Cave Conquered!
Picture is worth 1000 words!
Monday, March 31, 2008
Pray for Jason
My friend and neighbor here in ATL JASON MILLS (from Cayman Islands) is in the hospital. He is suffering from same symptoms that I have been having. He went in late Sat night. Pray for him, please. LV u all
Good Monday Morning
Hello all! Hope you all had a great weekend. Ours started off with a little excitment on Friday. You all know Jaque has been under the weather since we returned home from Haworth. From stomach sickness to a swollen leg, she has had a wide range of symtoms. In fact, they still are not sure what she has going on.
On Friday, after another long night, I decided that enough was enough, and we went to see the nurse. She told us to prop the leg (doing that) and take tylenol (doing that). So she finally got a doctor to come up and see Jaque. He was much more concerned with ruling out the bad possiblities. They did an EKG and it came out ok. Then he decided that they needed to do blood work. He wanted to make sure that she did not have a blood clot, or anything else for that matter, going on in her lungs. They drew blood, of course Jaque cried because she is so afraid of needles now. And off the nurse went. We then went down stairs to see another doctor. When he came in and read the results of the blood work, he looked at Jaque in wonder. He told the nurse that the results could not be right. The nurse said that she had two other technicians look at the blood and it was consistant with the color of arterial blood. She told the doctor that she ran it twice. He told her he did not care, to draw the blood again.
He looked at me and said that if these were correct, we would be going straight to the hospital. Jaques eyes got big. I told her that it would be ok. That to have faith that it was only vein blood, and that the second test would be ok. I told her no matter what, we could deal with it, as long as we found out what it was. About that time Chris called and was coming up. I caught him outside and had him come in for the second drawing of blood. Yes, she still cried, but held his hand and did better. MAN that was a HUGE NEEDLE! They compared the two tubes of blood, and they were the same color.
Well, the doctor came back in and said that it was much better. Said that it was a false alarm. Ain't God great? Ain't he? So he changed the antibiotics that she was one, and hopefully that will do. As of this morning, the leg is still swollen, but not as big as before. She is still sickly, but better than last week.
No turkey hunting. Guess God was not ready for her to shoot a gun yet. Next time he could just send a text message, right? Lots of rest, and TV. It rained Sat and Sun. Last night was the first she peaked her head out of the apartment since lunch on Friday. We drove up to Stone Mountain, it was getting dark so with any luck we can make our way back this coming weekend.
SO thank you for your prayers for Jaque, as you can see, they are working. It is when we are at our best that the devil tries to attack. She had a great high on Thursday, and he tried to take her glory. One thing I am learning is that the devil can only take your glory if you are willing to give it to him.
We are not, are you? I know that if you are reading this -- you are not!! It is easy to have faith when all is going well. It is hard to keep faith when you lose patience. We serve an awesome God. He will restore health unto Jaque and heal her wounds. JER 30:17. We must have the patience for his work to be done right, and faith that once he started with her, he will finish.
Hope all of you at Haworth are getting ready for prom. Thanks Coach for keeping Jaque up to speed on everything at school. You and her teammates mean a lot to her. To everyone in Elk City, Burns Flat, Dill City, and Springhill -- we love you all. We have such a great family.
Love you all and miss you all.
Carol (Jaque and Chris)
P.S. Please pray for Aunt Carolyn and Jaque's Viper Teammate Ashley Johnson's best friends mom.
On Friday, after another long night, I decided that enough was enough, and we went to see the nurse. She told us to prop the leg (doing that) and take tylenol (doing that). So she finally got a doctor to come up and see Jaque. He was much more concerned with ruling out the bad possiblities. They did an EKG and it came out ok. Then he decided that they needed to do blood work. He wanted to make sure that she did not have a blood clot, or anything else for that matter, going on in her lungs. They drew blood, of course Jaque cried because she is so afraid of needles now. And off the nurse went. We then went down stairs to see another doctor. When he came in and read the results of the blood work, he looked at Jaque in wonder. He told the nurse that the results could not be right. The nurse said that she had two other technicians look at the blood and it was consistant with the color of arterial blood. She told the doctor that she ran it twice. He told her he did not care, to draw the blood again.
He looked at me and said that if these were correct, we would be going straight to the hospital. Jaques eyes got big. I told her that it would be ok. That to have faith that it was only vein blood, and that the second test would be ok. I told her no matter what, we could deal with it, as long as we found out what it was. About that time Chris called and was coming up. I caught him outside and had him come in for the second drawing of blood. Yes, she still cried, but held his hand and did better. MAN that was a HUGE NEEDLE! They compared the two tubes of blood, and they were the same color.
Well, the doctor came back in and said that it was much better. Said that it was a false alarm. Ain't God great? Ain't he? So he changed the antibiotics that she was one, and hopefully that will do. As of this morning, the leg is still swollen, but not as big as before. She is still sickly, but better than last week.
No turkey hunting. Guess God was not ready for her to shoot a gun yet. Next time he could just send a text message, right? Lots of rest, and TV. It rained Sat and Sun. Last night was the first she peaked her head out of the apartment since lunch on Friday. We drove up to Stone Mountain, it was getting dark so with any luck we can make our way back this coming weekend.
SO thank you for your prayers for Jaque, as you can see, they are working. It is when we are at our best that the devil tries to attack. She had a great high on Thursday, and he tried to take her glory. One thing I am learning is that the devil can only take your glory if you are willing to give it to him.
We are not, are you? I know that if you are reading this -- you are not!! It is easy to have faith when all is going well. It is hard to keep faith when you lose patience. We serve an awesome God. He will restore health unto Jaque and heal her wounds. JER 30:17. We must have the patience for his work to be done right, and faith that once he started with her, he will finish.
Hope all of you at Haworth are getting ready for prom. Thanks Coach for keeping Jaque up to speed on everything at school. You and her teammates mean a lot to her. To everyone in Elk City, Burns Flat, Dill City, and Springhill -- we love you all. We have such a great family.
Love you all and miss you all.
