Mom....I just threw-up

When our kids were babies, we swore we had the BEST sleepers.  They all 3 slept through the night in a very short time frame.  Never a peep, oh how we bragged :)  Then something happened, my dad came and spent the night and he heard Stone crying at  2AM.  Strange, because I (even with monitor two inches from my head and on the highest volume) never heard him.  Basically after that night we realized our babies probably weren't the best sleepers, we were.  Luckily no baby has ever died from crying.  I know we will be the house where all the sleepovers occur because our kids will quickly realize we hear NOTHING in our sleep (that is why the alarm will always be set and the code will be shared with ZERO of our kids).  Poor Makayla last night woke me up in the middle of the night to tell me she had thrown-up.  I felt bad because I did not hear her (and I know when I am sick I want the entire house sitting there consoling me) and she was so sweet and sad all at the same time.  In the morning when I called my sister, we figured out that her son, too had thrown-up and ironically enough they threw-up the same thing-chocolate peanut butter ice cream.  So with our best medical engine search, we determined slight case of food poisoning (who needs medical school when you have web md).

"Didn't you know that I had to be in my Father's house?"  Luke 2:49

This verse was in my bible study yesterday and oh how it applies to me (in more than one case).  If I am EVER lost, find my dad-he will either be with me or know where I am.  Not much in my life happens that he does not know about.  I know, Jesus just had to feel that way, too.  God knew where he was at all times.  And now he knows where I am at all times; reading people magazine (when I should be reading the bible), talking to my sister (when I should be reading the bible), day dreaming at church (when I really should be paying attention...you get my drift.  God knows, even if you don't tell him, he knows.  How nice to know I can talk and share with someone, who already knows exactly what I am going through :)  Lucky for me, being with my dad is a shining example of being with Christ.   

Ewwwww Gross

What happens when I have no babysitter and I am home alone on a Friday after the kids go to bed, I get on the computer and see things like Miley Cyrus' new video.  Before I go any further, I must say I understand that entertainers, athletes, musicians, movie stars, etc do not ask to be role models, but let's face it, they are. Like it or not, they chose their profession and the knew what came along with it.  A platform to change, inspire, and motivate hundreds and thousands of kids.  Or they can waste it away.  Sadly, the only ones we ever hear about are the bad.  I remember clear as day when Makayla was 4 and she came home from preschool and said she loved Hannah Montana.  I knew she had never seen the show but I did a little research and she seemed harmless enough.  So we bought in, music videos, cd's, make-up kits, dolls, pajama's, we even scored great concert tickets to see her in Cleveland.  So I know that she is now 17 and in Hollywood that must be like 30 but her new video is more like something men pay for on one of those XXX sites (at least I am assuming).  I was stunned and sad all at the same time.  Sad because I know hundreds and thousands of teenage girls will now think that sort of behavior is okay.  My heart aches for her as she is growing up way too fast and my heart aches for Makayla as she will never again be allowed to watch her show :)

With eyes wide open to the mercies of God, I beg you my brothers, as an act of intelligent worship, to give him your bodies, as a living sacrifice, consecrated to him and acceptable by him.  Don't let the world around you squeeze you into its own mould, but let God re-mould your minds from within, so that you may prove in practice that the plan of God for you is good, meets all his demands and moves towards the goal of true maturity.  Romana 12:1-2

I am still working out, not losing any weight but losing my breakfast after I run around for 20 minutes :)

Gray?

Sisters are great, right?  If you have an older sister (like me) your relationship probably went a little something like this; You were born, they were mad at you.  You got a new toy, they destroyed it.  You wanted to play with them, they asked you to be the goalie then drilled balls at you.  You asked them to do your hair, they shaved your bangs off.  You "borrowed" their favorite sweater (accidently got ketchup all over it), they got you in trouble.  You followed them around, they walked faster.  She leaves for college, you suddenly become the oldest.  You have major dilemma, she has advice.  You meet boy, she thinks he's weird, but still agrees to be maid of honor :)  You have baby (and have NO idea what you are doing), she takes your call at 2AM.  You need help, she's the first one there.  You are looking at your dark hair in the mirror, she points out your first gray hair.....

"And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou are careful and troubled about many things; But one thing is needful; and Mary has chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her. "
Luke 10:41

So sometimes I am Mary and sometimes my sister is Martha, we switch, which is good because really who needs two Mary's in one family?

