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Oh My, I remember that post so well! It seems like that was so long ago, but only yesterday. Does that make sense? And now you have an almost-grownup woman already! Hope...and prayers...have brought you a l-o-n-g way! Thank God!!
Hugs and Blessings,
Judy
Judy Elliott
Naples, FL - Tuesday, February 1, 2011 8:34 PM CST
Becky, I have so enjoyed the walk through your past and present with pictures and stories. Thank you for sharing!
Terrie Davis
Kennesaw, Ga usa - Thursday, January 20, 2011 4:41 PM CST
I enjoyed seeing all the new pictures of beautiful Sarah. I think of you often and so happy and trilled that all is going so well with the family. I was Sarah's second grade teacher at Shepherd and enjoyed her every day. I retired this year.
Hassie Short <hassieshort@yahoo.com>
Statesville, NC USA - Tuesday, January 18, 2011 3:50 PM CST
Becky and Sarah, the black and white picture of Sarah on todays post is my all time favorite. Was it taken with the new camera? It is just a beautiful, pure shot of our princess groovy chick all grown up. Her eyes are priceless.
Have a great week.
Darla
Darla Hall <darla@swyce.com>
Brick, NJ USA - Thursday, January 13, 2011 8:44 PM CST
Hi Smith Family:
It is wonderful to see Sarah growing into the most wonderful of teenagers, (don't let her read this, she will have a very large head, haha...)Okay, back to this post...she is a thoughtful, caring, loving, wonderful teen. I know many prayers must have gone up to heaven for her eight years ago...and God smiled and said, she deserves to be with her family and He healed her body...with that transplant...and you are correct Becky, I personally know of two children in the same family that went through two transplants each and did not survive...so I celebrate each child who does survive...and flourishes as Sarah has...it enriches my life to know all of the Smith Family...loving you each in Jesus...Blessings,
fran harris
TX - Tuesday, January 11, 2011 11:00 PM CST
Praising God for answering prayers...8 years and many more to come. I thank Him for restoring you, healing you, and giving you life. May you continue to serve Him, who made you whole. Many blessings to you and your wonderful family.
Linda Cornelius/Angel_Wings <lwcornelius@yahoo.com>
- Tuesday, January 11, 2011 7:38 PM CST
Happy 8th, Sarah!!!!!!!!
I love the picture of the medical staff cheering you OUT of the hospital!
prayers and love from Mrs. Pam
- Tuesday, January 11, 2011 12:25 AM CST
Sarah, you are an amazing young woman with an incredible family! I was in tears reading again about your journey, and looking at the photos and thinking about how beautiful you are today. All my best wishes!
Liz Wicks
MN - Tuesday, January 11, 2011 11:15 AM CST
Congratulations, Sweet Friend!!! God is so good!!!
Dorine McNary
Williston, ND - Tuesday, January 11, 2011 0:58 AM CST
Hi Sarah! Congratulations on this special milestone in your life. Happy Day!!
Love, hugs and ladybugs,
Linda
L. Resinger
Farmington, MO - Monday, January 10, 2011 11:48 PM CST
Happy 8th Birthday, Sarah. Things have been so crazy around here that I almost missed it. We met you I think not long after the transplant. I know I started following your site shortly after the transplant. Wow! 8 years is fantastic!!!! So happy for you. God bless with many, many more!
Ann Martin <ann64@charter.net>
Roanoke Rapids, NC - Monday, January 10, 2011 10:53 PM CST
Happy 8th Birthday, Sarah! Thank you for sharing the pictures. They truly do show that a miracle has transpired.
btw...I saw on the transplant certificate that your middle initial is "E". What does that stand for? Just curious.
God Bless YOU!
Krista Labrensz <redhhhgh@hotmail.com>
Bismarck, ND - Monday, January 10, 2011 6:48 PM CST
Happy 8th Re-birthday, Sarah! I have been following your story since the beginning and am so proud of you! It has been amazing watching your journey into young adulthood! Big hugs to you and your family!
Linda
Pittsburgh, - Monday, January 10, 2011 2:24 PM CST
HAPPY 8TH BIRTHDAY SARAH!!! SO THANKFUL TO GOD FOR YOU! You are such an amazing inspiration of strength, courage, beauty and love! I cannot wait to see your beautiful face on the back of the jacket of your first published book someday!
Love & hugs!
Lizz K
TX - Monday, January 10, 2011 12:37 AM CST
You betcha, I am celebrating - can't think of a better thing to celebrate - You go girl - you are amazing - God is great - Snowy, you keep on celebrating also - miracles abound - I am just plain HAPPY for all of you today. Amazing story, amazing child, amazingly beautiful young lady. SMILING!
P.S. Praying also for the request in the guestbook for a little girl just beginning this transplant journey.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Monday, January 10, 2011 10:25 AM CST
Congratulations Sarah!! From one survivor (18 years!) to another!
Lyndsay findingjoyinthelittlethings.blogspot.com <lettersforlyndsay@hotmail.com>
- Monday, January 10, 2011 10:23 AM CST
Yippee-aye-yay for God and for Sarah! Praising Him with you.
Would everyone please pray for a little girl from Idaho named Katie? She is headed for Seattle for her own bone marrow transplant (leukemia). Thanks and God bless.
JennyT
Orofino, ID Clearwater - Monday, January 10, 2011 9:19 AM CST
Yeah Sarah! I am grateful for those 8 years and for you!
Happy celebration day to you and your family.
In loving light,
Eva
Eva Van den Broeck <eva.michaele@skynet.be>
Brussels, Belgium - Monday, January 10, 2011 8:41 AM CST
YAY Sarah!!! I am sporting my pom-poms are cheering from the sidelines!!!! You go girl!!!
Anne Case <annecase1@gmail.com>
Kingston, ON Canada - Monday, January 10, 2011 7:34 AM CST
Happy 8th Sarah! Enjoy celebrating with your wonderful family!
Jill
FL - Monday, January 10, 2011 7:29 AM CST
Happy 8th birthday Sarah! You are such an inspiration to so many of us. Have a wonderful day!
Kathy Baldini
Jacksonville, FL USA - Monday, January 10, 2011 6:00 AM CST
Happy 8th! I am so thankful! I am thankful for you, Sarah, and for your family. I am rejoicing along with you guys. The pictures make me smile. I love the Sarah/Nathan pictures so much. The love between the two of you is so obvious and special. Much much love!!!
kim <W8k@aol.com>
Kingston, tn - Monday, January 10, 2011 3:35 AM CST
HAPPY EIGHTH BIRTHDAY dearest Sarah on your bone marrow transplant! What a WONDERFUL DAY to celebrate! Whoo Hoo!!!You are a true miracle. Thank you for being part of my life, and for sharing your life with us. Love you SO much sweetie!!! HUGS ENJOY!!! :)
Bea <Bumblebee1955@hotmail.com>
Pa - Sunday, January 9, 2011 9:23 PM CST
Happy Transplant Day Sarah!!!! You are amazing!
Alyssa <sabiemc@aol.com>
Boston, MA 02451 - Sunday, January 9, 2011 5:42 PM CST
Sarah and Snowy have much to celebrate in this early January of 2011. I have said it before, but I insist on saying it again -- I am continually amazed at the bravery and faith of Sarah and her family through all her treatment years - especially transplant - my daughter lost her dear friend from transplant complications - we know how difficult success can be - Jessica has been with God and his horses for 4 years now - Go Jess - Keep going strong and healthy and happy, Lady Sarah and Prince Snowy. You do my heart so much good.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Tuesday, January 4, 2011 12:24 AM CST
So thankful.
Thank you so much for sharing your lives with us.
Kim <W8k@aol.com>
Kingston, TN - Monday, January 3, 2011 7:06 PM CST
That post brought tears to my eyes. I am so so happy that Sarah is happy, healthy and doing well. Seeing those pictures of her walking down that hall into 5200, I can't help but think of my godson Tommy walking down there for his 3rd transplant...and how badly I wish he was able to walk out.
Seeing Sarah alive and well reminds me that miracles still do exist. =)
alyssa <sabiemc@aol.com>
Boston, MA United States - Sunday, January 2, 2011 8:19 PM CST
Happy New Year, and many blessings for a happy and healthy new year. Thinking of you all and so glad you are all together.
Linda Cornelius
- Saturday, January 1, 2011 5:11 PM CST
Merry Christmas, Sarah
xxoo Mrs. Pam
- Saturday, December 25, 2010 9:45 AM CST
Thinking of you all. All the best for the holidays and 2011. Sarah you are truly a beauty.
