Miracles happen.

We have had a very busy week! Mom and I painted Scot and Steph's basement on Tuesday and Wednesday. Can I just say that painting with 3 kids ages five and under is NOT the easiest task! However, it was worth it because the basement looks great and the Phillips family loves it!
The kids had a great time playing and we felt SO productive.

On Wednesday, Steph brought us China Wok for lunch and then hung around for a bit before she had to run some errands. We chatted about little things, shared funny stories about the kids and discussed the new decor. For a moment...just a moment...I almost forgot that she is sick. Then I went to throw something away and hanging above the trash can is the Colon Cancer Alliance calendar. Normally I would be able to find the humor in the fact that they call it a "Colondar" but for once, dry humor was lost on me.

I went home and was very quiet. The kids were in bed early so I had a lot of quiet time that evening. I recently read an article about the decline in the number of people who believe in God. It was surprising to me, given our current economic situation, that the number is on the DECLINE. How people deal with the heavy stuff on their own without faith, is beyond me. It outlined different religions and denominations so I went to mine to see what the author had to say. One of the things he pointed out was that we believe in modern day miracles. Hmmm. No one sat me down at church and said, "To be a member here, you must believe in miracles." I just do. I started reading THIS blog when she was pregnant.

(I copied this off of her blog regarding baby Stellan) "In the womb, he was diagnosed with heart failure: premature atrial contractions at 20 weeks; supraventricular tachycardia, hydrops, and intermittent advanced secondary heart block at 23 weeks; and enlargement of the heart at 32 weeks. When the doctors told us at 24 weeks that our very ill baby would surely die, we chose to give our son completely to God, for He alone knows best. We have not stopped praising our Lord since then, for MckMuffin was healed and was born a well and whole full-term baby...with dimples!! "

I am quite positive that these doctors weren't just making all that up. He was a sick baby and GOD performed a miracle in his tiny body. I am POSITIVE that God is working a miracle in Steph's body as well. I KNOW that she will be healed. I just know it. I have never felt something so strong before. I know that so many people are watching. Keep watching. I have faith that you are witnessing a miracle.

I will remember the deeds of the LORD;
yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago.

I will meditate on all your works
and consider all your mighty deeds.

Your ways, O God, are holy.
What god is so great as our God?

You are the God who performs miracles;
you display your power among the peoples.
Psalm 77: 11-14

Next week chemo will be on Thursday. They wanted her to go a day early so she will have a little more time before she takes off for Houston the week of spring break. Keep praying people.
Meditate on His works and trust with all your heart that He will heal Stephanie.

Ode to Stephanie

From Steph's Gonna Win

Today is Steph's 35th birthday! To honor her, I decided to put together a list of randomness about my dear friend for your entertainment. A little "roast" if you will.

1. When I met Steph she had bad hair...of course, I was rockin' some sweet bangs so I really have no room to talk.

2. She is the reason I won the 800 meter at All City in 7th grade. Not because she inspired me with wise words...but because she KICKED MY BOOTY at basketball practice AFTER track practice a few times a week!!!

3. She hates clam chowder.

4. She is the MOST loyal person I know. I mean it.

5. She dislikes the color pink, but will wear it proudly to honor those who have fought or are fighting breast cancer.

6. I still have her autographed basketball card from her days at SMSU. She got me a set of autographed cards of the Lady Bears as well as an autographed ball. I was BIG TIME baby!

7. At SMSU individual camp one year as she was addressing the whole camp over the mic. She saw Ned Reynolds (a local sports personality on KY3) jogging around the track above the court in the old Hammons building. She made us all yell, "KY3! BE THERE!!" Which would have been really great if the station's catch phrase hadn't been, "KY3, is the place to be!" I still chuckle at that one.

8. She vomited the majority of the 18 months she was pregnant with her boys.

9. She is a very private person so she is probably going to kick me in the pants for this. I am actually REALLY holding back here Steph, I promise.

10. They go to River Bluff Fellowship and Drew was the first "River Bluff baby" born within the congregation. They started a MASSIVE trend!

11. She and my mom have very poor navigational skills.

12. She has two of the CUTEST boys you've ever seen.

13. She knows basketball...I mean REALLY knows basketball. She also taught me everything I know about the game.

14. She has an amazing husband.

15. She is my hero.

Steph, I hope you enjoyed your day. I am so thankful that we got to spend a little time together today while our kids ran around like crazy people! When you are feeling up to it...Brian wants to take you out for Sushi ;-) Happy Birthday my friend. Love you girl!

Upward!

Today was our last regular season game for Upward basketball. The kids have a makeup game next week and then we are done! I am so thankful that Miss Jane asked us to participate. I can't believe how much the kids have progressed! Their coaches were wonderful!!! It has been so fun to watch each child gain skills and confidence in a Christian environment. We LOVED it!!!!

This is Drew running out of the tunnel. Obviously, they RUN out to music, a strobe light and fog!

Claire and Drew after the game.

The kids and Papa.

Thanks SO much to Miss Jane, Coach Julie and Coach Angie for everything you did for our kids!!!

bummer.

Yesterday was a beautiful day. The sun was shining and a breeze was blowing. A perfect day to take the kids to the Nature Center while Steph sat and enjoyed some peace, quiet and fresh air. Unfortunately, that didn't happen. Why? Because chemo went all wrong. They are changing EVERYTHING up there right now. Thanks to the new "system" Steph didn't actually get hooked up until noon. The most disappointing part about it was the response they received when they expressed concern about having to wait for FOUR hours to be hooked up.



"Well, you're just gonna have to get used to it."



Really? Does anyone stop to think about the things that she is already having to "get used to?" Steph has gotten used to the ache in her bones after she gets her shots to prep her tired body for chemo. She has gotten used to being terrified of every ache and pain in her body. She has gotten used to wearing a fanny pack every other weekend that continues to send poison coursing through her veins. She has gotten used to feeling terrible every other week. She has gotten used to these things...or at least learned to deal with them. I really wish that being treated like cattle was not something that she and SO MANY other chemo patients had to get used to. These are people who are fighting for their lives! Why wouldn't you treat them like the heroes that they are? Why wouldn't you want to lift them up and encourage them every step of the way? I think I have an idea of why everyone is so disgruntled right now, but you don't really want to get me started on that topic! Anyway, it was very disappointing because things WERE going so smoothly on chemo days which made it just a little easier on our girl.



I did have a wonderful afternoon with the kids. We met Ashley (my sister-in-law) and my niece at the park and worked up a good sweat. Then we headed to the store to get popsicles and stuff to throw on the grill for dinner. Here is Cohen and Drew at the park!

Chemo Day.

Tomorrow is chemo day. If you happened to read my mom's blog you know that her attitude tends to be a little better than mine about chemo day. I am looking forward to tomorrow because we have plans to go on a nature walk with the kids afterward. Steph plans to sit and take in some fresh air, rest and I would imagine she will have some time with God. Please pray for Steph tomorrow. She is dreading chemo. Big time. Lift her up and ask God to give her strength to get through another treatment.

Oh and if you missed the Lady Chiefs game the other night...it was SO EXCITING! Our girls played so hard and that game could NOT have been any closer. They only fell to Nixa by one point. Congratulations girls on a wonderful season!!!

