I CAN'T HELP BUT SMILE

Sometimes for a family picture,

there's disorganization.....

.....and there's clowning around.....

And sometimes a bit of silliness.....

Once in a while..... a moment that is perfect.....

.....and if you're fortunate, maybe even two moments.....

And then.....

.....the fun begins.....

.....and the brotherly shenanigans start.....

.....and as they contemplate their next move.....

.....I just have to laugh.....

.....because they're my little boys.....

[she said as she shook her head and rolled her eyes in wonder]

.....and I honestly couldn't be more proud.....

.....honestly, not one bit more proud. 

Love you guys.

*The above photos were taken in October 2011, eight months ago. I am happy to report that since starting his new medication to treat Crohn's Disease & Ulcerative Colitis in September 2011, Blake has gained much more needed weight! Yay! I am also happy to report that Jon, my husband, has lost some not-needed weight! Yay! And since these photos were taken, I am happy to report that all the boys have learned to keep their shirts out of their flies. 

A Long Overdue Family Update

I am sitting here in front of the computer and I AM NOT MOVING until I finish this post! haha

All week long I've been trying to take half an hour to write a simple update. Then I think, "Well I'll just get [whatever] done first, and THEN I'll write". And of course I get side-tracked. It's happened all week, and today is the day that my hiney is not moving outta this chair until a post is complete!

Before I started the post, I read an article in our local newspaper about a dog that had wandered from its home here in The County and was outside for nine nights in frigid weather. The owners saw evidence of tracks leading to open ice where they assumed their dog had fell in. As the days and week passed, they had given up hope, until a neighbour happened to glance outside one day and saw what looked like the Great Dane in the field. He called the owner and they went out and the poor ol' six-year-old dog was just barely alive. They got him to the vet, and he is coming along fine, after losing a whopping 50 pounds. So naturally, my eyes were welled up with tears by the time I was done reading.

Then I turn to my blog site and get caught up on one of the blogs I follow about a little girl battling cancer. I don't know the family personally.... I just followed a link that I stumbled upon one day in 2009.... but I've been following their progress. They just found out two days ago that her MRI shows more signs of cancer, despite their battle thus far. The family is sickened and heartbroken. They had anticipated a good report after battling this disease for over 19 months now. They struggle with their emotions right now, knowing that the Lord has the power to instantly heal their little girl but wondering why He hasn't.

Honestly....

Why do I bother putting on make up in the mornings only to have it washed off with tears.

We just don't have the answers that we need sometimes to deal with life's situations. We question why we must endure the pain, the sadness, the frightful moments that we encounter.

But God continues to sustain. He promises to never leave us. In fact, He carries us through these times. Sometimes we're like a child who is being carried against their will, where we kick and hit and fuss and scream because we don't understand. But if we just can get to the place where we accept what's been dealt and continue to persevere and move forward, we can look back and see God's fingerprints and presence all over our situation. Those moments of reflection are good for the upcoming trials and tribulations of our lives.

Yes. That's right. There's more coming! More pain. More hurt. More sadness. We might as well accept that fact. BUT!.... [gotta love those "but" moments]... we can rest assured that God does not change, and He will be there to carry us once more.

As this little girl, Kate, and her family walk through this battle, please remember them in prayer. The button on the right side of the blog shows "Pray For Kate". Click on over to their site and support them in prayer.

We've been no stranger to battles ourselves over the last few years. Our household has been turned upside down a few times; but I want to just give some updates to you as to the life and times of The Found Family over the last while.

And it's all GOOD!!!!!

Let's start with Jon & Jake.
I'm grouping these two crazy characters together because they've been glued to the hip over the last number of months.

Jon and Jake have been travelling in portions of Canada and The States, and I think Jon is quite excited to have one of his "little" boys accompanying him. He enjoys having the company and the help. Jake has always had an interest in the truck and helping his Daddy. It was pretty much the only way he could get time to spend with his father, since Jon was away so much of the time when they were younger.

Jake has sat in the passenger seat many times, soaking in every movement Jon makes. He's watched Jon carefully to know when to shift, when to hit the clutch, when to signal, when to brake, how to turn the wheel when backing up, how much distance is needed when turning....... he's catalogued all these things in his head and is now sitting in the driver's seat. Although he was driving that big rig by the tender age of 14 [usually only across the flat prairies, thank the Lord!] and has sat on his Dad's knee since practically birth, helping to steer the truck, he has now become legal to drive the eighteen wheeler.

He got his medical done yesterday along with writing his driver's test for an AZ license. His appointment for the actual driving test is at the end of this month. The loving mother in me is extremely proud of his accomplishments. The worried mother in me wants him to fail that driver's test.

Know where I'm comin' from?

[sigh]

I don't think I'm ever gonna stop being concerned about my kids. Even when I die and I'm in Heaven, I can see myself walking with Jesus, looking down at the happenings on earth and watching my children and saying to Jesus, "Well are You just gonna stand there and let that happen???" He'll smile and wrap His arm around my shoulder, and in a most lovingly caring way, He'll say to me, "Shush up, woman. I've got it covered". haha.

I am glad that Jake and Jon have this time of bonding. It's funny to hear them gripe about one another, but they love each other and I think they'll be fine. They are currently working on ways to cut their road expenses. The purchase of a small refrigerator and 9-volt oven to use in the truck have already saved them money. It's cute to hear Jon get so excited about it. Says he should've done this twenty years ago. haha.

Health wise, they are doing great, although Jon should likely eat more salads. BHAHAhahaha. Sorry, Jonny. Couldn't resist. Jon looked at himself in the mirror the other day and came to the "sudden" realization that he had gained weight. I truly think that their new method of eating in the truck will help his situation.

As they come to your mind, please pray for them... for travelling mercies. It's hard not to worry about them; but I must keep in mind that God is still in control.

