~ for a great week of swag pick up for Tyler Gold Run. I worked with some of the most wonderful volunteers on the planet, and got to see some of my favorite people, even if just behind a mask. So thankful for the incredible support for our virtual event this year, and looking more forward than ever to our (hopefully) in-person event next year!
~ for Sawyer having the opportunity to share the pledges at Chapel. This is a simple privilege that could easily take for granted. Lord, may I never cease to see the miracle in front of my eyes when I see the things the Lord has allowed him to do.
~ for steaming, zesty tortilla soup on the first day of fall.
~ for a full trashcan of hair trimmed from Birdie! She is still a big, puffy orange pom pom dog, but she looks fresh as a daisy with her trim!
~ for more good laughs. During virtual church this morning (yes, we stayed home this week. Josh had to work, and I was not up to a solo effort keeping the 6 little people quiet without children’s church.) Tatum K pointed to our pastor on the tv and said,
“That’s my favorite guy. What’s him name?”
I said, “Brother Joe.”
“Yeah, Brudder Joe. He says he loves me”
And for post it notes. Especially ones that make me giggle like this…
~ for incredibly steady Giddyup & Whoa opportunities! I don’t know that I’ve ever had 18 projects underway all at once before! I am up to my eyeballs in reclaimed wood, and I absolutely love it! The Vintage and Company Fall Barn Sale is coming up in a couple weeks, so if you’re local be sure to come check it out. I have some really special treasures in store. And Jodi‘s collections never disappoints!
~ for my sweet husband coming home with my absolute favorite lunch: a decadent wagu burger and truffle fries from C Rojo‘s.
~ for Tatum K tenderly caring for her “babies.” (Last week it was acorns. This week it’s snails.)
~ for our amazing HERO friend, Aneesa, who has DONE IT AGAIN! You may remember her from last September, when she wrote a letter to her middle school principal asking the school to Go Gold. This year she is a freshman at a new school, Early College High School, and she approached her new principal with the same proposition. They agreed and did a supply drive, collecting items for our parents’ survival kits and the clinic toy closet. They gathered an impressive assortment of items and an additional cash donation of over $400 for Gold Network of East Texas! The principal assured me that this would be a yearly event! Way to go Aneesa!
~ I missed mentioning last week, I was thankful for my first Pumpkin Spice Latte of the season! It never disappoints. Thank you, Gina Sue!
~ for the opportunity to watch some exciting Carthage high school football with some pretty stoked fans.
Some weeks are just kind of a grind. No big trials, just the basic mindless cycle of wash – rinse – repeat. Little snags. Irritations that pile up. Revolving to-do list. Our kiddos have recently settled into an unpleasant pattern of incessant bickering with one another, which sets my nerves constantly on edge. One child will have a great day while another one (or 4) are falling apart. I have a lot of plates in the air to keep spinning, and I’m never sure when I might just trip on a random Lego or dinosaur and send them all flying. BUT GOD. He’s the God of the mountains and the valleys. He’s also the God of the plains. The God of the hallway. The God of the in-betweens. He’s with me in the dark nightmare of cancer and in the jubilation of a baby girl born with a perfect heart. And he’s with me when my life is a treadmill of full laundry baskets and bickery kids and snail babies. He’s steady and faithful when I am not. He’s patient when I lose my cool. He’s full of love when my tank is empty. I’m so thankful that He pours into me according to the abundance of His faithfulness and not according to my capacity for faith. Where are you this week? The mountain? The valley? Or the plain? Let Him meet you there. Press on, friends.
Thanks for giving thanks with me.
“Let me hear Your lovingkindness in the morning; For I trust in You; Teach me the way in which I should walk; For to You I lift up my soul.” (Psalms 143:8)
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” (Galatians 6:9)
“Come all you weary / Come all you thirsty / Come to the well that never runs dry / Drink of the water / Come and thirst no more / Come all you sinners / Come find His mercy / Come to the table / He will satisfy / Taste of His goodness / Find what you’re looking for / For God so loved the world that He gave us / His one and only Son to save us / Whoever believes in Him will live forever” “God So Loved” by We the Kingdom
~ for good laughs from the littlest Littles. One morning Tatum K was particularly snuggly and was all curled up in my lap. I whispered in her ear, “I love you.” She turned my face toward her mouth and whispered into my ear, “I love donuts.” Honesty is good, my dear.
And Sawyer asked his dad in all seriousness, “Dad, is it TRUE that safe drivers save 40%?”
~ for a long-awaited dream come true. I have wanted to deck out our family bus for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month for a long time. I’ve even looked into having a wrap put on it. (Josh said no). So a good compromise that I could still get excited about, I decked it out in custom magnetic gold polka dots! I was so tickled when they came in the mail, and I was able to surprise Josh and the kids. Makes a statement to be sure! GO GOLD!!
~ for my new throw pillows. Maybe a silly thing to be thankful for, but 40 days ago I thought I was making a simple Etsy purchase. I didn’t realize the Etsy shop was in Guiyang, China. I have watched the tracking on these BLESSED pillows twice a day for FORTY DAYS. I did a little happy jig when they arrived this week.
But then I did have to laugh. You know those annoying “extra” Instagram people who match their pets to their house? I looked at my pillows and had to just shake my head. This was NOT intentional.
~ for the sweetest support from the kiddos. You know your kids are all in on the mission of going gold when you find these all over the house.
~ for the kids and my first Sunday back at in-person church. I can’t say it was easy for me. I struggle with social anxiety anyway, and quarantine and isolation have only amplified my tendency to withdraw. But I’m thankful for the loving leadership of my husband. It was time. It was good to be back in God’s house worshipping with His people. And as a double blessing, (don’t you just love a double blessing?) the church was hosting a blood drive. So Josh and I both got to donate blood. Giving blood means a lot to us. Sawyer received more blood transfusions than I can count. So often it ALMOST wasn’t even a big deal any more. But I will never forget the time Sawyer needed platelets, so we took him to the hospital for a transfusion. But they didn’t have the specific blood he so desperately needed. (The platelets were eventually located and flown in from out of state). It was a terrifying feeling to realize that I could not take for granted that my baby would always be able get the life-saving transfusion he needed. So today I t felt good to give.
~ for a fun night hosting 30 teenagers for our church youth swim party. For good burgers and hotdogs and yummy junk food and for kids that did not mind that the pool was NOT WARM!
