tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-56546931687361189402024-03-13T13:48:55.093-03:00The Juggling Act...Pennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920058914286208010noreply@blogger.comBlogger63125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5654693168736118940.post-29126239220566445422012-04-05T19:07:00.000-03:002012-04-05T19:07:00.326-03:00PrayerFrom insecurities come jealousy, from jealousy comes denial that it is your problem and you begin to blame the other person for doing things, being a certain way, etc<br />
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This feeling can drive you crazy.<br />
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I was tested today after asking God for help a little while ago. I'm still trying to get in the right mind-frame and not compare, etc. I found this prayer. <br />
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Lord Jesus Christ, I am caught in a web of jealousy that stays with me. Help me to put away from me this evil which your Word tells us rots bones (Prov 14:30) and even shortens lives . Bring home to me the further evils to which it leads if it is left unchecked: slander, calumny, hatred, damaged relations, persecutions, and worse things. Let me dwell constantly on the motives for loving others rather than being jealous of them. Remind me of the fleeting character of all life's attachments and successes and of the fact that our true happiness lies in being united closely with You and with all others in You.<br />
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May I remember this when jealousy and comparing myself to others rears its ugly head. May I seek God instead of seeking for ways to compare my life to someone else. I am fearfully and wonderfully made. I am a child of God! He loves me and has made me who I am. I am special and I don't need to feel insecure.<br />
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"jealousy comes from comparing your behind the scenes to someone else's highlight reels" I don't want to let it steal my joy!Pennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920058914286208010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5654693168736118940.post-52976770687523078762012-03-28T21:56:00.000-03:002012-03-28T21:56:44.037-03:0040 Days In The WordSo, our church started "40 Days in the Word" last week. It is basically a DVD lesson spread over 6 weeks where we meet as small groups to go over how to read/study the bible.<br />
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I'm ashamed to say that reading the bible hasn't ever been a priority with me. I've never learned how to do it, I've never developed te habit, and I've never taken the time to see if I could enjoy it.<br />
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I believe their 6 ways to study based on this "course" by Rick Warren. So far, we've learned "pronounce it" an this week we just learned "picture it".<br />
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Tonight's devotion while doing the Picture it method, I went through the newly learned steps of how to have/prepare for a quiet time (devotion)--something else I've never learned or practiced.<br />
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Step1: wait on God<br />
I sat quietly, listen to a worship song, etc<br />
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Step2: Pray briefly<br />
I began to pray aloud, and found myself talking and talking and then remembered that if I'm having a conversation with God, I need to listen to what He may have to say back. So I found my praying changed. I would say something and then wait, say something else and then wait. I found when I was praying like that, my prayers were more intentional, I felt very connected to my audience (if you will). Just sitting in silence made me slightly emotional as I started to feel how God felt about me. <br />
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So, I kinda ignored the briefly part, but it was awesome. I didn't watch the clock, and felt as though I could have continued for a while.<br />
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Step3: read a section of scripture....slowly<br />
Tonight I read my assignment of Mark3:1-6. The story of the man with the shriveled up hand on the sabbath.<br />
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Step4: Meditate and memorize<br />
I'll be honest, tonight I did not memorize 6 verses of scripture. But I did read it slowly with some verses reading and rereading a couple times.<br />
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Step5: write down what God Shows you<br />
Luckily, we have a handbook that leads us in the right path. The questions tonight"Be the man with the shriveled hand: are you incapacitated in any part of your life" and "be the Pharisee: are you disturbed when Jesus breaks religious rules or does something out of the ordinary"<br />
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I skip the first question...I don't identify. Then I write my answer to the second. As I'm writing my answer the the second, I start thinking about the first again. I'm really trying to identify with him...but obviously still trying to play the part of "everything's okay with me". Then it hits me..yes, I do identify with him. <br />
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My shriveled hand is my overwhelming fear of rejection and abandonment. Normal days it doesn't bother me....but if a friend seems upset or quiet, I assume it is me and she doesn't like me, if Scott and I argue, I feel that he will just up and leave me...those feelings are debilitating. They hurt and they aren't rooted in te truth. They are insecurities from my childhood/past. <br />
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Step6: Have your time of prayer<br />
So, since our workbook has two more sections where we are supposed to write down how the passage applies to us and what we will do about it and also a section where we can write our prayer, I just sat quietly after filling out those sections and listened for what God might say. <br />
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All I have to say is that the song Jesus loves me came to my thoughts. Such a simple truth, but yet so profound. He does love me, when ever I doubt if people in my life love me for me or whether they will abandon me, I need to remember that Jesus loves Me! He is for me! He has great plans for me! Don't focus on my feelings, focus on what I know....Jesus Loves ME!!!<br />
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I think tonight's devotion was awesome and now a little more than an hour later, I'm done my devotion. One more part to devotions is sharing with others what we learned. So there you have it...we are all soooo loved :)Pennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920058914286208010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5654693168736118940.post-57691836559574633072012-02-25T22:04:00.000-04:002012-02-25T22:04:39.056-04:00Once A Month Blogging...It has been a month since last time. <br />
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I think about blogging often, but don't take the time. Tonight I was checking out someone's blog and felt the urge to blog.<br />
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Since my last blog, there are a few updates:)<br />
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I've started running. First, it was against my will...well kinda. I love Zumba, but my best friend wanted to try something different. She and a good friend from work who runs marathons, talked me into trying it. <br />
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I went into it thinking I would hate it and that I would fail. <br />
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I was raised as the fat kid..."your sister was so tiny that she could sit in a bucket at 2 yrs old, you were so fat that when you were born (10 lbs 14 oz), the doctor said you don't need to feed that baby, she can get up and walk to get her own food".<br />
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So with that kind of ego builders, I've grown up insecure and unsure of myself physically. I believe I sabotage a lot of my weight losing goals to love up to what I've been told about myself. With that said, I am NOT obese in any way. I am overweight at 160 lbs and 5'3", but to see me walking down the street, I would not get stares from being overweight.<br />
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Anyhow, back to running. To up the ante and to keep us on track, we signed up for a 5k walk/run. So, now I've invested money, I need to complete my goal of running a 5K.<br />
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To my surprise, I love it...like L-O-V-E it love it! It is hard work, but not only do I feel good about it, I can only compete with myself, I get to practice perserverence, and motivation and earnest hard work, I also get my quiet time back. <br />