GO TO BED

I am wondering why when these words are spoken, my kids look at me like I am speaking German.  You would think after the same routine for their entire lives, they would know what to expect.  We even have a coo-coo clock so they know when it chirps a certain number of times, it's time for bed, but regardless each and every night, I put them in bed then sit in the room below the boys and listen to them play, giggle and talk.  I must say that although I would like for them to fall fast asleep, some of my favorite memories are from the bed time routine (or lack there of).  Stone is the best, regardless if it is nap or bedtime, it never fails that he needs something at least 5 times (does that count for exercise since I have to go up and down the steps each time he yells for me?...hmmmm I am adding that to my operation get rid of jiggle).  Tonight for example, he had to tell me, "David threw a giant rock at Gargamell and knocked him over but that wasn't nice", then he called me two minutes later to tell me, "Mom, Kanon keeps laughing at me and that's why I can't sleep", and the best one was "Mom, I need to tell you that Quinn brought snack today to preschool".

Saul said to David, "Go, and the Lord be with you"  1 Samuel 17:37

When I prayed tonight with Makayla we asked that God always be in her heart and that she knows with him she can do anything but without him she can do nothing.  As I was praying with her, I realized I need to remind myself of that.  Sometimes the world gets in the way of what I have on my to-do list but isn't it funny how nothing ever gets in the way of your to-don't list....hmmmmm...does anyone have a to-don't list?  I am starting one right now....

Found

Today and yesterday the rain has decided to come and not go away.  Although, I know the grass, plants and all the other thirsty outdoor living organisms need it (see it did pay to repeat biology 101-not by choice but look it paid off), I do not like the rain.  I should say I like it fine, if I am inside, curled up on the couch with nothing better to do reading People and watching Young and the Restless, but that is not my life now,  so the rain just gets in the way.  Besides the fact that Central Ohio drivers forget how to drive when the roads get wet, transporting kids in and out of school in the rain is not fun (nor is being a frizz head).  So you can see I am in a great mood today :)  
Mike has been visiting Ohio State football practices twice a week visiting with coaches and learning drills, plays, etc.  This has helped him dramatically.  Even though his headaches are still lingering around, being involved and looking ahead to a career in coaching has motivated him.  He is also helping my dad on the other 5 evenings coach his team.  So basically I am back to semi-single parenting (and counting down the days until the babysitter I am looking for magically appears).  


He draws up the drops of water, which distill as rain to the streams, the clouds pour down moisture and abundant showers fall on mankind.  Job 36:28


Makayla found out yesterday she got a part in the community Christmas production.  This should be interesting, to say the least.  Stone threw something at Kanon last night, gashing his eye, although it was horrible, a good thing happened, Stone felt guilty.  For the first time since Kanon was born, he cried with him and just kept apologizing.  Then before bed I heard him sitting on the potty talking to Jesus, "Jesus please forgive me" he kept saying.  Progress???  Time will tell....

Suicides...

Upon entering my work-out (dreadful) session this morning, Greg "I hate your hamstrings" asks me this "So Koren, do you know what suicides are"  I am smart enough to pause and ponder this question because if I answer too fast he might assume I enjoy them...after sighing and trying to ask about the weather it is quite obvious where my morning is headed.  Outside in the parking lot for all of Dublin, OH to see, me jogging (dragging my body).  Now here is where my relationship with Greg goes south, after the first set of 10 line suicides (yuck), I feel okay thinking I am ready for the second set, I line up and he then decides it's a good time to tell me that the second set will be LUNGES then running back to start.  Okay, I will do a lot of things obediently but LUNGING is not one of them.  I hate lunges for the mere reason that after doing them I can not stand the soreness.  I know I am a big baby but seriously who enjoys this stuff?  Somehow the heavens aligned and I made it (even though Applebee's decided it was a good time to fire up the grill and pollute my air with the smell of baby back ribs, which might I say is not a good smell to have when you are hyperventilating).  Upon completion I felt I deserved a "Great job now you can go" instead I got a "Great job now time for squatting and chasing the medicine ball".  Seriously, I pay for this, not sure why especially since I am still blaming my dryer for my tight jeans, hoping it gets fixed before winter comes.  


