flaws!
There is a link to Broken Potterie on the right under the blogs I follow. Come by check it out and let me know what you think!
Oct 30, 2008
AMAZING!
We received the boys report cards last week and I have had little time to just sit and share with our family how well they did. Michele over that An Adoptive Family's Life blog reminded me that I hadn't shared with the family and since i know most if not all the family comes to read what is going on with the kids thought I better let ya'll know. We are so proud of both boys!
Jaron has a very tough teacher this year! Put it this way, if Jaron does not put the date on his papers he gets 5-10 points taken off so even if he had a 100% if he forgets that date he ends up with a 90-95%. Which really stinks cause how many 8 year olds remember to put a date on things? I mean I am good to remember to put a date on letters and cards I send out. Anyway the boy did fantastic for his first grading period! He got all B's and A's! YAY JARON! I know he could have had all A's had he just applied himself a little more. But as we stress with all the kids all we really want is for them to do their absolute very best!
In fact that is the theme in children's church this year. Doing everything in excellence to give God the glory. I stress every week as long the kids are doing their absolute best in school academically and behaviorally then they are giving God the glory through their actions. I explain to them how their actions and behavior can be a witness of God's love and work in their lives to their classmates and to their teacher. They all are doing great!
As you know if you have been reading this blog for any time, Kristofer had a very hard time the first 7 weeks of this grading period. But we have a fantastic group of people from the OT assistant, his teacher Mrs Moore down to the lunch aides. They really stepped up to help him move forward and push through that difficult transition. He is doing so much better! Although I am sitting her listening to him and Eli playing this morning. Just when I though all the kids would be back in school today...he woke up with pink eye in both eyes and Eli has it in one eye as well. I can't wait for my kids to all be well at the same time!
Anyway, we were sure how Kris was doing academically. WE see his papers but I don't keep every page that is sent home. We were pleasantly surprise to see his grades! At our school the grading system lists the percentages but until they are in 3rd grade they actually receive S, N, & U. I was expecting more "N" but he had all "S" and one "N" in PE. His actually percentages were As and Bs. His percentages were even higher than Jaron's. Which surprised Jaron. SO we are very happy with how he is doing! His behavior in class has gotten a lot better to.
We know that for Kristofer academics present struggles for him and he needs the extra one on one instruction to help him push through to focus and get his work done. Jaron told us that he is super proud of Kristofer but thought the special ed teacher was giving him the answers. We had to explain that the special ed teacher does what I do, and works one on one and helps him focus not give him the answers. That made Jaron feel better and he shared how he was worried Kristofer wouldn't be smart.
Jaron is such a great big brother. He worries about Kristofer and loves playing with him. He gets so frustrated when Kristofer goes into his own world. But he understand that when they get home from school Kristofer needs time to retreat from "having" to participate and be attentive to things going on in the room. It's just his way of destressing. We all need that time when we "escape" from the pressures of the day for me writing and playing video games gives me that escape.
Oct 20, 2008
Oct 13, 2008
Colors
As promised to my dear friend Michele over at An Adoptive Family's Life. I am posting some colors from our back yard and some other pictures of the kids playing with our not so little puppy. Izzy will be 6 mo old on Oct 18th (Sat), she was born on April 18th (Kristofer's birthday). I plan to take more pictures of the colors as more appear. Many have come out but there are still many trees that are just starting to change. Enjoy!
Oh just a little praise note....Sara's CT scan came back negative! NO KIDNEY STONES! Apparently either she passed it or God healed her. We believe God healed her!
Sep 28, 2008
Sep 15, 2008
Yahoo!
All I can say is yahoo! Today was a blessed day! You know when you ask God to deliver He does. Not always the way you expect but He does! Oh there's just so much I want to share but I am not sure where to start or what to to say and not say. So I guess I will start with a blessing of yesterday. Sat. morning I got to sleep in. Thank you to my wonderful kids! Jaron got up and said, "Mommy sleep in today I will take Izzy (our dog) out and I will get everyone breakfast...you just rest." He knew I wasn't feeling well. Boy I love that kid! So I slept till 10 am which is the latest I have slept in a long time! Thank you Jaron! (Sean was working for those that don't know.) Then my darling husband cam home and said we got something in the mail. I was shocked when he handed me a check for $77. It was a settlement with a company we had business with and honestly we never expected it. Now for some $77 isn't much in most cases it won't even fill up you gas tank...specially now that Ike has blown through...which is a whole other part of today's adventures. Anyway, Sat. morning I was figuring out some bills and realized I had two more bills that have to be paid by Tuesday. Well figuring out the budget for the week I figured we would be $75 short. God not only met my need He exceeded it. Thank you Lord! You see in order for me to be able to go to The Unstoppable Conference we have had to pinch every penny and squeezed every piggy bank but I went and we are not at all sorry that we had to sacrifice for me to go.
God knew what I needed and boy has He continued that healing, refreshing and He is still working on me even a week later. I can not tell you the burdens, the chains the darkness that has lifted from me. Yes I still am batting with depression but God is really doing something remarkable with me. I just can't explain it.Ok on with today...I went expecting God to meet me at the church. When you go expecting you better be prepared to receive! He came in like a holy fire! I am not sure if anyone else felt His presence during worship but I sure did! HMMMMM..... It was SO GOOD! I never get to stay in the whole service. I always take the kids out after worship for children's church. This week was no different. Except...one of my volunteers who helps when I am unable to be there came back with me. She has the desire to teach the kids hand motions to our worship songs, to get them more involved and excited about worship instead of just sitting there the whole time. I think it is fabulous! So she came back with me and I taught the lesson about Joshua and Jericho! HMMM it was so good! I explained to the kids that Joshua had a promise from God that if he followed God's instructions he would take the city of Jericho. So we marched, we shouted and then I had them sit down and we talked about how the Holy Spirit can use them to be an agent for Him. That the Holy Spirit can guide them if they just take time to listen to His voice!
OOhh it was good and the kids listened! We even had some new kiddos show up and a few kiddos that haven't been in church in a while. It was a full room today! YEA! Then tonight, we had our 
first bells practice. The kids are learning to play bells to music and if we can master this one song then we plan to put on a concert at Christmas time and perform 3-4 songs. We tried to do this back in April. They were not into it and honestly I was so depressed I didn't want to do it and had no patience to even try. SO I said I will wait till it is truly God's timing. Well let me tell you God spoke so clear to my heart at Unstoppable that it was time and that I have to get these kids excited about ministry or I am going to loose them when they get to junior high school age. It was very clear to me. I took the week to pray about it making sure this was the right time. YES! YES! YES! Tonight was fantastic! I had 10 kids come out and 3 that planned to be there but were not able to come tonight. They were fantastic! They listened, hit every cue and I am just amazed! They are so excited about it! We even came up with a great name ~ Christian Rockers! They chose the names and then voted. They came up with the outfit ideas for our performances too...jeans and tie-died
first bells practice. The kids are learning to play bells to music and if we can master this one song then we plan to put on a concert at Christmas time and perform 3-4 songs. We tried to do this back in April. They were not into it and honestly I was so depressed I didn't want to do it and had no patience to even try. SO I said I will wait till it is truly God's timing. Well let me tell you God spoke so clear to my heart at Unstoppable that it was time and that I have to get these kids excited about ministry or I am going to loose them when they get to junior high school age. It was very clear to me. I took the week to pray about it making sure this was the right time. YES! YES! YES! Tonight was fantastic! I had 10 kids come out and 3 that planned to be there but were not able to come tonight. They were fantastic! They listened, hit every cue and I am just amazed! They are so excited about it! We even came up with a great name ~ Christian Rockers! They chose the names and then voted. They came up with the outfit ideas for our performances too...jeans and tie-died t-shirts with the name on the back and a cross on the front. Now I have to get the shirts and get them made. They were so good tonight. We were able to practice the song straight through once without music and then 3 times with the music. I am just blown away with how things went today! THANK YOU ~ JESUS ~ YOU CAME IN AND TOOK OVER AND JUST BLEW MY MIND WITH HOW VERY THING HAPPENED THIS WHOLE DAY! You know when things move this smoothly that it has to be God moving amongst the kids! It was just awesome!