GO CHIEFS!!

Just wanted to say congrats to our Lady Chiefs! They had a big win last night against Ozark and will play Nixa in the championship on Saturday. It must have been the pregame talk they got from a very special guest speaker.....MY MOM! Steph and I, along with so many others, can tell you that her pep talks are the best. We can't wait for the game on Saturday night. NO ONE is as excited as Cohen though. All he has talked about since the game last night is his "girlfriend" who plays for the Lady Chiefs. Oh yes, Madi Miller has been the hot topic today! We were counting like the Count from Sesame Street today and I said, "One batty batty, ha ha ha!" He looked at me and said, "NO momma, one Madi Madi, ha ha ha!" Yup, my boy has his first official crush!

Good luck to the boys tonight as they take on Branson. Roy, if you need a good pep talk, I'm sure my mom is available!!!

Mrs. Brightside

**UPDATE** Just in the last 24 hours, I learned that two more people who are very dear to me have received news that they have cancer. One is breast cancer and another is melanoma. Seriously?

Is it just me, or is cancer EVERYWHERE?! Claire and Drew have a sweet little friend at school who was fighting for his life at the tender age of 2. (He is currently CANCER FREE!! Praise the Lord!) Their teacher Miss Holly lost her husband Jeff to a VERY brave yet very short battle with Melanoma. Another mother at their preschool had breast cancer. A player on an opposing team a few weeks ago had recently discovered that her mother would soon be undergoing treatment for melanoma. Trish Marsh is a friend of ours and coach of one of my AAU teams in Jr. High. She fought stage 3 breast cancer and beat it. Go HERE for a great story about her victory. A former player's mother was diagnosed shortly after Steph with breast cancer. My 8th grade basketball coach Kent Watts is supporting his wife as she battles breast cancer. Too much cancer if you want this girl's humble opinion.

The bright side...the people who I am surrounded by who are battling this disease have done it with such courage. They have faced uncertainty with such grace. They have inspired me and the people around them in ways I never could have imagined. Especially my dear friend Steph. I sometimes break down and ask God, "WHY?" I know that I may never truly understand why, but it is becoming more clear to me as I watch the world around me change. He is using Steph. He knew all along that she would be facing giants someday. He knew. She has been chosen to fight this battle and He knew that she would be strong. He knows that people around her need to see a miracle. She is encouraging people all around her. She encourages me more than she will ever know. Don't just take my word for it. Go HERE and read Michael Stacy's wonderful article in the Springfield News-Leader. Be careful though, it left me in tears. Okay, I lied...it left me "ugly crying." You know what I'm talking about...tears, snot, swollen eyes. The works. I am so proud to call her my friend. Steph, because of you I am a better wife, mother, daughter, friend and sister. Because of you, I CHERISH every single day. You, my friend, are a true hero in every sense of the word.

Please pray for Steph this week. If you are familiar with chemo you know that it makes you feel pretty rotten for days afterward. You also know that it continues to work in your body so skipping ONE treatment won't really do any harm. She made the decision to skip chemo last week. This week is districts. It was very important for her to be at her best for her girls. Unfortunately, she has apparently picked up some sort of bug and is feeling lousy anyway. So pray that she is feeling better by tomorrow night.

Good luck to our Lady Chiefs tomorrow night at districts!!

My Funny Valentine.

Today as Levi arrived at the babysitter's house she was preparing Valentine crafts for the kids. The kids each had a plate with a small amount of red paint and a small amount of white paint. Levi looked at the plate and said, "Oh look! She has ketchup and ranch!" In case you didn't know, the world pretty much revolves around food with us! Here is a little slideshow of my kids. (You didn't think I would let a holiday go by without forcing you to look at pics of my babies now did you?) The song is dedicated to Claire and Drew. It's their fav and they LOVE to dance to it. The "cutie pie" picture is dedicated to Levi from Claire. She INSISTED on having her picture taken with the "cutie pie" heart so she could give it to Levi because that is what she calls him! It's pretty darn cute if you ask me!

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Hope everyone has a HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!

F1.

Dear Mr. F1 tornado,

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for deciding to touch down where you did on Tuesday night. You see, had you swirled just one mile north, you would have hit my dear friend's house. You may not know her but she's got plenty going on right now. Not only is she a wife, mommy, daughter, sister, friend, teacher and coach...but she is kinda sick right now. The last thing she needs is to have her home destroyed by the likes of you. Thank you for being so cooperative.

Sincerely and Fearfully yours,
Chrissy

Smells Like Chemo.

Today was chemo day. I hate chemo day. It means that my friend is hooked up to bags of poison. It means that my mom has a headache. (She has sympathy symptoms for Steph.) Which means that Steph has a headache. It means that once again....it's real. OOooohhhh how I hate cancer. I wish so badly it would go away and Steph could still take Friday's off to have girl time with me and mom. But, you know me....forever the optimist, so I will list a few things that I DO like about chemo day.

It means I get to pick up Drew from school and see the excitement as he and Claire jump up and down with delight and demand that we listen to Michael Jackson's "The Way You Make me Feel."

It means that I get to hug Steph as I return Drew to his rightful owner.

It usually means we get to eat together.

It means I get to hug her again as we leave.

We honestly don't get to spend enough time together so the days when we do get to hang out are precious to me. But it is so hard. Hard to imagine that she is so sick. It is so strange. Strange to think that this is really our way of life now. I look at her and she doesn't look sick. She is so brave and I am not sure if she understands how thankful I am for that. If it weren't for her strength, I would be a mess. I'm working on a post about that, but haven't found all the words I need yet. Please continue to pray for her, especially on chemo days. They.....stink. Which leads me to a story that is a little funny, and a little sad but 100% real.

Drew hugged his mom this afternoon and said, "Mom, you smell like chemo." He then followed up with, "you know like a hospital."

Ugh.

Another thank you note.

Thank you to Claire for screaming, "COHEN IS PEEING BY THE TREE," when we were trying to be discreet about our potty trainer who HAD to go at the park. Thank you to the 25 people at the park who let our kids maul their dogs yesterday on such a beautiful afternoon. (Especially the Millers! I WANT one of those dogs!) Thank you God for that beautiful day. Thank you to the people who throw their cigarette butts on the ground, it is because of you that we have daily discussions about how bad smoking is for your body. Thank you to my skin who seems to think that it is 1993 again and also to my hair who seems to agree...it makes me feel young again. (Note the sarcasm here.) Thank you to the nice lady at Lowes today who thought it was HILARIOUS when Drew bounced off of her booty in aisle 7 even though I warned him and Claire numerous times about the dangers of not looking where you are going. Thank you even more to that lady's husband who laughed even harder than she did and assured us that it didn't phase them....they have 9 kids and 10 grandkids! I am still giggling about it! With so much to be thankful for, I don't have time to do much else. That is my excuse for not cleaning my room right now....I'm too busy being thankful.

Touched by a Tiger.

