Busy, Busy, Busy!

Image courtesy of Michal Marcol / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Have you ever felt like you're just beyond stretched?  Like it's just go, go, go?  That's my life lately.  I am just so crazy busy there's not much time to breathe...And it's been interesting.

For those of you who don't know, busy can be very bad for those with Fibromyalgia.  If you let yourself get too worn out, you are more susceptible to illness, to pain, to stiffness, to severe fatigue, etc.  It's kinda like having Mono or CMV in that respect, except Fibromyalgia can be and often is a lot more debilitating.

So far, I have fared well with my busy schedule.  I have done amazingly well with my new vitamins and have had a lot less fatigue, stiffness and pain since starting them, even with the cold weather. :) That thrills me beyond words! 

But it's not just the vitamins helping.  It's the prayers, the rest (I have been going to bed about an hour earlier than normal at least and taking a lot of breaks throughout the day), trying to eat right and the help and emotional support.  You'd be amazed what the right attitude and a helping hand can do for someone with Fibromyalgia!  A thankful spirit is the best medicine for me, and so is a thoughtful word expressed by someone who truly does care.  It makes a world of difference.

You may have noticed that I've taken a little bit of a break from my recipe blog, Natural and Free.  It's not because I haven't been coming up with recipes or stopped researching or am being lazy.  Oh, no!  I've got major things I've been working on for it which I'll share in just a second.  I've been holding off on posting for 4 reasons:

1. To give my blogger buddy, Stacey, a little more time in the limelight. :)  I mean, if you haven't checked out that awesome recipe she shared, you simply must!  It's delish!
2. To give myself a little break before all the fun begins with me hosting the BeanChat on Gevalia on Facebook on Thursday (more info coming), and before Stacey's and my fun Christmas link-up that I'll share in just a moment because that's going to be non-stop fun for nearly 2 weeks!
3. To give myself a little more family time amidst the craziness and to decorate the house with them for Christmas (still a work in progress).
4. To give myself time to cook for the fun Christmas link-up so that I have recipes to share with pictures! :)

Ok, so now to explain a few of those things above.

First, the BeanChat.  On Thursday, November 29th - that's just 2 days from now - I will be hosting the BeanChat over at Gevalia Coffee on Facebook!  It runs from 9am to 10am CST/ 10am to 11am EST. 

What is the BeanChat?  Well, it's basically a chat room where we discuss 10 different topics that I have chosen at random, one topic at a time, for an hour.  They aren't all coffee related, so don't think you have to be a huge fan of coffee to join in. ;)  It should be a lot of fun!

Anyway, if you'd like to join me, and I hope you will, follow this link: http://www.facebook.com/GevaliaCoffee and then click on the "BeanChat" icon up at the top of the page or you can try this link to go directly to the BeanChat: 

http://www.facebook.com/GevaliaCoffee/app_127746670651003.  Thanks!

Secondly, the Christmas link-up I keep talking about.  May I present to you:

From December 1st (this Saturday!) through December 12th, my friend Stacey at Glued to My Crafts and I (via Natural and Free) will be hosting The 12 Days of Christmas {Goodies} link-up!  You can submit your favorite goodies (edible and non), Christmas crafts, how to wrap presents - anything Christmas themed is allowed!  You can even submit as many entries as you like, and trust me, you'll want to...Keep reading!

On December 13th, we will be announcing our 5 favorite goodies on our blogs, so make sure you follow both of our blogs so you don't miss out on any of the fun and excitement!

But there's even MORE!

As a thank you to everyone who links up, we are giving away (courtesy of Stacey) ONE $12 gift card to Starbucks at random (via random.org), so the more you link-up, the more chances you have to win!

And, to those who do not win but get featured on our Top 5 Link-ups on December 13th, we will be offering Ad Space and Guest Post options!

You think we'd be done spreading the Christmas cheer then, huh?  Think again!

On December 13th, we will also be having yet another giveaway with some great vendors!  Merry Christmas, blogger style! :)

I'm telling you, it's going to be one amazing (though extremely busy) December! :)

I've got other things coming up, too, like guest bloggers and I'll also be guest blogging places, but don't worry, my readers.  I'll still be here and you are still in my thoughts and prayers. :)  Busy or not, after God, my family and church, you are my top priority! :)

Now, unfortunately, I need to go.  My 2 year old needs me and my laundry room is a disaster (it flooded, but hubby is getting off work early to help me clean it all up - I've done what I can until he gets here).  I hope you all have an amazing Tuesday and that you will be able to join me on Thursday on the BeanChat and/or Saturday (and beyond) for the amazing link-up on Natural and Free and Glued to My Crafts! :)

(This post was originally posted on my original site, Fibro, Fit and Fab!)

