tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12266568363987758932024-03-14T02:16:22.479-05:00Simply Talking TalleyI am a full time wife, mommy, business owner and ministries assistant who loves Jesus! I am trying to balance work, home and relationships, all while bringing glory to the name of the Lord. This blog is my way of releasing some energy and just pouring my heart out there! I hope you enjoy!James, Heather, Evan, Emie and Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03587942684281513900noreply@blogger.comBlogger176125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226656836398775893.post-48246182865107159272014-09-30T14:22:00.002-05:002014-09-30T14:22:50.467-05:00Update Coming Soon...Stay tuned! Tomorrow is a new day and a new post shall emerge! Lots to share!!<br />
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<br />James, Heather, Evan, Emie and Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03587942684281513900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226656836398775893.post-36237410033168652282014-06-30T10:05:00.000-05:002014-06-30T10:05:44.615-05:00Is It Beach Time Yet?! Our beach vacation can not get here soon enough! I can't wait to smell the salty air, hear the sea gulls and waves and feel the sunshine on my face!! Ahh!! Why can't I just live at the beach? As much as I love the beach, so does my sweet Evan! He can go down in the morning and not come back up until time to eat. That's my kind of day! I am anxious to see how our little miss does this year. I hope she loves it just the same!<br />
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A few updates:<br />
Evan did great with his tooth removal! He did not even flinch when they gave him the injections. I would have been a basket case, but he was awesome! Dr. Barrett did a wonderful job of talking him through the entire thing. The thing that got to him the most was that his nose went numb as well. LOL. He kept rubbing it, not really sure what was going on! I was prepared for him to be on soft/liquidy foods for a couple of days, but my tough guy was eating potato chips that afternoon! Wha?!?!Yes, potato chips! Here is a pic of him I took just after we got home from the dentist.<br />
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Six month pics of our sweet baby girl are still not completed. It is on my to-do list this afternoon! I will get it done, I will get it done! Maybe if I say it enough, it will really happen! We will see! Emie has this new way of smiling that even gets Evan tickled. She will wrinkle her nose and laugh so hard that she kinda sounds like she is trying to snort. It is the cutest thing! I hope she will make one of these faces in her pics! It is hard to believe that she will be 8 months old tomorrow. Trust me, birthday planning is in full swing! She does not like loud noises, she is fighting her sleep more and more (she is so scared she will miss something), she loves her fruits and vegetables and tonight we are gonna try a sippy cup!<br />
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My visit with Dr. Vaphiades went well. My sidekick Laura went with me (I think we talked the entire way there, while we were there, while eating and all the way home--much needed girl time) and I was so thankful to have her tag along. Dr. Vaphiades decided that because of some swelling of my right optic nerve, and after reviewing the results from my vision field test (this is the test that I despise!!), I needed to be placed back on my medication. With this medication comes the icky side effects that I don't care so much for. The tingling in my feet, fingers and lips has returned and so has the change in my taste buds. My most favorite things are not so yummy anymore (I don't guess this is all too bad when needing to shed a pound or two or more). He was very sweet about it all and I go back in 12 weeks for a re-check.<br />
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I must brag on James a little. Since I am sure he has never read this blog, I think it is safe! Saturday, I wanted to do some deep cleaning of the house...the kind of stuff that never gets done on a regular basis. He took both Evan and Emie to see a movie, to have lunch in the park, then to do some birthday shopping for me. He did not complain, just did it and even seemed to enjoy spending the time with them. I am so thankful to have a husband who does not view taking care of them as "babysitting" his children, but rather just being their daddy! I got a lot accomplished while they were gone. When Evan walked through the door, he asked, "Mommy, what's that smell?" I laughed and replied, "That's the smell of clean, son." Bless him!<br />
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It is birthday week for me and as I reflect back over the past 32 years, I am excited for where I have been and where I am going. God has blessed my life with amazing people along the way and I could not be happier that I get to share the next forever with these loves by my side!!<br />
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Until Next Time...</div>
<br />James, Heather, Evan, Emie and Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03587942684281513900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226656836398775893.post-48042307710018769762014-06-12T15:08:00.001-05:002014-06-12T15:09:31.037-05:00This Summer So Far (Yes, I know we are only in week 3)...Evan seems to be having a good summer so far. His first "school summer!" Bless his heart, since I work outside of the home, his summer get up time is not much different than his school get up time...6:20 am! UGH!<br />
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He enjoyed VBS last week and has had fun at Mimi and Papa's picking blueberries. He enjoys playing outside there and of course watching movies. I think he has had fun being with Emie during the day (even if I can never get him to say it). We both saw the dentist earlier in the week and he sent us to the Orthodontist to see what she recommends about his cross bite. Let me interject here that I know that his smile is quirky and I know that his jaw is crooked when he smiles, but to me it is the most precious smile EVER! I hate for it to change, but I know that it is not healthy for his gums and teeth. With that said, we ventured to her office yesterday where she broke the news that two top teeth and two bottom teeth must be removed. She is then gonna watch his bite till the spring to see if anything needs to be done or if he will need some type of apparatus to help with the cross bite. PLEASE join me in prayer next Thursday morning at 7:30 am as we go to the dentist to have these 4 teeth removed. I do not anticipate this being as easy as I would like for it to be. Poor fella! I do think he will be precious with a toothless grin! ;) He is participating in the Public Library's program here and the first week went well. He enjoyed learning about bees and is excited to go back next week. He has art camp next week and is looking forward to that (I am looking forward to July and going to the beach!!). Evan, Emie and I are enjoying the pool in our neighborhood. He learned to swim last summer and thank goodness he remembers this year! He swims like a fish!! He has learned this year to turn flips under the water.<br />
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Emie continues to do well and just grow and grow. She has no desire to crawl...WHAT.SO.EVER! She is happy being the Queen Bee and having us move her here and there! I still have not done her 6 month pics, what a behind mommy I am. It is a shame seeing I have a photography business and all! lol I hope to get those done this week. She loves the water at the pool. I think she thinks it is just a big bathtub!! She just splashes and splashes!<br />
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James is well. He continues to work...a lot. I guess in his field, there are always those out there to keep you busy. Job security I suppose. Father's Day is this weekend and I hope he enjoys what the kiddos and I got him. I sometimes feel like I bomb in this area, but hopefully this year will be a score! I will let you know how it goes!<br />
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I have my routine check-up with Dr. Vaphiades next Friday. This will be the 2nd one since having Emie. I am anxious to meet with him and see what he thinks about where I am. During my annual visit with my regular eye physician last month, she detected swelling in the optic nerve again. She let me view photos of a normal one and mine and the difference made me cry. She assured me that she has seen mine look worse so that was some comfort. Such is life I suppose!<br />
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I have started a new blog. This one will be topics the Lord lays on my heart and words straight from Him. It is a dream of mine to write a devotional book, so this is a way to get my feet wet I suppose! I hope you will take a moment to stop by and read, possibly become a follower. I hope to update multiple times throughout the week (no promises there-hehe). The website is www.hissomethingbeautiful.blogspot.com.<br />
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Until next time...<br />
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<br />James, Heather, Evan, Emie and Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03587942684281513900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226656836398775893.post-71781734273914198122014-06-04T16:43:00.000-05:002014-06-04T16:43:00.685-05:00Say It Ain't So!!October? Has it REALLY been since October that I last posted? Oh. My. Goodness!! I guess this sweet baby girl has had us really busy!!<br />
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So much has happened. Let me catch everyone up!<br />
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Evan: Evan is a wonderful big brother! It took him some time to decide that she could stay, but he is really enjoying Emie now. He finished his first year of school with flying colors. He loved his teacher, Mrs. Ellis, and I know he will miss her next year. He has lost two teeth and is enjoying his summer so far. He has several things planned to keep him busy, right now he is in VBS and loving every single minute!<br />
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Emie: Emie is growing like a weed! I had forgotten how fast the first year flies by, but man oh man does it! Our little miss is already 7 months old. She has two teeth and absolutely adores her big brother. She is talking (well, baby jabbering) so much and absorbing all that is around her. She is a nosey one! She sleeps all night and is such a good eater. She sits up to play and has the most beautiful big blue eyes!<br />
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James and I: We are both doing well. James is staying busy with work and still loves what he does. I am directing VBS this week and working simultaneously--I know, crazy!! But I would not have it any other way! I am a (almost) 32 year old who LoVeS VBS!!! We just got back from New Orleans. This was our first time back since retrieving our car after hurricane Katrina in 2005. I saw some sights that these sheltered eyes have never seen before!! :) It was fun to just get away just the two of us and spend time walking the streets, holding hands and enjoying one another. We definitely don't spend enough time doing that. Who can with a 5 year old attached to one and a 7 month old attached to the other-lol (we wouldn't trade it for all of the tea in China!)?! I am anxiously awaiting our annual beach trip this year! July can not get here soon enough!!<br />
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I hope it is not another 7 months before my next post!! Hope everyone is doing well!</div>
