Life's Inventory

About a month ago Levi and I had the opportunity to do a photo shoot for a book honoring Cancer Survivors. Some of the women in the book are currently going through treatment and some are a few years out. Each individual had their picture taken with a sword. The sword signifies the triumph over cancer. Levi was included in the photo because of God's hand in protecting my female organs. Last night was the Book Signing for this project. What an honor. The books were sold in conjunction with Memorial Hospital and all proceeds go towards a retreat for women going through treatment.

October 11th marked the 11th year anniversary of the surgery removing the grapefruit sized mass. In the past 10 years I have never been in a room full of women who have walked through cancer. To be in a room full of women who have all walked through chemo treatments, all been sick, all lost their hair and everything else that treatment entails was simply amazing. I loved talking to each woman and hearing her story. I was honored to be in their presence and to see the hand of God in each life. The book is entitled "Life's Inventory: Strength, Faith, Family"

I have never thought of myself as a "cancer survivor". I don't know why, I just don't, I never have. I've always seen that time in my life as a tremendous blessing - it didn't feel like i was trying to overcome something bigger than me. Yes, it was incredibly difficult, I cried many tears, it was scary and overwhelming as times - but God's presence was so strong that I didn't waver. I felt like God was trusting me with something precious. I wanted to make my Daddy proud. One night as I prayed and sat in the Lord's presence I felt like the Lord whispered to me that the wig I wore was a crown that He had bestowed upon me. The Lord was "crowning" me during that time. I wasn't taking that as being exceptional or better than anyone else. It was more like my Heavenly Daddy was smiling down me and I was basking in His adoration. Even now, as I write, it is hard to comprehend. I felt like He trusted me.

This is a part of my story that I am always contemplating what God wanted it to mean. I don't want to miss what He has for me. I don't want others to miss something He has for them because of me. I love when God provides opportunities to use something I learned a long time ago to check where I am right now. I don't want to take life, love, good health, friends, or family...all the simple things in life....for granted.

Only at Grandma and Grandpa's

He's Cute - I Might Be Biased Though :-)

Fun at the Park

Little Walker, Cougher and Giggler

Levi has been walking for quite awhile so I thought I should capture it on video finally!! He is just about to take off for good!!



Levi has been a huge giggler since he was 3 months. I haven't filmed him in quite awhile so I am including a new giggling video! Levi also coughs regularly when he feels he needs a little extra attention...you will see that at the beginning!!

Just Because

John's parents were here for Levi's 1st Birthday:

September 18 - Levi's 1st Birthday!!

Things have been hectic! I put together a movie in celebration of Levi's birthday, John's parents are in town, and we had an awesome party on Sunday for him. I will be posting the video I put together in the next couple days. In the meantime, he are some pics from Levi's birthday!!

Levi did a fabulous job with his mini cupcakes! He loved his audience cheering him on and clapped for himself as he mashed his cake and ate it!!

Fun with the Camera

This morning Levi and I were playing with the new camera (aka: my mom's old camera)!! He is such a cutie pie!! The little guy is getting tons of teeth on the top at the same time - so he has been fairly grumpy but still a joy!!

Aspen

We went to Aspen for Labor Day and had a great time relaxing!! I actually got a couple pictures with Levi! Normally I'm the one behind the camera!!

Swimming

We went swimming with Kelley and Stella today. It was so fun! All the kids are back in school so we had the pool to ourselves!! YEA!!

11 Months

Levi is almost a year old! He is the sweetest, funnest, happiest, most amazing little one ever! :) He makes me want to have more babies right now!! He has two teeth on the bottom, he's been saying 'dada' for a long time now and just started saying 'mama', he also says "hi". He loves people, being outside, swimming and is such a joy.