Now about IKE that devil of a storm! By the time it came up here it was a tropical storm and boy did we get the storm! We have tree limbs down everywhere. Our electric was flickering the whole church service. In fact during Sunday school it went off for a few minutes and then back on. But when I went into town this afternoon to get our new babies (kittens) some food, there was a whole corn crop that looked like a tornado went through it and just flattened a large area of the crop. I am glad we didn't have an official tornado but boy I feel for that farmer. They rely on there crops and his was surely damaged by the storm. W watched during Sunday school as tree limbs were flying and garbage was going from one yard to another. In fact our front yard looked like we had a party in it. A beer party at that. Our ditch was littered with beer cans every where. Funny thing is we collected cans at church for recycling to raise funds for the youth/children's dept. You better believe we are going to turn those in and get the blessings from those cans. So our day was full of adventure from the storms blowing in and the Holy Spirit moving in like fire! I sure am glad I know the God that can say, "Peace be still" and the storm stops! How about you?Sep 9, 2008
How Unstoppable has Changed me
Ok I have written a little bit here and there about my adventures over the last few days while at the conference but I have not written fully about how it has impacted my life. I have been trying to digest everything and I still am. You know that God is at work when you need to take days to digest everything you have heard, learned, and have been impacted by. I feel as if I am still eating every time I look at my notes, read a blog that either Deanna or Tara has written about the events.
So on Thursday when I arrived at the hotel the women who greeted me were fantastic! One of them and unfortunately I can't for the life of me remember her name actually helped me to my room. It isn't easy trying to carry a big bag, a suitcase and then this wonderful goodie bag (which I will share about in a minute) and try to walk using a cane. She was so sweet, I felt like an honored guest with her helping me. We get to my room and it was beautiful! I wish I had brought my camera...so any pictures I post on here will be from either Tara's or Deanna's blog. Anyway, we all were given this wonderful little bag of goodies. Inside there was yummy chocolate, a book "Musings of a Maraschino Cherry: Reflections on the Role of a Minister's Wife" by Peggy Musgrove, and other little things such as a candle and book mark. But the best gift was a framed note, it said "Melissa, Don't Worry! I have it under control! Love God" When I pulled that out of the bag I immediately had tears in my eyes! It was exactly what I needed to read! How many times do you get a personal note like that, that hits home in a way you don't expect?! I mean I read the Bible and I am always ministered to but that framed note was just EXACTLY what I needed to read. I now have it on my dresser so it's the first thing I see in the morning before I get ready for the day! It reminds me that God does have things under control and I can trust Him for the day! (Thank you PD or whoever came up with that idea!)
So Thursday night I walk into the the main room where we were going to have the conference and dinner. I was looking around talking to a few people when out of the corner of my eye I spot the one person I HAD to go see. Pastor Deanna was surrounded by women. I honestly didn't want to interrupt her, specially when I noticed that Tara was standing there as well. I knew how close they were just from my readings.
But here she was and when she saw me she actually squealed! Which surprised me honestly and she gave me this hug...a hug that welcomed me, like we had known each other forever! Honestly I have never had a hug like that from anyone I was meeting for the first time! PD - just thinking about it makes tears well up. Honestly, I have admired Deanna for her strength and courage despite all that she personally has been going through! She is one tough cookie even if her center may be soft (smile). That hug was so filled with love it was overwhelming to be honest. She immediately had me sit with her for dinner. What an honor! Here I am, a little ole nobody sitting at the table with three powerful speakers - Tara Sloan, Sandy Phanazee and Deanna. What an honor. Women I have admired from afar. Women I want to be like when I grow up! I have heard Sandy speak at other events and have always been ministered to. I have been ministered to through Tara and Deanna's blog for almost a year now. I felt like I was sitting with royalty, honestly I did. It was great!
We had a wonderful meal before Pastor Deanna spoke on "A Series of Unfortunate Events". I have to say when she began sharing I thought to myself, "she is reading my mail or maybe my blog!" This year has been "A Series of Unfortunate Events" for me. Every time I think I am getting ahead something else smacks me down. It was based on Ezekiel. What God spoke to me is that it really has nothing to do what is happening to me or around me, what is important is what is happening in me, how are the wrecks changing me...for the better? or for the worse? God allows things to happen for a reason, and even if I don't get it as long as I am trusting Him through it that is what is important. Sometimes you just have to do it "Anyway" like the song by Tina McBride.
There was great ministry that night. Then even better fellowship after service. I went back to my room with Carrie and we stayed up talking. It was late and the phone rings. Scared me and Carrie or at least it did me. I sorta jumped, I definitely wasn't expecting it to ring. On the end of the line was Deanna. Which really shocked me to be honest ... she was letting us know we had another roomie coming up...Sheryl. What a blessing to have them both with me to share the events with!
I have to say rooming with these two women was great! I originally was going to be staying with Michele. With everything she was going through last week, it was so much better for her and I that Deanna worked it out for me to stay at the hotel...THANK YOU PD! You know, God always has a plan and I know had I not been at the hotel I would not have connected with Carrie, Jessica, Sheryl, Jessica S., Tara or Deanna.
I have to say Jenn Lee took worship to a higher level every time she and the group lead us. It was fantastic to be able to worship without worrying about where or what my kids were doing. A luxury I do not get. I was able to let go and worship and it was fantastic!
Friday was packed with some fantastic workshops. Then that night Tara spoke about "the Breaking Point" and like I said in a previous post she hit the nail on the head! God reached in deep and touched me in a great way. I felt a release to just be real. I even gave a testimony that night.
So here is what I shared and this is how I feel even today. Pastoring Partners a ministry started by Deanna Shrodes has been a life line to me. When Sean and I moved here we had never been in a Senior Pastorate. We had been on staff at Venice Assembly Of God under Pastor Gary and Rhonda Gray. Two wonderful people and we learned so much. We will always cherish that time and our friendship with them. But when we came here I felt alone. I felt like NO one else had or was going through what I was going through. Then Michele through me this life line and I felt like I finally had a place to go to find support, understanding and love without feeling condemned. The women on there get it. They too struggle and are real people dealing with real issues. Then I learned about Unstoppable. Everything came against me going. Even up to the week before I was to leave. And yet I was determined that nothing was going to stop me from going, I became "unstoppable". I am so glad that I went.
The vision that Deanna has for this ministry is even larger than what she may have dreamed. I am sure of it! This conference is so different from anything I have ever gone to. This conference and this ministry is so needed for Pastor's wives and Women in ministry. We women have a tendency to isolate ourselves and this ministry gives us a chance to be real again. I have always been a person who is real. I don't sugar coat anything. But I haven't felt free to share what I have been going through, not even on here. This weekend gave me back my love, excitement and desire for ministry. It gave me what has been missing for a quite sometime. I have been going through the motions of ministry. It happens more than people realize! But I returned home with the desire to do what God has called me to do. I know Sean is thankful for what took place in my life.
What is funny and I honestly can't remember if it was Deanna, Tara, Jenn Lee or Sandy that said it but one of them stated, be aware that you will hit a wall when you get home, that satan will use your husband or your kids to steal what God has done in you. I am so glad that was said because I went home aware and on guard for it. And you know what...that is exactly what happened. But I was prepared for it so I saw it for what it was and laughed to myself about the situation.