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<br />James, Heather, Evan, Emie and Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03587942684281513900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226656836398775893.post-10737966132188982222013-10-14T15:49:00.001-05:002013-10-14T15:54:33.706-05:00It's been TOO long!It has been way too long since my last blog. So much has happened!<br />
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First, we have picked a name for our sweet little miss. Her name will be Emellia Reagan and she is scheduled to make her grand arrival on Friday, November 1. We are so excited to meet her and introduce her to our family and friends. It seems as though this pregnancy has gone by so quickly....most days! :)<br />
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Mama has completed her treatments for breast cancer...both chemotherapy and radiation. This is such a blessing! She is bouncing back and getting stronger a little more and more each and every day. Her hair has started to grow back--which I know she is thankful for. She continues to take her Herceptin treatment once every three weeks, but this is nothing compared to the weekly chemotherapy she was on. We are praising God for bringing our Mama and family through the past year. He has held her in His hand and guided her each step of the way. We are so thankful for her physicians and nurses and for the care that they have provided. Now, on to the good stuff!<br />
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Evan has started school and is loving it. His teacher, Mrs. Ellis, is truly a blessing. She gives him a hug each day and makes him feel just as special as he is! She has 3 boys of her own (all of which are grown now) so she knows how to handle 110% boy! He is doing well with his studies and is making new friends. He seems to be pretty well rounded, which is all we can ask. He loves Jesus and wants everyone he knows to know about Him. That makes this Mama proud! His smile is contagious and his laughter is inviting. He brings a smile to my heart with just a simple glance, tug of my hand or hug around my neck.<br />
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We have gone on his first field trip--complete with his first ride on a yellow school bus. He thought it was great...but HOT! He tickles me. The pumpkin patch is always a lot of fun, but it was especially fun to see him enjoy it with his new found friends.<br />
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I am excited for him to meet Emie for the first time, but yet a little nervous at the same time. He has been our world for the past 5 years, and not that that will change, but it will be a little different. I know she is going to love him!<br />
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Pink eye invaded out home for 2 weeks and let me just tell you it was NO fun! One week Evan had it in both eyes (the joys of starting school and sharing EVERYTHING!) and then the following week, I had it. I am still wearing my glasses and have just now started wearing eye make-up again. I have felt so "undone" without my eyes made up! lol I think we are on the mend! Now, if we can just keep James from having it. For those of you who know him, this will come as no surprise...he has gone behind both Evan and me with Lysol wipes, cleaning everything and putting sanitizer in our hands every chance he has. We jokingly call him Mr. Clean, but I am sure this is how he will stay germ (and pink eye) free. God love him!<br />
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I met with Dr. V for the last time before Emie makes her arrival and he was pleased with our visit. He was impressed that I had made it this far in the pregnancy, still working and with very few problems. I am coming off of the Diamox this Friday, so I ask that you join me in prayer that everything goes well over the following 2 weeks and that optic nerves will remain normal in size. Friday, he said that they looked perfect and that he felt very comfortable with me coming off the meds this week. This will give us two weeks to clean my system of the meds so that breast feeding is an option. As long as I can stay off of the meds, I can breast feed. This is very important to me. I want what is best for our little girl, but I also understand that I have to take care of me too. I am doing no one any good if I am sick. God has this and that I am sure of!<br />
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I have a couple of prayer requests:<br />
1. Please pray for Evan. Pray that God will prepare his heart to love his sister and know that we love him--that that love is only gonna grow as he steps into his new role and the big brother.<br />
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2. Please pray for James as we prepare our home for this new addition. Pray that his heart will be ready to be filled with even more love than he has ever known as he meets his daughter for the very first time.<br />
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3. Please pray for James and me as a couple and as parents. That we will grow stronger together as we add another special gift to our clan. That we are able to balance 2 children and that we continue to keep Christ the center of our marriage, family and home. That we will make Him proud in the decisions that are made when it comes to the treasures that He has entrusted in our hands. We know that they belong to Him, that He is giving them to us but for only a short time to love on, care for and disciple.<br />
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4. Please pray for me this Friday as this will be my first day off of the Diamox in some time. Please join me in praying that my optic nerves will remain normal in size and that side effects will remain at bay so that breast feeding will be an option.<br />
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Until next time...James, Heather, Evan, Emie and Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03587942684281513900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226656836398775893.post-64016627519428250362013-07-03T15:52:00.000-05:002013-07-03T15:52:11.859-05:00Back to Dr. V!The swelling has returned! POO!<br />
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The thing with this pseudotumor is, we knew the symptoms would return with pregnancy, it was just a matter of when. Well you guessed it, Happy Birthday to me...the symptoms are back! About a week ago, the headaches began. At first I was questioning whether they were pregnancy related or if they could indeed be pseudotumor headaches. Well, about 4 days ago, the neck pain returned so I knew for sure that it was the latter. Over the past couple of days, I have noticed an increase in my spinal pressure, especially when I go from sitting to standing or most certainly if I bend over. With the long weekend approaching, we felt it was best if I go ahead and call Dr. V.<br />
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I spoke with him on the phone yesterday and he asked if I could be in his office this morning. James and I left home around 6:50 and headed to Birmingham.<br />
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After a quick look, Dr. V decided to fully dilate and have me undergo another field vision test. This test really gets under my skin. It frustrates me and drives me batty. Watching all of these lights, some dim, some bright, some big, some small, all over place and <i>trying</i> to focus all so that I can ding a little button....aarrgghhh! Anyway, back to the story. Once the test was completed he (Dr. V) conducted yet another exam of my eyes. He confirmed that the right optic nerve is swollen some and the left is flat with a cusp (Now I know you are asking what this cusp means, I have no idea. I guess I should have asked!). We then moved to talking about treatments and options.<br />
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There are 3 treatment options. Two which are available to me:<br />
1. Deal with the pain until the pregnancy is over and hopefully with the weight loss from having the baby, the pain will subside. Option available. To date: 8 lb increase, but I did not think about until today that pregnancy brings about an increase in blood, in pressure and fluids. I have been so focused on trying not to gain too much in hopes to keep from having the symptoms that I did not even think about these factors.<br />
2. A Spinal Tap to drain the fluid to release some of the pressure. Option not available at this time due to pregnancy and the baby having to be exposed to a X-Ray.<br />
3. Begin taking the Diamox once again. Option available.<br />
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Now, if you will remember back in the early stages of my diagnosis and treatment plan, it was not recommended that I be on this medication during the first trimester of a pregnancy. The good news is, I am 22 weeks and 1 day into this pregnancy. I have such an uneasy feeling about this decision. James and I are going to take the weekend, pray about it and be ready to talk it over with Dr. Ashurst Tuesday. Dr. V assured me today that he would not advise me to take something that he felt in any way would harm the baby. He said that he feels like she will be just fine since it is so far into the pregnancy, but this Mama's heart is still uneasy. I would not have to take it daily, but it's still medication.<br />
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So, I have some prayer requests for my mighty prayer warriors out there! We knew this would happen, but more importantly, God knew (He even knew the exact date of the symptom return). My prayer requests are that James and I will be put at ease with this decision on what to do. That Dr. Ashurst will know what to say and do to best treat me and care for our Little Miss. That I will be able to withstand the pain from my neck, head and spine--as much as possible without medication. And that this precious cargo I am carrying will remain healthy and strong for the remaining 18 weeks. Thanks in advance for the prayers!<br />
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Until next time...James, Heather, Evan, Emie and Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03587942684281513900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226656836398775893.post-19232391164138250952013-06-20T09:22:00.002-05:002013-06-20T09:24:49.797-05:00It's A GIRL!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This past weekend, James prepared a wonderful cake that revealed the gender of our sweet little one. As you can see in the pictures above, we will welcome a sweet baby girl to the Talley home this Fall. We are so excited! Evan is even excited talking about his baby sister. It's nice to hear him wanting to talk about her and the things to come. Now, on to picking a name!!</div>
<br />James, Heather, Evan, Emie and Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03587942684281513900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226656836398775893.post-11578555559704587952013-06-17T14:23:00.001-05:002013-06-17T14:23:40.951-05:00A Few CluesThe gender of our sweet little one will be revealed soon...but for all wondering minds, here are a few clues for you to ponder:<br />
Is the baby's heartbeat above 140? <span style="color: #ea9999;">Yes</span><br />
Are you moody or happy? <span style="color: #3d85c6;">Happy</span><br />
What are you craving-salty or sweet?<span style="color: #3d85c6;"> </span><span style="color: #ea9999;">Sweet</span><br />
Sleeping on your right or left side? <span style="color: #3d85c6;">Left</span><br />
Has there been morning sickness? <span style="color: #ea9999;">ALL Day!</span><br />
Hair shiny and full of body? <span style="color: #3d85c6;">Yes</span><br />
How's the skin- clear or broken out? <span style="color: #ea9999;">Broken Out</span><br />
Had a lot of headaches? <span style="color: #6fa8dc;">Yes</span><br />
