tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32129247170300349572024-03-26T02:02:38.321-07:00Just a Peek...I wanted to have a place where friends and family can keep up with what is happening with our family. This blog will give you just a peek into our lives.~Abbey~http://www.blogger.com/profile/09008782613748167856noreply@blogger.comBlogger256125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212924717030034957.post-9287397043711917472013-08-06T05:33:00.003-07:002013-08-06T05:33:39.274-07:00 I love my car even if you don't.I guess because of the car we drive we are labeled. I'm not totally sure what label is given. I think it is different for every time someone says something.<br />
We are pointed at by others and laughed at.<br />
Comments never cease to amaze me...<br />
"have you ever heard of a mini-van?"<br />
"I'm sure you are trying to make extra money, let me give you my business card."<br />
"Your kids must be expensive- how many DO you have?"<br />
"At least you drive a car that it doesn't matter if someone spills in or something happens to it."<br />
<br />
*I wonder if these same people walk up to people who wear "less than me" clothing?* <br />
<br />I am really amazed at how materialistic our world is...not just in secular circles but in Christian circles as well. People place so much of your value in what you have. You are treated as "less than" by the grocery clerk, clothing store personnel, or restauranteur.<br />
But WHY are you surprised? Why am I? Look around. Everything in our society says you belong to one of two groups; the Haves and the Have nots. <br />Much like racism in a lot of ways. It's stereotyping. It's judgmental. It's snobby. It's degrading. It is telling my kids who know no different that they are not good enough for something more. THAT my friends, is the message you give to my kids.<br />
<br />I have people tell me "I would never drive that. I would tell my husband to get me something else."<br />
<br />
Here is the facts, folks:<br />
*I* prayed for this vehicle. <br />
*I* suggested we get this vehicle.<br />
*I* don't care what I drive as long as it is safe & reliable. (And this car is both.)<br />
*I* didn't want a car payment any more.<br />
*I* suggested we get rid of our van.<br />
<br />
So when people say things like the aforementioned, you tick me off. Because what you are really saying is "you poor thing"....Poor meaning actually financially lacking and meaning pity.<br />
<br />
First of all, don't ever attack my husband like that. Don't put HIM down as if he is not providing adequately for us. He provides. And he does it well. <br />
<br />
The comment about "spilling in a car that doesn't matter." OUCH, that
one hurt. More than you might think too. Why does my car not matter?
Should we not take care of what God has provided for us? It is the same
mentality as "i don't care that my kids intentionally broke that toy, it
only came from the dollar store (or it was free)." Are we trying to teach our kids core
values here? Is our mentality that something is only worthy of good care
if it is expensive? That is not responsibility. If we don't take care
of what we have, no matter what it cost, then we will not properly take
care of any things. Because the value is not in the THING, it is in
the character and grateful heart. So yes, it DOES matter if someone
spills n my car. It DOES matter when kids put their feet on the seat. It
DOES matter if someone scratches my already scratched vehicle. Because
it is what God has provided for me. And because He provided it, it has value.<br />
<br />
Here's the other thing. We are not in NEED. We are not a charity case for others to pity. God provides everything that we need. God promises us food and raiment. We have those things. But we have MUCH MUCH More. We have each other. My kids do have toys. They have beds, shoes, a warm bath and clean towels. the list goes on. But none of that is important. Not really in the long spectrum of things.<br />
<br />
Not for eternity.<br />
<br />
See they have something much better than all that. They have the promises of God to hold them together. To show them that they are valued beyond their belongings- or lack thereof by outward standards. They have parents who pray for them regularly and try their very best to ignite a passion for souls and a light in a dark world. They have a God who is ALIVE and evident in their lives. They have prayers that are answered to show them that God cares about their "small" things. They have love.<br />
<br />
And LOVE is the greatest gift we can give to them. (1 Corinthians 13.) Love is not measured by things. Not here in this house.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixdHu0fuLeAUZa6Vy0WOU7dpo2wC0JEyUFI9-YeymRHq7b8TC0i7aw11bP0s62ImjxEzonTiQGIz3T36_BmhHjRO7bla6VDMxfOsnG_4uzjDff4En_dX5fNb3e4T3FmCplBgAKWOe_ujk/s1600/1992_chevrolet_caprice_4_dr_std_wagon-pic-40494.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixdHu0fuLeAUZa6Vy0WOU7dpo2wC0JEyUFI9-YeymRHq7b8TC0i7aw11bP0s62ImjxEzonTiQGIz3T36_BmhHjRO7bla6VDMxfOsnG_4uzjDff4En_dX5fNb3e4T3FmCplBgAKWOe_ujk/s320/1992_chevrolet_caprice_4_dr_std_wagon-pic-40494.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is what I drive. I'm just not seeing what is so terrible.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
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<br />~Abbey~http://www.blogger.com/profile/09008782613748167856noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212924717030034957.post-36025705992168952982012-11-13T19:06:00.000-08:002012-11-13T19:06:12.088-08:00This is sad.This is really sad. I have no digital camera at all. Ours was a point and shoot. It's broken beyond repair. I shoot film still. When film is developed they can put it on a CD so you can load it in the computer. GREAT idea!-right? WRONG! We do not have a CD drive in the computer because this is Jacob's work computer and MY computer broke too. So no pictures to share for a LONG time. This is really sad-huh?<br />
I don't tell you this looking for sympathy, but as an explanation of sorts. Too many blog posts without pictures gets boring unless you like my rants, which are more for me than for you...so there you have it. FB will be pretty boring too.<br />
Man! and I have so many things I would love to share with you. I mean, we live in a new town, a new home; the kids are in a new school, Winter and holidays are coming. BAH!<br />
What did we do before cameras? Frankly, I don't remember. I started shooting around age 8. I am guessing everyone just wrote very detailed or just banked it away in the Memory Deposit Box. I don't trust my memory a whole lot for details any more...not certain kinds anyway. Writing is cathartic, maybe I will try that in a detailed way. hmmmm....~Abbey~http://www.blogger.com/profile/09008782613748167856noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212924717030034957.post-87841557094805353342012-10-21T17:44:00.000-07:002012-10-21T17:44:33.859-07:00Glade has done it!I should fill you in on a little secret. I am a product tester for BzzAgent. It's a neat little exploration of mine. I fill out some surveys; they send me some products, and I write a review (or as many as I want to). I keep the products and get some coupons for more or to hand out to friends. It's kind of fun!<br />
<br />
Right now I have Glade! I received the new line of Glade Expressions! AMAZING scents! Very natural and realistic smelling. AND the scents last in the air. I especially like the oil diffuser! The spray is great if you remember to spray it! I tried the Apple cinnamon in the spray and the Pineapple Mongosteen in the oil diffuser. Both are very appealing!<br />
<br />
Glade has a great design on these products so that they blend into your home decor. My family didn't even notice I had them out! (That was especially helpful to keep little hands from touching it!) These are really cost efficient too! Less than $5 each...and I have coupons if you want one! Just let me know! The only thing I ask is that if you get one send me a short review of your own! I want to know what you think!<br />
<br />
<img alt="" src="https://img.bzzagent.com/image/gladeExpressions.jpg?Type=activity&Activity=9365102339&Campaign=5855213675&Uid=1310623&token=b0a17f8db61570d89119d1ba341d37e8" />~Abbey~http://www.blogger.com/profile/09008782613748167856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212924717030034957.post-40960772871463097012012-10-19T06:29:00.001-07:002012-10-19T06:29:28.031-07:00Brain dump of new newsSo many things are going on here. This post will probably jump around and go in no particular order, which will bother my conscience a bit, but it is what it is.<br />
<br />
For starters, Jacob got a new job. Its in Pennsylvania. Obviously, out of commuting territory, so we had to move. You should message me if you want our new address, since I am not foolish enough to post it here.<br />
With this job, it is likely that Jacob will get deployed in 2014. He is working with the National Guard. Its a rewarding job on many levels. Going back to PA has no real significance to me. I just don't really care whereI live as long as I am with my family. The thing I have already picked out that I do not like is that there are sidewalks everywhere. I am much more comfortable in the country. Suburbia is not great in my opinion.<br />
<br />
We need to find a church. This is a high priority. It is a difficult task as well. There are plenty of churches to pick from which is good. The search is just not <i>that</i> fun to me. Prayers are appreciated!<br />
<br />
The kids are not back in school yet. Pennsylvania is hard to get anything done in. You need every document ever known to man to just get a driver's license. It's really annoying! Our systems are so flawed. Illegal immigrants can get a lot of benefits that citizens can't even get, period. Then on top of that I can't get my kids in school or get a DL without all the documents not even needed by the illegals to get those said benefits. Messed up!<br />
<br />
I have partnered with another lady to relaunch a great blog called <a href="http://oneminutewriter.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">The One Minute Writer</a>. You should totally check it out. Make it a part of your day. It's just 60 seconds! We give you a prompt and you write for one minute. It is fun! You can suggest writing prompts if you would like. We can always use new ideas! Fridays is our Flash Fiction day. On Fridays, you write a short story with the prompt given; typically the prompt is a bit longer than other days as well. Try it out, and pass it along to your friends. You can <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheOneMinuteWriter?ref=hl" target="_blank">like</a> us on Facebook as well! We are on Twitter too, but just getting the hang of that one. Look us up! We will love your support!!<br />
<br />
I have a serious pain in my arm. I saw the Dr. a few months ago and learned I have tendonitis. Where most people get it in the back part of their elbow (tennis elbow) I have it in the front, where your arm bends. He has suggested getting a shot; I did not do it then because I had no insurance. But now. WOW. It hurts to just hold my coffee, and we CAN"T have that! I think I will be looking for a Dr. to get the cortisone. I am pretty sure packing, unpacking and carrying boxes around did not help the situation at all.<br />
<br />
I am anxious to go to the Apple Orchard and get some Pennsylvania apples. It is apple pie season for me. I love making pies. Its something I am good at. They never last long in this house. I have heard of some new varieties and am looking forward to trying them out as well! <br />