Robin Brunet <robinb@start.ca>
Bradford, Ontario Canada - Thursday, December 23, 2010 12:08 AM CST
Thinking of you all, praying that Snowy continues to improve, and that you all enjoy the upcoming days, as we all have so much to be thankful for. God is good. Many blessings,
Linda Cornelius <lwcornelius@yahoo.com>
- Wednesday, December 22, 2010 6:56 AM CST
An Invitation To All Prayer Warriors
The Prayer Warriors at Angel_Wings will be
holding a Prayer Vigil on Sunday, December 19th.
between 8-9 pm EST for all the families on our
Angel_Wings Prayer Lists and our Angel families of
children,teens and adults who have gained their wings.
We Are Fighting For Our Children
One Prayer At A Time..
Happy Holidays from Angel_Wings!
Angel_Wings Prayer Warriors
AngelWingsRemembers
Debbie/Angel_Wings
- Saturday, December 18, 2010 8:20 AM CST
Love the new picture!!!!
Keely <knoche197@yahoo.com>
Colorado Springs, CO USA - Friday, December 10, 2010 4:51 PM CST
Love the new graphic - Wyatt has competition. Yes, extra hugs and bunches of more patience and appreciation for all my family that will still be with me on Christmas - we are blessed. Praying for Snowy!
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Monday, December 6, 2010 4:38 PM CST
Hey Becky, I was just catching up on your latest Sarah entry, and (I could be wrong about this) but isn't she coming up on her 8th transplant anniversary? I thought she was transplanted in Jan/03. Glad everything is going well and you guys had a great Thanksgiving! I love reading your Smithellaneous blog everyday!
Jen Parnham <sheep_50@hotmail.com>
London, Ont. Canada - Thursday, December 2, 2010 3:24 PM CST
Sarah, I am so proud of your report card. You do your mom and dad proud, but more importantly, you take pride in doing the best you can, and being the best you can be. Thinking of you, remembering you in prayer,
Linda
- Tuesday, November 30, 2010 12:16 AM CST
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!
Prayers and love from Mrs. Pam
- Thursday, November 25, 2010 9:42 AM CST
BRAVO, Sarah on an outstanding report card. You should be very proud of yourself. And, the fact that you enjoy school, is such a big PLUS! Glad you are having fun and showing them all what a brilliant young woman you are. Have fun with that College Dude brother of yours - keep him guessing and keep him laughing.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Friday, November 19, 2010 4:14 PM CST
Hope you are feeling better, Sarah. You need your strength for all the Nathan fun that will be coming soon.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Thursday, November 11, 2010 12:22 AM CST
WOW Sarah - GREAT JOB - very creative, impressive and so so serious...until your dramatic conclusion! Awesome!
randy <ranweiss@comcast.net>
- Sunday, October 31, 2010 8:46 AM CDT
Amazing job on the video, Sarah! You look gorgeous on it too. Very impressive!
Liz Wicks
MN - Saturday, October 30, 2010 3:43 PM CDT
FANTASTIC SARAH!!! WOW! YOU are one very smart cookie, Kiddo! That was a WONDERFUL video!! I never heard of the group or the song, but I REALLY liked it! GOOD JOB!! Now... how about another one??!!! ;-) Love you Sweetie...been praying for you for years and shall continue to do so.
Hugs & Blessings,
Judy
Judy Elliott
Naples, FL - Friday, October 29, 2010 10:03 PM CDT
Great job on the video, Sarah! You are just so wonderful! :-)
Love, Aunt Deb
dmantik <rmantik@frontier.com>
- Thursday, October 28, 2010 10:47 PM CDT
Wow! What a GREAT video. That's the first time I've heard that song, or even heard of the band - but it's a great one!
Stefanie
St. Louis, - Thursday, October 28, 2010 8:39 AM CDT
Sarah that was great! Yay for you. Very clever!
Lesley
Cape Cod, MA - Thursday, October 28, 2010 0:06 AM CDT
WOW! Screaming and clapping and standing ovation - I got chills - love, love it all but especially the last photo. You are great and beautiful.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Wednesday, October 27, 2010 12:51 AM CDT
Great job, Sarah. It kept my attention. Made me laugh when the last photo came up.
Steve Smith <sksmith57@embarqmail.com>
Manteo, NC USA - Wednesday, October 27, 2010 10:26 AM CDT
I think it has been about 5 years for me!
Kyna Petersen <daleandkyna@comcast.net>
Murfreesboro, TN USA - Tuesday, October 26, 2010 9:16 AM CDT
What great photos - I know I have said it a thousand times, but I still can't believe that frail little child is the beautiful strong woman we see now - there was a great strength in that little body all those years ago and thank God there was.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Lousi, MO - Tuesday, October 19, 2010 4:50 PM CDT
What a lovely young lady you are!! God Bless and thoughts and prayers for Sarah and her family.!!!
Linda Kemper <dlkemper@psci.net>
holland, in - Monday, October 18, 2010 2:11 PM CDT
An Invitation To All Prayer Warriors
The Prayer Warriors at Angel_Wings will be
holding a Prayer Vigil on Tuesday, October 19th.
between 8-9 pm EST for all the families on our
Angel_Wings Prayer Lists and our Angel families of
children,teens and adults who have gained their wings.
We Are Fighting For Our Children One Prayer
At A Time..
If You Have A Specific Prayer Request Or Someone Who Is In Need Of
Prayer Please Feel Free To Email Us At The Email Address Below.
MJ/Angel_Wings/AngelWingsRemembers
Angel_Wings Prayer Warriors
AngelWingsRemembers
MJ/Angel_Wings <marijeighn2010@gmail.com>
- Monday, October 18, 2010 9:15 AM CDT
Hello! I would have signed in earlier, but our network is giving me trouble accessing some websites.
I don't know how long I've been reading Sarah's site in years, but you know when it was all bright yellow? That's when I started. Maybe you know how many years that is.
Congratulations also on the funding for neuroblastoma treatment development! I'm working on a proposal for less toxic treatment (actually, for better targeting of treatment so that it damages NB cells but doesn't hurt normal ones) for a genetics working group right now - I can't wait until I can call this sort of thing my everyday job... until then, I hope the people who get the funding do all that they can with it.
Random
- Sunday, October 17, 2010 2:37 PM CDT
I've been reading for 6.5 years now; hard to believe it's been that long!
Jen Parnham <sheep_50@hotmail.com>
London, Ont. Canada - Saturday, October 16, 2010 9:55 PM CDT
I'm not really sure how long I've been here.. I think about 5 yrs. She is such a nmiracle! I love hearing about her day to day activities and milestones. Your whole family is an ispiration to many. I love reading "Smithallaneous" too!
Michele
Syracuse, - Friday, October 15, 2010 10:31 AM CDT
Hi, I've been reading Sarah's site since the transplant and went back and read all the old entries one Saturday. I cried for hours. Should have known better than reading all at once. It has been a joy to watch Sarah grow up into a lovely young teen lady. God is good and we are so blessed to know the Smith family.
Ann Martin
Roanoke Rapids, NC - Thursday, October 14, 2010 11:10 PM CDT
Happy Belated Birthday to Sarah! We have been following her journey since we were neighbors up on the floor at Duke, January 2003. That would be 7 years & 9 months.
God Bless.
Laura, Ken, Nathan, Isabel & ^^Angel Jillian^^
Naples, FL - Tuesday, October 12, 2010 10:21 AM CDT
I started reading Sarah's Caringbridge postings right after it was created. I am a member of Whitley PH Church in Goldsboro, NC, and remembered your family singing and ministering to us before Sarah became ill. When she first got sick, Pastor Ferrell told the congregation about it. We prayed and followed you along your journey through this web site. It has truly been a blessing through the years, and we have been so thrilled to watch her progress and grow into such a beautiful young "princess." God bless you all!
LaRose S. Brock <rose@waynecc.edu>
Pikeville, NC United States - Tuesday, October 12, 2010 9:20 AM CDT
I think its been 7 years since I started reading!
vikki <viks@postpals.co.uk>
- Tuesday, October 12, 2010 8:36 AM CDT
Something to share with each of you today. ¢¾
Love....Ms. Polly @ Angel_Wings Prayer Warriors
I Shall Be Glad
by Grace Noll Crowell (c)
If I can put new hope within the heart
Of one who has lost hope,
If I can help a brother up
Some difficult long slope
That seems too steep for tired feet to go,
If I can help him climb
Into the light upon the hill's far crest,
I shall begrudge no time
Or strength that I spend, for well I know
How great may be his need.
If I can help through any darkened hour,
I shall be glad indeed.
For I recall how often I have been
Distressed, distraught, dismayed,
And hands have reached to help, and voices called
That kept me unafraid.
