Monday, February 1, 2010

Tonight in Ozark

The Lady Tigers wore brown and gold. They passed a bucket to raise money for the Stephanie Phillips Foundation. The announcer told everyone about the fundraiser next week every chance he got. They were kind and sweet....


and they looked good in brown and gold!
We realized later, that the Hillcrest Lady Hornets were wearing these shirts in support of Steph.


To say the evening was touching....would be an understatement. Thank you.

Saturday, January 30, 2010

Monday Night

Got this e-mail a few nights ago and wanted to share.

The Ozark Lady Tigers will be holding a fund raiser for Stephanie on Monday, Feb 1, 2010, during the Ozark vs Hillcrest Girls Basketball game. The girls will be wearing Kickapoo colors during warm ups to honor Coach Phillips. I know that Kickapoo has a game the same night, but if you could spread the word around to let people know to come out and "Kick the Poo out of Cancer for Coach Phillips"
Keeping Stephanie and her family in our prayers.
-Ozark Lady Tiger Parent


So if you are in the area, stop by and show your support! I will be there with my future Lady Tiger!

Wednesday, January 27, 2010

News

I have been waiting to post anything. Ultimately, it is not my story to tell so I am always very cautious. I haven't talked to Steph personally yet. I will. Today was not the day to do that. I will not share details tonight because again, they aren't my details to share. But this was posted to the News-Leader website tonight.

Kickapoo basketball coach Stephanie Phillips stepping aside to focus on family, fight against cancer
Michael Stacy • January 27, 2010

After receiving a diagnosis Tuesday that her cancer has spread, Kickapoo High School girls' basketball coach Stephanie Phillips told her team this evening that she is stepping away from basketball to spend time with her family and focus on her fight against the disease.


Phillips has been diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer.She and husband Scot have two young sons, Drew and Levi."I just feel like I need some time away," Phillips said tonight, "to take a break from (the team) right now and from basketball and from all of that and just focus on me and my family and doing everything that I can do to get healthy."

Phillips, in her ninth season as coach of the Lady Chiefs, has a 201-37 record. She has led Kickapoo to two state championships, in 2003 and 2005.Missouri State women's coach Nyla Milleson, a former coach at Glendale High School and Drury University, has known Phillips for years. She praised Phillips — the mother and the basketball coach."I think the big thing now is your prayers and your thoughts go out to her and her family and her husband and two little boys," Milleson told News-Leader reporter Erin Bolen tonight while en route to the Lady Bears' game at Southern Illinois. "These kind of things put so many things into perspective. She's a wonderful mother and a wonderful person, and I just don't know what else you can say about her as a person."And she's got a tremendous basketball mind that's done so much for that team. I'm sure her team will rally around her, but I don't know what else you can do but to offer prayers."I'd known her for years," Milleson added, "but I was already gone from Glendale by the time she came back to Kickapoo. We've been friends and colleagues for a longtime."

MAKE NO MISTAKE. We are not giving up...just focusing on a new plan of attack. We will pray for a miracle and ask that you fall to your knees with us and do the same. We will continue to trust in the Lord our God with ALL our hearts. We will continue to praise Him in this storm.

Tuesday, January 26, 2010

Update

Steph has an MRI scheduled for 6:30 this evening. She will also be meeting with a medical oncologist and a radiation oncologist. That's all I know for now! Keep praying!

Monday, January 25, 2010

Lengthy and Most Likely Confusing Post.

I will now attempt to share with you what has been going on in the past few weeks. It will be long. You will be confused. You will be sad. You will also be encouraged. So here it goes.

After meeting with Dr. Biggers, Steph had a meeting with Dr. Hoos. He said he didn't think the PET scan would be necessary, but if she moves on to St. Louis, they would probably want it so "go ahead if you want." She then asked to be referred on to a surgeon in St. Louis and he obliged. Meanwhile, Dr. Biggers is still VERY concerned that she has not been tested for Lynch Syndrome or anything else genetic. She informed him that she HAS in fact been tested for that stuff TWICE. And guess what...when he called the ONLY genetic counselor in Springfield....she had NO record of even seeing Steph. She was also tested in Houston. The tests came back negative again, but they weren't so sure so they requested more information. This would come in the form of a 25 page questionnaire. Questions like, "What and how many times did you eat as a baby,"caused her to push that one aside and never look at it again. That has guinea pig written all over it!

SO, Dr. Hoos referred her to Dr. Chapman in St. Louis. After doing her own research she found that this man specializes in LIVERS!! She called and spoke with his nurse (who said, "Oh, I have your scans right here that you need to pick up to take to St. Louis!" Good thing she called!) to explain that she did not want to waste her time driving to St. Louis to see a doctor that couldn't help her. She was very understanding and assured Steph that the doctor himself would be calling her back before the day's end. At 4:30 she had heard nothing so she left practice that day and drove straight to St. Johns. She walked in without an appointment and in a very nice way insisted that she speak with Dr. Hoos. He explained to her that her scan revealed "more cancer deep within her abdomen." He then assured her that she was going to the right doctor. I don't think I need to tell you how devastating that news was...for everyone.

Steph, Scot, my mom and the boys FINALLY got out of town and headed to the hotel. The next morning was her appointment which they originally thought would be a simple meeting to discuss surgery options. However after talking more about it they decided that they boys did NOT need to be in the office, given the news she had received the day before. So they called dear Aunt Jackie who lives in St. Louis and dropped EVERYTHING to be there. She and Uncle Jerry were at Siteman Cancer Center before Steph was! She sat with the boys while Scot and my mom accompanied Steph. They gave Dr. Chapman the stack of scans and he went to his office to look them over. He came back and said that the scan from December 22, 2009 was not there. He would absolutely have to see this scan in order to compare it to the PET scan from the previous week. Without it, he really couldn't say much. So I guess you would call that...A WASTED TRIP!!!!!!! Oh yeah, he also told her he would look at the scan and most likely refer her on to a different surgeon, you know, one who specializes in the colon.

Everyone came home very confused. Steph called and talked with the nurse about the missing scan. She apologized and said that they request their scans from another department and she wasn't sure how many scans were supposed to be there, so she didn't realize it was missing. Steph said she would send JL (Scot's dad) up for the scan so he could mail it. She told Steph that she would take care of it and get it to St. Louis by Friday. Scot called Steph on Friday and told her that the scan had arrived...AT THEIR HOME!!! JL went up to St. John's in hopes he would find that they had just sent a copy to their house. No such luck. He then mailed it HIMSELF to St. Louis. Now here we are. Today. I just got an e-mail from Steph. Here is what it says.

