The Chambers' Chatter

Annual Pumpkin Patch Visit

2010-10-26T10:37:00.000-05:00

We have been taking the kids to The Flower Mound Pumpkin Patch EVERY year since right before they turned one! So, this year we made our 6th annual trip! It's a pretty cool tradition, I'd say; and one we look forward to repeating every year!

2010-10-26T09:33:00.001-05:00

Last year I posted a FLASHBACK around the time of the kids' birthday, and I thought I would repost it so you could go back and see just how much they have changed in just the last year! The kids turned six this month and I am ever amazed at how they have changed (sometimes daily) in regards to their personality, wit, wisdom, energy, physicality, spirituality, and emotional growth.

The kids outside church at FIVE years old.

The kids at home the morning of their birthday party turning SIX!

One of the things that has NOT changed about my dynamic duo is that they are still BEST FRIENDS and LOVE being "two-gether"! I am continually blessed by these two and LOVE them beyond measure!

A typical day @ the Chambers

2010-10-26T08:59:00.000-05:00

The kids just finished reading and are having PE outside right now (They have caught FOUR anoles so far!); but when they come in...it's time for

GEOGRAPHY! <--- CLICK HERE for fun games!!!

I LOVE LOVE L-O-V-E LOVE being home and teaching my kids!

btw ~ the Cheesy Crackers (<---click here for RECIPE!!!) smell WONDERFUL as they are baking and will be perfect with the potato soup we are having for lunch!

I MADE YOGURT!!!

2010-10-07T09:55:00.001-05:00

I am SO loving the new food blogs I have found/started following!
Check these two out for the EASIEST, CREAMIEST, and BEST yogurt around!
I will never be using "store bought" again....EVER!!!

RECIPE ONE <----- CLICK HERE

RECIPE TWO <----- CLICK HERE

Tune in again for more recipes and perhaps pictures of my new found YUMMY goods!!

I am making another batch of yogurt NOW (The kids have already eaten HALF of yesterday's batch for/with breakfast & in banana/strawberry smoothies!) and baking cheesy crackers!!
So you'll have to check back for that recipe =)
Blessings and have a GREAT DAY!

Living Science ~ A glorious leaf bug makes and appearance!

2010-09-25T11:41:00.000-05:00

I just KNOW our baby girl is going to be an entomologist someday! She LOVES bugs!!! After we had had the leaf bug "captured" and "observed" for a bit, we set it free. After this video was shot, Maggie proceeded to "play" with the bug all around the yard and on the tree fort until it finally flew away

(probably QUITE relieved =D )!!

Sorry the video is sideways, I haven't learned how to rotate them on blogger yet!

Tonight's Dessert ~ Apple Custard Pie

2010-09-24T12:11:00.000-05:00

I have discovered several new food blogs lately and am dying to try the new recipes!!
Tonight I am making Stromboli (old recipe) and steamed broccoli (old stand-by) for dinner, BUT for dessert I am making Apple Custard Pie that I found while searching Taste of Blue Sky.

Here is HER picture !
We'll see what MINE looks like AFTER I make it later today!!
To get the recipe.... CLICK on HER image above!!!
IF you try it, PLEASE link back to my blog and let me know how YOUR family enjoyed it!!

Flashback for Fall ~ Aut-YUM Leaves

2010-09-24T07:25:00.001-05:00

It's hard to believe that it has been two years (ALMOST) since I posted the original post!! To salute that it is finally Autumn (doesn't "feel" like it, yet!), here is an annual treat in our house! They are so fun and EASY to make, maybe they'll become a hit in your family, too!
---> CLICK HERE <---

It's been a crazy two years full of bumps, rollercoasters, and pitfalls; and my blog has "suffered horribly from neglect"! I am hoping to get back on top of things and post a bit more regularly about our crazy adventures of life and homeschooling!

Blessings and have a great day!

Swimsuits to School?

2010-05-19T07:49:00.000-05:00

When's the last time you got to wear a swimsuit to school?

Just another one of the many joys of homeschooling!

No More No Less - MercyMe

2010-05-18T08:25:00.002-05:00

This song is like an anthem to my soul! The first slide had this quote...
I can only PRAY that I AM EPHESIANS to the world around me!

You are Ephesians
Chances are you have made a couple of whopper mistakes in your life…cause it’s usually people like you who really understand their position in Christ. You know it’s not by might, and not by power, and certainly not through works, but only through the blood of Jesus Christ. That’s all there is that’s standing between you and the Father…and that’s all you need. People find you to be generally more grace-filled than most. You are attractive to the faith, and are usually a bit more on the non-traditional side.

A friend posted this song on their blog/facebook page this morning....
"Funny" that they would post this today...God has a "funny" way of making His point over and over again sometimes to me!
1 Corinthians 15:52, Paul says it is all about the change. We will all be changed. In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye... See More… May we be changed by the grace of God and be used today for His glory. Don’t let the evil one make you think you are not worthy. All of our stories are worthy of Him who died for us.

"Don't let the evil one make you think you are not worthy." ~
is exactly what I meant when I posted Britt Nicole's song yesterday!
The line that says...
"Your insecurities try to alter you....................... "
Satan is really attacking me these days through my "shortcomings" and "insecurities".

This was an Affirmation from God that "I AM WORTHY"!
God seems to be shouting at me.....maybe it's about time I sat up and listened ~ because another friend posted
Psalm 139
13For You formed my inward parts;
You wove me in my mother's womb.
14I will give thanks to You, for [a]I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
Wonderful are Your works,
And
my soul knows it very well.

I prayed verse 13 the whole time I was pregnant and I tell the kids verse 14 every single day! But most days I do not believe it for myself......

Walk on the water

2010-05-17T10:06:00.001-05:00

Step Out
even when a storm hits
Step Out
even when you're broken
Step Out
even when your heart is telling you
telling you to give up
Step Out
when your hope is stolen
Step Out
you can't see where you're going
you don't have to be afraid

May the words of this song encourage and uplift you in your journey!
Blessings today and ALWAYS!

Where Does It Start? ....in YOU!

2010-05-14T08:58:00.001-05:00

Where does it start...in YOU! <-----click here to read on Facebook

Have you ever been in a tough situation? Praying for a change? A change in someone or something?
...you THINK ~ it just isn't happening...you THINK ~ God isn't answering...
BUT just maybe He is!......the answer is that He is working or is waiting to work IN YOU.
Have you ever thought that there is something that must be cleared and cleansed from within you before the other can occur? Oh Heaven's no...of course you haven't. I don't mean to sound flippant or uncaring there ~ but some times (IF we are HONEST) that is exactly our response.
In the last couple of days, I have had a couple of revelations about myself that (LITERALLY) brought me to my knees...shaking, crying, and trembling. I have found myself broken, shattered at the seams, and have been left bare before the throne of Grace.
I have found that I am the one who must change, and I cannot do it...as hard as I try...nothing I do will accomplish the change required. I MUST ALLOW GOD to change me from the Inside...Out.
Let me just tell you that the ruler of this world loves it when God's children struggle! Satan comes to lie, and cheat and steal their hearts. He throws parties when we harden our hearts to the love of God or when we make idols of people or things! None of it has to be intentional ~ but it exists nonetheless. What has to be INTENTIONAL is the condition and content of your heart and mind.
The sins in Ephesians 4:17 - 32 invite Satan into your life, and they hurt you and grieve the Spirirt of God.
Is it worth it to hang on to them?

Living as Children of Light
17So I tell you this, and insist on it in the Lord, that you must no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking. 18They are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts. 19Having lost all sensitivity, they have given themselves over to sensuality so as to indulge in every kind of impurity, with a continual lust for more.
20You, however, did not come to know Christ that way. 21Surely you heard of him and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus. 22You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; 23to be made new in the attitude of your minds; 24and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.
25Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one body. 26"In your anger do not sin"[d]: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, 27and do not give the devil a foothold. 28He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with his own hands, that he may have something to share with those in need.
29Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. 30And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

Here's to fleeing the darkness & walking as children of the Light!

Don't just take MY word for it

2010-05-12T09:39:00.000-05:00

Here are a few others much more notable than I who also find Plan B AMAZING!!

Plan B Endorsements

“What do you do when you wake up with shattered dreams and unmet expectations? Pete Wilson’s book, Plan B, offers honest encouragement and spiritual insights when life doesn’t go as planned.”
—Craig Groeschel, senior pastor, LifeChurch.tv, and author of The Christian Atheist

“If your life is going according to plan, if your pain level is low and your ease meter is high, you probably don’t need this book. But for the rest of us, I am glad it’s around.”
—John Ortberg, pastor and author, Menlo Park Presbyterian Church

“Pete Wilson is a fresh voice for all today who wonder if they’ve missed God’s best life and are relegated to gathering dust. He provides honest hope, a sound biblical base, and real answers. What also touched me as a reader was his warmth and authenticity. A great read for us all.”
—Dr. John Townsend, author of Boundaries, psychologist, and business coach

“No matter what you’re going through, Plan B will help you get through it. Plan B is a down-to-earth book written by a down-to-earth pastor. Authentic hope is only a book away!”
—Mark Batterson, senior pastor, National Community Church, and author of Primal

“Pete Wilson is a young, dynamic leader with a growing church and a heart to see people reach out and find Christ in the midst of any and every circumstance. His sincerity and desire to disarm some of life’s difficult twists and turns with godly perspective will help anyone struggling with life’s realities and Plan B.”
—Brian Houston, senior pastor, Hillsong Church

“Hope is packaged and sold in many different ways in our society, often wrapped with false promises and an unrealistic view of life. This is why Plan B is such an important book. Pete deals openly and honestly with the disappointments we experience, pointing us to a hope that endures, sustains, and overcomes.
We all know people who have walked away from God because of Plan B experiences, not realizing that these are the moments God uses the most. Pete shows us that we don’t have to deny the reality of what we face. We simply need to embrace the reality of a God who loves us and who is greater than our greatest disappointments. After all, His Plan B for our lives is the best plan of them all.”
—Jeff Henderson, pastor, Buckhead Church

