Visiting Grandparents

Yesterday, my family visited my grandparents in Fishersville. I wanted to attend, but as soon I woke up in the morning, I knew that wasn’t going to be possible. It was an HPS flare-up day and thus I spent most of yesterday in bed. I still find it discouraging and disappointing to alter my plans, especially when they involve family visits. However, our friend Linda stayed with me until everyone got home, so that made me feel better. Below are a few pictures Mom took of yesterday’s visit.

Aunt Jackie and cousin Laura:

Mom and Qavah:

Qavah opening a gift:

New books to read with Daddy!

Playing with Grandmom’s cat:

Qavah with Granddaddy looking on:

Comments:

1. Aunt Lil Says:
   September 8th, 2007 at 10:54 pm

   I think Grandaddy is just reading a book, as always!! Thanks for sharing these, Katy, and so very sorry you didn’t get to go along. I can imagine your disappointment, and how I pray that Jesus will guide the doctors to know what they should do. I can’t imagine what it is like to go back to these symptoms over and over, I know that you feel Jesus’ presence with you, and know you just keep on clinging to Him, our refuge and fortress, our God, in Whom we trust. Love, Aunt Lil

2. Jenice Pearl Says:
   September 9th, 2007 at 5:38 pm

   Katy,
   What a blessing it was to visit with you today after worship! I was twice blessed in meeting Qavah there. She sparkles that one! May you continue to feel well. I look forward to seeing you Thursday night.
   Jenice

3. Jess Says:
   September 9th, 2007 at 8:05 pm

   I love the new pictures! They are so fun! Thanks for sharing them. I’m sorry that you didn’t get to go on the outing - I’m amazed by your resiliency. I know it must get discuraging for you to alter your plans but like your mom has posted before - the Lord really has given you a joyful spirit! I enjoyed visiting with you for a few minutes this evening and I look forward to more Sundays when we can chat! Noah was so cute when we got home - he wanted to tell Daddy everything that went on! I’m sure Qavah was the same way!
   Love ya!
   Jess

Delights of a Sister

I’m trying to update more often on my site, since I told Mom yesterday that I wanted the Medical Update’s section to stick to mostly medical-related updates and issues, rather than “Qavah” stories. It has been one full week and the week is not over yet! I am finding that I’m wanting or needing to be with Qavah so much that my schoolwork is a bit neglected. When we are babysitting Annelise, it takes both Mom and me to watch the girls. Fortunately, I was able to get some paperwork accomplished last night and this morning on the way to my doctor’s appointment. I’m also going to do some tonight, now that Qavah is sleeping.

We’ve had several doctor appointments this week and that always throws off the routine. I expect I’ll get into the “groove” eventually and everything will even out in the end. I’m thankful I’m only taking six credits this semester and that I’m almost done. I praise the Lord I did not have these HPS flare ups and issues when I was just beginning college.

The failed Prednisone taper was a source of frustration this week. I feel the adverse side affects of that drug everyday. All of my doctors tell me I need to be off of it. And yet, my body seems to crave it like candy. My primary care physician, (PCP), whom I visited today, agrees that we may need to increase the Imuran dosage while I’m trying to taper the Prednisone. Fortunately, the PCP offered to talk with my endocrinologist and gastroenterologist himself to figure out another plan of action. I’m so grateful, because sometimes I get very weary trying to manage my own care with the medical community.

The PCP also took extra blood work today, so he can begin observing vitamin levels with my malobsorption issues. Qavah watched me get “stuck” today and I think it helped her emotionally. At least, when my doctor’s appointment was finished, Qavah was extra joyful…I think she was just thankful she wasn’t the one being poked and prodded today!

It has been delightful to watch and play with Qavah. I’m learning patience and how to be silly, all at the same time. Qavah is always interested in helping me around the house. So, I am teaching her how to unload the silverware tray from the dishwasher. She doesn’t exactly get the hang of “big” and “small” spoons, but she actually does quite well with the sorting.

I’ve been trying to do about an hour of school with Qavah a day. This week, we are working on the letter “A” and color “red”. I’m constantly amazed at Qavah’s thinking patterns, interests, and requests. She just mesmerizes me!

I’m also getting a new realization of how much the Heavenly Father must enjoy watching us as I observe my little sister. Earlier this week, we were playing “house” together. Qavah was holding her baby doll and, all of the sudden, she started leaving her bedroom, so I asked her where she was going. Qavah didn’t answer, so I followed her to the bathroom. She had undressed her doll and gotten a wet washcloth from the shower to clean her “baby”. Qavah was very gentle and thorough. I didn’t tell her to clean her baby, but at four years old, she was already displaying love and careful attention to detail.

Comments:

1. Aunt Lil Says:
   September 6th, 2007 at 8:08 pm

   Katy, I believe Jesus will need to give you some miracle help to get your adrenals back, and that’s been my prayer for some time. But you need to try all the medical avenues, and I hope this team really gets to work on planning your program so you don’t have that undue burden.

   This is a sweetheart of a letter as you give us a look at your interaction with your little sister. May the blessings of joy continue! Love, Aunt Lil

2. Trisha Ferris Says:
   September 7th, 2007 at 7:38 am

   Qavah is very blessed to have you, Katy, a sister who notices even the little positives in her behavior. She will grow up knowing she has value & being able to appreciate even the smallest gift from God. This is part of what God meant when He told you He had work for you yet to do.
   Trisha

3. Heather Kirkwood Says:
   September 8th, 2007 at 9:57 pm

   Hey Katy,
   I’m so sorry to hear about the steroid issue - I know how frustrating that can be! I’ve had a tough week so I haven’t been able to check in as much as usual, but reading about you and Quavah puts a smile on my face!