Going to STL tomorrow. Don't have appt time yet, but should get it this afternoon. The (liver) doctor that I saw last week spoke with me today and said he thinks I would be a candidate for the surgery to have the pelvic tumor as well as the abdominal tumors removed. Pray that he is right! I really think if I can just start with a clean slate I can beat this thing.

Isn't she amazing?

Sunday, January 10, 2010

Untitled.

Here we are. It's 2010. We have been sitting on some news for a few weeks now. Before Christmas, Steph had been experiencing some pain at the site of her tumor. This tumor is near her uterus and was deemed "stable" at the beginning of November. She insisted that she be scanned again. Dr. Hoos obliged and called her with the results. Not good. The tumor has grown by about a centimeter in one direction and a centimeter and a half in the other direction. This was NOT what we wanted to hear. Since then she has seen Dr. Edwards, a general surgeon, to get a little feedback about why we aren't just taking the tumor out. He said he was very apprehensive about doing the procedure, although we still don't understand why, and referred her to another surgeon here in town, Dr. Biggers. He also said he would not feel comfortable doing the surgery and is sending her results to Dallas to see what they say.

What Dr. Biggers DID do was to get the ball rolling on a few other things. He was shocked that Steph has COLON CANCER and had not been instructed to get a colonoscopy YEARLY! That thought had never crossed our minds, but when it did it just seemed like a no brainer! He also could not believe that she has not had a PET scan since her diagnosis. So she will be having a PET scan on Thursday which will show any cancer activity in her body. She will be meeting with Dr. Hoos next week (I think) to discuss some more things. We are very frustrated at this point because we feel like many doctors she has seen (Not the previously mentioned docs) are giving up. We feel like from day one, they looked at her chart and wrote her off as another hopeless case. APPARENTLY they didn't get the memo...STEPH DOESN'T GIVE UP!!!!! They obviously don't know who they are dealing with here!

So now we wait. I think I speak for many when I say...I'm tapped out. I am having a hard time "brightsiding" this. The words don't come like they usually do. I won't lose faith. I will pray. I will listen. I will thank God for Pastor Scott Watson who always seems to have the right words. But, I am not afraid to say....this sucks.

Monday, January 4, 2010

Alva Delzell Thurman

Alva Delzell Thurman, 86 years, passed to heaven on December 19, 2009 at St.John's Regional Health Center, Springfield, Mo. Alva was born May 7, 1923 in Girdner, Mo., to William and Lydia (Robertson) Thurman. On November 14, 1946 Alva and Frieda Thomas were united in marriage in Mtn. Home, Ark., and to this union three children were born. Alva was a lifelong resident of Douglas County. He was a WWII veteran serving with the U.S. Army. He worked as a farmer, and also served as a Douglas County Deputy Sheriff for many years. Alva also served as a minister and preached at several churches in the area. He was a member of the Mount Calvary Freewill Baptist Church in Ava and the Ava VFW #5993. He enjoyed gospel singings and found so much joy in being with his family and all his grandchildren. Alva was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Naomi Twitty; and a granddaughter, Deanna Thurman. Alva is survived by his wife, Frieda Thurman, Ava, Mo.; three children, Frank Dean Thurman, Platte City, Mo., Alva Edwin "Ed" Thurman and wife, Pam, Sparta, Mo., and Linda Neal and husband, George, Omaha, Ark.; 11 grandchildren, eighteen great-grandchildren; three sisters, Neva Vinson, Ava, Mo., Zola Harrison, Everton, Mo., and Norva Strong, Ava, Mo., many nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends. Funeral services for Alva will be Wednesday, December 23, 2009, at 10 a.m. in the Clinkingbeard Funeral Home, Ava, Mo., with burial in the Yates Cemetery with military honors by Ava American Legion #112 and VFW #5993. Visitation will be Wednesday, December 23, 2009 from 9 a.m. to service time in the funeral home. Officiating will be Rev. J.W. O'Neal and Rev. Marvin Loftin. Memorials may be made to Yates Cemetery or the Mount Calvary Freewill Baptist Church. On line condolences may be made to www.clinkingbeardfuneralhome.com.
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To the Thurman family, please forgive me for not posting this sooner. You have all been in my prayers over the past few weeks and continue to be during this time. I wanted to make sure that I posted this to share with all of you. Steph's papa was a very special man and he will be missed by many.

Monday, December 7, 2009

More Chemo.

No, it's not for Steph. As you know she is taking a break, but her Papa....is not. He was recently diagnosed with cancer. I wish I could tell you what kind but I can't, for the life of me, remember what I was told. But today was his first chemo treatment. So Steph decided that it was VERY important to be there with him today as he experienced for the first time what is all too familiar to her. She spent the day with him, her Granny and her dad. It was hard for her but as she was leaving he told her that he had, "had the best day." I hate it for him. I hate it for his family. BUT, I am so thankful that he is not one of the people sitting by himself as poison courses through his veins. Please add him to your prayer lists. Pray that he tolerates chemo and is cured. Pray for their family as they do this....again.

Sunday, November 15, 2009

Happy Birthday Edna!

Since I didn't get a birthday wish posted yesterday...I wanted to make sure it was extra special! HAPPY BIRTHDAY Edna! Hope you had a wonderful day!!

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Thursday, November 12, 2009

Good News.

More later...but things are looking good!!!

**It's later! I have talked to my mom and we got good news today. When the doc looked at the scan...for the first time this afternoon as he was sitting in front of Steph, he read it out loud. "Stable. Hmm." For those not up on the cancer lingo...stable=NO GROWTH!!! This is amazing news! They are still looking into some clinical studies in Bethesda, MD that she is a candidate for at this time. HOWEVER, after looking at her scans today, Dr. Hoos decided that it would be okay for her to wait just a little longer on those since the CANCER IS NOT GROWING!!!!! She would have to be gone a lot for those and in case you hadn't heard...IT'S LADY CHIEF SEASON BABY!!!! He wants to continue to scan her because her cancer has been very aggressive in the past.

We feel very strongly that Steph's devotion to her diet and nutrition played a huge role in this positive development. She will continue doing what she is doing. But ALL the glory and ALL the praise goes to God. This is HIS plan and HIS will is being done here. I mentioned in my previous post that maybe we can't change God's mind by praying. I also meant to mention that he always answers our prayers. Sometimes he doesn't answer them in the way we WANT Him to.

But sometimes he does.

Thank you Jesus. Thank you.