~ for the sweetest time with Samantha at a 6th grade Mother/Daughter Tea. We got all doodled up and had fancy girlie snacks while encouragement was shared about growing up, letting go, friendships, and being set apart for God’s purposes. Each girl was given their own fine china plate inscribed with 2 Timothy 2:21,“Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from these things, he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified, useful to the Master, prepared for every good work.” How is this beautiful girl turning into a lovely young lady before my very eyes? Someone turn back the clock…
~ and most of all, I’m thankful for a very different, very special Virtual Tyler Gold Run. It was so difficult to be forced to make the decision to not have an in-person event. It’s our largest event, our largest fundraiser, and last year’s race was SO EPICALLY AWESOME! But obviously this year has been a crazy one of taking steps back and slowing down and trusting God when we don’t understand. But can I just say that the support we saw for this year’s virtual event KNOCKED MY SOCKS OFF!!! You registered! You donated!!! Every day the numbers went up, and I was freshly amazed, encouraged, and humbled that you believe in the mission and ministry of Gold Network of East Texas. The week was a different kind of busy leading up to Saturday, fielding phone calls and emails, 6 social media postings a day, and 5 tv/web interviews. For a virtual event, it sure took a lot of real-life in-person WORK! BUT GOD!
We love the support from favorite local new anchor Blake Holland from KLTV. After our interview, he asked for a sign to put in his yard.
Saturday came, and the weather was PERFECT: bright, crisp, and refreshing. Sawyer and Jase’s 1st grade class walked together to honor them, and the Lord had put it on my heart to walk for ALL our Gold Network HEROES. So I wrote their names all on race bibs that we either wore or had displayed on our wagon. It was so special to have them all with us, and to know that we were honoring their lives and their fights no matter what. Nobody can take that away from us.
We had a great turnout for our little group at the park, and the sweetest time of prayer over Sawyer and over Jase, who will compete his 3 year course of treatment for leukemia next month. Although I missed EVERYTHING about in-person Tyler Gold Run: the crowd, the volunteers, the HEROES and their families, the hundreds of people in our shirts and race bibs, the pounding of the drum line and the electric excitement in the air…there was a special sweetness about our quiet walk. And what a blessing that for the first time in 6 years, I got to participate!
SuperHEROES Sawyer and Jase with their SUPER teacher, Ms. Benscoter Co-founder, right hand, and dear friend, Paula KimmeyThe first time I have gotten to actually participate
And it was also awesome to know that Virtual Tyler Gold Runs were taking place all over Tyler! And not just Tyler: Jacksonville, Bullard, Lindale, Longview, Sulphur Springs, even in Colorado and Tennessee!
Blake and his fiancé Erika did their 10k at the parkTyler Gold Run for Sophie the Brave in Downtown Tyler Tyler Gold Run in Carthage Tyler Gold Run in Colorado Tyler Gold Run in Dallas
I’ve said from the very beginning, before we did ONE THING, that the only way any of this could happen is if God breathed life into it. AND HE HAS!!! Over and over again! And we have to continue to believe (and to walk out that belief in real life) that God has a plan ordained for Gold Network of East Texas, and lay down our woefully incomplete plans in exchange for His perfect one. As long as He continues to provide the grace, and as long as East Texas families need our support, we are going to continue raising funds and raising our voices for the childhood cancer community! Thank you for GOING GOLD with us. We can’t wait to see what God opens up for us in the coming year!!! If you missed your chance to register, you can make a donation any time at www.goldnetworkoet.com/donate
“When a man’s ways please the LORD, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him. Better is a little with righteousness, Than vast revenues without justice. A man’s heart plans his way, But the LORD directs his steps.(Proverbs 16:7-9)
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” (Jeremiah 29:11-13)
~for a hilarious dream come true. When you are six years old, most of your life hinges on some truly pivotal moments: the loosening and pulling of teeth. For some it comes with anguish and terror. But for Sawyer, it is his greatest mission. He had a particular for tooth #3. He has been BEGGING to have his tooth tied to a doorknob. Finally we gave in (we had worried it would hurt, but he assured us he would be SO BRAVE.) Well he was, and that sucker flew right out! It was shocking and hysterical. He was thrilled.
~ for a day to reflect on the tremendous bravery of the men and women who lost their lives on September 11, 2001. With all the social unrest we see around us today, it was especially poignant to remember the way our country set aside our differences and pulled together in a time of such deep tragedy. And so very thankful for the dedicated first responders who choose to put others’ lives before their own, and who run TOWARD danger instead of away from it. None of our kids are old enough to remember, but we teach them about what that day means to our country. We remember.
~ for fluffy homemade biscuits, farm fresh eggs, and smokey slab bacon (especially the batch I made with brown sugar and cayenne).
~ for two challenging but beautiful G&W projects in the works.
~ for the long-awaited return of FOOTBALL! I never thought I’d say that, it’s never really been my thing. But man, it makes my man happy! And I realize how I’ve missed it in the background of our weekends and evenings. Feels good to have some “normal” back!
~ for fun Go GOLD care packages delivered or mailed to our East Texas HERO families. How I wish we could have met together in person, but I’m glad we could at least send them something special so they could Go GOLD at home or school. We have T-shirts available if you’d like to Go GOLD with us! (Email to order)🎗🎗🎗
Shirts available Youth XS – Adult 2X – $20 (email info@goldnetworkoet.com to order)
~ for the first participants of Virtual Tyler Gold Run. SuperHERO Liam and his family gathered to support him and all his warrior friends. So special. I remember meeting Liam’s family when he was first diagnosed, and I have watched him CRUSH every obstacle in his way.
He’s just a remarkable kid. They all are. Having a front row seat to witness the incomparable spirit of these children is COMPLETELY LIFECHANGING. Remaining entrenched in the childhood cancer world is excruciating. These are all my babies. Another diagnosis. Another relapse. Another heart shattering loss. Another day of not understanding why I have my Sawyer boy while another mama’s arms are achingly empty. But the pain keeps me motivated. To keep fighting. To keep advocating. To keep reaching out. And watching the miracles is EXHILARATING! Liam rode his bicycle this weekend! Corbin played his first football game, when years ago his doctors told him he WOULD NEVER play any sports! BUT GOD!! We celebrate the victories together, pray for one another, lift each other up and share HOPE. Please prayerfully consider registering for Virtual Tyler Gold Run. Registration is way down from years’ past, which of course is understandable for a virtual event instead of live. It has been a hard year for everyone. But the need for support for these families is greater than ever. Every registration is a donation that supports local families, contributes to dedicated pediatric cancer research, and provides a tangible show of support to the brave children and their families walking through their worst nightmare. You can walk or run, or just register as a donation and get a great T-shirt as a bonus! You can register and participate any time this week. Registration closes at 11:59pm on September 19. www.tylergoldrun.com
And this week, I’m so grateful for unmistakable hints from the Lord. I am working on a sign for one of my neighbors, and the Scripture she requested was Romans 15:13
“Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” I started working on the sign, and got a text from another friend who placed an order. I jotted down the information and didn’t think much about it. Until I looked up the scripture reference. “Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13
Then this morning as our family gathered together for virtual church in our living room, what do you think the Scripture was for the children’s ministry lesson this morning? “Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13
I hear you Lord.