Birthday Celebration

Last year, I spent my Birthday in the guest room on TPN. I couldn’t eat and I had to sleep in between surprise visits from friends. This year’s celebration was very different! We had a family party with ginger noodles, carrot cake, and Aunt Julie visiting. Thank you for the emails, cards, and well-wishes. I had a fun day!

Several weeks ago, Mom asked me what I wanted for my Birthday. I replied, “My sister!” So, in addition to actually having Qavah here, I also received a charm from my new sister that says, “Little sister”. Below are a few pictures from the celebration.

Comments:

1. Aunt Lil Says:
   September 4th, 2007 at 9:27 pm

   Katy, thanks so much for the pics. Its hard to tell WHO or which is the real party girl! I’d say one had as much fun as the other! May the Lord Jesus give you a blessed, much more healthy year ahead. And I pray that the prednisone decrease will go well and that you will be able to complete it. I am so thankfor for this much more SENSIBLE plan for reduction!

   Love you, Aunt Lil

2. Adam Thompson Says:
   September 4th, 2007 at 9:49 pm

   Happy Birthday, Katy! Hope you’ve had a great day!

3. Sandy Says:
   September 5th, 2007 at 12:19 pm

   Those pictures are great! I’m so glad you had a good day!

4. Karen Tillman Says:
   September 6th, 2007 at 11:23 am

   I am so glad that this year was much better, and here’s to a lot more good years to come!!!
   Love
   Karen Tillman

Sunday Pictures

I will probably create a new web page soon where I can post pictures of Qavah. Until then, here are some pictures from my parents’ trip and today:

Introducing My New Sister:

Qavah meeting Daddy:

Qavah reading with Daddy:

Qavah with Mommy at the Hospital getting a transfusion:

Qavah with Mommy:

Qavah with Paul Burton and Katy after Church:

Comments:

1. Trina Miller Says:
   September 2nd, 2007 at 10:30 pm

   Hi Katy and Family. Qavah is so beautiful! Your family is such a blessing to me and I can’t wait to follow Qavah’s journey in the days ahead. Yes, she needs her own page so we can see more pictures. What a beautiful smile!!!

2. Doris Harriff Says:
   September 3rd, 2007 at 9:20 am

   Looks like Qavah is very happy with her new family! But, oh, those skinny little arms - so noticable in the picture where she is hugging Mommy. I guess it’s what Lily said, probably a factor in the disease she has.

3. Fairlight Says:
   September 3rd, 2007 at 10:50 am

   Oh, what a BEAUTIFUL smile she has! She is so precious. Thank you for sharing all the pictures…and welcome home, Qavah!

4. Aunt Lil Says:
   September 3rd, 2007 at 12:15 pm

   Katy, both you and Qavah look RADIANT! Blessings on your new sisterhood! Love, Aunt Lil

5. Karen Tillman Says:
   September 3rd, 2007 at 7:46 pm

   Hey Katy,
   How beautiful Qavah is!!!! I know you are excited to have her home with you and your wonderful family. I will pray the transition to continue smoothly, and that your prednisone taper will go well. It is truly a drug one desires to be rid of!!!
   Love to you and your family
   Karen Tillman

6. Sarah Says:
   September 3rd, 2007 at 8:56 pm

   Oh your new little sister is so darling and beautiful!!!

7. Jess Says:
   September 3rd, 2007 at 9:02 pm

   Hey!
   It was soo good to see you and the rest of the family at church yesterday! You are going to be such a great big sister!!! I’m excited for your family - we can’t wait to meet her…

   I’ll pray for the taper! We love ya!
   Jess

8. LouAnne Says:
   September 4th, 2007 at 9:01 pm

   Oh!! She IS radiant! I know it must be such a blessing to have your little miracle home with you at last. Please know you have our prayers during her transition and we’re not that far away should you need anything at all. ((((Happy Hugs))))

Anticipation

Last night, we began our new semester of small group. It was a blessing to meet again. Dad did a wonderful and meaningful job with the Bible study, based on Acts 9 with Ananias’ obedience and Saul’s conversion. The title of the study was, “What is required to follow Christ?” I always love Dad’s teaching; God has certainly given him a gift. The meal, prepared by Mom and some of the other members, was delicious as well.

Do you ever wait and anticipate for something so long that when it actually happens, you almost don’t know what to think or say? That is what it happening with my parents’ traveling to get Qavah this week. I’ve dreamed of this week for months. I’ve prayed about the details ever since we began this adoption. Now, the time is here and I don’t know what to write! Everything feels almost surreal…like I’m in a movie that’s playing in slow motion. I’m just thankful we don’t have to wait any longer. I know the transition won’t be easy, especially for Qavah, but I also know this is God’s plan. I have confidence He is going to work everything out, continue to grow our faith, and amaze us all with the process!

Requirements to Following Christ (Bible Study Outline):

1. Totally depend on the Lord

2. Wait on the Lord’s timing

3. Communication

God calls us for a very specific purpose and work. We need to be in constant communication with Him. In addition, we should see if the Lord has has reconfirmed the commandment. Finally, the commandments or plans the Lord gives us to do will always be consistent with His character and Biblical teachings.

4. Recognize God’s authority over your life

5. Obey (In the end, Ananias obeyed whole-heartily.)

Comments:

1. Sandy Says:
   August 28th, 2007 at 8:49 am

   I have definitely waited in anticipation for big events and then hardly know what to say when when they happen! This is such an awesome week for your family! God’s peace to all of you.

2. Julie Says:
   August 31st, 2007 at 5:52 am

   Katy, you all will be making adjustments and that is totally normal. But Qavah, just wait and see how she will adjust. Kids are so resilient and adaptable. And, she is at a very good age to make an excellent adjustment. I wish all the best for you and your family and look forward to hearing the many many stories you will share with us.