Tonight we attended our first Lady Chiefs game of the season. It was a GREAT one. The girls played great and were so much fun to watch. I don't remember the score other than the fact that it was in our favor. What I will never forget was walking in and seeing a box on the table next to the nice lady taking money. They were collecting donations for the Stephanie Phillips Foundation. As I approached my dad who was at the concession stand I noticed there was another box sitting there. If that wasn't enough, the nice announcer man came on at half-time and said that the Freshman Lady Tigers would be passing the boxes around and urged everyone to put their spare change and dollars into the box. I sat and watched the girls go around and beg for money and I couldn't help but tear up. How sweet it was to see these girls put competition aside for the sake of a fellow member of this tight knit community. Brian and I had to chuckle when they played the song, "Man, I Feel Like A Woman" by Shania Twain while they were collecting the cash. If you know Steph, you know why it's funny. After the game they presented Steph with almost $700. I was doing just fine until Steph turned around with tears in her eyes. It gets me every time. As we were driving home I told Brian, "If you would have told me 10 years ago that Steph would stand in front of a crowd after a game and cry...I would have told you that you were out of your mind." But I guess that's what happens when you are touched by a tiger.

Thank you Lady Tigers...from the bottom of our little Chief hearts.

**On a lighter note**
We were walking into the Ozark gym and I said, "Claire, you will probably go to school here someday." She perked up and said, "And be a Lady Chief?!" Oh dear.

Double Duty.

I just heard a funny story. (By funny I mean a little unbelievable.) If you attended the Junior Varsity Lady Chiefs game against Central, you know what I'm talking about. Apparently, there was an oversight on Tuesday regarding the officiating situation for the game. There was no one there to officiate the game! Rather than wait for 30 minutes for someone to show up, Steph decided that she would take matters into her own hands! She was a referee for JV and head coach for varsity. I still can't believe that actually happened!

Let's hope we have refs for the Ozark game tomorrow. I will make sure Big Daddy wears his running shoes just in case! Good Luck tomorrow night girls! The Georges will be there (shamefully for our FIRST game of the season) to cheer you on!!! It's the least we can do since you showed up Saturday morning to watch our daughter sit on Nanny's lap and cry!

Super Fans.

Drew and Claire had their second basketball game this weekend. Drew is doing great and loving it. Claire....not so much. She still is very apprehensive. Drew stands out there with his arms up yelling, "I'M OPEN! I'M OPEN!!!" It's really very adorable. The league is so wonderful. They do 3 six minute "quarters" and then at half-time they do a short devotion followed by 3 more six minute "quarters." We talked about how we really admire Miss Jane (the sister of Kathy) for putting in so much time and doing such a wonderful thing for these kiddos. It is something that is building them up as Christians, athletes and individuals. We love it! One of the most impressive things to me so far is this group of girls.

This is a group of Steph's players. Sweet high school girls who are UP and at a game for 4 year olds at 8:30 in the morning!!! I think it says so much about the character of these girls as well as the relationship Steph has with her players. You girls are AWESOME! Thanks for making Drew and Claire's cheering section the biggest and the best!!! Good luck tonight! GO LADY CHIEFS!!!

Is this real?

On Friday after chemo, we had movie day at Nanny's. (My mom) While we waited for Nanny to get home Cohen snoozed in my truck and I sat and watched Drew and Claire play. They were in search of flowers for Claire's wedding bouquet. The settled for "nuts" and went about their business. They found some ivy that was still green and were so excited to find "LUCKY CLOVERS" to wish on! Claire wished for a lifelong friendship with her best buddy Drew and he assured her they would be friends forever. They sat on the little bench wrapped in each others arms and talked quietly. I will never know what they said, but I know they are bonded for life. I hope they never grow apart.

Enter Nanny. We don't need you anymore mommy/Chrissy. Go in. Make popcorn. Turn on Elmo in Grouchland. Use exercise ball...for throwing and bouncing of course. Hit Cohen harder than I planned. He falls face first into a hard toy. Mommy and Nanny should be concerned. Mommy and Nanny laugh uncontrollably while hugging Coco tight so hopefully he won't notice. (Sorry, it's just what we do.) Cuddle with Drew. Turn on Mr. Magoriums Wonder Emporium. Watch half. Give star ratings. Cohen and Drew...4 stars. Claire....1 star. Claire is being difficult. Kids play. Mommy and Nanny talk.

We talked about this situation. Steph has been a part of my life since I was a 6th grader. I can't believe what we are doing right now. Who would have thought that she would become one of my very best friends? Who would have thought that we would marry within months of each other and have our first babies just eight months apart? Who could have imagined that 3 months into my second pregnancy she would, very casually, tell us that Drew was going to be a big brother? I MIGHT have been able to predict all of that especially after she met Scot and he purposed with a fortune cookie. But I can tell you this. I NEVER imagined we would be helping her fight cancer. Mom said as she grabbed a Ziploc bag that Steph has to take with her after chemo she stopped and looked at it. It is labeled "Chemotherapy." She looked at Steph and asked, "Is this real?" Steph asks herself this question everyday. It just doesn't seem possible. Two years ago all the world was right. We both had new baby boys and Claire and Drew were carefree. We talked about pre-school, diaper rashes, tantrums and sibling rivalry. It's amazing how your world can change in the blink of an eye. Now we talk about genetics, chemo, side effects, scans and radiation. I have become borderline OCD when it comes to aches and pains. Right now, my back hurts and I catch myself wondering if there is a tumor causing the pain. I know good and well that it is the fact that I am out of shape and carry a 40+ pound two year old around. I stress about everything that I feed my children. We don't microwave in plastic. It's insane. It just doesn't seem real.

2 Cute.

Happy second birthday Levi!

This kid is awesome. With a vocabulary that won't quit and a weakness for anything Mickey Mouse, he will capture your heart in an instant. Sweet sweet baby, we welcomed you into our circus with open arms two years ago. You squeezed right in and found your place. We love you big boy!

New Information

Steph received a call from Houston regarding the results of the genetic testing they did. Keep in mind, we were told that it was NOT genetic but the docs in Houston weren't convinced. They did some more research and found that it is in fact a genetic mutation that is to blame for her cancer at such a young age. They call it HNPCC-Lynch syndrome. The only thing that has them puzzled is the fact that no one in Steph's family (that she knows of) has had the types of cancer that would indicate this syndrome and it does not skip generations. Needless to say, they are very interested in her case. This news was received with mixed emotion. Because it is genetic, it is less likely to be a random aggressive cancer, which may make it easier to treat. But, as all of you mothers out there know, you never want to pass anything but love, traditions and heirlooms to your children.

On a lighter note Miss Kathy sent these really great pictures of what the boys did while Steph was at her appointments last month in Houston. Again, we are so thankful to have Tim and Kathy to lighten the load during such a stressful time. Thank you a MILLION times over.

Look at these faces....all three of them!! They are having a blast!

Giddy up Mr. Tim!

Happy Boys.

No Chemo Today.

Steph and Mom spent ALL morning waiting to see what Steph's levels looked like. She had been sick last week and just KNEW the shots they were giving her weren't working. She was right. The nurses were completely baffled. They kept telling her, "This NEVER happens." So she won't be having chemo today. They will give her three more shots and she will be doing chemo on Friday which REALLY stinks. Why does it stink you ask? It's Levi's birthday.

They are going to give her a shot on Friday after chemo that is bigger and better than the series of 3 shots she has been getting to keep her levels up. The only problem with that one is that the insurance companies are pretty picky about how they cover it. Maybe it's the $4,000 price tag it comes with. The doctors office is going to call and check it out and they think they will work with them on it.