Carol (Jaque and Chris)
P.S. Please pray for Aunt Carolyn and Jaque's Viper Teammate Ashley Johnson's best friends mom.
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Jaque says to call this THANK YOU JESUS
You all know today was the big prom dress day. It started out very slow. Jaque had a horrible tummy ache. We got to the Sherpherd center at 9:15 am (15 min late) and stretched well. We were set to leave at 10 sharp. Ashley & Danielle (theraphist from our day program group), Chris, Jaque, and I loaded up in the Tahoe and took off in search of the perfect dress. We had found it in an issue of a PROM preview magazine. There were two places I called here that had it in stock.
We arrived early at Gabriella's, the first shop. Yes, we arrived early believe it or not. We waited, and waited, and waited. Chris got out and tugged at the door and tried to set their alarm off. They are suppose to open at 11 am, but at 11:15 am we were loosing our steam. The other shop we were going to try was about 2o minutes farther out. Did we really want to go that far, or just wait a while longer for it to open. The clock was ticking and we only had a few hours. So we decided to go on. I remember thinking, not quite sure why - but I said I guess God did not mean for us to get a dress at that store today. Trying to keep Jaque from getting down, I told her it would be ok, mybe the next place was better anyway.
We then drove to Girli Girl in Buford GA. Remember this!!! We arrived, and started wondering where in the world we had turned off to. It was a quaint little main street type of town just outside of the big ATL. It was so cute and inviting. Just then the GPS said "arriving at Girli Girl" on the left. Becauase this is an outing, it means that Jaque attempts to manuver as much as she can on her own. As we were strolling up the sidewalk, steps were in front of each store, except ours. I thought, good. Then we opened the door to a step up, a step down, steps steps all around! No need to worry Jaque, I said, it will be just fine. Ashely and Danielle stook to their guns on Jaque working. She worked hard. They helped when needed, but she worked hard too.
After finding the dress that Jaque had picked up out of the magazine, we tried it and one more on. The other looked pretty good on hanger, but you never really know until you get it on. The owner, Tracy Hurd was very helpful. She made sure we had plenty of room to try on the dresses. Once Jaque got them on, she helped us look at a stitch here, and a tuck there. Chris of course talked her head off about Jaque and her story. You know - that factor that I have spoken of many times, the Jaque "it." After trying both dresses on, looking from all angles, we all had come to a mutual decision on her dress. It is a beautiful color - perfect for Jaques skin and her eyes. It will be so beautiful on her, but what wouldn't. Anyway................
Chris and I were talking about the dress. I told him that he needed to go ahead and pay for it. I said "use some of your cash because your debit card has a $300 per purchase limit." Since it was a $ 300++ dress, I wanted to make sure that the charge went through.
Just then the owner said no need to do that Jaque. I will make you a deal. PAY ATTENTION FAMILY AND FRIENDS. She said that I will make you a deal that if you send me a prom picture, and do not forget, this dress is on me. We all just kind of stood there for a second. What did she just say???? Yes, that is what she said. Jaque said WHAT?? The lady repeated herself to Jaque, and Jaque just went over and gave her a big hug. She bagged up the dress for us. She gave us her card with address and email.
After talking with her a bit more, we all left out scratching our heads, wondering what just happened. We know what happened. God took us to this place, crossed our paths with Tracy Hurd, and showed us his mighty works. All I could say is that is how great God is.
Not for the money part of this. It is not about monetary things. God let Jaque touch this woman's life, and in return she touched Jaque's, Chris's, Danielle's, Ashley's, and mine. Upon leaving, I told Ashley and Danielle that since day one of Jaque's journey things like this had happened. That God has blessed us every step of the way, and contiues to bless us still. Now in return, we will share this story with all of you, and you will share with who you know, and so on, and so on.
So when asking Jaque what to call our post today, she said "Thank you Jesus." Three little words, three very powerful little words, three life changing/path crossing little words. Love you all and keep up the prayers, you are always appreciated & loved.
Thank you Jesus.
Carol (Jaque and Chris)
We arrived early at Gabriella's, the first shop. Yes, we arrived early believe it or not. We waited, and waited, and waited. Chris got out and tugged at the door and tried to set their alarm off. They are suppose to open at 11 am, but at 11:15 am we were loosing our steam. The other shop we were going to try was about 2o minutes farther out. Did we really want to go that far, or just wait a while longer for it to open. The clock was ticking and we only had a few hours. So we decided to go on. I remember thinking, not quite sure why - but I said I guess God did not mean for us to get a dress at that store today. Trying to keep Jaque from getting down, I told her it would be ok, mybe the next place was better anyway.
We then drove to Girli Girl in Buford GA. Remember this!!! We arrived, and started wondering where in the world we had turned off to. It was a quaint little main street type of town just outside of the big ATL. It was so cute and inviting. Just then the GPS said "arriving at Girli Girl" on the left. Becauase this is an outing, it means that Jaque attempts to manuver as much as she can on her own. As we were strolling up the sidewalk, steps were in front of each store, except ours. I thought, good. Then we opened the door to a step up, a step down, steps steps all around! No need to worry Jaque, I said, it will be just fine. Ashely and Danielle stook to their guns on Jaque working. She worked hard. They helped when needed, but she worked hard too.
After finding the dress that Jaque had picked up out of the magazine, we tried it and one more on. The other looked pretty good on hanger, but you never really know until you get it on. The owner, Tracy Hurd was very helpful. She made sure we had plenty of room to try on the dresses. Once Jaque got them on, she helped us look at a stitch here, and a tuck there. Chris of course talked her head off about Jaque and her story. You know - that factor that I have spoken of many times, the Jaque "it." After trying both dresses on, looking from all angles, we all had come to a mutual decision on her dress. It is a beautiful color - perfect for Jaques skin and her eyes. It will be so beautiful on her, but what wouldn't. Anyway................
Chris and I were talking about the dress. I told him that he needed to go ahead and pay for it. I said "use some of your cash because your debit card has a $300 per purchase limit." Since it was a $ 300++ dress, I wanted to make sure that the charge went through.