3. Aunt Lil Says:
   September 1st, 2007 at 2:02 pm

   I missed this until today, Katy! Great Bible Study for me… wait for God’s timing! Yes, that’s what I’m doing. Love you much, Aunt Lil

4. Carrie Thompson Says:
   September 1st, 2007 at 7:54 pm

   Hi Katy,
   I missed this until today, too! Great outline of the Bible Study. Thanks for sharing. I’m looking forward to seeing ya’ll in Church tomorrow, Lord willing.
   Love,
   ~Carrie

Tuesday Night

It’s been a busy, but wonderful day! Mom babysat Annelise at Colin’s house until 3:00pm, so I was home alone for a good part of the day.
Aunt Julie stopped by for a short visit on her way home from Bible study. It was so good to see her! I enjoyed having her as a “bed buddy” in the hospital, but I think it’s safe to say we both prefer seeing each other outside of Roanoke Memorial! I also had a half hour piano lesson. That was really fun, because I’m beginning to read notes. My lessons are always very relaxed, but at the same time, I am learning. More importantly, I’m enjoying the process.

The later part of this afternoon and tonight was spent working on my Jamaica album. I actually finished all of the scrapbooking! Now, I need to go back and journal the pages. I can’t believe it took me a year to complete just one album, but I’ve had so much fun doing it. The colors are bright and cheerful. I think I was really able to capture the essence of my two mission trips. The entire time I scrapbooked, I felt the joy of the Lord. Someday, I look forward to seeing the Christian Jamaicans in Heaven.

Speaking of “someday,” Mom and I finished another week of Bible study tonight. I shouldn’t be amazed at what I’m learning in Daniel, because God is who He says He is and will do what He says He will do. However, what is stated in chapters 7 (especially) and 8, as Beth Moore said, “were prophecy to Daniel but history to us”. The four world empires I studied in Western Civilization at Virginia Western several years ago were prophesied in Daniel 7 and the empires existed just as the Lord said they would. What gets me really excited is how precise God is…it makes me look forward to, with renewed fervor, the time when Christ will reappear. I alluded to Ephesians 6 and the Armor of God on the Medical Updates’ section and I included verse 17 there. However, I want to include the entire section below.

The Armor of God

“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. 18And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.” -Ephesians 6:10-17.

Comments:

1. Aunt Lil Says:
   August 23rd, 2007 at 11:38 pm

   Wow, Katy, I missed this one! and a great one, too. I try remember to “pray on” the armor every morning. I believe it gives me both protection from the enemy and power to make effective the “Sword of the Spirit” whenever I find an opportunity to use it. Keep up the Walk! Love, Aunt Lil

2. Laura Griffith Says:
   August 26th, 2007 at 2:22 pm

   Would love to see your scrapbooks I’m seeing all kinds of bright colors. At least you have one finished, I’ve been working on Lorien’s “baby book” and have only gotten to her first few months of life. I’m so slow at it. Maybe I can get some inspiration from yours. Qavah will be blessed to have you as a sister

Misc. and Website Housekeeping

It has been two weeks and two days since I began Imuran. The difference in my body is amazing! The transformation from before Imuran to how I feel now is even surprising me. I’m so thankful. I began the drug August 1, almost to-the-day I entered the hospital the second time last year (after the appendectomy). I remember on one of my first posts on this website, I asked if I would ever be able to really “live life,” again instead of merely observing it. These past two weeks are evidence that I am able to enjoy life again. Life will be forever changed and different (my daily medications’ box is testimony of that), but it is still pleasant and filled with surprises, joys, and God’s goodness.

Here are several random “newsworthy” musings:

1. Yesterday, I finished Constitutional Law I! As I told a friend last night, to most people this would just seem like finishing another course. But to me, completely C.L. is significant, because I began this course last summer, several months before the initial hospital stay and HPS diagnosis. As my friend said, “What an end to a book-filled [meaning eventful] year.” I want to thank my instructor- who is a reader of this website- for her patience and support over this past year. She was pleased with my final assignment and I received an A for the course. To God be the glory!

2. Sandy asked me to post my academic plans for Fall. Knowing that they can change at any time, I am planning to finish my final two Mary Baldwin College courses, so I can graduate in December. These course are Media Law & Ethics and Senior Thesis. I have to write a 30+ page senior thesis with the topic yet to be determined. I’ll keep you posted.

3. I realized that several previous posts where pictures had been posted no longer existed. One example is the post from August 21, 2006 titled “CELEBRATE” under Medical Updates. On this post, I described Granddaddy’s Birthday party. Well, I have now posted pictures here, on the Photos-menu of Katy’s Musings.

4. I have updated the Literati page of Katy’s Musings with a website recommendation and book review.

Comments:

1. Sandy Says:
   August 18th, 2007 at 10:05 pm

   Praise God for these good days and quite a turn around from when I first started to know you last year! You’ve come a long way. I look forward to hearing about your classes! Writing a thesis can be a crazy journey all by itself, so just enjoy the ride.

2. Mike Theesfield Says:
   August 19th, 2007 at 9:51 am

   Hi, Katy!
   I well remember the comments in which you wondered if you would really live life again; they’re what inspired me to start posting here.

   An A for a conservative in Constitutional Law? Your college must be a conservaticve one! It seems to me that the all-too-typical liberal colleges teach that the Constitution means just about everything except for what it says!

   Liberal College: The 2nd Amendment actually provides for the existance of the National Guard, rather than individual rights.

