Life With The Lyons Family!!!

Wow! God Is SO Good!!

2012-01-14T21:03:00.002-05:00

I don't want to get into too much detail, but we are in awe tonight of something God put into action! We found out yesterday that Devin was officially accepted to Liberty University in Lynchburg, VA; a very good Christian college. We are VERY excited for him... but just as soon as the excitement hit us, reality hit us harder.

We have TWO kids going to TWO private colleges in the coming months! HOW are we going to pay for THAT?!?

As I went to bed last night, I said out loud, "OK God.... if this is Your plan, show us how that we are going to be able to make it all work without moving into a 2 bedroom shack and eating mac 'n cheese, rice, and beans for the next 4 years and that You have it under control." (Yep... I said it just like that!)!

Well... today He showed us that we can trust in His plan.

A church member, who shall remain nameless, sent Devin a VERY heartfelt long letter. We don't know this church member well, but he was very touched by the struggles Devin has had the last year and how Devin has overcome them. He also recently realized that Devin's sister is Kayleigh, the girl our whole church has been praying for during her recent health struggles. It was then that he decided to help Devin out in a way that has left us speechless. This persons donation to Devin's education will cover the cost of books for his first semester!

Speechless....
Grateful....
Humbled.....

In the letter this person said to not think of it as him giving money to Devin Lyons... but, instead, it was God using him to help another family.

This person is right, but in a way that I bet he didn't even think of. He is right because He, through prayer, followed what he felt God was leading him to do, to help Devin out a bit.

But, he also helped Mike and I realize that God has it ALL under control! It was the answer to my "conversation" with God last night. It was God's way of telling me that He has it ALL under control!

Wow!

New Year... New Me!

2012-01-13T17:15:00.004-05:00

We kicked off the new year with our dear friends, Neal and Dawnya Taylor-Schroeder. This has been a tradition for the last 3 years now and we always enjoy our time with them! This year we spent time around the house, bowling, eating, praying, reminiscing, and hiking!

While they were here, Dawnya and I spent a great deal of time talking... sorting out decisions we've made in the last year, how they've affected us, what situations crossed our paths, and where we were with our faith and what we felt like we needed some help with.

For me, I confided in her that I was feeling very unsure of myself and over-extended. We have had a LOT thrown at us in the last year, especially over the last 6 months. I have tried very hard to face it head on and stay strong for my family; but truth be told, it's really been wearing on me. I asked Dawnya (who has been VERY active in her church over the years and has faced some issues of her own in the last year) "how do you know when it's time to give up something or when it's time to step back from something you're doing in the ministry?". We talked about making sure we were doing things for the right reason, and really praying for clarity and direction. New Year's Eve, before we went to bed, she and I prayed together that we would both see a clear view of what God's path for us is in 2012 and that we would obey his direction.

Woke up New Year's Day and headed to church and things became VERY clear! Our Minister of Discipleship preached that morning, John Williams. I love it when he preaches because it always hits home for me in one way or another. Maybe it's because he and his wife Laurie have 4 kids who are always in and out of the doctors office or ER like ours... or maybe it's just because God uses him to speak exactly what I need to hear when I need to hear it!

That morning was NO different. John talked about how in Revelation 2:3-4 the Lord says "You have persevered and have endured hardships for my name, and have not grown weary. Yet I hold htis against you: You have forsaken the love you had at first.". In plain terms... the Lord was saying to the church of Ephasus: 'YES, you have done good things, taught of Me, and endured much hardship along the way.... but you forgotten that I am your first love!' It's all about doing the right thing... but doing them for the right reasons!

I'm reading a book right now called "The Christian Atheist: Believing in God But Living As If He Does't Exist. In the first chapter the author, Craig Grosche, talks about that realization when he says "And as my love for ministry burned hotter, my passion for Christ cooled". He was doing all the right things! Preaching, loving, serving, praying, ministering... but he forgot about his passion for Christ, the REASON he was doing all of those things.

I guess what I'm getting at is the "New Me" part. I have been serving in the youth ministry for two years now and I have LOVED it! There isnt' much that tears me away from Sunday nights. Since getting involved with them, I have had a passion to be there and love on those kids! But, since November when we were slammed with the news of Kayleigh being sick yet again, I have changed. The strong Mother that most of you are most familiar with became weak, angry, and frustrated. I even wrote a blog about it where I said "I am NOT OK!". After listening to John Williams on New Year's Day and then reading it again in Craig Grosche's book, I quickly realized that Sunday night youth group is where I needed to step down from. If I'm really being honest with myself, for the last few months I've been there for ME and not for the girls. I've been there for the worship and prayer time because it made ME feel better about where we were at in our life. When I realized this, I realized that I really am in no position to LEAD others right now, but I need to be led and fed spiritually ....

So, last Sunday, I tearfully said goodbye to my High School Girls Group 1 for a while.

This year, specifically this next 6 months, my focus is on rebuilding my own heart and faith and preparing to send off 2 of my 4 children to college and enter a new phase of my own life. I'm excited to get back into The Truth Project on Monday nights with dear friends, and I'm excited to continue studying the Word in a great small group led by the Lydick's.

I surely will miss Anna, Savannah, Hannah, Charity, Madison, Alex, and Elisabeth. But, I know that God has big plans over the coming months!

I Am Not "OK"...

2011-12-11T19:40:00.003-05:00

Many have asked me the last few days "How are you?". My response is usually "I'm ok... just tired."

But if I'm keeping it real. I am not ok. Period.

I am angry.
I am sad.
I am frustrated.
I am tired.
I am worn out.

I am angry about of all the "junk" that has happened in our family in 2011! We have endured everything from the loss of best friends, to serious illness, to job changes, to troubled teens, to financial chaos, to stress in our marriage... we've seen it all. Way more than what I (selfishly) think should be our fair share!

I often feel sad and alone. I feel like I have to be the one in the house to keep things light and airy when things go wrong. I am usually the optimist in our house and Mike is more of a realist with a tad of pessimist thrown in now and again. Sometimes, I need the ability to just fall apart into someone else's arms for support and love. I am tired of being the happy strong one.

I get frustrated when I constantly hear people say "I don't know how you do it" or "you are so strong". Everyone assumes I am so strong and have it all together. I do not. I promise you.

I am tired of constantly worrying about what is around the next corner that is going to hit us head on! I am especially tired of seeing my daughter endure so very much at such a young age! Yes, she does it with grace and faith like none other.... but I am sure that even she.is.tired!

I am worn out plain and simple.

Tonight, I keep reading over and over Matthew 11:28... "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest."

Father God, our family is weary. We are tired. We need Your help for peace and rest. Amen.

"Just Suck it Up"...

2011-12-03T16:22:00.004-05:00

These are words I will NEVER say again to any of my kids. Let me start from the beginning...

Kayleigh's boyfriend, Justin, flew in on Tuesday from Colorado. She hasn't seen him since June, when she was still one very sick chickadee! She spent most of Tuesday through Saturday with him other than to sleep, so Mike and I hardly saw her at all. Saturday afternoon I picked her up to take her gift registry shopping with a dear friend of ours. Throughout the store she was very quiet. She did complain on and off about feeling tired and getting short of breath easy. She said it started Friday and she just had no energy. The more she talked about it, the more frustrated I became (yeah.... this is about where my foot was firmly planted in my mouth....).

After we were done shopping, we dropped off Cindy. When it was just Kayleigh and I, I told her that I really thought she was falling into a habit of having something to complain about around Justin because that's where they left off before. Reminded her that part of her disease process is extreme fatigue, she'd have to learn to adjust to things like that, and really "just suck it up once in a while...". When she got out of the car, I knew she was upset. But, I drove away anyhow.

Sunday evening was the next time I really saw Kayleigh enough to see something was definitely NOT right! She was very winded and seemed kind of pale. She went downstairs to her room and I followed shortly after to check on her. She told me that going up and down the stairs was quite difficult and she had pain in the right side of her chest when she was breathing. Still, I wasn't OVERLY worried, but I was concerned enough to call a friend of ours who is a pulmonologist. He suggested taking her in to our family doctor first thing in the morning, unless it worsened.

Monday morning, before leaving for work, I stopped and checked in on Kayleigh. She told me it was becoming more difficult to breathe, but she was ok. I went on to work and Mike took her to the doctor at 10am. The doctor did a chest xray, but with stable vitals he told her that he thought maybe it was pleurisy. Gave her an inhaler and antibiotic and sent her on her way. No more than 30 minutes after Kayleigh sent me the message she was ok and going home, our family doctor called us with news that made me feel like the world's WORST parent! "Pediatric radiology called from Baptist, you and Michael need to get Kayleigh to the ED NOW, she has a collapsed right lung".

And I told her 2 days ago she was fine and to "suck it up!".

This starts our whirlwind week. Monday was very fast paced. Got to the ED where pediatric surgery was waiting on her and put in a chest tube to evacuate the air that was causing the collapsed lung. A CT scan later in the evening indicated it helped, but it didn't do the trick completely and they recommended surgery. Her chances of recurrence without the surgery went from 50% if the chest tube worked, now to 75%. She was made NPO and admitted, with surgery scheduled for the next day.

Tuesday, her surgeon and anesthesiologist took EVERY precaution to be certain Kayleigh didn't have any trouble with her dysautonomia during surgery. They "salt loaded" her to be sure her BP stayed up, they put her on an external pacer to keep her heart rate regular, AND they gave her an injection of epinephrine to up her baseline heartrate (which was a little low from the morphine). Off she went to the OR.

Surgery went exactly as planned. Kayleigh had little blistery type things called "blebs" on the top of her right lung. One of these blebs (the white one in the middle) popped creating a hole that let air get in the space between the pleura and the lung, thus pushing down and collapsing the lung. So, they just cut out the portion of the lung that had these blebs on it, stapled it closed, and she was done. Took about 3 hours in total and before we knew it the surgeon came out to the waiting room to tell us she did great and they were wheeling her into recovery. He said we'd get to see her in about 45 minutes and she'd go to an intermediate care room for the night, then back to the floor. No big deal.

Well... we ALL know Kayleigh does things her OWN way! 45 minutes turned into over an hour when we started wondering what on earth was going on. When a nurse finally came to get us, Kayleigh was being wheeled to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit!!! They didn't say much, just not to be alarmed, but they thought Kayleigh needed a bit closer attention with all she had going on. They were kind of quiet about it.

After they got her all settled into the PICU we slowly learned more info. Turned out, as was VERY evident to us, Kayleigh did NOT want to wake up after anesthesia. She could nod her head yes and no and her eyes were "sort of" open. But she couldn't speak and she had no purposeful eye contact at all. She seemed so very distant and very far away. At the same time, she was beautiful. And her Daddy pointed out that watching her breathe in and out, and watching her pulse, was the most beautiful thing EVER!

While in the PICU I noticed a ventilator near her bed. Didn't really think twice about it, after all it's an ICU. Figured they were in all the rooms. The next morning (Wednesday) the nurse came in to get it and made a comment about being glad they didn't need it. I asked what she meant, she then said that in the recovery room, Kayleigh had difficulty breathing on her own after surgery, so they were told to have it available. I'm sure I went blank at that point because she reassured me that at no point did she even think she would need it!

Later that morning (still Wednesday) Kayleigh's surgeon (who is FAN-FLIPPIN-TASTIC!) came in and turned off the vacuum seal on her chest tube. He said they'd get an xray in a few hours, see how it looked, and maybe even pull her chest tube out so that she could go home Thursday evening. SWEET!!! Around 2:30 they came and did the xray in the PICU, then moved her to the adolescence floor. I asked about the xray and was told they'd read it and come see us on 9. No problem!

HA! Remember.... It's KAYLEIGH!!! Problem....

We weren't on 9 more than 30 minutes when the nurse came in and said the doctor was on his way up, but she had orders to put Kayleigh back on vacuum seal right away. Well crap! I was afraid this meant we were heading back to the PICU. Dr. P came in and explained that her lung was not staying inflated on it's own quite yet and showed an area that was still collapsed. He decided that for Kayleigh, vacuum for another 24 hours would be the plan, he'd try her off of it again on Thursday morning. Thankfully, Dr. P said she could stay on 9 as long as her vitals remained stable. She was "sort of" waking up a little (yep - 24 hours post op and we were still wanting to stay asleep!) and that was the primary reason she was in the PICU anyhow.

Thursday morning came and they did another xray ON the vacuum.... still a small leak so vacuum stays ANOTHER day!!! Thankfully, Thursday she was feeling better and we even let some visitors come. She was in and out of it most of the day, but she at least was able to visit during her "with it" times. Later in the afternoon during routine vitals they discovered Kayleigh was starting to fever. They jumped right on that and got her on antibiotics again because they suspected something was brewing.

Friday morning Dr. P came in right as radiology did. He read the first xray as she did it (vacuum still on) and he seemed more pleased with the lung itself, other than she now had fluid.... awesome.... pneumonia starting! Thankfully, the day before the nurses were on it and already had a resident start Kayleigh on antibiotics. Dr. P then turned off vacuum seal for another try and said he'd see us at 2:30 for another xray. If it looked good, he'd pull the tube out Saturday morning so we could hopefully come home on Sunday.

At 2:30 we ended up going downstairs to xray instead of them coming to us so they could get some better views. About 3:30, in walks doc who said "how'd ya like to get rid of that tube?". Kayleigh was THRILLED! Within 15 minutes the tube was gone!

Saturday morning Dr. P came in to see her. He was pretty pleased with her vitals and sent us to xray. Said if the xray was good - we could go home a day earlier than expected. Woo-hoooo!!!

But... again.... she is KAYLEIGH! Nothing goes as planned in Kayleigh's world!

Kayleigh got up to go to the bathroom and noticed she had a pocket of swelling on her lower back. No where CLOSE to where surgery was, but it was sizable! The area was comparable to a dessert plate just above the sacrum and was very fluid filled. The nurse paged the doctor who then ordered more xrays. A little while later one of the doctors came in and said her chest xray was clear, but she couldn't do the discharge quite yet because of this new development. Ugh!!! She looked at Kayleigh's area again and then went to radiology to talk to the radiologist. We anxiously waited for her to return.

Over an hour later the doctor came back and said the sweetest words..... "you can go home today!".

We are now home and she is resting comfortably on her very own couch.

She will see the surgeon in 2 weeks, and she also has to see someone for the swollen area on her lower back. But, she should recovery completely with very little chance of this happening ever again.

Praise God for our sweet angel!!!

Whew... Been a While!

2011-11-27T13:57:00.014-05:00

According to the date on my last post... it's been over a month since I've updated! I'll do my best to catch everyone up on the last 6 weeks!

We had a Sunday afternoon free (rare for us!) so Mike and I took Chase and Paige to Pilot Mountain to climb and hike a bit. Paige gets braver and braver every time we go and Chase always tries to climb the tallest of rocks! Makes me nervous, but I love spending time with them like this! Always makes for great memories!!

November 2nd we celebrated our 20th wedding anniversary. Mike and I enjoyed an entire late afternoon and evening together. We topped off the night at Carrabas for a nice dinner. A disheveled lady walked in and sat alone at a table beside us and proceeded to pull out her knitting stuff. I tried hard not to chuckle and succeeded for a few minutes.... until the waitress asked her what she'd like to drink and the lady pulled out her own can of Diet Shasta soda!!! Mike and I were SURE that Candid Camera was closeby!!

We had Paige's 9th birthday party on Friday November 4th... a few days early! She invited a few of her best friends over for a night of manicures and movies - compliments of her big sister, Kayleigh! Paige was MORE than thrilled with her Password Journal from Mommy and Daddy, and the girls had a blast!!!

2 days later Paige had quite the accident! She was playing at one of her best friend's house and fell coming out of the tree house. Mike and I were at home when we got the phone call that they were taking her to the hospital because it appeared she had broken her jaw.... YIKES!! When we got there she was calmed down and doing ok. After 4 1/2 hours, a bunch of xrays, and big sister keeping her calm... the verdict was no fracture... but she definitely needed her chin glued up!

November 19th was a big day around our house... Kayleigh, Chase, and my best friend Jen's daughter Juli were all baptized at our church. Kayleigh and Chase were baptized as infants, but decided to do this on their own to acknowledge their commitment to Christ. So proud of all 3 of them!!!

Later the same day we decked our halls for the Holiday! Decorating our house is always a big family event with lots of laughs and memories shared decorating the many trees we put up!

Ever since my lifelong friend, Jenni, and her family moved here a few years ago, we've celebrated Thanksgiving with them. This year was extra special because Jim's parents, Bill and Sue, were here from Arizona to celebrate with us AND Kayleigh's boyfriend, Justin, flew in from the Air Force Academy for a few days. Coincidentally... this is the only picture I took of Thanksgiving Day!!

Yesterday afternoon was super fun. Very dear friends, Jay and Cindy Dietrich, are adopting a sweet little girl. Mike and I, with the Heinz family, are hosting an Adoption Celebration to help them prepare for Sarah Elizabeth to come home soon. Kayleigh, Paige, and I took Cindy to Target so she could do her gift registry. Paige had a blast "shooting" all the price tags and finding fun things for Sarah to have waiting for her! We are so very excited for Jay and Cindy and are thankful to be able to do this for them after ALL they did for us this summer when Kayleigh was sick!

Today it's just been Mike, Paige, and I. We ended up missing church, but have had a great day! Paige insisted on making Daddy a big breakfast (with a little help from Mommy of course!) and she was so excited that he enjoyed every bit of it! After breakfast, Paige even cleaned the entire breakfast mess!