As for ME....
I could stand to lose a bit of weight myself. I've porked on the weight since Christmas. Not that my clothes feel any tighter, I just feel fatter. I think it's a lack of exercise. I borrowed my sister's treadmill, and I must say it works amazing.... when I actually USE it! Jared has been teasing me about using it, or rather the lack of using it. I just don't have the energy. And I know once I START using it, I WILL have the energy. It's just a matter of me developing a new routine.

I don't get 'inspired' often, but for some reason a few weeks ago, I was inspired to paint my bedroom. It has had white primer-painted walls for about 18 years now. I thought it was time for a change. hahhaaaa. I guess I just never felt the need to get it painted. There was always something else more important to do. And I'm only ever in there to sleep or fold some laundry. And when I'm sleeping, my eyes are closed and it's dark and I can't see the colour of the walls anyways.

But I decided it was time. So I went to the store when the paint was on sale and picked a colour I liked from the forty-ka-jillion colours to choose from. I chose a nice coloured green.... reminds me of string beans... Jake says it looks like vomit. I've seen a lot of vomit in my days with raising three boys; but I've never seen vomit the colour of string beans.... unless of course I'd just finished EATING them only to see them re-surface!

Well, I don't care what Jake says, I think it's a nice colour. The difficult part will now be to find a bedspread and curtains that will match. Should've got those first, I guess, and then chose the paint colour. Oh well. It's done. After 18 years. I like it. That settles it.

Danielle came over to help me tear wallpaper down in my kitchen. (I TOLD you I was feeling inspired! What is WRONG with me???!!!) She LOVES removing wallpaper. Can you believe that? She doesn't want to help me ever put paper ON the walls, nor does she want to help with painting; however she will be here in a heartbeat when the wallpaper needs to come down. I think she might have a psychological imbalance there somewhere. Jus' sayin'.

I also need to finish painting the trim in the living room. I bought the paint and got the hallway trim and doors painted (need to second coat some of it), but then for some reason I moved onto the bedroom. I start a project and then never finish it. Ugh.

Starting Monday, I need to get back into some paperwork again. I procrastinated over the Christmas holidays. Tsk-tsk. Need to get things caught up again in that area.

And other than running Jared around, that's pretty much what I've been doing, folks. Soooooo exciting...... not. haha.

And speaking of Jared....
This is one busy little character. I have been running non-stop with this fellow. He has been quite involved with highschool basketball, which includes an out-of-town tournament tomorrow and Saturday....

However.....

there is something ELSE taking up his time. Or rather I should say someONE!

Jarey has a girlfriend... Jarey has a girlfriend.

I am most pleased to announce that Jared has been "dating" a young lady named Karli. And she's divine. She is very much "mother-approved". What a lovely young lady. She's smart, polite, courteous, thoughtful and beautiful. AND her mother and I get along and can finish each other's sentences! hahahaha. Jon and I have both shared with Jared that he's got a good girl and if he messes this up, we'll be keeping HER and sending HIM on his way! haha.

It's been fun for me to hang out with Jared, while Jake is with Jon, and Blake is at university. I have always enjoyed watching the boys entertain with music and be involved in sports events, and Jared has certainly kept me hopping with the soccer and basketball and hockey games. He gives his all, and never ceases to entertain his Momma.

And finally, we have Blake.

I am sooooooo excited to report that Blake's health has been nothing short of amazing these past two months. Blake received his last dose of Remicade on December 13th, five days before flying to Brasil for four weeks. While in Brasil he experienced no pain with his Crohn's. His dear girlfriend, Anelyse, and her darling family spoiled Blake to great lengths and fed him foods that were obviously intestinal friendly! This week marks his eighth week since the Remicade dose and he feels fantastic. PRAISE THE LORD!

He said he has experienced no pain or other symptoms, and he will receive his next dose this coming Monday (Feb 7th). He has never made it a whole eight weeks without some type of pain, so we are greatly rejoicing!

He continues his studies in New Brunswick, and I will be quite excited to see him in March when we bring him home for his March Break. Not seeing him over the Christmas holidays has really made everyone here at home aching to see him.

And no, I was not upset about him being in Brasil over the holidays. My main concern was his health, and because he had a dose before departure, I was not concerned.... ok... maybe 1% concerned.... maybe 3%... but that's all. I was happy he could spend this Christmas with Anelyse and her family, since we got to have Anelyse here with us last year. And I was very relieved to know that his feet were on solid ground (upon arriving in Brasil and then again back in US and Canada).

He is experiencing an extremely heavy semester this term, so please pray for his mind and for his health during this stressful time. Stress can trigger Crohn's flare-ups, so he must pace himself accordingly. In the meantime, he is so thrilled that his health is presently good. And three cheers to the "higher ups" at his university who have authorized the kitchen staff to prepare healthier meals for their students.

Hip-Hip-Hooray!!!!
Hip-Hip-Hooray!!!!
Hip-Hip-Hooray!!!!

This will help Blake immensely, so he doesn't have to spend time preparing all of his own meals and can concentrate on his studies!

Oh, and might I do a bit of motherly bragging for a moment? Blake made the Dean's List last semester with a 3.56 GPA. We are very proud of him and know that the Lord is gonna use this boy..... man... [ok... but he's ALWAYS my little boy] in so many instrumental ways. The Lord actually already has used Blake for His glory during his whole illness! Expect to see that boy doing some amazing work for the Kingdom!

And on that note, I think I should close this post. You've had lots of reading, and I really have only given you a few hi-lights of what's been going on. But rest assured we are doing well at the moment. It is now our turn to lift up so many others that are in the midst of battle themselves. We were supported by so many during our afflictions, and we want to now pay it forward.

Until next time, God bless.

My Busy Boys

One would think with this "skeleton crew" on duty at our house, I would have lots of "spare time".....

NOT!