   Me (with tongue lodged firmly in cheek): Well, of course! I should have realized that the word “people” in the 2nd Amendment is synonymous with “National Guard”! How wise our Founding Fathers were to ensure our individual rights by giving the government the right to arm a National Guard…

   Liberal College: The 1st Amendment stipulates the separation of Church and State.

   Me (T-in-C): Yes! The words “separation of Church and State” are right there in the 1st Amendment, right where it says- uh- well, anyway, I always knew that those evil Ten Commandment plaques in the courthouses and those nasty school prayers happened because of laws made by Congress!…

   Liberal College: Federal social programs are Constitutional and necessary.

   Me (T-in-C): Well, OBVIOUSLY the 10th Amendment stipulation that “those powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States respectively, or to the people” was intended by the Founding Fathers to apply only when there was public consensus on a Tuesday night with everyone hopping up and down on one leg while whistling the theme to “Green Acres” with the windshield wipers running, unless vetoed by Nancy Pelosi…

   I could go on, but I’m sure many people (National Guardsmen, of course!) would tell me that this is quite enough!

   Hugs and donuts, hon!

   Cousin Mike

3. Aunt Lil Says:
   August 19th, 2007 at 10:45 pm

   Katy, Congratulations “mille fois” - a thousand times! for the course completion and the A. That is a most remarkable achievement - an honor not only for you, but for the Lord, not to mention your proud family!

   You know, I just went back and listened to that wonderful children’s choir at the end of the April 8th entry here - it is SO inspiring, I would like to try to find that video and buy it. Anyway, I tried to enlarge the screen with the children singing, and I ended up with a second screen and the same choir singing on top of the first one, and it was glorious! Like a round! Hearing one part sung in background and another in foreground. You should try it! Do you have any idea how to get a copy of that?

   Love, Aunt Lil

4. Aleah Yunger Says:
   August 20th, 2007 at 7:57 am

   Congratulations!! I know that amazing feeling of finishing up a semester, but for a class that has taken you so long to make it through — I’m sure the blessing is tenfold what it would normally have been!

Eternal Perspectives

I was telling a friend today that there is so much I want to share on this Blog, but I’m often too exhausted to or just don’t have the correct words. I concluded by saying how thankful I am that, in Heaven, Christians will have all of the time they need to share what the Lord has done for and through them.

“Oh, how sweet is a harbor after a long storm, and a sunshiny day after a dark and tempestuous night, and a warm spring after a sharp winter! The miseries and difficulties that a man meets with in this world, will exceedingly sweeten the glory of that other world.” -From the book Smooth Stones. (Thank you, Jennifer B., for the quote.)

The theme for today seems to be “Having an eternal perspective”. This morning, I read the quote above. Then, this afternoon my friend and I finished the Bible study Walking By Faith (Jennifer Rothschild). The last week’s lesson was on “waiting with an eternal perspective”. Rothschild- who has been blind since 15 years of age- made the point that sometimes God does not “heal” our desires, because He wants us to long for Heaven. If He answered all of our desires than we would most likely not look forward to Heaven as much as we do or ought to.

It has been over a year since I first entered the hospital, thinking I “only” had Appendicitis. The Lord has humbled me in every way and it was needed. He has shown me His ways. Sweet moments have come out of every hard event. After a year of this HPS rollercoaster, I can emphatically state that the Lord’s grace is indeed sufficient. However, one of the lessons I have learned and experienced the most is the one of keeping an Eternal perspective.

Everyone has sorrow and heartache- if not presently surely in the past and/or future. Sometimes in the hospital, Mom and I came across other people with worse sorrows than mine. Right now, I’m following several websites of children with cancer. My heart aches for their family and friends. The question for us as Christians is, “How will I view these sorrows and will I let God display His glory through them?” In answering that question myself, I’m more able to live it out correctly if I keep an Eternal perspective, knowing that my “light and momentary troubles” are “achieving an eternal glory”, by God’s grace (2 Cor. 4:16-18).

My heart longs for Heaven. I know the Lord has more for me to do here, so I will learn to wait contently. However, I do agree with the quote above. For me, the “miseries and difficulties” of this world do make the realities of Heaven sweeter.

Comments:

1. Effie Says:
   July 28th, 2007 at 8:22 pm

   Dearest Katy,
   “The miseries and difficulties that a man meets with in this world, will exceedingly sweeten the glory of that other world” - that is a wonderful quote and how true it is! You have shown this attitude throughout this entire struggle and it has been such a blessing to those of us around you. You have given credit to Him and thanked Him for the trials even though some days have been exceedingly difficult, and that’s putting it lightly! Thank you for your sweet spirit and never-ending encouragement. I am so thankful to be able to call you my sister in Christ. My family and I have prayed daily for you to feel His presence and that His healing hand would strengthen and encourage you. Thank you again for the blessing. I look forward to spending some time with you when you are stronger. Let me know when you feel up to it.

   In His love,
   Effie

2. Laura Griffith Says:
   July 28th, 2007 at 9:38 pm

   I’m in awe about how the Lord works in your life. I do pray that you will have many pain free days ahead. I know you are so excited about your little sister arriving. I hope it will be a joyous occasion when she joins your family. You have much to share with her.

3. Jennifer S. :-) Says:
   July 28th, 2007 at 11:12 pm

   Katy,
   It’s so good to see you posting again and it was great to talk to you earlier. I’m glad you’re doing better. I will pray that it continues and that you will remain in good health when your sister comes. It’s so exciting!
   Love and prayers,
   Jen

4. Sarah Says:
   August 7th, 2007 at 2:26 pm

   That is so wild what you mom said last week! God is so good and we are very excited about this blessing #4!

For a Friend

I normally don’t do these, but I have a blog friend (and member of our church) who “tagged” me, so I thought I’d do it for her. I like her questions, anyway.

