Hope you had a Merry Christmas!

Christmas 2011

1st day home

 

Coming home! December 23rd 2006

"Gotcha" Day 2006

December 10th 2006 ( a look back)

We had a great day today sightseeing in Beijing. Here is a picture of our group from our adoption agency (AHH) on the Great Wall. It is hard to believe that we were able to not only see, but climb one of the wonders of the world. It was definitely a steep climb. Willie, Neil, Cole and I went up to the first guard station and it was a challenge.

These pictures don't even capture how steep these steps actually are. I was very proud of Cole and Neil for climbing as high as we did.
Earlier in the day we went to a jade factory and learned how to choose the different grades of jade. There was some beautiful pieces in the shop, but most were out of our price range, plus we didn't want to lug around a bunch of heavy jade for the next two weeks.
After we left the jade factory we went to eat at an authentic Chinese restaurant. The food was very good. As you can see from the picture, it was served family style, which is fine, but they gave us plates the size of small saucers. So I had about 20 servings.
Fish heads anyone??
We had some interesting bus trips through the City. You would not believe the way traffic is here in Beijing. Cars, bikes, pedestrians, mopeds, scooters, buses, trucks--all serving in and out of traffic at their will. Suprisingly not too much road rage, just a few horn honks here and there. There were several times when I saw two cars side by side in the same lane!!
Beijing is a bustling and growing city. There is construction everywhere, especially with the Olympics coming in 2008. That should be very interesting. The people of China are very hospitable to foreigners . They are very fascinated by the kids, because they look so different than the children here.

Praise God!

PT has been placed on hold until the halo comes off! No brace, no heel lift, no walker, no e-stim. The wheelchair has been parked! Here are a few pictures from the Christmas Play. With love and prayers.

In Christ,

Sandy

Another praise!

The leg brace is off! Real shoes again! Pretty exciting stuff....Praise God!

In Christ,
Sandy

2 down...

for now Syd's down to 1 therapy per week, starting next week. OT is officially on hold until the halo comes off. PT has decreased to 1 time per week at least until January when she has her reevaluation. Praise the Lord!


In Christ,
Sandy

Weekly therapy update...

Therapy is going well...Syd continues to improve. She's only using the wheelchair for school work and mealtimes, otherwise she uses the walker. Her therapists are both VERY happy about this! OT will probably put her therapy on hold until the halo comes off (whenever that is), as she has met all of her goals for OT. Praise the Lord!

Love and prayers.


In Christ,
Sandy

Still too soon....

Syd's appt. went well. Xrays "look good". But still too early to give any estimates. I think they were very pleased with her progress especially considering that last time she could barely move her toes on the right. So - not much to talk about - she'll go back in six weeks for another follow up. Thanks for your prayers today!

In Christ,
Sandy

Therapy went very well this week! Praise the Lord! Both PT and OT are very pleased with Syd's progress up to this point. As of today Syd can remove her brace during the day, she'll only need it when walking (for now). A few therapies have been increased. One in particular is very hard but she's able to do it! Again - praise the Lord. So now we're waiting for the follow up appt. with Neuro and Ortho next week. Hopefully they can give us a better estimate as to when the halo can come off. In the meantime please continue to keep Sydney and our family in your prayers.


With love and prayers.

In Christ,
Sandy

Your Weekly Update.....

After a few days of regression on the right side....we seem to be back on track. The therapist said there would be fluctuations but after days of continued improvement it was hard to see the loss of function again. She was still able to wiggle her toes however which is always a good thing. So like I said before - it seems that we are back on track. Therapy has been good this week. Both PT and OT have  increased some therapies and added extra resistance as they were becoming too easy. As always your prayers are so appreciated. And  thank you for the cards and gifts that keep coming Sydney's way:)

With love and prayers that you know Christ....

In Him,
Sandy

A little velcro and a whole lot of love.....

thank you :)

The 1st tooth!

Sydney lost her 1st tooth today! I really hope this doesn't turn into a competition to lose as many teeth as JC.....

Per request....

Sydney is doing fine! Very well as a matter of fact. Not really anything new to report. She is still at Cardinal Hill on Mondays and Thursdays and doing therapy at home the remainder of the week. She doesn't have another appt. at CCH until November, she'll see Neuro and Ortho that day. She'll  have spinal xrays as well. Maybe this time they can give us an estimate as to when she can have the halo removed. I really think she'd be walking on her own if she didn't have the halo...but she NEEDS the halo right now. We don't want it off too soon.

Love and prayers...

In Christ,
Sandy

Grace abounds!

Sydney has had some MAJOR improvements today! She can do heel/knee lifts on her own. This is huge! Praise God!

In Christ,
Sandy

More......

praises to God! Sydney has been doing GREAT! Moving her toes, feet, and legs! She continues to improve everyday! We are so very grateful for all of the healing that God has provided! Thank you all so very much for your prayers.....