Thank you!

I hope you all had an amazing Thanksgiving yesterday!  I know I did!  Great food, time with family...what's not to love? :)  I just love the holiday season, don't you?

Anyway, I just wanted to hop online and tell you all thank you for linking up.  I enjoyed reading all the posts.  They were such a blessing to me!

I also enjoyed reading all the wonderful comments!  It's amazing how far a little gratitude goes.  It's contagious and spreads like wildfire.  It's so much better to spread joy in the form of gratefulness than it is to spread complaints, don't you agree?

Well, I have to go have some more family time (love it!), so I will leave you with these posts from the link-up.  I hope you enjoy reading them!

If you didn't get a chance to link-up, but want to share your favorite Thanksgiving moment or another memory you're grateful for, please comment below.  It's never too late to spread some joy!

Have a great day!  If you're out shopping, BE SAFE, please!  Thanks. :)

(This post was originally posted on my original site, Fibro, Fit and Fab!)

Twenty-Two Days of Thanks: Day Twenty-Two

What am I thankful for?

1. My Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ
2. My family
3. My church
4. My friends
5. Unexpected opportunities
6. My country
7. The four seasons
8. Answered prayer
9. Food
10. Forgiveness
11. Freedom
12. Laughter
13. Modern medicine
14. Technology
15. Quiet moments
16. Dates
17. Hunting season
18. Special music
19. The Bible
20. Thanksgiving
21. Fibromyalgia
22. Surprises

I am so excited to post this today!  I've been keeping this secret in for days now, but couldn't post it because there was a risk someone (i.e. my mom or someone who would tell her) would read this and spoil the surprise.  Anyway, here it is:

My Granny is here!

We haven't spent a holiday with her since before the above picture was taken about 2 years ago at this time, if memory serves, and it has been about a year since we saw her last.  I've missed her!  I cannot wait to give her a big hug and kiss when I see her in a few hours. :)

My sister told me about a week or so ago she was going to try to get her here, and then a few days ago my sister called to tell me she was going to get her.  I was so excited, but had to keep it a secret because my kiddos and mother didn't know (my kiddos find out today, but they don't read this, so I can say it here now. :) ).  This is definitely the best kind of surprise! :)

I'm not always a fan of surprises, well, ones I know are coming.  Like I don't like the surprise of a roller coaster drop or the surprise of having to wait to know the gender of a baby I'm carrying (yes, I found out for each one), but other surprises - ones like this- I love dearly!

I love when God provides in ways you never dreamed possible.  Like the time, Christmas of 2010, when we got so many unexpected blessings from presents for the kiddos,

to a wanted "room tree" for the boys,

to a LEGO Advent Calendar,

to money that helped with so many different needs and wants.

God is amazingly good!

I am also so grateful for surprises that aren't even my own.  I've heard of so many people expecting who never dreamed to be in the last few months, who have prayed for and/or desired more children but didn't think it possible.  I have also have friends and family celebrating the holidays for the first time with new babies, and my cousin has made it to 36 weeks today which is a huge blessing and a wonderful surprise since they didn't expect her to make it this far!  All of that makes me want to shout for joy! :)

To surprises: Though I may not be fond of all your tricks and secrets, I can say that most times you make me feel blessed beyond words.  Thank you for letting God use you in the form of modern miracles.  Thank you for making my Thanksgiving (with the help of my sister - Thank you, Lynette!  I love you!!) just that much more amazing!

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!  May it be a truly magnificent, surprisingly wonderful day!

~ What surprises are you grateful for today? ~

Share your story below or link it up on my Twenty-Two Days of Thanks page (it's the bottom link in the left sidebar). I'd love to hear from you!

(This post was originally posted on my original site, Fibro, Fit and Fab!)

Twenty-Two Days of Thanks: Day Twenty-One

What am I thankful for?