Friday night sitting and eating dinner, sharing and laughing together was so what I needed. Like I said I have never laughed so hard about some of the funniest ministry stories I have heard! Laughter is great medicine! But even so is good fellowship with people that get it, that understand the struggles we women go through in the ministry, just the time to eat together, laugh and cry together...is huge! It really was a highlight of the conference! I mean other than the messages. I had so much fun! Spending time with Carrie and Jessica afterwards was even better! We went back to Jessica's room and laughed so hard my sides hurt. We got this crazy call, the front desk saying they had complaints and that we needed to quiet down. Then a knock at the door. From our side of the door it was hilarious, here was Jessica peeking through the peek hole that was covered up and Carrie standing behind her with the iron in her hand ready to smash it against who ever was on the other side of the door. I couldn't help but laugh, it was so funny to watch! Then when they do open the door there stood Sheryl and Jessica (the other one) and they were laughing at us...they played a terrible trick on us. Jessica S and I have decided that next year we are going pay them back, some how...
I have no idea what Deanna may be thinking about for next year but what ever it might be...I am going to be there! Whatever it takes I am going to be there! I am sure I will share more but for now I hope you have gotten a sense of what took place and how it ministered to me!
So on Thursday when I arrived at the hotel the women who greeted me were fantastic! One of them and unfortunately I can't for the life of me remember her name actually helped me to my room. It isn't easy trying to carry a big bag, a suitcase and then this wonderful goodie bag (which I will share about in a minute) and try to walk using a cane. She was so sweet, I felt like an honored guest with her helping me. We get to my room and it was beautiful! I wish I had brought my camera...so any pictures I post on here will be from either Tara's or Deanna's blog. Anyway, we all were given this wonderful little bag of goodies. Inside there was yummy chocolate, a book "Musings of a Maraschino Cherry: Reflections on the Role of a Minister's Wife" by Peggy Musgrove, and other little things such as a candle and book mark. But the best gift was a framed note, it said "Melissa, Don't Worry! I have it under control! Love God" When I pulled that out of the bag I immediately had tears in my eyes! It was exactly what I needed to read! How many times do you get a personal note like that, that hits home in a way you don't expect?! I mean I read the Bible and I am always ministered to but that framed note was just EXACTLY what I needed to read. I now have it on my dresser so it's the first thing I see in the morning before I get ready for the day! It reminds me that God does have things under control and I can trust Him for the day! (Thank you PD or whoever came up with that idea!)
So Thursday night I walk into the the main room where we were going to have the conference and dinner. I was looking around talking to a few people when out of the corner of my eye I spot the one person I HAD to go see. Pastor Deanna was surrounded by women. I honestly didn't want to interrupt her, specially when I noticed that Tara was standing there as well. I knew how close they were just from my readings.
But here she was and when she saw me she actually squealed! Which surprised me honestly and she gave me this hug...a hug that welcomed me, like we had known each other forever! Honestly I have never had a hug like that from anyone I was meeting for the first time! PD - just thinking about it makes tears well up. Honestly, I have admired Deanna for her strength and courage despite all that she personally has been going through! She is one tough cookie even if her center may be soft (smile). That hug was so filled with love it was overwhelming to be honest. She immediately had me sit with her for dinner. What an honor! Here I am, a little ole nobody sitting at the table with three powerful speakers - Tara Sloan, Sandy Phanazee and Deanna. What an honor. Women I have admired from afar. Women I want to be like when I grow up! I have heard Sandy speak at other events and have always been ministered to. I have been ministered to through Tara and Deanna's blog for almost a year now. I felt like I was sitting with royalty, honestly I did. It was great!
We had a wonderful meal before Pastor Deanna spoke on "A Series of Unfortunate Events". I have to say when she began sharing I thought to myself, "she is reading my mail or maybe my blog!" This year has been "A Series of Unfortunate Events" for me. Every time I think I am getting ahead something else smacks me down. It was based on Ezekiel. What God spoke to me is that it really has nothing to do what is happening to me or around me, what is important is what is happening in me, how are the wrecks changing me...for the better? or for the worse? God allows things to happen for a reason, and even if I don't get it as long as I am trusting Him through it that is what is important. Sometimes you just have to do it "Anyway" like the song by Tina McBride.
There was great ministry that night. Then even better fellowship after service. I went back to my room with Carrie and we stayed up talking. It was late and the phone rings. Scared me and Carrie or at least it did me. I sorta jumped, I definitely wasn't expecting it to ring. On the end of the line was Deanna. Which really shocked me to be honest ... she was letting us know we had another roomie coming up...Sheryl. What a blessing to have them both with me to share the events with!
I have to say rooming with these two women was great! I originally was going to be staying with Michele. With everything she was going through last week, it was so much better for her and I that Deanna worked it out for me to stay at the hotel...THANK YOU PD! You know, God always has a plan and I know had I not been at the hotel I would not have connected with Carrie, Jessica, Sheryl, Jessica S., Tara or Deanna.
I have to say Jenn Lee took worship to a higher level every time she and the group lead us. It was fantastic to be able to worship without worrying about where or what my kids were doing. A luxury I do not get. I was able to let go and worship and it was fantastic!
Friday was packed with some fantastic workshops. Then that night Tara spoke about "the Breaking Point" and like I said in a previous post she hit the nail on the head! God reached in deep and touched me in a great way. I felt a release to just be real. I even gave a testimony that night.
So here is what I shared and this is how I feel even today. Pastoring Partners a ministry started by Deanna Shrodes has been a life line to me. When Sean and I moved here we had never been in a Senior Pastorate. We had been on staff at Venice Assembly Of God under Pastor Gary and Rhonda Gray. Two wonderful people and we learned so much. We will always cherish that time and our friendship with them. But when we came here I felt alone. I felt like NO one else had or was going through what I was going through. Then Michele through me this life line and I felt like I finally had a place to go to find support, understanding and love without feeling condemned. The women on there get it. They too struggle and are real people dealing with real issues. Then I learned about Unstoppable. Everything came against me going. Even up to the week before I was to leave. And yet I was determined that nothing was going to stop me from going, I became "unstoppable". I am so glad that I went.
The vision that Deanna has for this ministry is even larger than what she may have dreamed. I am sure of it! This conference is so different from anything I have ever gone to. This conference and this ministry is so needed for Pastor's wives and Women in ministry. We women have a tendency to isolate ourselves and this ministry gives us a chance to be real again. I have always been a person who is real. I don't sugar coat anything. But I haven't felt free to share what I have been going through, not even on here. This weekend gave me back my love, excitement and desire for ministry. It gave me what has been missing for a quite sometime. I have been going through the motions of ministry. It happens more than people realize! But I returned home with the desire to do what God has called me to do. I know Sean is thankful for what took place in my life.
What is funny and I honestly can't remember if it was Deanna, Tara, Jenn Lee or Sandy that said it but one of them stated, be aware that you will hit a wall when you get home, that satan will use your husband or your kids to steal what God has done in you. I am so glad that was said because I went home aware and on guard for it. And you know what...that is exactly what happened. But I was prepared for it so I saw it for what it was and laughed to myself about the situation.