Continue to pray as God works miracles in Steph's body. I also wanted to wish everyone a happy and HEALTHY 2009! It's a little late but hey....that's how I roll.

I TRUST in YOU.

That is what I kept repeating today. On the way to school, on the way to Target (retail therapy), on the way to Hobby Lobby and even a few times IN Hobby Lobby. I don't even care if the lady in the fabric department thought I was off my rocker. In fact I was kind of hoping she might ask WHO I trusted in, because I have a hunch that lady could have used some good news today! Anyway, it was strange this morning. I didn't feel the need to ask this morning. All I could come up with was, "I TRUST in YOU LORD." I do. I TRUST Him. I TRUST His plan. This is the kind of stuff I used to hear and be so baffled. Where do these people get this kind of faith? I never knew how people made it through such tough times. But now I know. NOW I understand. I wasn't hungry then. I didn't thirst for the Word of God. I didn't know pain so how could I possibly understand the need of something so much larger than myself? Some might say I was blessed...and I was. Blessed because Jesus knew me inside and out. He knew that there was a work to be done in me before he could throw the hard stuff at me. Thank you Jesus.

We were thrilled to find out that the tumor is shrinking. We were starting to (as you could probably tell) get worried. Every time Steph would have a pain, we panicked. So to find out that the cancer has not spread was good news. To find out that the tumor has shrunk....WONDERFUL NEWS! She will continue with chemo for a total of 4 months (possibly 6) and will go back to Houston in two months for another scan. They will then decide if they want to continue with chemo or put her on a "maintenance program" which is a lower dose of the chemo. They also told her that she is a candidate for ERBITUX at some point if needed. This was good news because as many of you know, with colon cancer, treatment options are pretty limited. So we will stay on this course and pray that she won't need the Erbitux....EVER! But it's comforting to know that she is a candidate, just in case.


Now, on a lighter less medical side, let's talk about those adorable Phillips boys. They went to dinner on Tuesday night and then to the ice skating rink. Levi kept yelling, "Put skates on me NOW!" If you know Levi, you know that he is VERY articulate for a 23 month old. He also has a pretty good idea about what he wants! They were afraid that if they put skates on him and let him go, they may never catch him! Drew was so excited about skating. He told Scot, "Come on dad! This could be our own special moment together!" They had to pay extra because when everyone MELTED on the rink, it caused a big mess.



I was so excited to report our news when I picked the kids up from school. The first person I told was a mother of a little guy in Claire and Drew's class. She flagged me down in the car line desperate to know if we had heard anything. She is no stranger to the feeling of waiting for this type of news. Her little guy fought for his life not long ago at the tender age of 2. When I told her she was in tears and we talked about how our children are being changed because of this cruel disease. We agreed that they are seeing God work miracles. I shared with Miss Sandy and she literally jumped up and down and screamed in the car line! Another momma had already gotten the news via my moms original text. It was a VERY happy day in the car line today!



Please take the time to stop and THANK GOD for the work he is doing in Steph. Thank you all for praying and continuing to pray for Steph. You guys are wonderful. Really, you are. Please have a MERRY CHRISTMAS! I KNOW we will!

Sending my love to each and every one of you!

No words.

Wondering where those adorable boys stayed during the appointment today? Well let me tell you. If you recall last time Steph went to Houston she stayed with Kathy and Tim. Kathy's sister Jane flew down with Steph and was so helpful. Well, Kathy and Tim offered their babysitting services so that Scot and my parents could all go. It is so important to have multiple sets of ears during such important appointments. NOW, when I say babysitting services, I don't mean sit and watch them play. I'm talking about playing WITH the boys and truly enjoying them. How do I know this? Because after the appointment Drew said, "Miss Kathy, are you guys going to lunch with us?" She told him she probably would and he replied, "Oh good! You just make my heart so happy!" My mom said they are two of the most amazing people she's met in a LONG LONG time. She said as soon as she looked at Kathy, she just felt the need to hug her. We are a hugging family, but rarely feel the need to hug people we have never met before! I'm not sure that they will EVER know how much we truly appreciate them. The best I could come up with was their very own post!

Tim and Kathy,
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for taking such good care of the Phillips family. For once, I am truly having a hard time finding words here. (ask my family how many times that happens!) So here are a few, in no particular order, that come to my mind.

Amazing, friends, saints, blessing, gracious, sweet, awesome, dear, loving, fun, angels, wonderful and sent straight from Heaven.

Love, hugs and prayers,
Chrissy

This just in!

I just got a text from my mom. This is what it said.

"TUMOR HAS SHRUNK BY 30 OR 40 PERCENT! I'll call as soon as I can!"

PRAISE GOD! This is SUCH great news. God is so good! I will post again later when I get home and talk to them. Thank you so much for praying. We feel your prayers. We REALLY do.

Fun day!

Today is just a fun day. I think most of the gang was headed to the Space Museum. Drew was excited to see the rocketships. My mom is going to spend some time with one of her best friends who moved to Houston years ago. Steph's appointment is at 11:30 tomorrow to find out the results of the scan and discuss how we are going to procede. Please continue to pray and lift her up to the Lord. We KNOW that HE is in control. HE is the almighty physician and we trust in His plan. I am supposed to be the first phone call tomorrow. I will be out and about so I am taking my laptop along. I will most likely stop off at San Francisco Oven (a little plug for our favorite breakfast and lunch place!) and post if I can. If not, I will post as soon as we get home from school which is usually around 1:30. Stay tuned.

For now, I will leave you with some humor. If you know me, you know I love a good bodily function. I don't know why, but toots are funny. So here is a family favorite. Drew has been watching it on my blog and can't get enough! Listen closely, and ENJOY!

Miss you much!

No one has called me today! We missed Drew tonight at basketball practice and at the Christmas program last night. I'm starting to wonder how next year is going to go when Claire and Drew go to different schools. She sure does miss having him right by her side!

From what I understand, we will not know anything until Thursday. But I will continue to pass along what information gets thrown my way. I can't wait until they all come home. I don't like them all being so far away!

Free Entertainment.

It's only 3 months late, but I just did a slideshow of my baby boy and decided to share it with my loyal readers. His two year pics (in the red tie) are by our very own Auntie Karen. Enjoy!

Make a Smilebox slideshow

The Good News

What a wonderful morning it was at Riverbluff Fellowship this morning. Pastor Scott delivered in true Watson fashion. He spoke about the "Good News!" It was, as usual, just what we needed to hear. In our lives we are inundated with bad news. The news rarely reports anything good. The economy...bad news. The war....bad news. Cancer....bad news. Poverty, famine, abuse, neglect....it's all bad news. But guess what? I have some good news for you that will ALWAYS be the same. It will always be GOOD.

God sent His only son to this earth to die for our sins.
We are FREE because of Jesus.

That's some pretty good news. News that we must focus on during the tough times.

I was doing well keeping my emotions in check. Until Claire turned to me and we had the following conversation.

Claire: "Mommy, I want to go with Nanny."
Me: "No, remember we talked about how Nanny and Papa are going with Steph and Scot to the doctor in Houston."
Claire: "Well, then I want to go with Steph."
Me: "No, you can't go with her but when we miss them we can say a prayer for them."