At this very moment I am actually taking my first break in quite some time. I'm in the rec room in front of the woodstove and the television and the computer! ha. I have "Saturday Night Hockey In Canada" on the tube, and just watched The Leafs goalie make an amazing save. Looked more like he was playing soccer, as he bounced the puck off his body and into the air. Fabulous save.

And speaking of soccer, I must update you on my youngest son's achievements this week. Jared's game last week proved to be quite intense as the PECI Panthers battled Nicholson for the Bay of Quinte championship title. I had a funeral to attend and then headed to the game, where I found our team down 2-1. The boys worked hard to regain momentum, but Nicholson fought through and won with a score of 3-1. You can see a fabulous photo of Jared (dressed in black & white) and a write-up of the game in The Picton Gazette by clicking HERE.

But even though the Senior & Junior PECI Boys Soccer teams lost last week's games, both teams moved onto COSSA (Central Ontario Secondary School Association) in Port Hope on November 4th. I am proud to report that Jared and his teammates won their first game and moved on to the finals. After a tough battle, they were defeated by one. Congratulations on your Silver, gentlemen. First place last year and second place this year..... that's a lot to be proud of!

The Senior team won their first game and moved on to the finals as well. Tying up the game, they treated the crowd to some overtime soccer where they scored the game winning goal, taking home the Gold. Congratulations to the Senior boys for their first-ever COSSA Soccer First-Place title! I am definitely a Proud Panther Parent!!!!!

[Oh... hang on.... big fight on the tv in the hockey game between a Leafs player and a Sabre.........
OK, it's over.... two in the penalty boxes! haha]

Anyways, the rain came down for most of the day in Port Hope, and unless there's lightning, you continue to play. The umbrellas helped the spectators somewhat, but we were pretty damp for the day. Unfortunately today, as temperatures drop, I am feeling the results. My poor ol' joints are aching quite a bit. I was hoping the woodstove would help, but I can't seem to get this heat to stop the throbbing in my legs and lower back. Sign of old age? [grin]

It also didn't help that Jared had a double-header in the cold hockey arena today. He won his first game, and then stayed to fill in as goalie for the next game, which resulted in a win as well. I'm tellin' ya, that boy just makes sports look so easy. He gives it his all, no matter how he's feeling. And those glove-saves in the goalie's net make it look like he's playing baseball!

I was recently asked if I really enjoy watching my boys at their sporting events. My answer? "Ohhhhh yaaaaaaah!" I really really do love it.....; wish I was warmer, wish I was dryer, but oh yah, baby, I LOVE it. I am so proud of them. Just like when I watch them perform with their fiddles and make so many people happy with their musical talents..... it makes me so thrilled. I don't think the boys will truly understand that until they become parents themselves. Or maybe it's just a Mom-thing. I don't know. But I do know I'm proud of them and love them sooooo much.

I never stop being concerned for them. Jon and Jake delivered in Chicago this morning, and I see on Facebook that they are staying at a hotel tonight in Chicago. Jon wrote that he had a nap while Jake went swimming in the pool downstairs. After his nap, Jon writes that he went to check on Jake and saw that he was in good hands! (Apparently there was a young lady swimming as well!). So MY first thought is: "Why on earth is my husband leaving my baby unattended in CHICAGO, of all places!". I replied to Jon's comment on Facebook by stating that perhaps it would be in Jon's best interest to ensure my son's safety in that city or else his transport would be his new home! And Jake can spend the winter at home with ME!

What's hard for me to remember is that Jacob is an eighteen (almost nineteen) year old boy, and when JON was that age, he was travelling to Chicago ALL BY HIMSELF! It's no wonder his poor mother worried and never wanted him in the trucking industry. I didn't worry about Jon taking Jacob with him in the truck because they're TOGETHER; but when hubby is snoozing away and Jake is walking around by himself...... well..... let's just say I'm likely not gonna sleep well tonight. I've said this in previous posts, but can I once again state that I wish my children were still babies, toddling around at my feet?

And my eldest son that is around a 13-hour drive away is not excluded from my concern either, although I must tell you that he is doing WONDERFUL. Blake received his infusion of Remicade on October 26th in New Brunswick. By that evening, he felt considerably better! In fact, I think he stated he even felt better that afternoon! I don't know what ingredient in that drug makes it so effective, but "hats off" to the man or woman that discovered it!

Around the middle of this past week, I had sent Blake a couple of messages asking how he was feeling, as I hadn't really chatted with him much since his infusion. He said he was "fine"... his favourite word! I said, "Well, on a scale from one to ten, one being bad and ten being perfect, where are you on that scale?" He replied, "A twelve!" YIPPEEE! I was thrilled.

The other night he called and said he was interested in playing some pick-up hockey with some other folks in Sussex. I had to chuckle a bit because Blake has NO interest whatsoever in sports events. (He played T-ball as a little boy, and he played house-league soccer for about two years as a young boy; but his interests have always been more in music.) So I was taken aback when he said he wanted to play hockey. I said to him, "You realize that's the sport with the little round black piece of hard rubber that you chase across the ice with a stick while on skates, right?" hahahhaaa.

Then he informed me that their ice-time was at 10:30 at night! Oh brother. All I could think of was that Blake needs as much sleep and rest as possible with his disease, yet he's heading out to play hockey at 10:30 at night? But, as a friend reminded me today, it's only pick-up hockey, so if he gets tired and needs to sit down, then it shouldn't be a problem. It's not likely to get too aggressive for him. I just hope he listens to his body!

He still has a very busy schedule with his school work, and he is continuing to make most of his own meals. I am hoping that with Jon and Jake trucking so hard lately that we will have a bit of extra money for December so we can maybe fly out and spend some time with Blake before he heads to Brasil for Christmas and New Years. I'm trying to not get my hopes built up in case it doesn't work out; but I sure would like to see him before he heads out. Otherwise I won't see him again until March. It's certainly an adjustment after spending the whole summer right by his side as we were in and out of hospitals. But at least his health is coming along; I am grateful for that fact.