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Results Tomorrow

Is there something you do in the evenings that is a complete time suck? For me, it's the computer. I sit, play games, shop and waste time on facebook. I enjoy it. It is my reward for working hard all day. When the kids are in bed and all is quiet, I like to sit and do mindless "junk" on the internet. Sometimes I blog and catch up on other blogs, but mostly...I waste time. Tonight I am going to give up my computer time because there is something so much more important to do. Pray. I have a list of things that need some serious attention. At the top of the list is Steph. So would you please join me tonight? Steph has an appointment tomorrow to discuss the results of her scan and a new plan of action. This is a big one.

But guess what??

God already knows the outcome. He knows her story. He knows exactly what is going to be said at that appointment tomorrow. Then why pray?? Well, I recently read a VERY lengthy blog post HERE about that very question. Long story short, she suggests we cannot CHANGE God's mind by praying...we can only draw nearer to Him so that we may be at peace with the results that HE has chosen. So I will pray. Please join me!

Monday, November 2, 2009

Scan Tomorrow!

If you are like me, tonight you will crawl into bed with a million things running through your head. What didn't I get done? What do I need to do tomorrow? Does my husband have clean underwear? Did I lock the doors? How long has it been since I washed my hair? And so on. But tonight, I am asking you to take a few minutes from your list and pray just a little extra for Steph. Tonight she has one thing and one thing only on her mind. She is thinking about her scan tomorrow. It's kind of a big one. We NEED this to be good. We NEED to hear that the cancer is shrinking...better yet we want to hear that it is GONE!! Steph told me today that she is fighting the devil daily as he tries to convince her that this cancer is never going away. Lets lift her up in prayer. Our prayers are so much more powerful than anything satan could come up with. Continue to pray tomorrow and the days that follow as we wait for the results. I will let you know as soon as I am able!

Thursday, October 22, 2009

Fundraiser!

On Monday October 26th, we will be having a fundraiser to benefit Ozark's Care to Learn program. I have mentioned before how important this cause is to me. Care To Learn provides immediate funding and action to meet any emergent health, hunger or hygiene issue a child might have; addressing a physical need, restoring respect, and getting that child back in the classroom. We also are participating in the backpack program which will send home backpacks stocked with snacks and easy to prepare meals for children who may not get meals outside of school.

So please join us at McAllisters in Nixa Monday October 26th from 5-9!!

Friday, October 16, 2009

Prayer Request


WAAAAY back in the old days, I went to high school with Kasey White. Two years ago, through the wonders of myspace, I learned that he and his family had been dealt the devastating blow of a cancer diagnosis. Every parents nightmare...his beautiful daughter Megan had a six pound tumor that had basically swallowed her kidney. They headed straight to St. Jude where she fought the fight and came home cancer free. She is a beautiful and talented young lady that you may have seen or heard on TV or the radio.


They recently returned from St. Jude's after a routine scan (IF you can even call a scan to check your child's body for a life threatening illness routine) with "mixed reviews," as Kasey said. There is a spot on Megan's lung but her brain scans were clean. I am asking you ALL to add sweet Megan, her dad Kasey, her mom Kandice and her brother Danny to your prayer list. Lift them up and pray that God will heal her body. From what I understand, they are going to "wait and see" and then rescan her in six weeks. Please also pray that Megan's family can find peace and rest in our Father's arms.


We are such strong believers in the power of prayer. We see it work everyday and FEEL your prayers all the time. There is SO little I can do for this family so I wanted them to be covered in YOUR prayers. I know personally how comforting those prayers are. To follow Megan's journey click HERE for her caringbridge site. To fall in love with this sweet girl, go HERE to hear her story and watch the video below that aired at Thanksgiving time. (The same time she was on the Today show!!!) She has become quite the little star!


Thursday, October 8, 2009

WIN Banquet

Last night I was honored to spend the evening in the company of so many strong and amazing women at the WIN banquet. (Women's Intersports Network) As I looked at the list I realized that I have been blessed to play basketball for THREE of these very women!

Courage Award
I have mentioned Trish Marsh on my blog before. I played AAU basketball for her in 8th grade. She has battled and BEAT breast cancer. Her speech touched us all as she talked about "bouncing back" from the blow she was dealt. She cried as she looked at her wonderful husband (the swiffer master) and her two beautiful children. She talked about her "chemo buddy" and I cried. She is blessed to have an amazing support system and I am so thankful for that.
Senior Sportsman Award
Coach Sue Schuble was my basketball and volleyball coach in high school. She retired a few years ago and is spending her retirement years volunteering ALL over the place! She has a passion and love for animals and nature that so far I have only seen in my OWN child! She has backpacked and camped in ALL 50+ of our National Parks. I was glad to see her and we set up a time that I can bring Claire to the zoo and get a "backstage pass" thanks to Schub!
And of COURSE we can't forget the Most Challenged Coach award! I didn't get a picture because I was too busy taking video! So here they are! My mom presented Steph and then Steph gave a speech that was SO very important! The mic was a little "hot" but hang in there, it's worth it!





Sunday, September 20, 2009

Check it out!

THIS was in the Springfield News-Leader today!

The following individuals will be honored at the fourth annual Women's Intersports Network (WIN) Awards Banquet on Wednesday, Oct. 7, for being strong role models in the area of girls' and women’s sports:

• Challenged Award — Stephanie Phillips, Kickapoo HIgh School basketball coach

• Courage Award — Trish Marsh, Missouri State associate basketball coach

• Mentor Award — Barb Cowherd, Drury University Associate Athletics Director

• Senior Sportswoman — Sue Schuble, retired Kickapoo coach

• Corporate Award — Donna Powers, McDonald's

• Bee Payne-Stewart Spirit Award — Linda Dollar, retired MSU volleyball coach, currently city's Director of Community Olympic Development Program

The event, which includes a silent auction in which all proceeds go to benefit WIN of Springfield, begins at 5:30 p..m. at the Doubletree Hotel.

Dr. Nancy O’Reilly, who recently wrote a book entitled, “Timeless Women Speak: Feeling Youthful at Any Age," will be the keynote speaker. Tickets are available at the door.

Ticket prices are as follows:

• Event sponsor — $250
• Team rate (15 or more people) — $65
• Table of 8 — $65
• General public — $15
• WIN members $10
• Students — $5


Very cool! Can't wait for this!!!