I then diverted her attention to the advent calendar at home waiting for her, and all was well. She then turned to Steph, hugged her tight and said, "I will be praying for you Steph." This momma was so proud. We hugged and loved on everyone and sent the crew off to Houston.

I spoke with them at about 6 and they were 100+ miles from Texarkana which is where they are staying the night. They said the boys are being ABSOLUTE angels. No doubt due to the numerous prayers being sent up on their behalf. They stopped in a little town at a flea market because they saw Santa. Drew wanted to get out and talk to him. He came back to the truck and reported that Santa talked really funny. (They were in Arkansas!!!)

I will be posting updates often. In the meantime, I will be cuddling up with my family and trying to stay warm. I just got home from the store where I bought WAY too much food in anticipation of a storm! (Which by the way, I shopped with the entire town of Ozark this evening!!)

O Come all Ye Faithful!

I was so excited to have lunch with my mom and Steph on Thursday. Steph seemed to be feeling much better. We enjoyed a quiet lunch at San Francisco Oven and discussed what we will be getting our big strong men for Christmas. (Besides our undying love of course.) Mom and Steph had just returned from taking Drew to the doctor. I wish I could say that it was just for his flu shot. But it wasn't. As he likes to say, "I am having potty issues." They are did a renal ultrasound on him yesterday. They are supposed to call Steph next week with the results. Please pray that this is nothing. Because....really? I keep telling myself that God never gives us more than we can handle. I know this is true. But is it possible that God may have overestimated us a little here? Just wondering.



Today I was very excited to hear that Steph's spirits seem to be much better. It is so hard in the world of cancer to stay positive. We are surrounded by it. But everyday, we make a choice. Are we going to let fear get the best of us? Some days, yes. It happens. We are only human. But most days, we choose to put our faith in God and trust in His divine plan.



Tomorrow we would like to invite ALL of our readers to Riverbluff Fellowship to enjoy a morning of worship. My parents will be picking up the Phillips family and bringing them to church. They will all leave from there to head to Houston. Steph will be rescanned and we will have a better idea of how the chemo is working this time around. I can't think of a better way to send them off than a morning with Pastor Scott Watson and the rest of our Riverbluff family. So please join us at 10:00 am at Riverbluff Fellowship. They can be found at the corner of Evans and Thetford Roads in Ozark, Missouri, just West of US Highway 65. Take the Evans Road exit. Come early for coffee and donuts! I hesitated to post this because I know there are crazy people out there who stalk blogs and steal kids. But, I'm going to trust that the Lord will keep us safe. And if you are a crazy stalker who wants to steal my kids, please just sit through the service first and I can almost guarantee that you will leave a changed person...so no need to steal the children. PLEASE PLEASE join us! Then, if you REALLY want to church it up tomorrow, you can head across the highway to James River and catch the 11:30 Christmas service. It's the place to be if you like Christmas music and worship! Please just consider coming tomorrow to RBF. Does it sound like I'm begging? Well I am. Just do it. Now I'm being bossy. I come by that honest, just ask Steph!



Steph,

I'm praying with all my might sister.

Love,

Chrissy

Sick and Tired....

of being sick and tired. Chemo this week was not good. Steph is very sick and we all are very anxious for her appointment on Monday. My mom and dad will be going with Steph, Scot and the boys to Houston this time. They are driving up on Sunday afternoon. She will be scanned again and I think will get the results sometime soon after that.

Please pray for healing. Pray for safe travels for my family. (By family, I mean Steph, Scot and the boys too!)

I will keep you updated as I get news.

A Baby Changes Everything.

I'm not sure if you have heard the new Christmas song by Faith Hill, but it's very good. Here's the video. There is an ad at the beginning, but it's worth it.



Drew loves this song. He makes my mom turn it on as soon as they get in the car. This morning, they were listening to it on the way to school. He said, "Hey Nanny." My mom looked up in her mirror to see what he wanted. Keep in mind, his big brown eyes and LONG lashes can melt your heart in a second. She said, "Yes Drew?" He sweetly replied,

"I was a baby once, and I changed everything."

Yes you did buddy. Yes you did.

Update

Steph is feeling VERY sick. Please pray a little extra today. She is taking Neupogen injections to try to keep her counts up (white blood cells). If they are too low, she is not able to have treatment. Please just lift her up in prayer. Oh how I wish there was more I could do, but for now....just pray.

5 Years ago....

was an absolute blur. Drew was just a week old and in the hospital in St. Louis. (For those who don't know, Drew was born with Pulmonary Atresia and a small right ventricle. A Helicopter ride the first day of his life, a series of surgeries and medication every 4 hours for a long time.) I remember taking turns going back and holding his hand. I remember praying more than I ever had in my life. One night I was sitting with him staring at his puffy little face and touching his soft skin. I was just getting ready to walk out so Steph or Scot could come back and he opened his eyes. My stomach dropped. What do I do? I was so torn! I wanted so badly for his mom and or dad to be there, but I didn't want to leave him alone while he was awake. I knew that he would never remember it, but I just couldn't walk away. So I sang to him (You are my Sunshine)as his eyes slowly shut again. It is a moment I will never forget. It wouldn't be much longer and they would wake him up and he was able to come home. I remember telling my mom, "I'm not ready to get pregnant yet." I was ready for a baby, but was I ready for something like this? God knew. He knew that this sweet boy was going to be a huge part of my life. He also knew that this little angel would need a buddy to grow up with. HE knew what I didn't. I was already pregnant. I watched Drew 2 days a week at their house and the others mom and I watched him at the bookstore in our little nursery we set up in the back. The two days when I watched him, we napped together on the couch. He would lay on my chest until my belly got too big and we took some GREAT naps. It was so funny when he would be sleeping and I would see his arm or leg pop up because Claire was kicking him!

He was the talk of the basketball community around here. The Lady Chiefs and their families LOVED that child but also understood the importance of keeping their distance and slathering up in Purel before they even looked at him. Due to his dramatic entrance to the world, we never did get birth announcements made....but we figured a picture on the front page of the USA Today was way better anyway. (When his momma's Lady Chiefs were ranked nationally!)

He has grown into such a handsome little dude. He is smart and incredibly witty. He is the most observant child I know. He met me at the door last week and said, "Chrissy, did you know you are wearing Nanny's boots?" I was wearing boots JUST like a pair my mom has (she was not wearing them at the time) and that was the first thing he noticed! He has been known to walk into a room and say "Oh, I like what you did with that shelf!" Seriously?

I am blessed to be a part of his life. I was taking him home about a month ago and had already dropped the kids off at Grandmas. I started asking him questions.

Me: Drew, what do you want to be when you grow up?

Drew: Tall just like Brian. (My husband who is 6 ft. 9 in.)

Me: I mean what do you want to do to make money?

Drew: Coach my Daddy's football team.

I had to fight the urge to pull over and kiss his face off!

Drew,

We love you to the moon and back!

So sorry!