Well folks, I must put another log on the fire. I need to eat something for supper (it's already 9:20pm!). Jared is out with friends tonight so I'm having some yummy leftovers. I wasn't hungry until now. I could kill for a big slice of pizza! haha

Thank you to everyone for remembering us in your prayers. [You know who you are!] God is faithful. And we are blessed.

Until next time...... keep your stick on the ice. [grin]

(Next post I'm hoping to show a video that will give you an idea of something I've been involved in lately! Hmmmm.... think you can guess?)

You Asked For Updates, You've Got Updates!

Once again I've gotten side-tracked and not been faithful in making some posts to keep you all updated. I don't know what's been going on lately with me! One would think that I would have lots of time with two birds out of the nest.

But nay-nay.... lots going on. When I make a list of everything I've been doing, I imagine that I could have it all completed in just two full days.... so why has it been a whole week? I don't know. Maybe I just have trouble focussing. All I know is that before I know it, I'm crawling back into bed after a full day and have to wonder what filled up my whole day?

I know some of you can relate.

So because I've been running into many folks who keep asking about how the boys are doing, I'll give an update here today.

I have a bit of time today for blogging because Jared had to miss today's hockey game. Jared fills in on one of the Bantam league teams because there were not enough Bantam-aged kids to form teams. Midget players were brought down to help fill in and build up the numbers. (Some Peewee players may have been brought up to play as well; I'm not sure about this, though.)

Yesterday at the highschool's soccer playoff game, a Moira player's knee connected with Jared's front thigh, and down Jared went. He hobbled around for a bit and was able to finish playing, but after the game the leg was pretty sore. He was in a lot of discomfort last night and this morning, so he decided it would be too painful to play hockey. (Sorry about that, Coach Clark!)

That boy gives his all when he plays. It amazes me. In fact, I've told him to STOP playing so hard! He doesn't care if he gets hurt! I will tell you right now that he did NOT inherit that trait from his Momma! He's had more bumps and bruises and cuts and skin ripped off his body. He has sat with his leg up some evenings after a game and we have watched his leg, where the skin has been ripped off, literally ooze!!!! It's not pretty, folks!

The boys on the PECI Panther teams (Junior & Senior) have done an excellent job on the soccer field this season. I am so proud of all the players (even the opposing teams) who go out to play soccer (or any sport!) to support their school. I'm glad we have programs like this. Thank you to the teachers and the coaches (that's you, Dave Mather!) who volunteer their time to these kids. It is greatly appreciated.

So Jared will spend today relaxing to rest his leg, and hopefully he will feel better for the Midget hockey game on Sunday evening. My goodness, I'll go through withdrawal if he can't play! I'll have to just go to the arena anyways and watch his teammates play! haha.

As many of you know, Jake has been working in Georgetown with Jon's friend who is a landscaper. As soon as Jake graduated from high school, he was outta here! He has enjoyed his time up there; but 'tis the season for him to move on. The landscaping work pretty much comes to an end this time of year.

He could've stayed on to do some snow plowing, but since you never know how much snow you're going to get through the Winter, Jake has decided that he would like to truck with his Dad over the Winter. I told him I thought it was a great idea; however, we are of the understanding that he'll be returning to the landscaping business in the Spring. He assures me this will be the case.

Jon and Jake are just now leaving South Dakota with a load of pork and heading to Toronto. They seem to be having a good trip together. Jon says that just having Jake with him feels like he received a blood transfusion. I told Jake to ensure that Dad doesn't sleep in the bunk while Jake unloads the trailer by himself! haha. They just finished updating their Facebook statuses, so I think they're good to go!

Poor Jake must return home this week in order to receive a root canal on one of his teeth as well as a wisdom tooth extraction. He's been in a lot of pain, but the antibiotics have been doing their job and settling the discomfort in his mouth. He was bet and bound, though, that he was going with Dad in the truck! I expect to see them return home some time on Monday.

As Tuesday rolls around, we will breathe another sigh of relief as we anticipate Blake receiving his next dose of Remicade in New Brunswick. Things are all set up for his meds to be administered in Saint John.

His discomfort has been quite minimal, although he did have a bit of pain and fatigue a few days at the end of September or beginning of October. He missed classes one morning and I believe there was another day where he laid down for an afternoon nap and slept through his class. (But he felt better after the nap!)

He was home for Thanksgiving weekend, which we were thrilled about, and he seemed to be feeling relatively well. I was talking to him on the phone the other morning and he asked me to hang on as someone was at his door. I overheard the conversation; and when Blake returned to the phone, he clarified to me that the person was someone from the maintenance department who had very kindly taken the time to make Blake a crockpot of homemade soup! Blake said he'd been talking to her about a month ago when she asked about his health situation, and then she shows up with all this soup for him! What a blessing! Oh how New Brunswick reminds me of Prince Edward County! People are so kind.

So Blake's friend, Aaron, will graciously drive Blake to Saint John early Tuesday morning for his infusion. Blake said that he was supposed to have an exam that day, but his Professor is kindly letting Blake write it the next day. (Thank you, Mr. Professor!!!) Thankfully Aaron has no classes scheduled until later that day, and since Blake's appointment is 8:30am (I think), then there shouldn't be any problems in getting back to the school in plenty of time.

Blake has conveyed to me that his workload is extremely full... overloaded....; however, he says the work comes quite easy to him, he understands it very well. He says, "There's just a LOT of it!". It's apparently very time consuming, along with the hours that he is required to put in at the library. He works 8 hours per week. Now add the fact that he cooks his own meals and must do his own dishes and cleanup and add some laundry in there...... and don't forget about chat time with his sweetheart (Hi Anelyse!), it gets to be a jam-packed schedule. I think he's getting enough sleep; but I also know he's like his Momma and if that sleep time gets broken or cut short, look out! hahaha.