Craving orange juice? <span style="color: #ea9999;">Yes</span><br />
Daddy gaining weight? <span style="color: #3d85c6;">No</span><br />
Been clumsy or graceful? <span style="color: #3d85c6;">Clumsy</span><br />
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So, there you have it! What's your guess? What will it be...<br />
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Until next time...James, Heather, Evan, Emie and Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03587942684281513900noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226656836398775893.post-32347769804979065442013-06-12T15:46:00.002-05:002013-06-12T15:46:32.033-05:00We Caught A Glimpse!Yesterday, we had an appointment with Dr. Ashurst to see our little one!! We had an ultrasound done, but only James and the nurse know the sex of the baby. I have chosen to find out this weekend with our family. Surprisingly, it has not been as bad today as I thought. I am managing pretty well!<br />
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The baby looked great and the heartbeat was awesome. It would go from 143-150(ish), so I don't think we will be able to predict a gender by the heartbeat. Dr. Ashurst says that I am carrying the baby like it's a girl, so I guess only time, or James, will tell! :)<br />
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The baby's heart, brain, legs, arms and spine all looked great. With me taking seizure meds, the baby's spine could be affected, so this was a huge point of concern for me. The minute she said that the baby looked "perfect" I was able to rest a little easier.<br />
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Evan was very excited to see the pictures and seemed amazed at how much it has grown. He is still not really a fan of this "new baby" idea. I am hoping that by the time November rolls around, he will be much more on board. I am trying not to let it bother me that he is not thrilled, but as a Mommy, you want your babies to be ok emotionally and I think he just realizes that his world is gonna be rocked upside down!!<br />
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I will post next week and reveal the gender of our sweet little one! Until then, this picture will just have to do!!<br />
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Until next time...<br />
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<br />James, Heather, Evan, Emie and Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03587942684281513900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226656836398775893.post-60594754152299034172013-05-28T15:39:00.002-05:002013-05-28T15:39:39.297-05:00It's Almost June! Whew!I can not believe how quickly this year is flying by. Before I know it, I will be sending my baby to Kindergarten!! Evan's last day at Mrs. Amy's "school" was last Friday, and yes I cried when I dropped him off. What can I say? I am a sap!<br />
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James and I took Evan and our cousin Maci to the Birmingham Zoo yesterday and what fun we had. The zoo there is great! So much to see and do. We left Centreville around 8:15 am and returned around 4:45 pm! Talk about a full day!! Needless to say, we had two sleepy heads in our back seat on the way home! I treasure times like this that we are able to share together. Our little man is growing so fast and I know there is coming a day when we will begin him to want to stay home and spend time with us, not to mention our littlest one will be here before we know! Life as a family of 3 will be no more!!<br />
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Speaking of the baby, our last appointment went well. We were able to hear the baby's heartbeat (beating strong at 153) and Dr. Ashurst was pleased with everything. I had only gained 1 pound, which made this Mama very happy! We will return on Tuesday, June 11, to find out if we will be bouncing in blue or pretty in pink!!<br />
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Things continue to go well with me medically. All of my doctors are pleased with the reports so far and are planning to keep a close eye on me as this baby continues to grow. There has been no need for medicine changes or treatment changes thus far. PTL!!<br />
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Mama continues to push along through her treatments. I wish I could report that energy levels and such have remained steadfast, but not so much. She is finding herself more and more tired and the more tired she becomes, the more frustrated she is. I keep trying to remind her that this is only temporary and that this is not forever. Keeping a positive mindset is so important! I keep trying to push the positive, all the while feeling more and more terrible that I am pushing and pushing her. I hope I am not coming across as insensitive, I know this is hard, but she has to keep going. Pushing through the hard days is what is going to make the end of all this all the sweeter. I know that is what she would do if the tables were turned.<br />
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We continue to press forward, looking to a busy summer filled with VBS, swim lessons and a beach vacation, not to mention room decor changes, cleaning out the baby's room and building a shed to house my photography stuff (have I mentioned that my business is going well? The Lord has really blessed it and confirmed that I am doing the right thing).<br />
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Be on the lookout! We will have a big "pink or blue" announcement in just a couple of weeks!!<br />
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Until next time...James, Heather, Evan, Emie and Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03587942684281513900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226656836398775893.post-5349195911288751432013-04-19T15:26:00.002-05:002013-04-19T15:26:25.843-05:00Growing!We have had two appointments to see Dr. Ashurst since finding out Evan is gonna be a big brother. Our first appointment brought an untrasound, which was so much fun. The baby's little heartbeat was so busy, just a pumping away. The second visit brought the chance to hear it's heartbeat. What a true miracle! The heartbeat was steady and strong and came in at a whopping 160. Now, he says that all baby's heartbeats will be around this at this point, but I think that sounds like a girl to me! :) A girl can wish, can't she?!<br />
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I am feeling nauseous most days and have been sick at least 2-3 days out of the week. Zofran is a friend and stays with me at all times. I have never had sickness that it did not matter if I had eaten or not nor do the kinds of foods matter. When it hits, it hits and boy is it the pits!<br />
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Evan still has NO desire to talk or think about a new baby. All he has on his brain in a new kitten. I sure hope he mellows out before November, or he is gonna be on sad little fella!<br />
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Mama is continuing to do well. Her taste buds are not working just right, so nothing really tastes good, but she is hanging in there. Her weight has been down, then back up, then down again, but for the most part, it is staying balanced. She eats cause she needs to, not because it tastes good!<br />
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I go to see my neurologist at Kirklin next Tuesday, just for a check up.<br />
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That is all for now.<br />
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Until next time...<br />
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<br />James, Heather, Evan, Emie and Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03587942684281513900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226656836398775893.post-73834331555706134132013-03-18T14:48:00.001-05:002013-03-18T14:52:08.633-05:00Never A Dull Moment!Life is never dull around the Talley household! We are just getting used to the idea of my Mom having cancer and all that comes with chemotherapy and then we find out we are expecting baby #2!! I, of course, am hoping for pink and James says no way! Lots of family and friends are wishful for twins and James just thinks that is cruel! We shall have what the Lord thinks is best for our family. I am excited and can't wait to see just what that is.<br />
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Let's get back to the whole cancer thing. Mom found a lump in her right breast back in early January that she knew just felt different than any others before. Let me interject here how important self-checks really are! Her mammogram in November was clear, so if she had waited until time for another, it would have been a whole year. By that time, her prognosis may not have been good. After discovering the lump and a couple of appointments, it was decided that the lump needed to be removed. She went for the lumpectomy and it was determined that it was cancer. Talk about a punch in the gut! I can't imagine how she must have felt to hear the words because I know it made me want to throw up!<br />
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Prognosis is good for Mama. It was caught very early (stage 1) and with few treatments, the dr's feel as though she will make a full recovery and never have to deal with this again! PTL! She has recovered nicely from the lumpectomy and the port placement. Today she told me that she really does not even notice the port anymore.<br />
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On the Tuesday before Mom's first (she will have 6 total followed by 35 radiation treatments) chemo treatment, I found out that we are expecting our second baby! What excitement filled my heart and I knew would bring Mama much needed joy to endure this summer. Something fun to look forward to! Who doesn't get excited about a new baby?! Oh, yeah, Evan is who does not get excited....that's who!<br />
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We decided to tell Evan just before telling my side of the family and let him share the good new with everyone. I had a Big Brother shirt made for him to wear to "spill the beans." When James told him, and I showed him his shirt, he fell back on the bed and began to cry hysterically. He told us that he did not want this to happen...now please remember back just a couple of months ago I shared with you him telling Santa that he wanted "two baby sisters at one time!" Yes, this is the same child! James reminded him of his request and he promptly answered, "I was only kidding."<br />
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Since that day, he has come around and is willing talk to you about the baby if you talk about it in terms of it being a girl. If God blesses us with another boy I am not sure what we are gonna do! Maybe he will get the kitten that his heart truly desires!! :)<br />
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While pregnant with Evan I did not have any sickness and really felt good all of the time, but things have been a little different this time around. I have not "lost my lunch" at all, but the feeling that I could blow at any moment comes and sticks around most all day. My energy level is not what it used to be, but I have heard that all of this means the pregnancy is normal.<br />
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I am anxious for our first appointment and announcement of our official due date. According to the Internet, we should be looking at early November. We will see what Dr. Ashurst has to say!<br />
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A few prayer requests:<br />
Mom mentioned today that she has some sores on her head. Please be in prayer that these will heal quickly. She also talked about her mouth feeling like it is on fire and her digestive tract has been affected by the chemo. These are all normal side effects, but uncomfortable nonetheless.<br />