<br />
Guess I better get my day started! There are many thrift stores I plan to check out today...It's 1/2 price day today!! Coming from NC, our family is in dire need of some long sleeve clothes! I am hoping we find some sweet deals and fashionable clothes!<br />
<br />
I hope you all have a blessed day!<br />
<br />
<br />~Abbey~http://www.blogger.com/profile/09008782613748167856noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212924717030034957.post-47455387623653697772012-09-30T20:47:00.001-07:002012-09-30T20:47:36.327-07:00He's still workin' on me.I am perplexed by the thought process of so many these days. On lots of topics, really. But one lately has really struck a chord with me. Churches in general these days are so focused on the grace of God. The grace of God abounds. The grace of God that I need to show others. Don't punish your children because you are showing them grace, like God shows to you.<br />
<br />
Sounds like a lot of lovey dovey fluff to me. Yes, God is gracious to me. God gives me so much more than I deserve. And yes, we should bestow grace to others.<br />
<br />
But just think for a second. If we spent as much time focusing on the Holiness as we do on the grace of God, don't you think we would be able to experience God's grace even more? I mean if we make it our focus to "Be ye holy for I am holy." Would we not "do" all the other things that would please God? We would be living our life righteously on purpose.<br />
<br />
God also shows us mercy. That is very clear, but we don't hear that talked about as much as the grace part! My perspective is that "we" as a society don't want to hear how ROTTEN to the core we all are. I mean noone is better than another. We are SINNERS. FILTHY RAGS. That is what the Bible calls us. Every single one of us at some point has thought or verbally stated something to the effect of "not as bad as..." whatever you want to fill in the blank. Most of the time I hear things like, murderer or baby killer, or rapist or child molester. Yeah, those things are pretty bad. Have we forgotten that they are just as bad as telling a lie? or just as bad as us excusing our children's temper tantrum as "they are tired"? It is all SIN.<br />
<br />
Each of those sins, even if it were the ONLY sin, would have sent Jesus to the cross. Your attitude of "I would never do <i>that</i>" is just. as. bad. For the record, I in my experience, whenever I say "I would never do <i>that</i>"; I find that Satan takes that as a challenge to get you to do just <i>that</i> or something else that will ruin a testimony pretty fast. Never think you are above any certain sin. You are not. I am not.<br />
<br />
So back to the holy part. Have you ever stopped to wonder what Holy <u>really</u> looks like?<br />
<br />
By definition holy means 1. worthy of absolute devotion. 2. sacred 3. having a divine quality<br />
<br />
WORTHY OF ABSOLUTE DEVOTION.<br />
<br />
There is nothing that deserves our absolute devotion other than God. And yet we devote our time, efforts, money, kids, thoughts, talents, energy to many other things. And often we claim it to be in the name of God. But a lot of times we are doing the work for a good show or for that good feeling that comes with it, or because there was no one else to do it. Not solely because we are ABSOLUTELY DEVOTED to God.<br />
<br />
I am convicted of this. I have been for some time actually. For a long time, I thought my highest calling was to be a mom to my kids. After all, that is the "career" path I have chosen, and I do feel that I am called to be a mother and not something else in the career world. However, that is not my highest calling.<br />
<br />
My true calling, and your true calling is to "be ye Holy for I am Holy." It's simple. We don't have to search all over the world to find what God wants from us. It's right there. (1 Peter 1:16 )<br />
<br />
How can we be holy though? This is not easy to execute. As a matter of fact, I believe no one will ever in there human state achieve holiness completely. I think that we can and should strive to make that our priority as we fear God and His commandments. We should not take it lightly. We need to be set apart from the world. We need to honor God in our abilities, thoughts, actions, words, etc. We need to know Him, know His word. Follow Him, not mankind. We are going to look weird to the World when we strive for holiness. It's a fact. If we think that we can "blend in" and share Jesus we are sadly mistaken. If we blend in, we are not being sanctified, set apart, holy. Jesus never blended in. I don't want to blend in.<br />
<br />
In my flesh I want to blend in. I don't want the world to stare at me and think I am weird. But I also know that blending is has gotten me nowhere in the grand scheme of things. My challenge to myself based on how the Holy Spirit has been working on me is what am I doing today to be holy?<br />
<br />
I am thankful that God is gracious to me since I am not at all what he sees my potential to be. But I do wish that these new movements would stop pushing the Grace so much. It doesn't challenge us to be more Christ like or do what He has called us to do. It sort of just makes us all feel ok about where we are. That is not a good thing. Yes, God loves us where we are. But He also loves us much too much to allow us to stay there. And I believe whole heartedly that holiness is where it's at. <br />
<br />
I heard a quote that said something like this: If we strive for happiness our whole lives, we will never find it. If we strive for Holiness, the happiness will follow.<br />
<br />
That is pretty powerful. ~Abbey~http://www.blogger.com/profile/09008782613748167856noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212924717030034957.post-65971585390145608672012-08-23T20:18:00.001-07:002012-08-23T20:18:09.003-07:00Lying is ok...when?I am learning that people think it's ok to lie when:<br />
<ul>
<li>the issue being lied about "isn't THAT big a deal"</li>
<li>it's not <strike>really</strike> hurting anyone</li>
<li>lying will benefit self</li>
<li>tryig to avoid hurting someone's feelings by speaking truth</li>
</ul>
I am certain there are other ways people <strike>condone</strike> justify their lies. We all lie sometimes, intentionally. I don't think that you can honestly say "It was an accident that I lied."<br />
<br />
What REALLY concerns me is how complacent "we" have become to accept lying! LYING IS SIN! Lying slaps God in the face. Lying is not loving. Lying is not truth. Even a partial truth partial lie is a COMPLETE lie!<br />
<br />
This has been a HOT topic at home. There are "little lies" and there are "big lies"...and I am determined to not allow my children to accept ANY lying as part of their character. Manipulation is lying. Deceit is lying. <br />
<br />
Lately, Facebook is the culprit of the lying topic. "Why can't I have a Facebook page? I just want to play a game." The answer is NO. Do I think Facebook is all bad? Obviously not. BUT when accepting Facebook rules and regulations, you are stating that you are older than 13. If you are NOT older than 13, you are not supposed to be using Facebook.<br />
<br />
So logic tells me, if I set up a Facebook page for my child who is not 13 (just so he can play a game) than I am telling him that<br />
#1 the rules set before us by administration (authority) are stupid in my opinion, therefore you don't have to abide by them. (would that same rule apply if i thought his teacher's rules were stupid too?)<br />
#2 Lying is acceptable behavior. (but only in WHAT circumstances?!)<br />
<br />
I have a HUGE problem with both those statements. As a Bible believer, I am convicted to teach my children that<br />
#1 authority is to be respected regardless of what I think of it. We are to obey that authority, unless it is telling us to do something against God's Word. (Ephesians 6:6, I know this was directly speaking of slave/masters; however, I believe the principle is there.)<br />
#2 Lying is never acceptable. (Proverbs 12:22, or read the story of Annanias and Saphira in Acts 5 in which lying got them both struck dead!)<br />
<br />
God doesn't take lying lightly. Why have we come to accept this as the "norm"? Why do we ignore the "little lies" but punish the "big ones"? That is a double standard. So when we do that, we are confusing our children and teaching them how to manipulate a situation to benefit themselves. <br />
<br />
Our integrity is a HUGE part of our character. Why are we so willing to sacrifice it for such stupid things!? <br />
<br />
Just something to ponder. Thoughts?<br />
<br />~Abbey~http://www.blogger.com/profile/09008782613748167856noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212924717030034957.post-39400915613446505202012-08-22T07:00:00.000-07:002012-08-22T12:28:32.009-07:00First Step of Obedience!You know that feeling that you are about to cry? It usually is a building event. Something is stirred inside of you, you get that lump in your throat, and you feel your eyes tearing up. You try to hold it back as long as you can. Then whatever is prodding you climaxes, and you burst into tears. I don't do that often at all. However, almost every time I cry that is the sequence. Few things in life draw a tear immediately. I am sure upon hearing that someone close to me has died or had a tragic accident, I would be flooded with tears immediately- fortunately though, I have not had that experience.<br />
<br />
Two other things do that to me though.<br />
#1 hearing of someone's salvation. I can not hold back tears. It just happens. I am SO filled with joy, I cry immediately.<br />
#2 watching my children be baptized.<br />
<br />
I have led 3 of my children to the Lord. I prayed and prayed that I would be a tool God would use and hoped that He would allow me that specific privilege; to be there to pray with them in that moment of repentance. He granted me that. I am ever grateful!<br />
Clayton was baptized in June 2008.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje411Kt1G9Zu1bfrp8_txqm_cRk6vfCmiSpIunkJ25hrmPe520Ly2QWhQ3bsqePP9DFWPabqrzoqx1eKD7DnaFnLK6HtHg_hu3_qEaUbJ3s2mi8dAYrm1zFQBy_nLqGBbkibdkRCyuc9c/s1600/church_023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje411Kt1G9Zu1bfrp8_txqm_cRk6vfCmiSpIunkJ25hrmPe520Ly2QWhQ3bsqePP9DFWPabqrzoqx1eKD7DnaFnLK6HtHg_hu3_qEaUbJ3s2mi8dAYrm1zFQBy_nLqGBbkibdkRCyuc9c/s320/church_023.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">he looks so little!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Candice was baptized in <a href="http://justapeekbyabbey.blogspot.com/2012/02/proud-parent-moment.html" target="_blank">February 2012</a><br />
<br />