So overall, he's doing well. I so appreciate the school that he's attending. They are a very caring bunch of staff and students and community, and I would recommend Bethany Bible College to anyone!

So, what's up with Jon? Pretty much the same-old-same-old. Jon is still enjoying his life in the trucking industry. He's happy out there doing what he does best. These shorter runs ('shorter' meaning that he's gone 5-7 days as opposed to 10-12 days) seem to be working out really well for him. If he does come home tired, a good night's sleep seems to suffice; whereas he used to come home and sleep and would never truly get caught up.

Jon is thrilled that Jake is travelling with him for the Winter, and I think they'll have a good time. Jon is a hard worker and gives his all.... good attributes to pass on to his children. He has more love for me and our boys in his big toe than many have in their whole heart. He never gives up and he's willing to help anyone who needs it. I am hoping the boys forget our bad habits and traits and are able to focus on these good ones. I am a very fortunate woman to have Jon in my life.

And speaking of me and my life, it certainly has been busy lately. I am very happy that much of my time is spent with or for my boys. I thoroughly enjoy heading to all of Jared's sporting events (even like yesterday when I was bundled up with three sweaters, a winter coat, ear muffs, gloves, boots, a blanket AND a sleeping bag on the soccer field sidelines! It was c-c-c-cooooold!). I am happy to sit in the hockey arena bundled up, sitting on a blanket, and cheering on those kids!

I spent one afternoon this week at a funeral for my friend Linda's husband. Steve became ill early this past Summer and was given only possibly a few short years to live. Unfortunately he lived for only approximately another four months.

Now I know that we're programmed in this world to believe that a funeral is not a good thing. And of course, none of us are happy about someone dying. However, I have attended some amazing funerals where it was a celebration of their life topped off with a parting "see you again one day". If you've never attended a funeral like that, I can assure you that you are truly missing out on an amazing event!

I have attended many funerals of celebration where the service was a testimony of our Lord in their lives. And I left with the assurance that I would one day see them again in eternity. I would leave those funeral services and think "THAT's the kind of service I want when I leave this earth!".

Well, that's exactly what I said when I left the funeral service for Steve. After we heard an "Amen" praise song by two local amazing musical artists, we spent the next 45 minutes or so of the service hearing story after story about Steve. It was non-stop. We heard of things he'd done and said, impacts he'd made on others' lives, his love for family, friends, community, his job..... as well as the love that others had for him! And then the service turned to about ten minutes of God's thirst-quenching presence in our lives. It wasn't "preachy", it wasn't "flowery".... it was to the point. It made an impact. A brilliant presentation of an acapella Amazing Grace was given once again by the two amazing musical ladies, whose voices in that old United Church with the high ceilings and amazing acoustics sounded like that of angels!

Meanwhile, throughout the service, you could just see it was hard for Linda to sit still in her seat. She was itching to jump up and praise Jesus throughout that service. As the casket was wheeled down the aisle to the back of the church, Linda's face beamed with radiance and a smile stretched from ear to ear. She clapped her hands to the song which was blaring through the sound speakers... Life Is A Highway... apparently one of Steve's favourite songs.

Oh, Lord, that I would be able to praise You like that under such circumstances! It's the heart's cry.... Fill me, Lord; mold me; make me; use me....... ANY time, ALL the time...... even at a husband's funeral. What a testimony to the saved and unsaved!

It was truly a celebration. God is alive. Even at a funeral. His presence is everywhere and with us all the time. Even during the dark times when it's hard to maybe sense His presence. He's there, folks. He's always there. Ask Linda. She'll tell you the same thing.

God bless you, Linda, as you grieve the loss of your husband and friend, and know that God shone through you on Wednesday. We love you.

Well, friends, I have more to write about, but I think I'll save it for another post. Jared and I are excited to watch some good ol' Saturday Night Hockey In Canada tonight as we watch the Leafs defeat the Flyers (might want to pray for this to happen because I have SO rubbed this in a friend's face (all in good fun) and don't want to stand with egg on my face or have to eat humble pie! haha).

Trusting that you enjoy some great quality time this weekend with friends and family. We truly do not know how long we have with them. Cherish every moment and opportunity.

Until next time, God bless.

Nine Days? REALLY???

Just what in tarnations is my problem?

NINE DAYS since my last post???

Can anyone tell me where this week went to?

I know that part of the problem is the head cold I've been suffering with. Jon passed it on to me, and as of Monday Jared has acquired it. There are a LOT of ill people right now, including many of the students at school.

Jared said that his school is full of kids not feeling well. I am hoping that is not the case with Blake in New Brunswick! That boy does NOT need any more illness, for sure!

I thought perhaps with school starting, I might have some extra time and find myself developing "a new routine". But nay-nay. That is not happening.

With the beginning of school also comes a bag of other things.... school sports, such as soccer, which Jared is currently in. After soccer he starts basketball. Then this Sunday is the formations in House League Hockey. So in a couple of weeks, we'll be in the cold arena with our hands wrapped around some nice hot cups of coffee or hot chocolate.

Then add Youth Groups to the mix. Youth Group at our church begins this Friday. Jared is also attending a Youth Group that meets Tuesday nights in Bloomfield.

Add some events that I, myself, am involved in. I am singing at The Shed in Milford this Sunday with The Shirt Tail Cuz'ns. It's a local annual fundraiser, and I am always pleased as punch to be included. I will be singing "The Log Driver's Waltz" as well as a song by The Isaacs called, "There's a Little Bit of Heaven".