In Christ,
Sandy

It's official......

JC has given up (LOST) his title as UNO professional. I think that Sydney won every single game today. I even found some cards under the table - apparently he can't even win by cheating......

A Praise!

Sydney has progressed by leaps and bounds in the last few days! Her PT was VERY excited! She can wiggle her toes (most of the time) and is taking actual steps. She has also gained a lot of upper body strength. Thank you so much for your continued prayers, love, and support. Thank the Lord for everything that He is doing!

In Christ,
Sandy

Day one

Sydney's 1st official day of outpatient rehab went very well! Today she worked on getting out of her chair and standing. She also brought home a walker. So later this afternoon we'll work on that. We'll also continue to do therapy here at home in between visits. Her PT gave her much of the same advice that I have been giving her - prayerfully she'll be more motivated to work hard. Please continue to keep us in your prayers.

To our wonderful "meal ministry" - thank you! It's been a blessing!

Love and prayers......


In Christ,
Sandy

Schedule....

PT 2x/week (Mondays and Thursdays)
OT 1x/week (Mondays) OT will increase therapy after the halo is removed

1st appointment.....

went well! Syd had xrays then met with her neuro and ortho surgeons. They said the xrays "looked good". Sydney was able to wiggle her toes on the right side (very slightly) but something - Praise God! They won't need to see her again until November. They said it was too early to give any estimates on the halo time. Prayerfully she'll be scheduled for rehab next week. Her next follow up appt is with her Rehab docs at  Cincinnati (in October). Quite a change of pace from the last several weeks! I'll take it!Thank you for your continued love and prayers. The care we've received has been amazing. New blessings everyday! For all of you that have brought food,or money, or a kind word this week - thank you so much! Love and prayers to everyone. Please continue to keep Sydney in your prayers, pray that she will be motivated to work hard. Most importantly thank God for everything that He has already done - to Him be the glory!

In Christ,
Sandy

Rehab......

Our 1st day at Cardinal Hill! Sydney had lengthy evaluations/therapy from PT and OT today. We don't have a schedule yet. We hope to hear something in a few days. The therapists will make their recommendations and then we'll be set up with our appt. schedule. In the meantime we have a rehab workbook filled with exercises for home! I'm sure she'll be glad to get back to Cardinal Hill after a few days with Mom;) Sydney has her 1st follow up appt. scheduled for this Thursday. She'll have xrays 1st and then meet with her Ortho and Neuro surgeons. I'm hoping they can give us an estimated time frame for the halo vest. Previously we've been told on average 3-6months but up to 1 year. So you know me...I'm praying for 8 weeks:)  Please pray specifically that Sydney will regain use of her right leg, as of now there is  minimal (barely noticeable) movement and pray also that she will ask for help when she needs it. This was something she struggled with prior to having any complications so now it's VERY important that she tells us what she needs. This will be hard for Sydney.

It's been such a blessing to be home....so very thankful!

Keep praising God!

In Christ,
Sandy

Home Sweet Home!

We are home - and oh how sweet it is!!!!!!! Sydney was greeted by a huge "Welcome Home" sign in the front yard! Thank you!!!!!!! I just can't express how good it is to be here with ALL of my family! Sydney's in the living room sitting in her sweet new bed! She's glad to be here too! We continue to stand in awe of everything that God has done! We are so very thankful. A big thank you to everyone for all of the prayers, kind comments, cards, gifts, phone calls, money.....everything! I might not post for a while as we're all excited to be back together. We're looking forward to some quiet times ...you know, there's only 8 of us:) So don't worry if we don't call or update the blog for a while. We might take a little break for a few days. Syd starts therapy PT and OT on Monday.  I'll let you know how that goes.With much love and prayers......

Oh! I almost forgot....Syd's beat JC at UNO Attack at least twice since she's been home;)

To God be the Glory!
In Christ,
Sandy

2 hours and 25 minutes......

I'm just sayin'........Dad will be here at 12:00! Sydney is at her morning therapy session. And I'm getting ready to take my morning "therapy" walk. We're packed and ready to go. Ready for a "new normal". Sydney's had the giggles since yesterday - she's so excited. I'm so thankful for this day. God brought Sydney safely through a very remarkable and risky surgery - today we are going home! A blessing indeed.....by the hand of God no doubt!

^"proclaiming thanksgiving aloud,and telling all your wondrous deeds."
Psalm 26:7
ESV

In Christ,
Sandy

"God's work done in God's way, will never lack God's supplies."

HudsonTaylor

Praise God!

We are going home tomorrow!!!!!!!Thank you, Jesus! This is a praise indeed! Please take a moment to give thanks to God for this wonderful news. Please keep in mind that Sydney still has a long road of recovery ahead. Please pray especially that her right leg regains function and that the tumors remain stable. For now we rejoice!

With much love and prayers for all that read the blog.