If I can share this help that I have had,
God knows I shall be glad.
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God.-- II Corinthians 1:3-4 (NIV)
Ms Polly @ http://groups.yahoo.com/group/angel_wings
- Monday, October 11, 2010 2:13 PM CDT
I always love to see the photographs. Very homey, makes me feel like I know your family. I would guess I found the site about 4 years ago. Time flies!
Pam Tuey <PTuey24680@aol.com>
Redlands, CA USA - Monday, October 11, 2010 8:00 AM CDT
What beautiful pics of Sarah. She is so pretty and a joy to all those around her. I am enjoy stopping by. Many prayers to you all.
Linda Cornelius <lwcornelius@yahoo.com>
- Sunday, October 10, 2010 6:36 PM CDT
Have been reading Sarah's spot since the beginning. Been a Smith fan since the first time I saw the group singing. That was with the two guys and two girls. Becky's sister and brother-in-law, I think. I especially remember a entry Steve wrote about being in church shortly after Sarah was diagnosed. It was so moving and real. Would love to read it again.
Marjorie Stump <las771@verizon.net>
Arlington, VA USA - Saturday, October 9, 2010 10:44 PM CDT
Hi Becky,
Been reading Sarah's spot since just before her relapse.
Been reading Smithallaneous since it's inception.
You and your family are the greatest. Thanks for sharing yourselves with us.
Darla in NJ
Darla <darla@swyce.com>
Bricktown, NJ USA - Friday, October 8, 2010 9:38 PM CDT
I have been reading from the beginning, when I did Sarah's pheresis, and met your family! I try to keep up with as many as I can this way... and what a beautiful young woman she is turning into now!! Makes my heart smile every time I see pictures of kids who are now well, and living life to the fullest! I must say, I LOVE my job, when the results turn out like Sarah!!
Tiffany Hawkins <hawki053@triad.rr.com>
Burlington, NC - Friday, October 8, 2010 12:38 AM CDT
Same as Cheryl.
I don't know how I found your site but I have been here since July 2006. Thanks for still being a part of my life.
Trine <trineb90@gmail.com>
- Friday, October 8, 2010 10:23 AM CDT
I've been reading since 2006. I got hooked on Sarah's story and went back and read all the way through the archives. Took me awhile!
Cheryl
Warner Robins, GA USA - Friday, October 8, 2010 7:25 AM CDT
Awwww! Thanks, Becky! This is my favorite picture, by far. I am glad you added it to the bunch.
Jodi
- Thursday, October 7, 2010 2:38 PM CDT
Hmmmm... I can remember exactly how I found Sarah Smith's Spot, and what was happening at the time. But I don't remember when. If I had to guess, I would say maybe around three years ago?
Kristina <kristinacreek@yahoo.com>
Fairbanks, AK - Thursday, October 7, 2010 1:21 PM CDT
My 'fav' picture is missing (tears) the ones when she opend her birthay cards the year when all sent them to her.
Hmmmm. I think I have been around since Sarah was about eight or so.......a fairly close guesstimate, I beleive.
Jodi
Too close to Chicago, IL - Thursday, October 7, 2010 0:28 AM CDT
We've been here following and praying for you for 4 - 5 years.
Beth Kayser <randybethmo@yahoo.com>
Bakersfield, CA - Wednesday, October 6, 2010 6:42 PM CDT
About 4 years
Kathy
Jacksonville, FL - Wednesday, October 6, 2010 6:21 PM CDT
I have been following since Sarah was about 8 years old.
Love
Nancy
http://www.xanga.com/Nancybratt
Nancy <nancybratt1972@hotmail.com>
- Wednesday, October 6, 2010 5:12 PM CDT
I started reading your updates as a link from Taylor Watts. It has to have been close to the beginning.
Karen
Birmingham, AL - Wednesday, October 6, 2010 4:52 PM CDT
Since the beginning in 2002. Check every day and give thanks for her good health now.
Kathy <lawmom@bellsouth.net>
Fort Pierce, Florida - Wednesday, October 6, 2010 2:41 PM CDT
can't remember exactly when - but way back in the archives sometime!!
Cindy J
MN - Wednesday, October 6, 2010 12:23 AM CDT
I think I started reading around Sarah's relapse. Been here ever since and went back and read the old journal entries as well. Glad Sarah's enjoying high school!
Amanda Jennings <amanda@southpawcentral.com>
avondale, az usa - Wednesday, October 6, 2010 10:14 AM CDT
Good Morning! I have been reading since Sarah's relapse....the first entry I read was about you telling Sarah and Nathan. I'm not sure how I came across your site, but I am so glad I did.
Traci
- Wednesday, October 6, 2010 8:25 AM CDT
I've been reading since before Sarah's relapse in 2006. Not sure exactly when I started reading, but I feel like I've seen your kids grow up! I have a son Nathan's age, so it is fun to see what he is up to as well. So glad that the Pepsi idea we've been voting for won some money!
Gayle
Enterprise, AL - Wednesday, October 6, 2010 7:55 AM CDT
The pictures are simply beautiful!!! God Bless and we pray for all the kids with nb. We voted and everybody did it and the kids WIN!!! God Blesssssss
Linda Kemper <dlkemper@psci.net>
HollandIn, - Wednesday, October 6, 2010 6:46 AM CDT
Probably about 2 years now.....
I like the Narnia ones best :)
Becky <mysticalnight@hotmail.com>
UK - Wednesday, October 6, 2010 5:43 AM CDT
I started reading Sarah's blog shortly before she relapsed. Didn't take long to fall in love with the Smith family!!
Rhonda Chesney <getnonnie@yahoo.com>
Kinderhook, IL USA - Wednesday, October 6, 2010 1:39 AM CDT
I've been a reader since the summer of 2006 when Sarah relapsed. I had heard about her through someone else's CaringBridge site.
Kristi B <simplykristi@simplykristi.com>
Blue Springs, MO USA - Wednesday, October 6, 2010 0:18 AM CDT
HI Smith family, I've been following Sarah's site since January 2006.
Rebecca Hatheway
Indianapolis, IN - Tuesday, October 5, 2010 11:25 PM CDT
I'm not sure, but I think about 7 or 8 years. And I've been checking her site almost every night since then! I'm SO glad she's doing so well!!I keep your entire family in my prayers...always!
Love & Blessings,
Judy
Judy Elliott
Naples, FL - Tuesday, October 5, 2010 7:09 PM CDT
I've been coming to Sarah Smith's Spot since the header where it looks like she is laying on the book!! Don't have any idea how long that is, but that is the first one that I remember seeing!! Have a great day and thanks for sharing!!!!
Diane Carson <loksgramma@aol.com>
Bellevue, IA - Tuesday, October 5, 2010 5:51 PM CDT
I have been reading since way before her relapse. I can remember sitting at my computer and crying. Thank you for sharing your lives with us.
Meredith <meredithvj@gmail.com>
St. Louis Park, MN - Tuesday, October 5, 2010 5:20 PM CDT
I've been reading since her relapse, so....what, 4-5 years? Something like that. :-)
Dina
NC - Tuesday, October 5, 2010 4:02 PM CDT
I think about five years. but have know the family way longer. Iam not going to say how long because it will age me. LOL anyways glad she is doing so well. Take care Catherine.
Catherine <coolbeans4@att.net>
USA - Tuesday, October 5, 2010 3:20 PM CDT
I am not sure how many years it has been since I got to "know" Sarah and her family - I know the event, however. It was when Sarah relapsed - we were all asked to send her cards - I am not sure which site lead me to this one, but thank God it did. I am so happy Sarah is thriving and loving high school. Somehow I am not surprised at the "A's" in Honors English and Honors History. That is all about words and ready and enjoying both - she has that mastered. Keep having fun, Sarah. You so deserve it! Enjoy these high school days, Becky and Steve. As you know, they are fleeting times - I wish I could have bottled my girls' high school days and replenish my aching heart when I miss having them both at home.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Lousi, MO - Tuesday, October 5, 2010 2:52 PM CDT
How long have I been reading about Sarah? Coming to this page? I honestly have NO idea...
Years.
OK - so I searched back through the guestbook and found what I think is my first entry - July 31, 2006. In that post, I said I had just been linked here from Julianna Banana's site. I had NO idea where/how I found yall, but I'm so glad I did. :)
Stefanie <stefmo@gmail.com>
St. Louis, - Tuesday, October 5, 2010 2:06 PM CDT
I just recently found your CaringBridge site, as I was looking for kids who were diagnosed with Neuroblastoma at an older age. You are such an inspiration. I have a friend who's son was recently diagnosed with stage IV Neuroblastoma as well. He is 9 and his name is Ethan. He's so strong, but this disease is just horrible. So many people are praying for his recovery. Thank you for posting your information online. I will check back often for updates. I pray for your continued progress.