After breakfast Paige helped me make Grandma Casto's famous Chocolate Pie! She enjoyed "cleaning up" what was left after the pie was poured into the shell.... but that IS the best part of making the pie.... right!?!

That's it... 6 weeks of Lyons life in one post! I'll try hard to not go another 6 weeks without an update!

Much love!

Video Series on Dysautonomia

2011-10-20T17:54:00.003-04:00

As many of you know, Kayleigh was diagnosed with a complicated form of Dysautonomia this summer after some testing on July 5th followed by a prolonged hospital stay. I ran across these videos on the DINET forum and it explains Dysautonomia perfectly. If you have walked this path with us or if you know Kayleigh well and spend time with her regularly, I ENCOURAGE you to watch this video to better understand what she goes through on a daily basis. The series is long (they are in order here)... but it is very worth it!

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

We hope this helps! It certainly has helped us... we are learning more about her disease each and every day!

"Consider it Pure Joy...."

2011-09-19T19:30:00.004-04:00

I've been blogging a few years now. A while back I posted a blog titled "Our Conflicting Views on Prayer" that listed just some of the trials Michael and I have endured. (You can click on the title if you want to read it.) Since then we can add a few things to the list.... nearly losing our daughter this summer for one, and then last week nearly losing my father.

I have recited James 1:2-3 many times to myself over the last several years....

"Consider it PURE JOY, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because yo know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance."

I'm not very good at following His word here. And if I'm being completely honest with myself, at times I even get angry because I feel like I've been given my fair share of trials and tribulations to be joyful about! I even "joked" with a friend last week telling her "I get it.... I'm JOYFUL... let someone ELSE be JOYFUL because I've had about all the JOY I can handle!".

Well this week, God gave me my "Come to Jesus Talk" on a few occasions...

First, at small group on Wednesday night we ended up on this very topic. What a true faith looks like. I didn't say much during our meeting time, but it was heavy on my heart all evening. I left there that night reminded that I really struggle with trusting God's ways through trials and having a true faith that His plan WILL prevail and guide me down His path. Then, at church yesterday, Pastor David laid it right back out there again! The message..... true faith in all situations!

I can't even venture a guess as to why we go through what we do, or why some seem to have it so much worse or easier than others. But, what I have realized is that I recite James 1:2-3 to myself as a way to comfort myself with the words and I rarely let the myself act on what it's telling me. Have a true faith and just give it up to God, let him take control and take over; no matter HOW hard the situation.

What we have learned and experienced is that when we do stand tall and persevere, we are more grateful. Grateful for our children, grateful for insurance, grateful for friends, grateful for church community, grateful for family.... just grateful! And JOYFUL that we have children, insurance, friends, church community, family, and more!

He doesn't want us to go it alone.... he doesn't want us to fret and worry. He wants us to give it up to Him. To have faith. A true faith. "And without faith it is IMPOSSIBLE to please God..." (Hebrews 11:6).

Goodbye Sweet Boy...

2011-09-07T20:47:00.005-04:00

-Andy earned his angel wings September 6th, 2011 at approximately 9pm-

We are so grateful to have rescued you and given you a good life for the last 5 years. We will love you and miss you always!

Happy 13th Birthday CHASE!

2011-08-14T09:54:00.003-04:00

Chase turns 13 years old today, at 12:25pm to be precise! What a day that was for all of us. Grandma and Grandpa Casto made the drive to Bloomington for your birth - we were so glad they were there!

Chase was determined to be born that day regardless of the planned c-section! I woke up that morning and went into labor before we even left for the hospital. Created quite the stir when we got to the hospital considering I HAD to have a c-section! Little did we know that was just the beginning of the day's chaos.

After all 9 pounds 6 ounces of Chase was delivered via c-section things got pretty ugly for a while. I remember being in the recovery room and Mike being with me. Then all the nurses scurrying around, Mike being pushed out of the room, and then rushing me back into surgery. At one point, after losing several pints of blood, the nurse went out to tell Mike and my parents I was bleeding bad and they weren't able to stop it - the outcome was looking very grim. Fortunately, by the power of God, they were wrong.

I don't remember anything after recovery until the next day when I was told what happened. Mike looked at me with tears in his eyes saying I scared them all and I was never to do that again. He was terrified of losing me and being a single father of 3.

I spent the next week in the hospital and then was able to go home. We have enjoyed every minute of watching Chase grow up !

Chase - you bring so much joy to our lives! We're so very proud of how far you've come and we know that you will continue to reach for the stars! We love you Buddy! Mom and Dad

What a Blessing She Is!

2011-08-07T21:14:00.000-04:00

A Note From Kayleigh...

2011-08-03T20:17:00.000-04:00

Yes I know it is long but please take the time to read it.

2011.

For those of you who know me particularly well, you know that I am not a fan of odd numbers. For those of you who know me in general, I am a pretty optimistic person about anything. I wasn't too thrilled about the new year partially because of the odd number, but also because the past two years, the new year has started rather badly, but I worked my hardest to stay positive about it all. January and February are typically the hardest months I deal with each year, and my heart hoped badly that this year could be different than the last two. Let me take you back a little bit. My freshman year on February 18, a close friend of mine and beautiful soul to so many others passed away at fifteen. Mckanna Elaine Young was an amazing girl and it hurts to wonder what had gotten her to the place she ended in, but I forever love her and hold onto her soul. My sophomore year on January 12, another friend and comedic heart who lightened any persons day also passed away. Michael Robert Lovelady, much like Mckanna always brought a smile to everyone's face. Heading into the new year of my junior year of high school..my heart was already sore from holding onto Michael and Mckanna..and my biggest wish was for this year to be normal..for everything to stay the same and to just give God control and have an amazing year. Much as things go, though..things couldn't be that easy.

Nicholas Doub..oh my dear, what a person. Nick was the type of person to always bring a smile to your face no matter what situation, what time of day, what place you're in and he took advantage of that without ever realizing he did so. I met Nick my freshman year and we had always been close friends since the day he walked up and said hi and gave me a hug..no hesitations..not knowing me..no judgment. That is just how he was. You know those comments and jokes people tell that stop you in your tracks and you give yourself a facepalm and laugh at whoever said it? Nicki was the type who could tell those jokes and say those things and make people's hearts lighter because of the aura he had when he said them. I can think back to so many times..he could run up and say things like "One day, a guy walked into a bar and said ouch...don't you get it? Like a bar, bar like ouch (smacks head)." and "I tried to run you over today, it didn't work," and everyone would just smile and giggle because he had the biggest grin on his face when he said these things. Yeah, that was the wonderful essence of Nick that I remember and love..and miss. Six days into the new year, everything seemed normal at 7:40 in the morning. I was disobeying rules and was on the computer the morning of January sixth, had just eaten breakfast, as I'm sure Nick had, too. No one expected it to be any extraordinary day, though it ended up to be one of the hardest the school had ever faced. I was talking to Nick that morning online, looking forward to the day ahead, not really about anything in particular and around 8 he had to get offline and head to school. (We go to two schools together and the one happens to be across town.) The last think Nicki said was "Today is going to be a great day! I just know it!! See you later Kayleigh! :DD" and he was gone. 8:36 am on January 6, 2011..the Nick I knew and loved was suddenly shattered. Three days were spent in and out of his hospital room...within none of them did he ever wake up..ever move..ever look at anyone with those beautiful blue eyes again. I have often wished I could go back to that morning and tell him everything I never did..how much he means to me, how his smile lights up my day, how loved he is, by everyone and me..but I didn't need to tell him those things for him to know..he knew he was loved. As we filed in through that ICU room all weekend, he may not have been awake..but I know he heard every person who came in to tell him see you later..that everything is going to be okay. 11:42 pm on January 9, 2011, Nicki was gone up with the Lord, seated beside Him, forever loved.

Four days later, January 13, 2011. The day of Nick's funeral, one day after Michael's one year anniversary. Hundreds of people were packed into that church hall..all for Nick..all for his family, all for each other. God's presence was so alive in that room it was hard to focus..and Nick was there beside us all, telling us he was okay as we sat there, looking at him almost as if he were sleeping. That day is one of the hardest I have ever endured.

I've learned from experience, and from being taught, that with every bad situation, there is a bright outcome. Nick gave his organs and is going to save seven other lives with them. Nick brought at least one person to faith. Nick brought us all together as a family and gave us the opportunity to bond and create everlasting friendships. And, through those bonds, he brought someone to me to comfort me who is now my boyfriend of almost seven months, Justin Michael Dant.

On January 16, 2011, I started dating Justin Michael Dant, who, to this day has become a saving grace to me.

The first few weeks were difficult..I often shut people out and didn't want to speak to anyone at all. It almost seemed as if everything was spiraling down, if my melodramatic self might say. I wanted Nick back and that was that...but I finally started to realize it wouldn't happen and surrounded myself with friends and family, loved ones and looked more to the good than the bad. Things finally started to feel normal. The musical had started and rehearsals often kept me busy, as well as being with Justin and close friends, they served as a good distraction, especially through Mckanna's two year anniversary. Things finally seemed okay again. I started to plan things again, and had a military ball and youth retreat coming up. For the time being, I was focusing on my life and the people in it and staying busy. Youth retreats have always been something I adore because it gives me a chance to get away and really get some Kayleigh-God time that is sometimes hard to get when I'm surrounded by people. I left for the retreat the day after a wonderful night at a military ball with Justin. Rehearsals were going well, things were starting to build back up..but again..things can't always go perfect, can they. March 18, we lost another sweet Reagan Raider after she was hit by oncoming traffic after suddenly turning into the street. Brooke Elizabeth Edwards, like everyone else, always brought smiles to peoples faces. I wasn't as close to Brooke, but several friends were and seeing everyone in pain was upsetting. We held a memorial at school for both Nick and Brooke, and the two teachers that passed away during the school year, as well.

I started to get sick at the beginning of April, as I generally do every spring, but this time was different...two nights before the opening night of the rehearsal, I collapsed backstage and was unconscious for 25 minutes, then started seizing. I was sent by ambulance to Baptist ER where we waited in the lobby for two hours after which I felt find and the doctors did not do anything, and I went home. Besides being very tired and feeling sick, I felt somewhat normal and went on stage for all three nights. The show much go on, no? I was kept under close watch of my mother and other cast members backstage and the show went pretty well. After a few weeks, though, I noticed I started feeling worse and was tired much more often, the days started to get longer and soon, appointments were being scheduled to figure out what was going on. Until the appointments came in late may, I took each day step by step.

Now, I am not one to admit my fears or when I'm upset because other people are more important in my eyes..but after May 10th, I had hit a point near rock bottom and couldn't risk keeping it all to myself anymore. Jessie Hill Davis passed away after battling her entire life with cistic fibrosis. If ever I had to point out one incredibly strong person in my life..her name comes to mind because this is a nasty disease, its painful and hard to live with, but she managed. She had died once and was revived and kept on smiling. Being the third Raider lost within five months, everyone was on edge and fearing any more loss. I went to her viewing with Justin..and the feeling of the entire reason we were there was one that was extremely hard to understand..but again with the help of others, and prayers being sent out from all over, we all managed to pull through as best we could together.

A week after Jessie passed away was when most of my physical health started to go downhill. It had gotten so bad to the point where I was pulled out of school and put on homebound because I couldn't go an entire day without going into the office to sit and rest for a while because I felt incredibly sick and tired, occasionally dizzy as well. I was thankfully able to finish out the school year on time and summer had started. My summer basically revolved around trying to feel the best that I could and spending most waking moments with Justin become on June 22nd, he left for the US Air Force Academy in Colorado. The only contact I was given with him after he left was through letters, which was difficult, but for him and our relationship, more than worth it. After he left, I continued to go into what we called a "downward spiral" and was scheduled for tests and procedures at Duke Hospital in early July. One of which, told us a lot but left a lot of struggle with understanding afterwords. On July 5th, I was scheduled for a Tilt Table test. This test is about forty minutes long..but twenty three minutes into it, my heart stopped and I was clinically dead for fifteen seconds. After pushing meds through an IV and being brought back to consciouness, I was left with a lot of confusion as to what had happened and why things were so bad...understanding it all was hard..but a few days later Justin was given his phone and I had the opportunity to talk to him and gather my thoughts and he helped settle my anxious mind as he always has.

July 11th is when it all started to go down...I was at home that Monday and started feeling very fatigued with chest pain and dizziness, and my vision was blurry. I noticed my blood pressure was rising throughout the day and as it got higher, my heart rate got lower, to the point where for a while it was at 32 beats per minute where the average is 80. My mom came home and we spent a while debating what to do and finally decided to go to Baptist ER once more and I was immediately admitted. I spent two days at Baptist..in which, I had a very bad episode where I remember thinking at one point that I was going to die. Admitting that I am scared is something hard for me to do but I legitimately do not remember ever having felt that much pain and discomfort in so long. On the thirteenth, I was sent home and less than twelve hours later was in a car on the way to Duke Medical Center where I was directly admitted and would be staying for the next two weeks. I spent the days from July 14th to July 25th in the pediatric cardiac unit of Duke Hospital under watchful and very bipolar eyes of nearly seventeen doctors, all switching out each day, debating tasks, choices to make and what to do. At one point, we nearly told the doctors off and I remember thinking that it feels like one step forward and two steps back. I wanted to be home and I wanted everything to just stop and be okay.

Each day I would wake up and read back through messages and letters from Justin, people came to visit me and distract me for a while and my family supported me each step of the way. After several doctors we had to fight with, I was finally given two who both seemed to finally listen to me, the patient, and seemed to actually care about the situation. After carefully adjusting meds and other daily schedules I'd need to follow, and after two weeks of fighting painful and uncomfortable PVCS, Couplets and Bijemy (irregular heart rhythms, skipping beats, doubling beats), not sleeping well and homesickness..I was released the day before my seventeenth birthday and sent home.

Since then, Justin has his computer and I am able to talk to him and keep spirits up, and my friends and family check on me constantly and help me through it all, as well as my God. I am doing better now physically, and still miss Nick, Brooke and Jessie often times, but none of it compares to how thankful I am to be here.

I'm at the point where it has finally hit me how close I was to losing my life, multiple times..part of me wishes my summer hadn't have been spent in the hospital but had it not, my life would be at higher risk right now. Life is precious..and it is here for a reason.

Yes life is hard..it sucks sometimes and we want to give up more than anything, but the thing that I've learned is that its true life doesn't come easy, but its rewarding in the end no matter what you face. The challenges that hit you make you that much stronger in the end. You've been given this life to be thankful for, to live in and live with others and to spread God's love and enjoy the love He has given you. Don't take it forgranted because in a simple second, it could be gone.

I wouldn't trade anything, anyone, any moment, not even the worse, of my life for anything, no matter how hard it has been. Obviously, I have a purpose for being here or I wouldn't be and I'm more excited to see what that reason is then to sit with regrets about what I have dealt with.

I am who I am because of who God made me, and because of the people in my life that have surrounded me and taken the time to put forth effort to care about me.

Thank you to my God for giving me life. Thank you to my parents and family for not giving up on me. Thank you Justin for never leaving my side through all of this and for being such a saving grace to me even from so far away. Thank you to my church family for the prayers and strength. Thank you to my friends who support me and have prayed for me across this whole journey. Thank you to myself for not giving up.

The road ahead of me is difficult...but you know what? I don't care. It's worth ever second. For every moment of pain there are two more of joy. The trials of this life are His mercies in disguise.

Keep the faith, hold the hope, never give up and never let go.

God bless, I love you guys.

Kayleigh

Dysautonomia... What Is It, Anyhow?

2011-07-31T13:37:00.002-04:00

Many people have asked us exactly what is wrong with Kayleigh. It does have a name, although it is hard to explain.

Dysautonomia is a dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system in the body. The autonomic nervous system regulates the automatic organ functions of the body that occur on their own... things like heart rate, blood pressure, your temperature, your respiration, your digestion, etc. In Dysautonomia, some of these things don't function properly sending the body into chaos. Often, the symptoms are so unrelated to each other that it's tough to diagnose.

There are 4 types of Dysautonomia and Kayleigh has been diagnosed with 3 types as of the time of discharge from Duke Med! Lucky her!

Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome - basically it is when the body is unable to adjust blood pressure and heart rate when a person goes from sit to stand. In Kayleigh's case, when she is sitting and stands up, her heartrate goes up by about 50 beats per minute and her blood pressure drops drastically... all within seconds of standing up. Kind of like an orthostatic hypotension to the max! There are also other things involved in POTS that aren't understood that make one fatigued, weak, and unable to function.

Neurocardiogenic Syndrome - This is characterized also by a rapid drop in blood pressure, but also a rapid drop in heart rate causing the person affected to pass out and sometimes even become asystolic (not have a heartbeat at all for a period of time). Asystole is what the doctors believe has happened to Kayleigh on at least 2 occasions - once when she collapsed on April 12th at school and once during a test they performed at Duke Med on July the 5th.

Primary Autonomic Failure - This is kind of the biggie that lumps everything all together and caused her spiral downward. PAF is a degenerative disorder of the Autonomic Nervous System where her ANS just slowly started to shut down. In Kayleigh's case specifically, it started with a slow decrease in heart rate and blood pressure over a period of time that was so subtle that it went unnoticed because she was functioning pretty well, just got tired easy. As it progressed her ability to eat a normal meal became a problem. She would get hungry, start to eat, and then become very nauseous because her digestive system wasn't responding properly. Eventually, it got to a point where she wasn't eating hardly anything other than things she knew would not make her sick. The worse it got, the less she ate, and her heart rate and blood pressure drastically started to drop, then her heart wasn't able to sustain a normal sinus rhythm. This eventually left her very lethargic, weak, fatigued, and unable to function at all. This, ultimately, is what took us to the Emergency Room on July 11th.