I've been a little behind on my blogging. If you want to know where I've been, check my blog. I won't put any details on here because I don't want to make anyone TOO jealous. Steph didn't have treatment until Friday of last week because her counts were too low on Monday. They spent some time in urgent care with Levi, but due to a bad connection in Mexico, I didn't get the details about what was going on with him. Man....I am seriously slacking. I DO know that we celebrated Drew's 5th birthday on Sunday!! I wasn't able to make it because I was unpacking my Texas bag and packing my Mexico bag and heading out. Claire went with Nanny and was excited for Drew to open his new basketball shoes that match hers! The kids are starting Upward Basketball next week and we are really excited about it. (Jane, please know that I haven't forgotten that I owe you guys money!!) I'm such a dork. Hope everyone is getting excited for Thanksgiving!

Thinking of you.

Dearest Stephanie and Mom,
As I sit here this morning watching JoJo's circus (trust me it is a much welcomed hiatus from Alvin and the Chipmunks!) my thoughts are with you. I know the two of you are sitting in the all too familiar "chemo room" and I wish you were here instead. Steph, I am thankful today that you are getting the chance to fight. I wish like crazy that you didn't have to....but I'm thankful that you have the chance. Much love to my two best good friends.

Love,
Chrissy

I Found This....

while reading this blog which I found through this blog which I follow because of this couple who are currently recovering from an airplane crash in August.

Hope is the anticipation that the outcome will be good.

Worry is the anticipation that the outcome will be bad.

Faith is the anticipation that whatever the outcome, it will be for our good.

amen.

Beware...not a "feel good" story.

Last summer, my mom recalls sitting by the pool watching the kids play. Steph was opening some mail. She opened one of those solicitations from a cancer foundation of some sort. She told my mom that she felt compelled to donate to avoid tempting fate. She did and well, you all know how well that worked out. SO, on Tuesday Steph's phone rings. The lady on the other end is from that particular foundation and is asking for another generous donation this year. She then proceeds to go into great detail about how the chances of beating cancer are getting worse and worse. Something along the lines of "Cancer is SO HORRIBLE and people are DYING AS WE SPEAK!" She then asked Steph if she knows anyone with cancer. Steph's reply was something like this. "As a matter of fact...I HAVE CANCER and I just want to thank you for the amazing pep talk there lady. I'm sure you can understand why I am not in the position to donate at this time and I am thankful for all the OTHER people you are helping today." (My thought: Yeah! Because you certainly didn't do anything for me or my mood!) Sheesh.

The latest

Steph called from Houston after her appointment this morning. She asked my mom, "How do you feel about more chemo?" My mom, forever the optimist, says, "OH sure! I've missed the bonding time with you!" Steph doesn't share her enthusiasm but appreciates it nonetheless. They found another tumor on or around her ovary. It is 2x3 centimeters so they don't want to remove it surgically because there is a very good chance there is more cancer around the area that is too small to show up on the scan. The tumor was not there in April. However, the last scan that was done in Springfield did not go down far enough to tell if it was there then.

So, it's more chemo. The good news is that the chemo will be different so hopefully she won't experience the numbness and sensitivity to cold like she did last time. The bad news is, she gets to go back into full on tourist mode with a fanny pack! She is very anxious to get home and thanks to Stan (her pilot), Dan and Shelly...she will be doing so tonight! I will leave you with this.

JESUS DRAW ME EVER NEARER
Jesus, draw me ever nearer
As I labor through the storm;
You have called me to this passage,
And I'll follow, though I'm worn.

May this journey bring a blessing.
May I rise on wings of faith;
And at the end of my heart's testing,
With Your likeness let me wake.

Jesus guide me through the tempest
Keep my spirit staid and sure;
When the midnight meets the morning,
Let me love You even more.

May this journey bring a blessing.
May I rise on wings of faith;
And at the end of my heart's testing,
With Your likeness let me wake.

Let the treasures of the trial
Form within me as I go -
And at the end of this long passage
Let me leave them at Your throne.

By Keith and Kristyn Getty~ Ireland.

This poem reminded me that God is forever faithful. As we fully trust in His plan, He will use each experience to mold us in His image. We MUST trust in Him. Have a blessed day!

Prayer Request

If you are looking at this on Monday morning, please take a second and pray for peace for our dear friend. She texted my mom this morning from the doctors office and said she was very nervous. Please just pray that she finds peace in her heart this morning. I will post as soon as I hear anything. Should be sometime today. I am actually spending the entire day at home today so I will be close to my computer. Stay tuned and keep praying!

Houston Appointments

Just wanted to post a quick note updating everyone. We basically have gotten no news yet. On Thursday they didn't have the scan results yet. They want to do further genetic testing so they did that yesterday. We will find out more on Monday regarding those results and the results of the scan. We did find out something interesting. When she had surgery last year, they took out her appendix! How's that for a surprise? I guess she didn't need that ol' thing anyway! I will post more later but I must run now! Thank you all for your continued prayers!

Refiner and Purifier

I found this entry on THIS blog that I read often. I thought it was worthy of a post.

Malachi 3:3 says: "He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver."

This verse puzzled some women in a Bible study and they wondered what this statement meant about the character and nature of God.One of the women offered to find out the process of refining silver and get back to the group at their next Bible Study.

That week, the woman called a silversmith and made an appointment to watch him at work. She didn't mention anything about the reason for her interest beyond her curiosity about the process of refining silver.As she watched the silversmith, he held a piece of silver over the fire and let it heat up. He explained that in refining silver, one needed to hold the silver in the middle of the fire where the flames were hottest as to burn away all the impurities.The woman thought about God holding us in such a hot spot then she thought again about the verse that says: "He sits as a refiner and purifier of silver."She asked the silversmith if it was true that he had to sit there in front of the fire the whole time the silver was being refined.The man answered that yes, he not only had to sit there holding the silver, but he had to keep his eyes on the silver the entire time it was in the fire. If the silver was left a moment too long in the flames, it would be destroyed.The woman was silent for a moment. Then she asked the silversmith, "How do you know when the silver is fully refined?" He smiled at her and answered, "Oh, that's easy - when I see my image in it."

If today you are feeling the heat of the fire, remember that God has His eye on you and will keep watching you until He sees His image in you.

Get comfy...it's gonna be a long one!

Here are a few pictures from the "Steph's done with radiation celebration" that I managed to get my hands on!

Scot giving Steph some lovin'!!


Scot, Steph, Cheryl and Kenneth


I have been waiting for a meeting with my mom about what to post, but it seems as though there is at least one little person demanding our attention so we rarely have a full conversation! So I am going to post what info I have in order to keep everyone up to date.

Steph will have an appointment in Houston on October 8th. This is a Wednesday and she will basically be doing tests. Then Thursday she has an appointment with the doctor where she will, I believe, get the results of these tests and a plan for the future. The people in Houston have said that they are not in the business of giving second opinions, they are in the business of treating people with cancer. So we are very hopeful about the appointment and are very anxious to hear what they have to say.