Friday night sitting and eating dinner, sharing and laughing together was so what I needed. Like I said I have never laughed so hard about some of the funniest ministry stories I have heard! Laughter is great medicine! But even so is good fellowship with people that get it, that understand the struggles we women go through in the ministry, just the time to eat together, laugh and cry together...is huge! It really was a highlight of the conference! I mean other than the messages. I had so much fun! Spending time with Carrie and Jessica afterwards was even better! We went back to Jessica's room and laughed so hard my sides hurt. We got this crazy call, the front desk saying they had complaints and that we needed to quiet down. Then a knock at the door. From our side of the door it was hilarious, here was Jessica peeking through the peek hole that was covered up and Carrie standing behind her with the iron in her hand ready to smash it against who ever was on the other side of the door. I couldn't help but laugh, it was so funny to watch! Then when they do open the door there stood Sheryl and Jessica (the other one) and they were laughing at us...they played a terrible trick on us. Jessica S and I have decided that next year we are going pay them back, some how...
I have no idea what Deanna may be thinking about for next year but what ever it might be...I am going to be there! Whatever it takes I am going to be there! I am sure I will share more but for now I hope you have gotten a sense of what took place and how it ministered to me!
Aug 29, 2008
What was Lost...
NOW IS FOUND!
YAY!
I can't tell you how relieved we are!
YAY!
I can't tell you how relieved we are!
Enough said!
Have no idea what this means? Read the last two posts!
Jun 11, 2008
When giving your best is expected.
So I promised in my last post to explain the anger about PT. So let me explain. When you go to a professional in any line of business specially in the medical field you expect to get the best treatment possible. So when in Oct of last year I was referred to a certain physical therapy center associated with my orthopedic surgeon I was under the assumption that I was getting the best care. Then when after my knee surgery on my right knee I was sent home with home health care and Physical therapy at home I thought the same.
Now at the time I really thought I was getting the best treatment. UNTIL after this surgery. Due to insurance I was limited to going to the physical therapy center through the hospital. I AM SO GLAD INSURANCE LIMITED ME! And here's why.
On Thursday the day after my surgery I was scheduled for PT. I had no ambition to go but I went. I knew the first visit would only be evaluation anyway...or so I thought. So in that hour I found out that my previous physical therapists had not been as thorough as they could have been nor had they been as attentive as they should have been. How did I find this out...by listening to the Director of Physical Therapy who evaluated my knee and what needs to be done to get it back to a good healthy knee.
So the first things noticed were: my crutches were to short for my height, the remedy: new crutches....made a "HUGE" difference in my walking and on my back strain. Also noticed 3 of 5 exercises I have been doing since Oct have not been done mechanically correct. Jay, my PT, stated, "You can do a 100 reps of a exercise and if not done correctly is a waste of time, do that same exercise 10 times and do it mechanically correctly and you will see a HUGE difference!" Let me express that this statement is so true! I had no idea I was not doing the exercises correctly, I had never been corrected!
This is not to say the PT's I have had are terrible it just says they were not attentive to me their client. They did not pay attention to the details, they did not give 100% to their job of helping me strengthen vital muscles to walk. They definitely did not do their job in excellence!
So what does this mean to me....well it means there is a reason why my right knee, which had surgery in Jan. is not as strong as it should be 5 months later. It means I am actually behind in healing and strength. All due to poor technique when doing the exercises that were suppose to strengthen vital muscles! The fact that the PT's never noticed that my crutches were too small is a huge deal also. I am now standing up and not bent over when walking with the crutches. Why is that a big deal...let me explain it this way....it's like using a screw driver instead of using a hammer to put a nail in the wall. A hammer is what you need to get the job done efficiently. Well for my legs and knees to function properly I need to be able to stand up correctly.
One consequence of not having the correct tools (right size crutches) is that in my left knee which I just had surgery on, has an acute situation with extension of that leg. Let me explain, when you straighten your leg the back of your knee is suppose to be against the surface under it. Mine is not and can not do this. I have a 35-40 degree bend and will not extend fully. I have a bent knee at all times which is partly due to the cartilage problems I had but from what I was told today is largely due to not having the correct tools to walk with the last 10 months. I have a right to be upset. I am going through some intense therapy now.
The stretching of those knee muscles to get that extension is EXTREMELY painful! The PT places a hard plastic tube under my ankle and I am to relax my leg so the knee basically dangles with gravity pulling it down. Getting that slow burning stretch. Then my knee is pushed downwards, forcing my leg to extend. Another stretching exercise....in that same position I have 2 lbs placed on either side of the knee and another I have all 4 lbs placed on top of my knee. Now this may not sound painful or hard to do but let me tell you when you have the problem with extension that I have it HURTS! Thank goodness for pain medication!
So that is why I was angered. I am also blessed! Blessed with a new PT that is very attentive to my needs, listens to my complaints, struggles or questions. I am so thankful that God knew I needed a different PT and knew what I needed to get my knees healthy again! Thank you Jesus for taking care of all the details!
Now at the time I really thought I was getting the best treatment. UNTIL after this surgery. Due to insurance I was limited to going to the physical therapy center through the hospital. I AM SO GLAD INSURANCE LIMITED ME! And here's why.
On Thursday the day after my surgery I was scheduled for PT. I had no ambition to go but I went. I knew the first visit would only be evaluation anyway...or so I thought. So in that hour I found out that my previous physical therapists had not been as thorough as they could have been nor had they been as attentive as they should have been. How did I find this out...by listening to the Director of Physical Therapy who evaluated my knee and what needs to be done to get it back to a good healthy knee.
So the first things noticed were: my crutches were to short for my height, the remedy: new crutches....made a "HUGE" difference in my walking and on my back strain. Also noticed 3 of 5 exercises I have been doing since Oct have not been done mechanically correct. Jay, my PT, stated, "You can do a 100 reps of a exercise and if not done correctly is a waste of time, do that same exercise 10 times and do it mechanically correctly and you will see a HUGE difference!" Let me express that this statement is so true! I had no idea I was not doing the exercises correctly, I had never been corrected!
This is not to say the PT's I have had are terrible it just says they were not attentive to me their client. They did not pay attention to the details, they did not give 100% to their job of helping me strengthen vital muscles to walk. They definitely did not do their job in excellence!
So what does this mean to me....well it means there is a reason why my right knee, which had surgery in Jan. is not as strong as it should be 5 months later. It means I am actually behind in healing and strength. All due to poor technique when doing the exercises that were suppose to strengthen vital muscles! The fact that the PT's never noticed that my crutches were too small is a huge deal also. I am now standing up and not bent over when walking with the crutches. Why is that a big deal...let me explain it this way....it's like using a screw driver instead of using a hammer to put a nail in the wall. A hammer is what you need to get the job done efficiently. Well for my legs and knees to function properly I need to be able to stand up correctly.
One consequence of not having the correct tools (right size crutches) is that in my left knee which I just had surgery on, has an acute situation with extension of that leg. Let me explain, when you straighten your leg the back of your knee is suppose to be against the surface under it. Mine is not and can not do this. I have a 35-40 degree bend and will not extend fully. I have a bent knee at all times which is partly due to the cartilage problems I had but from what I was told today is largely due to not having the correct tools to walk with the last 10 months. I have a right to be upset. I am going through some intense therapy now.
The stretching of those knee muscles to get that extension is EXTREMELY painful! The PT places a hard plastic tube under my ankle and I am to relax my leg so the knee basically dangles with gravity pulling it down. Getting that slow burning stretch. Then my knee is pushed downwards, forcing my leg to extend. Another stretching exercise....in that same position I have 2 lbs placed on either side of the knee and another I have all 4 lbs placed on top of my knee. Now this may not sound painful or hard to do but let me tell you when you have the problem with extension that I have it HURTS! Thank goodness for pain medication!
So that is why I was angered. I am also blessed! Blessed with a new PT that is very attentive to my needs, listens to my complaints, struggles or questions. I am so thankful that God knew I needed a different PT and knew what I needed to get my knees healthy again! Thank you Jesus for taking care of all the details!