and Cameron was also recently baptized, May 2012<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxQf3XulVZZ7Toeu1MP57x_GjGlwCYJV2kh7qUZiajRjJ7XfOmOSGYBT5CdnoLoDzk8Re6h5wPxeU3NdR6K2hXRZJ_fUHcZZqZXldmwIFzoF1Ry4gA6C8TGryZ0_fTndGTflndRB-RDLM/s1600/SUMMER'12+039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxQf3XulVZZ7Toeu1MP57x_GjGlwCYJV2kh7qUZiajRjJ7XfOmOSGYBT5CdnoLoDzk8Re6h5wPxeU3NdR6K2hXRZJ_fUHcZZqZXldmwIFzoF1Ry4gA6C8TGryZ0_fTndGTflndRB-RDLM/s320/SUMMER'12+039.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She was SO excited!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvoGreW3eSmwTzPng_lgeU8HUMAmesgnE0yYGCP9VwuYy2XRL-TXqK6PTeAfk12UhEuhJYIHpjMiw7RWVw81I1lwCrU9bgSLLW0b8cNWHo5CZEsAbTpjdPaKTUBZU8kaYBe1lfFzGO_OE/s1600/SUMMER'12+040.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvoGreW3eSmwTzPng_lgeU8HUMAmesgnE0yYGCP9VwuYy2XRL-TXqK6PTeAfk12UhEuhJYIHpjMiw7RWVw81I1lwCrU9bgSLLW0b8cNWHo5CZEsAbTpjdPaKTUBZU8kaYBe1lfFzGO_OE/s320/SUMMER'12+040.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Can't wait!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3f1sgBtp4PVA2hvr6OT5h0nDUqXjPFZBaEfXBIMqURu8J52Pkj2FXCKIfWOYIB-kNpbJ4dHizAeVojopwVSqRb88wNCFJZUuCXRbTsiqy0ijejetMOFfq2lY7mQD0yZExwrz9Ucok0sw/s1600/SUMMER'12+041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3f1sgBtp4PVA2hvr6OT5h0nDUqXjPFZBaEfXBIMqURu8J52Pkj2FXCKIfWOYIB-kNpbJ4dHizAeVojopwVSqRb88wNCFJZUuCXRbTsiqy0ijejetMOFfq2lY7mQD0yZExwrz9Ucok0sw/s320/SUMMER'12+041.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Letting Pastor get organized</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm7LIiMCyiNbGv95PDWeDFpyI6LcaNi2a7SYqYz2boVLnKd25noHm1hYN0M1z57YAmanYvM-fs141Kr3OOzwZDPtDxraL6VDvKMCD5hzsKaaqxWgUKqDFqDf8AT1UOmNGUwV_Y9Z6qSuc/s1600/SUMMER'12+042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm7LIiMCyiNbGv95PDWeDFpyI6LcaNi2a7SYqYz2boVLnKd25noHm1hYN0M1z57YAmanYvM-fs141Kr3OOzwZDPtDxraL6VDvKMCD5hzsKaaqxWgUKqDFqDf8AT1UOmNGUwV_Y9Z6qSuc/s320/SUMMER'12+042.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oh man! Look at all those people staring at me!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF5fBk5USTQcJPGRRR3Nico4HAA3IwMt8HjNctOBa2u4pQFfRkTlDyCHXE838D0T6ceRZh54OtoHYwepreMSgOybWWffa4Iq_D_WvemvL7Ur0_hUYYhXeSEKAtZPG8bCdc2CaNRTwAsUs/s1600/SUMMER'12+043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF5fBk5USTQcJPGRRR3Nico4HAA3IwMt8HjNctOBa2u4pQFfRkTlDyCHXE838D0T6ceRZh54OtoHYwepreMSgOybWWffa4Iq_D_WvemvL7Ur0_hUYYhXeSEKAtZPG8bCdc2CaNRTwAsUs/s320/SUMMER'12+043.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cameron, do you know for sure that Jesus lives in your heart?</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitTnrZpGxy5Wn6vnI77ZEUnBB6BdrKK90py94rV53zblIUNo_FP9JdeinoAlyeP8L-8yZCggzTu0WNajIsG6GQmz4iVh132msgWnxLI2NtANuX85vBf88WgriJjRdApScW7WdQJO1mtNI/s1600/SUMMER'12+044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitTnrZpGxy5Wn6vnI77ZEUnBB6BdrKK90py94rV53zblIUNo_FP9JdeinoAlyeP8L-8yZCggzTu0WNajIsG6GQmz4iVh132msgWnxLI2NtANuX85vBf88WgriJjRdApScW7WdQJO1mtNI/s320/SUMMER'12+044.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">DUNK! She was grinning so much this whole time, she took in good bit of water!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDOCeQMImj8jtBArYfqDsz58Q6XclPnjkkOVslpArWMaMsAReaavBEZ8nkB6-VHX3ZGcZPkI51Tw18qmve5YsVaszROSWQV24CeGXWGrwMnmmeb1rpZNtIZfqUalSyCqYrnfThwlhKnA0/s1600/SUMMER'12+045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDOCeQMImj8jtBArYfqDsz58Q6XclPnjkkOVslpArWMaMsAReaavBEZ8nkB6-VHX3ZGcZPkI51Tw18qmve5YsVaszROSWQV24CeGXWGrwMnmmeb1rpZNtIZfqUalSyCqYrnfThwlhKnA0/s320/SUMMER'12+045.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All done! still grinning ear to ear!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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3 John 1:4~<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span><span class="verse 3John_1_4"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I have no greater joy than to hear [<i>see</i>] that my children are walking in the truth</span>.</span>~Abbey~http://www.blogger.com/profile/09008782613748167856noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212924717030034957.post-36625777958976310982012-08-21T19:19:00.002-07:002012-08-21T19:19:52.223-07:00Liebster Award Day<br />
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<span>Tuesday, August 21, 2012</span></h2>
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I was given the Liebster Award!
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<span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I got a
blog award today :)What a nice surprise! I was nominated for the Liebster Blog
Award from <b>Abby at <a href="http://mommycubed260818.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Confessions of an Imperfect Mom</a>.</b></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><a href="http://thechroniclesofmomnia.blogspot.com/"></a></b> </span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #674ea7;">The Liebster Blog Award is
given to bloggers by bloggers. It is a way to acknowledge each other and say
“you’re doing a great job”. It is for blogs with 200 or less followers, so it’s
also a great way to spread the word about smaller blogs and get them more
readers and followers! When you receive the award, you post 11 random facts
about yourself and answer 11 questions from the person(s) who nominated you. You
pass the Award onto 11 other blogs (make sure you tell them you nominated them!)
and ask them 11 questions. You’re not allowed to nominate the blog(s) who
nominated you! (To get the button, right click the picture on my page and save
the picture to your computer. You can then upload to your blog.)</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">11 Random Facts about ME:</span></span><br />
<ol>
<li><span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I know first hand that groundhogs taste really good with salt! </span></span></li>
<li><span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I have an irregular heart beat.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I am a coffee snob.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I have severe panic attacks in water to the point that I had to be rescued more than once. </span></span></li>
<li><span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I miss playing competitive sports.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I am in pain every day and no Dr. can tell me why; it's very discouraging.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I wish I could time machine myself back to the 1800's to live.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The first time I told someone else about Christ's sacrifice, Heaven and Hell, they told me they weren't allowed to play with me any more because I said the word "hell". I was 6 years old.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I kick myself all the time, because I ended up in a class with that same person when I was 15, I didn't try to tell her again about Christ. I pray for her a lot though I don't know what happened to her when the last bell rang.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="color: purple;">I eagerly check my mailbox hoping that I get a personal letter; it's rare that it actually happens.</span></span></span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="color: purple;"> <span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><strong><u>My 11 questions for the nominees:</u></strong></span><br />
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<span style="color: #674ea7;">1. Where did you grow up?</span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="color: purple;">The great Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania</span> </span><br />
<span style="color: #674ea7;">2. What is something you want to do/accomplish before you die?</span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="color: purple;">I'd like to write a book in a 3 part perspective. I already have my topic.</span> </span><br />
<span style="color: #674ea7;">3. What is your greatest fear?</span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="color: purple;">That one of my children will die without Christ.</span> </span><br />
<span style="color: #674ea7;">4. Are you closer to your mother or father?</span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="color: purple;">That is tough. I go to each of them for different things. I guess my mom if I had to choose.</span> </span><br />
<span style="color: #674ea7;">5. How many US States have you been to?</span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="color: purple;">NV, MA, NY, DE, MD, VA, WV, SC, NC, FL, TN, PA, NJ, IL, WI, GA...how many is that? 16</span> </span><br />
<span style="color: #674ea7;">6. What is one of your best talents?</span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="color: purple;">I am quite social in places I know no one.</span> </span><br />
<span style="color: #674ea7;">7. How long does it take you to get ready in the morning?</span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="color: purple;">If I have my coffee, 40 minutes. Without coffee, it has taken me as long as 2 hours. </span> </span><br />
<span style="color: #674ea7;">8. Where do you see yourself in 10 years?</span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="color: purple;">bald and ragged from raising teenagers! haha! </span> </span><br />
<span style="color: #674ea7;">9. What is a movie you could watch over and over?</span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="color: purple;">Sabrina(1954) and Mary Poppins</span> </span><br />
<span style="color: #674ea7;">10. What is your favorite breakfast food?</span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="color: purple;">I don't care for breakfast much, but my favorite when I do eat it...homemade warm pancakes with peanut butter and powdered sugar. MMMM!</span> </span><br />
<span style="color: #674ea7;">11. What is something that really gets on your nerves?</span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="color: purple;">When people don't just "OWN IT" whatever IT is at the moment. Just OWN IT, quit making excuses for everything, or explaining why you do what you do.</span> </span><br />
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<span style="color: #674ea7;"><strong><span style="color: purple;">Thanks again Abby, for the award!!!</span> </strong></span></span></span><br />
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~Abbey~http://www.blogger.com/profile/09008782613748167856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212924717030034957.post-46745208128089841892012-08-13T07:00:00.002-07:002012-08-14T04:17:31.286-07:00HAPPY BIRTHDAY, Kelly!!I put all the entries on a little piece of paper and put them all in a cup, then I had Cameron choose one! She pulled out Kelly's name! YAY! Here are Kelly's entries for your entertainment! <br />
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Answers for how Abbey would answer:<br />
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<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">How old am I this year? Older than you Feel ;)</li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">Name one of the strangest pets I have owned. An iguana???</li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">I don't believe in ______ghosts______, but I DO believe in_demons_____!</li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">My most embarrassing moment involved _____one of my kids_________________.</li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">Something I say a lot? You need to be kind to each other.</li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">Who is my favorite actress? I honestly don't know....but
I'm gonna go out on a limb here and say Charlize Theron???</li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">The truth hurts, but ___a lie____ hurts worse!</li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">Where was I when the world stopped turning? working at the dog groomers???</li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">Name
1 thing I am good at, and 1 thing I am not that good at. You are very
good at cooking/baking. You are not so good at being EARLY! ;)</li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">If
I could spend a day doing ANYTHING and it cost me nothing, what would I
do? You would eat at a 5-Star restaurant and spend time doing things