1. My Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ
2. My family
3. My church
4. My friends
5. Unexpected opportunities
6. My country
7. The four seasons
8. Answered prayer
9. Food
10. Forgiveness
11. Freedom
12. Laughter
13. Modern medicine
14. Technology
15. Quiet moments
16. Dates
17. Hunting season
18. Special music
19. The Bible
20. Thanksgiving
21. Fibromyalgia

 

Now, I know what you're thinking.  What an odd thing to be thankful for.  Can I say that I love the random aches and pains that come when the weather shifts or when I work too hard?  No.  Do I like that stress can trigger intense pain?  No.  Do I like that I get so fatigued sometimes that I can hardly lift my head?  Absolutely not.  Do I like that it robs me of being able to make plans or enjoying my family fully?  Definitely not.  Do I like being a Fibrowolf and having Fibro Fog?  No way!  So why do I say I'm grateful for this condition?  Because I have learned so very much about myself from it.

I have learned what I'm made of, from the true condition of my spiritual soul to the quality of my relationships and the sincerity of my love for and my desire to help others.  I have learned that God gives such grace just when you need it, strength at the moment you need it and joy and peace through the tears.  He has taught me compassion I did not know I could possess through it.  He has opened doors through it.  He has taught me how much I need Him daily through it.  He has taught me to appreciate any small moment of time that is spent without pain (or days without any real pain) and to see them as blessings and gifts.  He has taught me that joy is not in your circumstances but in your perception, your attitude, through it all.

I have learned that true happiness is a choice.  I don't have to like the pain, the fatigue, the brain fog and all the other things that go with Fibromyalgia, but I can choose to be happy anyway.  I can choose to say, "I may not have this or that, BUT I DO have ____".  Oh, I can fill-in that blank with so much; a home with Jesus when I die, a family that loves me, a husband who works hard, a good church, a roof over my head, food to eat, a doctor who listens...  The list goes on and on.  Those things alone are enough to make me smile and get my focus off of my despair.  How can I be sad when I've been given so much?

Pain is not something that is looked at as a positive.  It's hard to make it one.  We rebel against that idea, I can attest to that firsthand.  However, what doesn't kill us, makes us stronger, and that's true on so many levels.  God uses weakness to show us His strength, and (sometimes) to bring us back to Himself.  I know when you hurt, you pray...and a whole lot more than you do when you feel good.  In that way, pain makes me grateful because it reminds me that I need Him.

Bad things happen to everyone.  Hurt and despair find their way into all lives; poor, rich, young, old - pain does not discriminate.  I am so thankful that I don't have to face mine alone.  I have friends and family and (most importantly) God to help me through it all, and I feel beyond blessed for it!

I am thankful that the Lord has taught me that Fibromyalgia is not the end of my life, but (in some ways) it is the beginning.  It is the beginning of a new me.  I am so glad that I can say, "I have Fibromyalgia, BUT it DOESN'T have ME!" :)

To Fibromyalgia: I know you thought you had me whipped.  I know you thought that I would gripe and complain and hate you, but I don't.  Yes, I don't enjoy it, but I don't hate you.  You have helped me grow as a person, and I'm thankful for that.  Thank you for letting the Lord use you to show me how much I need Him and how much His strength is there when mine has failed.  I am ever in your debt for your willingness to be my mixed blessing!

~ What "mixed blessing" are you grateful for today? ~

Share your story below or link it up on my Twenty-Two Days of Thanks page (it's the bottom link in the left sidebar). I'd love to hear from you!

(This post was originally posted on my original site, Fibro, Fit and Fab!)

Twenty-Two Days of Thanks: Day Twenty

What am I thankful for?

1. My Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ
2. My family
3. My church
4. My friends
5. Unexpected opportunities
6. My country
7. The four seasons
8. Answered prayer
9. Food
10. Forgiveness
11. Freedom
12. Laughter
13. Modern medicine
14. Technology
15. Quiet moments
16. Dates
17. Hunting season
18. Special music
19. The Bible
20. Thanksgiving

Image courtesy of debspoons / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

I am thankful for the very holiday that reminds us to be grateful.  It's very name contains the philosophy: Thanks-giving.  I suppose that's why I get a little upset when I see stores ignore it (Christmas decor was out the end of August some places this year, but little to no Thanksgiving decor could be found in most places even in November!) or when I see Christmas decor go up before Thanksgiving has even passed, though I can understand why some do (i.e. trying to do it before the nasty weather hits, leaving on vacation and want it done for when they get back), and I try not to judge.  I guess I'm always a little concerned that people are too eager to ignore the importance of giving thanks in lieu of the more popular things like getting presents.  That makes me cringe just to think about.