"This is the day that the LORD has made;let us rejoice and be glad in it."
 Psalm 118:24
ESV

In Christ,
Sandy

Ready.....

for another day! Syd is up eating breakfast. Therapy starts at 8:45. Ready.....oh so ready to get home! Today and tomorrow will be busy with discharge planning.

Last night was wonderful! We had dinner together - the whole family! Thanks Daddy for bringing everyone! Just another blessing!

"Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel, who alone does wondrous things. Blessed be His glorious name forever;may the whole earth be filled with His glory! Amen and Amen!"

Psalm 72:18-19
ESV

In Christ,
Sandy

Not much......

to talk about today. And that's a good thing! Just more of the same...rehab, rehab, rehab. God continues to bless us everyday! He supplies mercy and grace as needed. We've been blessed beyond measure and we continue to praise and thank God for all that He has done and will continue to do.

"Rejoice in the Lord always, again I will say Rejoice."
Philippians 4:4
ESV


In Christ,
Sandy

Maybe......

we'll get to go home by the end of the week! Lord willing of course..........

In Christ,
Sandy

Uno Attack!

Scheduled as part of therapy!!!!!!!!


In Christ,
Sandy

A restful night......

for the most part. A praise indeed! Sydney is up in her chair picking at eating breakfast. She's scheduled for PT at 8:45  and then on to OT, school time, and then recreational therapy. She'll come back for lunch and then do it all over again. And in the middle of all of that she'll see her doctors, nurses, and respiratory therapy. Please pray that she continues to heal and recover well.

JC and Irene,
Tell everyone Mommy loves them sooooooo much!

In Christ,
Sandy

Sunday......

Today was a good day - we were able to go to the cafeteria for lunch - together! Barry, Diana, and the boys came up for a nice visit as well. It was SO good to see them and just have them here with us. Sydney is doing well and getting geared up for a big therapy day tomorrow. We pray that we hear some good news regarding out patient therapy options. We are ready to get home and get into a "new normal" routine. I miss my family soooooo much........and so does Syd. But we know that God has a plan for all of this. I stand in awe of what He has done and the blessings that we've received through and during this time in our lives. It's amazing that I can be a part of it. I want to thank everyone for the wonderful comments. I know that I encouraged them for Sydney(she loves them) but I have been so blessed by the loving and encouraging words that have been sent my way as well. I truly thank God for them.

In Christ,
Sandy

Saturday

Today has been a good day! Only 2 therapy sessions - a lot more time to rest up a bit. She's  had a good day. Dad and the kids got here this afternoon - she loves her "peoples"! She's always so happy to see them. Continue to keep prayers going up. Pray that Sydney will have a restful night  and a productive week. And while you're at it say a prayer for new found friend of ours. With love and prayers......

In Christ,
Sandy

Just to clarify......

Sydney will be staying  here until she goes home. There may have been some confusion that she was going to Lexington but that will be for out patient therapy only. And the quote was from a friend.......Sydney wasn't crying. I just thought it was nice. There have been a few times that I have cried just because I knew I was loved. Of course, it should bring tears to our eyes every time we think of Christ on the Cross.........

In Christ,
Sandy

Working toward home......

Family meeting went well. They would like for Sydney to stay in house for rehab up to 4 weeks........on my! So we're working on some different rehab options to get Sydney home much sooner. And keep in mind 4 weeks is an estimate not an absolute, so we've marked that time frame off. We just need to take it day by day.Living where we do, we have numerous resources available to us(just another blessing). So we should be able to make a relatively smooth transition to home/rehab. Keep praying that Sydney continues to heal and recover well. She's really doing great with all of her therapies but some night time rest would help a lot. And that's just hard to come by in the hospital. We feel like we're on the same page as the rehab team - we all just want what's best for Sydney. And I think we'll get there (by God's grace of course). All in His timing.........

A big, big thank you to everyone for your love and prayers....

In Christ,
Sandy

Family meeting......

coming up soon. We are all SO ready to go home. Pray that this meeting will go well. We're hoping that we can get some in home therapy scheduled or even outpatient therapy arranged soon but we have to see what they recommend today. Pray for us........I'll let you know later this afternoon.

In Christ,
Sandy

Birds and skunks and armadillos......oh, my!

No snakes ........I know that some of you are very relieved. Do you honestly think I would let Syd put a snake on her halo? Okay - don't answer that.......Sydney is doing great today! She's actually working on a regular diet today! Not eating a lot but "real" food! She's at therapy right now. She has 2 sessions everyday with PT and OT. She also has recreational therapy and school time in the afternoon. We are looking forward to our family meeting tomorrow. It will be nice to have a target date in mind. You guys just keep praying that it's sooner rather than later:) Rehab is a BUSY place so don't worry if I haven't updated the blog. Like I said Rehab is a BUSY place. Just not a lot of time for phone calls and blogs. I know you understand:) But keep the comments coming - Syd enjoys them. Mail time is also becoming a big hit as well! Continue to praise God for ALL that He has done and will continue to do!