Just then the owner said no need to do that Jaque. I will make you a deal. PAY ATTENTION FAMILY AND FRIENDS. She said that I will make you a deal that if you send me a prom picture, and do not forget, this dress is on me. We all just kind of stood there for a second. What did she just say???? Yes, that is what she said. Jaque said WHAT?? The lady repeated herself to Jaque, and Jaque just went over and gave her a big hug. She bagged up the dress for us. She gave us her card with address and email.
After talking with her a bit more, we all left out scratching our heads, wondering what just happened. We know what happened. God took us to this place, crossed our paths with Tracy Hurd, and showed us his mighty works. All I could say is that is how great God is.
Not for the money part of this. It is not about monetary things. God let Jaque touch this woman's life, and in return she touched Jaque's, Chris's, Danielle's, Ashley's, and mine. Upon leaving, I told Ashley and Danielle that since day one of Jaque's journey things like this had happened. That God has blessed us every step of the way, and contiues to bless us still. Now in return, we will share this story with all of you, and you will share with who you know, and so on, and so on.
So when asking Jaque what to call our post today, she said "Thank you Jesus." Three little words, three very powerful little words, three life changing/path crossing little words. Love you all and keep up the prayers, you are always appreciated & loved.
Thank you Jesus.
Carol (Jaque and Chris)
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
What if God was one of us?
Yes, this is a stretch, but hang in their with me guys. After a great dinner last night from dad, we all settled in. I was watching the Tennessee game. Thinking about how much I have always enjoyed watching Jaque play ball. Eveything she has ever done has really taken little effort. I know that you all are shaking your head in agreement. Then I got to looking at those girls. Those in the spot that I have dreamed for her all my life. I knew that she could go play college ball, softball or basketball. Easily, because every college coach that has ever talked and spent time with Jaque said her greatest assest is that she is coachable. I looked closely at their faces. I looked to see if they had "it." You know what I am talking about. The "it" that Jaque has. The "it" that draws us near her. You could see it in a few, but not many. And here in the face of her biggest opponent to date, she still has "it."
Jaque got up this morning and had a terrible headache. I made her bacon and eggs. We got her up and around, still without much relief. So we headed to therapy. Pushing her the entire way. She smiled a little when Chris was paying so much attention to getting in his parking space that he almost wiped out a truck in front of us. We all giggled. Then she had her NAVY sweatshirt on and an ARMY dude got on the elevator with us. He smerked at first, then he pushed the button for us, and made conversation with her. He glanced again at her shirt, and then smiled at her.(God is here)
After that, Chris got a washcloth and put it on her head. She was a little down, and her favorite theraphist (pillow spice) texted her about having lunch. (God is here) Then Jason, her friend I have previously written about, arrived. His mom immediately asked about Jaques leg. And then she prayed over her and her legs. (God is here) Then a theraphy dog arrived for her to play catch with.(God is here).
Today I realized why I cannot look for God in one spot. He chooses many to bring a message to us, we just have to be open to recieve it. How many times a day to I miss it because I am too busy? Chris and I took off to the 6th floor to give her some time with her theraphist and the dog. So hopefully she is feeling better.
THE NEWS ON HER LEG is that her DR. Lin (a walking dictonary) feels as though it is inflamation that will reslove itself. So for now, we are just elevating and knowing that God is just working on her one leg at a time. Rest assured that I am watching it closely and measuring it every chance I get.
We are going this weekend on a TR Theraputic Recreation trip. We are going about 45 min North of Atlanta to a hunting cabin. Turkey hunting. Yes, it counts as theraphy. Jaque and two other patients - 3 theraphist - Chris and I - and the other patients families - are all getting to go. She will get to ride in the Ranger, and she might even get to fish. Hopefully the weather will be great. All of you that know Chris and Jaque know that they cannot sit still for long, and surely cannot stay indoors. So I think that this is going to be a great trip.
Well, I know everyone has to get back to school and work, so we love you all. Please know that I will keep you posted as much as I can, and I really appreicate your thoughts and prayers.
Love
Carol (Jaque and Chris)
Jaque got up this morning and had a terrible headache. I made her bacon and eggs. We got her up and around, still without much relief. So we headed to therapy. Pushing her the entire way. She smiled a little when Chris was paying so much attention to getting in his parking space that he almost wiped out a truck in front of us. We all giggled. Then she had her NAVY sweatshirt on and an ARMY dude got on the elevator with us. He smerked at first, then he pushed the button for us, and made conversation with her. He glanced again at her shirt, and then smiled at her.(God is here)
After that, Chris got a washcloth and put it on her head. She was a little down, and her favorite theraphist (pillow spice) texted her about having lunch. (God is here) Then Jason, her friend I have previously written about, arrived. His mom immediately asked about Jaques leg. And then she prayed over her and her legs. (God is here) Then a theraphy dog arrived for her to play catch with.(God is here).
Today I realized why I cannot look for God in one spot. He chooses many to bring a message to us, we just have to be open to recieve it. How many times a day to I miss it because I am too busy? Chris and I took off to the 6th floor to give her some time with her theraphist and the dog. So hopefully she is feeling better.
THE NEWS ON HER LEG is that her DR. Lin (a walking dictonary) feels as though it is inflamation that will reslove itself. So for now, we are just elevating and knowing that God is just working on her one leg at a time. Rest assured that I am watching it closely and measuring it every chance I get.
We are going this weekend on a TR Theraputic Recreation trip. We are going about 45 min North of Atlanta to a hunting cabin. Turkey hunting. Yes, it counts as theraphy. Jaque and two other patients - 3 theraphist - Chris and I - and the other patients families - are all getting to go. She will get to ride in the Ranger, and she might even get to fish. Hopefully the weather will be great. All of you that know Chris and Jaque know that they cannot sit still for long, and surely cannot stay indoors. So I think that this is going to be a great trip.
Well, I know everyone has to get back to school and work, so we love you all. Please know that I will keep you posted as much as I can, and I really appreicate your thoughts and prayers.
Love
Carol (Jaque and Chris)
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Gain weight - yes - Fat leg - NO!