Jun 7, 2008
God is so good!
This week has been a long week for our house. Actually the last two weeks have been filled with activity. SO lets catch you up on the Kelly activities....in the last two weeks:
* Kris was baptized...YAY!
* Jaron was healed of hypothyroidism (with evidence)
* I was diagnosed as diabetic - controlling with diet and
exercise for 4 mo. then will return to see the doc and
do more tests and possibly start meds.
* Friday. May 30th, went to the boys' school musical...very cute!
Which brings me to Wed. and my wonderful knee surgery on my "Florida knee". I have been calling it that so that family and friends in Florida understand I finally got it fixed up. YAY! Plus the fact that I just had surgery in Jan on my left knee.
I had a scope done as seen above and the orthopedic surgeon basically fixed the two tears in the cartilage. One he snipped out the torn pieces and the debree left behind. The other he sewed the pieces back together and hopefully it will heal on its own. He also did some poking at the cartilage taking small pieces out hoping to create enough scar tissue to add cushion where the cartilage has been worn down to the bone.
I also found out I have Chondromalacia patellae which means "softening of the articular cartilage of the knee-cap." Basically the underneath of my knee cap was a mess. The doctor describe it as blistering bone and he basically shaved and smoothed it out. As well as did some smoothing (shaving) of the femur bone where the knee cap glides over it. We are hopeful that will take care of everything.
I go for my 2 week post-op visit and we will see from there. The doc told Sean I will need cortisone shots on a regular basis. I am suppose to get the pictures of the inside of my knee from the surgery. If I do I will post them here as an educational tool and so show off my knee. So far this surgery although has been painful has been a lot easier because I am able to bear weight on it as tolerated. Which I can only tolerate a little bit at a time right now. Everyday is a little better than the last. As long as I ice after doing my exercises and after doing any type of standing and walking I do well at controlling the pain that and pain medicine.
Here you can see I have three incisions. Two are larger than the other. Don't let those small incisions trick you...small does not mean no pain! In fact in my case I was in severe pain and still have bouts with severe pain when not taking the pain meds regularly. I came home with an ace bandage from the middle of my thigh to my toes and on the other leg I had a surgical stocking. The kids thought it was hilarious. In fact Sara, our 4 yr old, wanted to know why I was wearing tights, and said, "you look funny mommy!" Which through tears I said thanks. The pain at that point was so bad I cried for 2 hrs even with the strong pain meds. The picture above was taken Thursday night. I had to change the bandages. Looks good! Today I have more bruising and no more ace bandage to wear except at night when sleeping. Although wearing it through the day does make it feel better. Today I plan to spend sometime outside sitting inthe sun. As you can tell I have lost my "Florida" tan. I miss Florida....you can be tan all year long all free from the sun of course!
God was good to me during the surgery. I had no nausea like I have in the previous surgeries. I also asked the Lord to show the doc that I did not need a lateral release, a lateral release consists of dividing the vastus lateralis muscle. By dividing the vastus lateralis, this muscle is weakened, and if tight, stretched out; hence restoring balance to the Quadriceps muscle. It would mean another 6-8 weeks off my feet and longer PT time. Thankfully Dr. Morgan did not perform this procedure. Which means I will be able to enjoy the summer a lot more. I prayed that I would not need the procedure and God answered that prayer! Thank You Lord! Later I will post about my first PT experience. Lots to me angry about here....but God has been good again and provided me with a very experienced PT and on that will help me where the other two have not! Explain later in a different post.
Get out and enjoy your day! I am!
* Kris was baptized...YAY!
* Jaron was healed of hypothyroidism (with evidence)
* I was diagnosed as diabetic - controlling with diet and
exercise for 4 mo. then will return to see the doc and
do more tests and possibly start meds.
* Friday. May 30th, went to the boys' school musical...very cute!
* Sunday, June 1, had a Snow Cone Party for the kids celebrating the
end of school beginning of summer break. 
* Monday went to the pre-K picnic with Sara & Eli. Enjoyed talking with the other parents. Got to witness to another parent about God's healing. Her 3 yr old daughter after catching the flu at 18 mo almost died, has a heart condition due to the flu. Such a beautiful little girl. Was able to invite them to church. Hope they come. Really pushed the children's ministries.
* Tuesday was the last full day of school for the boys. They went to school on Thursday to pick up their report cards. Both did very well! Jaron had all A's. Kris master all of the tasks he was to master educationally and on the IEP tasks. He master a few and for the first time this year was progressing on all the rest! Huge improvement for Kris. Both have been advanced to the next grade!
Which brings me to Wed. and my wonderful knee surgery on my "Florida knee". I have been calling it that so that family and friends in Florida understand I finally got it fixed up. YAY! Plus the fact that I just had surgery in Jan on my left knee.
I had a scope done as seen above and the orthopedic surgeon basically fixed the two tears in the cartilage. One he snipped out the torn pieces and the debree left behind. The other he sewed the pieces back together and hopefully it will heal on its own. He also did some poking at the cartilage taking small pieces out hoping to create enough scar tissue to add cushion where the cartilage has been worn down to the bone.I also found out I have Chondromalacia patellae which means "softening of the articular cartilage of the knee-cap." Basically the underneath of my knee cap was a mess. The doctor describe it as blistering bone and he basically shaved and smoothed it out. As well as did some smoothing (shaving) of the femur bone where the knee cap glides over it. We are hopeful that will take care of everything.
I go for my 2 week post-op visit and we will see from there. The doc told Sean I will need cortisone shots on a regular basis. I am suppose to get the pictures of the inside of my knee from the surgery. If I do I will post them here as an educational tool and so show off my knee. So far this surgery although has been painful has been a lot easier because I am able to bear weight on it as tolerated. Which I can only tolerate a little bit at a time right now. Everyday is a little better than the last. As long as I ice after doing my exercises and after doing any type of standing and walking I do well at controlling the pain that and pain medicine.
Here you can see I have three incisions. Two are larger than the other. Don't let those small incisions trick you...small does not mean no pain! In fact in my case I was in severe pain and still have bouts with severe pain when not taking the pain meds regularly. I came home with an ace bandage from the middle of my thigh to my toes and on the other leg I had a surgical stocking. The kids thought it was hilarious. In fact Sara, our 4 yr old, wanted to know why I was wearing tights, and said, "you look funny mommy!" Which through tears I said thanks. The pain at that point was so bad I cried for 2 hrs even with the strong pain meds. The picture above was taken Thursday night. I had to change the bandages. Looks good! Today I have more bruising and no more ace bandage to wear except at night when sleeping. Although wearing it through the day does make it feel better. Today I plan to spend sometime outside sitting inthe sun. As you can tell I have lost my "Florida" tan. I miss Florida....you can be tan all year long all free from the sun of course!God was good to me during the surgery. I had no nausea like I have in the previous surgeries. I also asked the Lord to show the doc that I did not need a lateral release, a lateral release consists of dividing the vastus lateralis muscle. By dividing the vastus lateralis, this muscle is weakened, and if tight, stretched out; hence restoring balance to the Quadriceps muscle. It would mean another 6-8 weeks off my feet and longer PT time. Thankfully Dr. Morgan did not perform this procedure. Which means I will be able to enjoy the summer a lot more. I prayed that I would not need the procedure and God answered that prayer! Thank You Lord! Later I will post about my first PT experience. Lots to me angry about here....but God has been good again and provided me with a very experienced PT and on that will help me where the other two have not! Explain later in a different post.
Get out and enjoy your day! I am!
May 18, 2008
A mighty wind...