1). What is your favored worship song/hymn?

That is a hard question!

Hymns: Trust and Obey, Great is Thy Faithfulness, Jesus I am Resting Resting, Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing, Blessed Assurance, Savior Like a Shepherd Lead Us, and My Faith Has Found a Resting Place.

Worship Songs: Before The Throne of God Above, In Christ Alone, Grace and Peace, any many others that seem to change depending on my mood.

2). Favorite verse, and/or chapter in the Bible?

My Life Verse is Psalm 119:105. However, I also love the Books Isaiah, Psalms, Daniel, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, and Hebrews.
3). What lead you to God? Let us hear your testimony!

When I was eight years old, the Lord revealed to me my need of Him. I remember particularly that the frequent missionaries who spoke at the church amazed me with their zeal for the Lord- even at that young of an age. I wanted to be like them and I remember thinking, “If they are giving up everything for the Lord, than I must really need Him, too.” I then recommitted my life to God at age 12 after a hard and rebellious period in my life. I do believe, though, that I have grown closer with the Lord the most during this past year (since I first became sick in July 2006).

4). How do you live day by day with the Lord?

Well, some days are not as “successful” as others, of course! However, I find that if I have a guideline, I stay more focused. I subscribed to Turning Point’s (Dr. David Jeremiah) Daily Devotional. I also read Spurgeon’s Morning and Evening Devotions. Currently, I’m doing the Beth Moore study of Daniel: Lives of Integrity, Words of Prophecy.

5). Living Bible? NIV? KJV? The Message? Which is your favorite and why?

Growing up, I used the NASV. Most of the verses I’ve memorized are in KJV, though. Currently, I’m using the NIV version and that is my favorite. Some day, I would like to buy a parallel translation Bible, but I can’t ever find one in large enough print for me.

Comment:

1. Amanda Says:
   August 20th, 2007 at 4:04 pm

   Hey Katy!
   I found out about you through my mom a while back and I have been keeping up with you through your web site since then. I admire you for doing the Daniel study right now. It’s not an easy one! Well, I just wanted to say hello. God bless you today!
   Love,
   Amanda

Busy as Bees

I saw a bee the other day when I went outside to examine our ever-growing flowers. He was so busy buzzing around me. This week, I felt like that bee, buzzing around the house and Roanoke. It’s been a whirlwind of a week, but the days have been filled with God’s mercy, goodness, and answered prayers. The beginning of the week was hard, because of the Prednisone taper experiment- a venture that went awry from the beginning. Now I know that I cannot taper without first having another drug in place, but I didn’t realize that last Saturday when I decided to taper. It’s frustrating to feel “stuck” on a drug that I know is not really good for my body, but the alternative is worse. Much worse. I was in bed with a total HPS flare up for five days. It’s awful to have everything from head to toe inflamed. My ears close up, so I can’t hear and even my eyes hurt, so I can’t read. I utilized the HPS “support group” this week and found it to be encouraging. While I don’t wish HPS on anyone, I am thankful I’m not alone.

Last Sunday night, we had some friends arrive for a week-long visit. The husband was doing a project with my Dad’s business. It’s always neat to show visitors the sites and sounds of the Roanoke Valley. It felt good to have company in our home again! I always enjoy hearing people’s life stories and what God is doing for them.

The Thursday doctor visit was definitely a highlight of this week! I have never felt more hopeful after leaving a doctor’s office than I did that day. Now, I trust and pray this doctor will follow through with everything we discussed. I do have to say that my arms look pretty beat-up, though. I had labs drawn at Wednesday’s appointment and then again on Thursday. Fortunately, I still have about four weeks before my next Remicade treatment. My arms will be recovered in time to be poked again.

Yesterday, Mom and I shopped at one of my favorite stores: Goodwill. We found some deals for both of us and Qavah. I like coming home from shopping trips and showing Dad what we bought. When I was little, I used to pretend I was putting on a fashion show for him. He always admired my choices. I’m grateful to have parents who are interested in my delights, hobbies, and adventures.

Today, Mom and I shopped again, but this time it was for a Qavah. Her 4th Birthday is July 18, so we wanted to get a package in the mail right away. Also this week, I began corresponding with Qavah’s oldest foster sister. That has been fun. I look forward to developing a friendship with her.

That about sums up this week. I have five books in my nightstand that are begging to be read, so I’m going to go now. I’m praying I’ll be able to attend Church tomorrow. Then, maybe tomorrow night Dad and I will play a board game. We said we wanted to do a game together this weekend, but the hours have flown by. I’ll be sure to win!

Comments:

1. Karen Tillman Says:
   July 14th, 2007 at 9:33 pm

   I am with you Katy, HPS is no fun, but I am truly thankful for our small circle of HPS support. I know I don’t know where I would be without them. Probably stil misdiagnosed.
   Love always
   Karen Tillman

2. Martha Harrison Says:
   July 14th, 2007 at 11:27 pm

   Katy, I just read your Mom’s encouraging posts of the last two days. I feel so happy when you are having good days! God is good all the time, but it hurts to see you suffer. What a wonderful answer to prayer your new doctor is and will be! From what your Mom shared, he must be a very wise man, AND a godly man! Bless you for sharing with him how God has worked in your life through your suffering! As I have told you before, I get a spirit boost everytime I visit your blog. You and your family will continue to be in my prayers. Thank you for blessing so many with your testimony of faith in life’s good and bad times. I can truthfully thank God for the trials in my life, for that is when my faith has become stronger. He is our refuge and strength, everything we need, He is!!
   Much love in Him, Martha Harrison

3. Mike Theesfield Says:
   July 15th, 2007 at 8:27 am

   Katy, I’ve been looking for an opportunity to post this, and when I saw your comment about the bee- okay, it’s a tenuous connection, but oh well…

   Anyway, a few weeks ago, I was right here at the computer, and the window immediately to my left (along the back of the house) was open (but there’s a screen). I heard the sound of an animal coming along the back of the house. My first thought was raccoon. But a snout came into view, and my next thought was “I thought the dog was inside (she was).” I immediately realized that the snout was black, and for a split second I thought it was someone else’s dog. But no.