Hey guys. Jaque has been so ready to gain weight, right? Well, she did. Just not what she expected. We woke up yesterday with a little swelling in the left thigh. So, dr looked and was not too worried. Woke up today and it was bigger. It is about 4-5 cm larger than the right leg.
Of course, Jaque is worried. We just got back from an ultra sound on her leg. This test for clots, and blood flow. Prasie God. The tech said that everything looks good on the "blood" front. No clots, no slow flow. So, as much as we wanted to find something quick, it is a blessing that she has very healthy artery and veins in her legs. He told her that he was surprised by the swelling, but that she really looked and sounded great. We are waiting to see what else they may want to look at. I will keep you posted. Hopefully it will reduce on its own. It is so funny to see how sensitive her legs are, and last night was no exception. You all know that at this point she cannot consistantly feel, but let me tell you -- her legs still feel it. The ultrasound guy got such a kick out of tickling her toes. Literally, he got a kick out of it, right on his arm. Too cute, huh?
Now to more important things. We are going on Thursday to find a prom dress. There are two stores here that have the dress she picked out. We are doing this with the TR group. And let me tell you -- the group to go with us is growing by the minute. Of course, pray for Chris. We cannot go with out our fork truck!!
Also, Chris has become a favorite here. Duh! He is the MAYOR, right? He has really been helpful with the tools on the wheel chairs. Rest assured that this accident has not slowed he and Jaque picking on one another. A nurse asked the other day if Jaque always hit her dad that hard, I just said "you call that hard?"
One of the fathers caught me last night and said that he was just talking with Jaque and a group of kids (guys, no doubt). He said that she was sure a charmer. He just wanted me to know that he was so impressed with her attitude, and her smile. he said even when she does not feel good, she can still give a smile. I told him thanks, and I said that is just Jaque. Kissed by God, touched by Jesus, and blessing me here on earth every day of my life.
Dates for you all to remember: We are looking at being home sometime around April 17 - 18. Just in time for Prom. Today, please keep in your prayers those here in ATL at Shepherd that have no faith. Hope and pray that they may gain it. Without faith and family & friends - i cannot imagine.
We love and Miss you all so much.
Carol (and Jaque and Chris)
Of course, Jaque is worried. We just got back from an ultra sound on her leg. This test for clots, and blood flow. Prasie God. The tech said that everything looks good on the "blood" front. No clots, no slow flow. So, as much as we wanted to find something quick, it is a blessing that she has very healthy artery and veins in her legs. He told her that he was surprised by the swelling, but that she really looked and sounded great. We are waiting to see what else they may want to look at. I will keep you posted. Hopefully it will reduce on its own. It is so funny to see how sensitive her legs are, and last night was no exception. You all know that at this point she cannot consistantly feel, but let me tell you -- her legs still feel it. The ultrasound guy got such a kick out of tickling her toes. Literally, he got a kick out of it, right on his arm. Too cute, huh?
Now to more important things. We are going on Thursday to find a prom dress. There are two stores here that have the dress she picked out. We are doing this with the TR group. And let me tell you -- the group to go with us is growing by the minute. Of course, pray for Chris. We cannot go with out our fork truck!!
Also, Chris has become a favorite here. Duh! He is the MAYOR, right? He has really been helpful with the tools on the wheel chairs. Rest assured that this accident has not slowed he and Jaque picking on one another. A nurse asked the other day if Jaque always hit her dad that hard, I just said "you call that hard?"
One of the fathers caught me last night and said that he was just talking with Jaque and a group of kids (guys, no doubt). He said that she was sure a charmer. He just wanted me to know that he was so impressed with her attitude, and her smile. he said even when she does not feel good, she can still give a smile. I told him thanks, and I said that is just Jaque. Kissed by God, touched by Jesus, and blessing me here on earth every day of my life.
Dates for you all to remember: We are looking at being home sometime around April 17 - 18. Just in time for Prom. Today, please keep in your prayers those here in ATL at Shepherd that have no faith. Hope and pray that they may gain it. Without faith and family & friends - i cannot imagine.
We love and Miss you all so much.
Carol (and Jaque and Chris)
Monday, March 24, 2008
Monday, ugh!
Well, here it is Monday. I am upstairs and Jaque is on the 3rd floor. I just finished watching her and her friend Jason play basketball. They both have very similar injuries. They were smiling, and of course aggrevating each other. Then they raced around the court. First time that is what they did, race. Jason is much stronger, so he went around the basketball lines, Jaque went around the volley ball lines. They were neck and neck. The next time around they were doing down and backs. Jaque pulled Jason down, the Jason pulled Jaque back. But always, they ended up crossing the finish line together.
Jason is from FL, but originally from Barbadoes. His mother currently lives in the Cayman Islands. She arrived for the first time in 5 weeks, last Friday. In sitting and talking, it has been a blessing that jason and jaque have been next door to each other through the inpatient, and even now at the apartments.
Jasons father is a Baptist preacher. Here is the kicker -- pay attention -- Jason's mother said that when jasaon had his accident and the Lord spoke to her and gave her a verse for him. She was looking my "Jaque" shirt. She said praise the Lord. That is Jason's verse, Jer 30:17. She said that is why the Lord is putting them together so much.
Yes indeed, praise the Lord. In thinking about them playing ball, it reminds me. At first we are worried about winning, but doing so with our teammates in mind. Then it becomes more about making sure that when you make it to the finish line, your teammate makes it to. Otherwise who will you celebrate with?
All of Jaque's life she has been ruthless on the ball field. Those that did not know her sometimes took offense to this. But for those that know her and were her teammates, they respected her for it and knew that she would do anything for them and for their team. I never left a game thinking that she could have pitched harder, or ran faster, she always has and
will cotinue to give it 110%. The prize is not the trophy, but who is beside you when you get the picture. Her game is getting stronger, but remember that her teammates are the same. It is each of you that read this blog each day. God does not do things to us. But through things that happen, he will bring more to us that we ever imagine.