Well this weekend has been full. Full of spring cleaning the church and a bit of things around the house. Yesterday the kids were outside playing and Jaron and I notice Snowbell ( neighbor cat that gave birth on our porch just 23 days ago) disappeared under the ramp my dad built for me. So Jaron took a peek to see what she was doing and surprise! Two little baby noses peeked back at him. So cute! They were wrestling each other. Snowbell walked out and they followed. We scooped them up and brought them inside. I cleaned up their faces. Covered in dirt but so cute. We took some pictures, both appear to be boys, healthy and so cute! Did I say cute?! Here are the pictures I took.
See I told you they are cute. Jaron has named them, Socksy and Mister Mickey. Mister Mickey is in the front. Socksy is the one we saw born, all four feet are white socks.
See I told you they are cute. Jaron has named them, Socksy and Mister Mickey. Mister Mickey is in the front. Socksy is the one we saw born, all four feet are white socks.The kids have fallen in love with them. We put them back out with their mommy. I was sure she would take them off somewhere but she apparently feels safe with them under the ramp. She brought them out this afternoon and they were wrestling with her near the opening. The kids love seeing them play.
Then today... A MIGHTY WIND CAME!
I am completely honest I have no idea where the wind came from but it came fast, strong and at the most inopportune time! Sara was opening up our front door which has a porch door that opens out. As she was opening that door, the wind caught it and threw it back against the house with her in tow! She went flying through the air, hit the wall while holding the door and landed on the ground after hitting her knee on the wagon and hit her right check on the concrete porch!
She had a nice goose egg on her forehead and some nasty scrapes on her check. But thankfully no broken bones or concussion. She will most definitely have a nice shiner in the morning. Poor thing! She was so shaken up she just sat in my lap with tears rolling down her cheeks shaking!
I have to say God was watching over her. Had she fallen an inch in the opposite direction she would have landed on a shovel that had been used to plant some flowers. Thank you Jesus for watching over my baby girl, again!
May 11, 2008
Best Gift for Mother's Day!
Happy Mother's Day to all you wonderful Moms out there! Especially to my mom! Mom, I love you! Thank you for all you have done for me throughout my life. I am truly blessed to have you as my Mom! 
Today our family not only has celebrated Mother's Day but I received the best gift a Mom could get! My oldest son Jaron and two other children were baptized today. What a wonderful day in the house of the Lord today! Everything went smoothly and beautifully this morning during our worship service! Sara, Eli and Kristofer were so excited to see Jaron get baptized this morning. Kris wanted to be baptized too but he doesn't completely understand it so he will wait till he does. Eli was so funny, he said very loudly, "WOW, Daddy pushed Jaron under water!" Which got a few snickers around us. We are so proud of Jaron as well as Sabrina and Hannah who also were baptized. As Sean began to share how excited and what an honor it is to baptize his son, his voice cracked and I believe he shed a tear. What a fantastic day!
Next week we have a few more children who will be baptized. As the children's pastor and for Sean being the Senior Pastor it is our greatest honor to be a part of this wonderful experience with the children in our church. Watching them grow spiritually and step out in faith proclaiming their love and stand for Jesus is a wonderful thing to watch. All in all today has been a blessed and wonderful day!
Today our family not only has celebrated Mother's Day but I received the best gift a Mom could get! My oldest son Jaron and two other children were baptized today. What a wonderful day in the house of the Lord today! Everything went smoothly and beautifully this morning during our worship service! Sara, Eli and Kristofer were so excited to see Jaron get baptized this morning. Kris wanted to be baptized too but he doesn't completely understand it so he will wait till he does. Eli was so funny, he said very loudly, "WOW, Daddy pushed Jaron under water!" Which got a few snickers around us. We are so proud of Jaron as well as Sabrina and Hannah who also were baptized. As Sean began to share how excited and what an honor it is to baptize his son, his voice cracked and I believe he shed a tear. What a fantastic day!
Next week we have a few more children who will be baptized. As the children's pastor and for Sean being the Senior Pastor it is our greatest honor to be a part of this wonderful experience with the children in our church. Watching them grow spiritually and step out in faith proclaiming their love and stand for Jesus is a wonderful thing to watch. All in all today has been a blessed and wonderful day!
Apr 30, 2008
What I have learned...
Today ends the 30 day fast that we started on April 1st. We challenged our church to a 30 day fast. We challenged them to hunger and thirst for more of God, to press in when things got tough and to pray harder than they have ever prayed. To dive into the Word of God and truly seek more of Him.
Sean and I chose the Daniel Fast. We could have gotten very strict but we didn't. We gave up snacking, caffeine (me), meat and diary. The most dairy we had was cheese on veggie sandwiches. We allowed ourselves whole wheat bread occasionally. Was it easy..NO! Was it worth it...most definitely! I have craved chocolate and meat. Yes you can crave meat! Would I do it again, most definitely!
There are so many things that I have learned over the last 30 days. Or should I say God allowed me to see. I was fasting for more of God in my life, that He would drawn me nearer and shed light on things I need to work on and let go, for healing of my knees and my health, for direction and open doors for Kristofer's evaluations for autism and for a mighty move of the Holy Spirit in our church. This is what I can see happened this month through our fast; we now have the direction and open doors for Kristofer, YEA!!! We are starting to see the Holy Spirit moving more in our church services...YEA!!!
The biggest thing I have seen these past 30 days is what the Lord is doing in me. You see, I have always been a controlling type of person. Not in controlling of others but in situations. I do not like change, unless I know the outcome, unless I can control the outcome. I have a fear of the unknown. Now don't get me wrong I completely trust the Lord but the fear of the unknown always stops me from doing certain things. Such as seeking the autism eval. for Kristofer. But also in health matters for myself. I guess the Lord has been working on me for about 9 months now on that one.
Case in point, my left knee. I injured in twisting and falling down some stairs at home in Florida about 3 years ago. I put off going to the doctor and when I did I didn't follow the directions to seek counsel from an Orthopedic Surgeon. Now to be honest money and no insurance play a part in that but had I followed the docs orders I would not be where I am today. I got the results of the MRI on my left knee...complex meniscus tear in two places as well as a popliteal cyst and other problems. I could have had it fixed and not been in pain for the last 3 almost 4 years but the fear of the unknown and no insurance stopped me from pursuing medical attention. Now I am facing surgery to fix this and hoping that the damage is not extensive...we shall find out on the 8th.
In the last 30 days the Lord has shown me there are some things I need to let go of from the past (of which I will not discuss here). But also that I have got to face the unknown and tackle the health issues that I have. So I am going for a physical in the morning. I have not had a true physical in well probably since I was a child. Oh I went to the doctor when I was pregnant with all of our kids and have been going to the doctor for my knee but I have not gone for a true physical and had the blood work that I need to have. Am I worried, yes you betcha. But am I ready to face what ever surfaces and get healthy...yes! So tomorrow I face the unknown and face it ready and armed. "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "Plans to prosper you and not harm you plans to give you a future and hope." I am standing on that promise tonight. I am believing that God has ordained this time and place for me to face the unknown, face my fears and deal with what ever surfaces with His strength.
I have learned more than just this but for now this is what I will share. Oh and for those that care...I have let go of 16 lbs since Jan 1. YEA! This is exciting considering up until March 18th I was not allowed to do any exercise and have two bum knees! Thank you God for helping me face my fears and for helping me to let go of the weight of many things!
Sean and I chose the Daniel Fast. We could have gotten very strict but we didn't. We gave up snacking, caffeine (me), meat and diary. The most dairy we had was cheese on veggie sandwiches. We allowed ourselves whole wheat bread occasionally. Was it easy..NO! Was it worth it...most definitely! I have craved chocolate and meat. Yes you can crave meat! Would I do it again, most definitely!