The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? Though an army encamp against me, my heart shall not fear; though war rise up against me, yet I will be confident.   Psalm 27:1,3


Now just incase Greg "I hate your hamstrings" has found out about this blog, I must say SLOWLY I am feeling more in shape (very slowly).  Please oh please don't make me give up Chocolate (or tortilla soup, or pizza, or chocolate mint cookie ice cream, or cinnamelts, or any of the other junk that I eat).  

I HEART JONAS :)

Every morning on the way to school the most exciting thing happens, we have a full fledge ROCK concert in our car.  Everyday someone different chooses the song but everyday the same thing happens...Makayla sings, Stone drums, Kanon has air guitar and Mike and I smile in amusement.  I am thinking of sending one of these videos to the same people that represent the Jonas Brothers, but for some reason Furrey Siblings just doesn't have that same catchy ring.

Yesterday, Mike decided to work-out with me.  He was hoping to get some boxing lessons from Greg "I hate your Hamstrings" but Greg thought it was better if he trained with me.  To my surprise, we both had a (horrible) great work-out and I think Mike has a new appreciation for my whining and complaining.  Although, I am pretty sure there are hidden cameras in his gym and one night while I am watching America's Funniest Videos, there I will be desperately trying to do one push-up :)  

My friend had a baby boy on Friday.  The exciting part for me is I get to fill up on some "babyitis".  He's so cute and it just makes me so amazed at how such a thing can be created in your tummy and come out so perfect.  The best part is I get to hold him and give him back :)  People will ask me if we are done having kids and without hesitation Mike and I both shake our heads and say "YES".  

“Every good and perfect gift is from above.” – James 1:17

Loving this weather and excited for a weekend full of football.  I wonder how many other women out there ordered NFL Sunday ticket while their husbands complained about how much it costs?

Tick-Tock

I am wondering why when I need more time, it goes so fast...and when I am wishing it away, it goes so slow.....hmmmmmm.  I feel like lately time is flying by.  I look at my kids and can NOT believe how big they are.  My girlfriend had a baby on Friday and holding him made me realize how fast it really does go.  And then I think about all those (pointless) minutes in Economics class-how I kept looking at the clock wishing the time to speed up and instead it seemed as if it slowed WAY down...why is that?
I am also trying to figure out how to capture this weather and keep it all the time.  If anyone knows of a State that has Ohio's fall year round, please let me know so I can immediately move there (of course the State can NOT have pollen or dust).
The Halloween party I began planning has turned into an all out....money pit.  My husband (needs a day time job) has decided to construct a Haunted House in our basement.  Let me explain, most people are reading this thinking, Oh he must be throwing up a few black sheets and going to jump out and scare someone, well you are wrong, he has invaded Home Depot everyday to purchase every 2x4 they have available-he has not only built actual walls in our basement to form a maze but he has constructed coffins, trap doors, etc....so much for those new Ugg Boots I wanted :)

A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold.  Proverbs 22:1

DWTS tonight, how weird that I am excited for this.  It gives me something to be disgusted by, entertained by and inspired by (Karina's legs) all at once.

ISOPURE

Okay so today I realized my last few posts have NOT posted...ughhhh very annoying because I must say it was some of my finer work :)
Last week, Operation Get Rid of Jiggle, resulted in two things; 1) me realizing I did not want Mike to be my trainer 2) me gaining weight instead of losing.  After working out with Mike, I decided it was not so good that he knew how weak I was and that I whine a lot (for some reason he does not enjoy hearing me complain).  Also I was not so crazy about having to do everything he said :)  So I found a trainer whose name happens to be Greg "I hate your hamstrings" Janikowski.  After a couple visits with him I have realized Operation Get Rid of Jiggle is going to take a lot more effort than I had originally planned.  He not only wants me to work-out numerous days a week, he expects me to drink protein shakes and eat healthy....ughhhhhh what's next Muscle Milk?  Today after our session I decided to visit Whole Foods (a great place to feel as if you are being healthy even if you are not).  Of course, I went right past the healthy crap to their wonderful bakery.  Seriously they have the BEST desserts and breads I have ever seen.  After carefully selecting my unhealthy chocolate mousse dessert and my (it has to be low carb) bread, I hear a voice in my head "THAT IS NOT GOOD FOR YOU".  My first thought was, God was trying to save me from the extra time on the treadmill but then I realized lovely Greg "I hate your hamstrings" was behind me.  He and his wife had decided to do lunch at Whole Foods.  Quickly I tried to cover the Chocolate Mousse with the bananas but I was busted.  Ughhhhhhhhhhh