We are very grateful to the team at Duke Medical Center for putting ALL of the pieces of the puzzle together and being able to treat all of the symptoms involved. She will remain on a slew of medications to keep her heart beat and blood pressure where they need to be, allow the nausea to remain at bay and keep her appetite up, and help her maintain her energy and ability to live a normal life.

So blessed to live in a time where modern medicine can give her her life back!

Looking Back...

2011-07-30T14:10:00.002-04:00

I've had some time to sit and reflect over the last few weeks. Not sure that's completely a good thing because it's given me time to think about all of the "what if's...". But, it definitely has me appreciating life and the power of prayer!

I don't know that it completely occurred to me how close we came to losing Kayleigh on more than one occasion. Her illness has slowly been taking her body over, leaving her so weak and fatigued that her heart literally was just starting to give up. Our second night in the hospital, at Baptist, we must have had a roomful of doctors and nurses around when she first went into distress. They moved her bed over to make room for the "crash cart" and prepared us for what "could be". The room was oddly calm, I was in a bit of frozen panic, and all Mike could do was say "I get to yell CLEAR" nervously!

Later that night Mike and I were talking to the doctor in the hallway, leaving Kayleigh in the room with a dear friend. Kayleigh, with tears in her eyes, looked at Jen and said "I felt like I really was dying..." When Jen told me of this conversation, my heart just sunk for Kayleigh.

A few days later, while at Duke Med we found ourselves in a similar situation. The doctor that came in explained to us that they were on the verge of pulling the "code blue" switch in her room because her heart rate had just dipped way too low and she was in a dangerous heart rhythm.

There were several occasions where Kayleigh would go into a sustained dangerous rhythm where all we could do was run our fingers through her hair, speak softly to her reassuring her, and keep her calm. I would send out a prayer text to a group of people that simply would state "Pray NOW..." and within minutes she would return to a normal heart rhythm. The two times where Kayleigh was so dangerously close to cardiac arrest we silently prayed and only His healing hand was needed without any other intervention.

Kayleigh is recovering more each and every day! She is eating well again, has energy, and looks better than she has looked in months! We have learned that life is truly a fragile thing and we are not in control of if, only He is. I thank God at the start and finish of each day for not taking our Kayleigh home quite yet!

Life in the Creamsicle Castle

2011-07-25T14:22:00.005-04:00

Once upon a time, a princess named Kaybers, had a short stay in a Creamsicle Castle because she got very very sick. She went there to feel better and get stronger because there were lots of nice people there to help her.... but some were not so nice!

When Princess Kaybers first arrived at the Creamsicle Castle off her chariot, Dr. Confuzzled was nowhere to be found so Princess Kaybers was left to the others! They were all scratching their heads with what to do and enlisted the help of Dr. Stapleyourmouthshut, who was NOT very nice at all! Dr. Confuzzled arrived too late to save Princess Kaybers because Dr. Stapleyourmouthshut had already decided to make Princess Kaybers eat all kinds of strange meals (like salad, white rice, and wheat bread) and disregard the map that Dr. Confuzzled had already drew! Dr. Confuzzled decided to sit back and wait for the go ahead to take charge!

In the meantime, Dr. Stapleyourmouthshut put Dr. Perky on the case! Dr. Perky almost immediately decided that Dr. Stapleyourmouthshut was on to something and put Dr. Creeper in charge of peeking in on Princess Kaybers every chance he got! One of Dr. Perky's newbies, Dr. Coolstuff, stopped by late one evening and offered kind words that made Princess Kaybers smile again. Then, the next day, Dr. Perky's knight Dr. Superhero, disagreed with the way that Princess Kaybers had been treated and decided that maybe the help of Dr. Fairygodmother would help get Princess Kaybers out of this mess. So, the King and Queen reluctantly agreed to let the meeting happen.

Dr. Fairygodmother finally arrived a few days later and saved Princess Kaybers from Dr. Stapleyourmouthshut by saying that Princess Kaybers was just too weak before and really needed to be able to make some of her own choices! Princess Kaybers, the King, and the Queen were all very happy!

The next day, Dr. Superhero reenlisted the help of Dr. Confuzzled to make sure that everything was in place and they got back on the right plan! A few little changes did the trick and Dr. Superhero saved the day by rescuing Princess Kaybers on the eve of her birthday! Princess Kaybers was able to finally leave the Creamsicle Castle and return to her own castle on Foxbury Court where the next afternoon a celebration of friends gathered to welcome her home, and she lived happily ever after!

Light at the End of the Tunnel

2011-07-24T10:32:00.002-04:00

This is our girl, sitting up on a Sunday morning feeling great! PRAISE GOD!

We also are starting to feel like we see the light at the end of the tunnel! This is what all has happened this weekend...

1) We agreed to let her be seen by a psychologist yesterday morning (the last few weeks have really taken a toll on her). The psychologist said Kayleigh is "delightful", an "old soul", and that she thinks she will be just fine because she clearly has a great support system of friends and family. This little bit of encouragement almost IMMEDIATELY lifted Kayleigh's spirits! To be told you're not crazy is a big thing!

2) The IV Zofran has really helped her nausea and allows her to eat WAY more than she's been eating and her energy level has really improved. She has gone from only able to walk 1 or 2 laps around the unit to 6 laps before she fatigues. Over the weekend, we have successfully transitioned her from IV Zofran to oral Zofran without any trouble! One step closer to going home!

3) Watching the heartrate/blood pressure trends over the last few days finally had them see what we have been seeing and they have decreased her Midodrine dose to 7.5mg and we are starting to see more stabilized blood pressures and heartrates.

4) The multifocal and left ventricular PVCs are still present, but they are less intense and she is getting through them without the miserable scared to death look on her face.

And the best news of the day....

5) She will have a 24 hour holter monitor put on tomorrow morning and taken off Tuesday morning. We hope they read it Tuesday, but it may be Wednesday before we get the results. If the monitor shows that the nature of the PVCs has improved then we get to take her home SURGERY FREE Tuesday or Wednesday!!

So good to finally feel a bit of relief, see a smile on our girl's face, and to see the light at the end of the tunnel!

Friends Make The Days Go Faster!

2011-07-23T15:48:00.002-04:00

Nothing like a game of Hungry Hippo with Dean on Wednesday!

Thursday afternoon, Liz and Luke tagged along with Devin... and the Hungry Hippo competition continued!

Andrea tagging along with me on Friday was COMPLETELY unexpected! Loved the smile on Kayleigh's face as she walked in with me!!

A visit from Angie Hutchins was Saturday's surprise!

Community...

2011-07-20T07:57:00.005-04:00

Community
com-mu-ni-ti: noun, often attributive
Definition - a unified body of individuals

For us.... it starts at the building above..... River Oaks COMMUNITY Church

One of the sweeping themes through the entire Bible is the idea of God moving people into communities where they will bless others and others will be blessed by them. We have witnessed this direction of the Lord first hand during Kayleigh's illness by the love, support, and prayers of many people! There are many people who have put parts of their lives on hold to help our family out and it brings tears to our eyes each night thinking about the blessings that have came throughout the day.

Jenni and I have been like sisters for many years, and are very close. We met when we were around 5 years old! Our families are very intertwined and we often function as one BIG family! She and Jim have added Chase and Paige to their family for much of the last 8 days while Mike and I are 2 hours away with Kayleigh. Jenni has wiped away my tears after a long drive home, listened to me rant and rave, and offered support and prayer.

Jay and Cindy Dietrich have become very dear friends of ours from church. Cindy is referred to as Kayleigh's "Mama D" and Paige just adores her "Mr. Jay". Cindy has been with Kayleigh from day 1... even beat me to the school the night it all started! These two have given Jim and Jenni a reprieve from Chase and Paige and Cindy is always on call for support for Kayleigh (and me!).

Donna and Steve Heinz have helped us to pick up the pieces with Paige on several occasions over the last month. During our church's VBS, Paige stayed with them a few nights just so that she could attend and we could focus on Kayleigh. This week, while we have been 2 hours away, then again took Paige for a night that was a bit tough on Paige and helped to wipe away the tears and pray with her.

Angie Hutchins has been a HUGE support for Kayleigh, and for Mike and I. She has really helped us understand a lot of the medical terminology, taught us how to do Kayleigh's finger sticks and injections, and has traveled to Duke Children's for appointments with us to be that second set of ears. She and her husband Todd are AMAZING people with so much love for the Lord and for others!

Chip Herrera is Kayleigh's Youth Pastor at church. He and his wife Krista are so good to her and are just wonderful people. The night that Kayleigh was EMS'd to the hospital after collapsing, Chip met us there (without telling his sleeping wife I might add!) and stayed with us until almost 2am!! He always puts his youth kids first and Kayleigh adores him!

There are many, many other people who have also been with us every step of the way. Doug Todd, Eddie and Michelle Schapira, Wendy Warden, Kim and John Riggins... just to name a few!

Mike posted a few nights ago that he was "amazed by the love and charity being poured out upon my family through these trying times.... Honestly I have no clue how to respond to it all". Other than saying Thank You.... I have to agree with him! The community that has surrounded us, this huge body of individuals that have supported us these last few weeks is unlike anything we've ever experienced.

We have been blessed!

Santa Claus Came Today!!!

2011-07-19T21:37:00.003-04:00

The highlight of our day was Santa Claus! Yep... he was HERE! The look on Mike's face when Santa walked in the room was priceless and Kayleigh smiled great big! She even got a nailpolish gift set!

Other highlights of the day...

- She was deprived from breakfast and lunch for a radiology test that involved eating egg whites with a radioactive nuclear material in them... they ended up being FLORESCENT YELLOW! But she choked them down like a champ!

- Dr. Kanter came and talked to us about the findings of her halter that they did over the weekend. She had over 900 PVCs on it that were multifocal, some came two at at time, and some even came 3 at a time. He said he couldn't explain it, but wasn't comfortable with it and is looking into a few things.

- We started working very closely with nutrition to work on strategies to help her with meals. Through all of this she just hasn't been eating well. It was very comforting tonight to hear the doctor look at her and say "you do not meet the criteria for anorexia". I wanted to look at her and say duhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!!!!!! Think of it like a cancer patients... they just don't feel like eating so they have to come up with strategies to help out a bit.

- She had a special EKG done called a Signal Averaged Electrocardiogram that apparently gets down to the nitty gritty of each heartbeat.

- She also had a special echocardiogram done with some extra measurements. It was so cool to watch!!! Don't have a clue what all I was looking at.... but it was really neat to see the heart pumping and blood swooshing around!

- And did I mention Santa came?

We hope to get some results back tomorrow. Still talking about her being here several days. She's a bit sad about it, but is doing ok!

Now... time to finish our mother/daughter mani/pedi!

Today Was a Good Day

2011-07-18T21:32:00.002-04:00

Dr. Kanter is back!!!! Yeahhhh!!!!

He came in early this morning to see Kayleigh and started by saying that he has put the pacemaker on the back burner. He wants to get a good idea of the whole picture before he does it because he isn't convinced that it would fix all of what's going on now in light of recent overall decline. So - today we started with another stress test, tomorrow she'll have an echocardiogram done as well as another test down in radiology that will take a few hours. After he gets those results he will decide what's next.

Overall, today was a good day. She was feeling a little better, less nauseous, ate a little more, AND she had all of her family in the same place! My good friends, Donna and Cindy, brought Chase and Paige up for a visit, and Devin came a little later. It was so good to see them all together again! Can't wait for it to be back to "normal" around here!

We continue to have our socks blessed off by all the people around us!!

Thank you all!!!

Update on Kayleigh

2011-07-17T21:43:00.003-04:00

(A little note left on her wipe off board from big brother Devin!)

Today was a hard day for Kayleigh. She really wasn't feeling well and I think she is starting to feel a little down. I would too... tomorrow marks 1 week that she's been in a hospital!

Kayleigh did have a few surprise visitors that got a few little smiles out of her (thank you Michelle & Eddie Schapira, and big brother Devin!), but she didn't really interact a whole lot with anyone. Then around 5pm the "witching hour" started and she went into another long run of irregular heart rhythms that set all the monitors off like crazy. When they finally ended she was left with a bad headache and dizzy spells.

Tomorrow HER primary EP Cardiologist will be back and will see her first thing. She is excited as she knows that he knows her best and will be able to give us a good game plan on how to help her feel better... whatever it takes!!

Know that she is getting GREAT care here at Duke Children's!! All of the doctors, nurses, and support staff have been fantastic and very very attentive to her needs.

We continue to be grateful for the outpouring of love from our friends at River Oaks who have stepped in to take care of Chase and Paige, to love on and pray over Devin, planning meals for when we get home, and all those who have continuously prayed for our sweet girl; and our family! We simply can not come up with the words to express how we feel to each and every one of you!!!

Much love to all!

Peace...

2011-07-16T22:10:00.004-04:00

Psalm 29:11 "The Lord Blesses His people with peace...."

After a crazy night of PVCs, trigeminy, bigeminy, pauses, and whatever else the crazed out monitor was mad about... she Kayleigh is finally resting... peacefully!

Watching Prayer at Work...

2011-07-16T12:38:00.003-04:00

(Sent to me by Chip Herrera - River Oaks Community Church's youth group on a mission trip gathered to pray for Kayleigh Monday night as she was admitted to the hospital)

This week has certainly been full of ups and downs. It isn't anything I ever thought we would be going through with our own child, and I feel so helpless as a Mom when Kayleigh is having one of her spells. All I can do is sit and watch and keep her calm.... and ask for prayer.

When we left Baptist on Wednesday I was very uneasy about taking her home. Something deep down just didn't feel right, but we decided to give it a try. I prayed that night that when I woke up Thursday morning I would feel peace and and direction. Later that night, Mike posted on his facebook wall:

"So, I stepped away on my own and gave Him a piece of my mind about Kayleigh's situation. I'm pretty sure that He chewed it up and returned it based on the headache that I currently have. Just as I was starting to think about how all of my focus has been on Kayleigh and work lately and relatively none on Him, this song popped up on Pandora...Yep, I need to step back and find my center again."

Yep... Even Mike has turned to having conversations with Him about all Kayleigh has been through!

I woke up Thursday and the thought immediately crossed my mind to call and get her seen by her doctors here at Duke - so I called the clinic to get her an appointment. The receptionist said she'd call me back (this was at 8:30am). We waited and waited and waited and waited some more! While I was waiting they pulled her Baptist Hospital records... then we got the call.... "bring her to admissions in the main hospital, we are getting a bed ready for her now".

I prayed along the trip that Kayleigh would be fine until we got here so that she wasn't miserable in the car. Well, we were here just a short time when Kayleigh went into a long run of PVCs. So glad we were here where she felt safe and could stay calm through them!

Yesterday afternoon was a great day for her... she smiled a lot and even had a solid run of heart rates in the 60's! We were thrilled.... then it happened! At first it started easy and she was handling the PVCs well, but the longer they went the worse they got and by the end it was the worst run she's had. On the monitor you can tell how strong they are by a number that goes from 0 (no PVCs) on up... she was in the high 20's and low 30's. When they start to go away the number slowly drops.

About 45 minutes in I sent a prayer request out to please pray they would stop and she would feel relief. Within 5 minutes of that prayer request she went from PVCs with a high intensity to ZERO! No tapering... straight to ZERO! Talk about the power of prayer!!!

We hate watching Kayleigh go from sitting up and smiling feeling great, to crashing hard. It's the hardest thing we've done as parents and we feel pretty helpless. But it's clear that if we pray and ask for prayer that He shows us He is right here guiding the way for His will to be done because He's just cool like that!

Thank you ALL for your love, support, and ongoing prayer!

Happy 62nd Birthday, Mom!

2011-07-10T08:19:00.001-04:00

My Mother was born, a beautiful baby girl who grew up to be a beautiful woman both inside and out. I miss her so very much. I still remember every detail of her face, how she smiled as she baked in the kitchen, and watching her give her grandkids the biggest hugs ever!

While she's not here with us, we know she is celebrating her special day with the angels in Heaven.

Much love to you, Mom!

Happy Birthday!

Finally! Some Answers!!!

2011-07-05T20:05:00.008-04:00

What a day it has been! Mike, Kayleigh, and I got up at 5:30am and were out the door by 6:30am to head to Duke Medical Center for Kayleigh's Autonomic Studies to determine what's going on. We were checked in by 9am and at 10am they got her prepped. Not one... but TWO tables of needles, IV tubing, meds, and more for 1 young girl! Yikes!

She had to have an arterial line placed as well as a traditional IV. The arterial line goes directly into a major artery into the wrist and is quite painful to place and tolerate! She handled it like a champ though! Squished up her nose just a little with the numbing medicine, but that was it! I think the IV was a bit harder on her (it's up a little higher in the same arm!) because her vein started spasming on the nurse as she was placing it! In addition, she had a constant EKG going and a Transcranial Doppler done.

Then we waited... a LONG time! They needed her to become calm and peaceful so that they would know and capture her "normal". She didn't want a picture of her face... but I did get her beautiful feet!

Not having Justin with her was hard this go around! But... she listened to a video of him singing and playing the guitar and that made her smile!

Then it was time to start..... I still don't know exactly what all was done in the testing. But - I do know the results.