That is truly the cry of my heart this week. Help me to empty myself of my baggage, my selfishness, my anxieties, my idols, and let You fill me to overflowing with Your joy and peace that never pass away. Thank You for Your Word that continually refreshes and refines.
Thank you for giving thanks with me.
“Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him.” (Psalms 62:5)
“As for me, I will always have hope; I will praise you more and more.” (Psalms 71:14)
~ for a GOLDEN start to the month! Custom license plates in. ✔️
Go GOLD window clings✔️
Wreath and yard sign up✔️
Gold swag for the Tribe✔️
Bling bling mask✔️
New mask and decals gifted from another cancer mom ✔️
So very blessed by seeing how many people have changed their profile and Gone Gold In various ways, both locally and across the nation. And the INCREDIBLE HISTORICAL MILESTONE – the official national proclamation naming September Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, and the FIRST TIME EVER lighting of the White House GOLD!!!!! Childhood cancer advocates have been begging for this show of support for YEARS, and to FINALLY see our precious children honored in this was a truly monumental victory.
Please consider Going Gold by registering for Virtual Tyler Gold Run. Just two weeks left to register. You can run or walk anytime, wherever you are. Or you can just consider it a donation to a great cause. When you support Gold Network of East Texas, you are truly making a difference in the lives of brave kids fighting cancer, and the valiant families supporting them. Click HERE to register.
~ for Sawyer to have the opportunity to have his Warrior buddy, Jase in the same 1st grade class this year. Jase was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in 2017, and is preparing to finish treatment NEXT MONTH!!! GLORY TO THE LORD!!! I love that these two brave boys have each other for support and encouragement. Well I had the opportunity to come to their classroom and ask the other students, “Did you know that you have TWO SUPERHEROES in your class?” I shared briefly that they were both cancer warriors, and the kids were all quite impressed. Then Sawyer and Jase passed out gold ribbons to wear, gold ribbon stickers, and “Go GOLD”fish crackers. So fun!
~ for some really fun and unique Giddyup & Whoa projects. We are so grateful for steady orders coming in. And grateful for good helpers!
~ for cute brothers who love to dress alike.
~ for Vogmask, our very favorite premium N99 masks that we have used since Sawyer was a baby. We have recommended them to other cancer families for years. As you can imagine, the pandemic has had a major impact on their business, and it has been hard for them to keep up with the increasing demand. Despite this challenge, Vogmask sent me a most generous shipment of masks to be donated to our Gold Network HERO kids! We have spoken with the company founder, and have officially made Vogmask the Official Mask of Gold Network of East Texas!
~ for our very favorite tangy and refreshing lemon icebox pie.
~ for a great weekend having Uncle Mike and Kenedy staying with us. And for one evening we had our whole bunch: the oldest two with each of their sweethearts, Cooper with a friend over, and all the Little people. It was loud and chaotic and loud and LOUD. But it was great.
~ and for the blessing of celebrating 21 years of marriage to my Love. This year was a far cry from last year’s Mexico getaway. It’s been a challenging season, one of sanding, of sacrifice, of bearing up under one another. For our marriage, it’s been a workboots and overalls year instead of a slacks and sequins year. Work. But I don’t mean that in a negative way at all! Work is not bad! Marriages are built and strengthened and anchored and fortified with WORK and SWEAT and calloused hands. I’m thankful that after 21 years, it doesn’t matter where we are or what we do…whatever it is, we are together. So very thankful.
Happy anniversary dinner
And for a much needed reminder. That peace, “shalom,” is not the absence of strife or conflict. Instead the Hebrew word means fullness or completeness. I think about how often I find myself seeking “peace” in the wrong way, fleeing from something instead of coming to the Father and letting Him fill me. That peace that really does pass all understanding. Lord, may my FIRST RESPONSE to stress be to turn toward You instead of away. Not to try to numb or mask or cram full all the margins with STUFF, but leave breathing room BE STILL and fill my thirsty lungs with LIFE. Set a guard over my lips and let me listen twice as much as I talk. “He must become greater; I must become less.”” (John 3:30)
As always, I’m so grateful to anyone who takes the time to read these words. God opened this door for a purpose, and I pray I am able to stay out of the way enough for Him to be glorified. May we allow ourselves to drink deeply of His faithfulness, and be filled to overflowing with the fullness of His peace.
Thanks for giving thanks with me.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” (Philippians 4:6-8)
We are another week in, and so far things are rocking and rolling. The kids are all loving school, and our routines are growing more and more familiar. God’s mercies are new every morning, and I’ve felt His comforting presence so near every day. It’s been good for me to get back into the practice of “Thank You Therapy,” thanking God for all the blessings I can think of THE MOMENT I wake up, before I even open my eyes. Thank you so much to those who have faithfully covered us in prayers – I can feel them!
I am thankful:
~ for the peaceful stillness of the morning when I come out to the navy blue sky only pierced by one bright morning star. I love to have my coffee and start my day with Jesus here.
~ for perfectly perfect avocado toast.
~ for a God-soaked exercise in humility. Oh, how He loves…
~ for my carefully cataloged boxes of hand-me-downs. So exciting to find treasures “from the box!”
~ for our first sweet and tasty watermelon of the summer – FINALLY! We’ve had one flavorless dud after another! Thank you Sara!
~ for a good lookin kid with a good looking frog!
~ for a fabulous find – someone replacing their fence along my route to the school. So after dropoff one morning, Tatum K and I scooped up a busload of gorgeous reclaimed wood!
~ for a great late night surprise: Carson Grace popped in from college! And Colton was in town for the weekend, so for a few precious hours, we had our whole tribe back home in the nest. Good for Mama’s heart.
~ for technology that allows us to worship with Carson Grace at her church in Longview and also with our home church.
~ for the best possible compromise in a tough situation. Tuesday is September 1, and we should be gathering on the Downtown Square of Tyler to honor our Gold Network of East Texas HEROES and their families and kick off Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. With concerns related to Covid 19, with heavy hearts, we made the difficult decision to cancel the event. This is one of our most meaningful and personal events, and I am so disappointed to be missing out on the irreplaceable fellowship of our HERO families. In lieu of gathering together this year, we are sending out Gold care packages to our families, so they can GO GOLD wherever they are. We have designed a sharp new T shirt that will be a great way to raise awareness, and a VERY LIMITED quantity of sizes are available for purchase (YouthXS-2X). If you would like to purchase a shirt ($20), send an email to info@goldnetworkoet.com with the sizes you would like, and we will reply with detailed payment information. Free local pickup and $5 shipping available.