In Christ,
Sandy

And the award goes to...........

                                                              Lisa!

Unofficially of course. JC will probably call for a recount. Miss Lisa ALWAYS leaves a kind word for Sydney, usually with every post!It means SO much! Thank you, thank you. I think it's a close call between JC and Irene. I REALLY do appreciate all of the comments but most importantly Sydney does:) Now, of course Sydney gets the BIG award for all of her hard work......any prize ideas JC? We've had a tour of the Rehab floor and a visit to the family room. Getting ready to have some lunch and then probably some therapy this afternoon. God is good.....

In Christ,
Sandy

Rehab!

Sydney just got transferred to her Rehab room! Another blessing for sure! Today will be another busy day with therapy. The Zoo will be here today at 2:30 so that will be fun. I've tried to talk Sydney into getting a snake to wrap around the halo but she's just not going for it! Friday we will have a family meeting to discuss therapy plans, progress, and anticipated discharge date. Please pray that Syd continues to improve. We are so very thankful for all that God has done for Sydney. It's also been such a blessing to be at the Ronald McDonald House, it's so good for ALL of us to be together! To God be the glory!

In Christ,
Sandy

A better day!

A much better day.....Praise the Lord! Sydney has been busy, busy, busy! Lots of work to do........She's been drinking more Pediasure today, only 1 more to go for tonight! They've changed her breathing treatments (she's doing "bubble" therapy). Much, much better! She's been up in the chair several times. We are getting ready to go have dinner together in the family dining room!!!!! They have stopped her IV fluids as long as she continues to drink enough. She's also been off of her oxygen since last night. Blessings abound....pray that she continues to be motivated and continues to improve. Rehab mentioned 2-3 weeks inpatient...pray that it's MUCH sooner.

Thank God for EVERYTHING!

In Christ,
Sandy

A rough day......

Sydney had a lot of visitors today! Always a blessing.....she was also able to take a ride in the wheelchair for a few minutes. One of the main concerns for Sydney at this point is getting her to eat. So, we've been pushing the Pediasure all day. Really anything that she wants but she has no appetite.The "brace guy" came in to adjust her halo which was kind of scary and uncomfortable. She's still on oxygen as well and needed a breathing treatment today (pretty traumatic for her), as soon as that was finished .......you guessed it.....she threw up. Where did it go? Under the vest of course...... in case you're wondering, the vest can't be removed. She's still waiting to see Physical Therapy later today. Prayerfully after a few more breathing treatments she can be weaned from her oxygen. She's starting to struggle with depression as well (so it seems), I can see why. Please pray that these issues will resolve and that she becomes more motivated. She has a lot of work to do. She really hasn't started the hard part yet.......Please continue to lift her up in prayer as well as everyone that is trying to help her. A rough day - yes - but we continue to praise God for all that He has already done and will continue to do!

^"Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving; let us make a joyful noise to him with songs of praise!"
Psalm 95:2
ESV


In Christ,
Sandy

Waiting.......

for the OR. Sydney's night was okay. She was "turned" at 12M and again at 7A. She was scheduled for the OR at 7:30 but there was an emergency surgery so she is on hold for a  little while. Please continue to keep Sydney in your prayers for today's procedures. Pray also that she will adjust well to her vest application. It will be very different for her but SO much better than this! Please pray for the emergency surgery as well. We often lose sight of others, let's remember how blessed we truly are, especially if we have Christ.

"Trust in the LORD with all your heart,and do not lean on your own understanding."
Proverbs 3:5 ESV

In Christ,
Sandy

"But Simon's wife's mother lay sick of a fever, and anon they tell Him of her."—Mark 1:30.

ERY interesting is this little peep into the house of the Apostolic Fisherman. We see at once that household joys and cares are no hindrance to the full exercise of ministry, nay, that since they furnish an opportunity for personally witnessing the Lord's gracious work upon one's own flesh and blood, they may even instruct the teacher better than any other earthly discipline. Papists and other sectaries may decry marriage, but true Christianity and household life agree well together. Peter's house was probably a poor fisherman's hut, but the Lord of Glory entered it, lodged in it, and wrought a miracle in it. Should our little book be read this morning in some very humble cottage, let this fact encourage the inmates to seek the company of King Jesus. God is oftener in little huts than in rich palaces. Jesus is looking round your room now, and is waiting to be gracious to you. Into Simon's house sickness had entered, fever in a deadly form had prostrated his mother-in-law, and as soon as Jesus came they told Him of the sad affliction, and He hastened to the patient's bed. Have you any sickness in the house this morning? You will find Jesus by far the best physician, go to Him at once and tell Him all about the matter. Immediately lay the case before Him. It concerns one of His people, and therefore will not be trivial to Him. Observe, that at once the Saviour restored the sick woman; none can heal as He does. We may not make sure that the Lord will at once remove all disease from those we love, but we may know that believing prayer for the sick is far more likely to be followed by restoration than anything else in the world; and where this avails not, we must meekly bow to His will by whom life and death are determined. The tender heart of Jesus waits to hear our griefs, let us pour them into His patient ear.