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Most people when they work out, listen to dance or upbeat workout music. By fluke, my mp3 player was on Chris Tomlin. With the first run when I was struggling, I just lifted my eyes, listened to the words and began praying for help...I've listened to Chris Tomlin eer since. If you know Chris, his songs are mostly church worship songs and slower paced. But the more into it I get, the faster and easier the running is.<br />
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I have become a RUNNER...yay me!<br />
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Tomorrow is my oldest baby's 7TH birthday! Wow! I knew it was coming, but oh my land, Noah is 7. What a great boy he is. I love him to pieces!!!<br />
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Today we had his birthday party. Like a lot of people recently, I was inspired by Pinterest. Noah is in love with all things Lego. So his party was Lego themed. I made a Lego cake, I decorated the gift bags to look like Lego, his invitation was a Lego invitation, the plates and cups were in Lego primary colors, and his gift bag contents had a Lego figure and Lego candy for his friends. I think it was his best party yet...I just wish sometimes that all of his friends were as well-behaved as others. In the end, the rowdy one learned who was in charge and began to show his respectful side.<br />
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Speaking of how great Noah is, I heard something about him and his character the other day. Actually, the comment was about both of my kids. One of their daycare teachers retired. On her second to last day, while picking up Olivia, she proceeded to tell me about Olivia's day. Apparently earlier that day, Olivia felt inspired to walk up to the teacher wrap her arms around her and say "I love you, Bevvy!" <br />
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Bevvy told me the story and proceeded to boast about my kids. She told me that both of my kids are GREAT kids, they are pleasant, polite, and it shows that Scott and I spend a lot of time with them teaching them what is right and take them to the right places.<br />
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All you parents out there know how these comments make your heart swell. I know to hear that my kids are exhibiting good behaviour when I'm not around to force it is such a great feeling! It is all about moulding our kids to be good Christians. I think Noah and Liv are on their way!<br />
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I must log off and get some rest...tomorrow we have Noah's favorite meal - salmon - and he gets to go to a hockey game with his dad after Sunday school and choir practice. I love the weekends, especially the ones that celebrate one of my best gifts ever! <br />
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Happy Birthday my sweet boy! I love you so much!!!Pennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920058914286208010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5654693168736118940.post-9969872724091162992012-01-25T16:37:00.001-04:002012-01-25T16:39:43.105-04:00Hope in the pain....Today has been an emotional day putting myself in other's shoes as I watched a beautiful young family say goodbye to their one month old.<br />
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The difference in a believer's funeral and that of a non-believer is so vast. Today, there was a message of hope in the pain. The young father got up and spoke to the congregation of his tragic loss, but of his love and hope because of his faith in Jesus. He showed such maturity and wisdom that could only come from a real relationship with God and trust that all will work for good.<br />
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At a time when it would be easy to choose anger, bitterness and independence from God, he and his young bride showed resolve to continue to bless His name and have hope.<br />
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The other night, after finding out about this tragic loss, Noah randomly asks me a faith question. He asks, "when you sin, do you have to ask Jesus to be your forever friend again?" (for Sunday School purposes, they teach salvation as asking Jesus to be their forever friend). I responded that wen you first ask Jesus to be your forever friend you ask him to forgive you of your sins, but you also ask him to come live in your heart. When you sin, you only need to ask for forgiveness cause Jesus doesn't leave your heart unless you ask him to.<br />
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A few seconds pass and Noah asks, "why would anyone ever ask Jesus to leave their heart". This young family's loss was fresh in my head, so I explained that a lot of bad things happen in the world and some people get angry with God and choose to blame him for the bad. I explained that the bad isn't Jesus's fault. I explained that we as Christians need to know when the worst things happen, we have to ask Jesus to help us not feel sad, angry and he woul help us"<br />
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Amazing the deep questions that can come from a 6-almost-7-yr-old. When I left his room, I had a heavy heart hoping I did okay in tr answering.<br />
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Almost a week later, I have seen proof that I gave the right answer. To see this young Family standing up worshiping to "blessed be your name" just feet away from their baby girl's casket is proof to me that no matter how hard something is, no matter how much pain you have, there is hope in Jesus and He will help you get through it. <br />
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They ended the funeral by singing "Because He Lives"....I thank God that no matter whAt comes my way, I can face the tomorrow's because He lives and gives me hope!Pennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920058914286208010noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5654693168736118940.post-77483404784180139102011-11-26T20:03:00.000-04:002011-11-26T20:03:35.547-04:00Do you believe in Santa?Before I start, please be warned that offense may happen as I step on my soap box. However, please also know that this is NOT aimed at anyone specifically and it is only a result of a conversation I had with my six-year-old son tonight..,<br />
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So since Noah was a baby, I've struggled with the decision to teach and/or support the Santa Claus theory. <br />
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When he was a baby, there was never a problem with it. He was too little to even know what Christmas was let alone Santa and everything else. We bought his gifts along with family and the word "Santa" was never mentioned.<br />
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When he was younger, I would tell Scott that I refused to allow our kids to believe in Santa. Coming from a united Pentecostal background, teaching Santa to your children didn't happen. I grew up knowing he didn't exist and I don't feel I missed out on anything.<br />
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As he got older, the world of Santa has been introduced to him. Daycare, school, television play a huge part. His daycare (after Olivia was born brings in a "Santa" and gives each child a gift which the parents pre-purchase, wrap and drop off to the daycare prior to the special visit.<br />
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When this would happen, we would tell Noah/Olivia that gifts from Santa only happen at daycare. We didn't want them to not get a gift when other children did, but they were too young to be trusted with the "Santa is not real" discussion for fear of the other children's familial beliefs.<br />
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This year, both kids were discussing openly about Santa and how they were excited for Christmas. We had had enough. Since earlier in the year we had briefly touched on the subject on Santa not being real, we went into more detail explaining how he wasn't real and that all gifts come from mom and dad and family. They seemed to get it; weren't disappointed since we had never made Santa a big deal.<br />
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Today, while at my company's Christmas party, Noah decides to write Santa a letter. I quietly explain that all his gifts are bought. He proceeds to tell me that "yes, but I'm asking Santa for something else that he can make and bring to me". I asked him if he remembered what we discussed a few nights before. He said yes, but wasn't sure he believed me. Since we were in a crowded room full of believers, I left it at that and knew that Christmas morning e would clearly know that he isn't exist since that item would NOT be under the tree.<br />