Go GOLD T shirts available $20Go GOLD Tyler 2019
~ for the support we have seen for Virtual Tyler Gold Run 2020. We are excited to have so many of our HERO families registered, and how they are sharing the event with their friends and neighbors. It is certainly uncharted territory for us, and difficult to know what to expect. But I’m doing everything I can to promote this year’s unique event, posting on social media 3 times a day, sending out emails, and introducing our brave HERO kids. WE ARE NOT GIVING UP! Childhood cancer is not going away. 2 of our HEROES were hospitalized this week, and we added 3 more new families to our Network. Every time I look at Sawyer, I see the miracle that he is. And I think about what life used to be like when we lived in the hospital, asking God for one more day. And then I think about what life would be like today if things had turned out differently. BUT GOD. My heart is in the childhood cancer world. These families need support, need encouragement, need to be reminded that they are not alone. Will you pray about what God would have as your part? Can you come alongside with a one time donation by registering for Tyler Gold Run? Would you want to support our Clinic Call-in Program, where we provide meal delivery on treatment days for our families, by giving a monthly donation? Would you select Gold Network of East Texas as your charity of choice when shopping on AmazonSmile, so that Amazon will make a donation to us when you shop? Would you pray for us? GNET is an offering to the Lord: we hold it with hands open, asking Him to lead us where He would have us go, and we surrender it all to Him. We seek to be a blessing and a light. Join us in GOING GOLD this September. Wear GOLD! Carry GOLD accessories. Change your social media profile picture. Start a conversation about childhood cancer. Awareness is the place where change begins.
Thanks for giving thanks with me.
“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.” (Colossians 3:12-15)
~ for a staggering honor and privilege: I wrote a check from Gold Network of ETX for TEN THOUSAND DOLLARS!We donated $10,000 to Dr. Ted Laetsch at Children’s Hospital to support his cutting edge research projects for improved cures and therapies for childhood cancer.Dr. Laetsch was on Sawyer’s oncology team, so the donation is even more meaningful. We are so grateful for the funds raised through Tyler Gold Run and and generous donations from the community to help Gold Network do what we do.Our primary focus will remain local family support, but we will always donate toward childhood cancer research in hopes that one day our GNET mission will become obsolete!Until then, we press on.We have exciting new dreams brewing for the upcoming year…more information coming soon!
~ for laid back schedule-free days on break.The kids have painted, baked cookies, learned new tricks on the trampoline, decorated a gingerbread house, and we have made a TINY dent in the HARDEST PUZZLE IN THE WORLD.
~ for a manageably fun-enough New Years.We stayed home.Ate chili.“Nice Mom” showed up and let the kids stay up until 10 and played withsparklers in their pjs.Then mom, dad, and Bigs stayed up to watch the ball drop just to say we did. But it felt really important to me that the first thing we did in 2020 was to pray together as a family.It was simple, sweet, and I willtreasure it always.
~ for traditional black eyed peas, buttery roasted cabbage, and steaming hot sweet cornbread on New Year’s Day.
~ for a Starbucks gift card and a Starbucks right around the corner from our house!Bear was glad he rode along, they gave him a “Pup-puccino!!”
~ for a fun overnight sleepover for Gavin to Uncle Justin and Aunt Gina’s.He had the feast of his dreams and had 24 blissful hours as an only child!A trip to Kilgore to explore the East Texas Oil Museum and a mile-high loaded cheeseburger were the perfect fit for our inquisitive boy.
~ for a joyful dream-come-true for dear friends.Before brave 10 year old cancer warrior Luke went to be with Jesus in 2018, his dream was for his beautiful husky Scout to become a therapy dog. This week, that dream came true!Scout went through the rigorous testing to become certified, and PASSED! Now Scout will be able to bring joy and smiles to kids in the hospital and continue sharing Luke’s legacy, bringing glimmers of beauty from the unspeakable pain his mom and dad and brother are walking through.You can read more about Luke and his family’s unshakable faith and generosity here. https://lukestrong.org/
~ for an exciting new venture for G&W: we launched our new website, www.giddyupandwhoa.com!We’ve been praying about this for a while, and decided to make the leap in hopes of growing our business.We also were super blessed with a new connection for old wood.We have had our eye on a large section of damaged fence for months, and this week I worked up the courage to stop by the house and ask for it.I was met by the sweetest gentleman who was delighted to have the fence hauled off, even taking my card for when he tears more of it down! Finds like those are the best!
Josh has created some beautiful new reclaimed wood decor pieces in addition to a fresh batch of signs, so we are ready for a great year!It’s amazing to me that we started this journey by tiptoeing onto social media last year at Thanksgiving.Excited to see where the Lord takes us.We even included a link to Sunday Gratitude on the G&W website.Amazing to see different pieces of our dreams begin to braid together.
~ for the opportunity to reflect on the past decade.I always get a little moony at the turn of the new year…to me it’s just natural to look back and take stock, and that process always proves emotional for me.Looking back not just a year but a decade was pretty staggering.I’ll spare you the in-depth play by play, but 10 years ago we only had 4 children, were going through the process of our first adoption, and Josh was self employed, remodeling and flipping houses.We often look back and say that that was the season we thought we could tie a bow on our picture perfect little family with our beautifully God-ordained adoption story as the crescendo of our testimony. BUT GOD.In the infinite wisdom of our Father, we had no idea what was coming.We never dreamed of car wrecks and ATV wrecks and fostering.Never dreamed Josh and I would go from completely disagreeing about whether or not to grow our family to getting on the same page, only to walk through the heartbreak of losing a baby, then adopt 3 and have 2 more!We would never have imagined cancer.Cancer changed EVERYTHING.I don’t even recognize that family from 10 years ago.But out of the wreckage also came beauty. A front row seat for miracles. For excruciating grace. So many wonderful, life-changing relationships born in and outside the hospital.The Gold Run and Gold Network, opening doors to share hope with people all over. And God has entrusted us with the stewardship of all these remarkable children in our family… gifts that I didn’t even ask for because I couldn’t have dreamed them up…And even if New Year’s resolutions are hokey and empty, I appreciate the crisp, fresh air that comes with the turn of the calendar page, like the warmth of sunrise after a dark night.My Father’s arms are always open.And with renewed passion, I will seek to love Him with more of my heart this year.And serve Him more and myself less.Oh Lord, the cry of my heart is to let go and trust You.So if I WAS going to have a resolution, that would be it. But I think that has to be more of a New Day’s Resolution. EVERY DAY.
Let’s love one another well this week.
Thanks for giving thanks with me.