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/ethanhallmark
God bless
Christy
Dallas, TX USA - Saturday, October 2, 2010 10:54 PM CDT
HOORAY!!! I am glad the voting was successful. Two very good causes are getting some desperately needed funding. Thanks for letting us help, Becky.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, Mo - Saturday, October 2, 2010 11:05 AM CDT
Congratulations on the win! Rett Syndrome won also! Woohoo!!!
Lesley
Cape Cod, MA - Friday, October 1, 2010 1:44 PM CDT
Drum Roll - it's official - Arms Wide Open will be presenting a $250,000 check for less toxic treatments to MSK...HUGE VICTORY and proof positive of TEAM EFFORT! Thanks again for your support...
randy <ranweiss@comcast.net>
- Friday, October 1, 2010 9:38 AM CDT
Thanks Sarah for all your popularity - I am SURE your influence helped bring in lots of votes...Since we are in the perfect #2 spot as I type - wish I could just click my heels together and turn the calendar one day and start celebrating....Patience right??? Good things worth waiting for etc...Thanks again for jumping right in to help the count stay strong for Arms Wide Open and all the kids!
randy <ranweiss@comcast.net>
- Thursday, September 30, 2010 1:21 PM CDT
I see it is in 3rd, but I am still voting!!
Jill
FL - Tuesday, September 28, 2010 7:39 AM CDT
Sarah
I LOVE reading your essays!!!!
I've been voting evert day, and just today discovered that CFbabies/breathe easier (or something like that) was also in the running. two such worthwhile causes!!!
prayers and love from Mrs. Pam
- Sunday, September 26, 2010 12:39 AM CDT
Way to go, Sarah! I was very impressed with your use of words that aren't commonly used. There were a few there that I'll have to go look up!
I loved your thank you note--it is a keeper! Thank for taking the time to write--that meant a lot to me. Love you--as always!
AunT DeB
dmantik <rmantik@frontier.com>
- Thursday, September 23, 2010 8:15 AM CDT
Sarah, you, your mom and your Aunt need to publish a book! What a treasury or words that would be - please write again. Also, I am voting as often as I can - at least every day. Hope we move to No. 1.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Lousi, Mo - Wednesday, September 22, 2010 3:48 PM CDT
Thank you, Sarah and family, for sharing your strength and hope and joy (and for the morning routine instructions)!
I will vote as often as I can from now to the end of the month.
Gail Burlakoff (aka Abuela) <gail9436@gmail.com>
- Tuesday, September 21, 2010 7:58 AM CDT
Sweet Sarah I voted and will vote again and again.
AN INVITATION TO ALL PRAYER WARRIORS
The Prayer Warriors at Angel_Wings Are
Holding Our Monthly Prayer Vigil On
Sunday September 19th. Between 8-9 pm EST
For All The Families On Our Angel_Wings
And Angel Wings Remembers Prayer Lists.
Please Join Us In Prayer For These Families.
We Are Fighting For Our Children One Prayer
At A Time..
If You Have A Specific Prayer Request Or Someone Who Is In Need Of
Prayer Please Feel Free To Email Us At The Email Address Below.
Angel_Wings Prayer Warriors
Trish/Angel_Wings/AngelWingsRemembers <byangeltrish@aol.com>
Pall Mall, TN. USA - Saturday, September 18, 2010 6:28 PM CDT
Hi Sarah, I got your name from another site. My grandson, www.caringbridge.org/visit/briceking, was diagnosed 7-07 with Neuroblastoma, He is NED. He goes to MSKCC in NY. Thoughts and prayers for you and your family. I'm, hopeing I know how to get your updates, I'll try to figure it out!!!
Linda Kemper <dlkemper@psci.net. >
Holland, In - Thursday, September 16, 2010 4:28 PM CDT
Hi - hope you are enjoying watching Arms Wide Open reach another milestone....We are almost getting there - keep sharing - keep voting and sending out those shout outs for email and text votes....September 30th is not too far away - but enough time to #2 or 1st place a WIN for all the kids in treatment....
randy <ranweiss@comcast.net>
- Wednesday, September 15, 2010 7:39 PM CDT
Voted and will continue to do so!
Amanda Jennings <amanda@southpawcentral.com>
avondale, az 85323 - Monday, September 13, 2010 11:03 PM CDT
Thanks Sarah and Becky for sharing all your fans with the Arms Wide Open vote seeking campaign. Remember you can vote eith every email you have AND text a vote in too!
I just know that Sarah/Snowy & Smith Family fans will continue to make a difference:=) High school is a pretty populated cell phone crowd after all!!!
randy <ranweiss@comcast.net>
- Monday, September 13, 2010 7:06 PM CDT
You got it - I will be voting - I know about the effects of treatment - my daughter's very good friend beat her first cancer but died from Luekemia caused by the treatment for her rare first cancer - Jessica is our angel on horseback - she was 18. There has to be a better way to treat our children to help them beat the beast.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Monday, September 13, 2010 4:27 PM CDT
Hi Sarah, so glad you hearing you are enjoying high school I am thinking of you and remembering you in prayer.
Linda Cornelius <lwcornelius@yahoo.com>
- Sunday, September 12, 2010 3:36 PM CDT
Hi Sarah, I'm about to get ready for church and I was trying to get on caringbridge to check on a friend of mine and I ended up on your site, I'm not going to say by accident, because as we know everything happens for a reason. I don't have time to read everthing this morning, but I will be back!! You sound like an amazing young lady. My youngest granddaughter was born with hypoplastic left heart symdrome, but God is sooo good. she has had two open heart surgeries and the "doctor's say" she needs another one. she is doing great and we give God all the praise and glory!!!! None of us know what the future holds, but we know who holds our hand . She has a site on carepages.com and her name is EmersonBanks May. God bless you and your family and may God continue to richly bless your life. Connie Toole (Emerson's Nana)
connie toole <nanatoole3@hotmail.com>
N. Augusta, S.C. U.S. - Sunday, September 12, 2010 7:28 AM CDT
Hey, what a treat to come here and find something from Sarah. I love your humor in your writing. Please continue and please share more. Hope high school continues to be fun (and educational).
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Friday, September 10, 2010 12:23 AM CDT
YAY! It's great that you're LOVING high school! I loved all the clubs and opportunities and classes too (have you thought about doing newspaper?)
Hope it continues to go great!
Joyce <jdadekia@skidmore.edu>
- Tuesday, September 7, 2010 6:20 PM CDT
Sarah, I am so glad you are enjoying high school. I am also very glad that Snowy is doing fine now. Take every opportunity in high school to get involved in all the extra-curricular activities that interest you - it will make these years even greater.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Tuesday, September 7, 2010 1:23 PM CDT
I had been reading your other site regularly, but hadn't been here in a few weeks, so when I read your entry on the day Sarah started high school, I teared up! I have a freshman too and did basically the same thing on her first day of school a couple of weeks ago. It is so strange to think about how fast they grow up. Sarah is such a beautiful girl inside and out. I wish our daughters new each other because I think they would be great friends. You are so wonderful with your writing and both of you are inspirations. Thank you!
Kyna Petersen <daleandkyna@comcast.net>
Murfreesboro, TN, - Tuesday, August 31, 2010 9:20 AM CDT
I liked high school much better than 7th and 8th grade too. And each year in high school got better and better. But, I never could bring myself to like gym. You should have seen the 'jumpsuits' we had to wear for gym: real thin clingy light blue short! short! shorts that were attatched to a sort of balloon top of the same material that was horizontally striped! It was so degrating!
Why am I telling you this? I have no idea, lol.
I hope you have a great year!
Lesley
Cape cod, MA - Sunday, August 29, 2010 0:36 AM CDT
Happy BELATED Birthday Sarah (Sorry I'm behind on my internetting). It looks like you had a good one. Best of luck in High School! Such a great time in life. Enjoy. =)
Kris Herbst <kris@ercolina-usa.com>
Bettendorf, IA - Saturday, August 28, 2010 4:20 PM CDT
High school is the BEST! When I went, when my two girls went, it is just the best time in your life - enjoy, enjoy, enjoy! So happy there are all smiles and not tears - I was just wondering about that fact - have a great weekend.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Friday, August 27, 2010 3:57 PM CDT
Happy Belated 15th Birthday!!!! Hope you had a great first day of HIGH SCHOOL!! Enjoy every moment, because before you know it you'll be walking across the stage at graduation.