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law" Galatians 5:22-23

So what is Isopure you are thinking...well it's the Low Carb Protein Shake I drank two ounces of this morning before I gagged and shoved in a cereal bar :)  

Lemon Burst Frosting

This is day 3 of Operation Get Rid of Jiggle.  So far I have completed two work-outs.  Needing immediate results I stepped on my scale this morning only to find I have gained 2 pounds.  Thinking "How is that possible" my annoying conscience reminds me I ate Ben and Jerrys Chocolate Mint Cookie ice cream and I accidently walked into Cheryl and Co at the mall, which lead to me accidentally eating a frosted Lemon Burst cookie.  After looking down at the scale and remembering how good the cookie was, I decided it was fine because really what is 2 pounds :)  Today though I have to go back to the mall to buy new jeans because suspiciously the heat in my dryer has gone to extremes and shrunk all my jeans from last year.  

Mike is still having the dreaded head aches.  His short term memory is getting a little better but he is still having some trouble sleeping.  I on the other hand am having no trouble sleeping, only bending and walking (thanks to Mike).  I still can not understand those  girls on the elliptical machines bopping all around that look like they are having fun.  Mike says I sound like a tennis player grunting every time he tells me to do something.  And who in the world can exercise with their hair down in their face?  Also not sure who invented "YOGA" pants but clearly it was someone who does a LOT more yoga than I do, those pants are not flattering and I am not sure what kind of underwear you are suppose to wear with them but it's definitely not the ones I have.

For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control

2 Timothy 1:7

We are also on the second disk of Lost Season Six.  Now if you enjoy being confused and watching TV while having NO idea what is going on, then you should also watch this.  

Labor Day

After 7 years of marriage I finally woke-up today and realized I live with a physically fit, exercise fanatic, who could probably help me (a little bit).  So why not start Labor Day off with some good, fine, labor.  After searching for the perfectly cute outfit to wear (this took a long time and entailed emptying a couple drawers of clothes onto the floor which now need to be picked up but I am too sore to bend over and get them), I headed for the much dreaded basement where we have a work-out room.  When I originally asked Mike if he could (maybe) help me, he was excited.  I figured he saw it as an opportunity to cause me pain, but he enjoys (weirdo) working-out.  Of course I had to bring my entourage with me (Kanon, Stone, and Tinkerbell), whom all were excited for this new adventure.  First thing out of his mouth, "Put the treadmill on 6 and run for 2.5 minutes"   Whoa, let me go back upstairs and grab a q-tip because I could have sworn he said 6.  "6?"  I ask, "6" he says.  Now right at this moment I realized two things, 1) this wasn't gonna work 2) I should have worn the other t-shirt I threw on the floor because now in this light I realize the other one was much more flattering :)   He then proceeded to ask me to lay on the floor and do crunches, to which I responded, "I need a mat or something soft to lay on" to which he responded "Lay on the bench"......After what he says was 30 minutes (I need to buy my own stopwatch because I think it was an hour)  I can not bend at the knee or move from side to side (I think he secretly is smiling at this).  But I have to say operation "Get rid of the jiggle" has started and I almost didn't eat a chocolate chip muffin pack, which is progress :)

"Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labor, working with his hands
the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth."  Ephesians 4:28


Labor Day is many things besides the day you pack up your white shoes, dresses and pants, it represents the end to summer, a day to celebrate trade and labor organizations, a day to BBQ, and most importantly the start to the first week of the NFL season :)  

Soup

Anyone that really knows me, knows I LOVE soup.  Sometimes I think I could live off of soup (with cheese, crackers, and lots of bread to dip it in).  The strange thing is I crave it more in the summer than the winter.  It also makes me think of my days when I lived in Memphis, TN.  Besides being home to Graceland (my favorite spot to visit) it is also the place I think i grew-up the most.  I only lived there a year but during that one year I realized many things (other than my love for BBQ).  I moved there not knowing anyone.  I was all of 23 years old and nothing beats the memory of me loaded into my Honda Accord ready for an adventure.  I think Memphis is where I learned how to be Koren.  Away from my family, friends, and those who knew me, I could be whatever/whoever I wanted to be.  Now not that there weren't hiccups in Memphis because there were (a southern boy for example or a hot dance club on Beale Street) but I found out how much God loves me in Memphis and how much I love him :)  

I love those who love me, and those who seek me find me.   Proverbs 8:17


Strangely enough, Memphis is also where I fell in LOVE with Mike.  He would call me on the phone and we really got to know each other (now those of you that really know me, also know there were some MAJOR bumps in the road that lead to me marrying Mike-but for blog's sake, I will spare you).  Thanks Memphis, I will always say Y'All and smile because of you!  