“Pete Wilson is a tremendous communicator whose warmth and care for people are evident on every page of this fantastic book. Plan B is a powerful resource for the detours of our lives. I wish this book would have been available years ago when some of my Plan As crashed, but I’m so thankful for the wisdom of its pages for my Plan Bs today.”
—Jud Wilhite, senior pastor, Central Christian Church, and author of Eyes Wide Open

“While reading Plan B, I cheered, wept, and rediscovered parts of my faith that I’d long given up on finding. Like a conversation with an old friend, Pete Wilson’s reflections about God and life are engaging, sensitive, and moving. As far as I’m concerned, if you’re working on plan A, Plan B is a good prerequisite.”
—Matthew Paul Turner, author of Churched and Hear No Evil

“In a generation that faces ever increasing disappointment with life, this book masterfully reminds us that God is at work and turns everything around for good. As you read Plan B, you will sense the genuine love and concern from a pastor who cares. Well done, Pete.”
—Chris Hodges, pastor, Church of the Highlands

“If Plan A for your life isn’t working out too well, you’re not alone. In this book, Pete Wilson helps you make sense of life’s frustrations and disappointments. The stories in Plan B remind you once again that God, who began a good work in you, is faithful to complete it. Pete is a passionate voice for a new generation of Christians. He is a man who lives what he writes.”
—Robert Emmitt, senior pastor, Community Bible Church

“Pete Wilson tells the truth. Following Jesus is hard . . . really hard. Plan B is not another book filled with pat answers to life’s most painful questions; it is a bold yet gracious exploration of how the love of God sustains when the broken dreams and shattered expectations of life threaten to overwhelm us.”
—Ian Morgan Cron, speaker and author of Chasing Francis: A Pilgrim’s Tale

Traumatic Brain Injury

2010-05-11T13:00:00.000-05:00

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Traumatic brain injury (TBI, also called intracranial injury) occurs when an external force traumatically injures the brain. TBI can be classified based on severity, mechanism (closed or penetrating head injury), or other features (e.g. occurring in a specific location or over a widespread area). Head injury usually refers to TBI, but is a broader category because it can involve damage to structures other than the brain, such as the scalp and skull.

TBI is a major cause of death and disability worldwide, especially in children and young adults. Causes include falls, vehicle accidents, and violence. Prevention measures include use of technology to protect those who are in accidents, such as seat belts and sports or motorcycle helmets, as well as efforts to reduce the number of accidents, such as safety education programs and enforcement of traffic laws.

Brain trauma can be caused by a direct impact or by acceleration alone. In addition to the damage caused at the moment of injury, brain trauma causes secondary injury, a variety of events that take place in the minutes and days following the injury. These processes, which include alterations in cerebral blood flow and the pressure within the skull, contribute substantially to the damage from the initial injury.

TBI can cause a host of physical, cognitive, emotional, and behavioral effects( these are the ones we have faced ~ and to me are harder to explain to others because there is no outward PHYSICAL sign), and outcome can range from complete recovery to permanent disability or death. The 20th century has seen critical developments in diagnosis and treatment which have decreased death rates and improved outcome. These include imaging techniques such as computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. Depending on the injury, treatment required may be minimal or may include interventions such as medications and emergency surgery. Physical therapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy may be employed for rehabilitation.

Living with the Aftermath

2010-05-11T10:12:00.001-05:00

http://www.amazon.com/Over-My-Head-Doctors-Looking/dp/0740705989

Here are two more books to read for greater insight.
Living with the aftermath of a traumatic brain injury, isn't just a journey for the patient... it is a journey that every family member and loved one will take with them. It is not easy to talk about, but if you are truly interested ~ these are two books that have been invaluable to me to help me understand a bit of what was going on (neurologically and emotionally) and why it was happening. Depsite all this information, it is still difficult to live with some days. You just don't "get over" the trauma of catastrophic proportions overnight.....but YOU can learn to live again. That's where some of the other books (Plan B, Just Enough Light for The Step I am On, and my BIBLE) I have talked about came into play. I am still healing and grieving (emotionally and spiritually) as is my husband (physically, mentally, spiritually, and emotionally).

http://www.amazon.com/Living-Brain-Injury-Families-Second/dp/1891525093/ref=pd_sim_b_5

Thank you for your continued prayers as God provides restoration and healing from the "fall-out" of the last 20+ months. We are together as a family and that is the greatest blessing. Although the journey is a difficult one some days, it is also filled with God's mercy, grace and blessings! My husband could have been taken from us the day of his accident...and I cannot even fathom the loss of a spouse. So each day we have with him is a miracle and blessing in and unto itself. It may not always look like what I want it to look like ~ but that is not my place to judge. My place is to live a life that gives God the glory, and THAT I will do until my dying day!

Jeremiah 29:11 (New International Version)

11 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

The One who breathed life into me ~ KNOWS my future and I put my FAITH, HOPE, & TRUST in Him!

Walking on Broken Glass

2010-05-11T09:05:00.001-05:00

I wanted to share with you a post from a friend (<----- click here to visit Robin's blog) who is living her Plan B (<----- click here to read about my previous post on the book Plan B) right now, and though you may not have had the same journey as she or I have had.....we all have times when our lives have not turned out as we expected. So on that level, I hope that you can and will relate to her feelings and emotions. I have also posted my response to her post so that you will also gain insight into my heart and my journey.

Walking on Broken Glass…

by Robin on May 11, 2010
Yesterday was less than good.
How do I say this?
I had goals for this journey…
~to provide a peaceful environment where Emma could find spiritual, emotional and physical health.
~to help her ready her life for the big changes ahead.
That’s pretty much it. Or so I thought. But somehow in the past week this other goal took the number 1 spot, edging out the others.
I didn’t give this goal permission to control my attitudes and emotions. But for crying-in-the-rain, the pushy goal has been quietly gaining ground and yesterday my attitude and emotions were 100% controlled.
Here’s the stealth goal…Getting Emma over her “boyfriend”, past the emotional ties. Past the grief. Past the …relationship. (Obviously, they have to have a relationship on some level since they will be forever linked by this little One.)
And how many of you are seeing major problems with this? Yes. I know. Major problems.
I’ve never been able to control Emma. I certainly can’t control her tender heart now. Only her Father God can do that. And He is able.
So I’ve been walking on broken glass so to speak, giving up my goals. Giving Emma back to the One who loves her most and knows her best. Letting go of my daughter for the umpteenth time in the past 23 years. Sigh. Heavy sigh.
We go to the Neurologist this afternoon. We may not get loads of answers but should at least get a tiny bit of light to help us take the next step.
Are you weary with me asking for prayer? I wouldn’t blame you, but here’s the thing, every single ounce of energy I have is going into this journey right now. I can’t focus on anything else. Oh, except praying for the needs you’ve told me about. God is being so sweet to whisper your names to me all day long, reminding me to pray, pray, pray…
Love to you my friends~

Here is my reply:
Never to weary to pray for you my friend! I have been “walking on egg shells” (my very own broken glass) for about the 20+ months. I have run a gamut of emotions during that time. And what I learned/LIVED has been very similar to what you are discribing this morning. I could not control anything ~ not people, not circumstance, not emotions….NOT ANYTHING! What I could do was ask God for “just enough light for the step I am on” (which btw is an amazing book by Stormie Omartian) and keep putting one foot in front of the other ~ day after day walking in faith and KNOWING (still learning this one) that HE is in control and I don’t have to be. He is using everything in my life (and others in it as well) to make me into what He intended me to be before He thought me into being! Throughout the last several months well intended friends (Christian and non-Christian alike) have said how strong I was, that they would have given up, and that they can’t believe what all I have been thru…….. there have even been times that my husband asked why I was still here. The answer is “simple”…because this is where God placed me to do the work He set before me! What right do I have to question that (although I frequently do)? HE placed it before me, HE is bringing glory to His kingdom by working thru me, He is doing it ALL…. for I will tell you in my finite wisdom ~ I could never see the good for all the “bad” or difficult that I have been carried thru by HIM!!! Loving and praying for you both (well….baby, too ~ so that makes three!) and rejoicing that you reached out and gave me the blessing of doing so!

Thank you for sharing in my journey and for taking time today to share in a bit of Robin's. I pray God's blessing, guidance, mercy and grace for you today right where you are in your own journey.

Thanks for stopping by........

Getting to the HEART of the matter

2010-05-09T19:56:00.029-05:00

I have more than once gotten a little upset with God for showing me my own shortcomings in the actions, words and deeds of my daughter and a few days ago was no exception. Maggie is a beautiful child with a budding heart for God. She is lively, artistic, funny and a joy......however ~ there are also days that she is all those plus strong-willed, stubborn, and down right defiant! Yes, my daughter, whom I love so dearly, manages to push every wrong button in me and sometimes all at once! Her brother is her best friend and the best discipline I have ever used with them has been to separate them when they are being unkind to one another or not speaking with love an respect to each other.