Sunday, September 6, 2009

Larry Happ

We received news that Steph's step father passed away yesterday morning. The entire family is in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Lawrence R. Happ

Larry Happ, 64, passed away in his home in Nixa, MO September 5, 2009. He was born in Mendota, IL in 1945 where he grew up with his beloved brothers and sisters. He was a graduate of the University of Illinois with a degree in metallurgy. He was very proud of his work as an engineer. He was preceded in death by his parents Albert and Mary Happ, his brother Donald Happ and his daughter Debra Happ. He is survived by his wife Edna, the love of his life. They enjoyed dancing, traveling and spending time with their seven grandchildren. He is also survived by his three sons, Brian, Don and Greg all of Wisconsin and step children Stephanie Phillips and Jon Thurman of Springfield and Ryan Thurman of Fayetteville, AR. His surviving siblings include his brothers David, Norbert and Douglas Happ as well as his sisters Carleen Anderson, Marleen Davis, Angela Happ and Eunice Taylor. He is also survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews. He was a very active member of St. Francis of Assisi Catholic church in Nixa, MO.

Visitation will be at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church in Springfield, Mo on Tuesday, Sept 8 from 6:00-8:00 pm with a prayer at 7:00 pm. Funeral and mass will be held Wednesday, Sept 9 at 10:30 am at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton followed by the graveside service at Resurrection Cemetery.

Saturday, September 5, 2009

As many of you know, things around here seem to be slightly out of control. At least that is what I would have said a few years ago. With my Uncle Gary's diagnosis of pancreatic cancer and his passing just 65 days later, we were devastated. But let me just tell you, the moments and days that came after his passing were not what I thought they would be. I am surrounded by people who know that our lives are NEVER out of control as long as we trust in the Lord with everything we have. HE is in control and it is obvious as I watch my family heal. One of the most amazing things has been watching so many people come to our aid, Steph being one of them. I can't say enough how truly blessed I feel to be part of this family. I should also make very clear that family doesn't just include those in my bloodline. We have a habit of "adopting" people and we have very special friends who we consider family....for example the Phillips family! (among others!)

Because of the funeral, Steph changed her chemo day to Wednesday so that she could help my mom. Without her and our dear friend Pam (a.k.a. Mimi) the day would have not ran as smoothly...AT ALL! Chemo seems to be really packing a punch on our girl right now. So please pray that it gets better. Steph is SO tough so it's hard to see her feel so bad. She is a fighter and she is fighting harder than ever before. Pray for strength and complete healing!!

Friday, August 28, 2009

My Uncle

Gary Joe Marshall

December 10, 1961-August 27, 2009
There will be a day with no more tears, no more pain, and no more fears. There will be a day when the burdens of this place, will be no more, we'll see Jesus face to face But until that day, we'll hold on to you always I know the journey seems so long. You feel you're walking on your own But there has never been a step Where you've walked out all alone.
(Jeremy Camp-There Will Be A Day.)

Monday, August 17, 2009

Scan results!

Steph got the results of her scan today. From what they can see, there hasn't been much change! This sounded like great news to me since she has only had 2 chemo treatments in the last 2 months! Her counts have been low due to the fact that she had not been taking her shots that boost her up. So basically, it's back to business as usual! Now we all have to get geared up to send Drew and Claire off to kindergarten!!! It's hard enough to think about them going off to school, but it's almost unbearable to think about them going to DIFFERENT schools!! I think it will be harder on me than the kids...sniff sniff. (wipe tear)

Did you notice our new button on the right side of our page? I started a team for the Cystic Fibrosis walk at Rutledge-Wilson Farm in October. We are walking in memory of our friend Jeff Wester who passed away in 2006 from complications of pneumonia. Please consider donating if you can or come walk with us!!! Click on the link and it will take you to our site!

Friday, August 14, 2009

Two years...and counting. A note from Steph

I'm not near as entertaining as Chrissy, but she's kinda busy right now. I've been reflecting a lot lately, so I thought I would share...

Two years ago today, I was diagnosed with colon cancer.

Looking back on the past two years I am feeling so blessed. I am absolutely overwhelmed with gratefulness. It would be really easy for me to think about all of the rough times that my cancer diagnosis has brought with it (and there have been plenty), but my focus tends to be on all the good stuff. Maybe not so much the good stuff, but the good people…wow!

I can’t even begin to guess how many people have told me that they are praying for me. Let me tell you, that never gets old. I am so thankful that people still remember that I am fighting the hardest battle of my life, and they are thinking of me and praying for me. It truly is comforting to hear that and to know that there is a network of people out there…some family, some very close friends, some old classmates, some former teammates, some coworkers, and some people that I don’t even know that are still praying. Knowing that I have all that support truly gives me so much courage and strength as I continue to fight.

The real beauty of all these people praying for me, is that I feel it working. I really do. I feel God leading me with every decision. After surgery, after chemo, after radiation, after another round of chemo, after each visit to Houston, and after my most recent decision to take charge of this thing myself…He has guided me so gently and so carefully in the right direction. He has placed people in my life to share stories or offer advice at just the right time. Most importantly, He has kept me here. Allowed me to live, to keep doing what I do as much as I can. He has allowed me to struggle, challenged me to fight, and carried me at times when I didn’t think I could do it anymore.

Boy, have I needed that a few times…someone to carry me, that is. And He has placed someone right by my side to do just that. I don’t know what I would do without Scot. Wow…talk about carrying me and doing everything else to make our lives as normal as possible. Our boys LOVE superheroes, but what they don’t realize is that we have one living with us. He does it all around our house. No, seriously, I mean ALL. He picks up toys, does laundry, makes meals, cleans up after meals, scrubs the boys at bath time, picks out their clothes for the next day, makes Drew’s lunch for school, sweeps the floor, plays rodeo, wrestles, plays superheroes, jumps on the trampoline, rides bikes, reads books, colors pictures, mows the yard, plants flowers, spreads mulch, teaches, coaches AND NEVER complains. He really is a hero.

My family has been great. They have all helped me in countless ways. My mom and dad and Scot’s mom and dad are incredible. They have been there to do whatever we have needed, whenever we have needed it. They provide us with love and support and we know that they are there for us whenever we need it. They are not intrusive in any way. They let us live our lives and make our own decisions, but when we need them, we don’t have to ask twice. It’s true what “they” say about family, they are always there for us.

And then there’s my angel…my forever friend Cheryl. She has been there with me through it all and her family has jumped on board as well. Cheryl has been to every chemo treatment with me and almost every doctor’s appointment. Her family has been so supportive and very unselfish about sharing her with me. Chrissy especially has made my life so much easier by keeping the blog going for me. I truly can’t say enough about these people and how special they are to me. Without question, I know that they would do anything for me at any time. Priceless.