First Day of School

Today is Makayla's first day of school.  She was so excited.  Last night we practiced how our morning would go and when I woke-her up bright and early at 6:30 this morning she said mom, "It's my first morning as a first grader".  After perfecting her uniform (not sure I can handle all the pressure of making sure to follow all the guidelines-now I know why Sarah Jessica Parker flipper her skirt around in Girls Just Wanna Have Fun), my dad came over to see her.  She was beaming, I just do not remember ever being that excited for school.  Somehow we managed to get her there on time which is a miracle in itself :)  The school was over flowing with excitement-everyone in new shoes, new uniforms, hair brushed just right, tan skin and beaming with excitement-I couldn't help but wonder if I would find the same excitement in February?  Her teacher is adorable-all 27 years of her.  I am anxious to go pick her up!!!
This week has been one of ultra-soft kleenex (with lotion).  My nose has decided it's time to erupt and without warning, mind you, launched a full force monsoon.  Regardless of the fact that I now sound like Fran Drescher, I feel horrible.  I just need to stop at CVS and buy a new nettie pot-if I remember correctly that will solve all my problems :)

When I am afraid, I will trust in you.  In God, whose word i praise, in God I trust; I will not be afraid.  What can mortal man do to me?  Psalm 56:3-4

Mike is still the same, headaches and short term memory issues.  The good thing for him is he has an excuse now to get out of anything he doesn't want to do.
Me:  Mike, don't you remember I said we had parent open house tonight?  Mike:  no, I lost my memory remember
Me:  Mike, remember tonight is the bachelor pad, set the DVR, Mike:  Oh I forgot, remember I lost my memory.
Mike:  What are all these shopping bags in our closet?   Me:  Oh remember sweetie you told me to go shopping and spend LOTS of money on myself?

Meet The Teacher

Last night was so much fun.  Mike and I got to go to my dad's high school football game.  Besides the fact that we did get a babysitter, it was the first time in 8 years that we could go and not have to then drive 3-8 hours back to where we lived.  My dad's team is young and this is his second year at the school so we really were not sure what to expect but it was a great crowd (slightly quiet though) and his team fought hard-they lost but they did not give up.  I know my dad was up all night, I got emails from him at 1:41 and 4:15 AM.  He loves what he does so I know he hates to lose.  I had fun cheering (screaming my head off) and Scotte who was once our "Manny" was there so we enjoyed talking (telling him what to do).  
Poor Mike is still having headaches.  I can not imagine this because I have a headache for an hour and I can not function.  He has had this throbbing, pounding headache now 24 hours a day for 4 weeks.  I think if he could just get a good night sleep it would help him but with the pressure in his head he can not sleep.  
Today we get to go to Makayla's new school and meet her teacher, Mrs. Stewart (as she hopes a lady who is somehow related to Miley Stewart on the Hannah Montana Show).  The cutest thing is I showed her the teachers picture on the schools website, and she said "Well she looks good but not as good as Mrs. Haase" For those of you who don't know Makayla LOVES LOVES LOVES her kindergarden teacher.  I think they will always be connected somehow.  She then proceeded to ask me if Mrs. Stewart knew as much as Mrs. Haase, because Mrs. Haase knows everything, like how to tell time and how to count to 100, how to teach manners, how to cough into her elbow.  I think she is nervous for her new school but I know she is excited to meet some friends and start learning all the fun things 1st graders learn (still can NOT believe she is going to 1st grade).  


"Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom"  Luke 12:32


Tonight Mike is speaking at Half-Time of the Gridiron Classic.  It is exciting because it is a game between two public high schools and they want him to share his faith :)  

Walking

The dreaded work-out room in my basement has been quietly calling my name.   Yesterday, I finally could not ignore it anymore (it might have been the chicken salad and chicken enchiladas ).  I decided to exercise or at least walk on the treadmill.   After the electrical socket regained conscience after being used, the treadmill started (I was hoping it was broken but realized dust does not break a machine).  What some of you call relaxing and fun, I think of more as torture and cruelty.  In my teenage years and volleyball days, I didn't mind the occasional visit to the gym but since 2000 me and exercise do not mesh.  I guess one decade is long enough so I will start again (unless of course my metabolism returns then I will go back to normal-which by the way if you see my metabolism anywhere please send it back).
Mike visited yet another neurologist yesterday.  They have decided to keep him on just two pills a day (i can live with that) and check back with him in a month.  They think his headaches and nausea could last up to 4 more months.  After going back through his history they found he had 7 documented concussions since 1999.  This Doctor told him if he had not already been told, there is no way he could risk playing again.  Mike felt good to know more than one doctor felt the same way.

So Jesus said to them, "For a little while longer the Light is among you. Walk while you have the Light, so that darkness will not overtake you; he who walks in the darkness does not know where he goes. "While you have the Light, believe in the Light, so that you may become sons of Light."  John 12:35-36

Headaches

Mike is home :)  Yay for me!!!  I was up for the challenge of "single" parenting this season but when the news came that Mike would get to come home and stay,  I was jumping up and down with joy!  Now if only his headaches would go away.   We met Friday with the Columbus Blue Jackets team Doctor.  He was wonderful and seemed like he would be able to help Mike find relief.  He is sending him to a neurologist on Monday for more testing and scans.  His nausea is also very bothersome but most concerning to me is his short term memory loss.
Mike or I either one are big "pill" poppers.  I especially am against tylenol (or similar) because I have always felt once you start popping those pills you have to keep taking them every time you get an ache or a pain (now I won't lie, in my old age Midol has become like a friend to me).  You should see the drugs in our house right now-I think Lindsay Lohan is requesting to stop by here on her way home from Rehab to fill up :)  It makes me laugh that most of the Doctors Mike has seen wanted to fill him with so many drugs that his symptoms would be masked not cured.

Wives, be subject to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord.  Husbands, love your wives, and do not be harsh with them.  Colossians 3:18-19


Saturday now becomes only known as the "day after high school football".  Last night we all went to my dad's scrimmage.  It was so fun to be there as a family.  I told Makayla next year she can be the water girl (after me explaining for 10 minutes what a water girl was and that I was the water girl for Papa's team when I was her age) and she had one question "Can the water girl wear pink"

Thank You!!!

Over the last couple of days, I have received a tremendous amount of emails, texts, notes, and phone calls (I would say voice mails but I purposefully have no voice mail-sorry I know that frustrates some of my friends).  I realized I have an awesome support network, just another of the many blessings I have in my life.  In the realm of the world, never playing football again seems minor, in the realm of Mike's world, it is major.  I think we both assumed he would be done, but just maybe if he wanted to he could go back, next year, in two years, maybe like Brett Favre when he is a grandpa :)  But when the Doctors told him he could never play again, those words hit him hard.  Football has been more than a job to him.  From 1992 until now it has been his morning, noon, and night (I guess I have him beat b/c my love affair with football started at birth when my dad brought his team into the nursery to stare at me-but wait I was born very close to 1992 so it's even).  And when we look back at all the joy football has brought into our lives, we feel so lucky to get 8 seasons in the NFL-Mike had an amazing journey and I just know what is coming next, is even more amazing.  
So this morning, after Stone drilled me with a stuffed dog on the side of the head, I woke up very thankful for many things but today I feel most thankful for my friends.  I hope now, I can be an even better friend (hopefully one whose address won't change twice a year).

"My command is this:  Love each other as I have loved you.  Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends."  John 15:12-13

Thank you!  Thank you!  Thank you!

The Waiting Game...