JUST FOR YOU! </li>
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<span>Here are MY answers for myself :)</span></div>
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<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">How old am I this year? I will be 35 in less than a month</li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">Name one of the strangest pets I have owned. Sea Monkey, LOL</li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">I don't believe in ___Not Spanking Children_________, but I DO believe in___time outs___!</li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">My most embarrassing moment involved ___being naked___________________.</li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">Something I say a lot? Stop screaming!!!</li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">Who is my favorite actress? Jennifer Garner</li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">The truth hurts, but _heartbreak______ hurts worse!</li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">Where was I when
the world stopped turning? Working as a counselor at GFMS</li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">Name
1 thing I am good at, and 1 thing I am not that good at. I'm good
getting people to open up. I'm not particularly good at anything else.</li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">If
I could spend a day doing ANYTHING and it cost me nothing, what would I
do? I would go to New York and see every show on Broadway! :)</li>
</ol>
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NOW, here is how I, myself, would have answered these questions! :) <br />
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<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">How old am I this year? turned 32</li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">Name one of the strangest pets I have owned. Prairie Dog</li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">I don't believe in __ghosts_________, but I DO believe in___angels/demons___!</li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">My most embarrassing moment involved ___slapping the butt of a perfect stranger on purpose_.</li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">Something I say a lot? O MY WORD!!!</li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">Who is my favorite actress? Audrey Hepburn</li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">The truth hurts, but _lies__ hurts worse!</li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">Where was I when
the world stopped turning? grooming a dog</li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">Name
1 thing I am good at, and 1 thing I am not that good at. I'm good at reading people, I'm not good at trusting people with my heart.</li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">If
I could spend a day doing ANYTHING and it cost me nothing, what would I
do? ride horses through mountains</li>
</ol>
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~Abbey~http://www.blogger.com/profile/09008782613748167856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212924717030034957.post-33965992232175033102012-08-10T06:20:00.002-07:002012-08-10T06:20:58.216-07:00A Birthday Gift to YOU!My birthday is this weekend. I was thinking about how we all like to get birthday presents, but unfortunately as we get older those usually seem to go by the wayside. Even Birthday cards that once flooded the mail box...well at least mine is usually fairly empty. (To make note, there are 2 people that I can always KNOW there will be a card from in the mail.) It's just life as you get older. So I thought it would be fun to give a Birthday present! Why not, right? Its MY birthday! I am not having a party or anything, but this could be just as fun!<br />
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What is the present? I can't tell you that! It will be wrapped!<br />What do I have to do? Enter the drawing<br />
How do I enter? Fill in the blanks or answer the questions how you think I would answer.<br />
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For more entries, answer them for yourself as well, send me a link or email. (luv2bmom4@ymail.com) Share on your own blog and link back. Share on FB. Each will get you another entry, just make sure you let me know what you have done. Plus I want the fun of reading them all!<br />
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The drawing will be held on Sunday August 12 between 10pm and midnight (EST) Then I will announce the winner on Monday morning! Sounds good?<br />
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So here are the questions!<br />
<ol>
<li>How old am I this year?</li>
<li>Name one of the strangest pets I have owned.</li>
<li>I don't believe in ____________, but I DO believe in______!</li>
<li>My most embarrassing moment involved ______________________.</li>
<li>Something I say a lot?</li>
<li>Who is my favorite actress?</li>
<li>The truth hurts, but _______ hurts worse!</li>
<li>Where was I when the world stopped turning?</li>
<li>Name 1 thing I am good at, and 1 thing I am not that good at.</li>
<li>If I could spend a day doing ANYTHING and it cost me nothing, what would I do?<br /><br />Have fun! I know I will have fun picking out your Birthday Present! </li>
</ol>~Abbey~http://www.blogger.com/profile/09008782613748167856noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212924717030034957.post-34756662648010687592012-07-15T11:55:00.002-07:002012-07-15T11:55:51.682-07:00Flesh Eating Bacteria Story (III) - the endAs we went to see Dr. Geideman 1 week after the initial surgery, Jacob was not feeling great. There was a spot on his foot that was mushy, red, inflamed and looking off. As soon as the Dr. saw it he asked Jacob when he ate last. (The dooming question!) Breakfast about an hour before. The Dr. instructed us to go straight to the hospital. "Do not stop for anything, go straight there. I will check you in from my office here and you will be sent straight to a room. We will have surgery tonight." he said. Jacob and I just looked at each other. OK. what are we supposed to say?<br />
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Off we went to check back in to the hospital. Round 2 upon us. We don't know what to expect really.<br />
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By 6pm that evening, Jacob was in surgery again. This time I was starting to worry around 8pm because he was not back to the room yet. I thought something had gone drastically wrong. Just then he was wheeled back into the room. Nothing had gone drastically wrong, though he had a harder time with the anesthesia this time around.<br />
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As soon as the nurse locked his bed wheels, I said I need to see his foot. And he sat up, and was frantically trying to find his foot. We pulled the covers back, and I just broke into tears which I tried SO hard to hold back.<br />
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There was a chunk of his foot gone. From the bed of his toes to about 1 inch below his ankle and 1 inch deep. It looked like the Dr. just took an ice cream scooper to it. He had a contraption called a Wound Vac in place. This thing was supposed to heal the wound from the inside out. Very expensive therapy, but well worth it as it did not leave Jacob with a huge divot in his foot after the fact!<br />
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The next day the Dr. came to visit. He said to Jacob, "you can get up and walk around whenever you want to now." So Jacob asked him if he could right then. And he did. After 3 weeks of not being able to walk at all, Jacob stood up with half his foot missing and walked just fine with little to no pain. How was this even possible I thought. But the wound vac relieves all pressure that would have been there with swelling and bandages. <br />
Jacob was discharged 4 days later (if i messed up, this stay was 6 days total) because we were waiting for approval from insurance to take this machine home. (It cost $25,000 for the one in the hospital...yes you read that correctly, Twenty-five THOUSAND....the one we would be allowed to take home was $200 per day plus supplies that you changed every other day.) <br /><br />We came home and had home health care nurses for several weeks. Jacob saw the Dr. in office 1 day each week until they allowed him to go back to work. He was out of work since March 6th! He returned to work full time around Memorial Day. (the week prior, I believe)<br /><br />Today, Jacob's foot is 99% healed. He has no feeling in bits of the top of his foot. There is one HUGE nasty looking scar that will get better with time, and his foot is discolored that will probably not change back to normal. He has limited mobility in his 4 toes, but it has not changed his gait at all.<br />
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There are SO many things to be thankful for in this whole process! I am going to save most of those for another blog post. But the one i am MOST grateful for is that God chose to spare Jacob's life and his limb. The Dr. confirmed that is we had waited even til later in the day to come to the hospital, he would not have been so fortunate! Really makes you take a look and really know what is important to you when one day out of nowhere your husband is laying in a hospital bed as his body is attacked by an invisible demon and all you can do is wait as the Drs make the best guesses they can til they can prove something. We are so thankful to God for giving us Dr. Geideman. Had we listened to the first Dr. we also would not be so fortunate because he was certain Jacob needed no surgery. <br /><br />Following are the rest of the pictures that I have. Some are pretty gruesome, use discression when viewing around squeamish people or small children! Thank you!!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFS9xtZsy2t-yK508gipFdHF69eBipPaoH9Q-BhnZ3z3AffNa8ZMj4-FbEos82n4JSmqHkzTKz6OR_jkA4COPFECsdKgXjcjGDLQBMxnQLRWMNMEEJmOfNEZThYmOXUXo9pcCnqX_YQkA/s1600/foot+047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFS9xtZsy2t-yK508gipFdHF69eBipPaoH9Q-BhnZ3z3AffNa8ZMj4-FbEos82n4JSmqHkzTKz6OR_jkA4COPFECsdKgXjcjGDLQBMxnQLRWMNMEEJmOfNEZThYmOXUXo9pcCnqX_YQkA/s320/foot+047.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The black area is all dead flesh, no skin. The creamy yellow is flesh that is falling off as it is dying. All the weird looking skin that looks somewhat "laying loosely" is where blistering was occurring and then draining when we did bandage changes. You can't see the depth in these pictures as they are 2D, but maybe you should be glad and just take my word for it that these are deep wounds.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs2hyphenhyphenISJx0-kQiRxa6elwBY8JD6pGABUYwlttEBzICbb9Je8p3bJWMzrsYu5lFKKzgzB0IyUnGDRuWB80SKWDorOce8Dean99Sts7L0gicL7W_NqcladsZZ36PuZTGxmueFTpo5JBtafM/s1600/foot+048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs2hyphenhyphenISJx0-kQiRxa6elwBY8JD6pGABUYwlttEBzICbb9Je8p3bJWMzrsYu5lFKKzgzB0IyUnGDRuWB80SKWDorOce8Dean99Sts7L0gicL7W_NqcladsZZ36PuZTGxmueFTpo5JBtafM/s320/foot+048.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">just out of surgery. though this looks bad, it is actually looking very good. what you see that looks "meaty" in this picture is just a white sponge that was stuffed down into the foot. The hose has a constant suction that also vacuums any drainage into a bag Jacob carried like a purse.