The first thing they told us was "after about 23 minutes she went asystolic....". My mouth hit the floor! Mike looked a bit clueless so Dr. Kanter then said "she had no pulse or blood pressure.... she was clinically dead." Thankfully, it was a very controlled environment and Dr. Kanter and his nurse Angela are FANTASTIC and were right on the ball!

When her heart started beating again though, it was way out of rhythm and took a long time and some meds to get it recovered. (If you look at the picture of the EKG strip below you can see how right before she flat lined her beat was very slow, then afterwards it was VERY erratic!)

So - what does all this mean?

Well... she has 2 different things going on, and possibly even 3.

First - She without a doubt has Neurocardiogenic Syndrome. In simple terms, this means that her autonomic nervous system is hyperactive and causing an extreme response to certain stimuli.

Second - She "more than likely" has a form of Dysautonomia called Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome. The labs he drew during the test today will give us the 100% definitive on this, but he said he expects them to come back positive based on what he saw. The only thing that he saw that indicates it may NOT be POTS is that her heart rate only went up to about 90-100 beats per minute. With POTS it typically goes up to 120+ when the body is standing.

Third - She may very well have a problem with her SA node in her heart. This is evidenced by the arrythmia she was in from the second they hooked her up to the monitors as well as the difficulty her heart had recovering from her asystolic episode. The SA node should have put her heart right back into rhythm and it needed some help.

Where do we go from here?

She has been taking Midodrine and Florinef. She is to continue those medications just as she has been taking them for the NCS and POTS. She was started on these meds a while ago with suspicion that she had some form of Dysautonomia.

They've also added something called Scopalamine. It will help calm her nausea and hopefully allow her to eat, and it can increase her heart beat and help settle her system down.

He wants to put her on a beta blocker, but can't do it at this time. If she has no improvement in 2 weeks he has another drug he can try before we start giving serious consideration to a pacemaker. It is looking like this is going to be part of her future, but he wants to be certain that he's tried every other avenue first and we are ok with that.

She is home tonight and feeling very blah, weak, and tired. But she is stable and doing ok. Mike and I are doing ok too... just very tired!

Thank you for your prayers, love, support, meals, phone calls, emails, texts, and more! We are so very blessed with a community of friends and family who love our girl so very much!!!

Where Does the Time Go?

2011-06-09T23:54:00.004-04:00

We've all heard it...
We've all been warned...
But do we really listen to it?

That bit of advice where people look at the baby in your arms and say "awwww... precious.... enjoy the time now because before you know it they are all grown up"!

This weekend our oldest child, Devin, graduates from high school. I have found myself saying over and over the last few months "I SWEAR... I JUST changed his diaper yesterday!!". That bit of advice really went in one ear and out the other apparently because I just didn't "get it" until now.

On Saturday, Devin will walk across that stage to be handed his diploma, and walk off the stage onto a new road of life. On Sunday, he turns 18 and becomes an "adult"... all in the same weekend!

I am so very proud of all he has accomplished the last 18 years! He has always been an honor student; he has ran track, cross country, and winter track and won many ribbons and awards; he has been an amazing big brother to 2 sisters and a little brother; he has held an almost full time job for the last year and a half; he has bought his first car; he has been accepted into college; he has preached (given the message) at his church youth group twice; he has led students to Christ; and he has done so much more that isn't even listed!

Devin, I cannot wait to see how God uses you in this thing called life! I know you are going to do big things, I love you with all of my heart and could not be more proud of you!!

- Love Mom

Watching God Step In...

2011-06-09T23:24:00.002-04:00

Since Kayleigh's last visit to Duke Medical Center with Endocrinology, labwork has slowly been trickling in. In true "Kayleigh" style... all of her labs have shown to be within the safe "range" of values, but on the very low side of that range. For example... her sodium range is 135-150 and hers is right at 135. These numbers coming in have pretty much ruled out what the doctors all thought Kayleigh had and now are telling us they don't believe it's adrenal insufficiency afterall.

But... this leads us to more questions.

Today, Angie Hutchins came to my house early and we headed back to Duke Med with Kayleigh where we saw the pediatric cardiologist; well, actually THREE! We started with a fellow who was very very nice and had done his homework! He not only knew Kayleigh's entire history before walking in the room, he had spoken to her endocrinologist to get even more insight! After reviewing her chart, doing her exam, looking at her labs, and talking to us - again they are saying they are on to something. He proceeded to explain a disorder called Dysautonomia. He did openly admit that if she did have Dysautonomia, it was a pretty severe case based on how it has affected her life so drastically.

Anyhow... this is where God kicked in and made things happen...

This first cardiologist told us that there are very few specialists in the United States who soley focus on Dysautonomia, and there are very few hospitals that do a true Dysautonomia battery of tests. Duke happens to be one of those very few... not only that... the doctor that specializes in it, Dr. Kanter, just happened to be there and was available for consult. A colleague of his, Dr. Carboni, was available AND free this afternoon while we were there! He wasn't available to do one of the tests until 3pm, but he was available. It was only about 1:15, so our plan was to go grab a quick bite to eat, then come back... but again... God had other plans for us! An opening was available in the ECHO lab at 2pm! Once these 2 appointments were done they set her up with a 24 hour halter monitor and we were on our way.

At the end of the day we still don't know exactly what is going on with Kayleigh and why she is so symptomatic and her vital signs are so unstable. She will have to go back to Duke soon for a full day of testing to be done on an outpatient basis to give us more insight. But we do have complete confidence in the doctors at Duke and faith that God will continue to step in and guide our path.

Blessed...

2011-05-21T20:33:00.010-04:00

I found this new blog background tonight and it seemed perfect for the way we feel...

Blessed.....

We are blessed by an amazing son who is about to graduate from high school and take the next step in this journey called life...

We are blessed that our older two kids are so very close and are always there for each other...

We are blessed with a strong willed little blonde, that I'm SURE will go far and do great things...

We are blessed by Chase's smile each and every day... reminding us that no matter what others think of us... we can be happy with who we are just the way we are...

We are blessed by friends who stop by and love on Kayleigh, and pray for her continuously...

We are just blessed...

I Never Was Any Good at Limbo!

2011-05-13T17:53:00.006-04:00

As a matter of fact... I HATED limbo! I was never any good at it! That same pattern has continued into adulthood... only this time... it's a different kind of limbo.

Kayleigh has not recovered well from her incident last month, despite the medication that she's been put on. We've been to the doctor at least once a week and on the phone with them several times a week. We are at a point where our family doctor here just can't help her anymore and isn't comfortable making any more medication changes. They were able to get her appointment at Duke Medical Center moved up by 4 weeks to May 27th, but until then.... we are in limbo and it just plain stinks!

Kayleigh is still dealing with constant headaches due to the medication trying to fight the crazy low blood pressures and heart rates. She's also dealing with on and off low oxygen saturation causing her to fatigues easily and just feel like sleeping a whole lot!

Through it all... she is trying to stay active and be as normal as possible. We did make a few changes to help her handle day to day activities. She is now "Homebound" for her Reagan High School classes. She still gets up and goes to the Career Center in the mornings, but she then comes home in the afternoons where she does the rest of her classwork. There is a teacher that is assigned to her that will spend 4 hours a week tutoring and administering tests to her - here at home. This should allow her to get rest when she needs it, but still do her work and not be penalized for missed school days (she has missed a LOT of school).

I haven't said much about him lately, but, Devin has been absolutely fantastic with whatever Kayleigh needs! He has driven her home from school early, to school late, checks on her throughout the day, and even sends me text updates on her if she's not doing so hot! He and his date are going to prom and dinner with Kayleigh and her boyfriend. Devin has even helped to arrange for Kayleigh to have a manicure/pedicure this afternoon!!! I have always known the 2 of them are close siblings... but seeing how he has supported and loved her through all this is absolutely sobering and brings tears to my eyes.

Mike and I are doing fine. Mike, as always, is a rock and never lets anything get to him. He cares and I know he worries about her, but he doesn't treat her any differently now than he did before this all started. I'm the one who says "How are you today?" and he's the one that says "Do the dishes!". LOL! Most importantly, he's the one who says "there's no sense in getting upset and worked up if there's nothing you can do about it... we take it one day at a time". (Sometimes, this man is pretty smart!)

In all seriousness.. during our wait to get to Duke, we are learning many things.

- We are learning patience... patience in waiting for God's perfect timing.
- We are learning trust... trust that she will be taken care of in His hands.
- We are learning to accept blessings... this is a hard one! But we have learned to accept the blessings of those that have brought us meals, prayed with us, and those who have gone out of their way to help us!

We are learning to just sit back and know that God is in control, we are not.

Life on the Lyons Rollercoaster

2011-04-28T19:02:00.006-04:00

On Tuesday night, April 12th, we got a phone call from a friend who was at Reagan High School telling us Kayleigh had collapsed again. A few minutes later I called another friend who was there who said this time, it just looked different, then she began to seize. That earned her her very first EMS ride to the hospital! Since then, we have been in a whirlwind that we can't seem to escape.

Kayleigh had a significantly low heart rate (as low as 38!!!) and her blood pressure was very low as well. Since then, the symptoms have continued and she has had a massive headache (probably from the seizure); is weak, fatigued, and just washed out. She is really struggling with recovery of this episode and is losing weight.

In the days after she collapsed we had an MRI done (to rule out a tumor), we've seen neurology (to rule out a seizure disorder), and a cardiologist to figure out why her heart rate and blood pressure are so low. Every avenue they've suspected has become a dead end leaving us more frustrated and having more questions and have left the doctors baffled..... until last Friday.

After Kayleigh's most recent lab work, symptoms, and a few things that have happened to her in the past; Kayleigh's doctor here in Winston feels very strongly that she has Addison's Disease. Addison's Disease is an autoimmune disease where her adrenal glands don't work properly, causing very low sodium and cortisol in her body. When you have low sodium your heart begins to slow down and not beat properly causing you to lose consciousness. Low cortisol causes your body to not recover well after any trauma or illness. It explains so much that has happened to Kayleigh over the last few years!! For the first time in a LONG time, Kayleigh smiled and felt some relief that she has an answer!!

Kayleigh has already began one of the treatments for it and they are working on adjusting the medication to help increase her sodium level and improve her heart function. In the meantime, her medical care is being transferred to Duke Medical Center in Durham where they will continue the final testing for Addison's and adjust her medications. She will have a long road ahead of her to get it all straightened out, but once it is she can live a completely normal life; and this we are thankful for!!!

Through it all... Kayleigh's boyfriend, Justin, has stood by her side firmly. I tell ya... he's just as much her advocate as we are! Just today he called me and said "why can't they do this sooner?". He has been her rock and has held her tight when she's needed it, yet backed away when he knew she needed that too.

Kayleigh's youth leader, and my dear friend Cindy has also been a huge support. Cindy spent an entire afternoon and evening with us, and even stayed with us at the hospital during one her tests. As a matter of fact... she asked more questions of the nurse than I did during Kayleigh's echocardiogram!! But for that, I am grateful because my mind was in no shape to even think about what I should be asking!!

And JUST to keep us on our toes... Kayleigh had a funny mole that felt "lumpy" under it. Her doctor felt it needed removed because of it's lacey edges, the way it felt, and my Mom's Melanoma. So, today, off we went. The whole thing took about 20 minutes once they got her numb and I got to watch it all! (Have to admit... it was pretty cool!) Anywhoo.... it ended up being a bit bigger and deeper than anticipated, but she handled it like a trooper! So far she has felt no pain, but I'm guessing that will change overnight!

Our church family at River Oaks have been praying continuously for her, our youth pastor (Chip Herrera) stayed at the hospital one night until 2am with us, meals have been delivered, friends stopped by and called to check in on her, and my boss has been MORE than understanding and allowed me to be flexible so that I can be with Kayleigh at appointments, tests, and procedures. It is with tears in my eyes that I say we are SOOOOOOO very grateful to each and every person who has walked this journey with us and for the love they have shown to Kayleigh and to our family.

So... that's Life in the Lyons Family over the last 3 weeks... we're so ready to get off the roller coaster, but we are just now climbing the hill and have a way to go before it stops!

Cancer SUCKS!

2011-04-02T19:47:00.010-04:00

Too many people in my life have fought cancer and lost... But this time, it's different and more of a reality check for me.

I met my sweet friend Heidi 5 years ago, shortly after we moved to North Carolina. A few months after we met, we flew to St. Louis together for training. She knew I was afraid of flying and we chatted a lot on the flight. That's when we realized how much in common we had....

-Heidi and I are the same age.
-Heidi and Matt have been married as long as Mike and I have.
-Heidi has 4 children like we do, the oldest being 17 for both of us.
-Heidi is also an Occupational Therapist.
-Heidi and I have worked for the same companies while in NC.
-Heidi is from Defiance County.... moved here for work like we did.

Heidi has been battling breast cancer for less than a year...

LESS THAN A YEAR!

On Wednesday of this week she came home from the hospital for one final time on hospice care until she's welcomed Home into the arms of Jesus any day.

I think that all the things we share are what makes it even harder for me. I can easily picture myself in her place right now... me having to make tough decisions about my life... my family going through what her family is going through.

Then I think about her young daughter won't have her Mom to be there for her first date... for her first prom... for her wedding. There are all those special moments that a mother and daughter share. There are also special moments with her boys that will never come for her, or them. She won't be here for graduations, birthdays, and so much more!

Then I have the piece of me that realizes a friend of mine, my age is losing her life. MY AGE!
There's just so much life left to live when you're only 39...

So...

I will hug my kids a little harder.
I will tell them I love you a little more.
I will tell them "maybe later" a little less.

Because tomorrow... it could be me.

Lessons From My Daughter...

2011-03-21T20:38:00.002-04:00

Kayleigh wrote this tonight in response to the death of Brooke Edwards, another classmate of hers who died too soon.. We, as parents, are supposed to be ministering to our children. But often, in my house, our kids minister to us through things like this...

--------

Hey guys, status updates only allow about 420 characters so I used my knowledge and common sense for a change to figure out writing a note would be easier. This won't take long but please read it, and I apologize for the capitals, I figured it would get your attention. Feel free to share this if you think it'll help people, I'm hoping it helps you.

As you all know by now, this year is not easy, and it feels like we're under a big, dark rain cloud that has no intentions of going away. Four amazing people have been lost at Reagan this year, and many more around the community without our knowledge; but our family is hurting. Loved ones have been lost, best friends, sisters, brothers, cousins. I'm not writing this to make you all more upset, but to let you know you are not alone in this storm.

Everything happens for a reason. Most of the time, that reason is unknown to us, but it always appears later, showing us what we were missing during the rain. Things happen that hurt and cause pain, make us weep and angry, but no matter how amazing or how terrible something that happens is, God has something greater planned when we trust Him, trust each other and help each other through it. Right now, something completely amazing must be planned for us, other wise we would not be under attack from the enemy, from the one who wants to tear us down. That gives me more hope, more faith in knowing that there is a light at the end of this tunnel.

You are not alone, guys, never. It may feel like you're walking alone. Maybe you're asking yourself, why, why is this happening to us? Why to the sweetest people, they don't deserve this, why are You letting this happen? But truth is, you are far from alone. Look at the faith and the love that you guys have all brought together to support each other this year, look how close and how far we have come from the beginning of the year, and even farther back. You guys are truly blessed, each and every one of you. You're blessed with families, friends, amazing talents, opportunities, lives, and memories, and you have been put here for a reason. Those who we have lost held faith in their hearts, and I have full faith that they are with God now, watching down over us, being our guardian angels when the storm never seems to end.

Keep the faith, don't lose the hope and everything because it seems as if nothing is going to get better. I promise you, it will. We are a family, and we need to stick together, support each other, pray for one another, love on everyone. Don't let any person go without knowing they are loved, because each and every one of you is loved and cherished and taken care of. Not one of you isn't good enough, for everything. We aren't perfect, but that makes us all connected. In these times, hold your memories close, God closer and surround yourself with friends and those who love you. Cherish the moments you have, because we are not promised tomorrow. Time isn't meant to be wasted holding anger to things that we couldn't have prevented. Brooke's death was an accident, nothing could have stopped it, its not Brooke's fault, or the drivers. God wanted his angel back. Nick was an accident, the ice froze moments before and no one could have stopped it. I worried for the longest time, wishing I had talked to him longer that morning, thinking if I had, he would still be here, but I realize now that nothing I had done could have prevented it. Don't blame yourselves, or God, or others. Everything that happens is for a reason.

I love you guys. I know its crazy to think one person can love people they don't even know, but truth is, no one has ever given me good enough reason to not care about them, even if I don't know you. God loves you, and He has a plan for your lives, and for these moments that are difficult and that tear us down. Keep the faith and trust in Him, and trust in each other. We can make it through if we act like a family, no matter what race, girl/boy, dorky/cool, we are all the same, we are all family and we are strong enough to make it through.

Keep the faith, hold the hope, never give up and never let go. When you see only one set of footprints in the sand, that is when He carries you.

Stay strong, guys, we are a family.

Jeremiah 29:11 "'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.'"

Psalm 23:4 "Lord though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil for you are with me."

Not Some of My Proudest Hours...

2011-03-20T21:28:00.003-04:00

I came home from an amazing youth retreat one week ago today. It was a weekend full of unity, fellowship, and fun with our amazing Ignite ROCC Youth Ministries Group. Before we left camp, we talked to the kids about how satan likes to swoop in wherever God is working in our lives. Little did I know that I needed that speech for MYSELF!