Thank you for being faithful and reading this blog every day. God is restoring her in his sweet time, and does not want to rush his great work in her. Great things -- that is what I wanted for her, He will do more with her life that I had ever imagined he would. I thank God for allowing me to be her mother, he chose me out of everyone in line, he chose me.
Please be specific in your prayers. Pray for strength, mental and physical. But most of all, pray for HIS will.
Hope you all had a great Easter with your families. We will be home soon enough. In just a moment, we will look up and be home visiting with all of you.
Love and Miss everyone. Will try and get time for Jaque to update a post as soon. And yes, thanks to hep from a special someone, the Easter Bunny did find Jaque all the way out here in ATL.
Carol
Jason is from FL, but originally from Barbadoes. His mother currently lives in the Cayman Islands. She arrived for the first time in 5 weeks, last Friday. In sitting and talking, it has been a blessing that jason and jaque have been next door to each other through the inpatient, and even now at the apartments.
Jasons father is a Baptist preacher. Here is the kicker -- pay attention -- Jason's mother said that when jasaon had his accident and the Lord spoke to her and gave her a verse for him. She was looking my "Jaque" shirt. She said praise the Lord. That is Jason's verse, Jer 30:17. She said that is why the Lord is putting them together so much.
Yes indeed, praise the Lord. In thinking about them playing ball, it reminds me. At first we are worried about winning, but doing so with our teammates in mind. Then it becomes more about making sure that when you make it to the finish line, your teammate makes it to. Otherwise who will you celebrate with?
All of Jaque's life she has been ruthless on the ball field. Those that did not know her sometimes took offense to this. But for those that know her and were her teammates, they respected her for it and knew that she would do anything for them and for their team. I never left a game thinking that she could have pitched harder, or ran faster, she always has and
will cotinue to give it 110%. The prize is not the trophy, but who is beside you when you get the picture. Her game is getting stronger, but remember that her teammates are the same. It is each of you that read this blog each day. God does not do things to us. But through things that happen, he will bring more to us that we ever imagine.
Thank you for being faithful and reading this blog every day. God is restoring her in his sweet time, and does not want to rush his great work in her. Great things -- that is what I wanted for her, He will do more with her life that I had ever imagined he would. I thank God for allowing me to be her mother, he chose me out of everyone in line, he chose me.
Please be specific in your prayers. Pray for strength, mental and physical. But most of all, pray for HIS will.
Hope you all had a great Easter with your families. We will be home soon enough. In just a moment, we will look up and be home visiting with all of you.
Love and Miss everyone. Will try and get time for Jaque to update a post as soon. And yes, thanks to hep from a special someone, the Easter Bunny did find Jaque all the way out here in ATL.
Carol
Friday, March 21, 2008
Easter Weekend
Good afternoon all. Well, almost. Just wanted to let you all know that Jaque has been a little under the weather, but nothing to worry about at this point. She is working hard in theraphy. One of her friends Kelly will be going home this weekend. She is out of the day program.
Jaque was asked to set goals when we got back, her list was lengthy. They were inpressed. We could tell by the visit home that getting mobile is her number one goal. In true Jaque form, she wants to eat and sleep at home, and that is about it. We have been worrying about a lot of different little things, but it is all in God's hands. He has her, and is keeping her close. He is healing her.
Last night, Jaque was asleep, and Chris was too. I was watching TV, and Jaque just kind of stretched. Then (while she was sleeping) she raised her left knee up and prop'd it up on her right leg. Just like that. I watched so intensely. I want to make sure that she was not just having muscle spasms. Of course this morning, she just giggled at me. BUT LET IT RESTORE YOUR FAITH IN THAT GOD HAS BEGUN WORK IN HER, AND CONTIUES TO HEAL HER EVERY MOMENT OF EVERY DAY.
One thing that this has taught us all (as I feel everyone reading this is in this with us) is Patience. I remembered the night of her accident. I went over in my head all that could have happened. All the stories you hear, what could have been. Then I paused, and told the devil to remember that I had no time or interest in him. He needed to leave our room, because he was not welcome. Then I praised God for all the good he does, and is doing.
Would it not be great if we did this in all the conflict in our life? I can see that Jaque truely blesses each life that she touches here at ATL. Although this weekend without you all will be hard, it will be just a moment in our lives that will make the rest of our lives so much sweeter. And rest assured that the easter bunny knows that we are in ATL, and will get that basket delivered.
Grandma's and Papa's - we could not have done this without you. You made us the parents that we are - and you stil bless us in each converstaion. The important things in life are family and friends, and know in your heart that you have done a great job and we are so proud that you are our parents. And yes, our cup runneth over. And over, and over.
I tell Jaque that in life you have two choices, to go down or to look up --- and we are all looking up, and ready to receive God's blessings each day. Happy Easter Everyone, say a special prayer of thanks for God's good work in Jaque, and please be sure and pray for all those here in Atlanta Shepherd Center that cannot be with their family.
Love and miss you all.
Carol (and Jaque and Chris)
Jaque was asked to set goals when we got back, her list was lengthy. They were inpressed. We could tell by the visit home that getting mobile is her number one goal. In true Jaque form, she wants to eat and sleep at home, and that is about it. We have been worrying about a lot of different little things, but it is all in God's hands. He has her, and is keeping her close. He is healing her.
Last night, Jaque was asleep, and Chris was too. I was watching TV, and Jaque just kind of stretched. Then (while she was sleeping) she raised her left knee up and prop'd it up on her right leg. Just like that. I watched so intensely. I want to make sure that she was not just having muscle spasms. Of course this morning, she just giggled at me. BUT LET IT RESTORE YOUR FAITH IN THAT GOD HAS BEGUN WORK IN HER, AND CONTIUES TO HEAL HER EVERY MOMENT OF EVERY DAY.
One thing that this has taught us all (as I feel everyone reading this is in this with us) is Patience. I remembered the night of her accident. I went over in my head all that could have happened. All the stories you hear, what could have been. Then I paused, and told the devil to remember that I had no time or interest in him. He needed to leave our room, because he was not welcome. Then I praised God for all the good he does, and is doing.