This pregnancy. My pseudotumor side effects are triggered by weight gain and we all know that weight gain comes with pregnancy, so please join us in prayer that these side effects will remain at bay and that the pregnancy will be a healthy one.<br />
I am taking medication for my epilepsy, so please pray that this medication will not harm the growth and development of our tiniest blessing as it grows in the months to come. I (and James) will feel much better when we can look at the screen and see our little one and know that all is well!<br />
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Until Next Time...James, Heather, Evan, Emie and Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03587942684281513900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226656836398775893.post-15507094173702155662013-01-31T13:00:00.001-06:002013-01-31T13:00:09.471-06:00Sit. Wait. Learn.Sitting and waiting is sometimes the hardest thing to do. I am learning, as I sit and wait, that those are precious moments that are meant to be spent in prayer. Drawing closer to God has become a priority in my life and what a change it has made.<br />
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There are many aspects of life that can cause a person to have to sit and wait. We wait in line for our food. We sit and wait to see the doctor. We wait to have procedures (most of the time longer that we wish). We sit and wait as loved ones have procedures. We wait for our kids in the school line. We wait to get pregnant. We wait for those babies to grow so that we can meet them. We wait for the day we can see loved ones again who have gone before us. We wait for our babies to talk. We wait for them to learn it's ok to be quiet. We wait for our "better half" to pop the question. We wait for the day we say "I Do!" We wait to for a diagnosis. We wait to finish school-just to go to college. We wait to turn 21 (what does that mean, really?!), We wait to earn a degree. We wait to land a job. We wait to own our first home. We wait to see if medications will work. We wait for brighter days. We wait beside the bed of sick loved ones. We wait for heartache to go away. We wait.<br />
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I am an instant gratification kind of girl, so waiting has not always been my strongest asset. I must add, that I have learned to lean on the One who holds the control panel and takes the lead. I know in my heart that all things work according to His will and in due time, I will have to wait no longer. Answered prayers are hard to wait for and sometimes we get the answer, but because it is not the one we want, we choose to ignore it.<br />
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I don't understand the reason events take place the way they do. I don't understand why people come and go from our lives the way they do. I don't understand why there are cruel people in this world. There is so much that I can not wrap my head around. What I DO understand is that there is a loving God who cares and loves me (and you) so!! He knows my every thought and my every action, even before I do. He allows me to love (and love passionately), and to hurt. He allows me to question and understand. He allows me chances to make my own decisions and opportunities for me to learn from my mistakes. He allows me time to sit and wait and in that waiting, hopefully learn more of His goodness.<br />
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There is so much that I yearn to know. There are so many aspects in my life where I look forward to growing. Growing closer to Him and learning more about Him excites me every day. I am anxious to see what He wants to teach me in my coming years. There are things that He wants me to know - things about my husband James, Evan, my family, and yes, even more that he wants to teach me about myself.<br />
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As I sit and wait, I will trust in the Lord! Take a moment as you sit and wait today (you know you will at some point) and spend some quality time with Him. He wants to hear from you.<br />
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Prayer Requests:<br />
*Mrs. Marta is a dear friend who treats me like I am part of her own family. She will be having surgery tomorrow to remove a tumor that has attached itself to her skull. As you can imagine, she is scared. I am sure her family is terrified. Please join me in prayer that she will be comforted and feel the peace from the Lord. Please pray for her doctor--that he will rest well tonight and have steady hands for the surgery. Please lift her family as they "sit and wait" to hear the news post-surgery. Please pray that we as her friends are able to minister to her as the Lord would have us to. That we would be the hands and feet of Jesus.<br />
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*Special Unspoken<br />
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Until Next Time...James, Heather, Evan, Emie and Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03587942684281513900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226656836398775893.post-47985479285327988562013-01-21T16:04:00.003-06:002013-01-21T16:08:12.647-06:00Recovering and Preparing!Well, Christmas has come and gone (even though the inside of my house is still decorated) and we are now preparing for a Valentine's Day wedding. That's right! My baby brother Heath is tying the knot! We are so happy for him and Christina. I am thrilled to be gaining a new sister. I am including some of their engagement photos from their session a couple of weekends ago. It was so much fun! I am looking forward to her bridal shoot and the wedding day. I must say, going shopping for new clothes for the festivities has been a lot of fun!<br />
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Medical Update: Things are on the up and up with me. I had a great appointment with Dr. Vaphiades a couple of weeks ago. I had to undergo another field vision test because it had been almost a year since my last and I must have done ok, he did not mention anything negative about it. He did however comment on the fact that I look thinner! Now that will make any girl's day! I don't have to go back until July!! Yea! I can not say enough of how I know God has been in the middle of all of this the entire time. He has brought these amazing people into my life who have been blessed with medical knowledge to know just what to look at and how to treat it-just when I needed it the most. I am so thankful for His intervention and His guidance since day one. It's funny how when faced with situations that can make you feel so gloom, God can make you feel joyful, just knowing He is in control. It does no good to be fearful, He holds it all in His hands anyway.<br />
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The more I live, the more I learn. Not only about life, but about me. About my strengths and weaknesses, my loves and passions, my hopes and dreams. I don't think you are ever too old to dream. God's love is amazing and His love challenges me to be a better me every day. I strive to lift His name every day, in my actions, in my words, in my deeds. May God be glorified! Oh how He loves me so!!<br />
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I have decided this year to be happy. That's my choice! I challenge you to choose happiness each day. I can not tell you the difference this has made in my life. Each day is sweeter. Have upsets come my way? Yes. But having the attitude that I WILL be happy has changed the way that I have accepted those things and been able to move on. What a difference an attitude will make!<br />
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I pray that your days are sweet and filled with kindness.<br />
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Until next time...<br />
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<br />James, Heather, Evan, Emie and Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03587942684281513900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226656836398775893.post-72045116657715317692012-12-17T14:38:00.003-06:002012-12-17T14:38:42.501-06:00Excited for Christmas!Things have been busy around the Talley house as we are gearing up for Christmas. Evan is so much fun to watch and listen to as he talks to his friends and others about Christmas. It brings me much joy to know that he really gets the reason we celebrate Christmas. Now, just as any four year old, he gets very excited to get up each morning and see what trouble McElfen (our Elf On A Shelf) has found himself in and he is looking forward to Santa coming.<br />
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I love it that James is so into the "magic" of Christmas. Before we had Evan, he always said that his children would not believe in Santa--however, he typed a letter to Evan from Santa yesterday. Funny how a baby changes everything. It brings me joy to watch James rediscover Christmas in a whole new way. I am thankful for Evan and the excitement of his little four year old self!<br />
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The start to our Christmas festivities is always Christmas On The Coosa. For those of you not from Elmore County, COTC events are so much fun! We enjoy our time together as a family, walking through the town and watching the Christmas parade. It was a fun-filled day--which ended with a shopping trip and dinner out at Mellow Mushroom (it was oh so good!). What a fun day!<br />
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Evan's Christmas program at church was 2 weeks ago and they did a great job! He sings with the "Tiny Tones" at church, our 3, 4 and 5 year olds. They acted out a live Nativity as the Christmas story was being read aloud. They then sang a couple of songs and led the congregation in some songs. They did such a good job and were so cute!<br />
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This past weekend was filled with a Sunday school family Christmas party and then our Christmas cantata at church. We had a great time fellowshipping with the families of our Sunday school class. We were able to get some great pictures of the kiddos, gathered around the manger (we managed to "dress" them to match the part-bath towels, kids belts and scarves go a long way!). So sweet. I must interject here a story about my Evan. When we all walked outside the Blackwells for the kids photo-op, Evan walked to the cross, stretched his arms out and said, "I am Jesus Christ. I'm on the cross--I died." We all stood there, looking at one another. It really put into perspective how much the little ones listen to and obtain. He got it right. I am so thankful that James and I made the decision as a couple to raise Evan in church and teach Him the ways of the Lord.<br />
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Our Christmas cantata was great! The music was simply beautiful. The Children's Choir sang, rand bells and read scripture. The Students sang an upbeat version of "Angels We Have Heard On High", there were a couple solos, congregational singing and the adult choir closed it out. I heard people saying we sounded great! It was a fun night of singing praises to our Lord!<br />
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We are looking forward to our first family Christmas gathering this weekend. We will celebrate with the Talleys. There is never a dull moment when we are all together, so I am sure it will be a blast! Too much food, a lot of laughter and good times!<br />
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I promise to post pics soon!!<br />
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Remember, you better watch out...SANTA is watching!!! ;O<br />