However, the other day was one of those trying days when she just woke up on the wrong side of the bed. Everything was upsetting her and she was resorting to yelling at her brother. Yelling is unacceptable in our house and once I had addressed that issue, her volume was lowered but the words coming from her mouth were still not kind. She was beginning to stand with arms crossed across her chest in anger and defiance. Again, unacceptable in our house. It is not merely the behavior or outward actions that concern me. What concerened me was what I felt was taking root in her heart. THAT is what truly concerned me. I had several talks with her, using God's words rather than my own and thought we were making a bit of headway. As the conversation progressed, I told her I was displeased and did not like her ACTIONS, but that I loved HER. I asked her if she understood that. She said yes, but I could see that the light wasn't really on ~ not yet! The real breakthrough came when I asked her if she always liked Mommy or what Mommy did. You could see the confusion in her eyes...you could see she was REALLY wondering if it was ok not to always like what our parents say or do ~ much less admit it to them. Then I went a step further and said, it's ok honey ~ Mommy knows that you don't always like what I say or do ~ but I also know that you always LOVE Mommy! Then it hit her ~ and her heart broke.....the tears started streaming down her cheeks, her face got all splotchy and red (the tell-tale sign that it is a REAL cry!!), and she said she was really sorry. She said she should not have been treating her brother that way...that it was not how God would treat him. Once I calmed her, I asked if she was ok and she said she just needed me to hold her awhile longer. It was THEN that MY lightbulb went off!! Thank you God (REALLY ~ NO SARCASM THIS TIME!!) for showing me once again my own areas that need work...thru the eyes of my child!!!! See, I don't always respond in a loving and Christ-like manner, my words can and do sting (especially when I have been hurt by someone). It's not a very admirable trait, and one I work HARD at releasing to Him! (over and over ~ as needed!!) That is one of which I have been aware, but the one that I wasn't quite as tuned into ~ was admitting that I don't always like what God does. Sure I can tell YOU about it....but admitting it to Him (my Creator, My Redeemer, my Father.....) that is next to impossible! He provides for me, meets my needs, comforts me, and teaches me to grow more than I knew I could. Why would I tell God that what He was doing wasn't enough or that I didn't like it?! What an ungrateful child I would be....right?! Oh, but wait ...aren't those the roles we take with our children?! Do we think them ungrateful when they don't like our discipline? Our rules? Our guidance? The veggies we make them eat?!  Sometimes, but that was the point wasn't it? That I was telling my own daughter is was OK not to like everything I do or say or have asked her to do, but that I would love her just the same and she would love me! So God, as I am living a life that is not as I planned it …in the midst of my Plan B (more like R, S & T) ~ I do not like what you are doing, I don't like things that are happening to and around me, I don't like to see ones I love so deeply hurting so ~ as HARD as those things are to admit to You.....

You are my Father and I know you can handle it. I know you love me and that I LOVE YOU MORE THAN LIFE ITSELF. I TRUST YOU to bring me through it all and that You WILL be glorified! Break me, mold me and make me anew IN YOU!

And by the way, while You are doing all this, could You hold me just a little while longer?

Simply Cyn-ful Creations

2010-05-04T13:21:00.001-05:00

In case you were wondering what else occupies my time.....

these are some recent custom orders!

You can see these and more by visiting

http://www.simplycyn-fulcreations.blogspot.com/

You can also find them on Facebook

by CLICKING HERE <------

Awana Ceremony May 2nd, 2010

2010-05-03T11:35:00.001-05:00

Garrett & Maggie - 5 1/2 years old - Awana Ceremony

I love this picture of them!

There's NOTHING like their "two-getherness"!!

Goofy Faces!!

I get the BEST smiles when I tell them it is the LAST picture!!

Daddy and his "not so little ones"!!!

Although not the best shot....I actually made it INTO one picture!

Waiting for it all to begin!!

A celebratory cookie afterwards!

The kids and their awards!

We didn't get started until March (a little more than halfway thru the year) so they didn't finish their book...BUT from March 7th until April 25th (that's ONLY EIGHT WEEKS!!) they MEMORIZED TWENTY THREE (YES ~ 23) verses! I am SO proud of them! They are like little sponges...soaking it all in and truly WANTING to hide God's word in their hearts!

We used this experience to provide structure, listening to a "leader/teacher" other than mom, and for more socialization experiences with other children. And while we did discover that although the are academically advanced, we will not "promote them" ahead to first grade next year. I was when I was younger for the very same reasons (academically advanced), but I WILL NEVER recommend that to another parent. With the kids having a fall birthday (October), the are still technically Pre-K. Next year we will enroll them again in Kindergarten Sparks Awana and continue with our current homeschooling curriculum. I am excited to see what the next year holds as they continue to surprise me with their thirst for knowledge!

Live Like We're Dying Official Video [HQ]

2010-04-29T20:04:00.002-05:00

The hubby and I are HUGE American Idol Fans,
and this also happens to be one of the kids' FAVORITE songs!!
AWESOME lyrics!
86 - 400 seconds in a day to turn all around
or throw it all away...............
You gotta tell 'em that we love 'em
while we got the chance to say
we gotta live like we're dying!

Tamara Lowe at Christ Fellowship

2010-04-29T15:43:00.000-05:00

Between TobyMac and Tamara Lowe I just may learn to like "rap" afterall!!

The Institute for Creation Research

2010-04-29T10:57:00.000-05:00

I so look forward to getting their free magazine (Acts & Facts) every month and thought I would take a moment to share and allow you to choose to be blessed by it as well!

You can CLICK HERE <------ to read the current issue online!

Evidence for God

"While absolute proof of the existence of God cannot be realized by any human being, the great weight of evidence, when rationally evaluated, clearly balances the scales heavily in favor of God. We can demonstrate "beyond a reasonable doubt" that "He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him" (Hebrews 11:6).

Posted using ShareThis

Evidence for Truth

Roman Governor Pontius Pilate’s famous question “What is truth?” (John 18:38) is answered in absolute terms by Jesus Christ: “And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” (John 8:32). If truth is knowable, then it should follow that there would be ample evidence of truth in and around our universe.

Does God Have a Specific Plan for Your Life? Probably Not.

2010-04-29T09:58:00.000-05:00

Here is a post from another blog that I have begun to follow.

Does God Have a Specific Plan for Your Life? Probably Not.

I love this....
"If God has something specific for you, you’ll know, I promise. But if He is setting a box of crayons down in front of you (a box of crayons called life) then by all means draw. He’s taught you right from wrong, good from bad, beautiful from profane, so draw. He will be with you, proud of you, cheering you on, so draw. He loves you, so draw in the inspiration of the knowledge of His love. Draw a purple horse, a red ocean, a nine-legged dog, it doesn’t matter. Lets stop being so afraid. Lets live, and show the world what it really means to be grateful we don’t live in a dysfunctional family."

Drag Races Anyone?!

2010-04-27T11:44:00.000-05:00

The kids last night for AWANA was last Sunday and it was 50's night!

A Kiss for Luck !

My little man showing off his muscles and "slicked back" hair!

My angel sweet and sassy (as usual)!

Strengthening The Body's Post for Today

2010-04-27T11:37:00.001-05:00

(to follow Strengthening the Body on Facebook <---------CLICK HERE)
Proverbs 16:3 Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and your plans will succeed.

....what are you doing to strengthen your "physical" body today? For me ~Yesterday was free weights then cardio on bike and eliptical. Today ....I am going to an "Aqua Fit" class this morning! I have never done one before! I am actually really excited!

As a stay at home mom (did you know that about me ?), my body had adjusted to the physical activity that I exert taking care of a home and young children. Having been physically active all my life (a dancer), I found it hard after three knee surgeries,2 kiddos, and growing older (no guessing my age here!) to accept the physical changes in my body! I also struggled with eating disorders for years (If I am honest....I still battle that demon from time to time). When I joined First Place 4 Health, I thought I was going to get something totally different out of it ~ than I have! Oh how wonderful God's plans are! On the physical side, I have lost about 18 pounds in the last 10 weeks and have "up-ed" my regular physical activity. And just within the last week, I have committed to going to the gym a minimum of three days a week...doing cardio, light free weights (no "bulking up" for me) to tone my arms, weight machines for targeting "problem" areas, aqua fit.....and who knows ~ I might even try kick-boxing in a few weeks! So, you better watch out! :-)

I can tell you that working and committing to balancing oneself physically, mentally, spiritually, and emotionally is tough ~ but they are ALL connected!
I wish you much success!
Proverbs 16:3 Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and your plans will succeed.
Blessings!!

UPDATE ~ ...I can't move...what was I thinking?! :-) Well, I WAS thinking Aqua Fit would be a "day off" between the weights & cardio - something low impact that would still be good for me.....I guess it WAS ~ but I was also a DEFINITE WORKOUT! H2O and ibuprofen here I come :-)
Then on to chores, sewing, kids, lessons, and the rest of a beautiful day!

Information doesn't = TRANSFORMATION

2010-04-22T15:31:00.001-05:00

Below is an portion of another blog I read today............. CLICK HERE <------- to read the whole thing!!

"Here is what I am reminded of today:

I don’t need more information to have a better marriage….I need to be a more loving husband (WIFE).
I don’t need more information to let go of resentment…I need to choose to forgive, then choose to forgive again, and again.
I don’t need more information to grow in my faith…I need to surrender control.
I don’t need more information to have deeper friendships…I need to be a better friend.
I don’t need more information to know God’s will…I need to apply what I know about God to my life.
When you and I trade transformation for just more information we are reduced to external changes in our lives that might make us appear closer to God, but really leave us unchanged."

Very simply put ~ but the TRUTH is....it hit too close to home! It stung with the pain likened on to being hit right between the eyes with a 2x4 swung by Paul Bunyun! OUCH!!!!
Psalm 139:23

Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.

Flashback

2010-04-22T12:41:00.000-05:00

Back in October 2008, I had a post about a book by the title ~ Create To Be His Help Meet.

Some posts just need to be revisited every once in awhile and some books DEMAND to be a permanent part of your library! This is one of those books!

If you haven't checked it out before, take time and do it NOW! Along with your bible, it is an invaluable reference tool for your role as biblical wife!

Continued blessings to you!

A verse for today

2010-04-22T12:26:00.000-05:00

Proverbs 12:4

A wife of noble character is her husband's crown, but a disgraceful wife is like decay in his bones.

Enjoying yesterday's sunshine

2010-04-22T11:32:00.000-05:00

plan B

2010-04-22T10:59:00.000-05:00

My bog has been soooooooo neglected !! It has been so long since my last post and I have been at a loss as to where to begin to catch you up; so I just thought I would start with plan B or somedays plan B(s) - PLURAL!