Would it not be great if we did this in all the conflict in our life? I can see that Jaque truely blesses each life that she touches here at ATL. Although this weekend without you all will be hard, it will be just a moment in our lives that will make the rest of our lives so much sweeter. And rest assured that the easter bunny knows that we are in ATL, and will get that basket delivered.
Grandma's and Papa's - we could not have done this without you. You made us the parents that we are - and you stil bless us in each converstaion. The important things in life are family and friends, and know in your heart that you have done a great job and we are so proud that you are our parents. And yes, our cup runneth over. And over, and over.
I tell Jaque that in life you have two choices, to go down or to look up --- and we are all looking up, and ready to receive God's blessings each day. Happy Easter Everyone, say a special prayer of thanks for God's good work in Jaque, and please be sure and pray for all those here in Atlanta Shepherd Center that cannot be with their family.
Love and miss you all.
Carol (and Jaque and Chris)
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Back in the ATL!
Hey guys. Sorry for the delay in updating. We are back in Atlanta. We had such a wonderful time at Haworth. It was so great to see all of my friends. My teachers and teammates gave me a birthday party. Then my family got together and cooked for me. When I say family, that does not just mean blood kin, that is so much more for me. I thank all of you that came by and helped cook, clean, and VISIT! I did not want to leave, but know that this is where I need to be for now.
Kelsie and Nina both spent the night with me. It was great. Kelsie did a slideshow ofher and me in ATL and put it to the music "Its a long trip alone", by Dierks Bently. It was perfect. Coach made her famous chicken spagetti, and Presley and Lori brought over the Indian Taco's. The crawfish and fish that Lane, Lindi and Dad cooked were just as good as I remembered. If you see Uncle Lane, ask him to tell your the Crawfish story, you will not be dissappointed. And it would not be right not to thank Grandma Donna, Aunt Belinda, Aunt Emmy, and Aunt Lisa for the great desserts. Courtney and Suzanne always do so much. And Papa Danny mowed moms yard, way to go Papa. Papa Phillip and mamaw Melinda came down and Melinda made good on the Jeff Gordan autograph.
I want to say a special thanks to BO and Lori for all the work on my room. It is looking so good. Also, my uncles Toby and Lane, the guys from Domtar, the fire dept guys, and whoever else from our community that have come to help. I will be sure to give you all a proper thanks when i get back home for good. God blessed me with great people in my life likeyou, and I am thankful for that. I love all.
There are so many people that I got to see while I was home - Deanna, Jordie, Jaron, Jadie, Jarrett, and Jillian -- I miss you all. All my friends from school and those from around town, you guys really know how to pick a persons spirit up!
Couple of funny stories - Dad and I got on the 400 ex and rode. Then we about gave mom a heart attack when he let me ride by myself. Then we all got out the sidewalk chalk and drew - see somethings will never change. All my friends that skipped school - thanks for keeping me busy, it meant a lot to me.
Well, I will try and update again soon. I am in the day program now. It is a solid 8:oo am to 5:00 pm pretty much every day. It looks like we are shooting for me to be home by prom. One of my theraphy classes next week will be to go looking for prom dresses. Yeppie!!!!
A quick note is it is looking good for the insurance company to approve the FES bike. Please keep this in your prayers. It will be very important for my rehab when I get home.
I appreciate your contiued prayers and support. God will get me through this, along with support from all of you. This will be my first Easter ever to not be with my Grandma Donna and Grandma Kay. So you all hunt some eggs for me.
Mom says for me to tell you all that my new nurse said that she has never met a young person with an attitude as great as mine. Mom told her that it was because I have so many friends and so may people praying for me. Praise God for all he does for us each and every day. He and he alone gets the glory.
"For I will restore health unto thee, and I will heal thee of they wounds, so saith the Lord...."Jer 30:17.
Love you all,
Jaque (Chris and Carol too!)
Kelsie and Nina both spent the night with me. It was great. Kelsie did a slideshow ofher and me in ATL and put it to the music "Its a long trip alone", by Dierks Bently. It was perfect. Coach made her famous chicken spagetti, and Presley and Lori brought over the Indian Taco's. The crawfish and fish that Lane, Lindi and Dad cooked were just as good as I remembered. If you see Uncle Lane, ask him to tell your the Crawfish story, you will not be dissappointed. And it would not be right not to thank Grandma Donna, Aunt Belinda, Aunt Emmy, and Aunt Lisa for the great desserts. Courtney and Suzanne always do so much. And Papa Danny mowed moms yard, way to go Papa. Papa Phillip and mamaw Melinda came down and Melinda made good on the Jeff Gordan autograph.
I want to say a special thanks to BO and Lori for all the work on my room. It is looking so good. Also, my uncles Toby and Lane, the guys from Domtar, the fire dept guys, and whoever else from our community that have come to help. I will be sure to give you all a proper thanks when i get back home for good. God blessed me with great people in my life likeyou, and I am thankful for that. I love all.
There are so many people that I got to see while I was home - Deanna, Jordie, Jaron, Jadie, Jarrett, and Jillian -- I miss you all. All my friends from school and those from around town, you guys really know how to pick a persons spirit up!
Couple of funny stories - Dad and I got on the 400 ex and rode. Then we about gave mom a heart attack when he let me ride by myself. Then we all got out the sidewalk chalk and drew - see somethings will never change. All my friends that skipped school - thanks for keeping me busy, it meant a lot to me.
Well, I will try and update again soon. I am in the day program now. It is a solid 8:oo am to 5:00 pm pretty much every day. It looks like we are shooting for me to be home by prom. One of my theraphy classes next week will be to go looking for prom dresses. Yeppie!!!!
A quick note is it is looking good for the insurance company to approve the FES bike. Please keep this in your prayers. It will be very important for my rehab when I get home.
I appreciate your contiued prayers and support. God will get me through this, along with support from all of you. This will be my first Easter ever to not be with my Grandma Donna and Grandma Kay. So you all hunt some eggs for me.