Sunday night started as always... the kids had youth group and all was well. But, Chase came home from youth with a fever of 104.3, body aches, chills, and a horrible headache. Monday morning it was confirmed..... influenza! By Wednesday it moved into his chest and he developed lovely blisters all around the inside of his mouth. So... back to the doctor we went on Thursday and sure enough... we were now looking at a possible pneumonia! Lovely!!

As if that wasn't enough, Paige came home from school on Thursday with an itchy rash all the way around her eye. Since we were already taking Kayleigh to the doctor on Friday morning, we scheduled Paige as well.

Well.... Friday morning didn't exactly go smoothly! Turns out Kayleigh apparently tested positive for MONO the last time we were there and no one called to tell us! She also had some other funky labwork AND she has a mole on her shoulder that is changing quickly and looks a tad suspicious. So... they drew EIGHT vials of blood (they wanted ELEVEN!!), scheduled a procedure to have the mole cut out, and a follow up visit to go over all the labwork they did on the blood they sucked out of her.

Paige.... well sure enough it was another fungal infection, only this time they can't give her cream because of the eye. Instead she gets to take some yummy stuff called Grisefulvin that she has to choke down every night!

After all this I finally get Paige and Kayleigh to school and I head to work, getting there around 11am. At 12:10pm I get a call from Devin... he was in a car accident on Silas Creek Parkway! Thankfully he's ok... but his new Isuzu Rodeo is crunched up a bit in the back! Ughh!

By this point I was ridiculously frustrated and stressed out and really didn't even stop to pray about any of it... not proud of that, but it's the truth. Instead, the more I thought about it the more frustrated I became and when I got home I was just snippy. My best friend stopped by to surprise me with Haagen Daas, Sprite & Spiced Rum, Tulips, and a few hours of friendship... but as soon as she left I wallowed up in my pity party again.

But Saturday morning I was smacked upside the head with what I should have been thankful for... only not in a good way....

Another young Reagan High School student, Brooke Edwards, was killed late Friday night. In my sadness for Brooke's death is when I finally stepped out of my pity party and realized how blessed I truly am. Sure... I had a bad week, but... We have insurance to pay for doctors visits, we have the money to pay for all the prescriptions and medications, we have car insurance to cover Devin's car, and we still HAVE Devin!

... But the Edward's family... they don't have their Brooke.

So, my verse from this point forward is from Psalms 16:8: "I have set the Lord always before me. Because he is at my right hand, I will not be shakin." When I feel like satan is swooping in on me I will recite this verse and remember first and foremost that He is with me always and second, I am blessed!

Keeping a Holy Lent

2011-03-07T21:13:00.003-05:00

We were Catholic for many years, and although we are no longer practicing Catholic and we are members at River Oaks Community Church, there are some beliefs of our Catholic background that still mean a lot to us. One of those beliefs is the idea of giving up something for Lent to glorify and Honor a God who gave up His LIFE for us!

We talk to the kids each year about why we do this, and we all decide on something that we can "give up". We also encourage them to do the same thing. One year I gave up pop (yeah, that didn't work out so well!), Mike has given up cursing (a few time), and Kayleigh even tried giving up MEAT one year! But in all of our choices - they seemed to be selfish choices to make US feel better about ourselves and really didn't do much to put the spotlight on the One who gave His life for us!

Today, I was reminded of an email from a friend last year after reading a Facebook status of a student. The email guided us to focus on ways to give up actions and to glorify Him more. It was perfect for us last year and I want to share it with anyone who is willing to read...

Give up complaining - Focus on gratitude

Philippians 2:14&15 – Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure…

1 Thessalonians 5:18 – Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Jesus Christ.

Give up bitterness - Turn to forgiveness

Ephesians 4:31 – Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice.

Ephesians 4:32 – Be kind and compassionate to one another forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

Give up worry - Trust in God

Matthew 6:25 – “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life… who by worrying can add a single hour to his life?”

Matthew 6:33 – But seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.

Give up discouragement - Be full of hope

Deuteronomy 31:8 – The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you: he will never leave you or forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.

Isaiah 40:31 – But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.

Give up hatred - Return good for evil

1 John 2:9 – Anyone who claims to be in the light but hates his brother is still in the darkness.

Luke 6:27 – “But I tell you who hear me; Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you.”

Give up anger - Be more patient

Matthew 5:22 – But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment.

Proverbs 15:18 – A hot tempered man stirs up dissension, but a patient man calms a quarrel.

Give up gossiping - Control your tongue

Psalm 34:13 – Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking lies.

Proverbs 21:23 – He who guards his mouth and his tongue keeps himself from calamity.

I hope that this helps you during this Lent and Easter season to remember why we celebrate Easter, how much our God loves us, and ways that we can glorify and honor Him!

CINCINNATI, BABY!!!

2011-02-21T18:37:00.006-05:00

We love this city and we had a great time
with Mike's family this past weekend...

Started at the Newport Aquarium on Saturday morning....

Lunch at Skyline was a must...
and as you can see, Michael enjoyed it!

An afternoon of swimming in the pool...

A little bit of relaxation...

An evening shot for the birthday boy at Rafferty's!

Uno on the bathroom floor at the hotel for the kids!

Gifts to help with the "aging"process!

And fun with Devin at Sunday morning breakfast...

Made for a great weekend with the Lyons Family!

The Divine Valentine

2011-02-14T16:50:00.003-05:00

A Valentine may play a love song for you, but God sings you the sweetest love song in the universe.

The Lord your God…will rejoice over you with gladness, He will keep you quiet with his love, He will rejoice over you with singing. (Zephaniah 3:17)

A Valentine may give you flowers, but God sent you the most beautiful rose of all, Jesus.

I am the rose of Sharon, and the lily of the valleys. (Songs of Solomon 2:1)

A Valentine may take you out to dinner, but God has invited you to the most amazing feast ever given.

Blessed are those who are called to the marriage supper of the Lamb! (Revelation 19:9)

A Valentine may bring you chocolate, but God provides you with something even
sweeter, His Word.

How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth! (Psalm 119:103)

A Valentine may be far away, but God is always with you.

I am with you always. (Matthew 28:20)

A Valentine may give you something, but God has given you everything.

God gives us richly all things to enjoy. (1 Timothy 6:17)

A Valentine may love you for a lifetime, but God loved you beore you were born
and will love you for all eternity!

Yes, I have loved you with an everlasting love…with loving kindness I have drawn you. (Jeremiah 31:3)

I Love My Daddy!!

2011-02-11T06:00:00.000-05:00

Today is my Daddy's birthday and I want everyone to know:

I LOVE MY DADDY!!!!

What Our Husbands REALLY Want...

2011-02-10T21:42:00.004-05:00

I have been cyber friends with Jen Murray from 4tunate for a few years. First... we're both from Indiana and we Hoosiers stick together! But, I really started to lean on advice from Jen a few years back when my dear friend Marli was going through some issues with getting pregnant and working through the IVF process. Jen was a huge source of strength for Marli and gave me direction on how to love and support Marli... and now Marli has her Long Awaited Miracle!!

Jen often posts things on her blog that speak directly to me!! I don't know HOW she does it... but she does! And this week was no different. As many of us are preparing for Valentine's Day and I hear the mumbling of "what do I get him..., I am sharing parts of her blog post with her permission. I have also linked her blog above in bold italics if you'd like to read it in it's entirety.

_____

Valentine gifts for guys always seem to come up short.

Cheesy. Trinkety. Hollow.

I’m not knocking your heart key chain, or your photo mug. If he’s in to that kind of thing, then by all means! However, I bet you that there’s something deeper and lasting that he wants from you…

Have you thought about what your husband really wants while you search through the aisles of a department store or peruse the candy aisle?

He wants you to trust him. Do you believe in his pursuits? Do you trust him with parenting your children? Are you still depending on him “to have and to hold” or are you trying to tackle it yourself because “you know best”?

Psalm 31:24 “Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the LORD.”

He wants you to respect him. Do you use your words to uplift him and encourage or do they tear down? How powerful our words and attitudes can be in belittling our mate’s character!

Ephesians 4:29 “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”

He wants you to admire him. What first drew you to your husband? Do you still allow yourself to be swooned by him? Is he confident in your affection and loyalty for him? Have you told him recently what makes him attractive to you?

Ephesians 4:2 “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.”

He wants you to be confident in your beauty. Do you constantly point out your imperfections? Do you find yourself changing his compliments into a self-critique? Are you allowing the signs of gravity, the battle scars of bearing children, the comparison struggle to steal joy from your relationship?

Song of Solomon 7:6 “How beautiful you are and how pleasing, my love, with your delights!”

_____

There are definitely two things listed that I struggle with that I am certain my husband would appreciate.

(Well, Okay... maybe 3... being confident in my own beauty is a toughy... but it's getting a little better as I'm losing weight and watching sizes drop!)

Michael, I love you with all of my heart and promise to you to trust you more with our family and respect you more by loving and encouraging you as you come up on an uncertainty with your job. You are just as handsome and loving as you were the day I met you and I look forward to many more holidays (including the Hallmark holidays) with you!

Our Conflicting Views on Prayer...

2011-02-07T09:56:00.005-05:00

This one is kind of personal... don't usually post about things that are personal, but it's been on my heart to post this for a while now.

Mike was faced with giving a prayer request at small group last week. Something he's not too comfortable with because of events that have taken place over the course of our marriage that give him "different" views that most have.

So, let's start from the beginning..... (might wanna grab some coffee because this could take a while!)

Michael and I were married November 2nd, 1991
In the summer of 1992 we had lost our first baby
Devin was born emergency c-section in distress on June 12, 1993
Kayleigh came quickly after on July 26, 1994, 7 weeks early
We had the normal marriage struggles up and down that were intensified with that of a premature baby who was always on breathing treatments and financial chaos
Mike lost his job in 1996... that was a huge hit!
Decided then to go to college as a married couple with 2 young children... yeah... no stress there!
In 1997 we lost another baby...
Early 1998 we found out we were expecting again, but later in the pregnancy we learned there were complications... big ones!
August 14, 1998 Chase was born with some problems with one of his kidneys being quite enlarged
Oh... and let's not forget the massive amounts of blood loss and near death experience I had giving birth to Chase
In the spring of 1999 Chase had surgery to have his renal problems corrected
Mike started having seizures in 1998 that progressively got worse and more frequent over the next 2 years
Winter of 2000 we unexpectedly found out we were expecting TWINS!
April 3, 2000 our twins became angels with our two other babies that were lost
Shortly thereafter it was "confirmed" I would not be able to get pregnant again due to significant scar tissue in the uterus... honestly... this was a sigh of relief!
Spring/Summer of 2000 my Mom was diagnosed with Melanoma
We moved home in 2001 to be there for her and help Dad with her appointments an care
Oh... Mike's seizures continued, kids were sick with one thing or another, multiple sets of tubes in ears, etc..... you know... more stress on us and our marriage
Spring of 2002... better sit down.... PREGNANT!!!
The next several months consisted of more seizures from Mike, Mom's health declining, and my pregnancy being very rocky
By the early fall of 2002 I was on strict bedrest, Mom was on daily radiation, Dad wasn't sleeping, Mike was still seizing...
October of 2002... Mom's cancer was officially terminal and there was nothing more that could be done
November 7, 2002 Paige was born 9 weeks prematurely, spending the next several weeks in the hospital
December 2002 Mom's cancer was in her brain and we could see her slipping away
April 13, 2003 we said goodbye to Mom one final time
By spring of 2003 Dad had his first heart attack
June of 2003 Dad was rushed to IU Med Center with an aneurysm
Summer was consumed with Dad's health and Paige's health
September of 2003 one of Mike's best friends was shot and killed
Winter of 2003 into 2004 Paige continued to have terrible health and Chase began to lose weight
Spring of 2004 Chase became lethargic and almost unresponsive at times
May of 2004 our pediatrician diagnosed him for the first time with an auto-immune heart condition and he was admitted to the Children's Hospital CICU.
School year of 2005 we started noticing Chase was a bit "different" than the other kids
Spring of 2005 Kayleigh collapsed at school with a blood sugar of less than 40!!
Fall of 2006 Devin had his first asthma attack while running a cross country race
Through all this, illness continued, Dad's health was up and down, Mike and I were always stressed out!
Spring of 2006 we moved to North Carolina
Summer of 2006 Mike was involved in an accident at work where he lost the hearing in his left ear
Fall of 2006 Chase was diagnosed with Mild Developmental Delay with Autistm Tendencies.... even though we suspected this, it was a huge hit to Mommy!!
Winter of 2006... Dad left my house in NC the day after Christmas and had a heart attack half way home, while driving in the middle of Kentucky!
2007 3 of the 4 kids had surgery to have tonsils removed, adenoids, removed, and tubes put in AGAIN!
Spring of 2007 Kayleigh was diagnosed with LABRYNTHITIS!! Never heard of it? Yeah... us either and we still aren't sure! LOL!
Summer 2007 Devin belly flopped into the pool and broke a rib
Fall of 2007 Mike had shoulder surgery to repair bicep tears, RTC tears, labral tears, AND bone spurs!!! LONG RECOVERY!!

I could keep going... but I think you get the point and I'm tired of writing it all out! Making me get all down again!

Anyhow, In the 20 years we've been married, suffice it to say that we have endured more than our fair share of stress, heartache, tragedy, illness, and more. Now, I'm not saying there weren't happy times in there. Just seems like there were way more lows than highs!

For me, during all those things listed above.I prayed. I will cry out to the Lord and sometimes yell "WHY?!?.... This is not fair, Lord!". Other times I thank Him. Sounds crazy, I know. But through it all Mike and I always support each other and we have always had good doctors to care for the kids, supportive friends, loving parents, and more. In James, we are told to "Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance." and persevere I have done!

For Mike, it's not so easy. He has faith, and knows that the Lord is in control of all, but prayer doesn't come so easy for him. In his mind, what's going to happen cannot be changed in prayer because the Lord knows and keeps His plan. If we pray for something to be changed, it isn't going to happen if it's not the Lord's will. For him, if he prays about something it's like saying "Lord, I know you have Your will.. but here is MY will and I want you to change yours to match mine." I can certainly see his point, but I don't necessarily agree with it.

For me, I've learned to rely on the love that the Lord has for us and I've really began to trust that He will see us through anything and everything. I don't get stressed out as easily about things like I used to. I just pray for peace, guidance, strength, and for the Lord to cover our needs during times of trial.

Think about it this way.... when you get upset about something or something happens like a death, who do you turn to? Many will call up a friend for support. Just someone who will listen to our concerns, worries, and wipe our tears. We don't necessarily say to that friend or request of that friend to change the outcome or to make it different. They are there to lean on.

Guess what... That's what GOD is there for too! Call on Him! Cry out to Him that you are angry, upset, weary, tired... or cry out to Him when you are THANKFUL in the very same manner. Stay in constant communication with Him and He will give you peace, comfort, and strength to get through anything!

Is Mike right? In my opinion... sort of. We cannot change God's will. But what we can do is pray for his comfort and trust that His will is part of a bigger and better plan that He has for us and for our lives.

To my dear husband, that I love very very much... when you pray to "let go, and let God", the weight is lifted off YOUR shoulders and HE takes it on for because He loves you JUST THAT MUCH!

Being Intentional...

2011-02-03T22:18:00.003-05:00

Our youth pastor, Chip Herrera, has been doing a series on Suffering and the Sovereignty of God after the death of student, Nick Doub. It's been a good series that has truly helped the kids work through their loss. This past Sunday, Chip did a Q&A Panel where the kids were able to text questions and they'd get answers, or guidance with Biblical principles and life stories of the panel members. Of course, the answers including turning to their Bibles and prayer for ultimate guidance. One of the follow up questions to that was something along the lines of "How do we find time for the Bible and prayer in our already so very busy lives?".

The panel's answer.... Be intentional!

Be intentional. Seems so simple, but yet can be so complicated. After all... in our crazy technology driven, car pooling, always working, and let's not forget cooking cleaning and parenting lives... where is time for intentional? I try hard to be intentional every night before bed... but I'll be honest... after a long tiring day where I'm finally crawling into bed after 11pm I find it hard to stay up and spend time in the Word for a while.

How wrong is that though!?! Say it out loud to Jesus and see what it sounds like....

"Sorry, Lord. I am just so tired my eyes won't stay open so I'm not opening Your book tonight, and I'd just fall asleep in the middle of prayer time anyway."

Yikes! But, if I'm being honest with myself that's what I've done on nights like that and after saying it out loud to Jesus makes me just want to cringe and smack myself right upside the head! Yep... time for that to change!

There are other areas in my life that need to be intentional as well....

How about marriage?
Children?
And (here's a biggie)... being intentional with MYSELF for time all alone!

So... I've decided to really focus on these things that I need to make priority... be intentional with making sure that I focus on them more often!

Being Intentional with the Lord:

Spending time in prayer or devotion while I'm driving. I want to get some devotions on DVD and listen to them to and from work.
Being intentional reading from my Bible. I've found a One Year Bible Online tracker to print and use and have already started this week.
Being intentional in attending my Small Group each and every week and not letting anything get in my way!!!!

Being Intentional with Marriage:

Doing a better job of weekly date night!!! How crazy is it that we have access to free movies at the theater whenever we want and we just don't take advantage of it?!?
Being intentional on the evenings Michael is home in turning OFF the laptop and sitting with him watching TV, games, or whatever.