A couple of weeks ago, one of my Facebook friends posted a short 4 minute video that she had been asked to be in, so I decided to check it out. What I didn't know was that short four minutes would change my life! More specifically ~ the way I now view my life and the situations that surround us all every single day!
With all that life hands you, you can sometimes feel as if nothing is going right ~ that somehow along the way... you simply lost your way! For me lately, my faith has been a struggle as I continued to ask "Where is God in the midst of all this?" On "good days", I KNEW He was right there with me, but the other days....I just wasn't quite sure. Now, I have been a Christian since I was a young child, and to all-of-a-sudden find myself in my early 40's suddenly questioning His love for me and if He did love me what had I done that was so wrong to be going thru all this..............these have been some of the darkest days I have known ~ but His light is shining brighter than it has in a very long time! No, the circumstances really haven't changed, but my outlook is changing!
THANK YOU PETE WILSON for this amazing Godsend of a book!!

"What do you do with a shattered dream? Or an unmet expectation? What do you do when your life isn't turning out the way you thought it would? What do you do when you have to turn to Plan B? Learn how God often does His best work in our most hopeless situations."

Check out the following links for Plan B ~ a book by pete wilson. I wish I had the ability to give this book to every single person I know or will ever meet, but unless I win the lotto ~ that just isn't going to happen! :-) So, the next best thing I can do is to give you all the links and pray earnestly that it touches your heart as it has mine and I am sure the way Pete would want it to as well.

Here is the Facebook page for it.
Here is the Website for it.
Here is the link to purchase it from Amazon.
You can also find Pete HERE for his blog and HERE for his facebook page!

Blessings to you all!

Tribute to a Hula Momma

2010-02-12T21:31:00.000-06:00

The last time we had even close to this much snow was 6 years ago (to the day!!) and I was lying on the floor by a window @ my in-laws house watching Thad and his mom and dad build a Hula Momma of their own. It was the morning after our ICSI transfer. So today's snowman was built in honor/memory of that wonderful day six years ago that resulted in the births of our precious Maggie and Garrett!

Carried to the Table

2010-02-09T08:16:00.000-06:00

May you be CARRIED TO THE TABLE !!

WOW - is all I can say!

2010-02-09T08:09:00.000-06:00

The last of the HOSTAGE series...

http://www.lakepointe.org/Message/Hostage/020710.aspx

CLICK the link above and be BLESSED!!

be a HOSTAGE NO MORE!!

2010-02-01T19:50:00.001-06:00

I have been deeply touch by several friends' lives recently. There is so much hurting going on right now in their lives ~ and those are just the ones that have shared specifics. I know that there are many out there suffering in silence, as I too have been guilty of that. I hope that if you feel led ~ that you will watch the links posted and that the healing will begin in your lives too! Know that I am praying for each and everyone of you ~ known and unknown. I may not know what you are going thru - but the Lord knows your pains, struggles, hopes, dreams, sins and sorrows....give them to Him and be a HOSTAGE NO MORE!!
Week 1
http://www.lakepointe.org/Message/Hostage/011010.aspx
Week 2
http://www.lakepointe.org/Message/Hostage/011710.aspx
Week 3
http://www.lakepointe.org/Message/Hostage/012410.aspx
Week 4
http://www.lakepointe.org/Message/Hostage/013110.aspx

Before the Morning

2010-01-31T15:56:00.001-06:00

CLICK HERE <------ to view video
Lyrics:
Do you wonder why you have to
Feel the things that hurt you
If there’s a God who loves you where is He now
Maybe there are things you can’t see
And all those things are happening
To bring a better ending
Someday somehow you’ll see you’ll see

Would you dare would you dare to believe
That you still have a reason to sing
Cause the pain that you’ve been feeling
It can’t compare to the joy that’s coming
So hold on you gotta wait for the light
Press on and just fight the good fight
Cause the pain that you’ve been feeling
It’s just the dark before the morning

My friend you know how this all ends
You know where you’re going
You just don’t know how you’ll get there
So say a prayer

And hold on cause there’s good for those who love God
But life is not a snapshot
It might take a little time but you’ll see the bigger picture

Once you feel the weight of glory
All your pain will fade to memory

It’s just the hurt before the healing
Oh the pain that you’ve been feeling
It’s just the dark before the morning

they are His reward!

2010-01-29T10:15:00.002-06:00

Psalms 127:3 says it best: Children are a gift from God; they are His reward.

We do lots of creative play in our house and the imaginations NEVER cease to amaze and impress me!

We are artists, singers, cowboys, and the list goes on and on....

BUT rest assured it is NEVER boring around here!!

The Fog is Lifting

2010-01-29T09:37:00.002-06:00

If you have wondered why my postings have been so sporatic, I'll try to give a quick 25 word or less update.

18 months ago I woke up to a man that I had been married to for 11 1/2 years but thanks to an auto accident and serious brain trauma...we no longer knew each other. He lost 15 months of memories thereafter...but over the course of the last couple of months,specifically the last three weeks...the man I married and the father my kiddos knew has re-entered our lives! Hope abounds in the Chambers household! Please continue to pray, but KNOW that your prayers ARE being HEARD & ANSWERED! REJOICE!

Over the course of the next few months (gotta give myself a little time), I plan to take our family blog to a deeper level. I will reveal much of what we have lived thru and how God in his infinite wisdom has seen us thru. Our "world" was rocked to its very core, but to quote His words...

2 Corinthians 4:7-10
7 But we have this treasure in clay jars, so that it may be made clear that this extraordinary power belongs to God and does not come from us. 8 We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; 9 persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; 10 always carrying in the body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be made visible in our bodies.

I hope that you will be inspired and blessed by continuing to share in our journey!

I am in Awe, once again!

2010-01-29T09:30:00.004-06:00

Here is one of my baby girl's latest drawings! I don't know why I am constantly amazed at her talent...but for a five year old to look at something and "reproduce" it with such accuracy does just that!! This is another area that I constantly encourage with assessibility to a plethora of art supplies! Who knows ~ I may have the next Rembrandt, Monet, or Picasso living under my roof!

Storytime with Santa

2009-12-18T15:46:00.000-06:00

The Rockwall Library had the coolest event ever today! Santa was there to read to the kids, listen to requests, pose for pictures, oversee the making of Christmas crafts and even provided a snack of juice and cookies for all! It was so much fun and what memories for ME and the kids!!

To see pictures of this wonderful event --------> CLICK HERE!!

Misc. Random Pictures

2009-12-08T17:46:00.000-06:00

December has started of wonderfully and the kids are enjoying the holiday season.
Here are a few random PICTURES ( <----- to see click here) of our activites thus far!

My Cleaning Kiddos

2009-12-08T17:38:00.000-06:00

I love that the kids are still at an age where cleaning is FUN for them! They take such pride in helping run our house! Maybe if we keep instilling the value of their assistance, they won't go on strike in their teenage years!!

For Kids' Cleaning Pictures <---------- CLICK HERE

Halloween 2009

2009-12-08T14:48:00.000-06:00

Better late than never!! The kids were SO stinkin' cute this year and picked their own costumes as a chicken and a monkey! We did Trick or Treating on the (Rockwall) Square this year and the kids really had fun!
For Halloween PICTURES (Click on the word PICTURES)

Staining the Playset

2009-12-08T14:43:00.000-06:00

For PICTURES just click the word PICTURES

The kids playset was one of the last things Thad and I had chosen to get the kids BEFORE his accident! We could never afford such a thing now, and are SO THANKFUL that we have it!! This year was the year to MAINTAIN it, so staining was added to my list of " I have NEVER this before, but MUST LEARN quickly" !!! I think it took me about 12 hours of LABOR to get it done, but I was pretty proud of it and myself for completing such a task!

My Comedic Children

2009-10-14T17:34:00.004-05:00

The way my children grasp humor and sarcasm should never be underestimated! So much so that sometimes I REALLY have to watch what I say ~ as my humor is pretty sarcastic at times.
But here is a conversation that JUST took place.....

Garrett: "Mom~ I can hardly believe we are FIVE years old!!"
Me: "I know son, I was there and I can hardly believe it!"
Maggie: "You can say THAT again!"
Immense laughter followed ........................

Even when they are NOT funny ~ telling story length "knock knock" jokes....
the kids THINK they are the funniest kids on the planet ~ which to me....THEY ARE !

Our Science Corner

2009-10-14T10:22:00.000-05:00

Observing life cycles and the habits of our creatures is a HUGE hit at our house!

Flour Beetle Pupaes/Flour Beetle Adults

Garden Snails

Momma and Pappa Anole

Don't you wish YOU had one in the corner of YOUR kitchen?

(P.S. This is the 4th post in the last two days, so be sure to catch them all!)

Calling all Football Fans

2009-10-14T09:58:00.001-05:00

Just in time for Longhorn and Cowboys Fans ~

Check out this link for WONDERFUL Tailgate party food (AND a giveaway!!)

The Quick and Easy Tailgate Plan for a Cowboys Fan
(In our house ~ LONGHORNS, TOO!)
Brought to you by Swanson Chicken Traveling Tailgate

Recipes include:
Frank's RedHot Buffalo Chicken Dip
Monterey Cheese Chicken Quesadillas
and
Seven Ingredient Chili just to name a few!

I have already printed them up and added a few missing ingredients to my shopping list!
With the cooler weather we have been having, I can't wait to try all these WARM and yummy dishes and I hope you enjoy them too!

A Birthday Surprise from friends

2009-10-14T09:51:00.001-05:00

I am a little behind in my posting, as the kids' birthday was the 11th ~ but better late than never! The kids didn't have an "official party" this year, but the weekend before their birthday our friends, the Voss', surprised the kids and came over to celebrate a bit early!

Here's a shot with RuthAnn, Maggie and Karis!

Kamalyn, Karis, Maggie and Garrett enjoying birthday cupcakes!

YUMMY!

I didn't get any shots of the kids opening their gifts (or daddy, Mr. Ashley, or me for that matter!) because it happened WAY TOO FAST, but the next morning the kids went right to one of Maggie's gifts and made thank you notes for Karis and Kamalyn.

A HUGE THANK YOU to the Voss'

for making such a special effort to celebrate with the kids!

Maggie's Thank You note

Garrett's Thank You note

Created with LOVE!!

Ava and Miss Sarah

2009-10-13T13:05:00.000-05:00

The kids met the most adorable little girl at church a few months ago. Over the last few weeks they have been meeting her in the play area after church to enjoy each other's company! Since she is a couple of years younger than the kids they don't share the same Sunday School class..... but Miss Sarah (Ava's Mommy) and I found a way around that!!