Dana Sanford <Aunty.dana@gmail.com>
Spring Arbor, Mi - Wednesday, August 25, 2010 3:06 PM CDT
Looking all ready for high school, I must say - hope it was a good day! Growing up isn't easy for us mamas. But what fun to follow them along on the journey even if it tugs at our heartstrings.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Wednesday, August 25, 2010 12:14 AM CDT
Hey Sarah! Sorry I forgot to do this two days ago but HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!! I hope you had a great day and that you have a great first day of high school today!
Keely <knoche197@yahoo.com>
Colorado Springs, CO USA - Wednesday, August 25, 2010 11:55 AM CDT
Very belated birthday wishes, hope you had a great day! x
Becky <mysticalnight@hotmail.com>
UK - Wednesday, August 25, 2010 11:16 AM CDT
Sarah I hope you have a great day at school. You look really like, I like what your are wearing. I hope you had a nice birthday.
Trine <trineb90@gmail.com>
- Wednesday, August 25, 2010 8:32 AM CDT
Happy birthday (late) Sarah!
Jan Reuther <Jan@raub-and-more.com>
Vancouver, WA - Wednesday, August 25, 2010 8:11 AM CDT
Belated Birthday wishes. Hope you have a great year.
Maria
Ireland - Wednesday, August 25, 2010 3:18 AM CDT
Hope your birthday was wonderful!
Hope
Raleigh, NC - Tuesday, August 24, 2010 10:35 PM CDT
Happy Belated 15th Birthday!!! Hope you have a great one!!
Michelle Zammat <whisperpur@yahoo.com>
Belcamp, MD USA - Tuesday, August 24, 2010 10:08 PM CDT
HAPPY (belated) BIRTHDAY, SARAH!!!
Mindy Barker
Lithia, FL USA - Tuesday, August 24, 2010 9:33 PM CDT
Sorry I'm a day late...but best wishes! I hope you had a great 15th birthday, and I wish you every happiness in the year ahead.
Denise Ward <deniward@shaw.ca>
Winnipeg, Canada - Tuesday, August 24, 2010 8:35 PM CDT
Happy belated birthday Sarah...hope you had a great day....I hope you have a terrific year....all the best.
Robin Brunet <robinb@start.ca>
Bradford, Ontario Canada - Tuesday, August 24, 2010 7:25 PM CDT
Happy Belated Birthday, Sarah!!
Amanda J <amanda@southpawcentral.com>
Avondale, AZ USA - Tuesday, August 24, 2010 4:31 PM CDT
Wishing you a belated, yet very happy 15th birthday Sarah!! You are amazing!
LeeAnne
Hastings, NE - Tuesday, August 24, 2010 2:29 PM CDT
Happy birthday a day late Sarah! I hope you had a fabulous day! Take care of your mom for us! :)
Buff <bclark@ihsaa.org>
Carmel, IN USA - Tuesday, August 24, 2010 2:02 PM CDT
Happy Birthday Sarah!! I hope you have a fabulous day yesterday.
Lyndsay
Canada - Tuesday, August 24, 2010 12:45 AM CDT
Happy Happy Happy Birthday!!!!!
Kim Armstrong
Detroit, mi usa - Tuesday, August 24, 2010 12:34 AM CDT
I hope you had a wonderful 15th birthday Sarah!
Lesley
Cape Cod, MA - Tuesday, August 24, 2010 12:21 AM CDT
sorry I missed the birthday day, but happy late birthday.
Sharon Holweger <sholweger5@yahoo.com>
- Tuesday, August 24, 2010 12:20 AM CDT
Happy Birthday Sarah.
margie miller <margiemm54@aol.com>
- Tuesday, August 24, 2010 12:16 AM CDT
Happy Happy Birthday!!!
GOOD LUCK AND HAVE FUN IN H.S.!
EB
- Tuesday, August 24, 2010 11:58 AM CDT
Wow! 15! Congratulations & Happy Birthday, Sarah!
Guerrina
Ledyard, CT - Tuesday, August 24, 2010 11:37 AM CDT
Hi sarah
just realized that today is the 24th which meant that your birthday was yesterday. hope it was a happy one!
prayers and love from Mrs. Pam
- Tuesday, August 24, 2010 11:37 AM CDT
It is so hard for me to believe that the little girl I started following on caringbridge all those years ago is 15. WOW! Sorry I am a day late, but know the birthday wishes are very heartfelt. May God continue to bless you with MANY MANY more wonderful birthdays. Sending hugs and prayers.
Martha White <ratchet78@yahoo.com>
Shallotte, NC - Tuesday, August 24, 2010 11:34 AM CDT
SARAH!!!! Happy Birthday - a day late! I am so sorry I was not on time with this wish but it is a heartfelt birthday wish, nonetheless! Have fun being 15 and in high school. Great things await you - even greater than what you have already done! Hope you had a great day!
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Tuesday, August 24, 2010 9:08 AM CDT
Happy, happy birthday. Wonderful reading about the Disney memories. We got to be friends a few days after the transplant in 2003. What a journey it has been. Thanks for sharing your life with us. God bless with a wonderful 15th year, Sarah.
Ann Martin
Roanoke Rapids, NC - Monday, August 23, 2010 10:14 PM CDT
Happy 15th birthday Sarah!!! I hope you had a wonderful day.
Bethany
Marine City, MI - Monday, August 23, 2010 9:39 PM CDT
Happy Birthday Sarah! W remember you crawling on the pew of our church in Pennsylvania when you were really little...and now you are blooming with beauty and care. It's wonderful to read you story as God gives His grace and joy. Thanks for writing about your mom too. Blessings
Dave and Betty Lingle
Merceer, Pa USA - Monday, August 23, 2010 9:28 PM CDT
Happy birthday Sarah!! Hope you had a GREAT day!!
:)
Renee <renfb@animail.net>
Canada - Monday, August 23, 2010 7:56 PM CDT
A Big Birthday Blessing to you!!!Hope your day was GREAT!!!
May you have many more to come. Love the Clifton's
Catherine
NC USA - Monday, August 23, 2010 7:41 PM CDT
Birthday Blessings Sarah!
Love, hugs and ladybugs,
Linda
Linda Resinger
Farmington, MO - Monday, August 23, 2010 6:17 PM CDT
Happy Happy Birthday Sarah!
Love ,
Kim from Kingston TN
Kim <W8k@aol.com>
Kingston, TN - Monday, August 23, 2010 3:20 PM CDT
Happy Birthday, Sarah! What a beautiful young lady you are (both inside and out). How are you going to celebrate your birthday?
Linda in Pittsburgh
- Monday, August 23, 2010 2:34 PM CDT
A very Happy and Blessed birthday Sarah. You're 6 days older than me - well, actually your birthday is 6 days before mine - I'm a tad older - let's make that much older. Have a wonderful day. You are loved.
Sharyn McDonald <sharynmcd@msn.com>
- Monday, August 23, 2010 1:57 PM CDT
Happy Birthday to a beloved niece(and cousin)and one of our favorite people! :-)
Uncle Randy, Aunt Deb & Caleb
mantiks <rmantik@frontier.com>
- Monday, August 23, 2010 1:34 PM CDT
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!
Traci
Mt. Pleasant, PA - Monday, August 23, 2010 12:04 AM CDT
Happy Birthday Sarah! Enjoy!
Jill
FL - Monday, August 23, 2010 10:10 AM CDT
Have a happy, happy, happy birthday, Sarah!!
Gayle in AL
Gayle <ghotl@roadrunner.com>
Enterprise, AL USA - Monday, August 23, 2010 8:25 AM CDT
Happiest of days to you, Sarah!
Stefanie
St. Louis, - Monday, August 23, 2010 8:22 AM CDT
Happy happy birthday wonderful Sarah! I hope you will have a great day
Trine
- Sunday, August 22, 2010 11:42 PM CDT
Happy Birthday Sarah...you are a true miracle!
alyssa <sabiemc@aol.com>
Boston, MA United States - Sunday, August 22, 2010 5:49 PM CDT
What a wonderful story. God is so good, so able, and knows just exactly how to remind us that HE is able to provide before we even know what we need. Thinking of you all, and sending many prayers your way.
Linda Cornelius
- Wednesday, August 18, 2010 5:11 PM CDT
What a delightfully profound and magical entry. I don't recall reading it before. Perhaps it "aired" prior to my knowledge of Sarah and her CB site.
I miss this type of writing from you, Becky. It always evokes some kind of emotional and spiritual revelation from me...for me.