One more day......

of  traction(that's the plan)! That means at least 2 more "turns". Tomorrow she will have her femur pins removed and her halo vest anchored. She'll have this done in the OR and will be sedated. Her turns are going okay considering that she has a very long incision not to mention a newly constructed spine. Please pray that the remaining turns go well and most importantly that alignment isn't altered. Syd is resting right now (face down) watching Enchanted. They are still in the process of adjusting and weaning some meds. She should be able to go to a regular room tomorrow after her halo vest. We have a room at the Ronald McDonald House! It's absolutely amazing. We are so blessed to be able to have the whole family together. It's good for all of us. A praise indeed. Chad met a family yesterday that was just moving in, they plan to be here for 6 months to a year. I don't know their names but keep them in prayer. Remember God IS in control.


"fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God;I will strengthen you, I will help you,  I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."
Isaiah 41:10 ESV

In Christ,
Sandy

Watching....

Max and Ruby. Relaxing and just waiting for Daddy and the kids.We have a room at the Ronald McDonald house! So we'll get to be together everyday, what a blessing! She'll be "turning" for the 1st time about 4pm.
Thankful for Christ,
Sandy

tube is out.....

doing fine! Thank God!

Praise The Lord!

Sydney is doing fabulous! By the grace of God! I won't go into too many details as I know Dad and Pastor Mike have been keeping everyone updated. But for those that are keeping up with the blog.....Surgery went well!! Both surgeons were pleased with  the outcome yesterday. Sydney is awake and responding beautifully. Her right leg is slowly waking up:) She is resting as comfortable as one can while in halo traction and waiting for her breathing tube to be removed. After that they'll let her rest for a while before her 1st post op "turn". Thanks to everyone for all of your prayers. Sydney's post op x rays are amazing! Maybe someday we'll share some before and after pics.
With love and prayers.

Praising God........

Thankful for Christ,
Sandy

This Morning's Meditation

C. H. Spurgeon

---

"On mine arm shall they trust."—Isaiah 51:5.

N seasons of severe trial, the Christian has nothing on earth that he can trust to, and is therefore compelled to cast himself on his God alone. When his vessel is on its beam-ends, and no human deliverance can avail, he must simply and entirely trust himself to the providence and care of God. Happy storm that wrecks a man on such a rock as this! O blessed hurricane that drives the soul to God and God alone! There is no getting at our God sometimes because of the multitude of our friends; but when a man is so poor, so friendless, so helpless that he has nowhere else to turn, he flies into his Father's arms, and is blessedly clasped therein! When he is burdened with troubles so pressing and so peculiar, that he cannot tell them to any but his God, he may be thankful for them; for he will learn more of his Lord then than at any other time. Oh, tempest-tossed believer, it is a happy trouble that drives thee to thy Father! Now that thou hast only thy God to trust to, see that thou puttest thy full confidence in Him. Dishonour not thy Lord and Master by unworthy doubts and fears; but be strong in faith, giving glory to God. Show the world that thy God is worth ten thousand worlds to thee. Show rich men how rich thou art in thy poverty when the Lord God is thy helper. Show the strong man how strong thou art in thy weakness when underneath thee are the everlasting arms. Now is the time for feats of faith and valiant exploits. Be strong and very courageous, and the Lord thy God shall certainly, as surely as He built the heavens and the earth, glorify Himself in thy weakness, and magnify his might in the midst of thy distress. The grandeur of the arch of heaven would be spoiled if the sky were supported by a single visible column, and your faith would lose its glory if it rested on anything discernible by the carnal eye. May the Holy Spirit give you to rest in Jesus this closing day of the month.

Halo update.....

Sydney will be fitted for a Halo vest. She will keep the halo for 3-6months. She seems okay with that, she just wants to sit up..... We are watching Aristocats and just sharing some laughs. God is good.....Daddy is here! Pastor Matt came for a visit today and that was a lovely surprise! He came bearing gifts too! Thanks so much! And thanks to everyone for the lovely cards. Sydney also got some new "pet shops" today - thank you! Yesterday was also a day of gifts and cards! She also got to talk to Poppy and Neil today! I just can't begin to thank everyone enough. It's good to be loved - indeed! God has blessed us beyond measure. Continue to lift Sydney up in prayer, prayer for her surgeons, nurses, and the entire team that will be caring for her throughout her surgery. May they all feel God's presence during this time. Sydney continues to amaze everyone......the grace of God.
Thank you lord for this precious little girl, you've allowed her to overcome so many things in her life and you continue to do so. We give you praise for her and the miracle that she IS.