There are so many things that I have learned over the last 30 days. Or should I say God allowed me to see. I was fasting for more of God in my life, that He would drawn me nearer and shed light on things I need to work on and let go, for healing of my knees and my health, for direction and open doors for Kristofer's evaluations for autism and for a mighty move of the Holy Spirit in our church. This is what I can see happened this month through our fast; we now have the direction and open doors for Kristofer, YEA!!! We are starting to see the Holy Spirit moving more in our church services...YEA!!!
The biggest thing I have seen these past 30 days is what the Lord is doing in me. You see, I have always been a controlling type of person. Not in controlling of others but in situations. I do not like change, unless I know the outcome, unless I can control the outcome. I have a fear of the unknown. Now don't get me wrong I completely trust the Lord but the fear of the unknown always stops me from doing certain things. Such as seeking the autism eval. for Kristofer. But also in health matters for myself. I guess the Lord has been working on me for about 9 months now on that one.
Case in point, my left knee. I injured in twisting and falling down some stairs at home in Florida about 3 years ago. I put off going to the doctor and when I did I didn't follow the directions to seek counsel from an Orthopedic Surgeon. Now to be honest money and no insurance play a part in that but had I followed the docs orders I would not be where I am today. I got the results of the MRI on my left knee...complex meniscus tear in two places as well as a popliteal cyst and other problems. I could have had it fixed and not been in pain for the last 3 almost 4 years but the fear of the unknown and no insurance stopped me from pursuing medical attention. Now I am facing surgery to fix this and hoping that the damage is not extensive...we shall find out on the 8th.
In the last 30 days the Lord has shown me there are some things I need to let go of from the past (of which I will not discuss here). But also that I have got to face the unknown and tackle the health issues that I have. So I am going for a physical in the morning. I have not had a true physical in well probably since I was a child. Oh I went to the doctor when I was pregnant with all of our kids and have been going to the doctor for my knee but I have not gone for a true physical and had the blood work that I need to have. Am I worried, yes you betcha. But am I ready to face what ever surfaces and get healthy...yes! So tomorrow I face the unknown and face it ready and armed. "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "Plans to prosper you and not harm you plans to give you a future and hope." I am standing on that promise tonight. I am believing that God has ordained this time and place for me to face the unknown, face my fears and deal with what ever surfaces with His strength.
I have learned more than just this but for now this is what I will share. Oh and for those that care...I have let go of 16 lbs since Jan 1. YEA! This is exciting considering up until March 18th I was not allowed to do any exercise and have two bum knees! Thank you God for helping me face my fears and for helping me to let go of the weight of many things!
Feb 21, 2008
Elmer
Let me introduce you to Elmer! He is the newest member of our family. Our Elmer has a red plaid shirt on. He lives in a brown box and loves to sing...My name is Elmer and I love the Lord. My name is Elmer and I love the Lord, He is the greatest and He saved my soul.. My name is Elmer and I love the Lord. Al with an Elmer southern drawl.
Elmer is my new toy so to speak. We purchased him and have no intention of having our church reimburse us. The kids love him. I have completely enjoyed creating a personality for him. For those that do not know I am the children's ministries director at our church. I teach children's church on Sunday mornings and on Sunday evenings we have Adventure Kids Club and I teach that too. Since being laid up with my knee problems I have been getting all kinds of ideas to enrich the lives of our kids. Another ministry we will be starting as soon as I can get back to teaching will be a kids worship team. They will be learning how to play hand bells while participating during our worship/song service.
Anyway, Elmer is so much fun. His head is at least 2 feet in length. I am doing a lot of practicing with him. We purchased his legs so he can sit on my lap as well. His head is pretty heavy so every now and then he just goes to sleep (my arm starts aching bad! anyone that has done puppets will understand just how bad it can get! well imagine it at its worse. His head is that heavy!)
Elmer has become a great social friend with Kristofer. Kris really lights up when Elmer wakes up and comes out of his home (box). It's easier to talk to the puppet than to me sometimes. All the kids love Elmer and I can't wait to introduce him to the kids at church.
I talked with Kristofer's OT today about his behavior at home. I wanted to make sure he wasn't having problems at school with aggression and crashing into things and people. I got some great reports! YEA! He has learned to tie his gym shoes in one day. I have never worked on this with him. His OT showed him a few times and he got it! His fine motor skills and pencil grip has improved dramatically. All great news!
At his IEP meeting back in Dec it was suggested that we have Kris evaluated for autism. He seems to be borderline with his behaviors and social issues. Well this is nothing new for us. But to be honest I just haven't been ready to hear a diagnosis. Sean and I have been discussing it alot and I just asked Jennifer today point blank what do you think. Naturally she made sure to say that she is not a professional that diagnoses this type of thing but because Kris is so much like many of her autistic students that she works with she thinks he may be and highly recommended that we get him evaluated. SO that is what we are going to do. Just as soon as I am able to get out of the house on my own and we get our doctor situation fixed. We are in between doctors right now. It's a long story and unless you want details I would rather not discuss it on here.
AUTISM what does that mean? This is what wikipedia.org states: Autism is a brain development disorder that impairs social interaction and communication, and causes restricted and repetitive behavior, all starting before a child is three years old. This set of signs distinguishes autism from milder autism spectrum disorders (ASD) such as Asperger syndrome.
Its just a word, really. You see the Bible says He who began a good work in you is faithful to complete it. I am standing on that fact! I believe that regardless what a doctor may tell us that Kris is perfectly made and that God has a purpose and a plan for his life. 
I believe that God has been and will continue to heal Kristofer and one day he will be standing before a crowd of people giving God the praise for his complete healing! Kristofer is an amazing kid! Yes everyday is different. A few years ago he was fixed on dinosaurs. We ate, breathed and lived dinosaurs. The kid knows more about dinosaurs than anyone I know. He knew things way before we even let him watch educational tapes Discovery tapes on dinosaurs. He just blew us away with what he knew. He couldn't say basic words clearly like cat or dog but he could say brontosaurus and other long dinosaur terms. Now he is fixed on Transformers. So much so that he everything is about Transformers. I say this to share about yesterday.
Yesterday we surprised the kids with small little toys. Eli and Sara had birthday money they wanted spend and both wanted to share it with the older two boys. So Eli picked out Transformers for himself and Kristofer. Inside one of the packages was a advertiser with other Transformer products. Well Kris found one that he wants. So he gets dressed, gets his shoes and coat on and says come on mom lets go get it. Like I can just get up and go! Needless to say it took me almost an hour and a half to calm him down when I told him we couldn't go. SO today he comes home from school and for 3 hours he keeps saying, "Lets go to store and get my toy!" Now we don't just buy our kids things all the time. We just happen to have our tax check and wanted to bless our kids. It took me all 3 hours to get him to understand that we were not going to just go buy this toy that costs $30. He will have to wait till his birthday. Well then we had to get the calendar out and he says that is too long, it's making me tired. No I told him, He is making ME tired.
Now the little guy is laying next to ME. He is sick. Threw up all over the living room carpet. Then after he had gone to bed while sleeping proceeds to do it again. Now he is laying on towels on my bed and has thrown up 3 more times. Poor Sean had to give him a bath. Good bonding time for them.
A song comes to mind....
My Redeemer Lives
Eugene Greco
My Redeemer lives and I will see His glory as He works all things
Together for my good.
Whatever things occur of this I can be sure, I know my Redeemer lives.
(Repeat)
Even though I walk through the valley, I will fear no evil He is with me.
And on the battlefield, although the pain is real, my struggles soon will fade as His glory is revealed.