I would not have survived the past two years without my family, my dear friends, my coworkers and my precious team. There’s no way I could recognize each of them individually. I fear that I would unintentionally leave someone out and hurt someone’s feelings. What I do know is that God has placed so many people in my life over the years for a reason. Many of them are helping me fight this battle in one way or another. I couldn’t do it alone and I feel so sorry for the people that are not as blessed as me. I feel so small and I am so incredibly grateful. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. If you are reading this, there is no doubt you have helped me in some way. Know that I appreciate you all.

Please continue to pray as I go in for another scan today. I have not been able to have chemo very consistently this summer because my blood counts have been too low. At this time I’m very frustrated with that because it feels like the tumor is growing and it’s starting to cause more discomfort. I meet with my oncologist Monday morning and I am praying for a clear plan.

Two years…and counting…thank the Lord!

Blessings to you all.
Steph

Wednesday, July 29, 2009

Do you know what this is??


This is our Auntie Karen ringing the SURVIVOR BELL at her last chemo treatment today! PRAISE THE LORD!! Do you see the beautiful lady in the background? That is Donna. She is Karen's "Cheryl" who has been there for her and her family through this whole thing. We are so thankful to be here at the end of this journey with Karen. My God has filled my heart with hope today. He has my family in the palm of His hand. I know this because He gives me images like this.

Monday, July 27, 2009

The world keeps turning.

Since my last post...

My kids kissed on the beach.

My baby girl turned 5.
My uncle did his first and second rounds of chemo with his amazing wife by his side. At the same time, just across town...Steph was doing chemo too!

I have a new blog reader. (He at least stares at it from his momma's lap!)
Auntie Karen took pictures for the Phillips family.

We march on!

Monday, July 13, 2009

We're baaaack.

It has been a while since my last post. It's not because we just sold our house. It's not because we just bought a new one. It's not because I've been busy packing and getting ready for a family vacation. It's because of 2 things. First of all, I haven't had much to report. Second, if you read my personal blog, you know that our family has been dealt another blow. My Uncle Gary has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. He is my mom's "baby" brother and this has been pretty tough. Click here for the full post. Please pray for our family as we help him fight this.

Now for a Stephanie update. Obviously we were not encouraged by the news we received in Houston and it left a bad taste in our mouths. (Especially Steph's...sort of a barium flavored taste!) Steph did a lot of thinking and talking about her situation. If you know her, you know...it's NOT good enough to do chemo....forever! So after doing A LOT of research, she has decided on her own plan of action. She will be backpacking around the world in search of a cure for cancer. No. I'm totally kidding. She IS going to take a more proactive approach to her fight with cancer. She will continue with the treatment that the doctors are prescribing but will be focusing 100% on the things she puts into her body. She will be cutting out a lot of foods that we should ALL cut out anyway and focus on vitamins and supplements that her body needs to fight cancer. As you can imagine, this is a full time job in itself! I suggested that she check into hiring someone part-time to prepare meals for her! She said she actually considered it but can't find anyone! (Sooooo, anyone interested?!) We are confident that this will make a difference! That and ALL your prayers!!!

Wednesday, June 17, 2009

This sweet family...


is mine by marriage. This is Jesse, Uncle Keith, Aunt Karen and Megan. Yet another family who has been touched by cancer. Karen found a lump during a monthly self-exam. A mammogram did not detect the lump, but she persisted and they found it with an ultra-sound. By the grace of God, she found it very early but is still having to endure chemotherapy. Today I had the privilege of taking her to chemo. Her attitude is amazing. One of my favorite parts of the day was one that she may not even realize happened. We were briskly walking through the waiting room. She was breezing through with her head (adorned with the cutest wig I have EVER seen) held high. She passed a lady that was waiting as well and just said, "Hello! You look very pretty! That blouse looks so pretty on you!" Because I was walking behind her, I got to see the look on this lady's face. I vowed right then and there that I will give out more random but sincere compliments. I was so proud to be there with her. Especially when she busted out the fake snoring!

When I looked around at this room full of people I was sad. Sure I was sad that they were all there fighting for their lives. But I was also sad when I looked at the number of people that were there by themselves. I saw a woman coming back from the restroom. I jumped up to help her plug herself back into the wall. I was happy to do it and she was very thankful...but it made me sad! Why wasn't someone there for her? There was a lady that felt sick and all she wanted was a baked potato, but no one was there to go get her one. A very sweet nurse ran over to the hospital cafeteria and got her one. (That would be considered above and beyond the call of duty!) It made my heart ache. It also made me so thankful to be a part of a family that is so dedicated to one another. I left there with so much love in my heart for my mom. The fact that Steph NEVER has to be alone during chemo...there just aren't words. So here is my plea.

If you know someone with cancer (a family member, friend, neighbor, church member, mail person, bank teller...you get my point.) please, no matter how they may resist....DON'T LET THEM GO TO CHEMO ALONE!!!! If you have to, call me and I will go with them!!! I honestly sat there today and thought, "I wonder if I could volunteer up here and just take care of the people who don't have anyone?" Someone to get a blanket. Someone to fetch a drink. Someone to alert the nurse when nausea is taking hold. Everyone should have a someone. By the way, Aunt Karen has LOTS of someones...I am blessed to be one of them!

Friday, June 12, 2009

Chemo Day

Steph started chemo yesterday. Bummer. We were really hoping for a summer full of fun WITHOUT chemo. As my kids would say, "BOO chemo, YEAH pool days!" But if you know us, you know that we will make the best of it. So I enjoyed a day with these 4 cutie pies.
From A Little Bit of Life

Here are a few more pictures from our fun day!

From A Little Bit of Life


From A Little Bit of Life


From A Little Bit of Life


From A Little Bit of Life


From A Little Bit of Life


From A Little Bit of Life


From A Little Bit of Life


From A Little Bit of Life

Tuesday, June 9, 2009

I Do, but I don't.

Levi has a new thing these days that we think is just hilarious. We will ask him a question such as, "Levi, do you want to eat lunch?" His reply is always, "I do, but I don't!" It is so cute!

So today as we waited to hear from Houston Steph sent us a text on her feelings on getting the news.

"I do, but I don't want to know."

My heart is heavy as I type this and I'm just going to shoot straight here. There is a nodule near her ovary. The lymph node next to it is inflamed. There is another inflamed lymph node below her abdomen. This leads them to believe that the area between these two spots contains a network of cancer cells that are too small to see. In case you don't feel as if you have been punched in the gut, let me continue.

They have recommended chemo full force again (instead of the leisurely "maintenance" chemo) starting next week. She then asked if this is how it's going to be..."chemo until I can't take it anymore, take a break for rest and start over?" His answer....yes.

