What You Don't Know!

Life looks a lot different these days. Each day is a gift, although not every day is pleasant, nonetheless it is cherished.  

Far to long I took life for granted. I didn't realize the extent of my unappreciation until my children became ill. 

A year ago we learned Tharrin was not healthy, we weren't sure to the extent or what was wrong, but we knew something was amiss. After seven specialist and thousands of miles traveled we learned he has two heart  defects (enlarged aortic valve and mitral valve prolapse), connective tissue disease, autoimmune disease (Hashimoto's), and Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome. Then, when Joshua was 18 months old he was diagnosed with Hepatitis C, he also has Sensory Processing Disorder, and Oral Aversion. Learning our kids were sick was devastating to say the least. I spent many days crying, begging God to spare their little lives, researching each diagnosis, and praying endlessly. 

 

Our lives changed forever, I no longer walk upstairs to Tharrin's room thinking about everyday stuff, now I pray each and every time I walk up those stairs that he is alive and well. That is a terrible feeling, but it is my reality. When Tharrin walks out the door, I worry if he will pass out and this time not wake up. He rarely gets to stay overnight with friends anymore, because my anxiety is enormous. He spends entirely too much time at the doctor's instead of being a 17 year old boy. 

Now we add Joshua's issues and even more adjustments are needed. This is hard to believe, but Chad and I haven't had a date in over 3 years. We are not able to sleep in our bed alone, we can't sit and have dinner as a family because Joshua can't tolerate the smell or sight of food. Our sweet boy has severe SPD, it literally controls our entire life, including his. He can't endure bright lights for an extended period of time, loud noises, new environments, any kind of change to his daily routine, large groups of people, food, and so much more. His Hepatitis C is aggressive, he already has stage 2 Fibrosis. Joshua also spends entirely too much time going to the doctor. So, you can imagine each day comes with new challenges. Most days are complete chaos. 

But....... this is the part that gets me fired up. But God! Yes, God still reigns and is in complete control of this chaos. He walks with us each day, He already knows the story, He already won the battle. God is our refuge, He is our strength, He is our strong tower. When times are overwhelming I know where to look, I know this is His perfect plan, and what you don't know, I cherish it all. 

"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." Isaiah 40:31

 

That's a Wrap for 2016!

As we come to a close for 2016, I can't help but to reflect on my year. It has been a great year for me and my family. I see so many friends posting that they are so glad to see 2016 end, and I am sitting here wondering how our new year could be any better.

Let's start with Chad getting a wonderful new job that affords for me to stay home with Joshua. I do still work with Med Maps, but is very limited and only from home. This has been an answered prayer and huge blessing. Chad's work schedule is fabulous, he is off 3 days per week. This allows so much family time; and golf. Although, we do not anticipate that schedule to last, we have certainly enjoyed having him home so much.

We spent 1,000's of miles to see the best doctors in the country to get a million questions answered for Tharrin's health. He is stable and healthier than he has been in a long time. He turned 16, he is driving and working. Tharrin has enjoyed playing basketball and is well enough to do so. He is a remarkable young man and we are so blessed to call him son. He even had a girl over to the house recently, they are just talking! Don't tell him I'm writing about that! hahahaha!!!

Joshua's health gave us a few scares, his liver is damaged and he underwent a liver biopsy.  He continues to attend OT and Feeding therapy each week, and is improving. He is potty trained (hip hip hooray), he communicates exceptionally well, and he was approved for homebound through the school system. He tested above average for his age, which is a huge accomplishment considering all he has been through. Joshua can work a cellphone like a true professional, he may know more about it than we do. He enjoyed trick or treating this year at Grammy and Poppie's, he pretended to be a ghost the entire Halloween season, he unwrapped everyone's Christmas presents, he tells us "sweet dreams" at bedtime and says "I wuv you". He still loves to cuddle before bed!

Tavis is alive, that is a celebration in itself. He gave us a few heart attacks with his wild side, but hopefully he is calming his jets a bit. I can't even believe he is 22 years old, I don't think he believes it either. He really isn't trying to adult just yet. He is working with his dad, and in decision mode as to what is next for him.

Austin is a senior in high school, wow I can't believe it. Austin is so chill!

We got a new puppy this year, which is a real miracle. We purchased a new vehicle as well.

Seems each year is getting better and better, we are so blessed in so many ways. God has been so good to us, He continues to guide our path and protect our steps.

Each year I try to set goals for the next year, after much thought I know exactly what this coming year will consist of.
1. Attend church more regularly (this has been hard for us since Joshua can't be exposed to public)
2. Spend less time on social media and on my phone
3. Volunteer to teach a bible study for a women's sober living house
4. Spend more time in the Word of God
5. Maintain healthy eating, exercise, and weight (no yo yo dieting)

Hope each and everyone of my friends and family enjoy the new year. God Bless!

Christmas 2016

Whooo hoooo is all I can say about Christmas this year. Blessings are overflowing for our family. Chad, Joshua, Tharrin, Tavis, and Austin were all healthy and happy. That was all I wanted for Christmas.

This year we went to Trina's for Christmas eve, her house was beautifully decorated. So much food, more than anyone could ever eat. Presents, presents, and more presents, literally Mary out does herself each and every year. My mother in law is an absolutely gem to the family, she has the best style and taste. We just adore her!

Mack always blesses our food and recognizes the reason for the season, Jesus. What a wonderful man of God he is.

Then my beautiful nieces, they are all so different, but all so wonderful and enjoyable. Joshua can't get enough of the twins.

My bigs try to hid away and watch football. They never get in the middle of the action, I guess that is just how teen boys behave. I remember being their age and being much like that, too cool for the adults. Hahahaha!

The highlight for me was watching Joshua in his new motorized truck, he was so very excited and happy. His little face lit up like a Christmas tree and the joy we all felt watching him was priceless. Also, my favorite thing was just being in the presence of family. They are absolutely a delight to be around.

Christmas 2016 was good to me and mine!