Being Intentional with the Kids:

We rarely get 1 on 1 time with the kids and they deserve that from us. We need to work on a schedule or calendar on spending 1 on 1 time with each of the kids 1 time a month. Maybe each week is a different child... but make it happen! (Again... duhhhh... movie theater is free!)
Having a family meal at LEAST once a week where EVERYONE is at the table! We don't do this often, even when we are all home. But when we do, it always is so much fun! We need to make it happen more often!

and Being Intentional with Myself:

Working out at least 3 times a week while listening to music (if ya didn't know... music is great for calming the nerves!)
Allowing myself 30 minutes of uninterrupted ME time each and every day.

I'm sure there are more things that I need to address... but if I can accomplish these things in this order, I know that my crazy technology driven, car pooling, always working, cooking, cleaning, and parenting life may just be a bit less hectic!

Crazy Coupon Chicks!

2011-01-21T21:34:00.003-05:00

The best financial lesson I learned from my Mom was couponing! Yep... she was that lady who had the great big box all organized and labeled browsing up and down every aisle spending hours getting every last deal she could each and every week! She'd even profile the cashiers to make sure she got the one that was fast and was polite so that she didn't hold up the line for too long! She always said the grouchy cashiers would intentionally go slow hoping she'd just leave! Remember... back then they had to manually enter prices, coupons, sales, etc.! It always amazed me... watching her take totals that started at $50-$75 (again... this was YEARS ago when things were cheaper!) down to just a few dollars! Way cool in my book!

Over the years I have had periods of time where I was very diligent at couponing, and other times where I was just too lazy. But all it takes is a month or two shopping for my clan of 6 and spending upwards of $125 to $150 a week for me to snap my brain back into shape and say "yo... chick-a-dee... get those coupons out again!" and save yourself some money! When I do use my coupons, I get so excited about what I save that I often will post about it on Facebook or tell my friends. Which then leads to either (a) other friends telling me how much they saved, or (b) friends saying "you have GOT to teach me!".

So.... I decided to post on Facebook (my #1 addiction right now) to see if anyone was interested in a coupon group. The response I got was crazy! 10 people in the first 10 minutes of the post! So, we're giving it a shot and are starting the "Crazy Coupon Chicks" group! I'm so excited! We can share coupons between us, share tips and tricks of the game, teach the newbies, and help each other save some money!

Again... just way cool!

Thanks Mom!

My Heart Hurts...

2011-01-12T18:42:00.003-05:00

Devin and Kayleigh's friend, Nicholas Doub, is now resting in the arms of his Lord and Savior.

On Sunday night, Nick's friends held a candle-light vigil at Reagan High School around their spirit rock. It was absolutely touching! HUNDREDS of people came as a few students led in prayer and music. Teachers were there, parents were there, students from other schools and community members were there. The way that everyone came together was like nothing I've ever seen before and left me just looking around with tears in my eyes!

Kayleigh was asked to share her discussion with Nick that she had the morning of the accident. All day Sunday, she said there was no way she could do it... she just knew she'd cry as soon as she began to speak. At youth Sunday afternoon, a leader who is very near and dear to our family (Doug Todd) spoke with her, and prayed with her. Even when we left there, she wasn't sure she could go through with it.

Well.... with the grace that she always carries, she took the microphone and DID it! She spoke of how happy Nick was that morning. How he thought that Thursday was going to be a GREAT day! She also talked about how he always made her laugh and how happy he always was. Other students also talked about his laughter, and how Nick was just Nick... he never let anyone or anything get him down.

Since news came of his passing, Kayleigh has been grieving in a way like I've never seen her grieve. I'm sure the anniversary of her good friend McKana's death being only weeks away only adds to her pain. It hurts my so much as a parent to see her hurting. It makes it worse knowing that I can't take that hurt away. She has to process through it on her own, and trust that Nick's life had a huge purpose, as did McKana's, and their work here was done, the Lord has called them home.

As a parent, my heart hurts even more. I look at my kids and think to myself... "that could could have been MY child so easily!". I cannot imagine the pain that Mr. and Mrs. Doub are feeling and I hurt for them!

Tomorrow will be a very hard day for the Doub family, the Reagan Raider family, and the community. But I think I can say for certain that instead of being a funeral... with the way that Nick laughed and loved... tomorrow will truly be a celebration of life! A life that was full of happiness, joy, laughter, and fun!

We should all learn from Nick....

Tell EVERYONE you love them!
Never walk away angry!
Live life to the fullest!
and always... Laugh a little more!

"In Everything, Give Thanks"

2011-01-07T19:33:00.004-05:00

The bible tells us in Thessalonians 5:18 "In everything, give thanks...". When it comes down to it, it is VERY hard to do and many of us, instead of giving thanks, question His will during times of trial and hardship. I know that even I struggle with that.

This week, the students at Regan High School experienced a tragic accident. A very well loved classmate, Nicholas Doub, hit a patch of black ice Thursday morning (no he wasn't speeding and yes he was wearing a seatbelt). His vehicle flipped over an embankment a few times before finally hitting a tree. He was flown to WFUBMC and is still tonight, listed in critical condition with a very poor prognosis.

Both of my kids, Devin and Kayleigh, know Nick well. Kayleigh knows him very well... they talk daily and see each other all the time. Before the accident yesterday, before they even left home for school, Kayleigh and Nick were messaging back and forth. The last message Kayleigh received was "Gotta go.... see you at school"... only Nick never made it to school.

As you can imagine, Kayleigh is a mess! I have sat with her, hugged her, and prayed with her. But it is tough to parent through hurt like this. I know that the strength I have had to hold back tears when I'm with her don't come from me alone, they come from the Lord!

While the last 24 hours have brought questions, hurt, heartache, worry, and fear... we are able to give thanks. We give thanks for the laughter and love that Nick has given to so many people! We give thanks for the number of people who have rallied in prayer for one student who so desperately needs a miracle.

Luke Brigman (another close friend of Kayleigh's that we know well) organized this prayer vigil, called local news stations, and gathered as many people as he could. At 4pm today, what he thought would be just a few ended up being over 300... say that again out loud... OVER THREE HUNDRED... over 300 students, faculty, friends, and parents gathered around the flag pole at Reagan High School praying for an hour! Praying for Nick, his parents, his family, his friends..... praying that the Lord's Will would be done and that the Lord would provide strength and comfort to all those lives that Nick has touched.

For this... we give thanks and praise!

MyFox8 News is one of the news stations that covered the story, "School Rallies in Support of Student"... they did an amazing job, and to watch it just is awesome! When I watched it, I couldn't hold back the tears! I dare you to get through it and not be touched!

In Matthew 18:20 we are assured "For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.". When 300 plus are gathered in one place, all in prayer... I am CERTAIN that He heard those cries for help!

While it is certainly hard to understand His will and to know what His ending will be for Nick during this uncertain time, we are certain that we can trust in Him to carry us all through!

Sweet Jesus... be strong enough for all of those hurting during this tragedy!

One Happy Girl!

2011-01-05T18:38:00.002-05:00

Paige finally got her wish! We let her take her Christmas money and get her ears pierced (much to Daddy's dismay)! Seemed like a good time since Kayleigh was having her 2nd ear piercing done. Paige was able to watch Kayleigh do it, then was brave enough to do it too! She's looking forward to Valentine's Day when she gets to take the birthstones out and put the fun earrings in!

Holiday 2010 Memories

2011-01-02T11:02:00.006-05:00

We made great memories with our family and great friends this holiday season!

We started in November with my oldest and dearest friend, Jenni, and her family for a fabulous Thanksgiving with lots of laughs with the kids, and adults!

Our annual Christmas dinner was to Arigatos where they not only LOVED the food and they had a great time watching the Hibachi cook's tricks. Paige even asked if we could go back EVERY year!

Christmas Eve this year was extra special... Kayleigh sang and Paige was an Angel in our church's Christmas Program.

Christmas morning we shared more laughs with the kids than we have in a long time. Devin enjoyed being able to give to his siblings and NAILED it with Kayleigh's fedora hat!

And we even had a BIG surprise gift for Chase that shocked them all!

One of the images from Christmas that I will not forget, is Paige reading her book on the rocker. All the new toys she got, and she sat peacefully for over an hour just reading... simply sweet!

A few days later, another dear friend and her family came to visit for the New Year celebration! Had a great time just lounging around the house together.

I especially enjoy Neal just "playing around" with the guitar... so relaxing to listen to!

The weather was great the first few days, so the kids were able to play outside!

New Year's Eve was started with a great pancake breakfast, compliments of Michael!

In the afternoon we all got out of the house for an afternoon of bowling! Wicked fun, lots of laughs!! Especially with king of the bowling alley, Devin, around!

New Year's Eve night we spent at the house playing some games with the kids. We had a blast watching the little girls play Just Dance... Even Dawnya and I got in on the action. (Sorry... no photo of us though! LOL!)

For everyone who made the Holidays this year so special and memorable, Mike and I thank you from the bottom of our hearts!

The Start of a New Year

2010-12-27T20:20:00.002-05:00

As 2010 draws to a close, I've been thinking back over all the things we have gone through this year... both good and bad. Everything from broken bones, to illnesses, to the loss of a grandparent... to Devin becoming a senior and Kayleigh getting her permit. What a year it has been!

In 2008 I decided to start a New Year's ReVolution each year. It started when an elder at our church talked about the New Year being a Revolution! Instead of making selfish resolutions where it's all about me.... it should be about God and how we should really bring Him into our daily lives even more than we do now.

I started these ReVolutions with some baby steps... pray more, join a small group, and give up my fears and anxieties to Him. I did pretty good that first year, but still had work to do... especially on the prayer part. As much as I wanted to bring prayer into our daily family life, my anxieties always let me down. Sure, I pray every night, but still wasn't praying WITH my family as often as I could have. When I looked back on the list of ReVolutions, I decided to keep working on these things in 2010 and REALLY make them a priority.

So... here's how it went...

1) I will let go of trying to control my life and let Him take the reigns. When He is in control all comes together as a part of His perfect plan.

I have been blessed beyond measure in taking risks to follow where He has guided me! I really felt the push to take a new job with another company. This was way out of my comfort zone... as it was going to a true skilled nursing facility where many of the residents do not have insurance. I am finding that I am constantly looking for ways to help them within their means and pray for patients who have no one and nothing every night.

Even bigger... one night while at a parents youth meeting I stepped WAY out of my box and signed up to be a youth leader! Each week, spending time with these kids gets easier and easier and I'm loving being a part of their lives! Like I said... blessed beyond measure!

2) I will let go of worry. If you know me I am bad about this! I will have faith that He will provide in times of need.

I have really made this a part of my life and my outlook on things is sooooo much better! When illnesses, financial matters, or career choices popped up; I tried hard to step back and let Him guide me and He has always provided when I've truly followed His will.

3) I will bring Him into our home on a daily basis. In our every day life, this often gets pushed aside. Coming home late from practices and work we often rush through dinner and scurry the kids off to bed... not taking the time for proper prayers of thanks and praise at mealtimes and bedtimes.

This is the one area that I have really focused on this year. I don't know that we can ever pray ENOUGH... but, in the latter half of the year especially, we have began praying at dinner when we are all together, at Holiday times, and I have even started praying more often at bedtime with the kids or when they are having a tough day. I do wish I could calm my anxieties over praying with Michael and will make an effort this year to spend time with him in prayer... I think it's something that we both need.

4) I will step out of my comfort zone and participate in a small group this year. My lack of knowledge of the Bible has always shied me away from joining a small group. I'm always afraid of sounding "stupid" for asking questions or asking for explanation. This is a huge thing for me, but what a better way to come closer to Jesus!

Well - last year I posted this was one goal that I accomplished. But, sadly, in May our small group "disbanded". The leading couple was expecting a baby and they felt they needed to "feed" their own spiritual needs for a while. I miss our weekly time together so very much!

So, as the New Year approaches, here's my ReVolutions for 2011

1) I will continue to improve the prayer time for our family, both at mealtimes, bedtimes, in times of need, and in times of praise. Similarly, I will encourage Michael to do the same and I will begin to pray with him.

2) I will lead a youth small group and not take the passenger seat in order to help guide these kids in a life of love that comes with living for Jesus.

3) I will find and participate in another small group in order to build upon my faith and love of the Lord so that I can share with others the joy that comes from Him.

I pray you all have a Happy New Year and that 2011 is full of love, laughter, and many blessings!!

Photoshoot With 4 Kids!

2010-12-26T13:36:00.004-05:00

and....

FINALLY!!! A Good One!

Sisters in the Snow!

2010-12-26T12:11:00.003-05:00

A North Carolina White Christmas!

2010-12-26T12:07:00.002-05:00

Merry Christmas Mom

2010-12-25T17:53:00.002-05:00

Dear Mom,

So hard to believe that this is our 8th Christmas without you, it seems it was just yesterday that we traveled through a horrible snowstorm (illegally!) to spend that last Christmas by your side. Didn't matter what it took, Mike and I were determined to make it to your house, and that we did! I will forever hold that day in my heart, watching you smile at the grandkids and take it all in; as we tried to hold back tears knowing it was your last.

This year was another crazy year here... broken bones, hospitalizations, sick kids, new jobs, new house, and more. Yet, as busy as we get, we still remember you daily and often talk of you to the kids. When we were home in October we shared many pictures and memories with the kids and told many stories from when we were growing up.

This Christmas has been a bit different for us. It's the first Christmas in many years that we have really focused on the birth of Jesus, and His role at Christmas and in our every day lives. It has made it so much more from the heart! Paige and Kayleigh participated in our church's Christmas program honoring his birth, and this morning, Paige sat on my lap as we read The Story of Jesus. I can only imagine how you celebrated this year, at His side for His big birthday party!

Last year I started something new with the kids, in honor of you and something you did for us each and every year. Each of the kids got a Christmas coloring book and crayons and the tag said From Your Angel Grandma in Heaven. I never ever want a Christmas to go by where we all don't remember how much we enjoyed Christmas with you and the little things you did.

I miss you more than I could ever put into words. What I wouldn't give for one more Christmas right here by your side, to see you smile taking in the joy and laughter of all the kids! But, I know I have many more Christmas's by your side when we are reunited in Heaven someday.

Until then, we'll hang on to every last memory of you and continue to tell the kids how special you were and still are!

Love always,

Michelle

If Mary and Joseph Had Facebook...

2010-12-18T11:35:00.006-05:00

"How Do You Have Such Great Kids?"

2010-12-12T08:06:00.006-05:00

We hear all kinds of questions and comments about Devin and Kayleigh, and how they are such respectful, Jesus loving, ministering teenagers!

"You've got such great kids."
"Your kids are so polite and love Jesus and the church."
"Your kids are blessed in ministry."
"Tell me, how did you do it so that I can raise kids like that?"

Deuteronomy 6:5-7 says "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when lie down and when you get up.

I wish I could sit here and tell you that this verse is how we raised our kids... but it's not. Truth be told, it was ALL God's doing and none of our own earthly doing.

Mike and I have a long history in our faith, and I know there were many times where we (yes, I say WE) didn't impress upon them a great view of the church because of the way we were each brought up.

Mike was raised in the Catholic church from birth through marriage.... the whole 9 yards. He was an alter boy, served mass, went to Catholic school, and even after high school was a lector in the church. He never agreed with all the Catholic traditions, but it's all he knew. He knew Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John like the back of his hand.

Me, well I wasn't raised in church at all. I'm pretty sure we had a Bible in the house, but I would be hard pressed to tell you if I ever opened it, or if my parents ever opened it. During the summers my Mom would send us kids up the block to both the Catholic church and the Presbyterian church for their Summer Bible School, and occasionally on Christmas we would go to a Catholic church in Defiance for Christmas Mass. But that was the only exposure I had to a church. I never knew any of the Bible stories or memorized any verses.

When we were married, we were married in the Catholic church (Mike's), and shortly after I joined the church. We attended pretty regularly through the time Kayleigh was born, but admittedly, we were "Sunday church go-ers" and that was about it. I always knew I needed something more than that, but Mike wasn't interested and I never pushed the issue. When we moved it Indiana University, we went to church less and less. We did have Chase baptized after he was born, but after his baptism we more or less stopped going all together even though I still felt a desire to be SOMEWHERE. I just didn't know where.

After we moved back home, we made a trip to our best friends (Dawnya and Neal Taylor-Schroeder) and attended church with them one Sunday during Easter season. On the way home one of the kids (I can't remember which one) asked us in the car what Easter was? What Lent was? Why do we celebrate it? Then the biggie... "Christmas was Jesus' BIRTHDAY????" with amazement! Devin was about 9, Kayleigh about 8, Chase was about 4, and Paige was a baby.

Mike and I started talking and again realized that we NEEDED to get these kids some exposure to a church whether he wanted to be there or not. This is how we found Sonrise at Aboite in Fort Wayne. It had a great young youth group and children's program and the music was more contemporary - which the kids loved and so did I. Still though, I think we were just the "Sunday go-ers", and we were the "Sunday go-ers that went just for their kids sake". Yikes!

In 2006 we moved to North Carolina and for the first year, again, we didn't attend church anywhere. Every once in a while one of the kids would ask about a church, but we never moved on it. Then, in early 2007 Mike's rock, his Grandpa Molitor, died. It hit him HARD! While we were sitting in the Catholic church we got married in, saying goodbye to Grandpa, Mike started crying. Something about sitting in that church he grew up in opened his eyes again.