On October 16th, I'm also singing with a group of 20+ women at another fundraiser. We had our first rehearsal on Sunday and the harmonies were divine! Trinity is emceeing the evening, and I'm excited to participate with such a talented trio. I will likely be singing two songs by The Isaacs: "There's a Little Bit of Heaven" as well as "If That Don't Make Ya Wanna Go". It's hard to know exactly what to sing, but both of these songs are quite peppy, so I'm sure they'll be crowd pleasers.

I'm sure I've mentioned in a previous post that our government has FINALLY given approval for Blake to receive the extremely expensive medication he needs for his Crohn's Disease. He also is authorized to receive the meds in New Brunswick, as long as the medication is shipped from Ontario. We are thrilled with this long-awaited positive news. I have already spoken with our Remicade Co-ordinator in New Brunswick, and she and Blake have set the date for October 26th. She is very accommodating in trying to work with Blake's school schedule. Between her and our Remicade Co-ordinator in Ontario, I don't think I've met two nicer ladies. They certainly make a difficult situation easier to bear. Hats off to you, Krista & Simona!

Blake's studies are proving to be jam-packed. He finds the work fairly easy; however, the amount of books he needs to read is time consuming. He also must fit in eight hours per week at the library. The food that is served at the school is NOT to Blake's benefit. He said it actually makes him feel terrible, and we cannot risk him getting ill; so he is making his own breakfasts and suppers. He has purchased the food program that allows him to choose one meal per day from the cafeteria (either lunch or supper). He will feel better with consuming his own prepared meals, but will likely take advantage of getting one meal per day from the cafeteria, especially if he has a heavy-scheduled day. This is, unfortunately, time consuming for him to cook his own meals with an already busy schedule, but he's been utilizing a slow-cooker that Grandma Fraser bought for him, so hopefully once he gets his routine down, things will hopefully flow along at a good pace.

His health seems to be pretty good aside from busyness; but please keep him in your prayers. He can still be prone to flare-ups even on the Remicade. We are also in the process of getting him a family doctor in Sussex as well as a Gastroenterologist in Saint John. These two doctors both have excellent reviews, so I'm excited to get Blake under their care. Blake will continue to keep his current Gastroenterologist in Kingston. The doctors will work as a team (which thrills me!). We are thankful for the Lord's mercy extended to Blake through this battle, so I'm confident God will continue to keep him under the shelter of His wing.

Jake is still busy working at the landscaping business in Georgetown. Because the weather conditions limit his employer's ability to do landscaping through the winter, Jake has decided he might like to go trucking with his Dad for the winter. I am OK with that as long as Jake promises me that trucking doesn't become his full-time career! haha. It will be good for Jon to have Jake travel with him. They'll be chums! [hahaha.... that's referencing our late Nanny Saunders' comment from many years ago!]

I miss Jake being home. Even though we lock horns sometimes, I still miss him. It will be nice to know he's with Jon and that I'll get a chance to see him a little more often through the winter months.

Jon is, of course, busy in the trucking department. Things are picking up again in the economy.... it's always a bit slow in August and early September, but by the end of September, things get rockin' for Thanksgiving and Christmas. I can't believe another year has almost passed by. If it keeps going this fast in the future, there'll be no time at all for anything!

I am pleased to see Jon feeling healthier and happier. We have learned a lot over the last few years..... we've learned how fragile life can be; we've learned how much we appreciate and love one another; we've learned how precious our marriage is, and how precious our boys are to us; we've learned that a few people are hurtful, but we've also learned that some people are the kindest, most compassionate folks you'll ever meet; we've learned that everyone sooner or later faces a battle; and we've learned that God has a plan for each of us. And I know that the trials we experience happen for a reason. Though I'm not necessarily sure of the reasons, I know down the road that the experience will prove to be beneficial, for me or for someone else. That's reassuring.

And now the time has come that I must get ready for Jared's soccer game. I hope the above brings you up to date with the Found household. Once again I promise to try and keep things updated a little more regularly. I am extremely excited that a new Bible Study series begins this Friday morning at our church, so I'll likely be sharing with you as I go through those lessons. It's another study by Beth Moore, so I'm quite excited to get the ball rolling.

Until next time, folks, remember where your help comes from --- your help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth.

God bless.

Here's a pic of me with the boys back in August 2010. Jon was on the road; that's why he's not in the photo... we didn't kick him out or anything like that. haha.

Your Faithfulness

Through the trials we've experienced the last few years, we naturally have many questions as we go through them. We don't like the trials and tribulations because they can bring us pain physically, mentally, emotionally.....

But in going through these difficult times, I have learned what others have said about going through trials... that you come out stronger and closer to God. And when I say stronger, I refer to relying on God's strength. You sure don't feel strong in the middle of your trial, but if you continue to reach out to God and rely on Him to help sustain you through those tough times, He gives you the strength to get through them and you come out stronger in the end.

The battles that we face don't just usually have an affect on one person, but on anyone surrounding the one(s) going through their war. Take Blake, for example. He is the one battling the Crohn's Disease. It's his body that hurts and aches and suffers in a physical sense. It also wreaks havoc on him mentally and emotionally as well. But his battle with Crohn's also affects others: me, his Mom; and Jon, his Dad. It affects his brothers, Jake & Jared. It affects our homelife and the way we try and lead our lives. It affects the grandparents and the aunts and uncles and cousins. It has reached out it's long arms and affected Blake's friends, co-workers, church family, school mates, teachers, community folk.........

The one thing that remains constant through the trials is God's faithfulness. He is always with Blake.... always..... even times when the rest of us can't be there for him. God has His plan for Blake's life, and for our lives. We don't know what tomorrow brings for us. Realistically, we don't know what is going to happen an hour from now.

But God does.

And it is up to us to reach out to Him and fully rely on Him whole-heartedly.... to know that HE.IS.FAITHFUL no matter what tomorrow holds.

On August 22, 2010 Blake took his spindly little body up to the platform at church, grabbed his guitar, and played and sang a song as a testimony that is possibly one of the most beautiful songs I've heard.