Now the logistics. I'm not sure who is going with Steph to Houston. She has had MANY MANY offers from so many people and we can't thank you all enough for your loving support. My parents will be in Vegas all next week and Steph INSISTED that they not change their plans because she knows how important it is for them to get some quality alone time together as well as with my Uncle Bobby and Aunt Donna. If you know my family, you know that time with them is ALWAYS exciting! We cherish our Oklahoma family and treasure the time we get to spend with them! Steph has also insisted that Scot stay behind with the boys. She wants them to have their Daddy at home with them each night to maintain some sense of normalcy. Scot, being the amazing husband and father that he is, will stay behind and "hold the fort down." He will also be depending on the help of his family as Nana (Scot's mom Joyce) will be there to take care of the boys during the day. I'm sure that Grandma Edna, Papa Larry, Papa JL, Oma, Papa Ed, and Granny Pam will be pitching in like they always do!

While Steph is in Houston, she will be staying with a wonderful family who lives close to the hospital. Please forgive me, I have forgotten their names. I will use the excuse that I am still so amazed at the kindness these people have shown us and I am simply overwhelmed. They are very familiar with the hospital so they will provide rides to and from her appointments as well as opening up their home to someone they have never even met! When I get more info about them, they will be the proud recipients of their very own post!

Now I'm going to get mushy. There are some people who deserve a lot of recognition and I plan to do that now.

Scot,
I feel like you often get left out of the blogging. Knowing you, you are probably rolling your eyes at me because being the center of attention is not your thing. But you deserve some serious praise. I marvel at the amount of stuff you do in a day. What is even more amazing to me, is that you just do it. You don't complain (from what I know!) and you just get it done. I also have it on good authority that you do laundry. Pretty impressive! You are in this fight too and I hope you know how much we all love you.

Dad (Kenneth),
You have been so wonderful through this whole thing. You are there for everyone when they need you. You have welcomed another man into your home every single day and allowed him to take over the attention of your wife. (Drew, you are a lucky little man!) And don't think I don't notice that you are truly growing in your walk with God along this path. I'm proud to call you my Dad.

Mom (Cheryl),
I think you know how I feel about you so there's no need to pull out the big guns tonight. I know Steph feels the same way. I love her like a sister and I am so thankful that she has you to be with her during all the appointments as well as taking care of Drew. I love being stay at home moms together!

Brian (my husband),
Thank you for allowing me to sit here and type away while you watch Project Runway. (He's gonna love that I included that!) But seriously, you are my rock. When things get too tough, you offer me that big strong shoulder to cry on and that's all I need. You make my dreams come true everyday. You know when I've hit my limit and are always so very understanding. I remember seeing you in the gym at Cherokee Jr. High at 7th grade orientation. It was love at first sight. (for me anyway...I don't think you even noticed me until at least a year later!) I still can't believe that you are my husband and I am the mother of your children! I love you to the moon and back!

To Steph and Scot's families,
Edna, Larry, Ed, Pam, Joyce, Mike, JL, Cheryl and all of the brothers and sisters. Thank you all for helping out with the boys. They are truly blessed to have such a HUGE support system. Family is such a gift and you are each so very important to all of us. I know I'm not technically related, but we have a habit of adopting people....so consider yourselves adopted!

Pastor Scott,
You will never know how much you mean to us. You married Brian and I. You were in St. Louis to pray over Drew as he fought for his life. You were there to dedicate Claire and Drew in one of the most beautiful and touching dedication ceremonies I have EVER seen. You were there the day that I came forward and made a commitment to Christ. You dedicated Levi to the Lord and you were on my mind the day that Cohen was dedicated by Pastor John at our new church. You have been there for the big things, but most importantly we know you are always available for the small stuff too. You were the first person we called when we learned about Steph's cancer and offered prayer and your usual message of encouragement. We love you and thank God for putting you in our lives.

Our River Bluff family,
I miss you! Even though Brian and I are attending another church, we still think of you all very often. You will always hold a special place in my heart because you were my first church home. There are so many wonderful people there and we can't thank you enough for your unwavering support and countless prayers. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

To the blog readers,
I never thought in a million years that this blog would become what it is. Thank you all for your prayers, support and kind words. We feel your prayers working and sincerely thank each and every one of you. May the Lord bless you.

WHEW! I feel better! I read back over my post, and am reminded at how truly blessed I am to be a part of this journey. In the words of my sweet baby girl, "My heart is all filled up...with love for you." Yes, that means you.

Too much time on my hands...

or am I just REALLY good at wasting the time I do have? Either way, Brian and I stayed up WAAAYYY too late last night making funny pictures. Here are a few.


Steph and Scot

Create your own FACEinHOLE

Levi

Create your own FACEinHOLE

Me and Brian

Create your own FACEinHOLE

Drew and Claire

Create your own FACEinHOLE

Cohen

Create your own FACEinHOLE

Me and Brian again

Create your own FACEinHOLE

Brian

Create your own FACEinHOLE

Sending Stuff to God

Today after gymnastics, we decided to eat at Red Robin. When we left, the kids each got a new shiny balloon. Claire had hers in hand (which is huge because she used to have a major phobia about balloons with helium) and said that she would like to send it to God. We decided that we would wait until we got home, write a prayer on it and send it on up. Here is the prayer she wanted to send to God.

Of course brother has to share the love too!

Cohen waving to the balloons.

Steph, we love you with all our hearts. We are blessed to call you friend and to be a part of your brave fight in which we KNOW you will be victorious. WE BELIEVE! We are praying each day that God heals you. We are also praying for safe travels to and from Houston. I feel it in my heart....remission...I feel it.

last days of summer

The past few days have been such a treat! Mom and Dad turned on the heater in their pool to take the chill off and we declared Wednesday and Thursday POOL DAYS! We decided to take full advantage of the warm weather, as we know those days will be gone very soon. We are very much looking forward to the cool crisp days of October, but want to make sure to enjoy what warm days we have left. Notice Drew and Claire in their "spidey suits" and rain boots. If you know Claire, you are familiar with her rain boot obsession. Other faces you may or may not recognize....Miss Alivia Jane (the one with the beautiful blue eyes and great tan from St. Thomas!) and "Lella" (actually Ella, Cohen's little buddy from next door is riding in his car with him.) Hope everyone is enjoying the beautiful weather as much as we are! Oh, and I have an update that I am working on. Steph's appointment in Houston has been rescheduled for October 8th and 9th. More details very soon!

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Another Stephanie

During the past year as we have watched Steph in the battle for her life, we have come across people who are just down right special. People who were friends or even acquaintances that have basically become like family to us. One of those people is Miss Leah from school. She sent me an e-mail yesterday to request prayer for a friend of hers. And any friend of Leah's is a friend of ours so I wanted to share a little about her story and encourage you to visit her page and pray for her full recovery. She is a young mother of 3 beautiful children (her baby girl was just born in August) and she is fighting a very rare type of Lymphoma. Take a minute to check out her blog www.stephanievest.com.

Thanks a lot Ike.

This is the last e-mail I got from my mom. She e-mailed me from home because we rarely get to have a full conversation over the phone! So here it is!