When we came home, the next Sunday, we attended Holy Family Catholic Church here in Winston-Salem. Without talking much about it, we quickly enrolled the kids in CCD classes to get them "caught up" with the sacraments they had missed (communion, confirmation, etc.) and really didn't ask their input. Mother's Day 2007 Paige was Baptized, and in the spring of 2008 Kayleigh and Chase went through First Communion. We were going MOST Sundays, but we were dragging the kids each and every week. ESPECIALLY Devin!

During this time at Holy Family, Devin was NOT happy with us! He loved Sonrise, but certainly was not loving the Catholic church. Each week was a struggle and he often made reference to not being sure what he even believed in. Kayleigh had said a few times that she was doing it "For Daddy". And honestly, I don't know that Chase really knew why he was going through the classes or even what it meant to celebrate his First Communion (Yeah.... not a real great parenting moment I tell ya!). We really didn't think much about the kids, we were happy because we were back in our "home" church, and our families were happy as well.

Shortly after receiving their sacraments, we were eating dinner one evening and for the first time, we openly asked the kids what they thought. Boy were they honest... they said they felt out of place, did it for us, Devin said he hated church and didn't want to go at all. Ouch! Mike through on the table "Where WOULD you go if you could choose?" and they all FOUR said at almost the same time "River Oaks" because they had friends there that really loved it.

After talking about it privately, we realized it was important to get our kids involved in church and it didn't matter if it was Catholic, Presbyterian, Lutheran, Methodist, etc. What was important was that our kids have a church base where they would know "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son" to die on the cross for OUR sons because he loved us THAT much! Where we took them to hear this, learn of this, and let this penetrate their hearts didn't really matter to us! We had already gone HOW many years more or less keeping this Great Truth from them!

The next Sunday, we went to River Oaks Community Church and from then on our lives were changed. Devin and Kayleigh QUICKLY became involved in the youth group. In October of 2008 they went on their first youth retreat and Devin came home truly changed and a huge part of that change was Doug Todd, as well as other youth leaders. All of whom refused to just give up on Devin. As I waited for them to get off the bus, my heart was pounding. Kayleigh came first - running to me saying "Mom... Devin cried and gave a TESTIMONY!". When I saw Devin, I immediately saw the difference in him... and he hugged me with tears in his eyes. He didn't have to say a word, I knew that he met Jesus that weekend in his heart!

Even since that weekend, to be honest, we still don't pray at home like we should. Sure, if we're all here for a family meal we will pray at the table. When one of the kids has a rough day I will pray with them at bedtime. But we still aren't a family that "prays together" consistently, and Mike and I have still have a LOT of work to do in our faith! But, we are working on it and honestly, we are at a point where we are soaking it all in from our KIDS!

Since attending River Oaks, Devin and Kayleigh have became so involved with the youth, ministering to kids, attending retreats and mission trips, local missions, even speaking on Youth Sundays. None of it was anything Mike and I have done... we haven't raised our family in a Godly home the way the Bible intends. I go back and read verses like Proverbs 22:6 that says "Start children off the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it." and I think to myself... I didn't do that! Who did? Because these kids have a faith like none other and even through the toughest of times, they aren't turning from the Lord.

So when someone asks me for advice on how to raise kids like we have, how to raise Godly teenagers who aren't afraid of talking to strangers about Jesus, I will simply say "It was ALL God! It was certainly NOTHING earthly that Mike and I did!

We are blessed beyond measure!

If Momma Meets Jesus Tonight...

2010-12-11T20:36:00.004-05:00

This is something I've never written about and really, have never even talked about... until now.

The first year I heard Newsong's "Christmas Shoes" song was the year that we knew would be Mom's last Christmas. Every time it came on the radio, I quickly turned it off! I couldn't get even the first verse in without tears flooding my vision... just hit too close to home.

That Christmas season was not going well AT ALL! Paige was born November 7th at 9 weeks early. While Paige was getting stronger in the NICU, Mom was getting weaker and weaker. Then Dad called one afternoon and told me the unthinkable.. she wasn't going to get better, the cancer had spread.

I felt so pulled... be in Indiana with my daughter? Be in Ohio with my Mom? Some days I did both and by the end of the day was physically, mentally, and emotionally exhausted and then would be up all night crying over feeling helpless... on both accounts!

We were all anxiously awaiting Paige to be released so that we could have one last family picture taken with my Mom. As soon as we got word that Paige could come home Dad scheduled it. We all knew why we were there... we knew it would be the last time we would have pictures taken with Mom, and it just plain sucked! But we all smiled and got through the afternoon, making sure that Mom stayed calm and unaware of all of us being upset.

Then Christmas Eve came... Mike and I decided to stay at our own home in Indiana that night, instead of staying at Mom & Dad's like we typically did. Paige was still attached to monitors and wires and was still very frail, so we felt it was best. Our plan was to get up Christmas morning and make the hour drive to Mom & Dad's. Little did we know we'd get nailed with an unexpected snowstorm that night that shut down all the roads under a state of emergency (Uhh.. for those of you southerners, that means it's actually ILLEGAL to be on the roads and they will haul you off to the slammer!). When I woke up and saw the news, I just cried! There was NO WAY that I was letting a snow storm keep me from spending my Mom's last Christmas on this earth with her and I didn't care who tried to stop me!

So... my amazing husband spent the next two hours shoveling us out as I called the sheriff's department and state highway patrol to figure out how to get to Mom's safely. I explained through tears to each of them why this was so important, and they gave me the "unofficially, I could tell you to try...". But, they all stressed how unsafe the roads were, if we got caught we could be in big trouble, and told me that we should stay put (Yeah... right! Like THAT was gonna happen!)

Once Mike shoveled us, I called my Dad and told him we were on our way, but not to tell Mom... no way could she have handled the stress of knowing we were driving in the mess! We loaded the kids in the van with lots of food, blankets, extra battery support for Paige's monitors, and emergency things in case we got ourselves in trouble. Mike looked at the kids and told them that once we left that garage no one was to say a word so that he could concentrate on the roads and that we WOULD make it to Grandma's house. (Have I mentioned how amazing he is?) And off we went...

The van was so quiet! The kids KNEW Daddy was serious and they KNEW the roads were bad. I prayed the entire way... "Please, Lord, just let me spend my Mom's last Christmas with her!! Please get us there safely!" I don't remember exactly how long it took us to get to my parent's house - but I know it was well over 2 hours (and it was only an hour drive normally) and as we turned on the road they lived on the tears were uncontrollable!! (Kind of like right now just reliving that day!).

That Christmas seemed just like all the others... lots of laughs, lots of cookies, lots of gifts, and lots of fun with the family. Deep down, we all knew it was actually very different; after all, it was Mom's last. I still remember her sitting on the couch wrapped up in her robe watching all the kids, taking it all in. She was frail, her hair was gone, her skin was pale... but she was so beautiful to watch! The smile on her face of having us ALL there made me so very thankful that I have a husband who will go to the great lengths for his family, and thankful that our Lord God protected us along the way!

Now, when I hear "Christmas Shoes" I can listen to it, but I still cry. My gift to my Mom that year was more than what was wrapped under the tree... it was that I would go to ANY length to be with her that very day just in case "Momma met Jesus tonight".

Tis the Season...

2010-12-10T19:59:00.003-05:00

To be.....

Yep! Sick! And not just Paige... but Daddy too!

Paige woke up with that undeniable seal bark, fever, and stridor that could only mean one thing... Croup! After the first dose of steroids, she's is sounding a bit better with just a tad of "roid rage" kicking in!

As for Michael... he's had a GI flu for a few days now. Last night he came home from work earlier than expected feeling just awful. I got a text from him around 2pm that said "I just did the unimaginable... I called in sick!". For those of you that really know Michael, you know that's serious! He hasn't called in to work on his own in almost 10 years! I came home from work to find that every time he even sits up, his world goes black and then the fun starts!

As for the rest of us... we are hiding from the 2 that are full of germs! Tomorrow will be spent disinfecting the entire house!

It's Snowing!

2010-12-04T14:19:00.003-05:00

Last year, the first snowfall was on December 18th when we got a snowstorm that shut down the city for days! Well, today is December 4th and we're getting snow already! Here's to hoping it doesn't amount to much! I'm not ready for winter!

Total Brag Moment!

2010-11-26T22:14:00.003-05:00

Kayleigh got "bored" tonight and free painted this in TWO HOURS! Not sure about you, but when I'm bored I certainly don't create things like this!

Thankful...

2010-11-26T20:44:00.003-05:00

We spent Thanksgiving with the Hobeck's again this year. Jim & Jenni came over early in the day and helped prep while the kids played. We really missed not having Devin home this year (he had to work ALL day!) But we shared lots of laughs around the house and really had a great time!

We are very thankful for so many things, but we are especially thankful to have friends that are like family to spend Thanksgiving with when our family is so far away!

Family Movie Night!

2010-11-26T20:34:00.005-05:00

It is a rare occasion that all 6 of us are home on a night that there is not school the next day! Wednesday, and we took advantage of it!

As soon as the pies were baked and the house was prepped for Thanksgiving, Mike got that popcorn started. As soon as Mike pulled it out of the cabinet, Andy was at his feet begging!

Once everyone was settled in their places we started the movie... but Andy was ALL over the kids begging for popcorn the entire time! We laughed at him as much as we did at the movie (National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation).

The kids enjoyed the family time and Mike and I enjoyed having them all in the same place. Paige especially enjoyed it... she hardly even remembers how we used to make this a weekly even through the Christmas season.

And this man... I love how he loves special family time like this! Such a good Daddy and Husband that really looks for nights like this to take advantage of!

Our Town

2010-11-23T20:54:00.000-05:00

(Kayleigh, Shelby, and Andrea)

Kayleigh was in another play at Reagan High School last week, Our Town. She wasn't initially part of the cast, only the set help. But they needed some more girls, so she ended up playing a town person. Have to admit, not one of my favorite plays, but it's always fun to watch Kayleigh and her friends on stage! They always do a great job!

Chase Can't Catch a Break!

2010-11-19T18:33:00.007-05:00

Or maybe, he breaks too easily!

Cast #1 - November 2009

Do you all remember THIS post from last November (2009)? It's when Chase's ankle drama all started!

Silly thing has caused trouble on and off up until September of this year, when whamo... he broke it again and Cast #2 was put on!

Cast #2 - September 2010

After Cast #2 came off we started therapy, but Chase had more and more pain, and had more and more difficulty bearing weight on it. So... we had an MRI done that indicated two stress fractures in the foot! Ended up having Cast #3 put on in mid October! Only this time, we were told the cast would be on for 6-8 weeks, with a cast change every 3.

Cast #3 - October 2010

Cast change was to be this past Wednesday, the 17th of November. Michael took him over - as it was to be an easy appointment (not that he can't handle extensive appointments!). Chase had some blistery areas on the ankle with a lot of "scaliness", so they opted for a big black boot instead, and said continue strict non-weight bearing and crutches.

Big Black Boot - November 2010

With Chase, nothing is ever easy! Last night, he started wailing with burning pain inside his heel. Called an orthopedic friend of ours who was able to contact Chase's orthopedic doctor. They called him in some good drugs to help him sleep, told us to take off the boot (but NO weight on the foot!), and to take him in early this morning. Well.... That is when Cast #4 went on!

Cast #4 - November 2010

Now... we wait for December 8th to roll around to see what they're going to do. Dr. B (who is fabulous by the way!) is HOPING that they can get him in the boot and allow him to start to put SOME weight on it with some therapy. Nothing ever goes as planned in Chase's world... so I guess we wait and see!

It's Begining to Look a Lot Like....

2010-11-17T19:10:00.004-05:00

CHRISTMAS!!!!

He's Really a Senior!!!

2010-11-12T17:51:00.003-05:00

Happy Birthday to Our Firecracker!

2010-11-07T07:00:00.001-05:00

Paige Olivia Lyons
November 7, 2002
Just Hours After Birth

8 Years ago today, our youngest daughter was born at 30 weeks gestation... just over 9 weeks premature. We were laying all the Faith we had in God to guide the hands of the doctors and nurses that day, and to take care of our new little princess and to get me through the difficult surgery. That He did!!

Today, she is an amazing, gorgeous, sweet, brilliant, funny, and sometimes a firecracker of a little EIGHT year old girl that we grow more proud of every day. She truly is our little miracle and we are forever thankful for God's grace and healing touch for her to be a part of our family!

Happy Birthday Sweet Girl!

Ohio!!!!

2010-11-06T18:19:00.005-04:00

We recently made our annual trip over Halloween and again, we had a blast!

Friday we were able to drive to Angola to see Mike's sister's new house, then head to the Wayne Trace High School football game to see old friends. We FROZE... but loved it! There were even a few of my Paulding friends there!

Saturday we met up with Mike's Mom and Step-Dad for a family gathering. The kids had a blast using Grandpa Chris as a jumping gym, and riding the 4 wheeler in the yard. Jarrick managed to raid the alcohol cabinet which consequently led to sibling shots!! Oh My!

Later that afternoon we went to Mike's Dad & Step-Mom's house for trick-or-treat with the rests of the family, followed by a fun bonfire in the backyard. The kids look forward to this every year, and this year was no different!

That left Sunday for us to visit with my Dad and Step-Mom and not be rushed. I treasure every minute with them and always hate to leave. It was great to see that he looks so good and Cassie is still taking great care of him!

We also spent some time with Grandma Molitor and Grandma Lyons. Mike just melts when he's with them and is always a sweet thing to see the love he has for each of them!

Mike took early Saturday morning to visit the cemetaries in Payne. He has a few dear high school friends who have lost their lives too early, and he spent some time with Grandparents who have already died. The photos of him at each gravesite bring tears to my eyes... he is such a rock, it's rare to see him just quiet and somber.

Until next year...

Best Friends Are For...

2010-10-18T19:24:00.003-04:00

Kayleigh had laryngitis for well over a week, but suddenly turned worse last Tuesday. I took her to the doctor figuring she had strep, but the test was negative and the doctor said it was just a virus. We got the usual instructions... got lots of rest and drink plenty of fluids.

Later that evening Kayleigh went up to my bathroom to take a bath. I faintly heard her say "Mommy I need you...", which was quite odd for her. I went to the bottom of the stairs and said "Kayleigh?..... KAYLEIGH?..." and got nothing.

When I went upstairs I found her laying on my bathroom floor, unconscious! An image that I am having a terrible time erasing from my mind! After about 3 minutes she started to rouse a little. I called for help from neighbors and a dear friend of mine to help me get her safely down 3 flights of steps to the van.

I also called Kayleigh's friend Liz because they had been texting all night and I knew Liz was worried sick. Liz actually BEAT us to the hospital and stayed with her the whole time! She let Kayleigh lean on her while I completed boatloads of paperwork, and she prayed with her while we waited. It was so sweet to watch a friend care that much!

In the end, Kayleigh was VERY dehydrated and that's what caused the passing out episode. They pumped her with lots of fluids and then sent us on our merry way after about 5 hours. She's still a bit tired and weak, but getting better each and every day!

Fun Filled Fall Saturday!

2010-10-18T18:57:00.004-04:00

We had a fabulous family, fun-filled fall Saturday with the kids! I have been begging Mike for YEARS to go to a pumpkin patch with us, come home and carve some pumpkins with the kids. Every year he moans and groans, and I usually let him talk me out of it. But not this year!

After he got up Saturday we headed to Pine Grove United Methodist Church, where they host a pumpkin patch every year to benefit their after-school program. Chase and Paige had fun picking out the perfect pumpkin to carve. Kayleigh even picked a baby pumpkin. Devin was with us as well, but he was just along for the fun.

When we got home we set them up on the back porch to carve away! Yep... Mike cut the tops off and we watched them have a blast doing the rest! Paige needed a little bit of Daddy help now and again... but did a pretty good job!

In the end, we had 3 of the cutest pumpkins on the block!

What fall Saturday isn't complete with a grilled out meal? Mike prepped up some drum sticks and potato salad for a family dinner. We were looking forward to all of us at the table again... something that doesn't happen too very often anymore.

But....

In true Lyons fashion lately... we couldn't have a fun family filled day without ending up at the Urgent Care Center! Somehow, Paige got some sort of a HUGE abscessy thing on her gums that popped up out of the blue!

Mike stayed home and ate chicken with Chase, while Kayleigh and I took Paige to be seen. By the time we got home, Daddy was at work and the chicken was cold... boo to that!!

All in all we did have a good day despite our little detour! Even though I'm sure he won't admit it... Mike had a good time and we plan to do it again next year!

2010 Dixie Classic Fair

2010-10-10T14:23:00.003-04:00

Mike and I took Chase, Paige, and Kayleigh to the Dixie Classic Fair Saturday afternoon (Devin was working and went earlier in the week).

First ... let me say.... why on EARTH we EVER felt that Saturday afternoon with weather in the mid 70's was a great idea I will NEVER know! It took us 30 minutes to find a place to park and then we were jam packed at the fair with lots of rude, obnoxious, and smelly people! Soooooooo not kidding! Next year, we definitely go back to the middle of the week fair day!

Second... we had to refinance a few things to pay for the ride tickets for the kids this year! OK... so maybe that's exaggerating... but it was expensive! Whatever happened to the simple wristbands that got the kids on rides all day long for one flat price? This $40 for a pass card of 30 tickets is for the birds, especially when the rides are at LEAST 4 tickets each!

But on a brighter note... Chase & Paige had a blast. Kayleigh had fun, but wasn't feeling the greatest (still recovering from laryngitis!). This year Chase was super stoked that he was tall enough to ride the Topspin! Ain't no way you'd get me on that thing... but he sure enjoyed it sitting front row center!