Anyway, this year, I am determined to savor every moment of Thanksgiving, hence the reason I did this link-up.  I'm going to enjoy dwelling on what I'm grateful for.  I'm going to relish the family time.  I'm going to breathe in every bit of gratitude I can and find a way to keep Thanksgiving in my heart every day, not just yearly on the fourth Thursday in November.

To our forefathers: Thank you for realizing the need to give thanks.  Thank you for realizing we must set aside time to remember all that we are blessed with.  Thank you for setting aside time for us to focus on the fact that we have so very much to be grateful for.  May we never brush this holiday aside as "pointless", because (to me) it is one of the most important holidays of the year!

To close out this post, I'm going to leave you with a link: An Organic Thanksgiving.  This is a link to a re-post my sister-in-law put up that you simply must take a moment to read.  It will definitely make you smile! :)

~ What are you grateful for today? ~

Share your story below or link it up on my Twenty-Two Days of Thanks page (it's the bottom link in the left sidebar). I'd love to hear from you!

(This post was originally posted on my original site, Fibro, Fit and Fab!)

Twenty-Two Days of Thanks: Day Nineteen

What am I thankful for?

1. My Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ
2. My family
3. My church
4. My friends
5. Unexpected opportunities
6. My country
7. The four seasons
8. Answered prayer
9. Food
10. Forgiveness
11. Freedom
12. Laughter
13. Modern medicine
14. Technology
15. Quiet moments
16. Dates
17. Hunting season
18. Special music
19. The Bible

Image courtesy of Janaka Dharmasena / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

I thought I already had this on my list, but I realized I only "implied" it to the list, not officially put it there.  The Bible definitely belongs at the top of my list.  I am still a little surprised that I didn't notice before now that I'd not put it officially on the list, but isn't that how life goes?  When we get busy, to our shame, we forget the Bible.  How sad is that?  Something that should be such a part of our daily lives gets pushed to the side because of the trivial.  One of these days I hope to conquer this fully, but I know I have a long way to go.

As I've implied (and to my shame), I am not the Bible reader I want to be.  I get a few different devotionals and Bible passages emailed to me daily, I read my Bible at church, I have Scriptures running through my head most of the time, I sometimes will read my Bible for hours for no reason at all other than God lead me to a certain passage, and I just keep going because He's speaking to me and I can't put it down...but there are days when I just read to read or out of duty.  I want that to change.  I never regret reading my Bible, but I want to enjoy it even when it's a more "boring" book or chapter.  I guess that makes me sound horrible to call parts "boring", but I'm just being honest. 

Some books of the Bible are tough reading with all the genealogies and laws and such.  Those are the books where you need to pray to ask God to show you something, to open your eyes to what He has for you to learn.  You'd be surprised what you might find.

Years ago, when I was in college, we had a preacher come and talk about the Ark of the Covenant and the reasons why the Tabernacle was set up the way it was and why the priests wore what they wore, why they used the colors and materials, etc. (Exodus 25 - 31), and let me tell you - eye opening!  Suddenly those "boring" details were amazing!  God thought to show the story of His Son in those details.  It would blow your mind how often the Bible does this, not just in the Old Testament, but all throughout.

The Bible is a living Book.  I can't explain it, but there are times (most times, actually) when I read it, and I could promise you that it was like those who pinned it thousands of years ago read my mind at that moment!  I can read the same passage every day for a week and STILL find something new in it and go "Huh!  I don't remember that being there before!"  It's pretty cool. :)  I love how God can use the same exact words to touch different lives so profoundly in different ways or to make you feel so loved and cared for and special in a part of His Word that means very little to someone else.  Blows my mind!  I really do believe that He put things in there just for me, just for Julie...and I think He has done the same for you, too. :)

Now, I'm not going to argue about this, and I am not putting it here to stir up trouble.  This is my conviction, but I know it is not some of yours; that's between you and God.  Anyway, the version of the Bible that I use, that I hold to, is the KJV.  I think it is the Bible meant for the English speaking nations of the world, and you are welcome to disagree.  I am not going to call you a heathen, I am not going to debate with you or tell you that you are evil or anything like that.  As I said, that's between you and God.