   It was a small black bear.

   He was so close that I could have spat on him if the screen weren’t in the window (not that I would have tried!). He was just meandering along, oblivious of me, and no doubt keeping a lazy eye out for food. If I’d been quicker on the uptake, I might have taken a picture before he was out of the yard. Anyway, it was an interesting departure from the routine!

   Cousin Mike

4. linda burk Says:
   July 15th, 2007 at 8:29 am

   HI Katie, wow a good day..I am soo happy for you..you deserve only good days…………
   I am enjoying our flowers too..our daylilies are blooming along with some black eyed susans. I LOVE my flowers…somehow they come back every year and I am sad if we travel and I miss them.
   we were in New York this week and saw two broadway shows. Curtains and Jersey Boys. Both were fabulous. We walked around China town and Little Italy. A busy few days.
   Happy Birthday to your little sister. JT was four when he came home from Korea. love to all, Linda

5. Heather Kirkwood Says:
   July 23rd, 2007 at 4:20 pm

   I’m glad you found the HPS group useful. Sometimes I get so frustrated that we can’t offer more - but honestly, I don’t know where I’d be without all of my HPS friends. Many of them have been at this “HPS” thing much longer than I have, and they always have wisdom to share because many of them have “been there.”

Happy 4th of July!

It’s been a pleasant day around here. I’m enjoying having Dad home today, even though he’s busy working on projects. It’s just good to have him nearby. I’ve gotten some emails written this morning and this afternoon, a friend is visiting for some Bible studying, movie watching, and fun! I’m learning how to be content on “bed rest” and it’s not all that bad. Sometimes I get a little stir-crazy, but usually a change of scenery is all I need.

Several friends have emailed me recently, asking if there are any new developments with Qavah’s adoption. Right now, we are waiting for Louisiana to finish it’s paperwork with Richmond, Virginia. The Louisiana social worker finished up her paperwork a week ago and sent it on to her state capitol, but she told us Louisiana has been slow with finalizing adoptions. We are praying we get the “travel announcement” soon, because all of us want to travel while I feel well. Mom has been communicating with Qavah’s foster mother, so I am learning more about my little sister and it’s very exciting! We’ve also received some pictures via email and postal mail. Below is a picture of Qavah, taken at her school in mid-February of this year.

Comments:

1. Aunt Lil Says:
   July 4th, 2007 at 8:56 pm

   Katy, so glad you’ve been having a great 4th being INDEPENDENT of so much that held you back. Also so glad that you have a little sister close on the horizon to brighten future prospects for you. I can hardly wait to see you together- by picture at least! May the Lord hasten the day until His perfect time for her to come HOME.

   Much love, Aunt Lil

2. Jennifer Blugerman Says:
   July 4th, 2007 at 9:58 pm

   As Christ was carrying the cross to Calvary, bloody, beaten, weak and in pain, I wonder if He found strength in the knowledge that He was preparing a place for his brothers and sisters! Qavah is a blessed little girl to have a sister like you anxiously preparing a place for her even in the midst of much pain and trial. Happy Independence Day, Katy! We’re so glad you’re home!

   -Jennifer

3. Julie Says:
   July 6th, 2007 at 10:55 am

   That little face is adorable! I can’t wait to squeeze her!

4. Sarah Says:
   July 7th, 2007 at 9:36 pm

   Oh I’m so excited for you and your family! What joy it will be for you to have a little sister!! You are going to have so much fun!! I hope and pray the paperwork is done quickly and little Qavah is home soon.

5. Laura Griffith Says:
   July 8th, 2007 at 3:15 pm

   Lorien is liking the picture and wants to come play right now….we will learn patience

6. kendall Pelish Says:
   July 9th, 2007 at 6:24 pm

   Hey man, I missed being on your front porch watching PBJ set off the works this fourth.

7. kendall Pelish Says:
   July 9th, 2007 at 6:25 pm

   or is that a new years tradition? its been a while

Sister Preparation

I have been wanting for weeks to post about my new sister, but I had to wait until our immediate family and grandparents found out first. You know all of that spring cleaning, decorating, and shopping Mom and I have been doing for the past two months? Well, there really was a “method” to our madness! We had to rearrange several rooms to make space in another bedroom for Qavah’s things. Mom and I also shopped and prepared the little girl “essentials”; toddler bed, baby doll with outfits, adorable size 3 and 4 feminine clothes, and child-friendly books. I also helped Mom clean the toys I used while growing up.

The Lord has given me such hope with Qavah’s adoption. There have been days in the past weeks where I was on strong pain killers and could barely get out of bed and yet, the Lord gave me the strength to get ready for my new sister. There were times I felt His leading to prepare for Qavah so strongly, even though I was weak or tired physically. Some days, when I wanted to hide under the covers or go to Heaven, the thought of Qavah’s adoption literally kept my spirit alive and “living” on this Earth instead of pining away for Heaven (when it was clearly not my time to go meet Him). Qavah has already brought much joy to my life, even before I’ve met her.

Now, our home is ready for Qavah and I’m trying to wait patiently until the day Mom and Dad bring her home. Throughout this entire adoption process, I have been thinking of my own adoption and how it relates to Qavah’s. The Lord chose this home for both of us before the foundations of the earth. He has given us parents who call Him by name, live by His precepts, and then teach His Word to future generations. He has given us family and friends who do not view biological children verses adopted children negatively or differently.