A couple of weeks ago, Ava and Miss Sarah came to spend a FUN Saturday morning with us! Here are a few of the highlights!! We missed the next Sunday at church due to precautions with the Swine Flu and this last Sunday Ava had a cold...so the kids are all asking for one another! Maybe THIS Sunday the friends will be reunited ~ not just Garrett and Maggie with Ava, but Me with Miss Sarah as well!!

Ava watching Garrett, but LOVING the swing!

Maggie digging for worms (of course!!) to show Ava!

Ava blocking Garrett while Maggie takes a shot!

Can anyone say GIRL power?!

They all took turns SO nicely!

Not sure at what Garrett is gazing, but I think the next shot tell you who's won his heart!!

Do I see a marriage in the future?

Apparently the feeling is mutual! Ava was SO proud to be pushing Garrett on the swing!

All tuckered out! Taking a break, eating donuts, and watching the Care Bears!

WHAT A GLORIOUS Saturday with FRIENDS!!

Feel better Ava ~ WE MISS YOU!!

Trees and the Woodlands

2009-10-13T12:47:00.000-05:00

My mom ("Mame" to the kids) sent the kids a couple of books to add to our homeschooling collection. Immediately after opening the package from Mame, Maggie started picking out her favorite trees and Garrett began devouring the book on the Woodlands! They couldn't find enough bookmarks to mark their FAVORITE pages!

Maggie even had to make sure that she had colors that matched exactly so that her creation/documentation was as realistic as possible!

Garrett loved this page because it showed an Anole just like the three we have in our terrarium!

Here is one of Maggie's creations/documentation of her favorite trees depicting their leaves and berries/fruit or seeds! Thanks Mame for one of our lessons of the day!

The picture is in the mail!!

Five Year Flashback

2009-10-12T12:50:00.000-05:00

In honor of the kids' birthday yesterday ~ here are just a FEW of the 10,000+ pictures I have taken of the kids since they were born!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY GARRETT & MAGGIE!
MOMMY LOVES YOU TO THE MOON AND BACK!

36 weeks 6 days ~ on the way to the hospital ! I hope this picture doesn't freak anyone out.... This is one of my all-time favorite pictures that has been taken of me! I was (AM) so PROUD to be a Mommy!!

A few minutes old ....

Maggie (on left)
7 lbs 13.4 oz.
19 1/2 inches long
Garrett (on right)
6 lbs 2.2 oz
18 1/2 inches long

1 year pictures

1 year Christmas Picture

2 Year Longhorn Pictures (This started an annual tradition!)

2 Year Longhorn Pictures ~ how cute are we?!?

3 Year Longhorn Picture Collage.

Such a sweet little boy and already capturing hearts (mainly his Momma's!).

3 Year Longhorn Picture Collage

This is my spirited baby girl ~ sweet and fiesty all at the same time!

Four Year old Longhorn pictures ~ WOW what a difference a year makes!!

NO more "baby faces" !! SO grown up!

Four Year old Longhorn pictures ~ again.... WOW what a difference a year makes!! Maggie's hair is already longer at four than when I got my first hair cut at eight!! Garrett looks so stinkin big here! Just like a mini version of Daddy!

Four Year old Longhorn pictures...

I love it when they smile!! Their eyes just LIGHT up the room!

"Old Blue Eyes" (Frank Sinatra) has nothing on Garrett!!

That smile makes you wonder what she's thinking or been up to...BUT you might not want to know :-) !! I can't believe I have this beautiful brown eyed daughter!! WOW!!

THIS is my life!!

Jeremiah 29:11

Five Years Old

There is no seperating these two most days!! I hope it stays that way forever!

They are best friends and show such wonderful love and compassion for one another.

What a blessing they are to me!

Five year stats

Garrett 43 3/4 inches tall (75%) and 39 1/2 pounds (50%)

Maggie 43 inches tall (75%) and 34 pounds (25%)

Guess Whooooooooo Came to Breakfast

2009-10-02T09:34:00.000-05:00

Not long ago I posted an idea/recipe for Bear Bread, so this morning I thought I would share a breakfast idea that was in the October 2009 Issue of Your Big Backyard available from the National Wildlife Federation. I made a few variations, but the over all idea is the same.

Whooooooooo's Hungry?

Ours is made with a waffle, peanut butter, banana, chocolate covered raisins, and dried mango.

The kids saying "whoooooo, whoooooo" !!

After breakfast, the kids went in to make their own owls!

I'll leave you with our knock knock joke for the day ...

Knock Knock

Whooooooo's there?

Whooooooooo

Whooooooooo Who?

Are you an owl?????

Ok ~ so YOU didn't laugh, but my kids thought it was hilarious! :-)

The Beauty of His Creation

2009-09-30T08:52:00.000-05:00

It is too easy to get caught up in "the world" and our trials that sometimes we forget that the evidence of God, his miracles and His love for us that surrounds us daily! Here's one of my devotionals for today ~ may it bless you and help you see the beauty of His creations!

Blessings,
Cyn
Daily Devotional by Max Lucado
“the One who came still comes and the One who spoke still speaks”
September 30
God’s Mighty Hand

Through his power all things were made--things in heaven and on earth, things seen and unseen.
Colossians 1:16 (NCV)

With one decision, history began. Existence became measurable.
Out of nothing came light.
Out of light came day.
Then came sky....and earth.
And on this earth? A mighty hand went to work.
Canyons were carved. Oceans were dug. Mountains erupted out of flatlands. Stars were flung. A universe sparkled.
Look to the canyons to see the Creator's splendor. Touch the flowers and see his delicacy. Listen to the thunder and hear his power....
Today you will encounter God's creation. When you see the beauty around you, let each detail remind you to lift your head in praise. Express your appreciation for God's creation. Encourage others to see the beauty of his creation.

Moments that take your breath away

2009-09-28T10:43:00.001-05:00

Again, this is not a particularly flattering picture of me, but I couldn't be happier that I was finally "captured" on film doing something

I TOTALLY love!

Snuggling with the kids and feeling the warmth of their love is PRICELESS!

THANKS Daddy for catching it on film!

This is one of my new favorite pictures!!

p.s. this is the 6th post I have done today

(so be sure to catch them all).
I am finally caught up on pictures/postings!!
WAHOOOOOOOOO!!

Daddy's favorite...now a favorite of the kids!

2009-09-28T10:36:00.000-05:00

Thad's favorite book as a child was Go Dogs Go, and he has read it to them since they were still in rockers/bouncy seats! It is wonderful to see the enthusiam that he had as a boy come thru each time he picks up that particular book......

Now the kids can READ it to him, not just recite it from memorization!!

They were so HAPPY to be reading to Daddy!!

Our reading, writing and phonics lessons

2009-09-28T10:23:00.000-05:00

I am having a wonderful time teaching the kids to read! It gives them such an enormous amount of pride and accomplishment. With each "lesson" they beg for more and can't wait to see what we are doing next!

To see the JOY it brings and SMILES on their faces.....well that's the best reward ever!!!

Writing our sounds

Such a proud Little Man!

My Baby Angel loves to write her sounds!

Posing with their progress!

Reading their words from the day's lesson!

PLAYTIME is the BEST!!

2009-09-28T10:08:00.000-05:00

A Cowboy walking His Princess

Continuing on their journey

Going "shopping" on a rainy day!

Their creativity and SMILES are the best!

Can't you just feel their love and enthusiasm?!

My Inner Child

2009-09-28T09:58:00.000-05:00

This is not a particularly flattering picture of me, but Thad thought it was funny that he caught me "playing" in the sandbox! Actually I was digging for dinos to help the kids pick up! But it makes for a cute picture about the KID in all of us!! Have you gotten in touch with your inner child lately? What are they telling you?

A Beautiful Butterfly

2009-09-28T09:52:00.000-05:00

Butterflies are a favorite around here and the other day there was a beautiful butterfly on the deck. After it had been in the same spot "walking" not flying around for over an hour, I decided to lift him to my hand and bring him in for the kids to see. If you look closely, you'll see he only has four legs, not six. He did not look injured, but am curious how this came to be. I allowed the kids to view him and then placed him back on a brick pillar by the front door. After about 45 minutes there, he did fly away. So, that at least answered our questions as to that possibility!

The bunny is back!

2009-09-28T09:36:00.000-05:00

With all the rain lately, we had not seen our resident bunny. We are not sure where he "camped out" during the storms, but are quite overjoyed that he/she is still alive and had decided to rejoin our family! Since his return, he has been spending time in the backyard and under the deck. For a "wild" animal he is quite tame (no petting), but doesn't seem to mind being watched and observed by us or the kids (even while they are playing or running around the back yard)!

Cooper's Story ~ PLEASE PRAY!

2009-09-25T10:45:00.001-05:00

This is a VERY condensed version of Cooper's Story (written quickly by his Mommy ~ as he was recovering from his latest EUA). I asked her specifically for it as I wanted to place Cooper on my blog to help spread the word and request prayers for this precious little boy and friend!

Emma, Maggie, Rylee, Garrett & Cooper in back

Below is Tracy's note to me:

Basically my sister-in-law was diagnosed with bi-lateral retinoblastoma at the age of 1.5 (she is 11 now). When retino is bi-lat it is normally hereditary. So since my kids' birth we have been having their eyes examined every few months.