Hi Everyone!Update on our plans! Last night, one of my best friends, that lives in Houston (Teresa) called and said that they were saying on the news that M.D. Anderson was closed because of water issues. So, I picked up the phone and called the hospital and actually reached a person! She told me that they would be making a decision at noon on Sunday if they were going to reopen on Monday. So on Sunday morning we updated Dan (the pilot), apologized for being such a pain because we've only changed plans 57 times! He was his usual wonderful, pleasant self and said no problem! At 10:30 I went ahead and called just to see if maybe someone already knew something. I was on hold for 10 minutes and talked to a really nice girl who when I asked how she was doing she informed me she had been there since Thursday and that a tree had went through the back of her house and she just wanted to go home! She said they were in a meeting at that moment to decide whether they would be open for appointments tomorrow and to call back at noon. I thought I would try, didn't work! I just felt so bad that we weren't giving Dan much notice. At noon, I called and was on hold for 20 minutes. The lady I talked to this time said that they were not having appointments Monday and to call back tomorrow to see if they might be on Tuesday. At this point, Steph will just have to call and try to reschedule. I will let you all know when we have plan #58!

Love,Cheryl

So there you have it! I will post as soon as I hear anything new!

I just remembered...

something Drew said (actually sang) the other day and had to share. I had picked up the kids from school and we were headed into our house. Drew hopped out of the truck and was singing, "I've got peace like forever, I've got peace like forever, I've got peace like forever in my soul!" (I've Got Peace like a River) Love that kid.

This afternoon...

was so wonderful and uplifting. I can't say thank you enough to everyone who came and supported Steph and her family. The prayers were beautiful and so heartfelt. The best part of the afternoon was before we started praying and Pastor Scott was asking people to pray for certain things. He asked who would like to pray for safe travels. We hear a little, "I will" come from the couch. It was Drew. Bless his stinkin' little heart! I love that kid! We felt every single prayer today and we know so many of you were there in spirit. The members of Steph and Scot's church will be having a time of prayer at 2:00 pm on Sunday. They are asking everyone to take time out on their own and pray for the Phillips family. God will hear our prayers!

Call to Prayer

For those who are interested and able, we will be meeting at 4:30 tomorrow afternoon (Friday the 12th) for a time of prayer in preparation for Steph's appointment on Monday. We will meet at the Phillips house with Pastor Scott and our families. If you can't come and wish to participate, please join us in prayer wherever you are. If you would like to join us and need directions just shoot me an e-mail and I would be happy to give those to you. If we hear anything regarding her appointment and the hurricane, I will let you know. She hasn't heard anything yet so we are assuming the appointment still stands.

Appointment

Steph's appointment in Houston is on September 15th at 7:00 am. We really don't know much right now, but I personally have a really good feeling. I told Steph that I have a sense of peace right now that I haven't had in quite a while. I'm not as anxious as I usually am about this appointment. Not sure why....it just feels different...in a good way. If I learn anything new I will pass along the info. Until then, pray that God will heal our dear friend!! Love and Prayers!

Whatta Woman!

I received an e-mail today from our good friend Holly. For those who don't know, Holly's Husband recently lost his brave battle with melanoma cancer. I stand amazed at how graceful Holly has been during a time of complete tragedy. She is so brave and continues to be a pillar of strength for her two beautiful little girls. She made it her personal goal to make her and Jeff's dream of an urgent care clinic for cancer patients a reality. She is well on her way and here is the message I had waiting in my inbox today.

Hi Everyone!

I just wanted to share the good news that with the help of the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, we are now officially The Jeffrey A Melton Urgent Care Cancer Foundation. Anyone who wishes to donate or sponsor can do so through the CFO. We are on the way!

Thank you all! Looking forward to Tuesday night--the 9th, at the Gillioz.

Holly

Please take a moment to visit her blog and read about the upcoming benefit at the Gillioz. The Meltons are a very special family who will always hold a special place in our hearts. My heart is filled with pride to even know Holly. I am blessed to call her a friend.

I did it...

now it's your turn! I finally had my debit card and computer in the same place and put MY money where my mouth is. So our team has now raised $50.00. I know we have a few thousand people who look at this blog so I dare you all to donate $2.00. That's it....$2.00. That won't even buy a tank of gas!!! So why not put it towards finding a cure for cancer. Just 2 bucks. Come on, you know you want to. All the cool kids are doing it! HERE

There's really nothing to say here.

Prayers

This morning at church my mom had a great conversation with our good friend David Potter. He and his wife (hi Misty!) and their family pray for Steph every single day. They pray ONE prayer. They pray that God will HEAL Stephanie. He suggested (and we all agree) that we should all be praying for the exact same thing. So from here on out let us pray that GOD WILL HEAL HER BODY. HE is the all mighty physician and HE can perform miracles. So let Him hear our prayer. Please Lord, heal her. I have faith and I know nothing is impossible with God. No prayer is too small or too big for Him. Just keep praying that simple prayer....I know she feels them. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

Still no appointment with MD Anderson. She called Friday and they said that her case is still under review. She should hear back this week. As usual, I will keep you posted!

Stand Up To Cancer!

While we wait for news from M.D. Anderson about an appointment, I have a challenge for you. I'm sure many of you have heard about the Stand Up To Cancer campaign. If not, you can go to http://www.standup2cancer.org/ and read about it. The nationally televised and commercial free show will be on September 5th. It is supposed to be big! SO I have started a team in honor of our dear friend Stephanie. I'm not asking for major amounts of money. I KNOW how many people look at this blog and I felt it was my duty to provide an easy way for everyone to donate. Let's be a part of something HUGE! WE can and WE WILL make a difference! Go HERE and donate. Then e-mail me (if you want) and let me know who you are honoring with your donation. If you want to send pictures too, that would be wonderful! I would love to put together a slide show honoring EVERYONE we know who has battled this cruel disease. I want to recognize their heroic battles! Let's do this!!!!

Sherrie's Father

They found Sherrie's dad yesterday and he his no longer alive. He was found between his property and the neighbor's. It is now being investigated as a crime scene.Please continue praying for the Hake's as their lives continue on.

Please Pray

...for John Hamrick. He is the father of one of the sweetest women in our Women's Bible Study, Created to be his Helpmeet. He has gone missing. His truck was found this afternoon with license plates switched out and more things that I just won't list here. Please pray that he is safe and just hasn't made it home yet. Please pray for peace for Sherrie and her mom and Sherrie's daughter Miranda, who just want him home.

Results

Okay, I know I said it might take a few days but this is a little ridiculous right? I have an excuse, but you know what they say about those. Last Thursday was not a good day. The way it sounded was that there was another reduction in cancer activity and there was more cancer down in the colon area. NOT what we wanted to hear. HOWEVER, when she went to see Dr. Edwards on Tuesday it was a different story. He informed Steph that the tumor they have been working on in the chest region was COMPLETELY GONE! Gone, not there, absent, disappeared, outta here....just plain ol' gone! Then he mentioned removing the other tumor. Steph questioned him because she understood on Thursday that they wanted to do a biopsy. Dr. Edwards said that because it was so small (just the size of a grape) that it wouldn't be that big of a deal. AND he said that it was in a really odd place which leads him to wonder if it is even cancer and not just scar tissue. At this point we were all a little frustrated because we can't understand how we can get so many different stories all at once. So Steph asked for a referral to M.D. Anderson. We are waiting on that and she will be headed down there as soon as we get word of when her appointment is. Keep praying that the "grape" is nothing more than scar tissue and that the appointment in Houston goes well. A HUGE thank you to Dan and Shelly who will be providing travel to and from Houston. Thank you doesn't even begin to express our gratitude for your kindness and love. From the bottom of our hearts thank you.