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Until next time...James, Heather, Evan, Emie and Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03587942684281513900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226656836398775893.post-67395483306342599642012-11-12T16:31:00.001-06:002012-11-12T16:31:52.729-06:00You Want A What?!Even though I own my own photography business, there are times when mommy just will not do. I wanted to have Evan's pics made with Santa, so I found out where our favorite Santa would be and made an appointment. James, Evan and I traveled to Helena to Gretchen B's studio Saturday evening to see the most amazing Santa ever!!<br />
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I had a long day of shoots in Centreville and Evan was with us for a good bit of the afternoon, so he missed his nap. He slept on the way so I figured he would be in a great mood when he woke up to find that we were there to see Santa. Nope. That was not the case. He was a little cranky. For those of you who know Evan well, will find this next statement a little hard to believe-he was acting so shy! He actually told Gretchen that he was in a bad mood.<br />
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It took a little work, but finally we got him over to Santa. He found himself in his lap and Santa asked the most important question you ask this time of year, "So Evan, what do you want for Christmas?" Without skipping a beat, he looks up with a sheepish grin on his face and said, "A baby! 2 girl babies at the same time!" Well, then...Evan's order is in with Santa, what's on your wish list?!<br />
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Until next time...James, Heather, Evan, Emie and Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03587942684281513900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226656836398775893.post-84859184542096831012012-10-11T16:16:00.002-05:002012-10-11T16:16:50.174-05:00Ready for a change!It is a very humbling experience when you come to the point where you know that there is time for a change. So many times we shy away from change as if it is a bad thing. Sometimes change is necessary. There are times when things are going great, but you just know that if you changed one thing about your life, it could be even better! I have found that when I begin to feel this way, there needs to be a difference made in my spiritual walk with the Lord. My flesh may be being fed, but there is a deep hunger that only Jesus can satisfy. Just because I am a Christian does not mean that my cup does not get low sometimes. That is no fault of Jesus, I am the one who fails to pull in and yell, "Fill'er up Lord!" I fall short on my end!<br />
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Lately, I have struggled with feelings of accomplishment and pride (if I am being completely honest). It is very easy to get caught up in the very routine day in and day out kinds of things and forget to recognize that you are special and worth something to somebody. Get up, get dressed, get E to pre-school, go to work, go home during lunch only to clean something up, get back to work, go home, laundry, cook, clean some more, bathe E, then collapse and try to catch a breath before sliding into bed- only to toss and turn thinking of the things that need to be done the next day! Whew! That makes me tired just typing it out!! In the middle of all this, we women, need social networking time (aka girlfriends, girl time!).<br />
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Now, I know that I can't be the only woman who feels as though she is pulled here and there and still is trying to act like she has it all together! My friends crack me up at some of their comments. I actually had a friend tell me that I have it all together! WHAT?! I sometimes feel like I am running around barely covering any ground. How can I do all of this "stuff" and be the wife and mother that God has created me to be? Better yet, how can I allow all of this "stuff" to get to me and be the wife and mother that God has <i><b>called</b></i> me to be? That is where Satan finds me and tells me that I am too busy to be doing any good! Is he right? Am I too busy? Where does all of this running to and fro get me? Am I building the Kingdom of God?<br />
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God is working in my life and urging me to be a stronger wife. I want to be the kind of wife who her husband knows is praying for him, who he trusts with all of his heart, who he cherishes and longs to see and love. I want to be a servant kind of wife (now, wait, I did not say a servant...not to be run over, talked down to or taken advantage of, but to love with a servants heart-there is a difference). James and I have celebrated seven years of marriage and I can honestly say that there are some times that I wish I could go back and have a "do-over." There are some conversations that were had that could have been handled with different tones and, if we are being extremely honest, different volumes. I want to change my response when situations arise. I want to be able to handle them with an open mind and heart. I am ready for a change!<br />
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Work in my life Lord and create within me a fresh start! Help me to be the wife that you created me to be- a helpmate to my husband. A support for him. I know that without you I am nothing, Lord and can do nothing, but with you all things are possible. You can take this stubborn, strong-willed, "I can do anything!" attitude and mold me where you would have me be.<br />
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Until next time...<br />
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<br />James, Heather, Evan, Emie and Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03587942684281513900noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226656836398775893.post-43942786818838192492012-10-09T16:56:00.001-05:002012-10-09T16:56:02.038-05:00I love my little man!Evan is growing so much and learning more than I could have dreamed! He picks up on everything and is able to retain it. That can be scary sometimes!! I have learned that when he tells me it is ok for me to take some pics, I better take him out for a photo shoot. A couple of weekends ago after church, he said, "Mommy, let's go take some pictures!" Needless to say I jumped right on that! We had a fun time together, just the two of us (James was home sick), exploring Prattville together and making memories that I know I will cherish forever! Here are a few of our end results:<br />
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<span style="text-align: center;">He does and says the funniest things. I love it that he will be in another room and run to me, just to tell me that he loves me. I hope that never goes away!! He is attached to this teddy bear who he lovingly refers to as "Peanut Bear" and when asked why, "Well, because he's the color of peanut butter!" Why of course! </span><br />
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I don't think this little guy will ever know the love and joy he has brought to my heart, my soul or our home. I can't imagine what life would be like without him! Who would have thought that 10 little fingers and toes, two little hands and feet or one great big smile could change a life so much?! I love him to the moon and back!!</div>
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Until next time...</div>
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<br />James, Heather, Evan, Emie and Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03587942684281513900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226656836398775893.post-62194717226861096462012-10-01T16:26:00.001-05:002012-10-01T16:26:24.391-05:00Thumbs Up from Dr. V!!I am just a little behind in my blogging. Sorry! I am sure you all know how busy life can become. Back in July I had to make a quick trip to Birmingham because I was having some headaches that seemed to want to linger. Dr. V was not certain that they were associated with the psedutumor, but would not rule it out until he saw me. After an exam, he said that he felt as though I was just having migraines. He decided to treat me with Botox. Now, I must interject here that I do not know how women do this for cosmetic purposes. It hurt SO badly!! I almost passed out from the pain and I must say that I have built up quite a tolerance for pain. It did take about 3-4 days before it really kicked in, but I am happy to announce that I have not had any headaches since. I guess the temporary pain was worth it in the long run!<br />
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James, Evan and I traveled to Birmingham to meet with Dr. Vaphiades, September 10, for my re-check appointment. We had a great visit. Dr. V came in, did an eye exam and said that my optic nerve swelling is down!! Praise the Lord! He was so optimistic and pleased with everything. He did ask that I try to lose about 8 more pounds, so please join me in prayer that I will be able to do that.<br />
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With this said, he told us that I did not need to come back until January! YEA!!! I am over the moon excited about this one! It is so nice to know that God heard our petitions and has proven once again that He is the almighty! We never know the reason behind the trials. We never understand the outcomes, but praise the Lord that He loves us enough to listen and respond.<br />
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He talked with us about having more children. He laid out a great game plan as to what to do when I become pregnant. I am praying now, that when the time comes that God sees fit to bless our family with an addition, that there will be no side effects. If the side effects come, spinal taps will have to be our go-to during the first trimester, as I can not be on meds and be pregnant. It is safe to be on the meds the remainder of the pregnancy, but I know that MY GOD is way bigger than pseudotumor and he can make is so that there are no side effects from the weight gain at all!! I am claiming this even now!! I ask that you would place this request on your prayer list as well! His time is perfect! I think James knowing that Dr. V has a plan, helps his mind rest easier. I know that he worries about me- I love him so much for that!<br />
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Thank you so much for the continued prayers and concerns. There is not a day that goes by that someone does not call, see me or shoot an email or text and ask how I am feeling. It is so nice to know that people care and love you! Thank you for loving me and my family!<br />
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I feel like over the past year (it has been one year this month since I received a diagnosis and plan) I have asked for lots of prayer. Please let me know how I may pray for you. Prayer is the best gift I can give and it is my pleasure to petition the Lord on your behalf! Oh, how he loves us so!<br />
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Prayer Requests:<br />
1. That I will be able to lost the remaining 8 pounds as requested by Dr. V.<br />
2. That the side effects will remain at bay.<br />
3. That I will continue to have opportunities to share my story of how God has lifted me up.<br />
4. Please continue to pray for the staff at the Callahan Eye Foundation. They are a great group of people who care about their patients.<br />
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Until next time...<br />