At the age of three, Cooper started turning his head when he watched tv. Luckily he had to meet with the school nurse the next day for a vision screening. During that screening, he stated he couldn't see out of his left eye. Doctor after doctor said they saw little shadows but it was nothing... my gut says you don't just one day lose your vision in one eye. Finally in Feb 08, I went to an eye specialist. He saw the spot and sent us to a retina specialist immediately. They did an EUA saw the spot but said it was not showing typical signs of retinoblastoma so he wanted to do an EUA every other month for awhile to watch it...after 6 months of not haing a diagnosis or treatment we went to an amazing eye oncology specialist in Philly. After 8 hours of torture (exams, photos, etc), she decided she wanted to do an EUA in two days. She came to conclusion that it was medulloepithelioma.... a very very rare cancer. There is like one, maybe two articles written on it. We did cryotherapy (they put needles in his eye and try and freeze the tumor with a gas) Two months later we did another session in Texas with our retina specialist. Dec 10 we went back to Philly.... the doctor tells us the cancer is dead, but does one more "good luck" cryo. She told us to follow up with our Texas doc in four months for an EUA. Went for 4 month ck... cancer is back... this cancer.... if one cell is alive it will come back.

At the four month ck, we were told it was back. We have had treatment every two months since. When we moved back to California, we met up with and awesome eye doc. He says Cooper now shows signs of both, that is the story in a nut shell....

Maggie's Get Well Picture of Cooper!!

His latest EUA was 09/24/09

UPDATE: Cooper's next EUA is November 19th, so be sure to add that to your calendar so you can be praying specifically on that day as well.

THANKS!!

Meal Worms to Flour Beetles

2009-09-23T14:08:00.004-05:00

Adding the Meal Worms to our Mason Jar

Creating their documentation for the life cycle of a Flour Beetle

Maggie getting a closer look to make sure they matched her picture!

We started our meal worms, but quickly had to re-do them as the jar had too much moisture and the meal turned moldy. We re-did our jar added more mealworms (Larvaes) on September 3rd, then on September 15th we had our first batch of (four) Pupaes. We are anxiously awaiting to see if we have any adults in the next few days. I cannot believe I am actually "raising" bugs in my home no matter how "contained" they are.
Guess I really will do anything for my kiddos! :-)

UPDATE:

As of today 09-24-09 we have 2 adults and 2 more morphing from pupae to adult.

As of 10-01-09 we now have 7 adults and have transferred them to their owl habitat to see if they lay eggs to complete our life cycle.

Cool stuff!!

BUBBLES

2009-09-23T13:26:00.001-05:00

A few weeks ago when the kids had been sick for a week and cooped up because of the rain, they needed a little extra dose of fun.

So what came to mind but......BUBBLES!!

A litle suds + jacuzzi jets = MOUNTAINS of bubbles and FUN!!

You can still see the red "raw" noses from all the blowing,

but the SMILES this brought to their faces shone just a bit brighter to me!!!

btw ~ this is my fourth post today...so keep scrolling down! :-)

What I do best

2009-09-23T13:16:00.000-05:00

A week or two ago now, the kids and I were having a discussion about everyone's role in our family and how important each one of us are. It was really hard for them to grasp how much they did to contribute until we made a visual reminder for them.

First I had them help me come up with a list of seven things that they could do.

Then I wrote the sentences out and then they each drew one illustration of themselves in which they were completeing that task. We finished by placing it on a door in the hall by their bedroms so it is a constant reminder, especially when they doubt they can do something. When that happens, we go to the wall, look at what they CAN do and remind them that they weren't always able to do things either. It takes practice and persistance to accomplish their tasks and NOT expecting "perfection" right off the bat!

Maggie's Artwork

2009-09-23T13:05:00.001-05:00

Maggie will spend HOURS a day (and about 40 sheets of paper) drawing, cutting, and creating anything from pop up books to masks, birdie wings to recreations of her animals.

This is a bunny rabbit she drew for me last week and thought I would share some of her creativity with you!

I always wanted to write a children's book...maybe now I have found my illustrator!

Pajama Day, a lesson in Geography,

2009-09-23T12:57:00.000-05:00

but most of all FUN!!!

Homeschooling has truly turned out to be a HUGE blessing to all of us!

The kids are thriving and so am I!!

"I learned to read, write, and work with numbers in school, but I did not really want to learn until I began teaching my own children. One of the benefits of home education that I did not expect, but have come to appreciate, has been how much I have learned in the process of teaching my children."

Quote from Lyndsay Lambert

Thank you Lyndsay! I couldn't have said it better myself!

Earth Wormery

2009-09-22T17:49:00.000-05:00

Getting Started

Soil, Peat Moss, Sand, and Dried Leaves

Jars layered and ready for worms!!

Maggie and her worms!!

Such a girlie tomboy!!

Garrett showing off his worms!

Wormeries are complete!

Didgging for MORE worms ~ JUST FOR FUN!!!

In honor of our wormeries, the kids had worm dirt (crushed Oreos),

vanilla ice cream and gummy worms for dessert one night!

It doesn't take much to be "The Coolest Mom in the World" around our house, and I LOVE it!!

I see broken bones in my future!!!

2009-09-14T08:48:00.000-05:00

Some pictures need absolutely NO explanation......

these would be a few that fit in that catagory!

BEAR BREAD

2009-09-10T13:06:00.009-05:00

Being without a computer for so long, I have a TON of pictures to post, so be sure to check back over the next few days as I try to catch up! I think I have about ten posts worth of pictures, stories, and notes to add, so........ here goes!!

The kids get Highlights magazine each month and one of their favorite pages is the Recipe section! Here's one we tried last month!

BEAR BREAD!

Assembled bears and their makers!

Passing the time with a game of Chutes and Ladders while the bread rises!

They have risen and are ready to bake!

The PROUD bakers with their bread!!

No hot FRESH bread would be complete without Butter and Honey!

YUMMY!!!

We return

2009-09-09T07:57:00.000-05:00

to the world of cyberspace!! After the last two months of being with and without a computer ~ first the hard drive then the motherboard.... I am finally in the process of rebuilding my files and setting up the computer again! To say that I DISLIKE Dell and it's products and customer service would be an understatement ~ however.... the good news is you can once again log on to check us out!
Check back in the next few days to see the updates that I will be adding as time allows!
Thank you for being faithful in praying for our family and taking an active interest in our lives!
We are blessed by it and feel the power of the Lord working in our lives thru each and every one of you!

Jeremiah 29:11 (New International Version)

11 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Fun with Friends!!!

2009-08-17T09:14:00.000-05:00

One of the hardest things about moving over to Rockwall is that our friends are all in the Mid-Cities area.

Not logistically that far, but with crazy city (Dallas) traffic and scheduling around those that work, those that don't, naps, and just life in general... we have had limited visitors :-( !! HOWEVER, this weekend, we had some good friends come over with their girls (also friends!!) and hang out for a few hours! It was wonderfully fun, and although it had been awhile since the kids all saw each other ~ they got on famously well!!!

Here are a few of the shots I grabbed.

Carson and Garrett Jordan and Maggie

"Finger" painting in the pools..... it's more like body painting around here!

So much fun and laughter!

And the painting continues.......

Garrett taught Jordan to play WALL-E on their Leapster while Carson and Maggie colored!

Lunchtime and the HAPPY FOURSOME!

Can't wait for their next visit!

Bob and Angelina come to visit

2009-08-14T10:47:00.000-05:00

The kids made a couple more puppets today. I traced the patterns, but they cut them all out and assembled the pieces! Once completed, they promply started putting on puppet shows for each other!

Too cute and oh so creative are my two!

Sock Puppets

2009-08-14T10:35:00.000-05:00

The kids made their first sock puppets a couple of days ago and even though we did them "backwards", they LOVE them!! Meet Bubblegum the Elephant and Cherry (yes that's what Garrett named the boy).

Momma

2009-08-14T10:32:00.000-05:00

Our backyard has a plethora of these adorable green things, so we even have a Momma and a Poppa living in a terrarium inside. Can you see Momma? Her name is appropriately "Momma" as she has started laying eggs. Two a couple of weeks ago and she's ready to "pop" again any day now! Wahoo ~ I am a grandma to lizards! Who would have thought?!?!?

Truly Scrumptious

2009-08-14T10:27:00.000-05:00

A couple of weeks ago, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang was on tv and we recorded it to save for the kids. Afterall, it was one of my most favorites as a child and I wanted to start our next generation on this wonderful classic! Ever since she saw it....Maggie has dressed up as Truly ~ complete with blue dress and white tea party hat!

And yes, I even let her run errands with me like this! WHY NOT?!?!!? Garrett plays like he's Professor Potts ~ not much dress up to it ~ but completely predictable as he has always been "my inventor"!

Toon Family Reunion 2009

2009-08-10T16:28:00.000-05:00

We enjoyed a weekend get-away this past weekend with Thad's parents at Petit Jean State Park in Morrillton, Arkansas. Jody's (Thad's mom's) family has been having these reunions the first full weekend of August for over forty years! We have missed the last two because of Thad's job and then last year it was right after his accident. It felt wonderful to get away for a couple of days and reimmerse ourselves in nothing but family gathered for the sole purpose of just seeing each other!

Here are a few pictures, but if you want to see the slideshow of all of them ~ just click here!

The scenery was amazing and the petting zoo was probably the highlight of the adventures for the kids! Next year they'll be old enough for paddleboats on the lake and then in a year or two... trail rides in the mountains! WONDERFUL memories!

Memorial Day and a Flashback

2009-05-26T11:19:00.005-05:00

Sunday Morning before Church

May 24, 2009

FLASHBACK

May 2008

They are growing and blossoming by leaps and bounds,

but they'll forever be my "babies"!!

Memorial Day Weekend 2009

What a Poser!

2009-05-23T20:32:00.005-05:00

This is a daily look around our house!

She is ALL girly inside and a girly tomboy outside!

Guess she gets more and more like me everyday! YIKES!

Sweetheart and Baby Angel

2009-05-23T20:30:00.003-05:00

Moments like this make my heart melt!

My New Hairdo!

2009-05-23T20:23:00.004-05:00

The kids got a hold of me the other night right before bed and played beauty shop using a half dozen of the clips I had made for Maggie's Little Ponies!

Maggie also insisted I put her sunglasses on before snapping a shot of it all!

Classy Look, huh?!

A jewelry designer in the making

2009-05-23T20:17:00.004-05:00

Maggie working out her designs!

I am not so sure that Garrett will be happy with me showing these pictures to his future bride someday, but the other day he seemed perfectly content being Maggie's model for all the jewelry she was making!