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Tonight, instead of doing a devotion, I told Noah the story of Saint Nicholas (VeggieTale style) and how from that wonderful act of spreading Jesus' love, the story of Santa Claus came out. <br />
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I, then, had an "AHA" moment. I told Noah that Saint Nicholas was a person like us and that people die. I asked Noah if he thought that anyone could live forever. He knew right away that God never dies and that Jesus died but came back to life. I then asked if he thought any other person could live forever without dying? He said "no". <br />
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Here is my soap-box moment... From that I had a moment of sadness for all Christians who teach their children that Santa is real. They are not only lying to their child, they are also giving someone else the same power that God has. Think about it..Santa never dies, you can't see Santa but he exists,Santa sees everything you do and rewards you if you are good, Santa brings them joy by delivering all these gifts on Christmas day.<br />
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If you want your child to believe in the one and only true God, you can't lie to them about Santa....cause really there are too many similarities in the story. I truly believe that this innocent story has been used by centuries to put the same doubt that children have about Santa in their minds about God. You can't tell them Santa is real, then when they find out it isn't true expect them to believe that God is real too.<br />
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Stepping off my soap box now!Pennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920058914286208010noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5654693168736118940.post-69308011470613533412011-08-28T20:34:00.001-03:002011-08-28T20:46:29.186-03:00Arghhh! Why the controversy...So, tonight I post a harmless status update on Facebook, and the first response makes me livid. What was a reflection on MYSELF somehow became a pissing contest over the controversy of working mom vs stay-at-home-mom.<br />
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My post was "Hmmm, I wonder if I were a stay-at-home wife/mom, would I learn to love housekeeping/cleaning? I would certainly have more time for it, but I doubt I would devote much time to it....yup, I think I would be lazy! Thankfully, I like working outside the home!"<br />
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I was simply stating the fact that I don't think I would be a good stay-at-home wife. I feel that if I were to choose that for our family, one of my main duties would be to take care of the home, in it's entirety, while my husband supported our family. (this is my personal opinion for me and my family). I would not expect my house to be in the state that it sometimes is with both of us working. I would expect untidiness at times, but I would expect that for a better part of my time at home, I would be keeping the house in good shape. <br />
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My status was simply stating that since I hate the housework and the daily chores around the house, I don't think I would make a good stay-at-home wife.<br />
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I didn't mention children, raising children, the blessing of being able to raise them....<br />
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For someone to bring children into this is a huge critical daggar to me....I don't feel that I'm NOT raising my children. I work outside the home. I still wake my children up, pack them a lunch (while in school), I do their homework with them, I cook their supper, I give them baths, I do devotions with them, I do their prayers at night, I tuck them in, I play with them, etc.... How am I not raising them? So, to comment on my self appraisal of a housekeeper and say that it is a blessing to be home and raise one's children, really ticks me off....<br />
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I have friends who are stay-at-home-moms and I have friends who are working moms. I've come to a pretty profound conclusion over who loves their children more....<br />
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First I will explain my choice of being a working mom....<br />
Back before I was ever pregnant, I used to say that I wanted to be a stay-at-home-mom. During my maternity leave, I looked for every at-home opportunity to earn money. I dreaded going back to work and leaving my child with someone else during the day. I sat down with my husband, we discussed the options and really looked at the finances and our quality of life and what we wanted. We chose, together, that I would return to work. I got slack from a couple people, but it was my choice.<br />
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After the first few weeks, I really enjoyed working outside of the home. There were times when I would have loved to be at home....but those days existed before I had kids too. I enjoyed the socialization of work, I loved what I did, I felt satisfied and like I was accomplishing something. I also felt like I was helping my husband with any financial strain he might feel supporting our family. Most of all, I felt the wonderful joy of spending my evenings and weekends with my family where we would have fun, we would play and we would just enjoy each other's time.<br />
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I didn't feel that my son (and now my daughter) ever loved caretakers more than me. I never felt that I was missing out on development. I have yet to regret our decision for me to return to the workplace.<br />
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I have a wonderful workplace where family is a priority. I am free to take time off with the kids when they are sick, I am free to take appointment time with the children. I have ample vacation time to spend with my family making lasting memories. I have wonderful hours where I have evenings and weekends to spend with them.<br />
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Now my big revelation....who loves their kids more...stay-at-home-moms or working moms......<br />
NEITHER... We are mothers and we all love our kids the same. We would do anything for them and would rather see them happy than anything else in the world. <br />
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As women, we need to stop trying to make the other side of what we are living feel guilty for their choices. As responsible adults, we do what we feel is right for our families and this stupid controversy over which parent is better and which parent is more blessed really makes me angry.<br />
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Working moms love their kids. Stay-at-home moms love their kids. Neither one are better than the other. They have both made choices and sacrifices as a family unit and they are living the life they chose. They don't need condemnation or criticism from anyone.<br />
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As mom's we have enough guilt in our lives, we don't need it from each other. Let us support one another in our choices.<br />
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Pennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920058914286208010noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5654693168736118940.post-67836875240940462262011-08-13T21:44:00.000-03:002011-08-13T21:44:40.158-03:00Hello helloJust in case anyone has missed me, I'm still alive :) <br />
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We've had a busy month. We had a wonderful 2 weeks spending quality time as a family while the daycare was closed. I can't believe how good it is to have a lot of time all together without agendas, without schedules, without limitations and just time to spend together and loving on each other.<br />
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As always, we did a lot of local activities; water park, amusement park, provincial park, an other local and regional tourist attractions. <br />
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I went back to work feeling rejuvenated and very happy and thankful forthe time<br />
We got to spend together.<br />
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Hope everyone out there is having a great summer :)Pennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920058914286208010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5654693168736118940.post-22953474743201282202011-07-11T21:48:00.000-03:002011-07-11T21:48:29.294-03:00Just a few things...I've been neglecting my blog for a few days/weeks, but it hasn't been intentional...just living life.<br />