<br />James, Heather, Evan, Emie and Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03587942684281513900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226656836398775893.post-63643892488012545152012-08-10T15:53:00.000-05:002012-08-10T15:53:15.828-05:00I Still BelieveIt seems as though when you think you have it altogether, you have it all planned out, you know what is best and you know the direction to take...God sends a reminder that He is in control! You would think I would get a clue!! I like the saying, "Just when you think you have your plan together tell God and hear Him laugh." The Jeremy Camp song, "I Still Believe" is currently playing on my playlist and the words could not be more true!! "I still believe in your faithfulness! I still believe in your truth! I still believe in your Holy Word! <i>Even when I don't see, I still believe!!"</i><br />
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Things medically have leveled back out. I am off my medications (again) and the Botox injections seem to have helped my headaches.Which by the way, is a HUGE prayer answered!! Headaches are the pits which cause a decrease in energy and just an all around bad mood just because you don't feel good. Thank you for those who have prayed and thank you Jesus for healing me of the pain. Let me just interject here that I must give a hats off to women who choose Botox for whatever reason...those shots hurt so bad! I almost passed out from the pain and I would say that since last summer I have built quite a high tolerance for pain. Whew! I hope the one set of injections is all I need. I did not care for them at all, but with that said, I have no wrinkles in my forehead! ha! When you see me, I may have turned 30 but my forehead is not a day older than 25!! ;)<br />
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The question of how we know we are doing what God has planned or what is our own selfishness desires has been on my mind for the past several weeks. I have prayed for understanding and clarity and last week while in Sunday school, one of the questions was just this. Another member of the class spoke up and said that if it is God's will, the desire and the nagging feeling to go ahead with it (whatever it may be) will not go away. I know that I knew that, but there seemed to be some resolution hearing someone else say it. Today while cleaning out my desk here at work, I ran across a scratch piece of paper that I had written on some time ago. It reads: "Rejoice always, praying continually, give thanks in ALL circumstances for this is God's will for you in Jesus Christ." 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18. God's will is for me to walk closely with Him. Learning from Him, growing close to Him, loving Him, praising Him, serving Him and others. In all that I do, I should strive to be just like Him (knowing that is impossible, I should strive to be as close as I can be). When others have needs, I want them to know they can trust in me to be there for them. To love them and to pray with them. When Jesus lays a task before me, I want to do all that I can to complete the chore before me with a grateful heart. With a servants heart. Even though I can't always see what it is that I am "supposed" to do, I need to know and believe in Him that He will never lead me astray and that He will hold my hand each step of the way. He is never really far at all, He is right here beside me. When the days get tough and it seems as though my sight is clouded, I must believe in Christ Jesus to see me through.<br />
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Please pray that clarity will be given and peace of mind will be restored. Decisions are tough and trying to get more than one person on board with the same idea sometimes seems almost impossible.God is so good and His blessings are bountiful. At this point in my life I really do strive to walk in harmony with God's plan. To know that I am doing what He has planned for me and that I am not taking advantage of or neglecting His goodness. I want to be the best mommy to Evan, a wife that James is proud of, a daughter who my parents are pleased with and know will take care of them, a supportive sister who my brother knows would bend over backwards for him, a granddaughter who shows her thankfulness and love, a niece and cousin who is there when needed-a friend, a daughter-in-law who can be counted on to do what is needed, a dependable employee and a friend who others know will love and pray over them. I love Jesus and I want that love to shine. I know that He loves me so.<br />
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Until next time...James, Heather, Evan, Emie and Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03587942684281513900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226656836398775893.post-46234238035485767892012-07-26T16:32:00.003-05:002012-07-26T16:32:29.692-05:00Smack-Dab In The Middle Of It All!From the Journey devotional (thank you Mrs. Jean for thinking of me and sharing): <br />
"The difficult circumstances of our lives aren't always caused by blatant sin. In fact, difficulties and hard times can be ordained by God. Sometimes He puts certain people through a crash course of faith using hard circumstances because He has great things for them to do based on the growth they gain from their trials. <br />
We want God to be really smooth and easy, and we want obedience to always lead to a calm, trouble-free life. But that's not the way life works. Our faithfulness isn't directly proportional to how easy our lives will be. <br />
Our idea that God isn't at work in a situation unless it's calm is not a biblical perspective. The Apostle Paul wrote, 'We are pressured in every way but not crushed; we are perplexed but not in despair; we are persecuted but not abandoned; we are struck down but not destroyed' (2 Corinthians 4:8-9).<br />
If you are going through hard times, don't automatically assume that you must be doing something wrong or that God is disciplining you. Seek Him out. Walk with Him and know that He will accomplish His purpose in the middle of your circumstances whether or not you eve know what that purpose it. Take heart: God is working through your circumstances. He will never let His children endure pain without a purpose, and we'll never go through it alone."<br />
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In late June, early July, the symptoms of my Pseudotumor had returned. I knew I was due an appointment with Dr. Holman (my Ophthalmologist in Montgomery), so I did not see any reason to call Dr. Vaphiades (my Neurosurgeon in Birmingham). When I went to see her, she examined me and told me the optic nerves were swelling again and she thought it was best that I go back on the Diamox. Now remember, I have just come off of this in May. So, needless to say, my bubble had been busted and I felt like we were starting over at square one. I went ahead and called Dr. V to tell him what she had found and he agreed that going back on the low dose was the best thing to do. To say that I was not happy would be an understatement.<br />
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James and I were traveling to Birmingham that day for a dear friend's funeral, so I had a bit of a ride to think about and try to make sense of it all. You know, it has been easy for me to sing God's praises when it seemed like we were turning pages in the right direction and things were going well. Now, my faith was really to be put to the test. Would I be strong enough to sing His praises, even in this storm? I found myself feeling a little guilty for having a bit of a pity party (if you know me, you know what I say about pity parties; no one is there but you and the devil) over my news, seeing how we were going to say goodbye to a friend who was leaving her husband, 2 sweet children and parents behind. Where did I even have the right to upset with the fact that I was "just having to go back on meds"? I was then reminded that even though it may not be such a 'big deal' to others, it was to me and because it is to me, it is to my God. He cares when I am hurting, when I am upset, when I don't understand and when I am frustrated. He cares enough to listen and to console. He cares enough to help me see the there is light at the end of the tunnel, if only I trust Him to get me there.<br />
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As we sat at Jamie's funeral and I saw picture after picture of this sweet face scroll through a slide show, I was reminded that God is good-all of the time! He placed a smile on her face and in her heart, even when I am sure she did not feel like smiling. She sent words of encouragement to so many others, when I am sure her heart was breaking-she never let you know it, though. Friend after friend spoke about how Jamie met this disease with grace and fought it like a true champion. I decided then that I was going to "put on my big girl panties, and deal with it!"<br />
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Funny how God works. My foot had to be put in a cast (nothing serious, we are just trying to avoid surgery) so that has kinda put a little stumbling stone in my path- only because I let it, I suppose. But one positive thing it has made me do-slow down and take time to focus on my spiritual walk and prayer life. Within about an eight week span, I was taken off of my Diamox (a high), my daddy became sick and was placed in the hospital (which ended up being about a 25 day stay) (a low), my friend Jamie died (a low), my foot had to be placed in a cast (another low), headaches began (ugh...), had to go back on the Diamox (the valley), daddy was released from the hospital (yea!!! a mountain top) and a couple of friends were going through difficult times in their lives (the pits), several days of bad headaches (yuck) and got to come back off of the meds (Yippie!!) just this week. Needless to say, it has been an emotional roller coaster! Through all of this, God has reminded He is good by sending little rays of sunshine here and there to provide happiness along the way. Conversations with dear friends (adopted grandparents) who remind us that He is good-ALL of the time, a witty comment from my sweet Evan, a hug around the legs and an 'I Wuv You' at just the right time, a hand squeeze from my hubby or just the assurance that everything was going to be ok. No matter how big or small those moments may have been to the other person, they were huge for me during this chapter of my life. God knows just what we need when we need it!<br />
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That is why I can say, without a doubt, that I KNOW the words of this devotion are true. God walks through all of life's storms with us. Without Him, it would be impossible. If He were not there, smack-dab in the middle of it all, we would just throw our hands up in the air and make a huge mess of it. He is the one that holds us together. He provides those little rays of sunshine-even when we can't see that is what it is at the time. Each and every situation He gives us is an opportunity to allow Him to do a great work in our lives. We have to be willing to let Him shine. We are just the vessels. He loves us when we are not lovable. He listens when all we want to do is scream. He understands when we are angered. He calms the storms and provides smoother sails.<br />
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I want people to see that through it all, I glorified Him. Through the good days and the bad, when my heart was happy and when it ached, when I saw the clear path and when I was walking by faith alone. I want others to see Him living in me. He wants the best for me and I know that. He has a perfect plan for me and I know this because I know that He loves me so.<br />
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No matter what may come, no matter the storm clouds that may be waiting just ahead, I will praise my Savior! He gives me the good days and I know He will guide me through the bad.<br />