I've read other versions, I even went to a church that used other versions.  I've met plenty of Godly people and read some amazing material that used other versions of the Bible.  However, I think (to avoid confusion) that you should only use one (and you're welcome to disagree with me there, too), and the version I choose is the KJV. 

I've researched it out, I've studied it out, and I've come to the conclusion that the KJV is the Bible for me, and that's how it's going to stay.  Please refrain from getting into an argument with me in comments.  This isn't the place for it.  However, if you'd like to send me an email and ask me some questions or state your opinions, I'd be happy to talk with you. :)  Again, I'm not trying to upset anyone, just telling you what I believe.

Anyway, I am grateful for the Bible.  I am grateful God let us have and preserved His Word for all time.  I'm glad He cared that much.  It makes me feel all kinds of special. :)  When I think of that, it makes wanting to read His Letter to us (me) all that much easier and special.

~ What are you grateful for today? ~

Share your story below or link it up on my Twenty-Two Days of Thanks page (it's the bottom link in the left sidebar). I'd love to hear from you!

(This post was originally posted on my original site, Fibro, Fit and Fab!)

Twenty-Two Days of Thanks: Day Eighteen

What am I thankful for?

1. My Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ
2. My family
3. My church
4. My friends
5. Unexpected opportunities
6. My country
7. The four seasons
8. Answered prayer
9. Food
10. Forgiveness
11. Freedom
12. Laughter
13. Modern medicine
14. Technology
15. Quiet moments
16. Dates
17. Hunting season
18. Special music

 Image courtesy of Salvatore Vuono / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

I'm speaking of the special music at our church.  It is always such a blessing to me.  No matter if it's someone playing a piano solo or a group of instruments playing during the offertory or someone or a group of someones singing a song before the preaching, it's always a blessing.  It doesn't have to be preformed perfectly, either.  It doesn't matter if it's in tune, off key or if there are a dozen mess-ups; special music thrills my heart because the person or persons preforming it are doing it to praise the Lord.  How much more beautiful can it get than that?  A sincere heart always makes me smile.

There are also the times, like today, where the song choice resonates so deeply in my soul, I find myself fighting off the tears.  Those are the days that I stand in awe that God would lay a song on someone else's heart that speaks volumes to mine.  What an amazing God we serve!

To anyone who has ever sung a special at church or played an instrument to honor the Lord: Thank you!  You have blessed my heart more than you'll ever know!  Thank you for letting God use you in this way!

I will end this post with the lyrics to the song our Pastor and his family sang today.  I hope it touches your heart like it did mine.  I could definitely say, "Amen!  I feel the same way!" to it.

GOD'S BEEN GOOD by Tim Parton

Verse 1

Lately I've been looking back, along this winding road

To the old familiar markers of the mercies I have known

I know it may sound simple but it's more than a cliche

There's no better way to tell you, than to say

Chorus

God's been good in my life

I feel blessed beyond my wildest dreams when I go to sleep each night

And though I've had my share of hard times, I wouldn't change them if I could

'Cause through it all, God's been good

Verse 2

Times replay and I can see that I've cried some bitter tears

But I felt His arms around me, as I faced my greatest fears

You see I've had my gains than losses and I've known more joy than hurt

As His grace rolled down upon me undeserved

Chorus

Bridge

For God has been my Father, my Savior and my Friend

His love was my beginning, and His love will be my end

I could spend forever trying to tell you everything He is

But the best that I can say it is this

Chorus

Have an amazing Sunday!

~ What  makes you feel

"blessed beyond my wildest dreams" today? ~

Share your story below or link it up on my Twenty-Two Days of Thanks page (it's the bottom link in the left sidebar). I'd love to hear from you!

(This post was originally posted on my original site, Fibro, Fit and Fab!)

Twenty-Two Days of Thanks: Day Seventeen

What am I thankful for?