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Paige was also tall enough to ride all the "big kid" rides and was thrilled to death! Big brother Chase even rode with her on a few things... but I'm sure she'd have been fine on her own!

(look for the red arrows towards the left)

(Look for the red circle towards the top left)

So... until next year.... we will enjoy the memories and photos, and eat our mac 'n cheese for a month because our grocery budget went to fair organizers who know that Moms and Dads like us will hand out a fortune just to watch their kids have a great afternoon...

Walking Down a New Path

2010-09-11T13:13:00.002-04:00

I am following my heart for the first time in a long time. I have decided to take part in our youth ministry at church. My kids are VERY involved in the ROCYouth program and it has made such a huge impact on their lives! Many of their friends were not Christian, but through my kids they have turned to the Lord and are now also part of the youth ministry. It's so exciting to see this new love in them all!

New things are often scary and uncomfortable, and this is too, but I'm excited to see how God uses me in the lives of our youth!

Buddy Walk 2010!!!

2010-09-10T13:06:00.000-04:00

Last year, Kayleigh did a Reflections Photoshoot with 3 little ones from our church who have Down Syndrome. It went so well, that Ava's parents (friends of ours) called and asked her to do a photoshoot for the Buddy Walk 2010 Billboard! She was THRILLED for the opportunity and this billboard above was the finished project!

The Piedmont Down Syndrome Support Network will be hosting this year's Buddy Walk 2010 on Saturday October 9th at Tanglewood Park just outside of Winston-Salem. We will be there walking along side of Ava, Ryan, Ethan, and others! Please join us!!

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year!

2010-08-28T20:38:00.004-04:00

Back to school time that is!

This year was a year of big changes...

Kayleigh started her junior year and is taking 1/2 day at the Career Center in Photography classes. She's super excited about it... we are too.... other than the expense that comes with it! LOL!

Chase is in a new middle school this year. We toured it the night of open houses... my that child is gonna get some good walkin' in! He's spread all over campus!

Devin is a SENIOR this year! Really??? I swear he was JUST born yesterday! His senior year certainly won't be a cake walk though... with 6 AP classes that are for college credit!

And Paige started the 2nd grade at a new elementary school. She walked into open house very shy and hid behind my leg. But it didn't take long for her to show her true colors!

Fun Times!

2010-08-14T19:46:00.003-04:00

Happy Birthday, Chase!

2010-08-14T06:00:00.000-04:00

Chase turns 12 years old today, at 12:25pm to be precise! What a day that was for all of us. Grandma and Grandpa Casto made the drive to Bloomington for your birth - we were so glad they were there!

Chase was determined to be born that day regardless of the planned c-section! I woke up that morning and went into labor before we even left for the hospital. Created quite the stir when we got to the hospital considering I HAD to have a c-section! Little did we know that was just the beginning of the day's chaos.

After all 9 pounds 6 ounces of Chase was delivered via c-section things got pretty ugly for a while. I remember being in the recovery room and Mike being with me. Then all the nurses scurrying around, Mike being pushed out of the room, and then rushing me back into surgery. At one point, after losing several pints of blood, the nurse went out to tell Mike and my parents I was bleeding bad and they weren't able to stop it - the outcome was looking very grim. Fortunately, by the power of God, they were wrong.

I don't remember anything after recovery until the next day when I was told what happened. Mike looked at me with tears in his eyes saying I scared them all and I was never to do that again. He was terrified of losing me and being a single father of 3.

I spent the next week in the hospital and have enjoyed every minute of watching Chase grow up! He's struggled with more medical problems than any child should have to endure, yet is always smiling from ear-to-ear!

Chase - you bring so much joy to our lives! We're so very proud of how far you've come and we know that you will continue to reach for the stars!

We love you Buddy!

Mom and Dad

Tennessee!!!

2010-08-05T12:48:00.000-04:00

We took a short 4 day vacation to Tennessee with the Lyons side of the family this year. We sure crammed a lot in... but here's some highlights that we thought were fun!

First... we got a little behind and didn't leave North Carolina until late Saturday morning. We knew that meant we'd hit traffic... but we didn't realize we'd hit a PARKING LOT! I guess the sign that says "Check Fuel Level" should have been a clue!! The rock slide on I-40 West that happened last year still had things quite a mess. Once we got to the actual rock slide, it was quite fascinating to look at... a HUGE chunk of the mountain just wiped away!

Finally, after a spending almost 2 hours to travel about 10 miles... we were on our way again!

We finally made it to our cabin! Saturday evening we spent just hanging out, visiting, and letting the big kids and little kids all play. The cabin had pinball, a pool table, and a few arcade games that kept everyone quite entertained!

Sunday we hiked a bit at the Ogle Farm with all the kids, then spent some time at the pool. Later in the evening we headed downtown Gatlinburg to play some Hillbilly Golf!

Monday, we hiked up to Laurel Falls and spent some time up at the top... it was gorgeous, and the falls made it very cool! Afterwards we picnicked at Chimney Top and let the kids swim and play in the rapids. I think it's fair to say that Grandma Lyons was a nervous wreck... but all was well!

Monday evening we headed to the "Best Italian" restaurant in downtown Gatlinburg. It POURED down rain! While we were waiting outside under cover, our entertainment was my 2 nephews doing the Macarena dance! Hilarious and cute as ever!!

Tuesday morning, before the rest of the family left, we all headed down to the Log Cabin Pancake House... Lyons family tradition every year, I'm told. It certainly didn't let us down! Yummo!! The kids spent a bit of time on the rockers out front while the adults all said their goodbyes...

The rest of Tuesday was just us. We enjoyed exploring the mountains on our own. Took a nice drive up to Cade's Cove, then picnicked at another rapids area where the kids could play a bit, and got some good group pics of them... much to Kayleigh's dismay (she HATES pictures!)!!

All in all... it was a fabulous trip to the Smokey Mountains where we made LOTS of fun memories to share for years to come!

Happy Belated Birthday, Kayleigh!

2010-08-04T20:45:00.000-04:00

Well... maybe not belated, but belated to the blog! Before we left for Tennessee, Kayleigh celebrated her Sweet 16th Birthday a little early, with many friends! The original plan had to be altered a bit because of rain, but they had a blast! We started with Michael grilling hotdogs, hamburgers, and more for a group of about 20+ kids and some of the youth leaders from church. After that, they chatted about the house for a while before watching "Up" on a DVD projector that lit up the far wall light a theater screen! They loved it!

While in Gatlinburg, Grandma Lyons made sure Kayleigh's birthday didn't go unnoticed! We had cake and ice cream with the family one evening!

It's so hard to believe that our baby girl is SIXTEEN! We are so proud of the young woman she is becoming and look forward to seeing what God has in plan for her!

Happy Birthday, Grandma McMahon!

2010-08-03T20:55:00.000-04:00

July 14 would have been Grandma McMahon's 82nd birthday. We miss her very much and I would love to hear her voice again! I think of her often... especially as my kids grow up! She loved all her grandkids SO much! When I would call her, or she would call me... it was always them she asked about first! I tell my kids stories of our trips to Wheeling, eating Kielbasa and Colby Jack cheese late at night, getting up early and having hot tea with oatmeal for breakfast, and going shopping for our special time at Hills! What I wouldn't give for one more day with her!

But, I know that she's with my Mom though, and look forward to the day I see them both again!

61 Years Ago Today...

2010-07-10T05:43:00.000-04:00

My Mother was born, a beautiful baby girl who grew up to be a beautiful woman both inside and out. I miss her so very much, but still remember every detail of her face, how she smiled as she baked in the kitchen, and yes, I even remember the growl on her face when I made her unhappy!

While she's not here with us, we know she is celebrating her special day with the angels in Heaven.

Much love to you, Mom!

Happy Birthday!

Lives are Changing in Jamaica!

2010-07-07T19:45:00.003-04:00

Last Friday morning, we put Devin on a plane with 41 others from our church. Their destination... Newport Jamaica to build a church, work in an infirmary, and to minister to those in hard times. About 2 weeks prior to the trip, Devin said he changed his mind, said he wasn't feeling led to go. But - because of the commitment he made to the church, and to the people he was going to serve, we pushed him a bit and told him we felt he needed to go.

During these 2 weeks, Devin challenged us in many ways. Definitely reminded us that he is a teenager and is still "growing up" so to speak. The day after Devin left, we were informed of some bad decisions that Devin had recently made. From that point, I prayed and prayed and prayed that this trip would heal his heart, change his life, and that he would rededicate himself to the Lord.

Well... He did just that! On the 3rd day of the trip, parents got an update that 2 of the kids not only rededicated themselves to the Lord, but they asked to be baptized. Devin was one of those kids!

While we are very, very happy for him; we know that when he returns he has some VERY difficult decisions to make and has to face some things that have been done. He will also need to face a friendship with someone that has led Devin down some wrong paths

Please, pray with us, that Devin will continue to keep his focus on a Jesus who loves him, and that our God would give Devin the strength to handle what is ahead of him.

SURPRISE!!!!!!!!!!!!

2010-06-24T19:41:00.004-04:00

Apparently, a month or so ago, Mike's brother Jason started scheming with Mike to come surprise the kids with a visit. Uncle Jason is probably the favorite Uncle in the family (sorry Uncle Jarrick and Uncle Bill!)... more than likely it's because he's just a big playful kid himself!

I wish we would have had a video camera to record all of the reactions... he got here when all of the kids were actually out of the living room. So, we had him sneak up the steps into the living room and he just sat on the end of the couch.

Kayleigh came through the hallway first... when she saw him she squealed, then cried! Paige heard all of the commotion and came running, then she yelled UNCLE JASONNNNNNN as she tackled him on the couch with a big hug! Then comes Chase... all he could say was "how'd he get here?" with a stunned look on his face. Last, Devin came home from being out, came up the steps and FROZE! He couldn't even speak!

(Kayleigh... still in shock that Uncle Jason is here!)

Jason's trip couldn't have been more perfect in God's timing. Kayleigh has ALWAYS had a special bond with Jason. More so than any other family member. His trip just happened to be timed perfectly with the week that she was having her procedure and tests done at the hospital. It was great to have him here to keep the mood light and fun, and to keep her mind off the serious stuff!

By the end of the week we were all sad to see him go! The kids had fun wrestling with him, playing basketball, watching movies, and just hanging out with him! Mike enjoyed having his brother around as well. And even me, despite the craziness of having that many Lyons boys in the house... had a good time!

Happy Father's Day My Love...

2010-06-20T08:28:00.000-04:00

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And Now We Wait...

2010-06-16T17:15:00.002-04:00

We spent the day at Brenner Children's Hospital while Kayleigh went through some various tests and procedures. She handled it all like a trooper - just as I knew she would.

She has a follow up with cardiology on July 14th, Neurology is supposed to call us in the next few days.

So now, we wait...

HAPPY 17th BIRTHDAY DEVIN!

2010-06-12T07:15:00.000-04:00

Michael Devin Lyons

June 12, 1993

5:31pm

9 pounds 6 ounces 21 1/2 inches long

Let's see if we can go back and remember how that day went ... oh ... wait ... it actually started two days prior!

Thursday June 10th I had the WORST back pain I could have ever imagined!! I suffered through it all night long, not realizing it was actually contractions! Mike reluctantly went in for his third shift schedule - I assured him I was fine! When he arrived home Friday morning I was still miserable. He stayed awake with me to be sure I was ok. Little did he know he'd be needing that sleep that he should have had!

Later that afternoon it got so bad that Mike called the hospital. The advice they gave was to have me lay on a heating pad set to low. So - that's what we did. NOT SMART! Within 15 minutes of laying on that heating pad my water broke and I was in the worst pain - now realizing it was full blown contractions! I jumped up yelling - terrified I was going to electrocute myself on that heating blanket!

Mike came in the room to see what the fuss was about and he immediately freaked out! In the prenatal classes - he saw the water break, then the baby come. He thought we were having that baby right then and there. He grabbed the phone, called the hospital and I'll never forget what he said - "HER WATER BROKE! THE BABY'S COMING NOW! WHAT DO I DO?!?!" I'm sure the nurse on the other end was laughing! She calmly told him to put me in the car and drive.

I got in the car (Mike's new car I might add) and with every contraction more water came! I'll spare you the details - other than the fluid was full of meconium and his nice new car seat was now covered in it! That 10 mile drive to Paulding Hospital felt like an eternity! By the time I got there we were told that I was dilating quickly and we'd have a baby by the time the night was over (this was Friday, June 11th)

They were half right ... I dilated quickly and began pushing sometime around midnight. But - by morning there was still no baby. Devin was posterior, face up, and I was small in the hips (ok - stop laughing now!). They started talking c-section and I refused. I kept pushing for several hours (and literally broke 2 of Mike's fingers!), and only after the baby's heartrate starting getting irratic did I start to consider it. By now - it was noon on Saturday, June 12.

When I finally caved to the c-section - we found out that my doctor, a small-town family doctor, was not certified to do a c-section and the only surgeon for Paulding County Hospital couldn't be located! I could keep trying while they kept trying to locate him, or I could transfer to a different hospital. The decision was made to transfer by my husband and family.

I layed there - in full labor - pushing when I could - until after 3pm while they made arrangements. By now - Mike had been awake since Thursday night at 11pm . . . over 30 hours! I went via ambulance, he and my parents followed. For whatever reason the doctor chose not to stop my contractions - - - YIKES!

I arrived at Defiance Hospital shortly after 5:00pm - was rushed into surgery (by now the baby had low oxygen because of the cord being "pinched" with me trying to push). They quickly put me under general anesthesia as Mike was brought in and at 5:31pm we had our first child.

Now - the story isn't completely over! We were told at our very first ultrasound half-way through that we were having a girl! We picked out the name Kelsey Rachelle. When I woke up after surgery I remember seeing Mike beside me holding a baby with a big smile on his face. I said "can I hold her?" and he said "no . . . but you can hold your son instead!".

We spent about an hour together holding our son, picking a name, and then my parents made sure Mike made it home safely to sleep after being up for nearly 36 hours.

Hard to believe it's been 17 years! We are very proud of you, Devin, and the choices you are making in your life. You are fine young man and bring such joy to your lives.

We love you much!

Love Mom and Dad!

This is getting OLD!

2010-06-09T10:15:00.003-04:00

This is getting old...... Kayleigh had another rough day earlier this week. Dizzy spells, headaches, weakness, etc. But, hopefully, we'll have answers soon.

Dr. Sam (Neurologist) and Dr. Covitz (Cardiologist) have finally teamed up and were able to get all of Kayleigh's procedure/testing appointments in one day! They are fabulous I tell ya! Next Wednesday, June 16, we start at 10:30am check in where Kayleigh will be put in an inpatient room (but she will NOT be inpatient). They will then take her to EEG, followed by EKG, followed by the Tilt-Table Lab, followed by radiology. All of this will take roughly 4 hours, then she will have to stay 3-4 hours to be monitored before they release her, just to make sure she's ok (the Tilt-Table Lab could be rough).

It's going to be a very LONG, miserable day... but in the end they should be able to pull together all the results and begin to put a plan in place!

Weekend Retreat!!

2010-06-06T20:12:00.005-04:00

Mike and I had the opportunity to spend a much needed, weekend retreat away in the mountains this weekend. We chose Lonesome Pine Cabins on the Blue Ridge Parkway. A friend of ours from church had been there and loved it, so off we went. We spent the entire weekend in the cute little cabin above, and enjoyed this simply gorgeous view from the cabin...

The first place we visited on Friday evening, was the Mabry Mill. We loved our time there, and really enjoyed seeing the still working mill. Along the walk, they also had cabins and work sheds with stories of the original community and what they did. They also had an old whiskey still, still sitting off the lands, where moonshine was made (illegally of course!). This is someplace we plan to take the kids back to - for the history, and for the sheer beauty of it!

Saturday, we timed just perfectly! We arrived at the breathtakingly gorgeous Chateau Morrisette Winery right before their 11am tour. It was interesting to see how exactly they take a simple grape and turn it into wine! Our tour guide was a lot of fun... and we were the only ones on the 11am tour, so she thought Mike was pretty fun too! Of course, he typically is after a few glasses of wine... which is essentially what he had by the time he was done tasting 10 different wines!

After our tour we headed over the Chateau Morrisette Restaurant for a fabulous lunch with an incredible view over the mountains! From there, we drove along the parkway and made various stops along the way taking pictures here and there.

The Pucket Cabin is a stop we made that really touched my heart. It's a cabin where a lady lived to be 102 years of age. In her years, she was a midwife and delivered over 1,000 healthy babies! But, sadly, she birthed 24 of her own babies who never lived beyond infancy. Yet, she continued on helping other Moms and was known to be a very kind, sweet, Godly woman.

Groundhog Mountain was a majestic view from this overlook. There is a cabin way down deep in the woods that we could see from up there... Mike's decided he wants to buy it! Have to admit, the owners of that cabin wake up to the most amazing views of the mountains!!!

Sunday we had hoped to visit Mayberry... Home to Andy Griffith. But it was all closed on Sundays!!! Crazy I tell ya! So - instead we hiked at Pilot Mountain, just the two of us and we had a great time! It was perfect temps with a nice breeze to keep us cooled down! And as always, once you reach the overlooks, we had fabulous views of the Pinnacle!

Every couple needs a weekend away now and again, to remember why they fell in love. To remember that there's more to life than work, kids, errands, and playing taxi. I can't wait until our next weekend retreat away!