The Lord has also given Qavah and I similar health issues that most siblings do not share together. Some families have one child with special needs. However, Qavah and I both have rare genetic disorders that require daily monitoring, frequent hospital visits, digestive problems, and diet changes. She’ll see me get my Remicade infusion and I’ll stay with her while she gets her blood transfusion. I am blessed to have parents who, for years, have supported me and researched my many health challenges. However, little Qavah has not had these benefits in her short life. While Qavah has been in foster care for two years, she still has not experienced a “forever family” who will do anything and everything to show their love and commitment to her. Now, she will be coming to the home the Lord has prepared for her, complete with praying parents, a helpful brother, and a sister who can truly understand all of the health challenges she faces. Together, Qavah and I will be able to sympathize and identify with each other at a deeper level than most siblings. We will be able to pray for each other with an accurate realization of what the other one goes through.

I want Qavah to know and recognize the sovereignty of God and how He has already prepared our home, hearts and lives for her arrival. The Life Verse our family has chosen for Qavah is Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future”. I look forward to watching Qavah experience the “hope and future” God has planned for her life. And I’m thankful He has chosen our family to be a part of that plan.

Comments:

1. Jess Says:
   June 6th, 2007 at 8:39 pm

   Katy -
   Your thoughts on your new sister are so cool! I’m so excited for your whole family - but you are right - you have a unique perspective on Qavah’s situation! There is no one who can understand her like you can! God has given her a ‘guide’ to help her chart the waters ahead of her - what an amazing gift! We will be praying for you guys as you transition and your family grows!

   We love you!
   Jess

2. Aunt Lil Says:
   June 6th, 2007 at 9:57 pm

   OH MY GOODNESS! OH MY GOODNESS!
   I’m stunned! But God bless you all and God bless the little one coming. His ways are mysterious, but He does all things well, bless His Holy Name.

   See you tomorrow, sweetie! Aunt Lil

3. Candice & Crystal Says:
   June 7th, 2007 at 12:45 am

   Hey Katy, Congratulations on your new little sister!! I know she will be a wonderful addition to your family. I too enjoyed reading your personal thoughts. You are an extremely gifted writer. May the Lord bless you and your family as you anxiously await the arrival of Qavah. Love, Candice & Crystal

4. Laura Griffith Says:
   June 19th, 2007 at 12:55 pm

   I look forward to having Lorien and Qavah play together. Sounds exciting to hear about the “play area” as well. I know you didn’t write about it but I received an email that mentioned it. I do hope you recover quickly from your surgery so your little sister can come home You are in my prayers.

5. Martha Harrison Says:
   June 27th, 2007 at 3:18 pm

   Dear katy,

   Your new little sister, Qavah, has blessings upon blessings in store for her! I am surprised, too, but can clearly see by the sincerity in your writing and your mother’s that this has been planned by God. His word is faithful and true…..all things work together for good for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28. My heart is happy for all of your family!

   Love in Him,
   Martha Harrison

P-A-N-I-C

I’m thankful tomorrow is Thursday. It’s been a long week, so I’m already looking forward to the weekend. Today was a slow and uneventful day. I had more abdominal pain, so I spent the majority of the day in bed on pain medicine. I haven’t eaten much, which might be a good thing. I could stand to lose a pound or two.

Tonight, I’ve been talking to friends and perusing different websites. I discovered that the Scripps National Spelling Bee is taking place this week. The Bee wraps up tomorrow with the final round being televised live on ABC. I actually found a really neat Bee Blog by Sean Mussenden, a reporter for Media General News Service. This blog is quite entertaining, with “live” reports, videos, background information, and stories about the contestants.

Speaking about language and spelling, did you know that the English language derived the word “panic” from the Greek god Pan? Supposedly, Pan was the “god” of the mountainside and goats. In addition, he was irritable and cranky. Eventually, Pan became known as the “god of anxiety and fright”. I got this information from a Christian book I’m reading titled He Shall Be Called: 150 Names of Jesus and What They Mean To You, authored by Robert J. Morgan. Perhaps tomorrow I’ll write a book review on my Literati page. For now, though, I’ll close with two meaningful paragraphs on this subject:

“Our Lord took the disciples to a place of panic to teach them the wonders of His own person and work. He often teaches us our greatest lessons in places of fear and disease. He is greater than Pan, greater than anxiety, greater than superstition, and greater than any false gods.

We find our peace in Him and in His finished work on Calvary. We must choose every day whether we’re going to give in to panic or follow Christ, the Son of the Living God” (Morgan, Page 78).

Comments:

1. Martha Harrison Says:
   May 31st, 2007 at 7:21 am

   Good morning, Katy! I hope you’re feeling better and that everyone in your family feels almost back to normal. That stomach flu bug is no fun. The best part is that it usually leaves as fast as it comes! Katy, you and your Mom have blessed my day more than I can put into words. He really knew what He was doing when they adopted you and you decided to adopt them. I wouldn’t venture to guess how many lives you have touched just by the way you live your life for Him. You make my heart sing!! I have lots of housework to do today…which is not my favorite thing to do…but I feel I can tackle anything right now because you have given me that revitalizing shot of energy just by reading your blog. Thank you and God bless your day, too!!
   Love, Martha

2. Jess Says:
   May 31st, 2007 at 8:18 am

   Hey Katy Lady!
   Good morning! I hope the sun is shining for you in VA and that the pain has subsided a little. (We are in Knoxville for the week - then on to Holden Beach, NC for some much needed R&R.) Thank you so much for your post this about panic - as this new baby gets closer and closer - I do find myself having to choose God’s peace daily. Your post was a great reminder that even when we feel powerless and spinning out of control - He is right there and his grace is always available!