I want to share that song with you.

Unfortunately, I do not have a video camera that I could tape Blake singing it. But I did get some photos of him. In the video below, you will hear the voice of Brian Doerksen singing the song "Your Faithfulness". I have posted the words under the video, which I encourage you to follow along while Brian sings. There are no pictures in the video, only sound.

Blake.... you don't think you can play the guitar very well, and you don't think that you can sing very well (and we all disagree with you!); but I will tell you that the Holy Spirit moved in you that morning and blessed many many people. I can't listen to this song without shedding tears as I think about the struggles you have been through. I am thankful that at such a young age you are able to rely on Jesus to help you through your battles. I've said this before, and you've heard it in The Isaacs' lyrics: "there's not a battle that I cannot win, we've already won the war". Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus. We're so proud of you.







[Please scroll to the bottom of the blog page and hit PAUSE on the blog music before starting the video.]










YOUR FAITHFULNESS
Sung by Brian Doerksen


I don't know what this day will bring
Will it be disappointing or filled with longed for things?
I don't know what tomorrow holds
Still I know I can trust Your faithfulness



I don't know if these clouds mean rain
If they do, will they pour down blessing or pain?
I don't know what the future holds
Still I know I can trust Your faithfulness



Certain as the rivers reach the sea
Certain as the sunrise in the east
I can rest in your faithfulness
Surer than a mother's tender love
Surer than the stars still shine above
I can rest in your faithfulness



I don't know how or when I'll die
Will it be a thief, or will I have a chance to say goodbye?
No, I don't know how much time is left
But in the end, I will know your faithfulness



When darkness overwhelms my soul
When thoughts and storms of doubt
Still I trust You are always faithful, always faithful



Certain as the rivers reach the sea
Certain as the sunrise in the east
I can rest in your faithfulness
Surer than a mother's tender love
Surer than the stars still shine above
I can rest in your faithfulness



I don't know what this day will bring
Will it be disappointing, filled with longed for things?
I don't know what tomorrow holds
Still I know I can trust Your faithfulness

Off To College!

Our bird has flown the coop. He is in his new nest waaaaaaay faaaaaaar awaaaaaaaaay from here.






But only in miles.







Or rather kilometers.....







...... because he is always near to us in our hearts and minds.







We struck out for New Brunswick on Saturday morning and experienced excellent weather conditions all the way. We anticipated rain and wind from Hurricane Earl, but Earl decided to show some mercy and did not really affect many areas of the east. At one point we ran into a bit of misty rain, turning the windshield wipers on only a couple of times, at their lowest speed. The sun shone magnificently with big beautiful white fluffy clouds layering sections of the sky. Perfect travelling conditions.







My brother-in-law, Brent, accompanied Blake and me, and we arrived late Saturday evening and headed to our hotel. After a great sleep we spent Sunday unloading the van and getting Blake settled into his dorm. Then we headed to Wal-Mart to purchase a few things that Blake needed.






Sunday evening we attended the "welcoming service" at Bethany Bible College's gorgeous sanctuary. What an amazing church. And what an amazing service. My friend, Renie, and I understood one another's tears. She was leaving her oldest son behind in New Brunswick, so her eyes were glossy periodically throughout the day. By the end of the church service, my eyes were just continually spilling over with tears. The Holy Spirit just filled the sanctuary and our hearts during our worship time.





Earlier that morning at the hotel's breakfast nook, I spoke with two other moms who were dropping off their sons. We all talked about the tears we shed at these times, and I indicated that we're the moms... we're allowed to cry... it's our job. haha. But God understands our tears. He knows we are leaving pieces of ourselves at the college when we hesitantly climb into our cars and strike out for our homes.... that are many many many miles away from our baby birds.







It was wonderful for me to hear Blake laugh as he greeted friends he hadn't seen since last Spring. Being in the boys' dorm, we were surrounded by young men. Brent chuckled at the sight of so many males actually hugging each other and not embarrassed to do so. I know from Blake's health situation last Spring that so many of these boys care about one another. They're watching out for one another, and that really brings comfort to a mother's heart and gives some peace of mind!




Blake's first official day of school was yesterday, Wednesday. I texted him last night and asked how things went. He indicated that he feels it will be a busier and fuller semester than the last one. I told him that he should not sacrifice his health over ANYTHING, including school. He can always take an extra semester for any course that he struggles with, but he cannot play around with his health. It's hard for me to let go, but I know I have to.... to a certain degree. :o)







Speaking of Blake's health, I spoke with our Remicade co-ordinator for Ontario on Tuesday. She called me to confirm the address of the clinic where Blake's medication would be sent in late October......








Huh?.....







I said, "The specialist's secretary told me that it was illegal for you to send it out there, despite me telling her what I'd been told in the past [that the meds could be shipped from Ontario to New Brunswick]." The co-ordinator said, "There is absolutely no problem in sending this medication out to New Brunswick to Blake, and it will be fully covered under Trillium's Drug Plan."







I just shook my head. I thought, "Would it have been THAT hard for the specialist's secretary to say to me last Friday, 'Michelle, I'm sorry; I was misinformed, you were correct in what people told you.' " Instead I was led to believe that other strings had been pulled in order for Blake to get his meds.







In the long run, it doesn't really matter. The fact is that the kid is receiving the meds he needs. But it just is so frustrating that I am constantly being told something different from every person I talk to.





But I will tell you that I am soooooo happy to deal with our Remicade co-ordinator here in Ontario as well as the co-ordinator in New Brunswick. They are both delightfully kind women and I wish everyone in the world could be even half as terrific as these two ladies.




So the bottom line is that Blake will receive a dose around the end of October and then his next dose will be about a week before Christmas. I am thrilled. I am doin' the happy dance. hahhaa.