Mom says for me to tell you all that my new nurse said that she has never met a young person with an attitude as great as mine. Mom told her that it was because I have so many friends and so may people praying for me. Praise God for all he does for us each and every day. He and he alone gets the glory.
"For I will restore health unto thee, and I will heal thee of they wounds, so saith the Lord...."Jer 30:17.
Love you all,
Jaque (Chris and Carol too!)
Monday, March 10, 2008
SAFE TRIP HOME
Hey Jaque !!
PawPaw and I are so excited you get to go home in TWO DAYS. You have so many friends and family that are looking forward to seeing you. I know you can't wait to get to school to see everyone too. Prissy and her family, PawPaw and I also regret that we won't be able to be there. Know that our excitement, love, support and prayers are with you and your mom and dad.
I wish you could've been at Andrew's basketball game today. I ask Prissy, what is wrong with Andrew's shorts, they are too big for him. I was going to go and buy him some to fit him if she couldn't afford some. She told me know that those were Jaque's shorts and Andrew wants to wear them because they are Jaques. He looked so cute in them. I got some video of him playing today. He was running down the court with the basketball and made a basket. He is just pretty darn good.
Everyone ask about you everyday. I show your pictures and tell them of your progress
We pray that God will encamp his angels around ya'll for a safe and enjoyable trip home. We pray that you have a wonderful and peaceful stay at home. Keep your eyes on the Lord for he is so good. You are what keeps me going right now. All the improvements that you make and the fact that you are even with us today helps ease my pain of not having CJ here. I know that he also looks out for you and all of us. I love you very much. You are one special little lady and I believe God has great and mighty things in store for you and your life.
Love and miss you bunches
MEME and Paw Paw
PawPaw and I are so excited you get to go home in TWO DAYS. You have so many friends and family that are looking forward to seeing you. I know you can't wait to get to school to see everyone too. Prissy and her family, PawPaw and I also regret that we won't be able to be there. Know that our excitement, love, support and prayers are with you and your mom and dad.
I wish you could've been at Andrew's basketball game today. I ask Prissy, what is wrong with Andrew's shorts, they are too big for him. I was going to go and buy him some to fit him if she couldn't afford some. She told me know that those were Jaque's shorts and Andrew wants to wear them because they are Jaques. He looked so cute in them. I got some video of him playing today. He was running down the court with the basketball and made a basket. He is just pretty darn good.
Everyone ask about you everyday. I show your pictures and tell them of your progress
We pray that God will encamp his angels around ya'll for a safe and enjoyable trip home. We pray that you have a wonderful and peaceful stay at home. Keep your eyes on the Lord for he is so good. You are what keeps me going right now. All the improvements that you make and the fact that you are even with us today helps ease my pain of not having CJ here. I know that he also looks out for you and all of us. I love you very much. You are one special little lady and I believe God has great and mighty things in store for you and your life.
Love and miss you bunches
MEME and Paw Paw
Friday, March 7, 2008
Look out Haworth, here we come!
After spending Jan, Feb, and half of March away from home.....God will lead us back to Haworth on March 14. We are coming home for the weekend, and then return to Atlanta for outpatient on March 16. To say that We are excited would be a mild understatement!
Jaque has received the gift of Nascar tickets for Saturday's race at Atlanta Motor Speedway. This friend also made sure that they were accessible for her - and got her fixed up with a pit pass & tour. How cool is that???? Thanks for giving her this opportunity! We will get pics. Only one question, if a company sponsors Jeff Gordan, would it be illegal to were a Dale Jr hat? lol
As some of you may or may not know, Jaque's Haworth Softball jacket was cut off of her during her accident. She was very upset when she found out about it. Yesterday she got a new one. Thanks to all of those at Haworth High for making this happen, and Mr Wall and Coach Reynolds, thanks for getting it to Jaque. She put it on as soon as it got here.
One last thing, to those of you McCurtain Co athletes and coaches gearing up for slowpitch: We will be back before you know it. And be forwarned, Jaque asked coach if she could be her assistant until she got back on her feet. She told her she could not fire her this time. (she said all that know her and Coach would get a laugh out of that??)
We love you all and hope to see you while we are home. Please feel free to stop by. It will truly bless us to see you and bless you to see the wonderful strides Jaque is making. God is great.
Jaque has received the gift of Nascar tickets for Saturday's race at Atlanta Motor Speedway. This friend also made sure that they were accessible for her - and got her fixed up with a pit pass & tour. How cool is that???? Thanks for giving her this opportunity! We will get pics. Only one question, if a company sponsors Jeff Gordan, would it be illegal to were a Dale Jr hat? lol
As some of you may or may not know, Jaque's Haworth Softball jacket was cut off of her during her accident. She was very upset when she found out about it. Yesterday she got a new one. Thanks to all of those at Haworth High for making this happen, and Mr Wall and Coach Reynolds, thanks for getting it to Jaque. She put it on as soon as it got here.
One last thing, to those of you McCurtain Co athletes and coaches gearing up for slowpitch: We will be back before you know it. And be forwarned, Jaque asked coach if she could be her assistant until she got back on her feet. She told her she could not fire her this time. (she said all that know her and Coach would get a laugh out of that??)
We love you all and hope to see you while we are home. Please feel free to stop by. It will truly bless us to see you and bless you to see the wonderful strides Jaque is making. God is great.
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
Our Day With Jaque
Let me start out saying that I think we have the most amazing Grand-daughter!! Phillip and I set out a week ago last Friday for Atlanta to see Jaque, spent a few hours there on Saturday and left to go to Virginia to see our son Aaron and his family. We started back to Atlanta on this past Saturday and spent most of the day Sunday with Jaque, Carol and Chris, We went to the aquarium and had a great time! The improvement we saw in Jaque from Saturday to Saturday was unbelievable!! She looked great and there were smiles all over the place!! My favorite time was seeing Jaque stand up with the help of Chris and Carol! She had just touched the sting ray and was so excited, as you can see in the pics of the smile she had on her face! It was awsome! Jaque seemed to have a good time and It was great seeing her smile! It also was great to see Chris and Carol having a good time! They are 2 amazing parents and JR to so lucky to have them as they are to have her!! Just to see all 3 of them together is quite a picture! In the pics we made there is one of all three of them that is a little blurry but says alot! Carol and Chris both pushing Jaque in the wheel chair. But that is how they are, One small little family that do GREAT BIG THINGS!!!