I can't even begin to tell you how mad I am. I am even going to venture out (at the risk of offending someone) and say I am DOWN. RIGHT. PISSED. I'm sorry, but I am.

Make NO mistake...we are not waving a white flag. We will not surrender. We will not back down. We will exhaust EVERY option. In the meantime will also continue to live each day to its fullest. We will meet up, as we did today, at our favorite hangout (Nanny and Papa's pool) and continue life as usual. We listen to our kids yell, "WATCH ME WATCH ME!!" We will hoot and holler as if they just did something different from the last 50 times they jumped into the pool. Scot will sweep the porch and pick up after everyone. We will put "spidey suits" on and take them off over and over. (on the kids that is!) I will tell my stupid stories about how I choked on my Pina Colada in St. Thomas and threw my back out to make everyone laugh. We will charge on. We will get through this. We will continue to call ourselves blessed because we have each other. That's all we need.

We know, medically speaking, that Steph is very very sick. We also know that our God is in control.

Am I scared?

I am, but I'm not.

Tuesday, May 26, 2009

15 years from now.....

I'm pretty sure this is exactly what will be happening in Steph's living room the week before mother's day.

Saturday, May 23, 2009

I lied.

I said I would update in a more timely manner, but it was a weird visit to Houston. We really aren't sure what to make of it, but we will remain faithful. After she finally had the ultrasound done, the doc said that she does NOT have anything on her ovary. He said basically someone read the original scans wrong. There are however, two more places that are near the ovary but they are not 100% sure what they are. All he could say was that he was really confused. He decided to bring it before the "board" which meets on Mondays. This coming Monday is a holiday so they won't meet until June 8th. They will call on June 9th with their plan of action. That's all we know for now and we shall continue to pray.

Wednesday, May 20, 2009

Frustration.

Today Steph had an appointment with the gynecological oncologist. After that she was scheduled for an ultrasound. However, when she met with the doctor he was very frustrated that they scheduled her appointments the way they did. The reason she was meeting with him was to discuss the results of the ultrasound...which was difficult because it had not taken place yet. He apologized and sent her to the office with a note stating that she MUST have this ultrasound TODAY. Off they went. They told the gentleman the situation and he told them to have a seat. They waited for an hour and noticed that everyone was packing up and turning lights off as they sat in the EMPTY waiting room. Steph went to the desk and asked what the hold up was. Long story short...they were overlooked. SO now, she has to be there at 7:30 in the morning to receive an ultrasound that was supposed to have taken place TODAY and been discussed TODAY. Basically a whole day was wasted in waiting rooms. Just what every cancer patient loves to do. As if she doesn't spend enough in waiting rooms. You would think a hospital dedicated to cancer patients would have these things ironed out. Needless to say, my mom and Steph were very frustrated. I will know more tomorrow and promise to update in a more timely manner. Until then...keep praying!

Just to pass the time....

From The View I Love the Most


From The View I Love the Most




From The View I Love the Most

Grandma Connie and the gang!
From The View I Love the Most

Cohen, Drew and Cross
From The View I Love the Most

Tuesday, May 19, 2009

Houston

Steph and my mom left this morning at 6:45 for Houston. She will be scanned today, meet with the gynecological oncologist Wednesday (regarding the spot on her ovary) and then have her last appointments on Thursday before she heads home. We are really not sure what to expect so I will keep you posted as I get the information. Actually...I KNOW what I am expecting. A MIRACLE!!! Pray with us every chance you get!!

Monday, May 11, 2009

Fear.


If you know me, you know that I am a VERY cautious person...almost to a fault. Lately, my sense of caution is slowly becoming full blown fear. The first night of our FIRST ANNUAL girls vacation, we ventured into a rather seedy restaurant/bar (it was the only place open within walking distance and we were STARVING!) and I became gripped with fear. You wouldn't believe the thoughts racing through my mind. I'm embarrassed to even think about it. We returned to our hotel safe and sound with greasy burgers in tow. I managed to loosen up but made my mom and Steph PROMISE not to make me go back there.
At lunch the next day, we discussed my issues. My health is something that is causing me more stress than anything. Since Steph was diagnosed, it has been awful! I get a headache...brain tumor. A freckle...skin cancer. My stomach hurts...colon cancer. Strange leg pain...a blood clot that is going to break free in the night and cause instant death. Sounds crazy right? Trust me, I know! I am usually able to talk myself out so I don't become a complete nut job.
Fast forward to Monday. I left mom and Steph on the beach and headed out into the ocean. I harnessed my fear of the stingrays mentioned on the sign that said "Do the stingray shuffle, or you will be doing the first aid hop!" I floated and bobbed along in the beautiful blue waters. I looked back toward the shore and saw two of the most important women in my life. I looked around at the expansive body of water that had rendered me weightless. I closed my eyes and felt a stir in my heart. I have recently learned that when I feel that, God is speaking to me. I have been working on the listening part lately. Then it hit me.
Look at this Chrissy. This is what God made. Only an all powerful God could create this amazing backdrop. Only a loving and generous Father would create this beautiful place and give it to us to enjoy. Look at your friend Chrissy. She is fearfully and wonderfully made. A God that is so powerful, so generous and so loving is perfectly capable of healing her ailing body. And guess what Chrissy? That God is all knowing. He knows our plan. He will reward us for trusting in Him. That is what I will do. I will trust Him with the life of my dear friend. I will trust Him with MY health.
I'm not going to sugar coat it...it is sometimes VERY hard to do that. I have moments that fear grips me. Those are the moments I feel a battle in my heart. I know Satan wants me to be scared. God always calms those fears. I know Satan wants my life to be dark again. God sheds light on my world in a way I never thought possible. Satan wants me to feel alone. I know my God will never forsake me. So I prescribed the following treatment plan.
Less worrying...More praying.

Thursday, May 7, 2009

Fundraiser for the Lady Chiefs

I downloaded a new toolbar for my computer. Each time I click on a sponsored link (anything listed in the shaded area with bullet points or anything listed on the right side of the page) 10 cents goes directly to the Lady Chiefs! NO PURCHASE NECESSARY! So I just got this e-mail from Steph and thought it would be a good way to get the word out!

Click HERE to start earning money for our girls!!

Monday, May 4, 2009

Day 3




We spent the day on the beach in cabanas. We had our coffee there and enjoyed the cool breeze. By the time afternoon rolled around we were glad to put up our shades to avoid becoming COMPLETELY lobster-esque! We read, talked and people watched. Steph and I floated in the ocean for a while. That's what I call a good day.