Emily Post would be proud! :-)

2009-05-23T20:07:00.004-05:00

Cotton Candy and Maggie Mae

Maggie loves having tea parties for her animals, but it seems that I almost never capture them.

This day I caught a fairly "tame" party. Some days they involve half the animals she has plus an elaborate setting of the table complete with cloth napkins! She'd definitely do Emily Post proud!

Malachi 3:3

2009-05-22T10:41:00.005-05:00

The world around us is changing daily and we at the Chambers' Household are no strangers to change! The last 10+ months have rocked us to the core and at times I have dug in my heels, shouted to the Heavens, cursed, prayed, rejoiced, praised, questioned, defied, and then seemingly started that process all over again (often times in the same day/HOUR!!).

But is your life so different from mine? I bet not!! We may not be sharing the same struggle, but it is a struggle nonetheless.

I have friends that are fighting/suffering from cancer, one that has a child battling cancer, have many (make that ~ MANY) that have lost jobs (or their spouses have), have some that seem on the brink of divorce, and some that haven't claimed Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. See we are all battling something......

Yesterday just after I had been on the phone with a friend of mine (a true rarity for us ~ as she homeschools all four of her children and the three older boys all play select ball) praising God for our new church home and discussing many of the changes we have experienced lately.....
she forwarded me this email.

"Malachi 3:3: He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver.
This verse puzzled some women in a Bible study and they wondered what this statement meant about the character and nature of God.
One of the women offered to find out the process of refining silver and get back to the group at their next Bible Study.
That week, the woman called a silversmith and made an appointment to watch him at work. She didn't mention anything about the reason for her interest beyond her curiosity about the process of refining Silver.
As she watched the silversmith, he held a piece of silver over the fire and let it heat up. He explained that in refining silver, one needed to hold the silver in the middle of the fire where the flames were hottest as to burn away all the impurities.
The woman thought about God holding us in such a hot spot; then she thought again about the verse that says: 'He sits as a refiner and purifier of silver.' She asked the silversmith if it was true that he had to sit there in front of the fire the whole time.
The man answered that yes, he not only had to sit there holding the silver, but he had to keep his eyes on the silver the entire time it was in the fire. If the silver was left a moment too long in the flames, it would be destroyed.
The woman was silent for a moment. Then she asked the silversmith, 'How do you know when the silver is fully refined?'
He smiled at her and answered, 'Oh, that's easy -- when I see my image in it.'
If today you are feeling the heat of the fire, remember that God has his eye on you and will keep watching you until He sees His image in you."

Blessings to you and thank you for continuing to share in our journey!

Praying for our Children

2009-05-22T10:32:00.004-05:00

This are not original to me. I cannot remember where I first came across this; but there is accrediation noted at the bottom.
I just loved that there was a scripture reference (I can always use it in a bible study later), a short - yet VERY SPECIFIC prayer for each day and that it covered a different virtue for my children everyday during the month. I hope you enjoying using it and praying for the blessings (children) you have!!

P.S. I just uploaded a bunch of misc. pictures from the past couple of weeks, so check back over the weekend and hopefully I will have gotten caught up!

Zoboomafoo

2009-05-21T13:39:00.000-05:00

Now, before you think I am saying some swear word in a foreign language ~ let me assure you that I am NOT!! Zoboomafoo is the kids most favorite show in the whole world right now! Click on Zoboomafoo to hear the theme song! It's quite addicting (or at least WE think so in our house)!! And what a wonderful way to kick off our Adventures in the Rainforest . I cannot tell you how excited I am to be teaching my children! I hope you'll share some of that joy whether you are homeschooling your children or just looking for fun additional supplements to their current school's curriculum. There are printable pages, recipes, masking making ideas, and Karaoke just to name a few!!

Have a great day!

Homeschooling Resources (FOR FREE)

2009-05-20T07:35:00.001-05:00

This last week, I had a wonderful LIFETIME friend forward me an email for FREE (YES FREE) homeschooling ideas! It is SO cool! You can go to Diane's website and sign up for free newsletters that you can receive each day. Each day comes with a recommend website to enrich your curriculum!
Here's an example from a few days ago, plus once you sign up you can also go thru all her archives of previous sites listed!

Recommended Website: Mapsorama.com

http://www.mapsorama.com/
ClickScholar Melissa suggested this website that offers free world and historic maps created over a vast timeline on a wide variety of topics. Depending on the cartographer who created the map, as well as the era the map was drawn, you'll see remarkable artistry and fascinating information depicted in this stunning collection. When you get to the site you'll see the featured maps of the day and next to it a simple menu of
map categories including:
*World Maps - View maps by early explorers, and maps depicting ocean currents, world time lines, topography, politics, and very unusual maps such as the distribution of cannibalism in the 19th century!
*Europe Maps - Get maps of European countries and major European cities. Find national parks and monuments. Explore satellite maps, nautical maps, maps depicting the invasion of the Roman Empire, maps of languages spoken in European countries, and there are even maps of nuclear power plants in Europe.
*Asia Maps - Explore maps of the countries of Asia, including major cities, landmarks, historic events, maps of medieval commerce and modern tourism.
*Africa Maps - Discover maps of the countries, provinces, and cities in Africa. See maps depicting political regimes, official languages in Africa, topography, and thematic maps as well.
*Australia Maps - See satellite and topographic maps of the regions and cities of Australia. Don't miss the very first map of Australia drawn in 1547.
*North America Maps - See maps of Canada, Mexico, the U.S., Cuba and Jamaica including major regions and cities. There are even very specific maps showing, for example, the extermination of bison by the end of the 19th century, slavery and emancipation in the U.S., the Kennedy Space Center, and even railways in Cuba.
*South America Maps - View a variety of historic maps of the countries of South America including unusual maps such as a map of the city walls of Lima, Peru in the 17th century.
*Antarctica Maps - Compare ancient maps to satellite images of today.
*Celestial Maps - Enjoy an artistic rendering of the heavens made by Dutch cartographer Frederik de Wit in the 17th century.
Use the search tool to find maps of interest. You may also enjoy looking at the "Popular Maps" featured in a sidebar menu on the home page. Fascinating stuff! :)

Here's another one........
Recommended Website:
The Prince's Rainforest Project for Schools: Sounds of the Rainforest
http://www.homefires.com/click?rfsounds

And another....
Recommended Website:

File Folder Heaven
http://www.filefolderheaven.com/files.html
Age Range: 3-7 (Grades PreK-2, and for Special Needs as well)
For those of you who (like me) were/are unfamiliar with the term "File Folder Activities" - it is a clever method for organizing games and learning materials so that kids can easily access them. For example: You print out game worksheets and glue them onto a sturdy file folder. Then, you print out the game pieces, cut them apart, and laminate them. Finally, you apply Velcro so that the game pieces will stick to the worksheets. It's do-it-yourself math games and manipulatives.

Hope you like this website as much as I do!
HAPPY LEARNING!

The SPLAT Experience

2009-05-20T07:17:00.000-05:00

If you have never seen this website, check it out!
It is simply amazing and may you be blessed by it!

Mother's Day Cards & A COOL tip for painting

2009-05-06T12:10:00.005-05:00

We have tons of art supplies around our house, so instead of purchasing store bought cards for Mother's Day... I thought we would paint them! EVEN ME! I will go back and add a personal note to the back of it once it is dry. (One SURE to make my mommy cry!)
But the main reason I wanted to add this post was to show you the COOLEST idea ever for storing/holding poster paints! They come in jars and before now, I would always pour bits into tupperware bowls......but it was still always too much and I'd end up washing the bowls out and wasting tons of paint that wasn't used!

Well..................NO MORE!!!
Look at this.........for about $1.00 or less at Wal-Mart you can pick up a 7 day pill case and Voi'la ~ instant paint holder! It takes very little paint and then what isn't used can be stored when the lids are snapped shut!

COOL, HUH?!?!?

NO this was NOT an "original" thought. Thanks for thinking that, tho!! :-)

I found it in a magazine from another mom who shared a "Mommy Tip" from her house.

From her house to ours and hopefully to yours!

Sticker Rewards

2009-05-06T09:11:00.003-05:00

This morning, I logged on to one of my "mommy boards" and read this.....
KLWALW532 · Pass a Note!
Posted 5/5/09I'm new here! Glad to have found this group.
My 2.5 year old is throwing MAJOR fits in the morning when she has to get ready for daycare/sitters, after work when I bring her home, and at night before bed. She just started these about 1 week ago. DH and I talked about doing a behavior chart and she can earn so many stickers a week to earn a reward. She is young, but I DO think she will understand this concept. I also think we can use it as a deterrent..."Stop yelling or you will not get your sticker."
Anyone else try one of these? how did it work?
Thanks!

I posted a reply and thought I would post it here and see what you thought about what we do and welcome comments for what works for you, too!
Here's my post:
My kids (boy/girl twins) are 4 1/2, but we have used stickers for a couple of years now for all sorts of rewards! A simple sticker can work wonders!! They worked SO well infact that we had to get a "sticker journal"! They loved getting them so much that they would almost throw a fit when the sticky wore off when placed on hands or clothing and they had to be thrown away! Simple solution..... bought a fun $1.00 mini spiral notebook at the store and now they can keep every sticker they receive and go back and look at them anytime they want! We have used them for
1. being extra good
2. learning to wipe their own bottom
3. playng nicely together
4. exhibiting extraordinary behavior (w/out being asked!! ) helping the other learn/pratice a new task
5. staying in bed all night
The possibilities are ENDLESS!!
We use the stickers more for behavioral issues/rewards and have now implemented 2-quarters per day per child for doing 5 chores.....
1. making their bed
2. getting dressed
3. picking up their toys (MOMMA doesn't have to do it anymore!!!)
4. taking their dishes to the sink/counter after meals
5. brushing their teeth

They can also earn extra quarters for
1. folding towels/putting their laundry (undies/socks/play clothes away ~ anything that doesn't hang)
2. putting their dishes away (in a bottom cabinet they can reach) when I empty the dishwasher
3. carrying in the groceries
4. helping fill the recycle bin
Like I said, the possibilities are endless!!