</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4gIWzGT5wbakq36Vi3ZS6fwgE8V3Eb18xqVI0ZBMayZXUokr55_22LgSGzjisvOxM2fJGHl_hkQnwIq5bdhEUqd2FdyuWuRYuEYTLCDLjKRpTQASKfvqBMnEBBs3p6YP9IX8Rh5OeJto/s1600/foot+049.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4gIWzGT5wbakq36Vi3ZS6fwgE8V3Eb18xqVI0ZBMayZXUokr55_22LgSGzjisvOxM2fJGHl_hkQnwIq5bdhEUqd2FdyuWuRYuEYTLCDLjKRpTQASKfvqBMnEBBs3p6YP9IX8Rh5OeJto/s320/foot+049.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7NrZIrvxJ8rsxS28b5wgTrUhrEj2E3wwKw53MULIjK39KTCbZWvxLl3QurUjXr_4O2D0sHnvezAinK_SNcwagSeasfwYbhQhUSQ3oQlHyyVg6YnwIBqAHaNAuUIT8Br1X3krBFk9K9EI/s1600/foot+050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7NrZIrvxJ8rsxS28b5wgTrUhrEj2E3wwKw53MULIjK39KTCbZWvxLl3QurUjXr_4O2D0sHnvezAinK_SNcwagSeasfwYbhQhUSQ3oQlHyyVg6YnwIBqAHaNAuUIT8Br1X3krBFk9K9EI/s320/foot+050.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Without bandages 2 days after surgery. the white that you can see are the tendons. When Jacob would move his toes, you could CLEARLY see how tendons work like cables. I find it fascinating, though I am sure disgusting to many!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH-30rLYEsGhyphenhyphenGkCOIewfiXZLITl-FW-eWJwpfGgz2lXK0MhWrWY0EJQ9e-doaontNNMyXTWcG0Ol3GC7ssJPvU8WWa6oUGXGI4Buy8ITFZ05kfNvsason2v_-0pGDeQn6TwUE6tLUwNI/s1600/foot+051.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH-30rLYEsGhyphenhyphenGkCOIewfiXZLITl-FW-eWJwpfGgz2lXK0MhWrWY0EJQ9e-doaontNNMyXTWcG0Ol3GC7ssJPvU8WWa6oUGXGI4Buy8ITFZ05kfNvsason2v_-0pGDeQn6TwUE6tLUwNI/s320/foot+051.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Again, the white are the tendons. Who knew you had THIS much room to cut anything off the top of the foot!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglHh7ngGwqSItvJ2yZDWOJSkWsgkOGdhoFV8Nb6urf97IDv4_V8Z8pbJiiYUdDVRDOh80T7G2Bj9G8DdjLpW09uiwemlgYOm3Sqc2kGLDYW6ByyJ0DPUwJ0FLFXjsBNQl1U5c43335S_4/s1600/foot+054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglHh7ngGwqSItvJ2yZDWOJSkWsgkOGdhoFV8Nb6urf97IDv4_V8Z8pbJiiYUdDVRDOh80T7G2Bj9G8DdjLpW09uiwemlgYOm3Sqc2kGLDYW6ByyJ0DPUwJ0FLFXjsBNQl1U5c43335S_4/s320/foot+054.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Black sponges to go home. these are more painful to remove, but make the healing process a bit quicker!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td></tr>
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When the sponges and vac were removed 3x a week, I could not help but shed tears each time. It was SO painful for Jacob. I have never seen him in pain like that. He would shake in agony and scream out in torment. I am SO thankful this is behind us; I hope to NEVER see that kind of pain again!~Abbey~http://www.blogger.com/profile/09008782613748167856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212924717030034957.post-88455499355682934192012-06-18T04:29:00.000-07:002012-06-18T04:29:36.545-07:00Something to bring a smile to your face!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU9WSi7zjYHwRvPDcWfMQEK8eUeWYL2Qe0_BxNMwo_Okub-RF6XOlvd3Ul4_Z6ilpITyIm9z-ZW8NEgy34UecfvVaSxqErG2C43wqDWPJv38BvFc8FkhrmWMj7o_5O286SUTAD2S9i3_E/s1600/awards2012+024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU9WSi7zjYHwRvPDcWfMQEK8eUeWYL2Qe0_BxNMwo_Okub-RF6XOlvd3Ul4_Z6ilpITyIm9z-ZW8NEgy34UecfvVaSxqErG2C43wqDWPJv38BvFc8FkhrmWMj7o_5O286SUTAD2S9i3_E/s320/awards2012+024.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This was one of Candice's journal pieces from school. It reads "I went to my unkl Corbtt's house. I colord and I playd and I playd! He is my favrot unkl!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6iXgUx6bUkcJJ8auMic_CAEAiBdztPmlxlT0Fmu0Ur-lPt9ZmYVXxRqobinG6FhyphenhyphenbdaFlQpE5yfX1-RXwTw8fZ44y4SytkX6cwxnIeXtKa_6T20dY3xs0G86D-ItQO-VFJbYof4ZuX6I/s1600/awards2012+019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6iXgUx6bUkcJJ8auMic_CAEAiBdztPmlxlT0Fmu0Ur-lPt9ZmYVXxRqobinG6FhyphenhyphenbdaFlQpE5yfX1-RXwTw8fZ44y4SytkX6cwxnIeXtKa_6T20dY3xs0G86D-ItQO-VFJbYof4ZuX6I/s320/awards2012+019.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We try so hard not to let Corbett take naps. Its tough being a rambunctious 2 year old though, and OH SO TIRING! Sunday afternoons especially prove that naps are needed for everyone in our family. Two weeks ago, these 2 crashed hard. It was just too precious!</td></tr>
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<br />~Abbey~http://www.blogger.com/profile/09008782613748167856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212924717030034957.post-73111942641612141472012-06-08T09:31:00.004-07:002012-06-08T09:31:53.389-07:00Flesh Eating Bacteria Story (II)<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKKkc3A5m3rGBcWhZCka-FQJJrTopDJHviLMf1XJhJximQMS2IFFacR_Wb1Tcw7IJEL1rF4uCwuDP3cOZCpFXFoE_Wn2grBW4ino-JHM8Vpi-lMSv_OK2QKXkMnFYaPzUct0_Sn6pSb8s/s1600/foot+021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKKkc3A5m3rGBcWhZCka-FQJJrTopDJHviLMf1XJhJximQMS2IFFacR_Wb1Tcw7IJEL1rF4uCwuDP3cOZCpFXFoE_Wn2grBW4ino-JHM8Vpi-lMSv_OK2QKXkMnFYaPzUct0_Sn6pSb8s/s320/foot+021.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Visiting Daddy</td></tr>
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Ok, so we got checked in to Jacob's hospital room. I went outside and made some phone calls to our families. I was scared not knowing what was to come next. I have taken many Health classes in school/college and understood alot of the terms the Drs. and nurses were using regarding Jacob's health. None of them were good. There was some talk of possibly needing surgery, removing parts or all of his foot or possibly even his leg depending on the severity of the bacteria infection. The Drs. told us that had we waited til later that day to come, Jacob would be choosing Life or Limb...both could not be saved. This helped Jacob understand the severity of his condition a bit more. <br /><br />For hours that day, nurses were in and out of the room more times than I can remember administering different types of antibiotics through IVs. He had Tetnus shot updates and his blood drawn about 3 more times. There was no improvements through out the day, however, things did not seem worse. The fever was not down either, but not getting higher. His white blood counts were 27,000. (normal is between 5-10K; mortality is 30,000)<br />
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Enter Dr. Williams, 5:30pm, the infectious disease Dr. He studies all kinds of weird diseases and treats people with them. (OT: I asked him what the weirdest one he treated was..it was the African Sleeping Sickness. the guy couldn't even stay awake for his appointments, all from the bite of a TINY fly! how cool!) So, Dr. Williams took a look at Jacob's foot and said that he felt the antibiotics just needed some time to kick in and in a day or two we would see a healthy Jacob again. OK, good news...or so we thought.<br />
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Enter Dr. Geideman, 8:00pm, (remember him? He was the 1st Dr. Jacob saw regarding the foot. He was the one who put the fever and the bump together and made the connection) He made some small talk and then rolled the cover back off Jacob's foot. His demeanor changed and he said "O my God. they said it was bad, but not this bad!" He took the nurse by the elbow and left the room without another word. Jacob and I just looked at each other, both of us thinking "this is not good!" He came back in the room minutes later and asked when Jacob had eaten last. It was about 5:00pm. Dr. Geideman said, "oh ok. well don't eat anything else tonight after midnight. nothing to drink either, because you are going to the OR first thing in the morning." he went on to explain what he felt was happening in Jacob's foot. Basically his plan was to open the wound area and cut back until he came to healthy tissue. He explained that if there is alot of puss that is not a good thing at all, yet he was hoping he would not find any. He said he thinks they got some good antibiotics inside of Jacob early enough to create a barrier around the areas already effected in his foot. This would stall the bacteria's spreading progress. But all that could not be determined well without opening the foot. We also warned us that if things were not as he was hoping, worst case scenario would be loss of tissues and bones during surgery. In other words, they plan to remove everything they absolutely have to in order to keep Jacob's over all health in good standing, even if it means taking his foot off.<br />
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We knew what we were stepping into, and it didn't sound pretty.<br />
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The next morning, the nurses showed up to take Jacob down stairs to the OR. I was allowed to go with him to anesthesia until they wheeled him back to the gurney. Jacob was having much anxiety, especially since he had never even been put under before. He did not know what to expect. The drugs were administered, and I prayed with Jacob then left to go wait in the surgical waiting area. <br />
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As I sat there, I felt SO alone. I knew that God was with me and Jacob, but I honestly just wanted a visible person there to talk to and "hold my hand" through the waiting period. I had my head in my hands and was praying and when I lifted my head, I saw someone I knew walking towards me. It was youth pastor from our previous church. WHAT A BLESSING! He sat and talked with me to pass the time. We prayed. He was sent from God. I was not expecting anyone to come.<br />
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About an hour after coming to the waiting area, Dr. Geideman came to let me know the surgery was over and Jacob was in recovery. He said, "Jacob still has a foot! However, when i cut the foot open, there was a lot of puss. A. LOT. I was not happy about that, but I put a drain in it that will remain til tomorrow sometime. There was some dead tissue we cut out, but not much. We took blood cultures to grow the bacteria in to see what kind of bacteria we are dealing with. This will be the hardest part--waiting." He assured me Jacob was doing fine and would be ready to go upstairs in just a bit.<br />
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Whew! Jacob had his foot in tact! That was a blessing! Back to the room to stay hooked up to the IV antibiotics, and start pain meds. <br />Surgery was Friday. On Sunday, we were told that Strep Group A was the culprit. We had lots of questions! like how did he even get this!? Turns out its just one of those bacterias that we all carry. Yep, right now you have it- its just not active, and its VERY unlikely that it would become activated. Also, it can creep in through dry skin, a crack in your skin or some kind of trauma that will give it a breeding ground. (The bacteria thrives on dead blood.) The bacteria also may present itself in an area that does not fit any of the said descriptions, that is because it enters through a place and travels under the skin eating the tissues as it spreads until it presents on the outside. That is why it was so important that we got to the hospital when we did, because you truly cannot assess the real damage being done just by looking on the outside. <br />We would spend 6 days in the hospital, which turned into being called "the first hospitalization" since later we would return.<br />