Everyday we have eaten lunch at the little bar by the pool. So far we have had delicious food and fantastic service. Our bartender/waiter took our picture today.
We are going to dinner tonight and plan to relax on the beach again tomorrow before we head home. We are having a great time, but we are missing our boys...and Claire!

Day 2

There was no picture and no post for day two. Why? I was injured. I am not sure, but I think I had a rib out of place. Our day consisted of eating, drinking, laying by the pool and taking a leisurely walk on the beach. (Well, Steph stayed behind due to her monster blisters!) This makes an injury very hard to explain. So I won't even try!

But I will tell you...Steph danced a little yesterday....in hoedown fashion. Heel, toe COTTON EYED JOE!!! She's gonna kill me.

Saturday, May 2, 2009

Day 1


After a bumpy flight and a very FAST cab ride, we made it to our hotel last night a little after 11:00. We were starved and went in search of food. We ended up in a very interesting place that we will not be revisiting any time soon! Today we slept in until 9:30 (8:30 our time) and were very lazy. We headed to the pool around 11 and ate lunch before taking to the beach for a VERY long walk! Poor Steph has some MAJOR blisters to prove it! We picked up some great seashells for Claire's collection and headed back to the pool for more....well...nothing!

This picture is us at dinner tonight. A couple at the pool today told us about a great restaurant called Snappers, and they weren't kidding! It was WONDERFUL! We are stuffed and already in bed...you should know it's 10:16 and we have been camped out here for about at hour! We have really enjoyed the life of leisure today and can't wait for more tomorrow!

Sunday, April 26, 2009

Guest Post by Chrissy's Mom

29 years ago today.......

My children will immediately recognize the above sentence. The number changes every year but it is usually heard a multitude of times during the day of their birthday. So as I'm starting this post I'll have you know that I was 3 hours into my labor of my first born, Chrissy. You know.....that really funny, witty, god loving girl of mine that writes not 1 but 2 blogs (www.stephsgonnawin.blogspot.com & www.claireandcocosmommy.blogspot.com)

This will not be posted until later so I'll be showing you our new pics we took tonight! We are so excited to be sharing our evening together along with some very special people. We are meeting for dinner at 6:30 and then on to see Jesus Christ Superstar!

I would love to give Chrissy the most amazing post ever because she is so deserving. But, as a Mom, I know that I'm very biased. To me she is everything I ever dreamed about my little girl being and becoming! How is it that my daughter is so bright, articulate, caring, giving, and absolutely gorgeous? I say over and over how blessed I am.....she is one example. Don't worry Jarad, you are another way that I have been blessed! The people that God has put in my life are truly my biggest blessings and I love to daily tell HIM thank you.

I have been able to spend today with her and have loved every minute. We started with spending the entire morning looking at houses with my wonderful son-in-law, Big Daddy! Are you supposed to like your in-laws so much? We love OURS! Big Daddy is on a mission to find a bigger love nest for his family. We ended up having lunch with Mr. Nanny,Cohen, Steph, & Big Daddy's Momma, Connie. Connie was house hunting with us or maybe I should say I was house hunting with THEM!

After lunch, we picked up Claire & Drew and headed to Coldstone Creamery for a little birthday celebration with the kids! Ice cream for ALL! Steph was even able to join us.

Which leads me to tonight.....
Chrissy & I had the most wonderful time meeting up with our friends Susan, Delphia, & Allie! Dinner was good, conversation was better! We then headed to see Jesus Christ Superstar...WOW!! The music was amazing! I especially loved when Susan leaned over and said, "Hey, after the show I have a question about Desperate Housewives". That is why I LOVE Susan, I laugh. Chrissy and I enjoyed our evening together, we enjoyed our time with the girls, and we are especially thankful to Big Daddy who held down the fort while she was away! Now I'm ready for our girls weekend!

Wednesday, April 22, 2009

Always a day late and a dollar short.

I am, just ask the director of the preschool the kids go to. So on this 22nd day of April, I want to wish Scot Phillips a VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!! Even if it was yesterday! First I will tell you a little story, then I will reveal his birthday gift.

Scot is wonderful. Let me give you an example. Last week Big Daddy (my husband) was working late so I found myself at Handy Nanny's house. Scot grilled out hamburgers and hot dogs for all of us. He fixed Drew and Levi's plate and got them situated before he ate his food. Simple gesture, but never unnoticed. He then cleaned up the entire mess while we all chatted in the living room. Upon completion of that task, he came in and grabbed Levi up and headed for the bathtub. Cohen wanted to go as well and he welcomed him with open arms! With the two little ones bathed and smelling delicious he got them dressed and started gathering up Drew and Levi's stuff. He wrangled them out the door and to the car.

And guess what....
this is totally normal!!

He does so much do make things easy for his dear wife.

His boys adore him.

He's a house cleaning, dinner cooking, bath giving, superhero playing, football coaching, NASCAR watching real life hero in my book.

For his birthday, I am giving him an official blogger nickname.
Happy Birthday
Superdad!

Sunday, April 19, 2009

Can you use air conditioners in hell?

Let me explain. Last week someone stole the air conditioner at a certain little church around here that just happens to be very near to my heart. Note, I said little obviously it's not the church I attend, but it is very dear to me. Okay, I don't believe that stealing earns you a one way ticket on the highway to hell...but stealing from church makes me wonder about people. Really, you might as well just walk in and swish your hand around in the offering bucket!

I'm going to try to take the highroad here and say that I will pray for the individuals who stole the industrial sized air conditioning unit. I can't imagine being so desperate that I would think that stealing from a church sounded like a good idea. The sad thing is...I'm sure if they walked through those doors and expressed a need, the people in that church would do whatever it took to help them. However, I get the feeling that these people really know what they are doing and it's probably got more to do with greed rather than need. Jesus be with them.
I remembered that not EVERYONE looks at my blog. I'm actually very surprised at how many people DO! I wanted to post the slideshow I made of our Easter weekend. We had a fantastic weekend filled with family, friends and an amazing Easter service! God is so good!



Click to play this Smilebox slideshow: Easter09
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Thursday, April 16, 2009

In a few weeks...

Steph, my mom and I are going to be here....



watching this...
for four nights.
Can you imagine how much fun we are going to have? I think it's just what the doctor ordered.

Monday, April 6, 2009

Just Wait...

Dr. Helen we adore thee.