I hope this helps and I hope you are encouraged to challenge your little one into better behavior!! Good Luck!!

If you like this post, I encourage you to leave a comment or better yet, make your own post and link it back to this one sharing your ideas and what works at your house!!
Blessings!

Life is Good

2009-04-25T17:12:00.004-05:00

First....can you believe this is my FOURTH post today?!?!?!

I KNOW it's been FOREVER since I posted that much....

Life has just been CRAZY, and there is so much going on that I CAN'T post about ~ well, cuz this IS the internet!!

Anyway ~ for my wonderful blogger buddies (FRIENDS) thank you for your continued prayers and faithfullness during this time!!

I can tell you that we have found a wonderful church and I LOVE IT!!!

So do the kids!! And the best part is I can actually pay attention to the service knowing they are in great care and having a wonderful time!

The last few weeks have been a catalyst for many changes. However as with the last MANY months, I am unsure of the outcome or if the direction will once again change.

I would ask that you keep our family in your prayers this week as we prepare for two pretty significant events/trials. I cannot give specifics, but the Lord knows our needs, wants and desires and if they are in accordance to His Will ~ then Thy Will be Done, Father!

Thanks for letting me catch up a bit with you!

Blessings and Love!!

My American Idols

2009-04-25T17:11:00.001-05:00

The other night after the kids' showers, I was checking the DVR to see if American Idol (results show) was recording. As the kids came around the corner to see what I was doing (they do not watch "regular" tv), they RAN for their microphones! KC (minus the Sunshine Band) was singing and I just couldn't stop smiling and laughing at them!! I even replayed it to let them do it again... (so I could grab the camera!!!) !!!!

For all my "Idol Friends" out there, I hope this made you smile!

National Library Week

2009-04-25T16:47:00.004-05:00

Last week after storytime the kids decided they wanted to enter a drawing in the celebration of National Library Week. Out of ALL the MANY books they had to choose from at home, they both chose one of their bible books.

Maggie drew From the Book of Psalms ~ The Lord is my Shepherd.

And Garrett chose to illustrate the Story of Baby Moses.

Soccer Pictures

2009-04-25T16:44:00.000-05:00

Got the kids' pictures at their game this morning!

And Garrett scored the ONLY goal in the whole game with GRANDMA AND GRANDPA there to see the whole thing!! It was a wonderful morning!

Springtime Springtime....Spring is in the Air

2009-04-17T13:51:00.000-05:00

There is nothing like Springtime in Texas ~ One day it's 80 degrees and sunny and the next it's 46 and cloudy. Today it's 55 degrees and POURING down rain!!

BUT that doesn't keep the sun from shining indoors!!

The kids spent the entire morning finishing up their garden of flowers, making some buzzing bees to help with pollination, and created the first of their "eggs-traordinary" farm animals!

Supplies Needed for Springtime FUN........Construction paper, colored popcicle sticks, recycled/repurposed box (ours was an old donut box) some tissue paper, pipe cleaners, glue sticks, and your imagination!!!

Next ~ make up some lyrics about your creations (kids are SO easy to please!!)

and you have Springtime (a SUNNY TIME) inside ~ despite what the weather outside is!

EGGS - traordinary Farm Animals!!!

What better way to use (recycle/reuse) those left over plastic eggs?!?!?!

We used chenille sticks (pipe cleaners), felt pieces, some colored pom poms

and a sharpie to create these little cuties!

Which one will YOU make first?

I have missed posting so much lately ~ check back as I hope to catch up a bit over the weekend!

Much love and blessings ~

2009-04-06T22:10:00.001-05:00

2009-04-06T21:46:00.001-05:00

JOHN SILLS

2009-03-10T11:17:00.005-05:00

Please keep Alicia and Sydnee in your prayers. I know that they will need an abundance of prayers for strength and comfort during the days (months) ahead as a precious hubby, friend and daddy went to be with God (& their babies Raynee & Jack) yesterday morning.

Thank you for supporting and praying for this dear family.
Blessings to yours,
Cyn

This is Alicia's last email..........

Sent: Monday, March 09, 2009 11:43 PM

To:

Subject: Johnny passed away at 4:50 this morning
I am sorry that I could send out an email until now. It has been a whirlwind kind of day as you would imagine. Johnny went to heaven as of 4:50am this morning. Even though I lost my husband and best friend I can't explain how peaceful it was when he passed. It just poured over me. I want to tell you all some great things that happened in the last few days before his passing but I am afraid that it is just to fresh for me. But I promise to share with you all one day soon.

Thank you all for the never-ended thoughts and prayers. Your support meant the world to us. Your friend in Christ, Alicia

It was 80 degrees today!

2009-03-08T21:21:00.001-05:00

And the kids played outside for 2 1/2 hours after their nap!

It was GREAT MESSY FUN!!!

We are getting settled in, so hopefully ~ the posts will be a bit more frequent than once a month!! :-)

Sorry It's been SO long!!

2009-02-05T13:32:00.040-06:00

WOW ~ has it really been over a MONTH since my last post?! Boy it has been crazy!!!! We have gone thru 7 houses since then! I mean the kind you find, pay fees for, pay deposits on, and then find things like MAJOR gas leaks.....bait and switch agreements on prices ~ among other things! It has been crazy and stressful !! We have managed to find some time to spend together outside on the few warm days we have had recently and it did WONDERS for my SOUL!!! Garrett is doing much better now that the pneumonia has cleared and he is on daily QVAR for Asthma and Nasonex for the allergies. Maggie has had a UTI, but now it is more of behavioral issue likely caused by stress. They have both developed some sleep and behavioral issues related to the stresses/situations we are all going thru. It requires more time and attention on my part, but that is the role I was given as their mother and I do the best to comfort them thru it all. Thad has not been released to work and it may be quite some time before he is. He suffers from post traumatic stress disorder, post concussion syndrome and major depressive disorder ~ all in addition to the disk and muscular issues resulting from his accident. We are working with three different teams of attorneys right now, but have been told it can take two years to reach a settlement of any kind. We take it day by day and sometimes hour by hour, or minute to minute. We have great days and we have some really rough ones ~ some times both in the same day, hour or minute! The one thing that has reassured me thru all of this is that we have a MIGHTY God who NEVER let's us go! The last 7 months have been some of the roughest of my life and I have 2 little ones who depend on me to provide normalcy to keep things going. I stay tired most days and some days I feel like I am drowning, but each day dawns and I find renewed hope that we are all still together. The rest will work itself out in time. God never promised us life would be easy, and we are a living testament to that, but by His grace and mercy we are allowed to live each day to better understand His relationship with us and how very much He loves us! Going 7 months with NO INCOME has devastated us financially, emotionally, and at times spiritually. I will not tell you it has been easy, but I do have a greater peace about things these days. We will be moving to Rockwall in the next few days to allow us to be closer to Thad's parents who live in northeast Dallas. I am hoping the move will be a catalyst for many things improving, but only time will tell. I won't be on the computer much over the next few days as I prepare us to move, but I'll try to be better about staying in touch. Thank you for your continued thoughts and prayers! Much love and blessings to you all!!

"I Got You, Babe!!"

The "Virgin Maggie" and "Baby Panda"

Learning "TWO-gether" is FUN!!

The love they share is AMAZING and such a JOY to behold!

Refiner's Fire

2009-01-02T08:12:00.000-06:00

Lose My Soul

2009-01-02T08:10:00.000-06:00

Diagnosis...............

2009-01-01T20:36:00.006-06:00

About a month ago, Garrett became sick (out of the blue) and was being treated with steroids (Orapred) and breathing treatments every three hours round the clock for several days. We had a follow up visit with our ~~pediatrician~~ previous pediatrician, who diagnosed him with Asthma.

We have since changed pediatricians, had our well check, had all our immunizations (just after finishing the steroids) and got a clean bill of health. Our new doctor did mention that he wanted to keep an eye on Garrett's asthma and how often he had these same symptoms! Fast forward two weeks and starting this past Monday, Garrett was sick again (OUT OF THE BLUE!!). I mean he goes from NO symptoms to a raging fever and choking for air in all of about 3 hours. Anyway....as luck would have it when I got him in to the doctor on Tuesday, his fever had subsided and there was no wheezing. Damn it ~ I HATE it when that happens!!! I feel like such a dork, but the Doc said his chest sounded tight and prescribed two different inhalers for us to try. Again, as "Lady Luck" would have it....he got WORSE about three hours after we left the doctor's office. Keep smiling, right?! What else am I gonna do? I get his prescriptions filled, use those plus the nebulizer every 2 to 3 hours around the clock, plus over the counter meds and he does nothing but get worse. He hasn't slept in 2 days nor me in three, unless you count the 45 minutes we got when I finally mananged to prop him up in a beanbag at 6:45 this morning and he slept until 7:30 before his coughing wouldn't let him rest anymore. I was alternating using the inhalers and the nebulizer every two hours this morning trying to get him some relief, but when I heard that wheezing when he got up from him nap, I called the doctor (nurse on call). After I gave her all the facts, she ask which ER I was taking him to so she could send the referral. She wanted him checked for pneumonia. WHAT?!?!OK..........let me get dressed and off we go! But surely not!! Again his symptoms "ran for the hills" as soon as I got him in front of a doctor, but the doctor wanted x-rays because those don't lie............................

A very quick 2 hours later (THANK YOU GOD!!!) I was driving him home and on my way to get his prescriptions! Wahoo another round of Orapred and Antibiotics!! Can't you just ~~hear the~~ read the sarcasm in my voice? Orapred turns my loving, tender, gentle incredibly kind little man into a RAGING lunatic who is TOTALLY COMBATIVE and insatiably hungry 24/7 ! (Want to take him for the next 5 days?!) But, it does help him to BREATHE....so who am I to argue?!?!?! Check back in a couple of days and I'll let you know who's winning this round ~ me or Garrett. :-)

Diagnosis: Pneumonia and Atelectasis

Poor little dude!