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We've had our family pictures done.....FINALLY!!! They are absolutely phenomenal if I do say so myself. Everything I hoped they would be and more. Holly captured the essence of our family...God has truly and richly blessed her with such talent. Joy just oozes from her...how can one not have good results with such a joyous photographer.<br />
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Ive been doing A LOT of reading lately. I decided to attempt reading the Twilight series. I was against the hype and vowed I would never read it. Well, I gave in to prove a point that I wouldn't like it like everyone else. Epic fail....I became a huge fan! So much so, I read all 4 books in just a day over 1 week. Ive since read a leaked version of the first book from Edward's point of view and I became enthralled all over again. Such a great series.<br />
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Today, I started reading The Help and so far, it is panning out to be a great book.<br />
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Besides reading and work, this past week, our family has been enjoying our Christmas gift to ourselves...our Magic Mountain season's passes. We've gone 4 times in the past week!!!! So much fun!!! So happy with the wonderful weather we have been having!<br />
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If you are looking for a great family gift, it is such an awesome deal. For $260 (+tax) you can season's passes for a family of 4. One day alone for a family of 4 in season, are $85.50. So, we only have to go 3 times to make up the cost. <br />
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Olivia has been to the ophthalmologist. She is going to work towards having Liv's lazy eye corrected by the time ahe starts school. In order to achieve that, she will continue with her patching. Additionally, she will get drops added to her good eye (right) to dilate the pupil and render it weaker than her left. She has had the prescription lens removed from her glasses for the right lens. So, we are patching her right eye for 6-8 hrs per day, when she isn't patched, her right eye will be dilated with a Plano lens in her glasses. All of this to force her left eye to do the work to train her brain as well as develop that muscle to work in unison with her right eye later. Ahe is such a good sport and doesn't seem to complain. The dilation stings a bit, her eyes are sensitive to te light, and her overall vision is blurry because her weak eye is doing the "seeing".<br />
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Noah is busy continuing his learning to read adventure. Whenever you see him, he seems to always have a pen an paper in his hand. He wants to write everything and amazes me how well he is doing. According to his report card, which we are very proud of on all accounts, he is reading above a kindergarten level. My goal for the year was that he would read at his level...so we are happy with his progress.<br />
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Well, I guess those are my few things to share. <br />
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If you want to see a snapping of our family photos, visit Holly Howe's blog. I follow her on blogspot, so you can find her there. One more thing, I really recommend her, so please contact her to get your pics done....she is so worth it!!Pennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920058914286208010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5654693168736118940.post-29359921290042726402011-06-22T21:54:00.000-03:002011-06-22T21:54:09.858-03:00A Little Nostalgic...Last night I watched "19 Kids and Counting". It isn't something I normally watch, but on a side note, I must say how impressed that I am with the Duggars and their faithfulness to God and their faith and keeping it "real". A lot of people see the 19 kids and think they are crazy...I have thoughts on this...they are a self-sufficient family, they are raising a fine group of God-fearing/loving children who know compassion, kindness, thoughtfulness, courtesy and a lot of the qualities of true Christians. I commend them for doing what most of is with one or two children can find a daunting challenge.<br />
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Now, I'll step down off my soap box and blog my real reason for my post.<br />
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Last night's episode was Josh (eldest Duggar child) and his wife Anna and the birth of their second child. As I watched her labour at home and cuddle her one-year-old and wrap with tears of excitement, joy, and pure exhaustion, I began to bawl. <br />
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I've been there twice. As I watched her, I reminisced back 6 and 4 years ago when I, too, felt all those emotions in anticipation for my children.<br />
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It seems like yesterday all I had was hope and dreams for those little bundles. Today, I get to see those hopes grow throught the various stages...some haven't begun, some have just started, some are slowly progressing, some are building fast, some are already complete and there are some that have even surpassed my initial hopes. <br />
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Parenthood/motherhood is such an awesome experience that I sometimes unknowingly and unfortunately take for granted. Even with some of the hardships I had to endure before having my miracles, I still have had days where I haven't expressed or shown gratitude to the One who made it all possible. <br />
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Thank you, Father, for hearing my pleading cries and fulfilling all my dreams by allowing me the privilege of being a mom to two wonderful children whom I love with my whole heart. <br />
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Tonight I bless them and recommit them to you. I pray that the Lord will bless and protect you Noah and Olivia. I pray that He will show you mercy and kindness. I pray the Lord will ALWAYS be good to you and give you peace. I love you both so much!Pennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920058914286208010noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5654693168736118940.post-7392702459105323182011-06-17T15:03:00.001-03:002011-06-17T15:19:39.598-03:00Last "sick day"I've had a great last "sick day".<br />
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I've been feeling really well the last 2 days...I haven't had any meds (not even Tylenol) since Tuesday night. I likely could have gone back to work today, but having the weekend to complete the recovery brings me to almost a full two weeks and less chance of issues of being worn out when I go back to work.<br />
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This morning, I had planned to have my closest friend over for lunch while she delivered Scott's father's day gift. Surprisingly, I received a text from another friend who asked if I wanted to go see Noah's class (her daughter is in Noah's class) perform during the talent show. They were singing a song...."Old MacDonald's Alphabet Soup" - kinda funny since their teacher's name is Mrs MacDonald.<br />
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We only stayed for their song, but got to see the first 6 talents before their class went up. It really brightened up my day...their talents would last 10-20 seconds each...so, it was rather quick.<br />
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After we left, we went to the local coffee shop to chat for a few minutes.<br />
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When I got home, I breezed through the meal prep for my "delivery" friend. We had an awesome meal...salmon on the grill, basmati rice and fresh green beans. LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the gift we are going to give to Scott. I need to go out tomorrow to pick something to accompany it...but that SHOULD be a breeze.<br />
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All in all, a great day! To top it off, the weather outside is fantastic. Tomorrow, it is supposed to rain....kinda sucks since our family photos were supposed to be tomorrow, but we've rescheduled to 6:30 pm on Monday. I pray that my normally behaved children will continue with that attitude/behaviour and are a continued delight at a time close to their bedtime. <br />
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I've been wanting professional family photos for so long and I'm so excited that it is finally going to happen. I've been admiring the photog's blog with her photo gallery for so long that I know that she will capture the essence of our family and hopefully I will not be too critical of portraits of me. If you want to see her pics...here is the link to her site...you will be amazed/impressed she is so amazing. <a href="http://hollyhowephotography.blogspot.com/">http://hollyhowephotography.blogspot.com/</a><br />