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Following are the progression of pictures of the foot until we were to return to the hospital about 1 week later.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This was just the next day after surgery. Taken 2 days after the picture in the first post. Compare them <a href="http://justapeekbyabbey.blogspot.com/2012/05/flesh-eating-bacteria-story-i.html" target="_blank">here</a>. The black is the tissue dying where the bacteria has eaten it away. </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIR6YantwlQXFOAgz1G86ySNc_AMOW2zKf0wMA1LMw1favxDOEzHzrlPbfaS_4xi_iWvFfLF9qyxudHEqKkLMeapjlxt_wLmVGB2UyKOwfKNpKEHt6I9iHcdmx4kOaK6nWOolbkyHvu0M/s1600/foot+028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIR6YantwlQXFOAgz1G86ySNc_AMOW2zKf0wMA1LMw1favxDOEzHzrlPbfaS_4xi_iWvFfLF9qyxudHEqKkLMeapjlxt_wLmVGB2UyKOwfKNpKEHt6I9iHcdmx4kOaK6nWOolbkyHvu0M/s320/foot+028.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Day 4 in hospital</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLDupKRIawEeRb6tsW0JvrbsEJaLCxg8yPzgH0wtXjNnCmMdgao4lTUEhBePKwJgERG0nd8zfhPYXWJ5RdDDSKoZU21SAA4SCznk5w02-68BYdTaFj_BKxKT7c1-bGR6Gc77C-0H36mxA/s1600/foot+032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLDupKRIawEeRb6tsW0JvrbsEJaLCxg8yPzgH0wtXjNnCmMdgao4lTUEhBePKwJgERG0nd8zfhPYXWJ5RdDDSKoZU21SAA4SCznk5w02-68BYdTaFj_BKxKT7c1-bGR6Gc77C-0H36mxA/s320/foot+032.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Comparing the good foot to the eaten one :(</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKmiSRxRLhWrkhm3BUdUgsMxqlmVzfmQ0E3XuhRpKgEdNXGDS526dwAMxR_2WU0OyJJ0Oz1JBbaceHVHjrmF7vyoZ7oLFQLPZy248D9rdCwgbcxxYky6iz2vDZO3SryyxgykaaEupSm2g/s1600/foot+029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKmiSRxRLhWrkhm3BUdUgsMxqlmVzfmQ0E3XuhRpKgEdNXGDS526dwAMxR_2WU0OyJJ0Oz1JBbaceHVHjrmF7vyoZ7oLFQLPZy248D9rdCwgbcxxYky6iz2vDZO3SryyxgykaaEupSm2g/s320/foot+029.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Day 6 in hospital</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3ee4sokp1DwWW-B5oPpxSj8KR5AufBYesId-pID6fDfjwOq_TyidKRGbz7yh5LLW1dhvtoemem33GHlquT-ycf0ZNHa6fzGf1vT9eZcCeLgxIsr_3FTTAvWig7P-AagkBKEpAfWU00z4/s1600/foot+033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3ee4sokp1DwWW-B5oPpxSj8KR5AufBYesId-pID6fDfjwOq_TyidKRGbz7yh5LLW1dhvtoemem33GHlquT-ycf0ZNHa6fzGf1vT9eZcCeLgxIsr_3FTTAvWig7P-AagkBKEpAfWU00z4/s320/foot+033.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Day 2 back home</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdouhMriWhqeFEnRHtmFSrt1lpFUZpc8W97JnkcrZN7Q2INTxAhyTjNX0ORU2jAlfkHQOXm8EgApxo0eqI2H5sBvjWm36OsXq6T989j6VK54lYhpPPdI6XH8B-bjpSbH9o2ShCnMxrHoM/s1600/foot+034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdouhMriWhqeFEnRHtmFSrt1lpFUZpc8W97JnkcrZN7Q2INTxAhyTjNX0ORU2jAlfkHQOXm8EgApxo0eqI2H5sBvjWm36OsXq6T989j6VK54lYhpPPdI6XH8B-bjpSbH9o2ShCnMxrHoM/s320/foot+034.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The white rubber band thing that looks like a tendon is not. It is fragile tissue. I have to get the other pictures from Jacob's thumb drive, but as i did the dressing changes over the next day or 2, all that yellow and black fell off with the dressings each day. It was VERY painful.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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To be continued....~Abbey~http://www.blogger.com/profile/09008782613748167856noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212924717030034957.post-72761209776181320962012-06-02T07:19:00.002-07:002012-06-02T07:19:11.548-07:00Father's Day Freebie!Hey Friends! I found this great Freebie for you! Father's Day is approaching, and if you are anything like me weeks fly by, especially in June at the close of the school year! Check out <a href="http://www.cardstore.com/holiday-cards/fathers-day-photo-cards.html" target="_blank">this</a> card shop and at check out enter code LUVDAD2 (I made it easy for you, the link takes you right to the Father's Day cards!) Another great surprise, SHIPPING IS FREE TOO!<br />
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So, check them out and send a free card to your Dad -- you can even have them mail it right to him so its not late! :)<br />
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<br />~Abbey~http://www.blogger.com/profile/09008782613748167856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212924717030034957.post-37704927658171803382012-05-25T05:22:00.002-07:002012-05-25T05:22:25.666-07:00The Flesh Eating Bacteria Story (I)(Disclosure: GRAPHIC PICTURES OF WOUNDS. If you can't handle gross, be warned, this is NOT for you!)<br />
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As many of you know, Jacob bumped his foot on a car door on March 5th. Within 2 hours he had a fever and cold chills. The foot had a small red spot the size of a dime that we were not concerned with at the time. We thought he was just getting sick, as sickness had been going around. By the time we went to bed that night, his foot was sore and slightly more red. When we woke up in the morning he still had a fever and it was much higher at 102.7. His foot was hurting more, and he was limping. That day was a Tuesday; he went to work and by lunch time his fever was so bad that he could not write with a pen to do work orders. It was 75* outside and he had 4 heaters on him as he sat on his toolbox shivering. It was time to go home early. Jacob came home from work, his fever was 104. Again, we still were not connecting the foot and the fever. At this point his foot didn't look too bad. I suggested we make an appointment to have it X-rayed because he was limping on it more. The Dr. could see up the next morning at 8:30am. Dr. Geideman was thorough with the X-rays and found no broken bone, so he told Jacob that he was sure that he had an infection in his foot and prescribed him antibiotics. We were told after taking 2 rounds the antibiotic should make a good difference, and he should be feeling better. This is the first time we put the foot and fever together. Makes sense now, right?!<br />
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Jacob took the antibiotics around 11am. By 1pm, there was no change. The bruised look on the foot had spread some, but not at an alarming rate. Dr. Geideman had drawn a circle on Jacob's foot for a "safety zone". If any redness spread outside the area we were instructed to go to the ER immediately. By 2pm, after the 2nd dose of antibiotics and 1 round of Ibuprofen, Jacob's temperature had jumped. I took his temp and it was 105.4* F. He was laying on the couch shivering like crazy. I have never seen him so sick. I called the Dr. immediately knowing this was not an appropriate temperature considering the meds he had taken. The nurse called me back 2 hours later instructing me to make a gut call, either go to the ER or call your family DR. That is what she said. Two completely different ends of the spectrum. I chose to call the family Dr. first. It took a while for them to get back to me, because they really have no record of Jacob other than a typical physical. By this time I had administered 800mg of Ibuprofen to bring the fever down; it had come down to 99.0. The nurse told me if the fever goes higher than 99 again to go straight to the ER. Just before bedtime, I took Jacob's temp again, it was 98.9. So we decided to go to bed and if the fever woke him or the pain in his foot woke him, we would go to the ER; otherwise wait til morning when we could put kids on the school bus and get a sitter. The foot itself was still just looking bruised and the redness had not traveled outside the "safety zone."<br />
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I slept with one eye and one ear on call all night. My mind was not asleep because I was praying all night long for my husband to be ok. I know God heard my prayers.<br />
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At 6:00am, our alarm went off. Immediately I reached for Jacob's forehead and found it to be warmer than what I thought it should be. I told him "you have a fever." Let me see your foot. I rolled the blanket away, and saw what I knew was not good at all. Jacob's foot had swelled to 3x normal size all the way up past his ankle. It appeared as though he had stepped in 6 inches of red Kool-aid. There were 2 lines running up his leg to his knee as though someone took a Crayola marker and drew a road. I immediately told him we are going to the hospital. I got the kids up and ready for school. And made a few phone calls before I got a sitter. Then I took his temp and it was 102.7. We left our house at 7:15am to go to the hospital after dropping our kids off with a friend. We were not sure what was going to happen next.<br />
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We arrived at the hospital and were brought to a triage room where the nurse took vitals. Jacob's blood pressure (BP) was much higher than normal. His temp was still hovering at 102.7 and he could not walk at all. Once we were placed in a curtain room, nurses came to draw blood. They took 3 sites to find blood first, and then had a hard time vacuuming it out. Jacob was getting a little tired of being a pin cushion. The ER Dr. came in about an hour after we got there. He told us that without the bloodwork he could not determine what had caused the problem, or what type of infection it was, just that it obviously was not responsive to the antibiotics and he had Cellulitis as a complication in addition. He felt it best to admit Jacob to the hospital for observation til the bloodwork came back and to administer IV antibiotics to see which one the infection would be responsive to. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thursday, March 8, 2012 9:30am</td></tr>
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Bracelets on. Name and birthdate at the tip of the tongue. A little anxiety in our hearts. We started a journey I will never forget. Here is a picture of the foot that morning.<br />
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To be continued...~Abbey~http://www.blogger.com/profile/09008782613748167856noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212924717030034957.post-35067900330772541402012-05-11T07:03:00.002-07:002012-05-11T07:03:26.492-07:00My Mom, according to Corbett!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1k7kqUMBl_BgLFML_mtarr-b2hHl_d_QGfvLt0kUdmIH4XjvTRhz194R6tMqJh4n7zTjAjzgzam_raxmcFAs8DSzjqHK-qAOwyegWPBYL5JrVbDMdEUYJ7zc6rEYmzQEEw0RoLmUCehE/s1600/EAster+016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1k7kqUMBl_BgLFML_mtarr-b2hHl_d_QGfvLt0kUdmIH4XjvTRhz194R6tMqJh4n7zTjAjzgzam_raxmcFAs8DSzjqHK-qAOwyegWPBYL5JrVbDMdEUYJ7zc6rEYmzQEEw0RoLmUCehE/s320/EAster+016.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="color: blue;">This one took days to complete because trying to get an answer from a 2.5 year old is nearly impossible! (hence, his answer to #1...that made me laugh!) They are so NOT focused at this age on anything that a parent wants them to focus on at the moment! </span><br />
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1. What is something Mommy always says to you? <span style="color: #3d85c6;">NO, answer question!</span><br />
2. What makes Mommy happy? <span style="color: #3d85c6;">this happy, and he smiles! :)</span><br />
3. What makes Mommy sad? <span style="color: #3d85c6;">because</span><br />
4. How old is Mommy? <span style="color: #3d85c6;">1</span><br />
5. How tall is Mommy? <span style="color: #3d85c6;">1</span><br />
6. What was Mommy like as a child? <span style="color: #3d85c6;">sad, but now you a big girl</span><br />
7. How does Mommy make you laugh?<span style="color: blue;"> do like this...hahaha (he pretends to laugh)</span><br />
8. What is Mommy's favorite thing to do?<span style="color: blue;"> play with my toys</span><br />
9. What does Mommy do when you are not around? <span style="color: #3d85c6;">be sad til I come back</span><br />