1. My Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ
2. My family
3. My church
4. My friends
5. Unexpected opportunities
6. My country
7. The four seasons
8. Answered prayer
9. Food
10. Forgiveness
11. Freedom
12. Laughter
13. Modern medicine
14. Technology
15. Quiet moments
16. Dates
17. Hunting season

***WARNING!  THIS POST CONTAINS PICTURES OF DEAD DEER!***



I know there are probably some anti-hunting or vegan/vegetarian people reading this blog that just got either majorly offended or grossed out over my being grateful for hunting season. I have a sister-in-law who is a vegetarian who finds it gross, so I get that.  I understand if you don't agree and that's ok, but I am a meat-eater, and any way that we can get our meat without having to buy it from the store is a good thing! You don't get any more natural than killing it yourself! Sorry if I offended you, I am, but I'm just being honest here. :)

2005

At any rate, every year, my hubby goes out hunting. It's been this way since about the year after we got married, so about 2001-ish.  He struggled at first, but now he normally gets at least one deer each hunting season. I am grateful that God has chosen to bless us in this way.

2006

Some years he gets lucky and gets two or three deer.  Now I want you all to know that, if we can't use it or know someone else who can, we don't kill it.  He isn't the type of hunter who kills for sport; he kills for food.  We think that's what hunting was meant for and what is good and right.



2008

2007













Anyway, most years, as you can see, hubby gets to face the ice and snow.  I'm so grateful that he is willing!  It means the world to me to have a hubby who is willing to face the elements to provide for his family!  What a great guy! :)

 

2009

2011

Thank You, Lord, for providing for us with meat for our freezer that will last us months!  It helps so much with the grocery bill!  It is such a blessing to have this gift from You!  Thank You, too, for the years we are able to provide meat for others.  It's so wonderful to be a blessing to other families!



2012

Thank you, hubby, for being such a wonderful provider!  I'm so blessed to have a hubby who is willing to sit out in the cold, damp and quiet for hours to provide for us.  You are a gift from the Lord, and I don't know what I'd do without you! XOXOXO...

 May you have a blessed and grateful weekend!

~ What  are you grateful for? ~

Share your story below or link it up on my Twenty-Two Days of Thanks page (it's the bottom link in the left sidebar). I'd love to hear from you!



(This post was originally posted on my original site, Fibro, Fit and Fab!)

Twenty-Two Days of Thanks: Day Sixteen

What am I thankful for?

1. My Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ
2. My family
3. My church
4. My friends
5. Unexpected opportunities
6. My country
7. The four seasons
8. Answered prayer
9. Food
10. Forgiveness
11. Freedom
12. Laughter
13. Modern medicine
14. Technology
15. Quiet moments
16. Dates

I'm referring to dates with my hubby, not calendar dates or the kind that you eat, though I'm sure you guessed that already. :)  They don't happen too often, and they are quite often not "romantic" dates or even "official" dates.

Sometimes they are just times to chat when the kiddos are sleeping in the back seat of the car on a long trip...

2009

Sometimes they are more fun, like an evening at the beach taking pictures of the gorgeous sunset while the grandparents babysit...

2008

2008



Other times it might be that we get to go do something alone like vote or go grocery shopping while the kiddos are in school or at the grandparents...



2012

I know, these don't sound so much like "dates" but, when you have kids, you'll take what you can get sometimes. :)

I am just so thankful for times alone with my hubby, in anyway that they come.  He's my best friend, my sweetheart, my counterbalance...I don't know what I'd do without him!  Any time that we can talk as adults and pour out our hearts, share our needs, listen to each other, hold hands, sneak a smooch - just enjoy being together, is precious time.  I may not get to dress up or go to a fancy restaurant, but that's ok.  It's time with him, and that makes me feel like the most precious, loved and blessed woman on the planet.

To the family that watches my kiddos so we can go out: Bless you!  You may not realize what a blessing it is to be able to get away, even if it's just to the grocery store. :)  It means the world!

To my hubby: I love you more than life!  I enjoy each and every moment we have together that's "just us", even if it's only an hour or 2 after the kiddos go to bed.  I don't care if we're going grocery shopping, discussing world events or just sitting next to each other in silence holding hands; I enjoy you.  Thank you for always being there, for loving me when I am unlovable and for agreeing to always be mine.

To my children: Thank you for being so good for the babysitters!  It's so nice to know they are willing to watch you again because you are respectful and sweet, not just because they want to do Mommy and Daddy a favor! :)  We love you so very much!



~ What quality time with your spouse/significant other are you most grateful for? ~

Share your story below or link it up on my Twenty-Two Days of Thanks page (it's the bottom link in the left sidebar). I'd love to hear from you!

(This post was originally posted on my original site, Fibro, Fit and Fab!)