Sue G
- Monday, August 16, 2010 3:45 PM CDT
An Invitation To All Prayer Warriors
The Prayer Warriors at Angel_Wings will be
holding a Prayer Vigil on Thursday, August 19th.
between 8-9 pm EST for all the families on our
Angel_Wings Prayer Lists and our Angel families of
children,teens and adults who have gained their wings.
If you have someone you would like us to pray for or a special request for yourself, please don't hesitate to let us
know..
MJ/Angel_Wings/AngelWingsRemembers
Angel_Wings Prayer Warriors
AngelWingsRemembers
MJ/Angel_Wings <marijeighn2010@gmail.com>
- Monday, August 16, 2010 11:59 AM CDT
I've been a lurker for several years and now I see what a small world it is! First Baptist Church of Orlando is where I used to rehearse with my community chorus, Sing Live Orlando. Management at FBCO changed a couple of years ago and we've since moved on to a different church for rehearsals, but it was very nostalgic to see the choir rehearsal room in your pictures, since I spent many a Tuesday and/or Thursday night there ;-) Thanks for the smiles!
Sharon Heg
Orlando, FL USA - Saturday, August 14, 2010 3:32 PM CDT
Thank you SO much for sharing the rest of the Disney story. I got goosebumps reading it!
We adore Disney, all 4 of us. In fact we just got home a couple weeks ago from a visit. Glad you all had some magic while there!
I enjoy reading these older entries as I was not a reader then. Especially nice knowing how well Sarah is doing NOW.
Jill
FL - Saturday, August 14, 2010 12:18 AM CDT
Popping in to check on Sarah (who looks terrific!)...she continues to be in my thoughts and prayers....
Robin Brunet <robinb@start.ca>
Bradford, Ontario Canada - Tuesday, August 10, 2010 11:23 AM CDT
I have to know, did you all get to go to Disney or was that postponed?
I did not know about your CB page back when this happened and appreciate getting a glimpse of your life back then.
Jill
FL - Wednesday, August 4, 2010 7:15 PM CDT
Once again, I am speechless. Thank you for sharing another part of your history.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Wednesday, August 4, 2010 4:39 PM CDT
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/colepetrie
Please check out this site. Cole (from Canada) lost his fight with NB today (Sunday) afternoon. His aunt updated the site. Be sure to read Saturday's post written by mom, I think. He woke up in the middle of the night (actually, I think he was up) and requested the whole family play some board games together. So, dad (who was on Cole duty) woke up Mom and shared his request (it was like 3:30 am) and they were MORE THAN happy to play whatever game(s) he wanted (for as long as he wanted). He was animated, laughing and enjoying the time with his family. It was around 24 hours later (if I am understanding the timing) that Cole "got his wings!" I thought if you didn't know him, you might want to know him.
Sarah you continue to amaze me. I think you should share a portion of your book (the one you sent me and I loved about the girls in the adoption agency)! Be sure to warn everyone that if they just read a chapter or two they will be hooked and need to have the whole thing just like I did.
Love to all!
JS from IL
- Sunday, August 1, 2010 6:29 PM CDT
I know when you fought through all those cancer years, you just did what had to be done because it had to be done but, honestly, I don't know how you did it - I know the smiles you talked about were precious. Sarah's big brother is an amazing young man - now and then. Thank you, again, for sharing some of the "old" stories. I pray every day that they remain "old" stories.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Thursday, July 29, 2010 12:49 AM CDT
Becky,
My children attend a childhood cancer camp in the foot hills of Alberta Canada. Camp Kindle - Kids Cancer Care foundation of Alberta. I like the idea of each child getting a bear and blanket to use for the week and take home! Google the camp and see the difference! My children always have an amazing week connecting with old friends and making new ones!
Carolyn <abknsmom@telus.net>
Grande Prairie, Ab Canada - Monday, July 26, 2010 9:37 PM CDT
Sarah,
Thank you so much for writing this piece. You are an EXCELLENT writer and I really enjoyed getting a glimpse of Victory Junction camp. I've heard alot about it but living on the other side of the nation (Spokane Washington - Eastern Washington which is very different from Western Washington and is located along the border of the state of Idaho about half way down the Washington state border) obviously never got to go there. Instead I went to another camp sponsored by the Children's Hospital in Seattle that makes your camp look so luxurious! Ours wasn't really a specialized camp. There were 100 campers with all forms of disabilities and illnesses with about 70% using wheelchairs. I found out later as an adult that the camp site was not even considered wheelchair accessible! There was no indoor plumbing in the cabins so a bathroom trip was always an ordeal especially if you required alot of adaptive equipment. I really learned alot when I was privileged to go back as an adult counselor. Is that something Victory Junction allows and is it something you think you might want to do? Summer camp was always a wonderful week that was a highlight of my childhood and to this day I have lifelong friends I keep in touch with. I am so glad for you that a spot opened up at the last minute even if it was in the kidney camp. I hope you had a wonderful time. It certainly sounds like you did!
Danette <butterflydanette@gmail.com>
Spokane, WA - Tuesday, July 20, 2010 9:48 AM CDT
Sarah,
enjoyed reading about your fun half-week!!!!
it is quite evident how much you like to write!...
and you are quite talented in that area! of course, you knew that since you are a published author.
mrs Pam
- Monday, July 19, 2010 10:15 AM CDT
Sarah, I am so glad you had such a great time. Your writing is incredible. I see mom's blog becoming Smittelaneous and Daughter very soon!
lisa <lisahlisah973@yahoo.com>
- Sunday, July 18, 2010 8:59 PM CDT
Sarah, that entry was great!!! You have a gift for writing just as your Mother. So glad you enjoyed camp and had some "new" experiences.
Ann Martin
- Saturday, July 17, 2010 10:22 PM CDT
AN INVITATION TO ALL PRAYER WARRIORS
The Prayer Warriors at Angel_Wings
are holding a Prayer Vigil on Monday,
July 19th, between 8-9 pm EST for
all the families on our Angel_Wings
Prayer Lists and our Angel families
of children, teens and adults who
have gained their angel wings.
Angel_Wings Prayer Warriors
AngelWingsRemembers
Debbie/Angel_Wings
- Saturday, July 17, 2010 6:13 PM CDT
Thank you, Sarah. That was so much fun to read. Brought back some memories when I was a counselor at a camp for kids with Cerebral Palsy. However, our cabins, etc. were nowhere near as nice as yours. I am glad you had fun and did some activities you passed up in prior years. The zip line sounds fabulous. Write again, please.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Lousi, MO - Friday, July 16, 2010 3:45 PM CDT
Dear Sarah,
Our wonderful poet is also a gifted writer... COngratulations! Your creativity with words and sense of humor makes your story so vibrant, full of life and a true treasure to read.
Thank you for the gift! and glad you had a good time.
Lots of love,
Eva
Eva Van den Broeck
Bruxelles, Belgium - Friday, July 16, 2010 1:31 PM CDT
Sarah,
Love your description of Victory Junction. I have attended another Hole in the Wall Camp - Camp Boggy Creek for three years. Wish we could host "exchange campers" to attend camp with us and us with them. There are similarities between the camps and things that make each camp unique.
I got to experience the Tower and Zipline for the first time this year. It was a great thrill! Our tower has three choices - a rock wall, a giant's ladder (it is awaiting repair) or an elevator. The rock wall is unique in that the rocks actually rotate : ).
Your "pole position" time sounds like our "manatee"- at Camp Boggy Creek you get to choose whether to go to manatee or sleep in a little later and then go to breakfast so I would think "pole position" would be your first activity of the day (if you chose to be an early activity participant).
Alexandra and Becky
Kissimmee, FL United States - Friday, July 16, 2010 10:29 AM CDT
I truly felt like I was there. You are a wonderful writer! Keep it up! I would love to read more stories of your adventures and outings.
Jill
FL - Friday, July 16, 2010 10:01 AM CDT
Sarah - just like your mom, you have a flair for words. I am a huge Nascar fan and I know all about Victory Junction but it is great to see a whole story on it from someone who has been there (many times).
Mel
- Friday, July 16, 2010 9:57 AM CDT
Your writing sounds just like your mom's.
That's a compliment.
Sue G
- Thursday, July 15, 2010 10:42 PM CDT
This is a VERY well written journal of your time at camp...it made me feel like I was there with you! I looked up Poll Position in Nascar and here is the definition:
*the most favorable position at the start of a race*...so when you had to figure out your poll position for activities at camp you had to figure out your favorite things to do first :). I am so happy you are able to be there and enjoy yourself! Thank you for sharing your experience!
Sheri
Verona, WI - Thursday, July 15, 2010 10:09 PM CDT
Thanks for sharing your adventures, Sarah. You are such a descriptive writer - must be in the genes! Enjoy the rest of your summer.