Well, Jon is eagerly anticipating his time on the computer, so I need to stop typing. I want to close with a few pictures of Blake in New Brunswick. Please pray for him as he comes to your mind.






Blake in his dorm room





Blake's desk area

Storage space under his bed

Closet (not much room for clothing once we put the fridge in there, but there wasn't room anywhere else for the fridge.)







Blake giving his girlfriend the tour of his room via Skype (sorry it's blurry)

Blake chatting with his Brasilian sweetheart, Anelyse via Skype. (Hi Anelyse!)

l-r: Sydney (Blake's cousin); Andrew (Blake's roommate); Christoph (Blake's friend); Blake

Did I mention that I miss him already? ;o)

Family Updates

I should have some words of wisdom....

or a funny joke.....

or an updated picture of someone in my family.....

or a comical video......

or a beautiful hymn......

I should have SOMETHING interesting to post on here......

But, frankly, I'm so tired tonight, I don't believe any of it would make sense.

I just thought I'd give a quick update on Blake's situation.... which is basically the same as the last few weeks..... other than he's getting more and more fatigued with each day..... as well as experiencing some back and abdominal pains.

Yes, Dose #3 is just around the corner.... if we could get a bed at Kingston Hospital. They called on Friday (and left a message on our machine while we were actually STILL in Kingston for Blake's appointment at the clinic!!!), but when I called back to the admitting department, I had told the lady there was not much sense in us coming and waiting for four whole days before he'd even get his meds (which by the way only takes two hours to receive). I told the lady I really thought for that amount of time that perhaps someone who was really ill and needed the bed should have it, and that she could call us Monday or Tuesday when a bed became available.

Well, obviously a whole lot o' people decided to run to Emerg this week and get admitted to the hospital because we have not received any word yet of an available bed. Now I'm frustrated thinking that we should've just taken the flippin' bed on Friday and sat the whole weekend in there twiddling our thumbs. At least Blake likely would've had his meds by today.

Oh well, the Lord is still on the throne. And He's not up there pullin' His hair out and wondering what's gonna happen next. He's aware of the situation and He knows how to handle it.

So THAT, folks, is the long and the short of it.

As for the rest of us, well, let's start with Jacob. My middle son who has moved to the big city has obviously decided that he's quite capable of living away from home and not having to give his mother ANY kind of update WHATSOEVER. Clearly it's as if he's dropped off the face of the earth. I mean REALLY..... WHAT boy can't pick up his cell phone and at least TEXT his mother two or three words????

"Hi Mom"

"Doin' fine, Mom. Don't Worry"

"Everything's going great here, Mom"

"Mom, send money"

"Mom, any clean clothes you could FedEx to me?"


Nope. Nothin'. Not a gosh darned flippin' word out of him.

He is SO grounded when he gets home.


And Jared? Well, as you've read from previous posts, his soccer season finished with a placing of FIRST (way to go, Jeb). His baseball tournie last week moved them to the championship game; however, Mr. Rain moved in and things got postponed to Thursday night. So tomorrow night we will meet head-to-head with a team who has been known to be a little.... ummmmm..... aggressive. They are out to win. Having a coach who likes to come in first at all cost is NOT a good thing in my books. He was whining to the officials last weekend about some issues that weren't really issues in anyone ELSE's books; but he was just bein' a pain in the hiney, I guess. So.... we get to play HIS team. [Oh JOY! Oh BLISS!]

I told Jared, "PLEASE just go out and have fun! And if there are any problems, you can be assured I will yank you off the field before you lose a bunch of teeth!". Apparently this team started a fight with the other team on Monday night. One kid ran right out to the pitcher's mound to clobber the pitcher. Another player moved in to protect his pitcher and.... well, I just don't want to see that happen Thursday night. That's not what I signed my kid up for. I hope we have an extremely strict umpire who doesn't put up with that kind of nonsense. I'd make them all run laps so they're too tired to fight. hahaha. Guess that's why I'm not a coach.

So, I am praying that this last game of the season is fun for the boys. Hopefully, as parents watching from the stands, we will be able to encourage them to enjoy themselves. They're a good team of kids... I've had a fun season. Have fun, Wellington Lynx.


And Jonny? Well, he's truckin' his little heart out. He's out West right now. Had deliveries in Saskatchewan and Alberta. He's waiting for a load of pipe to come off the line and then will take it to Nebraska, where a load of meat awaits him to come to Toronto. Worked out to some good coin, so I hope it all clicks. He's loving being back on the road. I'm glad for him. He's gone through more in the last few years than anyone should have to..... he deserves something good for a change. Go get 'em, Jonny-Boy.


And as for me, I have appreciated some time to get caught up on some little things. Still have a bit more paperwork to attack, but overall I am pleased with some stuff I've got done around the house. It's not perfect by any means, but I am slowly getting things to a point where I can do some painting and updating. I've mentioned before that our bedroom still has just the primer paint..... that's been there for about 17 years. Oh well, at least I can see where the mosquitoes land on a white wall. hahha.

Well, folks, I'm gonna hit the hay. I'm really drained tonight. I have gone through this week with a truly thankful heart for so many things. Unfortunately I have not been keeping a list as I should be. (I should be keeping a list so I can write them on my other blog, My Gratitude Journal.) But as I drive or go outside or read or do housework, I spot things that I take the time to say, "Thank you for [this & that], Lord. I appreciate that."

I truly am a blessed woman.

And now, back to you folks. You have all been busy, I'm sure. Drop me a line and let me know what's up. Summer is busy and we'll soon be back in our "routines", but I miss speaking with so many of you. (And SOME of you are NOT UPDATING YOUR BLOGS! tisk-tisk). Take a second and drop me a line through the Comment section below, through gmail email, or through Facebook. I want to know how you're doing.

And I certainly will update once Blake hears from the hospital.... or if Jared wins the championship game.... or if Jake remembers his Mom's cell number......

[grin]