(Repeat chorus twice)
Feb 11, 2008
Celebrating Today!!
Hallelujah! I am free from that lovely medicine called coumadin! YAHOO! No more blood thinners! I am clot free! I left my house this morning excited with he prospect of seeing other human beings (other than my husband and kids) today and going shopping. Now here is the thing I want to share the most with you. When I left the hospital I was given my appointment time for today's ultrasound on my legs. It was set for 1:15. Which I thought was great being that Sean had to do the over night shift. It meant he would be able to get a little more sleep time. Well last Thursday I got a call saying my apt. was at 11:15. I figured ok that would be better because we would at least be home by the time the kids go out of school and we wouldn't have to get someone to pick them up.
Well I get to the hospital, get checked in and waited maybe 10 minutes and the tech comes out to get me. She proceeds to ask me if Icame early because of the storm that is coming our way. A winter storm as it is called...meaning we could get snow, ice, sleet and freezing rain. Bad stuff when mixed together. I looked at her and said no that I have been called by a woman on Thursday telling me my apt was at 11:15. She tells me normally it is a man (Doug) that does the apt calls so she was confused. I looked at her and said well maybe an angel called and changed it so that I could get home before it got bad outside. She just smiled.
Now I believe in angels and God was definitely looking over us and preparing today for us because not only did I only wait 10 mins to get it (norm wait is at least 30 mins) and we had Eli & Sara with us but as we left the hospital the storm started. Sleet every where and it took a matter of 3 minutes for the roads to start getting slick and dangerous.
Unfortunately we did not get to go shopping but we did grab lunch as we drove home. I was a short outing but it was nice to get out of the house. Another reason I believe God had a hand in today's events ... had my original apt time been correct we would not have been home to get the boys. On our way home I thought I better call home and check our messages, good thing I did. WE were about 5 minutes away from home when we learned that the boys were being released from school within the next 15 minutes. Had I not called we would not have gone straight home and the boys would have walked home and been stuck outside in the freezing cold. God was not only watching out for us but for our kids as well.
Next Monday I go to see the surgeon and I will be 4 weeks post op! I am so hoping that he will release me to do ROM exercises. Until then I can now rest easy knowing that I am clot free and no longer taking terrible meds.
Out side is looking more like a winter wonderland again. We have about 1/4 inch of ice on the vehicle windows which means the ground is probably worse. According to http://www.weatherunderground.com/ we are looking at 2-8 inches of snow and possibly up to 3/4 inch of ice falling before the snow comes. We are hoping that we will be spared the ice storm so that we do not lose electric or our heat! Keep us in your prayers~
Today as all days God is worthy of our praise~
The song I have sang all day is this:
Well I get to the hospital, get checked in and waited maybe 10 minutes and the tech comes out to get me. She proceeds to ask me if Icame early because of the storm that is coming our way. A winter storm as it is called...meaning we could get snow, ice, sleet and freezing rain. Bad stuff when mixed together. I looked at her and said no that I have been called by a woman on Thursday telling me my apt was at 11:15. She tells me normally it is a man (Doug) that does the apt calls so she was confused. I looked at her and said well maybe an angel called and changed it so that I could get home before it got bad outside. She just smiled.
Now I believe in angels and God was definitely looking over us and preparing today for us because not only did I only wait 10 mins to get it (norm wait is at least 30 mins) and we had Eli & Sara with us but as we left the hospital the storm started. Sleet every where and it took a matter of 3 minutes for the roads to start getting slick and dangerous.
Unfortunately we did not get to go shopping but we did grab lunch as we drove home. I was a short outing but it was nice to get out of the house. Another reason I believe God had a hand in today's events ... had my original apt time been correct we would not have been home to get the boys. On our way home I thought I better call home and check our messages, good thing I did. WE were about 5 minutes away from home when we learned that the boys were being released from school within the next 15 minutes. Had I not called we would not have gone straight home and the boys would have walked home and been stuck outside in the freezing cold. God was not only watching out for us but for our kids as well.
Next Monday I go to see the surgeon and I will be 4 weeks post op! I am so hoping that he will release me to do ROM exercises. Until then I can now rest easy knowing that I am clot free and no longer taking terrible meds.
Out side is looking more like a winter wonderland again. We have about 1/4 inch of ice on the vehicle windows which means the ground is probably worse. According to http://www.weatherunderground.com/ we are looking at 2-8 inches of snow and possibly up to 3/4 inch of ice falling before the snow comes. We are hoping that we will be spared the ice storm so that we do not lose electric or our heat! Keep us in your prayers~
Today as all days God is worthy of our praise~
The song I have sang all day is this:
WHEN I THINK ABOUT THE LORD
Words and Music by JAMES HUEY
When I think about the Lord
How He saved me, how He raised me
How He filled me with the Holy Ghost
How healed me to the uttermost
When I think about the Lord
How He picked me up and turned me around
How He placed my feet on solid ground
CHORUS:
It makes me wanna shout
Hallelujah, thank You Jesus, Lord, You’re worthy
Of all of the glory, and all of the honor
And all of the praise
Words and Music by JAMES HUEY
When I think about the Lord
How He saved me, how He raised me
How He filled me with the Holy Ghost
How healed me to the uttermost
When I think about the Lord
How He picked me up and turned me around
How He placed my feet on solid ground
CHORUS:
It makes me wanna shout
Hallelujah, thank You Jesus, Lord, You’re worthy
Of all of the glory, and all of the honor
And all of the praise
Oct 2, 2007
From Golfballs to crutches
Today was my follow up with the surgeon today. I learned a few things. First of all God has been protecting me and kept me from serious injury. He also kept me from having a terrible infection! THANK YOU JESUS!
My gall bladder was holding two large stones. One was just over an inch and the other stone was 2.8 inches almost 3 inches in diameter! He said my gall bladder was in terrible shape and reiterated to me how amazed he was that I was not in more pain and more sick. He just kept saying how bad it looked and how enflamed it was. He also said the pressure it was putting on my liver was not good but I have NO damage to the liver. I told him it was due to God's healing power and all the people that were praying for me! Thank you for your prayers! I do feel so much better! I don't have the constant pain after eating now although my system is a mess. I am sure in time it will get better!
As for my knee...I was suppose to see the Orthopedic doc today but he had an emergency and had to cancel all appointments this week so I go to see him on the 16th. My knee is feeling better. The ligament pain is no longer there when I sit down or stand up! YEA! BUT I do still have pressure and pain insdie the knee. It feels like it is always ready to let go and it often times goes backwards on me. It is not pleasant and it hurts every time it does it. So keep praying for that!
God is a big God and He can do anything! Even heal my knee completely before I see the doc in 2 weeks!!
My gall bladder was holding two large stones. One was just over an inch and the other stone was 2.8 inches almost 3 inches in diameter! He said my gall bladder was in terrible shape and reiterated to me how amazed he was that I was not in more pain and more sick. He just kept saying how bad it looked and how enflamed it was. He also said the pressure it was putting on my liver was not good but I have NO damage to the liver. I told him it was due to God's healing power and all the people that were praying for me! Thank you for your prayers! I do feel so much better! I don't have the constant pain after eating now although my system is a mess. I am sure in time it will get better!
As for my knee...I was suppose to see the Orthopedic doc today but he had an emergency and had to cancel all appointments this week so I go to see him on the 16th. My knee is feeling better. The ligament pain is no longer there when I sit down or stand up! YEA! BUT I do still have pressure and pain insdie the knee. It feels like it is always ready to let go and it often times goes backwards on me. It is not pleasant and it hurts every time it does it. So keep praying for that!
God is a big God and He can do anything! Even heal my knee completely before I see the doc in 2 weeks!!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)