Liz Wicks
MN - Thursday, July 15, 2010 9:52 PM CDT
Sarah, Thanks for your wonderful update. I love reading your firsthand accounts! You and your mom are both gifted writers and I enjoy hearing from both of you! Glad you had a good time and I know your parents are glad to have you home.
Lisa Landrum
Homerville, GA - Thursday, July 15, 2010 8:24 PM CDT
Thank you for the "camp report" Sarah! You have the touch it takes to be an author and I look forward to seeing your name in print for years to come! Glad you had a good time at VJ.
Love, hugs and ladybugs,
Linda Resinger
Farmington, MO - Thursday, July 15, 2010 8:22 PM CDT
I have been to the camp it is a really neat place. I would love to get in the pool there. in fact I'd like to camp there but they told me 70 is just to old. I make some afgans for the camp and also a few teddy bears....
your story is great. keep up the writing for us....
Sharon Holweger <sholweger5@yahoo.com>
- Thursday, July 15, 2010 6:19 PM CDT
Loved hearing all about camp. Maybe you guys could rig a zip-line in your backyard?! You know, just for fun. :D
Kim <W8k@aol.com>
Kingston, TN - Thursday, July 15, 2010 6:05 PM CDT
Enjoyable story and love your sense of humor too! I see the conductor enjoyed it too! :) Just curious if you all brought your own blankets that were at the end of the beds or were they given to you to use? Looks so inviting!
Kathy
MN - Thursday, July 15, 2010 2:46 PM CDT
Just delightful, but no surprise there. Thanks for making my day.
The Conductor
Manteo , NC US of A - Thursday, July 15, 2010 1:30 PM CDT
Sounds like a wonderful time!! Thanks so much for sharing!
Shannon
Lincoln, NE - Thursday, July 15, 2010 1:30 PM CDT
Sarah, you are as good as your mom at writing, what a wonderful week you must have had. By the way, I AM a race fan and I think that the Victory Junction Gang Camp is a wonderful thing
Gail Puckett
Kingsport, TN 37660 - Thursday, July 15, 2010 1:26 PM CDT
Loved your Camp Report, Sarah! You are a nut, just like your mother :-). (And also a very talented writer.) So glad you had a good time--love you!
Aunt Deb
P.S. Did you think the counselor was cute?
dmantik <rmantik@verizon.net>
- Thursday, July 15, 2010 1:08 PM CDT
Oh, Sarah! This sounded like such wonderful fun! And the Zip Line?!!!!! My hat's off to you, girl! I'll remember your courage when I decide to try one! Seriously, loved your writing and hope to hear more from you soon.
Ciao!
Guerrina in Ledyard
Guerrina <waters7989@yahoo.com>
Ledyard, CT USA - Thursday, July 15, 2010 1:06 PM CDT
Sarah! Awesome account of your half-week. I was wondering if you would ever consider being a counselor? It seems like you would be really good at it.
My favorite line was about your mom hugging your neck-baahahahahaha! You are funny and reading your words is very enjoyable. Thanks for taking the time to enlighten us.
Also, you are writing a book? Do tell!
Lesley
Cape Cod, MA - Thursday, July 15, 2010 12:25 AM CDT
Is there going to be a report about Sarah's week at Camp? :-)
dmantik <rmantik@verizon.net>
- Wednesday, July 14, 2010 10:42 AM CDT
Sarah,
I work at a sister camp (Double H Hole in the Wall Camp) full time, and would LOVE reading what you have to say about camp (ie what program areas you like, funny stories, what you remember etc). It's really loads of fun week in and week out, but I always wonder what our campers like most or remember about camp.
It's good to see that counselors are crazy everywhere! Love the bunny hop :)
Joyce <jdadekia@skidmore.edu>
Albany, NY USA - Friday, July 9, 2010 3:33 PM CDT
Sarah,
I have been following your story since shortly after you were diagnosed. I am so glad to see how well you are doing and what a fine young lady you have grown into. Jillian Lamparyk was my niece. She was at Duke around the same time you were. I just wanted to let you know that I continue to pray for all of the children on 5200 and that I am so pleased to continue to read about you! May God continue to bless your life....
Sincerely,
Meg Fox <megmfox@cox.net>
Olmsted Falls , Ohio - Thursday, July 8, 2010 2:46 PM CDT
Great bike, Sarah. I remember the earlier bike pictures. So glad you have another bike so that you can feel the freedom of biking. It is such a great experience to pedal your way to bookstores, adventures or just touring around. Have fun - that is a perfect summer activity
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Lousi, MO - Wednesday, July 7, 2010 4:01 PM CDT
Sarah, that bike is awesome!!!! Now you can go out on your own. Your poor mama. We have the hardest time letting you guys go but there is so much smiling for us through the tears.
I'm so happy for you.
Lesley
Cape Cod, MA - Saturday, July 3, 2010 6:55 PM CDT
aha, yep, bikes for shorter chicks. i know the problem. it can be hard. one solution i found was a fold up bike - small wheels, so adjustable.. oh, and that it folds up is totally cool and people love to see me fold it up. so, i hope you don't mind that un-asked for suggestion.. but just in case sarah is ever in the market for another bike.. this is what i got http://www.dahon.com/bikes/2010/boardwalk-d7 and i'm 4'9".
brooke robertshaw
logan, ut - Saturday, July 3, 2010 2:14 AM CDT
Sarah, please tell you mom that she looks beautiful with our without makeup - I am envious! Also, whatever, whenever you feel like writing something you want us to read or you want to tell, just do it! No pressure as to what the subject should be because writing what is on your mind or in your heart at the moment is the best writing to do. Hope that makes this a little easier for you Sarah. Besides, its summertime - there are no requirements in summertime! That's what the school year is all about. My girls used to love to read a dictionary also and I am fascinated with Latin. What are your favorite word games? Scrabble, the old standard, is one of mine.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Wednesday, June 30, 2010 9:56 AM CDT
Thanks for the answers :) Hope Sarah's summer vacation is going well and (in a cross-blog reference) that this morning's termite inspection was just a formality now dispensed with!
Kristina <kristinacreek@yahoo.com>
Fairbanks, AK - Tuesday, June 29, 2010 2:06 PM CDT
Sarah, your room looks wonderful. I hope you are enjoying your summer. It will be time for high school before you know it. You are a beautiful young lady and I enjoy reading, and watching you grow. You are in my prayers.
Linda Cornelius
- Friday, June 18, 2010 9:48 PM CDT
Hello, Smiths!
Congrats on being a high schooler, Sarah! Our respective middle school careers were pretty different, because I attended public school throughout, but I will say that I liked high school much better than middle school.
I have a variety of comments that have apparently been storing up:
- Is Sarah going to do more 'this is how I remember' stories? I really enjoyed reading about her life from her point of view. It could be any story she remembers (even a recent one - how about the loud and annoying graduation guys, or helping her Mom through surgery/reconstruction?!).
- At some point (and I think it may actually have been last summer?) Sarah had a list of things she wanted to accomplish over a certain time period, like drinking British tea. Does she have another list for this summer?
- This is probably a weird observation, but is the wooden shoe organizer in Sarah's closet backwards? I have one that I think is exactly the same, and it has one side that is rough, exposed wood; the other side is finished in the same shiny white melamine as the rest of the shelving.
Kristina <kristinacreek@yahoo.com>
Fairbanks, AK - Friday, June 18, 2010 3:29 PM CDT
An Invitation To All Prayer Warriors
The Prayer Warriors at Angel_Wings will be
holding a Prayer Vigil on Saturday June 19th.
between 8-9 pm EST for all the families on our
Angel_Wings Prayer Lists and our Angel families of
children,teens and adults who have gained their wings.
If you have someone you would like us to pray for who
is not on our payer lists please don't hesitate to let us
know..
MJ/Angel_Wings/AngelWingsRemembers
Angel_Wings Prayer Warriors
AngelWingsRemembers
MJ/Angel_Wings <marijeighn1@gmail.com>
- Friday, June 18, 2010 7:53 AM CDT
Love the remark... Creative people are not especially neat people. fits me to a T. I am so busy with all my craft ideas I dont have time for cleaning. I need a helper to come get things organized again
Sharon <sholweger5@yahoo.com>
- Thursday, June 17, 2010 11:13 PM CDT
Beautiful young lady!!!! (Just a Mom talking, I know I am not cool, but I especially love the pictures without her hair covering her eyes!) She's such a beautiful young lady I love seeing her entire face! I know she has a proud mom and dad lurking behind the camera!