Remember, God IS in control.......pray for his hand to guide every hand that touches her. to Him be the glory!
Pray,pray,pray.........

Thankful for Christ,
Sandy

Another Praise!

Sydney's turning this morning well - actually the best one yet - she didn't even cry! Thank you Lord! Today seems to be a busy day as SO many people are preparing for surgery tomorrow. Today's day of fasting and prayer is the most important prep! So many mercies seem to come our way and we are so very thankful for each one. Remember, God IS in control. He IS the Great I AM.
 

Thankful for Christ,
Sandy

Praise God!

Tonight's turning for the most part was uneventful! That being said, Sydney stills gets  somewhat emotional during and after the turns. She seems fine now and is ready for night-night. Please continue to pray for these turnings. She gets turned about every 8hrs. She'll be due again around 8am. In case you haven't heard, today is a day of prayer and fasting for Sydney in light of her surgery tomorrow.

Thankful for Christ,
Sandy

Halo......

will be on longer than we expected - Syd's surgeon said it would be on at least 48hrs. post-op, maybe longer. Sydney really had her heart set on getting it removed Wednesday(everyone did), she was very tearful when she found out. But Dad and the kids got here just in time and really took her mind off things. Dad was here for the afternoon turning, having him here for that is always a blessing. Overall her turn went well but still traumatic for her. Sydney had A LOT of mail today! Thanks to everyone that has sent a card or gift. Sydney was so excited to open her things today! Please continue to lift her up in prayer, specifically for her surgery on Wednesday(9:00) and in the meantime that her turnings will go as smooth as possible.


In Christ,
Sandy

Thanks!

To those of you that have left comments! Sydney really enjoys them - they make her smile! Thanks again! Last night's flip was tough but this morning's went well - thank God! Sydney is watching PBS kids and has finished her 1st Pediasure of the day. Thank you for your prayers and kind words. God is good..........


Thankful for Christ,
Sandy

The Bible

Let the Bible, the whole Bible, and nothing but the Bible, be the rule of our faith and practice. Holding this principle, we travel upon the king’s highway. The road may sometimes seem narrow, and our faith may be severely tried, but we shall not be allowed greatly to err. Departing from this principle we enter on a pathless wilderness. There is no telling what we may be led to believe or do. Forever let us bear this in mind. Here let us cast anchor. Here let us abide.

 J.C. Ryle

waiting....

to be turned.....watching  Toy  Story 3. Considering that Syd is in Halo traction, she's doing exceptionally well! If you don't know what Halo is - Sydney has a large "halo" literally screwed into her head, she has pins (rods) inserted through her knees. Along with that she has weights on each end of her bed. She can not sit up. She is completely flat. She must be turned every 8 hours that means the entire bed is turned. They make a "sandwich" out of Sydney and then "flip" the beds. When I say that she is doing well, I really mean it. God has been gracious to see her through this difficult time. We are blessed indeed. Please leave some encouraging words....it was so good to sit and read through a few comments, it was really nice for her to hear. Thank you....And for those that have sent gifts and cards, thank you!

Thankful for Christ,
Sandy

suffering.....

"One of God's gifts to us in suffering is that we see and experience depths of his Word that a life of ease would never yield."

John Piper
Desiring God

Sleeping....

after a day of visiting! Dad brought the kids to spend the day! Granddad and Granny also stopped by for a visit. Syd had an easier time with her turnings today which is a blessing! Thank God.Please continue to lift Sydney up in prayer. It's really a miracle to see how well she has responded to this "treatment". Only by the grace of God! Speaking of grace - God sends it my way just when I need it the most - thank you Lord......

In Christ,
Sandy

A blessed day!

Sydney has had a good day! We were all together again! What a blessing! Daddy,Mommy,Neil,Cole,Haley,Sydney,Lainey Beth, and Noah! We were all packed in the hospital room wih Poppy, JC, and Irene and it was wonderful! It was SO good to be with the rest of the kids and I know Sydney was glad to have them too!She's been eating(drinking) more today, Pediasure and milkshakes. Her attitude continues to be phenomenal and her pain minimal.Please continue to lift her up in prayer. If you're reading this post, please leave a comment for Sydney, I'm sure she would enjoy some encouraging words.

Love and prayers.........


Thankful for Christ,
Sandy

Praise God!

I'm just now getting around to an update but I know that Dad has kept you posted a bit. Sydney is AMAZING! Just another way that God has blessed us. Please know however this is NOT to be taken lightly. Sydney is in traction - her halo is weighted as well as her legs. She is and will be immobile until after her surgery. She is tolerating this beautifully. And we are so very thankful to God. A BIG thank you to mine Shana for Sydney's day of prayer! What a blessing. A new prayer request to add along with Sydney, a little boy named Caleb(13 mo. old), he and his mommy were in an accident, she's been told that he will be paralyzed. Please lift them up in prayer along with Sydney.

With love and gratitude.......