“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” (Matthew 6:33-34)
“We love because he first loved us.” (1 John 4:19)
“Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” (Psalms 139:23-24)
“Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit from me. Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit.” (Psalms 51:10-12)
~ for breathing easier.You might remember that Cooper was injured at football practice about a month ago.His hip is fully recovered, but we had another issue hanging over our heads with his health. The EMT on site that day was concerned with Cooper’s heart rhythm, and said we needed to follow up with our primary care physician.We did, and THAT doctor felt it best to err on the conservative side, referring Cooper to a pediatric heart specialist.That appointment was this week. When we arrived, the nurse noted Cooper’s blood pressure as slightly elevated (which could easily have been caused by his anxiety about the appointment).But also, the repeat EKG showed the same concerning abnormality, and prompted the doctor to do an echocardiogram.Thankfully, the anatomy of Cooper’s heart looked perfectly healthy, and the doctor said Cooper is fine.He has an electrical dysrhythmia, an abnormal electric impulse in his heartbeat, but it is not causing any issues.The specialist wants to see him back in a year to make sure nothing is developing into a problem, but otherwise cleared him for all activities, including football!Those were the magic words Coop had been waiting to hear. So it was very special to get to see him take the field with his team Thursday night. Thank You God for taking care of our boy!
~for the sound of little voices lifted in praise. I love that my Littles love Christian music. It’s mostly what we listen to in the car every day. I don’t say that to sound preachy or to brag that we are doing something good. It’s just a choice that I’ve made after hearing my kids sing some less-than-wholesome lyrics that just didn’t sound right coming out of their a little mouths. So anyway, even Tatum has a few songs that she knows, and I love to hear her tiny “hallelujah,” and see her lifted hands. My middle girls are entering the preteen years, and they love music so much. So they sing out with ALL THEIR MIGHT. And I have to hide my giggles when the tone is more enthusiastic than melodious.I know it all sounds beautiful to the Lord.
~ for a reprieve from the oppressively hot weather. We have had a few days that almost feel like fall is coming.
~for one of our most amazing and inspiring experiences since creating the Gold Network of East TX.One of our sweet Hero girls, Aneesa, was diagnosed with Ewing’s Sarcoma in the first grade.She bravely fought through her treatment, and is now an 8th grader at Moore Middle School here in Tyler.She asked her principal to do a Go Gold fundraiser at their school.He said no.Disappointed, but determined, she wrote him a THREE PAGE LETTER explaining what she had been through as a child with cancer, her compassion for other kids with cancer, and shared with him the maddening statistic that less than 4% of federal research funding is directed toward childhood cancer research.
She told him about Gold Network of ETX, and how we have supported her family and her other friends with cancer, and asked him to reconsider and Go Gold.He agreed!Aneesa got on the announcements at her school, shared the news that she was celebrating being 7 years cancer-free, and asked them to pay $2 to wear gold or yellow on the designated day.Her classmates and the faculty were incredibly supportive, and raised over $1000!
I was invited to their pep rally this week (as was the local news station) where Aneesa presented me with a giant check in front of her whole school!I could not have been more proud!What an inspiration this young lady is!She is taking the biggest challenge of her life and turning it into a blessing for others – and is refusing to take “no” for an answer!She didn’t give up!Josh told her he could envision her being the first of our Hero kids to join our GNET board one day.Aneesa was absolutely GLOWING.Love that sweet, sweet girl.
~ for a wonderful evening with some of our Tyler Gold Run volunteer team. We gathered at our big table around a feast of C Rojos decadent tacos and burgers and visited and laughed and just encouraged one another.Then we busted out some delicious pies and coffee and talked about the high points of Tyler Gold Run 2019 and goals for improvement for next year’s event.We got such great feedback, and I just treasure each one of these dedicated individuals who give of their time and energy to support the vision and mission of GNET.I am STILL more exhausted than I have ever been in my life.Another year older, I find I just don’t bounce back the way I once did.But I am so excited to see all that God has in store for us in the upcoming year, and all the lives GNET is going to touch.
~ A friend texted me the most touching and surprising note. She keeps a Sawyer shirt in her classroom as a reminder to pray for him, and so many others of course. We don’t often think about that most of our prayer requests are not one and done. It’s always a process, always a journey. when someone is sick, we pray for healing, but do we continue to pray for recovery? When we know someone is about to have a baby, we pray for the pregnancy and a healthy delivery. Do we continue to pray for the momma during the sleepless nights? And that the baby will grow strong and healthy? That momma is never going to stop needing our prayers. I’m so grateful for the friends who don’t stop praying.The ones who continue to pray more than five years after Sawyer was diagnosed. Who pray for my adopted children for the different things that they are working through. That pray for all of my kids, that pray for my marriage, and pray for me. We have to be faithful to lift one another up. Don’t give up!
~ for a fun day watching our yummy 1 year old cousin, Emmett.He loved the Bear, and kept me on my toes with his exploring.Tatum K surprised me with her jealousy and how decidedly and passionately she hoarded “HER” things.Our prissy princess had quite the furrowed frown! I also got some good baby sugars from baby Coby this week. I’ve been itching to get my hands on him for a long time.
~ for so many generous donations for the Children’s Hospital Toy Drive.We are so excited to refill the prize closet at the clinic next month.There’s still time to donate!
~ for an unexpected surprise. Looks like it is large item pick up week again! Already this evening just running an errand, I have seen pile after pile on the curb. In less than 20 minutes I scored a pair of shutters, and antique file box, and a set of finials off a bedframe. It’s going to be a great week!
I know I am not alone in saying: this parenting stuff is HARD, y’all. HARD!!!No matter how many kids you have, or what their ages, whatever you’re walking through, it’s just a different flavor of hard.Our family is in a unique situation with so many kids on so many points along the timeline.Not many parents are training toddlers, navigating Littles, preteens, teens, and young adults simultaneously.The needs are relentless. I can’t remember a time when ALL NINE of them were all doing solidly OK at the same time.Somebody’s always mad at us or at each other.Somebody’s in trouble.Somebody’s sick.Something is falling apart with at least one of them at all times.It’s like whack a mole. But I’m the one who consistently takes the mallet to the head.Parenting HURTS. I know we will get through it, and I know God is always at work. But I’m not gonna lie, sometimes I just feel like I want to run away.But God. I am thankful for new mercies every morning, and I’m thankful that the outcomes are not up to me doing everything right.God knew what He was doing when He chose me to be the Mama for each one of my babies, and He has faithfully, consistently, and without fail given me the grace to walk through sleepless nights and cancer, fostering and rebellion, adoption and selfishness and defiance and everything else that life has thrown at us.And no matter how weary Josh and I get, we are never giving up.We won’t ever give up on any of our kids, and we will fight for them on our knees and in our hearts as long as we have breath.Don’t lose heart friends. Don’t give up when it’s hard.Read the extra story.Give the extra hug. Say you’re sorry when you screw up.And don’t be so hard on yourself.God is working on them and He is working on you.God is doing His thing.Let Him.Anyway, I needed to say all that to encourage myself, and I figured maybe somebody else needed it too.
Let’s love one another well this week.
Thanks for giving thanks with me.