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Tonight, we are ending this awesome day by surprising the kids and taking them to the drive-in to watch KungFu Panda. Every year, we at least get out once to the drive-in with the kids. It always depends on movie selection and the pairing of the kids and adults movie. This week, it is KungFu Panda and then for the adults, it is Thor....not my preference, but at least bearable.<br />
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Have an awesome weekend everyone. Hope it is filled with activities honoring the father's of your lives. Ours will be spent honoring the best father I know....the one who chose to be a father to my children. Love you Scott!Pennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920058914286208010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5654693168736118940.post-13670903067769072892011-06-16T08:01:00.000-03:002011-06-16T08:01:19.487-03:00It Is Well With My SoulWow! I happened upon this last night when searching for something totally unrelated. I am amazed at God's sustaining power in some people's lives!!!<br />
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Found it on the following website: <a href="http://www.faithclipart.com/guide/Christian-Music/hymns-the-songs-and-the-stories/it-is-well-with-my-soul-the-song-and-the-story.html">http://www.faithclipart.com/guide/Christian-Music/hymns-the-songs-and-the-stories/it-is-well-with-my-soul-the-song-and-the-story.html</a><br />
<h1>It is Well with My Soul, the Song and the Story</h1><h2>Composer Horatio Spafford, It is Well with My Soul</h2><div id="articlebody"><div id="articlebody-inline"><div style="float: right; padding-bottom: 20px; padding-left: 20px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: right; width: 230px;"> </div></div>Horatio Spafford (1828-1888) was a wealthy Chicago lawyer with a thriving legal practice, a beautiful home, a wife, four daughters and a son. He was also a devout Christian and faithful student of the Scriptures. His circle of friends included Dwight L. Moody, Ira Sankey and various other well-known Christians of the day.<br />
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At the very height of his financial and professional success, Horatio and his wife Anna suffered the tragic loss of their young son. Shortly thereafter on October 8, 1871, the Great Chicago Fire destroyed almost every real estate investment that Spafford had.<br />
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In 1873, Spafford scheduled a boat trip to Europe in order to give his wife and daughters a much needed vacation and time to recover from the tragedy. He also went to join Moody and Sankey on an evangelistic campaign in England. Spafford sent his wife and daughters ahead of him while he remained in Chicago to take care of some unexpected last minute business. Several days later he received notice that his family's ship had encountered a collision. All four of his daughters drowned; only his wife had survived.<br />
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With a heavy heart, Spafford boarded a boat that would take him to his grieving Anna in England. It was on this trip that he penned those now famous words, <i>When sorrow like sea billows roll; it is well, it is well with my soul.</i>. <br />
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Philip Bliss (1838-1876), composer of many songs including <i>Hold the Fort, Let the Lower Lights be Burning</i>, and <i>Jesus Loves Even Me</i>, was so impressed with Spafford's life and the words of his hymn that he composed a beautiful piece of music to accompany the lyrics. The song was published by Bliss and Sankey, in 1876.<br />
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For more than a century, the tragic story of one man has given hope to countless thousands who have lifted their voices to sing, <i>It Is Well With My Soul.</i> <br />
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This visual, <a href="http://www.faithclipart.com/powerpoint/not-anxious-church-powerpoint.html">Be Not Anxious Church PowerPoint</a>, provides an ideal enhancement to the words of the song. <br />
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<b>It Is Well With My Soul</b><br />
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When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,<br />
When sorrows like sea billows roll;<br />
Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say,<br />
It is well, it is well with my soul.<br />
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<b>Refrain:</b><br />
It is well (it is well),<br />
with my soul (with my soul),<br />
It is well, it is well with my soul.<br />
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Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come,<br />
Let this blest assurance control,<br />
That Christ hath regarded my helpless estate,<br />
And hath shed His own blood for my soul.<br />
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<b>Refrain</b><br />
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My sin, oh the bliss of this glorious thought!<br />
My sin, not in part but the whole,<br />
Is nailed to His cross, and I bear it no more,<br />
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!<br />
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<b>Refrain</b><br />
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For me, be it Christ, be it Christ hence to live:<br />
If Jordan above me shall roll,<br />
No pang shall be mine, for in death as in life<br />
Thou wilt whisper Thy peace to my soul.<br />
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<b>Refrain</b><br />
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And Lord haste the day, when my faith shall be sight,<br />
The clouds be rolled back as a scroll;<br />
The trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend,<br />
Even so, it is well with my soul.<br />
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<b>Refrain</b><br />
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“<i>Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.</i> (Philippians 4:6-7) <br />
</div>Pennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920058914286208010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5654693168736118940.post-75782288475624877792011-06-14T11:17:00.000-03:002011-06-14T11:17:38.391-03:00Six days post surgeryTomorrow will mark one week from my surgery to remove my gallbladder. <br />
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Everything went well! I had low blood pressure right after, but considering my blood pressure was only 106/62 before surgery (my normal), they weren't overly concerned with the 90some/50some.<br />
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I was home by 3:30-4:00 pm and in bed resting with some wonderful drugs. <br />
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Since then, I've been moving more with less pain every day. My goal was to be in a state where I could attend Olivia's 4th birthday party on Saturday. Thankfully, I went and had no issues at all, other than being very tired (read exhausted and very bloated)for 24 hrs later.<br />
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Nothing much else to update other than my sweet beautiful little girl is now 4-years-old. This week has ironically been a reminder of 4 years ago...needing to sleep propped up with pillows, extremely tired, and mild discomfort.<br />
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It still feels like yesterday that I was going to bed at 11:24 pm and I tell Scott that I'm having horrible pain. He tells me to try to rest. Olivia had other plans, 3-5 mins later, the pain was back.<br />
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At 1:06 (after waiting for Scott and Noah to arrive), my precious baby girl was born and our family was complete. <br />
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Happy Birthday Olivia! Mommy loves you so much and can't be prouder than to call you my daughter <3<br />
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I'm noPennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920058914286208010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5654693168736118940.post-4295008108007121692011-06-05T20:10:00.000-03:002011-06-05T20:10:56.714-03:00All in good time...Who ever said/thought positive thinking and the choice of blessing over cursing doeant work?!?!?<br />
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Well, I've got a story for you!!!<br />
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Remember my pesky gallbladder? The cancellation of the surgery to remove said gallbladder?<br />