   We love you guys and we hope that everyone starts feeling better soon!
   Jess

3. Anne Poler Says:
   May 31st, 2007 at 10:26 am

   Hi, Katy.
   I haven’t commented in a while, so I have thoughts that date from a while back:

   –Glad the Remicade is seeming to help
   –Love the way your office looks. It’s giving me some inspiration!
   –Thanks for the info on the Spelling Bee. I’ve always enjoyed that, and the National Geographic Bee (that was completed on May 23), but I hadn’t been following either this year.
   –Still praying for you–esp. today since the past few days have been rough.
   –Hope everyone in the family is feeling better.
   Love, Anne

Closet Office

Comments:

1. Andrea Says:
   May 23rd, 2007 at 9:47 pm

   Katy,

   no one would ever know how sick you were looking at these pictures. You look just wonderful!

   I am so happy for you, and what a pretty office

   By the way….Dawn could update her musings too

   Love Andrea

2. Heather Kirkwood Says:
   May 24th, 2007 at 10:55 am

   Hey Katy! What a great looking office! I’m really hoping to redo my home office soon. It’s such a mess and yours looks so organized. I have two projects I have to finish before I can start on that though - BTW - got back from San Francisco late last night. I came home to 214 e-mails and 27 messages on my answering machine! And I haven’t even started on the work e-mail yet! Yikes! It might take a little while to dig out. But, the trip was very exciting. We had some great developments for HPS.

3. Tiffany Allen Says:
   May 24th, 2007 at 12:20 pm

   Katy,

   Your office looks great! It is so wonderfully organized. You look so healthy and happy in your pictures and I hope it continues for you. Praise God for the wonderful blessings He has bestowed upon you!!!!

   Love and Prayers,

   Tiffany

4. Sandy Says:
   May 24th, 2007 at 1:07 pm

   Wow! You’d never know that was all in a closet from the first picture! That’s really neat. Now, your Dad can come to my apartment and figure out where in the world to fit an office (which I need so much) in my space!

   You look great Katy. I’m glad things are going better for you! Take good care. Prayers continue from here.

A Personal Visit

Today is already another blessed day and it’s not even noon yet! I woke up feeling rested and refreshed. The Remicade is keeping my health stable. This is the first time I’ve been able to bounce back from a flare-up without having my body go into shock mode. I’m so grateful. I know it’s the prayers from faithful friends and God’s merciful hand.

Last week I told Mom, “Queen Elizabeth is coming to Virginia to commemorate Jamestown’s 400th anniversary. I wish I could go see her. After all, I’m a political science (and history) student!” I then went on to explain how the local news had a story about the etiquette of meeting the Queen. It is no longer necessary to bow or curtsy, but only to shake the Queen’s hand if she extends her hand first. I could tell the wheels in Mom’s brain were turning. After a moment she replied, “While it is neat that Queen Elizabeth is visiting, you’ve had the King of Kings meet you, give you individual directions, and you didn’t have to drive 4 hours to meet him or wait for an invitation.” Mom made a wonderful point that put everything in its proper perspective.

Comments:

1. andrea Says:
   May 10th, 2007 at 5:00 pm

   Katy,

   I am so glad to read that you a bit better
   And isnt your Mom right about the Queen and the King of Kings.
   He met You, he came to YOU, He showed YOU His Kingdom (well part of it), he did more than just extend His hand to YOU! He loves you soooo much.

   I too was a bit dissapointed when I saw that she came to VA but still to far away to go to see her, and than you drive all that way and still cant see her, you know. When I was living in Germany and brought up there, we are a bit fanatic about royalty not only with the House of Windsor also about the little country of Monaco and Prince Reinier and Grace Kelly and their Kids as well as the Queen and King of Sweden and their Kids. Especially since the Queen of Sweden is a German Lady from Heidelberg which is about 25 minutes away from Mannheim the city I am from.
   So, I have to say I am a bit fanatic about royalties.
   Oh my when Princess Diana died, I was on the TV for days on end watching CNN, there excisted no other channel or any other tv show for me. Just the Princess

   But now since I have found the King of Kings, I am not that whatchamacallit??? Infatuated???? With all those people!

   I just try to live as good as I can for Him, Him who loves us unconditionally, where we dont have to wait if HE extends His hand. We just go after Him and grab it.

   I love you Katy and your beautiful Family

   Love always
   Andrea

2. Aleah Yunger Says:
   May 10th, 2007 at 5:45 pm

   I thought for a moment you were going to say the Queen came and visited you!! Your mom is so wise… and her words are true. And let me tell you, as an outsider, hearing about a visit from our Lord is much more inspiring than the Queen could ever be! Glad to hear today started out well! ~Aleah

3. Jennifer S. :) Says:
   May 10th, 2007 at 9:19 pm

   Katy,
   Mom’s are really good at that kind of thing. I’m hoping that when/if I become a mom, I will have inherited that gene!! Along with the “eyes in the back of her head” gene.
   Glad your day was good!
   Love and prayers,
   Jen

4. Emily Williams Says:
   May 11th, 2007 at 11:02 am

   I also thought you were going to say that you meet the Queen!

   I am glad to hear that you are doing better, it is an answer to prayer.
   We need to get together and do some scrapbooking! I am getting so excited about starting! I can’t wait!!!

5. kendall Pelish Says:
   May 11th, 2007 at 2:35 pm

   Howdy, I’m glad to hear your able to eat subway, eventhough it is just vegetables. How can I be praying for you? Physical healing, a large measure of faith and spiritual strength? Hope to see you this summer.
   Kendall