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Galatians 6:9
“Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; 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 40:28-31
~ that Tatum K and Sawyer are both feeling so much better. Still some ever-lingering hacking coughs, but no more fevers. Thank You Jesus! It’s amazing how this virus knocked them down. They have been so completely exhausted all week. I snapped pictures in the car each day after school.
~ for so many people sharing how they are Going Gold.Profile pictures, wearing gold, sports teams, or making generous donations to the prize closet.It encourages my heart so much to see that people really do care, and that the word IS SPREADING!You are MAKING A DIFFERENCE, FRIENDS!
~ for hot, cheesy, gooey homemade pizza.
~ for our sweet, OLD, grumpy grandpa dog, Cricket. He turned 14 this week. He is deaf as a post, halfway blind, and HATES Bear. But we sure do love him. Happy Birthday, Cricket.
~ for good help right when I need it.A sweet friend called to say, “I have a free day.Let me ride around and ask businesses for giveaway prizes.I could sell ice to an Eskimo!”What a blessing!And he was right!In a few short hours, he stocked us up with FABULOUS prizes for the post-race drawings!Thanks Jarrod!And we also had a super efficient morning filling race bags, organizing medals, and sorting t-shirts.The student volunteers worked steadily to get it done, and the support from the school maintenance staff was OUTSTANDING. I also had a friend help me get Cooper to AND from his Pine Cove work retreat with his youth group. Not only THAT, I found out that my son went to camp WITH NO BEDDING OR TOWEL, and she took care of him for me! Thank you, Emily!!!! (I‘ll check his packing next time!)
~ for a new milestone for Cooper – his first “ask” to a dance.Thankful for his creative big sister who made his poster, and for a sweet friend to go to Homecoming with in a few weeks.
~ for great time for Sawyer at Donuts With Dad this week.When the note came home about it, he was bouncing OFF THE WALLS.And it’s ALL he talked about ALL week.“FOUR more days till Donuts With Dad!”“Only THREE more days til we have donuts, Daddy!”“You know what TOMORROW is????”The actual event did not disappoint.Josh and the other dads had good times with their kiddos.And Sawyer’s teacher commented on how much his face lit up when Daddy walked in.Moments like this are such a big deal for us.Maybe you can’t understand.But when you’ve done these fun little milestones and events with all your other kids, the kind of events that you really do take for granted….and you were never quite sure if you were going to get to do it with this one… I don’t know what else to say.It’s just a really big deal.
~ for the simple sweet moments that refuel the heart.Friday was INSANE.In the course of the day I fielded more than 20 emails and 152 text messages.We scoped out Bergfeld Park to map out our new layout.I put out more posters and signs.Picked up 800 race shirts in 10 GIANT BOXES and crammed them into our bus like a Tetris game around the 7 kids and dog.It was 90 to nothing ALL DAY. But then I had a moment. In the afternoon there was this tiny little window of time to sit and put my feet up and be quiet.And then a little boy woke up from his nap. Sweaty little curls on his neck, he crawled up into my lap and put his head on my chest.“I love you mama.”That was the reset button I needed. I squeezed that boy a little too tight for a little too long.
~ and can I just say, I am SO THANKFUL and EXCITED about our new Tyler Gold Run t-shirts!We wanted to change up the design for our 5 year anniversary, and our talented graphic designer did a terrific job!Aren’t they great!!??
~ and Friday STILL wasn’t over!We had fun taking the kids to Elementary Night at the GCS varsity football game.They bounced in the bounce houses, ran around with their friends, and formed a spirit line for the players to run in through.I’m not sure if any of them watched any football.
The Littles were CAPTIVATED with the football game
~ for a fantastic evening of fellowship.We have stepped out in faith to be a host home for a 10-week Small Group Bible study.It’s been a LONG TIME.Hosting and opening up our home has been a central part of our lives for most of our married life.We had 50 people in our home EVERY. SUNDAY. for YEARS.And LOVED IT.But everything stopped when we started fostering our 3 Littles in 2013.Small group, church, Sunday school, school activities.Basically anything outside the home.That season was just so hard, and we had to focus all our energy on their needs.Then Sawyer was born.And just when we thought we had caught our breath and were about ready to rejoin society…then cancer stole everything away.And it’s taken a really long time to get back into normalcy.There’s the emotional side – my anxiety kicks my butt and keeps me from wanting to be in social situations; we feel so DIFFERENT, because the war we’ve been through over the past 6 years has changed us in pretty much every way.But then just the practical side – we have a giant family, and opening our home or going to someone else’s is both intimidating and a ton of work!But man!Stepping out of the comfort zone, stepping out into a scary place in obedience….it is SO right where God wants us! It is stressful and stretching and sometimes uncomfortable and sometimes even inconvenient.And the fruit it bears is LIFE GIVING AND LIFE CHANGING!Letting people into our lives and our homes is where LIFE HAPPENS.It was a great night. So very thankful.
~ and for my sweet girls who Go Gold without being told. They just instinctively chose gold/yellow outfits for church today. So sweet.
This week, I connected with 2 more cancer mamas. They have both had children diagnosed in the last couple months, and both in East Texas.Reaching out to them and adding their pictures to our wall of Heroes at the upcoming race was such a powerful paradigm shift for me.Talk about a reset button.It’s so easy for me to get swamped by the mountainous to-do lists: clearing our route with the police department, making sure we have volunteers, health department, street department, water, signs, SOCIAL MEDIA POSTS THREE TIMES A DAY….there is just so much to do.But then is the staggering reminder: these 2 families lives are falling apart right now.And one of our sweet friends who is almost done with treatment had to be unexpectedly hospitalized due to fever and low counts.And tomorrow is Lucas’s birthday, and instead of enjoying a smash cake and taking a zillion pictures, his mama and daddy are away on a trip, trying to comfort one another.It is these staggering heartbreaks that help me focus back in on the WHY.These are WHY we do what we do.These families are WHY I wear gold every single day and cover my bus with gold magnets and spend hours a day on my phone.These are such small, insignificant things that on their own mean very little. But alongside everything everyone else is doing….and fueled by the UNSURPASSABLE LOVE OF JESUS CHRIST…. I genuinely believe it makes a difference to these families. Because they all deserve to be SEEN AND HEARD AND RALLIED AROUND.They need to know they are not walking alone.