Jaque, Papaw and I love you so much and are so proud of you!! We had a wonderful time Sunday and can't wait to see you again soon! We pray for you everyday and who knows what you will be doing the next time we see you!!!! Love you Mamaw and Papaw Hall
Jaque, Papaw and I love you so much and are so proud of you!! We had a wonderful time Sunday and can't wait to see you again soon! We pray for you everyday and who knows what you will be doing the next time we see you!!!! Love you Mamaw and Papaw Hall
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Out and About
Hey guys. We got to get out of this place for a little while this weekend. We went to the Atlanta Aquarium. It was so cool. My favorite part were the otter's. It is the largest aquarium in the world. Also, my dad held me and let me stand up so that I could lean over the rail and touch a sting ray. I was so excited. But I was even more excited because I did not pass out. It is funny all the things I did not think of before. From a wheelchair you can still access everything, you just have to be creative at times. That is when the "human fork truck" comes in to play. Yep, you guessed that it is my dad.
I have been going from about 7 am til dark. It is hard work, but I know it will pay off. I am reading everyones emails and text. Thank you so much. You guys really do not know how much you mean to me! I miss PODUNK Haworth SO much. I stood on what they call a standing table yesterday. First time I felt a tingle down my whole body. Did not last long, but it felt good.
We are suppose to get the bad weather today. Heard you all had it yesterday. I know Sassy must have been scared, she hates storms. I am sure that Jadie and Jarrett are taking good care of her. (bet she is getting fat)
Got to go. My mom says to let you all know that this accident has not slowed me down. I am learning how to pop wheelies!!! So when I get home you all better be ready to learn too!
Keep praying! I am working hard for all of you, and want to make you proud. Love and Miss you. Jaque
I have been going from about 7 am til dark. It is hard work, but I know it will pay off. I am reading everyones emails and text. Thank you so much. You guys really do not know how much you mean to me! I miss PODUNK Haworth SO much. I stood on what they call a standing table yesterday. First time I felt a tingle down my whole body. Did not last long, but it felt good.
We are suppose to get the bad weather today. Heard you all had it yesterday. I know Sassy must have been scared, she hates storms. I am sure that Jadie and Jarrett are taking good care of her. (bet she is getting fat)
Got to go. My mom says to let you all know that this accident has not slowed me down. I am learning how to pop wheelies!!! So when I get home you all better be ready to learn too!
Keep praying! I am working hard for all of you, and want to make you proud. Love and Miss you. Jaque
Saturday, March 1, 2008
Saturday Night
Hey Jaque sorry I haven't updated your blog since I got home. I have been working my doubles at the hospital. When I get off I have been coming home and crashing.
Sure was good to see you last week. I had a blast and was so excited to see how much you have improved.
You are doing so good. Your are an inspiration to me and all the people I have come in contact with. We should all learn from you.
Carol wrote:
We are cleared for the day pass now. We got in the car and found a sonic. We had to drive about 30 minutes to get to it, but she was glad to have a Sonic burger. Then there was some kind of ice cream shop next to it. It was all homeade, and delicious! She had a small part of an brownie sundae and chris had vanilla ice cream in a waffle bowl. You would flip if you saw this place. The cakes they had looked soooo good!
We have to be out of the apartment by Monday but Toomeys mom gave us her last two weeks. She had someone donate an apartment for her that is free. This was such a blessing. They seem to be great Christian people.
Praise GOD for the many blessings we have rec'd since we have arrived here.
This is exciting news. I know it is a great help to you and Chris having extra time before you have to look for a place to stay not only that but it helps with the finances to.
I hear Jaque's room is gonna be awesome. I know that there are numerous people helping with the construction of the room to make ready for Jaque when she is able to come home.
God has truly blessed your family as well as all of ours. I thank God every day for what he has done for Jaque and all the many prayers that he has answered for us.
You have so many people out here praying for you and asking everyday how you are and what is the lastest update.
Better go for now. Will try to do better on updating the blog. I have pictures that I want to put on your blog but have to have more than a few minutes to work on it. I will try to do something on Tuesday when I work off my doubles.
Keep up the good work Pa Pa and I are so proud of you we love you so much. Can't wait to see you again. Miss you so much.
Sure was good to see you last week. I had a blast and was so excited to see how much you have improved.
You are doing so good. Your are an inspiration to me and all the people I have come in contact with. We should all learn from you.
Carol wrote:
We are cleared for the day pass now. We got in the car and found a sonic. We had to drive about 30 minutes to get to it, but she was glad to have a Sonic burger. Then there was some kind of ice cream shop next to it. It was all homeade, and delicious! She had a small part of an brownie sundae and chris had vanilla ice cream in a waffle bowl. You would flip if you saw this place. The cakes they had looked soooo good!
We have to be out of the apartment by Monday but Toomeys mom gave us her last two weeks. She had someone donate an apartment for her that is free. This was such a blessing. They seem to be great Christian people.
Praise GOD for the many blessings we have rec'd since we have arrived here.
This is exciting news. I know it is a great help to you and Chris having extra time before you have to look for a place to stay not only that but it helps with the finances to.
I hear Jaque's room is gonna be awesome. I know that there are numerous people helping with the construction of the room to make ready for Jaque when she is able to come home.
God has truly blessed your family as well as all of ours. I thank God every day for what he has done for Jaque and all the many prayers that he has answered for us.
You have so many people out here praying for you and asking everyday how you are and what is the lastest update.
Better go for now. Will try to do better on updating the blog. I have pictures that I want to put on your blog but have to have more than a few minutes to work on it. I will try to do something on Tuesday when I work off my doubles.
Keep up the good work Pa Pa and I are so proud of you we love you so much. Can't wait to see you again. Miss you so much.
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