I have no idea if anyone is even reading this but I have learned that writing is a great therapy for me.   Now if only I could strike a book deal or something then all my countless minutes would pay off :)  I am considering stalking celebrities and giving Perez Hilton a run for his money but then I remember I now live in Plain City, Ohio (incase you have never been to Plain City OH they didn't make a mistake when they named it).  I must say though that I am so happy to have a sense of home.  Life in the NFL is one of many things but stability is not one of them.  At any given phone call you can be uprooted and transplanted someplace else (or you can wake up and read about how your husband lost his job in the paper and then proceed to move).  Someone our first year told me to always keep a bag packed.  At the time I thought how silly, after year three I always had two bags packed :)
This season before Mike was even injured we had decided I would stay in Ohio with the kids.   Makayla is starting first grade (not sure if first grade is ready for her but she is ready for it) and she needs some sort of stability.  And the major bonus for me is my parents are next door.  I can say with 100% satisfaction that I am certain I was meant to live next door to my parents (I would choose in the same house but my dad only watches Andy Griffith and I think that would drive us all crazy).   So anyways, this year for me was going to be all about FAMILY.  Little did I imagine Mike would get injured and then find out today that he can not play football anymore.  I have now realized it's not by chance we made the decision to keep me and the kids in Ohio.   As we prayed about it and prayed for a clear answer, God gave us one.  Always listen to those answers, even when they are not what you want.

You Shall eat the fruit of the labour of your hands; you shall be happy, and it shall go well with you.
Psalm 128:2

So today, tomorrow, whenever you can, pray for Mike :)   Whenever someone else makes decisions for us, they are harder to swallow than if we decided on our own.

FAITH

This morning it is extra hard for me to get going.   I am going to a burial service for a precious 7 year old.  It sickens and saddens me to think that such a young life was taken.  At the same time I am amazed at how many lives she touched.  I am positive she brought many to know God during her short time here on Earth.  I know she is in a better place because the Cancer can't get her anymore but I am so sad for her family.   I wish I could do something for them but the only thing they want is their daughter back.  
Mike is back to the Amen Clinic today for his 2nd scan.  Tomorrow he meets again with the team Dr's.   Hoping to have some answers this week.

He said to the woman, "Your Faith has saved you.  Go in peace".  Luke 7:50

Today I will hug my kids a little tighter, let them be a little louder, and I will enjoy them a little more.

AMEN

God works in wondrous ways.  A friend that Mike played with, whom also had concussion related brain issues, suggested we explore some testing at the Amen Clinic in California.  His wife sent me some contact information and I began to explore their website.  The entire time I was reading about what this Dr. and clinic can do I was trying to figure out how I would get Mike to agree to fly to California.  For those of you that do not know, flying is NOT our favorite thing to do.   It has been so bad before that we purchased a new car in FL during a connection and drove all the way back to Michigan just so we did not have to get back on the plane.  After clicking every link on the Amen Clinic website I realized they had two locations, the second was Reston VA.  I immediately went to my best friend, Google, and realized our hotel was less than 10 miles away from that location.  I quickly emailed the Dr. and within a half hour we were at the Clinic and Mike was getting scanned.  He goes back Monday for the 2nd of the exam and hopefully results will soon follow.  What are the chances that a Dr., whose last name just happens to be Amen, would have offices in California and Reston, VA?  Seems pretty slim to me....

Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work; If one falls down, his friend can help him up.  But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up!
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

Thank you friends for all of your prayers and encouraging words!!!
www.amenclinics.com

Brain Brain Go Away...

After spending the day at the Brain and Spinal Hospital in Baltimore, MD I realized many things.   One; sometimes the doctors we choose and trust have their own agendas (it is unfortunate bc there are so many wonderful doctors but like any profession there are a few rotten ones), two; even the "Best" doctors do not know enough about the brain-it is a medical mystery, three; my children are not old enough to go inside the Brain and Spinal Hospital in Baltimore, MD :)
Mike is still having the same symptoms.   It is very scary stuff.  A big issue for me right now is returning him to "normal" health.  The big issue for every doctor we see is returning him to the football field.   This is beyond frustrating.  If there was ever a woman (or young lady as I prefer) that LOVES football, it is I.  I grew up with a pigskin in one hand and a clip board full of plays in the other.  I can read a play book, call a defense and even yell at the TV with the best of them.  I never dreamed that I would discourage a return to the game to anyone, but my time has come.

"For I know the plans I have for you," says the LORD.  "They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. "  Jeremiah 29:11

Is it possible that a TRAIN ran me over while I was sleeping?