Thankful for Christ,
Sandy

The Logic of Fearlessness

by John Piper | August 13, 2011

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Paul told the Philippians that living worthy of the gospel of Christ meant fearlessness before enemies.

Only let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ . . . not frightened in anything by your opponents (Philippians 1:27-28).

Then he gave the logic of fearlessness.

For it has been granted to you that for the sake of Christ you should not only believe in him but also suffer for his sake (Philippians 1:29).

The logic is this:
God has given you two gifts, not just one: Faith and suffering. That’s what verse 29 says.
In this context that means: Both your faith in the face of suffering, and your suffering are gifts of God. When Paul says, don’t be frightened by your opponents he had two reasons in his mind why they don’t need to be frightened:

1. One reason is that the opponents are in the hand of God. Their opposition is a gift from God. He governs it. That’s the first point of verse 29.
2. And the other reason not to be afraid is that your fearlessness, that is, your faith, is also in the hand of God. It too is a gift. That is the other point of verse 29.

So the logic of fearlessness in the face of adversity is this double truth: Both your adversity and your faith in the face of adversity are gifts of God.
Why is this called “living worthy of the gospel of Christ” (v. 27)? Because the gospel is the good news that Christ’s blood of the covenant infallibly obtained for all his people the sovereign working of God to give us faith and to govern our enemies — always for our eternal good.
Therefore, fear not. Your adversaries can do no more than God grants. And he will grant you the faith you need. These promises are blood bought and sealed. Gospel promises.

John Piper
Desiring God

"do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

Philippians 4:6-7 ESV

update....

they were unable to get Syd on the OR schedule for tomorrow, she'll have surgery Wed. the 24th.......

A praise.......

Yes - I am posting this as a praise. A praise to God for what He is doing. After Sydney was tapered off of her steroids we noticed considerable changes in her right side. Especially today.  Today I wondered if she would  be able to make it until the 31st. Of course God already knew what was going on. The nurse called to let us know that Sydney will have surgery tomorrow ~ 12:30 for HALO traction.  After reviewing her CT scan, her surgeons would like for her to have traction about 7 days prior to surgery. This will require a hospital stay. She will stay until after her back surgery and recovery. God is good, He is in control, He is God. Please continue to lift Sydney up in prayer. May we always be mindful to place our sufferings at the foot of the cross. As we look up  we'll find that our temporal sufferings and burdens on this earth pale in comparison. I am thankful for my Savior today.........
"I can do all things through Him who strengthens me"
Phil. 4:13

In Christ,
Sandy

Grace is provided...

And they gave to him wine mingled with myrrh to drink: but he refused it. {Mark 15:23}
A golden truth is couched in the fact that the Saviour put the myrrhed wine cup from his lips. On the heights of heaven the Son of God stood of old, and as he looked down upon our globe he measured the long descent to the utmost depths of human misery; he added up the sum total of all the agonies which expiation would require, and did not abate a jot. He solemnly determined that to offer a sufficient atoning sacrifice he must go the whole way, from the highest to the lowest, from the throne of highest glory to the cross of deepest woe. This myrrhed cup, with its stupefying influence, would have kept him from the utmost limit of misery, therefore he refused it. He would not stop short of all he had undertaken to suffer for his people. Ah, how many of us have pined after reliefs from our grief which would have been injurious to us! Reader, did you never pray for a discharge from hard service or suffering with a petulant and wilful eagerness? Providence has taken from you the desire of your eyes with a stroke. Say, Christian, if it had been said, “If you so desire it, that loved one of yours shall live, but God will be  dishonoured,” could you have put away the temptation, and said, “Your will be done?” Oh, it is sweet to be able to say, “My Lord, if for other reasons I need not suffer, yet if I can honour you more by suffering, and if the loss of my earthly all will bring you glory, then so let it be. I refuse the comfort, if it stands in the way of your honour.” Oh, that we thus walked more in the footsteps of our Lord, cheerfully enduring trial for his sake, promptly and willingly putting away the thought of self and comfort when it would interfere with our finishing the work which he has given us to do. Great grace is needed, but great grace is provided.

C.H. Spurgeon
Morning and Evening

opportunity......

to live out our faith....

Sydney has been scheduled for surgery August 31st.Her sleep study and pulmonary appts. have indeed been moved up - August 29th for both. Next week she will have her pre-op physical. She's excited about her surgery - she's ready to walk again:) She really misses riding her bike too. The next few weeks will be very busy as we prepare for surgery and recovery. But today her very best friend in the whole world is coming to see her, and she's very excited about that! And we are very thankful for the love God has shown us through His people. God IS good and He IS in control. Please continue to keep us in your prayers.

Thankful for Christ,
Sandy

just a few updates....

Syd will have a CT scan today. She's also been scheduled for a sleep study, PFTs and pulmonary exam Sept. 25th but  that will probably be moved up, I doubt that they'll want to wait that long. On a bright note we started school the 15th!  1st grade for Sydney! So far so good:) Please continue to keep her in your prayers. Thanks and blessings.....