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Well since my canceled surgery, I've had no major attacks, I've had no major pain, and some days have gone without any symptoms at all :)<br />
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On the 31st, I felt the urge to call my surgeon's office to check in to see if anything had progressed, were they booking surgeries for July, if ahe was back in Moncton.<br />
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To my surprise, she was in Moncton and was likely booking surgery for Mid-to-late June. They asked if I would be willing to have surgery on the 13th or the following week. Of course, I said yes. They said they would mark my name as a potential, but needed to discuss the schedule with the doctor as she ultimately chooses who goes and in what order.<br />
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Fast forward a few days, June 2nd, I get a phone-call late in the afternoon. "can you make it for surgery next Wednesday (8th)?" Without hesitation, I said yes and now I'm 3 sleeps away from surgery.<br />
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To make it even better, I don't have to travel an hour away (early in the morning, involving my father in law to drop te kids off at daycare/school, my surgery is in my city and I don't have to be there until 8:20 in the morning. I should be released by 2:00 pm and home before the kids are home from daycare/school.<br />
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Wowzers! I'm excited that I'm so blessed that I haven't had a torturous ordeal that most have with their gallbladder before removal.<br />
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Another positive thing! I received a call from Liv's ophthalmologist. What normally can be a 6-12 month wait time, we have her appt for July 4th. Can't wait to have her eye condition assessed and know the treatment plan. The patch seems to be working, buy we weren't given a definite course of action from our optometrist who is soon leaving to have her third child. <br />
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All of this pleases me immensely! Thank you God for working all things for my good!Pennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920058914286208010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5654693168736118940.post-56438041647845733372011-06-02T21:33:00.000-03:002011-06-02T21:33:10.550-03:00Are you ready to laugh???Tonight after work, Olivia starts working right away at drawing a picture. As I walk by, she warns me "Mommy, you can't look, it is a surprise".<br />
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I proceed downstairs to fold a load of laundry.<br />
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A few minutes later, my sweet, beautiful, and dainty girl comes down the stairs to present me with her drawing.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjunfMnj-SoKVHJj79EhSccaNwIejXur8XK_QDNmCZpqM-RrZyzeg62nrmsAa_oUolB7BNneP20xjdUzewcy30S1-uWSdc1_Hy2k8XdxqiwS5E2sA6gOqPkO6fch8-CxNSd8op4sRC_ARO0/s1600/IMG_0548%255B1%255D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjunfMnj-SoKVHJj79EhSccaNwIejXur8XK_QDNmCZpqM-RrZyzeg62nrmsAa_oUolB7BNneP20xjdUzewcy30S1-uWSdc1_Hy2k8XdxqiwS5E2sA6gOqPkO6fch8-CxNSd8op4sRC_ARO0/s320/IMG_0548%255B1%255D.JPG" t8="true" width="240" /></a></div><br />
Mommy: Olivia, what a nice picture.<br />
Olivia: It is a picture of you mommy!<br />
Mommy: Oh, how nice!<br />
Olivia: It is a picture of you pooping on the toilet...look, I spelled your name P-E-N-N-Y that spells "Pe -en- ny"<br />
Mommy: You should go show Daddy that wonderful picture (holding in immense laughter)<br />
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Oh dear!!!!!Pennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920058914286208010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5654693168736118940.post-37052834199486837152011-05-29T21:02:00.000-03:002011-05-29T21:02:18.209-03:00Have you ever....Have you ever finished a weekend feeling "fat" with content when nothing extra ordinary happened?<br />
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Maybe it is just me.<br />
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We didn't do anything exciting...just our normal "hanging out" weekend where we just wind down and lay low.<br />
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Tonight, as I feel extremely exhausted, I feel happy, not with anything in particular just content with life.Pennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920058914286208010noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5654693168736118940.post-56641295362456402632011-05-20T21:16:00.000-03:002011-05-20T21:16:54.256-03:00Flowers<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" j8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij-IdYZck4hyJgApBPFfgbJKTs9polR5_Ou6pGEtE6omj4lSQDnCJ0uCUQB07wHLhW5qGCPdruKVBl2ilOx5BxJgdB45AP7JCOWkNl4m3ykWwTWdQkXB6TGFD2LF4V2RVh3J9bsOEYsT_s/s320/tigerlily.jpg" width="240" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Scott has been bringing flowers home for his 2 girls for the past 3 weeks....these are my favourite so far. The smell is divine and they've got to be one of the prettiest flowers ever!!! Love my husband and the father to my little girl, who is showing her a father's love <3 <3</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Pennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920058914286208010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5654693168736118940.post-80220993191933860672011-05-18T22:16:00.000-03:002011-05-18T22:16:18.206-03:00"Wee" pneumonia...As you know, Liv has been struggling with a fever since Sunday evening/night. We went to two separate clinics on Monday, where everything was presenting "clear" (ears, nose, and throat and chest). We were told to return on Wednesday if the fever persisted.<br />
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Every evening we would think she was getting better and the fever would spike after she was in bed. At it's highest, it was 104 degrees.<br />
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Today came and Scott stayed home with her and took her to the local clinic where a lot of our emergency room physicians work from. Again, upon examination, nothing was presenting. Since it was the 4th day with persistent fever, he sent her to have a chest x-ray and urinalysis.<br />
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Note to all moms of children between the ages of 3-6....apparently it is very hard to diagnose chest illnesses by stethoscope. Before 3, it is easy, after they are 6, it is easy, but this in between stage, it is very difficult to rule out pneumonia unless an xray is taken. This is what the doctor told Scott today.<br />
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We got a call this evening where the ERP told us that she had a "wee" pneumonia in her right lung. He said that if she is feeling fine, not presenting with a fever, she can resume activities at daycare/sunday school, etc. He prescribed Zithromax (child version) for the next 5 days.<br />
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So, I'm not excited that she has pneumonia, but I'm so thankful that we live here in Canada where we have access to healthcare where we don't have to second-guess our maternal instincts because we can't afford a visit to see a physician, to go ahead with a chest xray, or to go ahead with urinalysis. All recommended diagnostic tools were readily available and I didn't have to pick and choose which would be the most precise.<br />
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We have a very happy girl tonight going to bed knowing that she gets to go back to daycare tomorrow....she has been missing her friends like crazy this week.<br />
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I'm so thankful for the books and encouragement I've received since becoming a mother that has instructed me to never ignore my maternal instinct based on opinions of others around me. I believe mothers who let others' opinions of their child rearing/decisions affect how they parent are doing a great disservice to their God-given ability to know what is best for their family and their children. If you don't listen to that voice inside as a mother, you will slowly be able to quiet it completely and at a great expense, I think. Enough of my rant : PPennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920058914286208010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5654693168736118940.post-9255079740683797772011-05-17T20:21:00.000-03:002011-05-17T20:21:56.919-03:00Galatians 6:4 - Tonight's devotional with the kids...I have to admit that while doing the kids' devotions, this mommy is learning a lot and really taking it to heart and applying when necessary.<br />