Last week Steph and my mom went to meet with Dr. Helen to catch up. Not to be treated...just because Dr. Helen cares about Steph and wants to know how she is. As they were discussing the results they told her that the lymph nodes around her spine were still enlarged a bit. She nodded furiously and said, "YES, they will be! They will also continue to shrink along with the scar tissue. Radiation works for a very long time!" Did you catch that??? She said SCAR TISSUE WILL AND DOES SHRINK!!! This is great news! Steph and mom left feeling very encouraged and we are all looking forward to the next appointment in Houston. I BELIEVE that they are going to be scratching their heads and telling us that there is no medical explanation for this! Stay tuned...I have a little something special in the works. Have a wonderful week!

Thursday, March 26, 2009

Weak in the Knees.

I got the call from mom and listened to some of the news. I had to wait for the rest because Steph was calling her back. While waiting...I broke down and wept. I mean truly wept. Why?? Because our GOD is so amazing. He is working a miracle.

Let me give you a run down. They were checking the scans to see if the lesion on her ovary and the lymphnodes near her spine are responding to chemo. The doctor seems to think they are which is good news and bad news. The good news, you want cancer to respond to chemo. The bad news, medically speaking...it means that those two spots are most likely cancer. What is strange, is the fact that the doctor is not completely convinced that they ARE in fact cancer. Here's the plan.

Medically, she will continue with chemo but from what I understand we will be doing a maintenance program which means taking out the drug (not sure of the name at the moment) that has been making her so sick lately. This was music to our ears!!! They will rescan her in two more months to see if the areas are still shrinking. We are also TAKING CONTROL of our diets and eliminating sugar. It is what she needs to do and we are fully aware of the fact that it is very difficult to do in this day and age. We know that in order to be successful in this, we must stick together and make it TOP priority this summer.

Spiritually, Steph finally received a direction for prayer today. For so long we haven't had enough information to pray specifically and we really just prayed for her body to be healed. Today as the doctor talked about the "spots" on the scan he said that there is a chance that they are all just scar tissue. DO YOU KNOW WHAT THAT MEANS???? There is a chance that as she sits on that plane today...she could be cancer free!!!!! Here I go again...weeping. I stand so amazed in the Lord's work. I LOVED hearing that the doctors are a little baffled. For once I truly believe that it's NOT because they don't know what they are talking about. It's just...sometimes even doctors can't explain everything. The Bible can. Because of Jesus the blind have seen, the lame have walked and the hungry were fed. I believe that because of Jesus...Stephanie will be healed and restored to complete health. Our prayer for the next two months?

PRAY THAT THESE SPOTS ARE NOT CANCER! PRAY THAT THEY ARE SCAR TISSUE!

I will most likely have more news later, but for now I must go. I have a girls trip to the beach to plan! Which reminds me...I also have to do my Dancing with the Stars workout today too!!!

Thank you all for your prayers and support!! I can't say it enough...Thank you.

Wednesday, March 25, 2009

Baby Stellan

Remember in THIS post when I talked about the miracle baby Stellan? He is very sick. I have added a button to the side of our page that will take you directly to MckMomma's page. He needs our prayers. I am depending on God fully to heal my friend AND this baby. I know it may seem weird to some that I am so concerned for a child I don't even know...but his story has helped me through some really rough patches. His mother remains so faithful to the Lord even as she currently watches her child cling to life after being perfectly healthy just days before. He is a miracle and a constant reminder that God can and does perform miracles.

Tuesday, March 24, 2009

Here we go!

Today Steph will be scanned. We will know the results on Thursday. Please continue to pray and THANK YOU for leaving your wonderful comments. KEEP 'EM COMING!!!! They are so encouraging to all of us as we wait this week.

Steph texted me on Sunday as they were getting ready to take off. The boys were VERY excited about the flight. Levi couldn't believe he was in a real rocketship! Dan and Shelly, thanks for letting Levi ride in your rocketship. It was a real treat. They made it to Kathy and Tim's safe and sound. I received an e-mail from Kathy later that night and have a feeling the boys are being SPOILED to no end! I can't think of two boys more deserving of a good old fashioned spoiling!

Keep praying and, if you haven't already, leave a comment on my last post. I know it is so uplifting for Steph. Thank you so much for all your support. You are all so special to us!!!

For your entertainment, here is what we did Thursday while Steph was finishing up with chemo. Drew found the can of whipped cream and wanted to spray it in his mouth.

Drew: "BUT Nanny lets me do it!"
Me: "Well, sorry Drew, I just can't let you do that."
Drew: "BUT WHYYYYYYY?"
Me: "Because I have a better idea!"

From The View I Love the Most

From The View I Love the Most

From The View I Love the Most

Saturday, March 21, 2009

I'm going to beg here....

Scot, Steph, Drew and Levi will be leaving tomorrow for Houston. If you have ever had to make a trip like this or waited at home while your loved one went, then you will understand the emotions that come with it. If you don't understand...I pray to God that you never will.

First, words cannot express the love and appreciation we feel for the people who are making this so easy for the Phillips family. Dan and Shelly...there aren't words. These two angels have made arrangements to fly Scot, Steph and the boys to and from Houston in their plane. This means no lines, no plane full of germs and no worries about getting to and fro. Kathy and Tim...again, no words. These two angels provide a beautiful and comfortable HOME for the Phillips family to stay. Not only that, but they also watch the boys during the appointments. This allows Steph to bring her boys (which is so important to her) and Scot can still go to her appointments with her. I am overwhelmed by your generosity and love. Thank you from ALL of us. Please join me while you pray and PRAISE God for these wonderful people He has put in our lives.

Above all, we are still praying that GOD WILL HEAL STEPHANIE'S BODY!!!

Please also pray for all of us as we wait. This is hard.


I also want to ask a favor. For some of you "blog challenged" folks out there...you may have to step out of your comfort zone. I am begging EVERY SINGLE PERSON who is reading this...leave a comment. Tell Steph how she inspires you, tell her you are praying or simply just say hello. I know so many people read this and I know she would REALLY love to hear from you. She hasn't come right out and said it, but I think she could use some encouragement. So I will give you the steps PLEASE just leave a comment.



Step 1: Click on the title of this entry (I'm going to beg here...)

Step 2: Type your message.

Step 3: If you don't have a google account, I have allowed anonymous comments so just select the "Anonymous" button.

Step 4: When you are happy with your work, click on "Publish Your Comment"

Step 5: Pat yourself on the back because you just brightened Steph's day!

Thank you in advance! I will not know anything until Thursday but will post as soon as I know something. Thank you all for your prayers...we feel them...everyday. We cherish them...always.

Monday, March 16, 2009

Coach of the Year!

That's right! Our very own Coach Phillips was named the Class 5A district 11....

COACH OF THE YEAR!!!!!

Congratulations Steph! We are so proud of you!