Twenty-Two Days of Thanks: Day Fifteen

What am I thankful for?

1. My Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ
2. My family
3. My church
4. My friends
5. Unexpected opportunities
6. My country
7. The four seasons
8. Answered prayer
9. Food
10. Forgiveness
11. Freedom
12. Laughter
13. Modern medicine
14. Technology
15. Quiet moments

Is there anything more soothing than a quiet moment?

Whether it be a relaxing time at the beach were you can lazily watch a sunset without distraction....



Or a quiet morning where you can enjoy a leisurely breakfast...



Or maybe the kiddos are all getting along and being still and quiet and wonderful all at the same time...



January, 2011



 Or maybe it's nap time and the house is still...

June, 2011

No matter how it comes to you, quiet time is amazing and a gift.

As a mother of 3, I enjoy those moments of quiet.  Time seems to stand still and I have time to just reflect on how good God has been to me.  In those moments of stillness, in the moments of silence and serenity, I am in awe of just how wonderful life can be, how blessed I am, and how much I love my life.  Oh, it's not perfect, but it's mine...and I'm grateful for it.

Thank You, Lord, for the moments of quiet.  Thank You for the early mornings, for the nap times, for the nighttime after the kiddos are in bed or the times I get to go out for a walk alone while hubby watches the kids.  Thank you for those times I can reflect and pray without distraction.  Thank You for the peace that comes in those serene moments.  Thank You for reminding me in those moments how amazing my life is, how good You are and how much I need You.  I don't know where I'd be without You and those moments of stillness.

May you all enjoy your quiet time today, no matter how long or short it may be!



~ What quiet moments are you most grateful for? ~

Share your story below or link it up on my Twenty-Two Days of Thanks page (it's the bottom link in the left sidebar). I'd love to hear from you!

(This post was originally posted on my original site, Fibro, Fit and Fab!)

Twenty-Two Days of Thanks: Day Fourteen

What am I thankful for?

1. My Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ
2. My family
3. My church
4. My friends
5. Unexpected opportunities
6. My country
7. The four seasons
8. Answered prayer
9. Food
10. Forgiveness
11. Freedom
12. Laughter
13. Modern medicine
14. Technology

Image courtesy of twobee / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Where would we be without it?  I mean, we have computers, cell phones, internet, microwaves, TVs, XBox, Nintendo, PlayStation, Wii, and a host of other things, some of which were unheard of 15 years ago.  They keep us entertained and connected.  They are a huge part of our life now.  Can you even imagine life without Facebook, Twitter, Google+, Pinterest, SITS Girls, Skype, etc. now?  I don't think I can.

I have met people, quite literally, from all over the world thanks to modern technology who have become good friends.  I have been able to talk with my brother and his family in Africa thanks to messengers and Skype.  I have been able to call for help when I've been stranded on the side of the road a few times thanks to cell phones.  I have been able to see pictures of family and friends and chat for hours if I wished thanks to social networking places like Facebook.  How could I not love technology?

I know some people hate it.  Really.  Some people hate all the "stuff", all the gizmos and gadgets.  I can understand that; some people hate change and becoming dependent on the next "big thing" that may or may not last.  Who can blame them for being a little resistant?  But, when they stop and give some of these things a chance, they find out that they aren't so bad after all. :)

To the true inventors of all the things that we now love and use on a daily basis that involve technology: Thank you!  Thank you for making the world a little smaller.  Thank you for making it possible for me to have friends all over the world.   Thank you for making it possible for me to connect with family I would not otherwise have a chance to connect with!  Thank you for ushering your dream into reality.  I appreciate it very much!

To those of you who want to make technology into an evil thing: I get it.  I do.  There are hackers and internet stalkers and all those evil things.  I believe in practicing internet safety.  I hold to the safety tips and I don't just allow anyone into my "inner circles".  Be safe about everything, but don't be afraid to try out technology.  Do your research and evaluate the risk.  You might find something amazing out there you'd otherwise have missed out on if you didn't jump in sometimes.

I hope you all enjoy your Wednesday, technology savvy or not! :)

~ What type of technology are you most grateful for? ~

Share your story below or link it up on my Twenty-Two Days of Thanks page (it's the bottom link in the left sidebar). I'd love to hear from you!

(This post was originally posted on my original site, Fibro, Fit and Fab!)

Twenty-Two Days of Thanks: Day Thirteen

What am I thankful for?