It’s gonna be a BIG WEEK!I have interviews and morning shows, elementary chapel, and Friday night will be Go GOLD night at the GCS football game.And then Tyler Gold Run is SATURDAY!!!!I’m totally thrilled and completely overwhelmed. It’s not too late to register as a runner, walker, or just give a donation.And we also have lots of volunteer opportunities as well. And as always, I’m so grateful for your prayers over all the big and the small details.At least the weather forecast looks better than last year’s….AND, Sunday is the Opening Ceremony for the Lone Star Circle of Life Bike Tour, an incredible organization/event that raises awareness for Organ Donation in the state of Texas.Our pastor and his wife have been involved for years because of their son Josh, who was an organ recipient as a teenager, and then later an organ donor when he passed away.Because of our relationship with them, we have been big fans of the Circle of Life for years.But this year, Brother Joe reached out and informed me that they also honor people who have received blood transfusions; and that they wanted to honor and ride for Sawyer!Talk about humbled and overwhelmed!Another of our precious Gold Network Hero kids, Jessi Brown, who passed away 2 years ago is also being honored, along with many other donors and recipients. Did I mention it is a BIG WEEK!!???
I’m also excited about the unique opportunity presented by our school through the ministry of World Vision: the Matthew 25 challenge. Perhaps another “Reset Button,” if you will. As parents and students, each day has a different specific challenge based on Matthew 25:35-40.
Monday – “I was hungry” : Fast from snacks and desserts, and only eat riceand beans for dinner.
Tuesday – “I was thirsty” : Give up all drinks today except for water.
Wednesday – “I was a stranger” : Sleep on the floor tonight.
Thursday – “I needed clothes” : Wear the same clothes to work/school that you wore yesterday.
Friday – “I was sick … I was in prison” : Reach out to someone going through a difficult time.
Our kids are all very eager to participate. We’ll see what they think by the end of the week.I’m blessed to walk beside them as we talk about what is REALLY MEANS to love and serve the least of these.
Let LOVE OTHERS WELL this week.
Thanks for giving thanks with me.
““Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’ “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’ “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’” Matthew 25:34-40
~ for an uneventful day off from school. It was nice and quiet. The kids had fun in the pool. It was a lovely nothing day.
~ for a special, special day that I never could have dreamed we would see.Our 20 year anniversary!The naive kids who repeated vows 2 decades ago would have rightfully been nominated “Least Likely to Succeed.”We had everything against us.But God breathed His life into us, and into our marriage.He knit us together because we only had each other.He took us through the fire and refined our love and our faith.I scarcely recognize those kids.But I love what our life has become.We enjoyed our new favorite C Rojo’s burger and grapefruit sodas for lunch, and thanked God for 20 beautiful, hard, grace-laced, overcoming years. This was what I posted that day:
“These two kids didn’t have a clue.We were wild and naive and crazy about each other.We had a baby. And then found Jesus. And then got married.Had some more babies and adopted one.Lost a baby, adopted some more, and had another baby all in one year.Then came cancer.More cancer, and ANOTHER baby.I am blown away by the quantity and quality of life and love God has packed into 20 years.We chose each other when we didn’t know any better.Now I know, and I’d choose you again and again and forever.And to borrow from another favorite love story, “Let ‘me say we’re crazy. What do they know?Put your arms around me baby, don’t ever let go.Let the world around us, just fall apart.Baby we can make it if we’re heart to heart.”Happy Anniversary to my Love.”
~for an uncommonly cooperative and photogenic dog.He doesn’t mind being a Giddyup & Whoa model or a Gold Network spokesdog.But he does get tired after all the limelight.
~for exciting updates from our graphic designer for this year’s Tyler Gold Run shirts!We wanted something fun and different to celebrate 5 years.Can’t show you yet…but I can’t wait!!!! There’s still time to register!
~ for so many heartwarming reports of people “Going Gold!” You have changed your profile pictures, shared awareness posts, worn gold… THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart, and the hearts of so many families who live childhood cancer awareness month every single day, not because they choose to, but because it is the reality of the life they now live.
~for healing.Cooper’s hip is mending well.Kora has had a chronically recurrent ear infection that is improving.Sawyer has had a yucky cough.That’s not uncommon for him.He always catches whatever crud is going around.He was coughing by the second day of school, and pretty much has been ever since.I try not to not be too quick to drag him to the doctor’s office, because I know everybody gets a cold at back to school time.And I know I am oversensitive and overprotective with Sawyer.Unfortunately, Monday night, he started running fever.High fever, over 102°.We kept him home from school of course, but resisted the urge to jump straight to the doctor, for the same reasons referenced before.But the cough worsened enough that it was keeping him up all night.And me.And Tatum K.After three days of significant fever and increasing coughing, I finally took him in to the pediatrician. Pneumonia.Now after missing a full week of school, and a few days on antibiotics, the fever has lifted and the cough is at least a little better.BUT, now Tatum K is running fever. Sigh. Just one exceptionally exhausting act in the intricate dance of a large family. BUT GOD…
~ for melatonin.When your child physically does not have a “get sleepy” button, you MAKE SURE you NEVER run out of melatonin.
When life is super busy (back to school + a million kids + Giddyup & Whoa painting + crunch time in preparation for the Gold Run) and then we have a health curveball… it really sends me spiraling.Anxiety doesn’t play nice, and is merciless in its attacks.Rest at night is almost nonexistent.I often feel paralyzed by all I have to get done, and physically feel like the wind has been knocked out of me.Somehow I had recently heard some song, just a snippet of a really terrible song, and it got stuck in my head.It was absolutely maddening.After about 3 days, I realized how it was absolutely MESSING WITH ME!It was quite literally a vulgar and negative soundtrack playing constantly in my head.But once I keyed in on it…I took action right away.I turned on my worship music and began to SING! Every time the negative song would creep back into the background, I would silence it with prayer and singing.Changing the soundtrack of my day made a huge difference in my peace.Have you ever noticed that?That you replay something over and over in your mind?And how much more often it is something NEGATIVE than anything remotely positive?We replay a scathing argument, but rarely an uplifting encouragement.Recognizing this habit, and acknowledging the negative impact it has on our mood and our spirit can be such a life changing paradigm shift.
I’m ready for a better week. Sawyer is excited to return to school after several days on his antibiotic and now fever-free.I pray Tatum K recovers quickly and no one else gets sick.I have a to-do list 86 miles long, but I trust God to provide the grace I need breath by breath.And it may not all get done, and it probably won’t all go perfectly, but that’s ok too.BUT GOD…
Thanks for giving thanks with me.
“When every day is just another struggle / And every choice is an act of war / Gotta pray, gotta press on to the prize worth fighting for / When it feels like I’ll never make it / When my heart’s crying out for more / Gotta pray, gotta press on to the prize worth fighting for.” (“Prize Worth Fighting For” Jamie Kimmett)
“I hear the whisper underneath your breath / I hear you whisper, you have nothing left / I will send out an army / To find you in the middle of darkest night / It’s true, I will rescue you / I will never stop marching / To reach you in the middle of the hardest fight / It’s true, I will rescue you. (“Rescue”Lauren Daigle)
“Now I have resurrection power / living on the inside Jesus / You have given us freedom No longer bound by sin and darkness / living in the light of Your goodness / You have given us freedom Freedom, You have given us freedom, You have given us freedom, my chains are gone! Freedom, You have given us freedom, You have given us freedom, HALLELUJAH!” (“Resurrection Power” Chris Tomlin)
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.” (Philippians 4:8-9)
“No, you can’t have that. Cheap cars are really, really expensive!”