10. What is Mommy's favorite food? <span style="color: blue;">black food like chicken</span><br />
11. What is Mommy very good at? <span style="color: blue;">not eating</span><br />
12. What is Mommy not very good at? <span style="color: blue;">fixing supper</span><br />
13. If Mommy became famous, what would it be for? N/A<br />
14. What is Mommy's job? <span style="color: blue;">play with your toys</span><br />
15. What makes you proud of Mommy? N/A<br />
16. What is your favorite thing to do with Mommy? <span style="color: blue;">play with me</span><br />
17. How are you and Mommy the same? <span style="color: blue;">black hair</span><br />
18. How are you and Mommy different? N/A<br />
19. Where is Mommy's favorite place to go? <span style="color: blue;">at the grocery store</span><br />
20. If Mommy was a cartoon character, who would she be? N/A<br />
21. How do you know Mommy loves you? <span style="color: blue;">umm, I don't know</span>~Abbey~http://www.blogger.com/profile/09008782613748167856noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212924717030034957.post-34069118538015589862012-05-09T15:56:00.001-07:002012-05-09T15:56:33.253-07:00My Mom, according to Cameron!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuFoHf2NWAcHFdbpLqRYqbYpktrFZOTDvqIFGkf7TR_yGlnWAj7VWHgpWzHr2x32tyWyaEvRnrkGnuUO6yF22LS3RWp4viddwdSUjtHf9k6HSida6kH7D29CeqODrgXo3ni-or5N9uxMk/s1600/EAster+018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuFoHf2NWAcHFdbpLqRYqbYpktrFZOTDvqIFGkf7TR_yGlnWAj7VWHgpWzHr2x32tyWyaEvRnrkGnuUO6yF22LS3RWp4viddwdSUjtHf9k6HSida6kH7D29CeqODrgXo3ni-or5N9uxMk/s320/EAster+018.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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1. What is something Mommy always says to you? <span style="color: yellow;">I love you</span><br />
2. What makes Mommy happy? <span style="color: yellow;">Obeying</span><br />
3. What makes Mommy sad? <span style="color: yellow;">Disobeying</span><br />
4. How old is Mommy? <span style="color: yellow;">21</span><br />
5. How tall is Mommy? <span style="color: yellow;">21 points</span><br />
6. What was Mommy like as a child? <span style="color: yellow;">you were a mermaid!</span><br />
7. How does Mommy make you laugh? <span style="color: yellow;">Tickles me</span><br />
8. What is Mommy's favorite thing to do? <span style="color: yellow;">go on a date with me!</span><br />
9. What does Mommy do when you are not around? <span style="color: yellow;">be sad</span><br />
10. What is Mommy's favorite food? <span style="color: yellow;">chicken</span><br />
11. What is Mommy very good at? <span style="color: yellow;">fixing supper</span><br />
12. What is Mommy not very good at?<span style="color: yellow;">swinging on the swings</span><br />
13. If Mommy became famous, what would it be for? <span style="color: yellow;">Super-duper Mama!</span><br />
14. What is Mommy's job? <span style="color: yellow;">watching kids</span><br />
15. What makes you proud of Mommy? <span style="color: yellow;">you tickle me</span><br />
16. What is your favorite thing to do with Mommy? <span style="color: yellow;">play my Legos with you</span><br />
17. How are you and Mommy the same? <span style="color: yellow;">the same eyes, hair and feet</span><br />
18. How are you and Mommy different? <span style="color: yellow;">I have blue eyes, and you have green eyes</span><br />
19. Where is Mommy's favorite place to go? <span style="color: yellow;">to the grocery store</span><br />
20. If Mommy was a cartoon character, who would she be? <span style="color: yellow;">A super mommy</span><br />
21. How do you know Mommy loves you? <span style="color: yellow;">get me hugs and kisses</span><br />
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<span style="color: yellow;">CAMERON age 4 </span>~Abbey~http://www.blogger.com/profile/09008782613748167856noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212924717030034957.post-28794266060587479552012-05-09T15:50:00.000-07:002012-05-09T15:50:05.947-07:00My Mom, according to Candice<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFgAAIq3LYqCbalU98M1aj52eiDdJbqUxLLzNnSbYtVQblzuGt_1EkwmqR2BFqflgEf4yWifusgK1VEH3w8u3Uog352qt8k5xvPP5aU8lPiAwudwIvrirN7KQNpdcBuwyIU3WdWkRrogc/s1600/foot+043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="291" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFgAAIq3LYqCbalU98M1aj52eiDdJbqUxLLzNnSbYtVQblzuGt_1EkwmqR2BFqflgEf4yWifusgK1VEH3w8u3Uog352qt8k5xvPP5aU8lPiAwudwIvrirN7KQNpdcBuwyIU3WdWkRrogc/s320/foot+043.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
1. What is something Mommy always says to you? <span style="background-color: blue;"></span><span style="color: magenta;">I love you.</span><br />
2. What makes Mommy happy? <span style="color: magenta;">When we obey.</span><br />
3. What makes Mommy sad? <span style="color: magenta;">When we don't do what you say.</span><br />
4. How old is Mommy? <span style="color: magenta;">30</span><br />
5. How tall is Mommy? <span style="color: magenta;">i don't know</span><br />
6. What was Mommy like as a child? <span style="color: magenta;">Like me!</span><br />
7. How does Mommy make you laugh? <span style="color: magenta;">she does something funny.</span><br />
8. What is Mommy's favorite thing to do? <span style="color: magenta;">Go out with Daddy</span><br />
9. What does Mommy do when you are not around? <span style="color: magenta;">be with Daddy</span><br />
10. What is Mommy's favorite food? <span style="color: magenta;">Summer Shrimp salad</span><br />
11. What is Mommy very good at? <span style="color: magenta;">teaching me</span><br />
12. What is Mommy not very good at? <span style="color: magenta;">There is nothing at all.</span><br />
13. If Mommy became famous, what would it be for? <span style="color: magenta;">Making dinner</span><br />
14. What is Mommy's job? <span style="color: magenta;">to be with us</span><br />
15. What makes you proud of Mommy? <span style="color: magenta;">doing things for me</span><br />
16. What is your favorite thing to do with Mommy? <span style="color: magenta;">go out and watch the plays</span><br />
17. How are you and Mommy the same? <span style="color: magenta;">we are both girls, and we both like to wear make up and drink coffee!</span><br />
18. How are you and Mommy different? <span style="color: magenta;">our hair and eyes are different colors, you have the babies and I have brothers and sisters, you're a grown up and I'm a kid.</span><br />
19. Where is Mommy's favorite place to go? <span style="color: magenta;">Olive Garden</span><br />
20. If Mommy was a cartoon character, who would she be?<span style="color: magenta;"> Barbie</span><br />
21. How do you know Mommy loves you? <span style="color: magenta;">You kiss me and hug me</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: magenta;">CANDICE age 6 </span>~Abbey~http://www.blogger.com/profile/09008782613748167856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212924717030034957.post-87710354887763685102012-05-09T14:18:00.002-07:002012-05-09T14:18:50.068-07:00My Mom, according to Clayton<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_8pYJIEooxfoDJOB1w1WhfkCatLDuhjDKW4r-s0P-vtcLKtX7JkFSp8tdy2bI_GPdX6lLP5817IFTJ96F2zoeJj-0si5vdAhhj0E0BHQa0ies06qLo65TOBaMj4hN7y-nqV-c81GpobI/s1600/car+show+008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_8pYJIEooxfoDJOB1w1WhfkCatLDuhjDKW4r-s0P-vtcLKtX7JkFSp8tdy2bI_GPdX6lLP5817IFTJ96F2zoeJj-0si5vdAhhj0E0BHQa0ies06qLo65TOBaMj4hN7y-nqV-c81GpobI/s320/car+show+008.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
In light of Mother's Day approaching, I thought I would interview my kids with questions about me! I love their responses!<br />
<br />
1. What is something Mommy always says to you? <span style="color: orange;">How's your day at school?</span><span style="color: black;"> </span><br />
2. What makes Mommy happy?<span style="color: orange;"> Giving her stuff</span><br />
3. What makes Mommy sad?<span style="color: orange;"> Disobeying</span><br />
4. How old is Mommy? <span style="color: orange;">32</span><br />
5. How tall is Mommy?<span style="color: orange;"> 6 feet tall</span><br />
6. What was Mommy like as a child?<span style="color: orange;"> Looked a lot like Candice!</span><br />
7. How does Mommy make you laugh? <span style="color: orange;">Tickling me in the right spot.</span><br />
8. What is Mommy's favorite thing to do? <span style="color: orange;">Go out with Daddy</span><br />
9. What does Mommy do when you are not around? <span style="color: orange;">Clean</span><br />
10. What is Mommy's favorite food? <span style="color: orange;">Salad</span><br />
11. What is Mommy very good at? <span style="color: orange;">Cleaning</span><br />
12. What is Mommy not very good at? <span style="color: orange;">Drawing and building Legos</span><br />
13. If Mommy became famous, what would it be for? <span style="color: orange;">Cleaning</span><br />
14. What is Mommy's job? <span style="color: orange;">Take care of our family and give us food!</span><br />
15. What makes you proud of Mommy? <span style="color: orange;">When she gives me mail.</span><br />
16. What is your favorite thing to do with Mommy? <span style="color: orange;">Go on dates</span><br />
17. How are you and Mommy the same? <span style="color: orange;">We love each other.</span><br />
18. How are you and Mommy different? <span style="color: orange;">I am a boy; she is a girl.</span><br />
19. Where is Mommy's favorite place to go? <span style="color: orange;">Olive Garden?</span><br />
20. If Mommy was a cartoon character, who would she be? <span style="color: orange;">Wilma off the Flinstones!</span><br />
21. How do you know Mommy loves you? <span style="color: orange;">Because she cares for me.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: orange;">CLAYTON age 8 </span>~Abbey~http://www.blogger.com/profile/09008782613748167856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212924717030034957.post-84008240028601784912012-04-17T12:13:00.000-07:002012-04-17T12:13:09.317-07:0030 minutes to dinner! (HEALTHY! TOO)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdKoBGnnZAaLXA5JotdWx9irNWiRme3m2ZQ2h1IvzLtcepKF_EEwjqd_I6FwCNt5G81NZHCU79Udz7Cui58ytm-XmMmMiWgm1X7TUq7FEMjSXvG-IrYZrmebDs7PI7A7wezIS6AywM9hQ/s1600/sellfood+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdKoBGnnZAaLXA5JotdWx9irNWiRme3m2ZQ2h1IvzLtcepKF_EEwjqd_I6FwCNt5G81NZHCU79Udz7Cui58ytm-XmMmMiWgm1X7TUq7FEMjSXvG-IrYZrmebDs7PI7A7wezIS6AywM9hQ/s320/sellfood+001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">TUNA NICOISE STOVETOP CASSEROLE</div><div style="text-align: center;">serves 8, Total time 30min</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">INGREDIENTS:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">2 cups couscous</div><div style="text-align: left;">8 small red potatoes, halved or quartered</div><div style="text-align: left;">2 -6oz cans tuna water packed, undrained</div><div style="text-align: left;">1/2 lb frozen green beans, thawed</div><div style="text-align: left;">1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, sliced</div><div style="text-align: left;">juice and zest of 1 lemon</div><div style="text-align: left;">1Tbsp. Dijon Mustard</div><div style="text-align: left;">1 Tbsp. finely diced white onion</div><div style="text-align: left;">1 clove garlic, minced</div><div style="text-align: left;">1 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar</div><div style="text-align: left;">2 tsp. EVOO</div><div style="text-align: left;">2 tsp. minced fresh parsley</div><div style="text-align: left;">sea salt and ground pepper to taste</div><div style="text-align: left;">Olive oil cooking spray</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Directions:</div><div style="text-align: left;">1. Cook couscous according to package.