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"Each person should judge his own actions and not compare himself with others. Then he can be proud for what he himself has done." (NCV)<br />
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"Pay careful attention to your own work, for then you will get the satisfaction of a job well done, and you won't need to compare yourself to anyone else." (NLT)<br />
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"Make a careful exploration of who you are and the work you have been given, and then sink yourself into that. Don't be impressed with yourself. Don't compare yourself with others." (MSG)<br />
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Over the past year with some transition at work, I've been slowly learning to live Galations 6:4. I've learned that if I apply myself at work and not worry about being the front-runner, waiting for the kudos, but put my head down and do whatever is assigned to me, that I will get my reward...and I mean my reward that only God can give. <br />
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In the last year, I've been blessed with the best manager in our whole department, I've been given tasks that aren't my forte, but I've excelled in them, I've been given opportunities that I never thought I would be tasked with. I've kept quiet, not second-guessing everything going on around me and my reward....I'm truly happy with my job. <br />
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Last year, I was working for recognition, I was competing within the team, I wanted all the glory and recognition. <br />
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Isn't it funny that God, without me knowing it, was instilling in me Galations 6:4.Pennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920058914286208010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5654693168736118940.post-67686776798396433112011-05-17T18:00:00.000-03:002011-05-17T18:00:45.259-03:00What was I thinking?!?So, I've had this unidentified pain in my neck since Sunday morning. No, it isn't my husband and/or kids, lol.<br />
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I assumed it was one of two things:<br />
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1) I slept wrong and figured it would go away within a day.<br />
2) Lack of sleep due to Liv being up a few times in the evening coupled with gallbladder pains through the night making it hard to sleep.<br />
3) Zumba - out of the 1 week and 3 days that I've had the new videos, I've only missed two nights....I thought that maybe I had strained my neck.<br />
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It was only in the middle of the night last night, while trying to adjust myself so my neck didn't hurt, I blamed Scott for stealing my pillow. We switched pillows....STILL, my head was a wrong angle and I was too tired to try to figure it out where my "normal" pillow went. I at least knew the source....I needed to locate my pillow.<br />
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On Friday or Saturday, I cleaned our bedding and re-made the bed. In that event, I apparently completely forgot that I don't sleep with the pillow that is in the pillow case, but that which is in the pillow sham.<br />
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So, now, I have this HUGE pain/strain in my neck because I somehow got mixed up for 3 straight nights. Tonight I will use the right pillow, but I think I will need a massage to cure my neck pain....wuhn wuhn.....<br />
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The funniest thing is that in the middle of the night, Scott and I, both half asleep had a jovial argument/discussion about where my pillow could be, lol. I couldn't even figure out that my proper pillow was up against the headboard.<br />
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Oh, silly Penny!!!!Pennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920058914286208010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5654693168736118940.post-64542539368782594672011-05-16T09:30:00.000-03:002011-05-16T09:30:53.014-03:00Cuddle Day!Liv went to bed last night with a nasty cough, sore ears, sore throat and a fever (102.3)<br />
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We medicated her put her to bed and said we would assess in the am. She woke up feeling pretty much the same :( <br />
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I am home with her today while we get some serious cuddle time and a clinic appt in a little while. <br />
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I thank God for the company I work for, I accumulate sick time and have personal days for days just like today. I know some people look down on us working mothers, but I feel I have the best of both worlds. I'm ALWAYS available when my kids need me and if I'm not, Scott is. We have a great staff of women who love our children as their own and make sure their needs are taken care of. When your kids wake up excited to go to daycare to see their friends and are even more excited to see you at the end of the day and spend weekends with you, I can't feel bad or guilty about our set up. <br />
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I'm praying that my little girl feels ether really soon so that she isn't quite so miserable...Pennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920058914286208010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5654693168736118940.post-17611237606276253342011-05-14T07:46:00.000-03:002011-05-14T07:46:07.998-03:00ProgressThis morning after waking up, Olivia was getting ready to put her eye patch and glasses on. I tend to assess her eyes. Before patching, as soon as her glasses came off, her left eye would instantly go to the center and her right eye would be straight. This morning, I noticed that her left eye remained straight for approx. a minute. I find when I bring attention to it by saying "good control over your eye" she loses it. I'm assuming that she isn't aware of what she is doing to give her the control, so when she tries to do anything, it forces the eye to cross again. With all that, I'm happy to see progress that we weren't seeing with just the glasses. <br />
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Still waiting for a phonecall from the ophthalmologist for an appt...but the waiting isn't so bad when we're seeing tiny positive changes already.<br />
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Nothing much else is going on here....same old same old.<br />
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Funny how the phrase "same old same old" can be seen in a negative light or can be misconstrued that someone is hoping for something better...in all honesty, I love same old same old. To me, that means that we are not experiencing any new struggles, everything is how it should be and we are very blessed.<br />
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Looking forward to a great weekend and maybe some sun!Pennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920058914286208010noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5654693168736118940.post-63705990112438121462011-05-03T21:29:00.000-03:002011-05-03T21:29:09.562-03:00I'm doing laundry :)Woohoo! I never thought I would be so excited to do laundry again.<br />
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After waiting 1.5 weeks to do my own laundry, and after a complaint just this morning from Noah as to why he had to push all his clothes into his hamper, I did my first load of laundry tonight.<br />
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They were delivered today; the electrician's work is done, the dryer vent successfully installed, the plumber did what he needed to do to set up the plumbing in our new "laundry" spot. <br />
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The washing machine is just a-humming and the dryer is too and I can't hear it because it is downstairs and we will soon have a hamper spot as well as a spot for a new portable A/C this summer to help cool our house down even more :)<br />
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What a great way to keep my mind off what would have been the night before my surgery :) With that said, sending up a prayer for my surgeon and her husband tonight! I hope and pray they are getting the results/answers they were looking for.Pennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920058914286208010noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5654693168736118940.post-38389326252153687822011-04-28T21:31:00.000-03:002011-04-28T21:31:16.923-03:00Phillippians 4:6-9Caught myself in "worry" today. <br />
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***had our follow-up today with Liv's optometrist today. The glasses aren't doing everything she had hoped. We have been told to commence patching while we wait for our referral to the ophthalmologist. She is unsure of what the ophthalmologist will recommend....either bifocals or surgery to correct her vision/lazy eye issue.<br />