1. My Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ
2. My family
3. My church
4. My friends
5. Unexpected opportunities
6. My country
7. The four seasons
8. Answered prayer
9. Food
10. Forgiveness
11. Freedom
12. Laughter
13. Modern medicine

I know that there are flaws with every system, including the one our medical community is a part of.  I've seen both positive and negative things, but I'm still grateful for modern medicine.

I've seen it save lives.  There are 2 lives I am especially grateful for that may not be here today without modern medicine: Sean's and Elaina's.





Sean in the NICU

My son Sean's life was spared because of modern medicine.  Without it, his underdeveloped lungs didn't have a chance.  I am grateful for the doctors who helped him!



Elaina in the NICU

My daughter, Elaina, needed the NICU for a week, just like her brother.  She didn't have quite the extreme need as her brother, but she still needed monitoring and help learning to eat and grow.  I am grateful that she got such great help and care!



I know quite a few mothers, actually, who have had babies in the NICU, some for months, some for days.  I know each and every one is grateful for the care the staff took of their little miracles.  I know they all feel that, without modern medicine, that their babies wouldn't be here today.

But modern medicine doesn't just include the NICU.  It includes so much more than that!  Herbal medicines and remedies have come such a long way; pain medication, antibiotics, vaccines - everything has come so far!  We live in a world that is not what it was medically speaking 100 years ago or even 20 years ago.  No, things are not perfect, and you can pick and choose what you like - but how great is that even?  So many options now.  THAT is something to be grateful for. :) 

My family, who all have been helped in some way by modern medicine.

I think about my brother and sister-in-law in Africa who are grateful for the doctors here who have taken care of their youngest, Lili, and her heart issues and for the doctors they have been able to find when needed in Africa.

I think about my sister and her hubby who have needed medical procedures over the years from Appendectomies to exploratory surgeries, etc.  How grateful I am that there was a doctor around when needed!

I think about my parents who have had different procedures done from heart surgeries to back surgeries to many other outpatient things.  My mom, in fact, is having surgery today on her heart (If you think about it, keep her in your thoughts and prayers, please!  Thanks! :) ), and I'm amazed that they consider the type of surgery she's having done as "routine" and "minor" now.  Blows my mind!

I've had different surgeries over the years, too, and with my Fibro, I'm grateful for a doctor who is willing to work with me and who is knowledgeable about my condition and what to do for it (including being willing to let me take the more natural route, though I'm grateful for Meloxicam when I need it).  I'd be lost without that!

There are so many "modern miracle" stories out there related to medicine.  Oh, I know that God steps in and touches lives, but He also uses modern medicine, too.  I am blessed to have it available to me and mine!

To anyone in the field of medicine: Thank you!  Thank you for devoting your lives to helping others.  Thank you for spending sleepless nights and countless days when you could have been with your family to help mine!  Thank you for doing what I cannot.  Thank you for your service.

~ What "modern miracle" are you grateful for? ~

Share your story below or link it up on my Twenty-Two Days of Thanks page (it's the bottom link in the left sidebar). I'd love to hear from you!

***

UPDATE: I just wanted to give you all an update on my mom.  Within 5 minutes they found the problem with her heart and were able to do an oblation.  It doesn't look like she'll need a pacemaker, either.  In fact, the doctor thinks he "cured" her so she won't need heart meds anymore either!  She should be home tonight, too. :)  God is good!  Thank you all for your thoughts and prayers!

NEWEST UPDATE, 11/19/12: Please continue to pray for my mom.  She is still having some tachycardia episodes, so it looks like the pacemaker may be needed after all and sooner than later.  We're not sure if this is an adjustment period for her heart, if her heart is not making the adjustment like it's supposed to, if there is another problem area that didn't present itself during the procedure or what, but we know that God is in control!  Thank you all for your prayers and thoughts!  They are much appreciated!

NEW UPDATE, 12/20/12: Thank you all for praying for my mom!  The doctor does seem to think that the continued issues are due to the surgery and, in time, her heart will heal and the problems will cease.  We will know in a few months time if a pace maker will be needed or not.  They have changed her meds completely and she is doing a lot better.  Her doctor is reasonable confident that she will not need the pace maker, but time will tell for sure.  Thank you for your continued prayers! :)

(This post was originally posted on my original site, Fibro, Fit and Fab!)