~ for my Coop.I got a pretty terrifying phone call from Josh Tuesday evening.Cooper got hit hard during football practice and at the moment I was called, there was an ambulance and firetruck on the field. Thankfully, a trip to the ER confirmed that nothing was broken. Only a hyperextended hip and some torn ligaments.We are disappointed that he will miss a few weeks of playing time, but so very thankful that the injury wasn’t worse.
~for my first Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte of the season. And it was even better because Colton showed up with it on my doorstep!
~ for a GOLDEN WEEK.Oh my goodness, it was insanely busy and so much work.I ate, slept, and breathed Gold.Very little sleep actually.The “to-do” list always runs and runs through my head and won’t let me rest.But God gave me so much grace to keep it all rolling. And blessed me with such wonderful and thoughtful encouragers who lift me with prayer and kindness.
So thankful for my incredible husband, who shares the vision and drive, and is willing to put his hands to the work behind the scenes.I envisioned a wall of our Hero kids’ pictures, and he built exactly what I described.IN ONE AFTERNOON!He is just amazing. And he’s a great sport about all the little gold sparkles that have spread from one end of our house to the other.
~ i’m thankful that I have the most wonderful and generous people in the world to work alongside.And the absolute most incredible Childhood Cancer community to serve.I met several families for the first time on Thursday. Many of them I’ve only corresponded with by phone or email. I’ve seen the pictures of their precious children, and prayed for them, but it is still so overwhelming to actually meet face-to-face and hug one another.It is the worst, best group of people to belong to.
~ for such a special night at Go GOLD Tyler.We had more than 20 Childhood Cancer families represented, and so many loyal supporters.Our Heroes and their families walked the Gold Carpet, and we released balloons for the children who are now in heaven with Jesus.And I genuinely believe families are realizing that they are not alone.That others understand their pain, that others really care, and that their children and their personal struggles MATTER.Awareness and family connection is spreading, and that has been exactly our hope and prayer for Gold Network of ETX.You can watch our HERO video here.
~ for a successful online auction and for the remarkable generosity that landed that stunning painting EXACTLY where it was meant to be. God’s orchestration is just indescribable!
~ for the best hamburger I have ever had in my hamburger-loving-life!Thank you C Rojos!
~ for endless cups of coffee and a day of pajamas-on-the-couch on Friday (the day after Go GOLD).I Could. Not. Move. Seriously, it took about 3 days to recover.
~ for the very best surprise!My doorbell rang, and it was MY GIRL!Carson Grace came home for the holiday weekend!Oh how I’ve missed her, how we have all missed her!And it makes my heart happy to know she’s missed us a little too!
~ for such a special family day today.We wanted to get to attend ONE MORE Texas Rangers baseball game in our beloved Globe Life Park before everything is moved over to the new state-of-the-art venue that will replace it.That ballpark holds such special memories.Josh and I went when it was known as The Ballpark at Arlington on one of our first dates.It was both of our first Rangers game.We’ve been with the kids, with youth groups, and celebrated birthdays there.We’ve toured the park behind the scenes and run the bases.We’ve sat in the premium seats and the nosebleeds.So today was the perfect day.EVERYONE was able to go, so we started the day with a hearty Dad’s Special Breakfast, and headed for Arlington.Oh, let me tell you…it was H-O-T!(We know that will be the one thing that we won’t miss when we visit the new stadium. It will be air conditioned.)But we ate our packed picnic and snacks and cheered for our team. We even bumped into one of Sawyer’s oncology nurses! I know the kids didn’t REALLY have that great a time: it was way too hot and a lot of sitting.But we were together.And it really meant something to Josh and I to be there all together one last time.And I’m so thankful the kids are SUCH great sports.They were a little whiny and squirrely during the game, but afterwards, they couldn’t quit thanking us for “the best day ever!”We will all laugh at the memory of the hottest, stickiest, stinkiest ballgame of all time!
Today September 1. September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. I know, people are like, “oh brother, here she goes again.”I get it.Kids with cancer is a real downer.Trust me.I agree.And I didn’t used to know or care ANYTHING about childhood cancer.Until July 23, 2014, when I was told, “your baby has cancer,” and I became another statistic.It wasn’t my life until all of a sudden, it was.
Childhood cancer is the leading cause of death by disease in children in the United States. 700 children are diagnosed each day. And 1 out of 5 children diagnosed with cancer will not survive. It takes more lives than AIDS, Asthma, Cystic Fibrosis, and Diabetes combined. Yet somehow, out of the $5 billion federal budget of the National Cancer Institute (NCI), less than 4% is designated toward research specific to all the types of pediatric cancer combined.That’s why you’ll hear parents of kids with cancer use the phrase, “more than 4.”
So what can you do?
1) GO GOLD! Awareness is the first step. If you are reading this, childhood cancer has come across your radar. Whether it was because of Sawyer, another special child, or a friend of a friend of a friend…you have entered the world of pediatric cancer. What you do with it is up to you. Be creative: put up a gold wreath, paint your nails gold, carry a gold purse for the month of September. Wear gold shoes, or switch to gold shoelaces. Start wearing gold (or your Sawyer shirt, or whoever you are supporting) every Friday, and get the conversation started! Use social media! Use Sawyer’s picture, or find your own!I’m so blessed by several of you who have already changed your profile pictures!
2) If you want to support a national organization on behalf of Childhood Cancer, I recommend Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation and St. Baldrick’s Foundation.Both of these focus solely on pediatric cancers, and primarily research. If you want to support a non-profit for East Texas kids and families, I am personally a fan of GoldNetwork.
3) Register for Tyler Gold Run on September 21. Start a team. Run it, walk it, or just show up for lemonade and to cheer on the participants! Proceeds support East Texas families as well as Childhood Cancer research.
4) DO SOMETHING! Pray and ask God to show you what is your part. Maybe you’ll be the one to visit kids in the hospital. Or take a meal to a cancer family. GIVE BLOOD!! Kids with cancer need numerous life-saving blood transfusions throughout treatment.
Thank you for letting me share my heart with you.Five years ago, I didn’t know or care about childhood cancer.And in an instant, everything changed. Now, the Lord has allowed me the honor of being an advocate for Sawyer and so many others. My most important message is and will always be sharing the love and hope I have found in Jesus Christ. So to me, sharing that Love with hurting families while raising awareness for these precious children is the perfect combination. I challenge you: GO GOLD for SEPTEMBER!!
Thanks for giving thanks with me!
“And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.”” Revelation 21:3-5
Sundaygratitude 