Thankful for Christ,
Sandy

updates, praise, and prayers.....

"A rock and a hard place" - that's where Sydney's doctors have found themselves. The progression of spinal curvature along with the massive tumor involvement has really left them no other choice than surgery at this point. Ultimately however it was up to us to decide and after much prayer we were in agreement with their plan of treatment. We truly felt at peace about that decision yesterday. We know that she is in God's hands and He has blessed us with wonderful and skilled surgeons to care for her. But all of that being said, this is not a surgery to be taken lightly. This is not a surgery to cure Sydney. This is not a surgery to remove tumors. This is a surgery that will hopefully halt further progression of curvature (for now) and  hopefully she will regain more use of her right side after recovery. The massive tumor involvement along with her pectus make this a risky surgery. Please continue to pray for Sydney, for us, and her doctors. She will be scheduled in the next few weeks. We continue to thank and praise God for all that HE has already done and will do. Our plans can NEVER compare to His. To Him be the glory......

With love and prayers.......

Thankful for Christ!
Sandy

update....

Just to let you know we've narrowed down Syd's pain source to her right knee (only when she uses the stairs), So until further notice we're helping her up and down. That being said there is still a considerable change in her gait but she seems to be compensating well. Her attitude is simply phenomenal! We could all learn so much from her. We are scheduled for appts. with Genetics and Ortho along with xrays.  Aug.19th unless something changes. Please keep her in your prayers...speedy healing would be great:) To God be the glory!
Blessings.....


In Christ,
Sandy

prayers......

No news is good news right? Things have been pretty routine here since my last post in February. Just until a few weeks ago everything was about the same - nothing new. I had actually postponed scheduling Sydney's routine check up just so we could enjoy the summer without any Dr. appts. Works for me! But sadly in the past few weeks we have noticed some more changes in posture, this time more so than last. Makes sense considering  the news we received at the last appt. but still not something we feel ready for.Can you ever be ready for the fact that your child might not be able to walk? Sydney is starting to limp and has just in the last 2 days complained of pain in her right leg.She NEVER complains. She's also had a few falls, nothing serious but falls just the same. So again I wonder if we've enjoyed this "healthy" time. I certainly hope that this will be a temporary thing and that there is no further progression - please pray that with me. We'll be going back to the children's hospital soon to see what's going on. I must continue to praise and thank God for everything that He has done and will continue to do in and through our lives. With much love....

In Christ,
Sandy

My apologies......

We celebrated Sydney's 7th birthday Feb 9th. can't believe she's 7....We spent the night Tuesday and for Syd's birthday we went to the Creation Museum (if you haven't been - GO) It's really amazing! We have SO many people praying for Sydney. That's a blessing! But as I've mentioned to people in conversation...FIRST and foremost offer up thanksgiving to God for what he has already done for Sydney. ONLY God could give her the life and health that she enjoys! She spent most of yesterday riding her bike! ONLY God!

In Christ,
Sandy

God's Hands

That's where we are(always have been). To make a very long story as short as possible......The ortho surgeon told us that basically the tumor has replaced spinal tissue -  a lot of tissue.There is simply no place to anchor any growth rods, there is nothing to attach them to. It's truly unbelievable to see the films and to know the extent of tumor involvement it engulfs everything. to quote her surgeon, "no human can fix this". Hard words to hear, hard pictures to see. God is still God and He is still good, and we remain only in His hands.......

In Christ,
Sandy

Long time no speak.......

It's been a LONG time since my last post. 1st off Sydney is doing great! Praise God!We continue to have ups and downs just like anyone, adopted or not. But it seems that I tend to stress more over Syd's because she is adopted. I guess I think it's my fault(sometimes it is), sometimes I think it's just adoption related, and more often than not I just fail to see it as what it is - that is, it's just kid stuff, no different from anyone else.

Sydney is getting ready to celebrate her 7th birthday! I can't believe that she will be 7! She is finishing Kindergarten this year and doing well. We have days that it seems like nothing is clicking and have to sit back and just take a few days off. Usually she comes back and is right on target. And that's where we are now.

After several appts. late last year we had been led to believe that the 1st of a series of surgeries/interventions would likely start soon after the new year. So we wait and wait and finally news..... the 1st plan was to repair her concave chest, to make room for her lungs and spinal cord. This would require a six month recovery time before any spinal  traction or surgery. I guess that's too long to wait for the spine (her curvature is greater than 90 degrees) So anyway we have an appt. for Feb. 8th to discuss/schedule her spinal surgery. I guess were not trying traction 1st???? No details right now, we'll know more after the 8th.

Please continue to keep Syd in your prayers. Our God is much bigger than any of this. His hand has been upon her from the beginning, and I find so much peace knowing that He is in control!

With love and prayers....
In Christ,

Sandy