</div><div style="text-align: left;">2. Over MD-High heat, bring a medium size pan filled with water to boil. Cook potatoes for 10 minutes; drain. In Large cowl, mix together tuna, green beans, olives and potatoes. Once couscous is cooked, mix it into tuna-vegetable mixture.</div><div style="text-align: left;">3. In medium bowl, whisk together lemon juice, zest, Dijon, onion, garlic, vinegar, parsley, salt and pepper. Pour over tuna mixture.</div><div style="text-align: left;">4. Heat large nonstick skillet over HIGH heat for 1 minute. Reduce heat to medium-high, mist with cooking spray and saute' tuna-couscous mixture for about 5 minutes or intil well warmed. Remove from heat and serve immediately. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Nutrition per 1 cup serving: calories: 430, total fat: 6g, sat fat: 1g, carbs: 70g, fiber: 11g, sugars, 4g, protein: 25g, sodium: 350mg, cholesterol: 15mg</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">PS: I HIGHLY recommend the cookbook I got this recipe out of! <a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Best-Clean-Eating-Mouthwatering/dp/1552100855" target="_blank">THE BEST OF CLEAN EATING</a> It has great divisions, Quick & Easy to Budget friendly, to Holiday meals or weekly meal plans!</div>~Abbey~http://www.blogger.com/profile/09008782613748167856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212924717030034957.post-31472475302965150512012-03-23T20:28:00.000-07:002012-03-23T20:28:16.492-07:00Hold Fast!As we go through trials and tests, God brings songs to mind. Here are the lyrics to the one on my heart tonight. You can hear it <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Hny-xp4k9c" target="_blank">here</a>, if you prefer.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Hold Fast</div><div style="text-align: center;">(MercyMe)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">To everyone who's hurting<br />
To those who've had enough<br />
To all the undeserving<br />
That should cover all of us<br />
Please do not let go<br />
I promise there is hope<br />
<br />
Hold fast<br />
Help is on the way<br />
Hold fast<br />
He's come to save the day<br />
What I've learned in my life<br />
One thing greater than my strife<br />
Is His grasp<br />
So hold fast<br />
<br />
Will this season ever pass?<br />
Can we stop this ride?<br />
Will we see the sun at last?<br />
Or could this be our lot in life?<br />
Please do not let go<br />
I promise you there's hope<br />
<br />
Hold fast<br />
Help is on the way<br />
Hold fast<br />
He's come to save the day<br />
What I've learned in my life<br />
One thing greater than my strife<br />
Is Your grasp<br />
So hold fast<br />
<br />
You may think you're all alone<br />
And there's no way that anyone could know<br />
What you're going through<br />
But if you only hear one thing<br />
Just understand that we are all the same<br />
Searching for the truth<br />
The truth of what we're soon to face<br />
Unless someone comes to take our place<br />
Is there anyone?<br />
All we want is to be free<br />
Free from our captivity, Lord<br />
Here He comes<br />
<br />
Hold fast<br />
Help is on the way<br />
Hold fast<br />
He's come to save the day<br />
What I've learned in my life<br />
One thing greater than my strife<br />
Is Your grasp<br />
So hold fast<br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>~Abbey~http://www.blogger.com/profile/09008782613748167856noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212924717030034957.post-85552654498832588542012-03-21T13:59:00.000-07:002012-03-21T13:59:01.596-07:00Yummy, Cheesecake!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK-u2OaEvBq_CqKgpdtoUHGgMrQpuboc5TwirLmxmWR-_x2FsKf2NESJIFbOHRD4V61WQ5IFat0SVkiTj0PrWjRR1UHJeKRi10LMd8N2PiayYwQXLbwhUGS61s1ZQfsjJE6kJqPt1kQjM/s1600/cheesecake.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK-u2OaEvBq_CqKgpdtoUHGgMrQpuboc5TwirLmxmWR-_x2FsKf2NESJIFbOHRD4V61WQ5IFat0SVkiTj0PrWjRR1UHJeKRi10LMd8N2PiayYwQXLbwhUGS61s1ZQfsjJE6kJqPt1kQjM/s1600/cheesecake.JPG" /></a></div>We LOVE cheesecake here! So far our favorites have been at pretty fancy restaurants. BUT this week, my good friend, Dusty, made one from scratch for our family! What a TREAT!! It was SO tasty; I asked her if I could share the recipe with you all! It's a must try! You can see in the picture how great it looks, so hop on over to her blog, <a href="http://reachtothemoonandback.blogspot.com/2012/03/white-chocolate-raspberry-cheesecake.html" target="_blank">To The Moon and Back</a>, and see the recipe yourself! Try it out and spoil your family and friends just like Dusty did for me! You could even change up the flavor a bit if you don't care for raspberry, but I am sure you will LOVE it just like we did!~Abbey~http://www.blogger.com/profile/09008782613748167856noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212924717030034957.post-2645349690775049722012-02-12T18:13:00.000-08:002012-02-12T18:13:13.294-08:00Proud Parent momentCandice was baptized today at our new church, Emmanuel Baptist Church! We are thrilled to see her following the Spirit's prompting in her life. She was very excited also. After she was finished, I wrapped a towel around her and she said "Can I sing up in front now?" I am excited that she is excited to serve the Lord!<br />
Can you believe i forgot my camera!? I asked a lady to take pictures with her Blackberry, I figured it was better than nothing! oye! (On another note, Cameron has been talking alot about being saved. She understands the parts of it, but can't piece it all together yet. The Lord is working on her heart! Please pray for her!)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1nghhxo1O1Qr9Ys-XApnjV7RC5kdmktxvZ5vZ2LgpGytXcpuTRdrOureMYUI9uTrPLDl8hNw8Gv6B0UeWid9J2xJtHne4E1RCj_dTRSZ6wUN_k7EVrGJQVEfvqWHqNBmed8AjDwRle1c/s1600/IMG-20120212-00015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="281" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1nghhxo1O1Qr9Ys-XApnjV7RC5kdmktxvZ5vZ2LgpGytXcpuTRdrOureMYUI9uTrPLDl8hNw8Gv6B0UeWid9J2xJtHne4E1RCj_dTRSZ6wUN_k7EVrGJQVEfvqWHqNBmed8AjDwRle1c/s320/IMG-20120212-00015.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVx-PLUGhwmjEUsUjHzWxHbkSzE9aQWBIj6ZVnVL8xMN-BoKx7vICvjN7zSJtwP7nS1LWje-VE8644DSW141Y3CnsnHJsaW7-LyGPJiFVEqb3_pmd3-XHeQL7d1cYe65gnA6u4p91CQe0/s1600/IMG-20120212-00014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVx-PLUGhwmjEUsUjHzWxHbkSzE9aQWBIj6ZVnVL8xMN-BoKx7vICvjN7zSJtwP7nS1LWje-VE8644DSW141Y3CnsnHJsaW7-LyGPJiFVEqb3_pmd3-XHeQL7d1cYe65gnA6u4p91CQe0/s320/IMG-20120212-00014.jpg" width="294" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhIVucToYDnUOfPPBT3Mcjq3HqP_W0qeTueLWKXQuGQdWB40FXW4g8YSYD_IWfxmf86Q5YnTy0TAQumuoyUDUtsGYSMPD1XknTbnVIPejhcaOLP4LcuKoUTZy5-pjNQjVSwP9ceG637x0/s1600/IMG-20120212-00013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhIVucToYDnUOfPPBT3Mcjq3HqP_W0qeTueLWKXQuGQdWB40FXW4g8YSYD_IWfxmf86Q5YnTy0TAQumuoyUDUtsGYSMPD1XknTbnVIPejhcaOLP4LcuKoUTZy5-pjNQjVSwP9ceG637x0/s320/IMG-20120212-00013.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>~Abbey~http://www.blogger.com/profile/09008782613748167856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212924717030034957.post-43183966396309617122012-02-06T10:49:00.000-08:002012-02-06T10:49:13.787-08:00Is this Gross?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRbgmhooxhyphenhyphenZajXcfk_5rk5O0A4eSqDi34UFhZVz89X8Q0ZUZyZqBsolmbGEN3UC2-uqMSOQGzxvFnOBUDVyL37rBKwpqP89PxvMc7mbwysr3n52YaEQ4HUmUzVEMngNYwiU0vaT3opE4/s1600/projects+003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRbgmhooxhyphenhyphenZajXcfk_5rk5O0A4eSqDi34UFhZVz89X8Q0ZUZyZqBsolmbGEN3UC2-uqMSOQGzxvFnOBUDVyL37rBKwpqP89PxvMc7mbwysr3n52YaEQ4HUmUzVEMngNYwiU0vaT3opE4/s320/projects+003.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>You see that white mark WAY DOWN under her tongue? yeah that's an adult tooth! Candice is the BIGGEST drama queen, so completing the task of getting the baby tooth loose is not exactly a cup of tea! The Dentist is seeing her next week to yank it if she hasn't pulled it by then. Good Grief! This should be interesting, huh?! I really feel bad for her though, its rubbing a sore on the bottom of her tongue. I just never knew that your tooth could grow in THAT far back. Its right on the edge of the soft tissue. YUCK! The top tooth that is gone just fell out about 2 weeks ago. its her 3rd one gone. She cried when it fell out because she was SO happy! HA! She is funny!~Abbey~http://www.blogger.com/profile/09008782613748167856noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212924717030034957.post-79412892214548104892012-02-04T05:19:00.000-08:002012-02-04T05:19:53.821-08:00I hope you LOVE garlic!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVAjdgIUECCxOEPOJIOcoZr3qOjoWriSvjbdNO0qx_Nuvx4fTirGctnM9YCXqp7paitQCNB2fd7j2i1oS7jxYLK7XZj_TAkp8t-o3yPUmED3IUW8937Fh_DJ1ICcYEE-gdAgK-12UCZAo/s1600/projects+008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVAjdgIUECCxOEPOJIOcoZr3qOjoWriSvjbdNO0qx_Nuvx4fTirGctnM9YCXqp7paitQCNB2fd7j2i1oS7jxYLK7XZj_TAkp8t-o3yPUmED3IUW8937Fh_DJ1ICcYEE-gdAgK-12UCZAo/s320/projects+008.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Simple and Tasty and ECONOMICAL...that's what I love in a recipe, and here is one at its finest! The great thing about this recipe is that you can tailor it very easily to your family's tastes! My kids loved this as much as my husband and I did! (That makes it an A+)<br />
<br />
<u>PORK CHOPS:</u><br />
Crockpot: 4-5 lean pork chops (bone in or out, doesn't matter they FALL apart!)<br />
Give it a good coating of basil, garlic, oregano, pepper, and a dash of salt.<br />
about 1/2 cup water (pour along sides so you don't wash away spices)<br />
1/2 of onion chopped<br />
1-2 tomatoes chopped up, or use cherry tomatoes<br />
Cook on LOW 6-8 hours.<br />
<br />
<br />
**While your hands are dirty and you are prepping, go ahead and cut veggies for dinner and save some time later! This means when you are ready to eat, dinner will be started and finished within 15 minutes!!**<br />
<br />
(Note: Did you know every time you lift the lid on your crock to stir or get a good sniff, it takes 25 minutes for the temp to return! So leave that lid alone!)<br />
<br />
<u>PASTA with Broccoli & Garlic:</u><br />
1 good head of broccoli, cut into bite size<br />
1 medium onion, chopped<br />
*Blanch broccoli and onion together* Remove from water and set aside, reserving liquid to use later.<br />
1 -14oz can diced tomato, no salt<br />
3+ cloves fresh garlic, diced very small, or put through a press<br />
1/4 c. Olive oil<br />
~1lb pasta, cooked and drained. <br />
<br />
Boil water for noodles. (I used penne pasta, try the whole wheat!)<br />
When boiling cook noodles according to directions. (1 box was a little too much for our family, adjust accordingly) <br />
<br />
In large sauce pan, saute' garlic in olive oil, til the garlic smell is WONDERFUL. DON'T BROWN GARLIC, it will get bitter!<br />
Add broccoli, onion, tomatoes and about 1/2-1 cup of reserved liquid. Simmer about 15 minutes, adding more liquid if it starts getting dry!<br />
When pasta is al dente', toss into sauce pan meshing all flavors together. I turn off the heat and put a lid on it while I set the table.<br />
<br />
<br />
What grade would you give it? Enjoy!!~Abbey~http://www.blogger.com/profile/09008782613748167856noreply@blogger.com0