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Until next time...James, Heather, Evan, Emie and Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03587942684281513900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226656836398775893.post-71581410727398225712012-07-20T12:14:00.000-05:002012-07-20T12:14:59.629-05:00Sometimes I Just WonderThe definition of wonder: One that arouses awe, astonishment, surprise, or admiration; a marvel. <br />
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Do you ever sit back and just wonder? Get caught in a thought or idea and truly wonder? The past couple of weeks have caused me to do just that. We have done a lot of driving back and forth to the hospital in Tuscaloosa with my dad (he is home, by the way, and doing much better), so while riding or driving I have done some wondering. I have wondered about serious things and some sillly things. For example: I have wondered how in the world a form of strep can get into a wound and cause something so serious. I have wondered why in the world my daddy's blood pressure and blood sugar could not be controlled in the hospital when they seemed to be ok at home. I have wondered why in the world they provide such cheap blankets for the patients and families-see, I told you some of the things were silly. Then, as we celebrated my 30th birthday in the very hospital in which I was born, I wondered how in the world did I get so lucky to have such an amazing family!<br />
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Let's start with my parents since, well, that is really where I began in the first place. My mama has shown such love and devotion to me my entire life-but there has been a different side of her that has shown through since my daddy has been sick. I have truly seen "in sickness or in health." She never left his side the entire first week he was in the hospital. It actually was more like the first week and a half. I think she thought no one could care for him the way she could...lol. She prayed over him. She took care of his needs. She loved him--through it all! Even when they were on one another's last nerve, she knew that by his side was where she needed to be.<br />
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Then there is my daddy. What can I say? I am a daddy's girl! Still, at the age of 30! Did I really just say that? 30?! YIKES! He has such a gentle spirit about him. Even though he is "Big Daddy" he is the biggest teddy bear you will ever meet. He loves people and truly cares for their feelings and well being. He wants everyone to know Jesus and he never minds giving the shirt off of his back, even if that meant he would be left with nothing. That's my daddy! He appreciates all that has been done for him in order to make sure he has gotten better.<br />
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They both have loved me when I was not so loveable and held my hand and cried with me when I have been faced with new diagnosis. <br />
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My little (big) brother, Heath. Heath is one Jesus loving, kind-hearted big kid. Wherever there is fun, you are sure to find Heath right in the middle of it. He cares for others in such a way that it brings a tear to my eye-he gets that from our daddy. He would give you anything that he has. He has a heart for missions and for serving the Lord. He desires to be in God's will and will not stop until he knows he is following the path that God has for him. He is motivated to do what is right, even when it may not be the "cool" thing to do. He is a huge ham for the camera and big kid at heart. <br />
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My Nanny is so much fun. It is nice when you can call your grandmother your friend. I know that I can call her at any time and she will do whatever she can do to help meet my needs. She loves me dearly and I know she worries about me. I know that she prays for me and that she wants me to be happy. I love it that she loves shoes (we wear the same size) and that when she tires of them she passes them down. I love that she wants to know what is going on in my life. I love her cooking and that she wants me to know how to do it too. She always was such a great role model when it came to showing me how to care for my husband. She took such great care of my Paw-Paw. Always listening and doing, never asking for a lot in return. I'd be lost without her.<br />
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My Aunt Pam, Madison, Maci and Uncle Tim. The Brent Crew! Aunt Pam has always been one of my biggest fans and she is one of my best friends. I know without a doubt that she will listen when I call and will try to help me find a solution. I love her to pieces. Madison is my mini-me! Ha! We fight sometimes but it is just because we are so much a like! Maci is such a joy. She and Heath are a lot alike. She is so caring and has a soft gentle way about her, but do not be mistaken, this girl can hold her own! She knows who she is and she is not afraid of that and I love that about her! I love these girls as though they are my own!! I hope they know that if they ever need anything, I am just a phone call away and I will come to them as quickly as I can. My sweet Uncle Tim! He would still rock me to sleep even now if I wouldn't break his legs...ha! I know that if I ever called and said we were moving back home, he would be the first to come with a trailor attached to his truck! I love him and I know he loves me!<br />
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When I married, I gained a great new family. Mrs. Marian and Mr. Joe always want what is best for James, Evan and me. I know that when they say they are praying for me, they are. They belive that God will restore my health and I know they are claiming that! I feel blessed to have gained such wonderful in-laws and brothers and sisters--and of course, nieces and nephews!!<br />
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My sweet Evan! He holds my heart and makes it melt all at the same time. He is so much fun--teaching me new things each and every day. He loves people and he loves to learn. It makes me become a puddle knowing that he loves to go to church and learn (and sing) about Jesus. He never meets a stranger and becomes friends the moment they meet. From the day he was born I promised to love him forever and I look forward to the many years ahead of love, hugs and kisses!!<br />
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The love of my life, James. I can honestly say I would be lost without him. Even when we are pushing one another's buttons, I can't imagine doing even that with anyone else. I know without a doubt that he is there for me 100%. He will defend me, love me, protect me, honor me, respect me and cherrish me-all the days of my life. I have learned with James, over these past 9 years, that it is not always so much about telling people that you love them, but showing them. There is truth to actions speak louder than words. I am anxious for the next years of my life, taking time to "show" James (and tell him too) how much I deeply love him. I am so thankful that God saw fit to make sure that our paths crossed. He is such a blessing to me and oh how I love him so!<br />
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I can't close this post without mentioning my friends. I am so blessed to have the most amazing friends a girl could ask for. There are some that I see on a daily, weekly or monthly basis, there are some who we have to stay in touch through phone calls, text messages or emails and then there are some who without Facebook, we would be lost! Whatever way works best for us, I am glad that we have it and I am so thankful to have each of you. Friends help lighten the load sometimes even when you didn't realize how heavy it even was!<br />
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I often wonder why Jesus loved us so much that He would die for us. I don't know that I have that answer, or that I ever will, but I am so thankful for his act of love. I know without a shadow of a doubt that He watches over me and oh how He loves me!<br />
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Until next time...James, Heather, Evan, Emie and Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03587942684281513900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226656836398775893.post-60442822319109587962012-06-29T10:24:00.002-05:002012-06-29T10:24:58.816-05:00Loving Life and All That Comes With ItI just realized that this blog entry was never posted. It was written the first week of June, so...here you go!<br />
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Today I have been thinking of this crazy life of mine and all I can say is "Thank You!" I have so much to be thankful for and it seems like so many times, it goes unnoticed. James, Evan and I just got back from a great trip to Callaway Gardens in Georgia and what a fun time the three of us had. It was so good to get away and just have a couple of days laugh and enjoy life as a family of three!<br />
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My 30th birthday is soon approaching and I have really been thinking about what it means to be 30! Some days, it makes me feel like I am getting SO old. Some days I think about all that I have done and accomplished in these 30 years. Some days it just makes me tired to think about being 30. Some days it makes me grateful that I have lived and loved for 30 years. Some days it makes me look back on cherrished memories and smile. Some days it makes me think about all the things that I could have done a little differently. And today, it makes me think about all the great things that are in store for the next 30 years! God blessed me with a fantastic family, college education, wonderful friends, my great husband, sweet, sweet Evan, great jobs and opportunities, and chances to be looked at as opportunities to grow spiritually in my 20's. The 30's can only get better!!<br />
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With all the craziness that this life brings, I am excited to say that I have finally learned to roll with the punches (well, maybe I am still learning to do that). Instead of being strung so tightly, I am learning that God really does want to handle all of those "things" for us, so why should I worry? My sweet friend Jenn has such a laid back way about her and I love that. I feel confident that is one of the reasons God has her in my life-to teach me a few things. So, today I am loving life and all that comes with it. I know that "all that stuff" are ways I can grow!<br />
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I am attaching some pics for you to enjoy. Evan is growing so much! <br />
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Until next time...<br />
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<br />James, Heather, Evan, Emie and Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03587942684281513900noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226656836398775893.post-86748874427689026882012-05-25T16:31:00.000-05:002012-05-25T16:31:25.078-05:00One Happy Girl!Man! What a great day we had yesterday!!!! <br />
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I caught myself rather emotional in the car on the way to Birmingham for my check-up visit with Dr. Vaphiadies. My mind was all over the place and there was a huge knot in my stomach. As tears filled my eyes (don't ask me why this was happening), I closed them and began to talk to Jesus. I needed that 3 minute talk, just Him and me and it was as though nothing else in the world mattered. Ever had one of those moments, when you knew the radio was on, but there were no sounds all around? Just your own voice crying out to the Lord? Well, that was me! It is probably a good thing I was talking (praying) quietly, James would have thought I was crazy. Even though I knew there was no reason to feel anxious, I couldn't help but be.<br />