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Found this scripture and am speaking it to myself and learning to apply it to this situation.<br />
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<strong><u>Phillippians 4:6</u></strong> Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. <strong><u>7</u> </strong>Then you will experience God's peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. <strong><u>8</u></strong> And now dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. <strong><u> 9</u></strong> Keep putting into practice all you learned and received from me - everything you heard from me and saw me doing. Then the God of peace will be with you.<br />
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Father, I will not worry about anything (including Liv's eye situation), instead I will use that energy to pray about it. God, I need to know the cause and treatment for her vision issues. I thank you Father for the health care we have received thus far that has led to the early diagnosis and treatment of her eye. I thank you that she had taken so well to the glasses. I thank you for your peace that I am going to experience throughout this waiting period and after. I pray that it will guard my heart and mind from worry as I put my faith and live in you. God, the only thing that is completely and wholly true, honorable, and right and pure, and lovely and admirable is YOU....so, I will think of you at all times and praise you for your excellence. May your peace be with me as I practice all I've learned from Paul's teachings.<br />
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I thank you for your word, God.Pennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920058914286208010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5654693168736118940.post-7189235129182137892011-04-27T20:59:00.000-03:002011-04-27T20:59:05.894-03:00Blessing and cursing...So, I got some bad news today...my surgery has been postponed indefinitely.<br />
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I received a call from my surgeon's office saying that se hadto go to Toronto with her husband suddenly and things were moving very quick and she was canceling all surgeries for May.<br />
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Immediate thought, this SUCKS!!! <br />
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I remained calm, explained I was disappointed, but I was okay and wasn't angry. The receptionist advised me that I'm still a great candidate for the hospital I was going to and once my surgeon returned, and dates were available for the hospital again, I would be on my way back. <br />
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Now, I had a choice, I could choose blessing or cursing. I opted to choose blessing. Something about the reason compelled me to feel for my surgeon and pray everything was ok. I had no idea why she was going...I thought maybe a transfer for her husband (a surgeon too), seminars, sick family. <br />
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Tonight at power up, one of the parents who works at the hospital came to speak to me and tell me she was sorry my surgery was cancelled/postponed. She, then, proceeded to tell me that my Dr's husband is criically ill in Toronto undergoing experimental treatment :(<br />
<br />
I'm so happy that I chose blessing instead of cursing. Te small amount of pain I go through every so often pales in comparison to te amount of pain/stress my surgeon is feeling right now as she is envisioning losing her "friend, love, husband,etc"<br />
<br />
So, I thought my quick referral, appt date, and such were an answer to my prayers, but maybe they are an answer to her prayers. She now has one more person speaking on her behalf to our Healer and Comforter and asking for Him to bless this family of "healers" and be with them in their time of need. Father, I ask for peace, courage, and faith for this couple. Please extend your grace and mercy to them.Pennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920058914286208010noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5654693168736118940.post-25253160956298389032011-04-24T21:07:00.000-03:002011-04-24T21:07:42.128-03:00WeekendI was really looking forward to a great weekend. We were going to go to our church's Good Friday service as well as today's Easter service.<br />
<br />
Wednesday night, after Olivia was put to bed, she woke up vomiting. Soon after, the fever started. I kept her home from daycare on Thursday. She maintained the fever through to late Friday, so we didn't go to church.<br />
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Saturday morning, everyone was healthy and feeling well. <br />
<br />
I took a nap in the afternoon and was awoken by a horrible<br />
Sound from our washer. Our washer that we bought in 1998 decided to stop spinning. Although inconvenient, I was happy that laundry was up-to-date including Liv's blankets she was sick on.<br />
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We decided to go price a new washer and dryer set since no stores were open today. <br />
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While at Sears, Noah kept sitting on the floor. I thought he was just bored. When I saw his face, I knew instantly hat we needed to get him home before he had a major vomiting episode in the middle of te appliance aisle.<br />
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Our endearing son will never admit to being sick, feeling ill. So on the way home he was saying he felt fine. We no more than got in the door and he hurls all over the living room floor :(<br />
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Luckily, he had no fever. Unlike Olivia he continued to vomit bile even after his belly was empty. He experienced extremely sharp pains in his belly too. <br />
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We called Telecare to see if there was anything that could be done for the pains. They advised us to go to emerg since it could have been something more serious than the flu. <br />
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Thankfully, there were 4-5 empty parking spots at Emerg, and two people in the waiting room. Noah's heart rate was elevated due to beginning stages of dehydration. They gave him Zofron (?) to help ease the vomiting and sent us on our way. <br />
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We no sooner got home and got Noah in bed, that I went to use the washroom and upon flushing, the toilet began to overflow A LOT!!!! The floor was covered in toilet water (thankfully only #1). <br />
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I was already starting to feel nauseous, our tub was already filled with wet towels from our broken washer that quit right at spin cycle. I had to use about 10 clean towels to clean up the mess.<br />
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Wihin 15 minutes ofthis episode, I was on my hands an knees vomiting :(<br />
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Very quickly, I developed a fever and continued vomiting through the night.<br />
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I'm so thankful, it is a long weekend and have been able to spend the day in bed recuperating.<br />
<br />
As the weekend ends, <br />
- 3/4 of our family has had vomiting and fever. <br />
- 2/4 of our family has had diarrhea. <br />
- 1/4 of our family has had to deal with a bunch of sickos and really step up (thanks Scott...love you for it), <br />
- we are without a washer (Scott has had to make a trip to the dingy laundromat)<br />
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I'm eagerly anticipating tomorrow so that I know our family is one day closer to being healthy again.<br />
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With all of this "bad", I still remain hopeful an positive and know that it pales in comparison to what some people have endured this weekend, this week, this month, this year. <br />
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In all things give thanks....God I thank you that we have the means to be able to afford a new washer and dryer, I thank you that we had comfortable beds to rest in while we were sick. I thank you for a husband who didn't complain once with all the extra little things he had to do since yesterday. This being Easter weekend, thank you for the ultimate sacriice you made when you sent your son Jesus to die for our sins and rise again victorious! Our weekend will never compare to that weekend Jesus enfured so many years ago.<br />
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Happy Easter everyone :)Pennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920058914286208010noreply@blogger.com2