This morning I am struggling.   I just want to go back to bed and sleep (as Makayla is still doing) but my boys have other plans for me.   Stone is going to be the person at a sleepover that when he wakes up, so does everyone else.   I have tried to convince him that when he gets up and everyone else is still asleep he can crawl into bed with me, I guess I forgot that crawling into bed for him means, bringing every stuffed animal he owns, hitting me in the head with them one at a time as he chucks them in my bed, waking Kanon up to tell him he is about to get in my bed, turning the TV on and volume up, and then asking me loudly what is for breakfast.  Even in my tired stupor these are some of my best moments with him.  Before  I go any further it is imperative that you know Stone is my "one" that tests me a little bit more and then loves me a little bit more.   He is also the one of my three that can NOT do anything by himself.  His LOVE LANGUAGE is definitely praise because when he does something bad or good he wants EVERYONE to see it and comment on it.  So even though I am super tired, I am beyond thankful that God chose me to be his mom (and that my hair isn't gray yet).   
Today we are driving to Baltimore for another opinion on Mike's brain.  He is still dealing with horrible headaches and his short term memory is not right.  I guess the only positive in this is that by coincidence the NFL media has decided this is the summer to shed light on concussions and the effects.  With that being said everyone involved has been going the extra step to ensure this is handled properly.  Dan Rather did a show last night on hd.net and Real Sports with Bryant Gumble will also talk about concussions in the NFL on Aug. 17.  


Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light. – Matthew 11:28-30


The BIBLE is the only place to find real "sleep" :)  

Take Two of These and Call Me in the Morning...

Again, this morning my boy Kanon wants to hang out at 6:AM.   He really doesn't want to play with me though he uses me to reach his football guys way up high and then he says "Go Mom, Me play football".  I guess this is preparing me for what's to come, right.  When I am the dorky mom in the pick-up line, still in my PJ's, listening to the wrong station, waving and honking when I drop them off for Middle School, and I know they hear me but they pretend not to.   I see that glimpse into my future every once and awhile.  
So Mike is still fighting nausea and having headaches.   They gave him some pills to take last night but I think that's like putting a band-aid on something that needs stitches-unless fixed properly it will never heal. So I worry and I worry.   And the kids, well they continue to keep me on my toes.  As badly as I wanted to watch the Bachelor Pad last night (I know I should go to therapy for that addiction b/c I swear it sucks me in every time) Makayla wanted to dress-up like Glenda the "Good Witch" and I was the "Wicked Witch of the East".   Still trying to determine if that should offend me, I was thinking I would be Auntie Em or Dorothy but no, she said I am more like the Wicked Witch of the East.   Hoping today a house doesn't land on top of me.   


Ezek 16:44
"Everyone who quotes proverbs will quote this proverb about you: "Like mother, like daughter."


And this is my hope, that I am exactly like Makayla b/c there is no sweeter thing to be.  

When you can't sleep, well you can sleep but your kids can't...

So this is day three of hotel living for us.   Mike, my husband, is in training camp for the Washington Redskins.   Last week he got hit hard enough to give him his 5th concussion (2nd bad one in two years).  It was very scary for a bit-he was throwing up repeatedly and was very sick.   They have that part of it under control now but he is still having horrible headaches.   Makes me wonder why I LOVE this sport so much but I do and I will continue to LOVE it, I just might cringe next time my husband goes across the middle.   The jury is still out on if I will let Stone and Kanon play someday (I am sure I will but right now I am totally against it)-I am hoping for now they aspire to play tennis or maybe bocci ball but nothing contact.   So we, well wait, (there was no we it was totally an I) loaded up our kids, 1 of our dogs and my mom to drive to VA to be with Mike.  After 6 hours and 45 minutes of pure bliss (how much longer, change the movie, we already watched that movie, it's my turn to pick the movie, when are we eating, why do I never get to buy toys at the gas station) we arrived at our hotel.  Since then it has seemed as if the hotel gets smaller everyday, the front desk has assured me it's the same size as when we checked in but I swear the walls are moving inward.   Last night the room below us called the Front Desk to complain about us-it was shocking since the boys were jumping up and down non-stop and Makayla was putting on a concert with her best Jonas LA voice.   This morning Kanon wanted to get up at 5:45 and hang-out.   Now as I type this is the exact conversation I hear "You stink" Stone yells, "NO you stink," Makayla says, "Butt" Stone says to which Makayla gives her best "Mom Stone said BUT"
And this is how I get to Daniel 4:36

At the same time that my sanity was restored, my honor and splendor were returned to me for the glory of my kingdom. My advisers and nobles sought me out, and I was restored to my throne and became even greater than before.


Now if only my advisers and nobles would find me :)