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We got to the appointment on time and waited for them to call me back. I knew the scales would be our first stop. I knew according to my scales at home I had lost more weight, but you know those doctor's scales are never the same as ours at home. I stepped on (not before sliding off my shoes, you women know that every ounce counts! haha) and sure enough! I had lost 6 more pounds since my last visit. She even commented, "He is going to be proud of that!"<br />
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We were escorted to another waiting area and then to the room where we waited for what seemed like forever on Dr. V. He came in, looked at the weight loss and then looked at me and smiled! YAY! A smile!! He commented on the weight loss (even took a moment to tell me that I look thinner--what girl doesn't like to hear that!!) and began to ask if I have had any trouble. He went through my medication list and then moved on to my eye exam. I began to pray...<br />
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He looked at my right eye and said that it looked good. He moved over to the left eye and said, "This is great! There is NO swelling of the optic nerves. They are normal!!" Did you hear that, NORMAL, my optic nerves are NORMAL!!!! God is so good. This was something that I have longed to hear since October. Finally, they appear as they should! Thank you Jesus for answering our prayers!<br />
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He scooted back and looked at me and smiled once again. He then asked if I wanted to come off of my medication. Heck yes!! He agreed we could try going without the Diamox, but stay on the 10 mg migraine pill each night. He wants me to continue with the weight loss and he will do another field vision test is 14 weeks (in September). He told us that he was so proud to have a success story to share with the other physicians and clients. What a happy girl I am! A success story!! Back in October, we were not sure what we were facing and now I am a success story! Praise the Lord!<br />
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As I have mentioned before, I feel as though God placed me with these staff members and this physician for a reason. He has looked after me and I know has my best at heart. He truly cares for his patients and I am so thankful I am one of those. I am still not really sure why God saw fit to place pseudotumor cerebri in my path, but I do know that I have learned a lot in the past few months. I have learned about my strength. I am a lot stronger of a person than I ever dreamed I was. I have learned that my faith in Jesus is strong-could it be even stronger, yes, but I KNOW that I can handle whatever comes my way with Him guiding my path. I have learned what an amazing husband I have. Now, I have always known how lucky I am to have him, but since October, his "for better or worse, in sickness and health" has really been put to the test and boy has he exceeded all expectations. I have learned that no matter how old you are, your parents are your parents and their concern for you continues to grow. They hurt when you hurt and worry even in times when you don't. I have learned how fortunate I am to have such loving friends and church family. I COULD NOT have made it through without the prayers and support from all of you. The kind words, cards in the mail, sweet emails, facebook comments, or simply asking about me when you see my family. They have all been cherrished. My life is greater for having you all be part of it. Most importantly, I have learned that prayer can touch and heal places you didn't even know were broken. Time with the Lord is so important and having others petition for you is so important. Where two or more are gathered, that is where HE will be. So, thank you for continuing to lift me and my family up in your prayers. They have not gone unnoticed.<br />
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Prayer Requests:<br />
1) Please continue to pray for healthy food choices. My taste buds should return to normal, so please pray that I am able to have self control and stay away from the things that are bad for me (i.e. Mt. Dew--Jenn, just continue to tell me how bad they taste!!). <br />
2) Please pray that James and I will know without a doubt when the Lord plans for us to expand our family. I know that as badly as I want another baby, my health must come first. We need to wait to see how my body will respond without the meds before we move forward with having another child.<br />
3) Please join me in praying that when September comes, more weight will be gone and the field vision test will be passed with flying colors. I want to continue to be one of Dr. V's "success stories." <br />
4) Please pray that God will lead me to others that I may share with them how He has worked in my life. May my life always be a testimony to how great He is. I am nothing without Him.<br />
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Until next time...<br />James, Heather, Evan, Emie and Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03587942684281513900noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226656836398775893.post-18825119578277831342012-03-16T14:37:00.004-05:002012-03-16T15:32:11.515-05:00How do you eat an elephant?!?!Man! Ever felt like there was SO much you wanted to do and SO little time to do it? I am not talking about the every day, run of the mill type things (I do have a lot of those, too). I am talking about "LIFE" things, things that will make a difference. God has given us all the same amount of time in a day, but there are some whose "<span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">I'll</span> get to it one day" just never happens (for whatever reason). I have been keeping a mental list of things that I want to get around to. Maybe if I actually write them down, it will make it a little easier to make it happen. Some of these things seem rather ambitious, maybe that is why I feel the need to blog about them. I know my prayer warriors are reading and you can help hold me accountable!<br /><br />Ready for Heather's Now or Never List??<br />*This may be one of the most ambitious...I would love to write and publish a women's devotional book. To some of you this may come as a surprise- but to others you know I love to write. I took a chance a couple of months ago and wrote the devotions for <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">our</span> Women's Retreat. No one there knew I had written the literature, so when I heard a few talking about how much they enjoyed it, it made my heart smile. I feel like this is a project God has laid on my heart and I should just obey...right?! It may be now or never!!<br /><br />I LOVE being a Child Life Specialist and miss being able to use my skills to work as one. I struggle with the fact that I live in an area where there are no opportunities for my field. That needs to change! Maybe I need to be that change agent! I should not be afraid to put myself out there and share what I have learned about the field to help others grow. It may be now or never!!<br /><br />I would like to work more <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">diligently</span> with my photography business. God has made a way for me to work as a photographer part time and has blessed my business beyond belief this year. There has to more opportunity for growth. It may be now or never!!<br /><br />My heart's desire is to make a difference no matter what it is that I am doing. I want to be a positive light in a dark world. I am constantly searching for opportunities to serve and do the greater good. When opportunities present themselves, I can't be afraid of what it may cost. It may be now or never!!<br /><br />When I look into the eyes of my little man, I want to be the greatest mom he could ever imagine. I want him to know that God is the center of my life because he sees me living a life that is pleasing to Him. I want to take the time to know all of the things that make Evan giggle and be filled with joy. I want to love on him now so that he will understand the importance of loving others later. I want to invest time and energy in him that we will never get back, something that will make a stamp on his life forever! It may be now or never!!<br /><br />I (still) want to be the daughter that brings joy to my parents (family). I want them to be proud of the woman that they helped shape me to be. I want them to look at me and know that they have done a great job. I want to never forget how special family is and take the time to share with them my happiness and frustrations. It may be now or never!!<br /><br />I want to be the woman that James wants to love forever. In a society where turning and running away from one another when times get rough seems to be answer, I want us to always run to one another and cling to one another. Our friendship and love is a gift and I NEVER want to take that for granted. I want to be open enough to share with him the things that make me happy and sad, my loves, my passions and my mistakes. I want him to know without a doubt that he can trust in me to love him forever! It may be now or never!!<br /><br />So, how can I do all of these things? Impossible, you say?! Nah! Just as you eat an elephant one bite at a time, I too can do all of these things. I must remember to trust in God to take care of the small things, even as I trust Him to handle the big things in my life. Please join me in prayer that I will be the God-fearing woman that He has called me to be. It all starts by making positive changes in your (my) life. I need to learn to sit and listen and not feel like I have to do all of the talking when it comes to my conversations with God. He has an opinion, too!! :)<br /><br />What are the things on your "Now or Never" list? Maybe you need to jot them down to keep them fresh on your mind or share them with others so they may be bathed in prayer. God grants our hearts desires and He loves to fulfill them. I understand that it is in His timing when all things are made perfect. Take a look back over the things in your life that may have worked out differently had you had all the say so...I will leave that one for another post! :)<br /><br />On a side note, some <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">have</span> asked about a medical update. Things are going well. There have been no headaches for some time. As a matter of fact, I have lost count of how many weeks I have been headache free! Praise the Lord!! I go back to see Dr. V in May and am anxious to see what he has to say. I still have not been able to have a Mt. Dew (some days that is so hard)- we are talking since OCTOBER!!! I think I would go into shock if I were to have one, now! Some of my tastes for my favorite things have returned, however most have not. My taste buds have changed drastically, but it has helped to keep the weight off. I seem to be continuing to lose, but I do ask that you continue to pray that I can withstand the temptations to over eat. Keeping this weight off is a must!! There are some days when I when I just want to be angry about this whole situation and not being able to move forward with expanding our family, but then I look back on how God has moved within my life. There has been more growth over these 5 months than I have had in a long time. I have seen the power of Jesus work strongly in my life and in others around me. When I take the time for this reflection, I can't help but smile and know that "all things work together for good, for those who love the Lord." He has a plan and I am so thankful that He has allowed me to be part of it. I may not see the full picture, but the bits and pieces are looking good so far!!<br /><br />When things seem to be getting the best of me, I just try to remember that he loves me so!<br /><br />Until next time...James, Heather, Evan, Emie and Petehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03587942684281513900noreply@blogger.com0