Elizabeth <elaurenc@aol.com>
Norfolk, VA United States - Wednesday, June 16, 2010 7:11 PM CDT
Congratulations, Sarah! You are such a classic beauty with all the graciousness that implies. High school awaits you, Bella! The pic of the loud boys amused me no end being the mother of a boy. Such "angelic-I-am-totally-behaving" faces! NOT! Enjoy the laid back life of a small town on the water ... in the summer ... smell the beach roses and the honeysuckle ... get up early and watch the sun rise and sparkle on the ocean like diamonds from heaven ... smell the water ... hear the waves breaking on shore like a symphony ... walk on the beach barefoot before anyone else is up ... and just breathe, relax and enjoy God's creation!
Guerrina <waters7989@yahoo.com>
Ledyard, CT - Tuesday, June 15, 2010 12:09 AM CDT
Happy Graduation!!!! 9th grade next year? Eeekkk..I feel old! When I first saw Sarah up on 5200 she was a tiny little thing! Now she is a beautiful teenager! Enjoy your summer Sarah!!!
alyssa...www.caringbridge.org/ca/bennettboys (my godchildren) <sabiemc@aol.com>
Boston, MA USA - Monday, June 14, 2010 9:49 PM CDT
Sarah, you looked beautiful on your graduation evening. Sorry the "boys" were bad - but you rose above it and that is all that matters. The best part of the evening--your evening was made better by your mom and dad. There is no bigger and better graduation gift and achievement than that. You are such a positive person and so loved. Now, relax this summer and then head on to high school with your attitude and style in tact and your head held high and have a great time!!! Hug Snowy for me, if you would, please.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Lousi, MO - Monday, June 14, 2010 12:54 AM CDT
Egad, you’re a Grad,
and the way you were clad
with a good-looking Dad
made Mom very glad,
though she knew you were sad,
but just for a tad.
Congrats, Sarah!
(you have no competition here in the poetry department!)
xxoo Mrs. Pam
- Monday, June 14, 2010 7:53 AM CDT
Congratulations Sarah. Can't believe you're ready for high school. That was a cute dress your friend gave you, maybe she'll continue to be just a little bit bigger than you & you'll be the lucky one!
Sending you a big hug.
Margie Miller <margiemm54@aol.com>
Winter Springs, FL - Sunday, June 13, 2010 2:41 PM CDT
Sarah, A great big congratulations on all you have accomplished so far and all you will accomplish in the future. You need to pat yourself on the back for such good grades. It is very difficult making the transition from home school to middle school in a brand new city. You handled it with your usual wonderful flair. Best wishes for your coming years in high school. Fondly,
Anna
- Sunday, June 13, 2010 1:40 PM CDT
Congratulations, Sarah, on your achievement! I love the dress you wore to your grad and especially the necklace you chose to go with it. I'm only sorry it was a little too noisy for you & your family to thoroughly enjoy it. I think perhaps the boys might be a little quieter by the time high school graduation rolls around, but then again, boys being boys, you never know. I wish you all the best as you begin high school--but first, have a really great summer vacation!
Denise Ward <deniward@shaw.ca>
Winnipeg, Canada - Sunday, June 13, 2010 2:11 AM CDT
Becky, she is soo soo sweet. Sweet strong Sarah. It took an awful lot for her to get through the ceremony. And she hung in there, bless her heart.
And guys her age, they just have no dignity, do they? No sense of decorum. Uggh. :) Do they ever grow up? Not really, lol.
Oh and her dress is so pretty. It looks great with her hair!
Lesley
Cape cod, MA - Saturday, June 12, 2010 11:20 PM CDT
Sarah, dear Sarah. A graduation is a milestone. It is more than all you accomplished, although that does contribute to it. But it is what it portends. It is the promise of a future, a time of growth and flow and ebb, all the while learning who you are, discovering all you want to be, determining what fits and what needs to be discarded. Graduation is similar to cleaning out a closet. After careful observation, you keep what you need and want and release what no longer serves you to hold on to. You get to make room for all that is coming, all that will arrive in time with the promise of more room to grow, bigger definitions of self, and greater experiences of getting there. You travel through this personal fashion show holding on to the memories that are sweet and that promoted good discoveries of self. You discard what no longer fits because you have outgrown it. You are a creature in a changing body in a world in flux. And it is all for you to enjoy, create, mold, shape, dream, imagine, plan, and work toward.
What an exciting time to be you. What a wonderful gift you will continue to be to the world. What a delight you will be to watch as you unfold and spread your wings and fly.
Yes, today was an important milestone. But what lies ahead will trump today in major ways...ways that noise and boisterous boys and conformity cannot contain all that you are intended to be.
Congratulations, Sweetie.
Sue G
- Saturday, June 12, 2010 9:49 PM CDT
due to an illness i deal with i too am sensitive to lots of noise. it's hard and i tend to avoid places like noisy gyms as much as possible. glad sarah made it through, even with the disappointment. and happy summer on the outer banks :)
brooke robertshaw
logan, UT United States - Saturday, June 12, 2010 8:25 PM CDT
Congratulations, Sarah! I am sorry the evening was a strain for you. 90 minutes is way too long for an 8th grade graduation. I am impressed that you were able to hang in there with the noise. Hope you have a wonderful summer!
Liz Wicks
MN - Saturday, June 12, 2010 5:19 PM CDT
Congratulations Sarah!! Hope you enjoy your Summer!
Love,
Michelle-
Michelle Zammat <whisperpur@gmail.com>
Belcamp, MD USA - Friday, June 11, 2010 6:17 AM CDT
So congrats...So proud of you, and of Mom too. Thinking of you, and keeping you in my prayers. May God shower you with many blessings this summer.
Linda Cornelius <lwcornelius@yahoo.com>
- Thursday, June 10, 2010 7:10 PM CDT
WHAT???!!??? WOW!!!! and, YOU ARE KIDDING?!!! But most of all CONGRATULATIONS, SARAH!!! You are in for the time of your life in high school. You will seriously begin shaping the course of your educational future and studies and your life's work and passions. It will fly by - absorb every minute - enjoy every event and join many organizations that interest you - especially a publication for the high school, like yearbook or newspaper. It is fabulous experience and fun. Have a good time. Becky, I understand the sobbing, I have done it many times and where, oh where do the years go but what a blessing and celebration that Sarah is just exactly where she is today. Enjoy the summer, Sarah, you have earned it.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Thursday, June 10, 2010 11:20 AM CDT
Congratulations Sarah -- Becky, I can totally relate. Our daughter, Morgan, graduated 8th grade on May 20th. She is now enrolled in high school -- for her first summer school class! YIKES! Where has the time gone??? Sniff....sniff...sniff.....
Beth Kayser <randybethmo@yahoo.com>
Bakersfield, CA - Thursday, June 10, 2010 9:04 AM CDT
Graduation congratulations, Sarah! :)
And Becky, I understand you sniff. I can't wait to see all thebillons of pictures and the report, hehe. Love to you all.)
trine
denmark - Thursday, June 10, 2010 3:09 AM CDT
I know what you are feeling Becky. My Zachary is also going in the 9th grade. I can hardly get over it myself. I remember when he was just a little guy. And now he is taller then me.lol where does the time go. And why so fast? Well at least we can go threw this kind of together.lol!!
Catherine
Zebulon, NC USA - Wednesday, June 9, 2010 10:25 PM CDT
Congratulations, Princess Groovy Chick!
This is a BIG step for you. I am very, very proud of you, young lady. You are going to love high school. Wishing you a great night tonight. ;o)
Angel Hugs and Smiles,
Ms Polly @ Angel_Wings Prayer Warriors
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Angel_Wings
- Wednesday, June 9, 2010 4:28 PM CDT
Graduation congratulations, Sarah! Another milestone achieved ... with endurance & persistance ... grace and courage ... you did it! May the Lord who knew you before the foundations of the earth were laid, continue to keep you safe and healthy and always on new and fabulous adventures! Let me know when you publish a book - I would love to read it whether fact, fiction or poetry! Your words are beautiful!
Ciao, Bella!
Guerrina <waters7989@yahoo.com>
Ledyard, CT - Wednesday, June 9, 2010 3:30 PM CDT
Sarah, you have finally expressed all I feel about the life of a fish - I never thought anyone else pondered this or observed the same or felt the same desire to shout - "Don't go for the hook, no matter how hungry you are!" Also, we own Princess Bride and love it (from the time my girls were smallish to this present day). It is such a fun fantasy. Great poetry - I would also buy a book of your poems. Think about it - illustrate it with drawings or photos of your own.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Monday, June 7, 2010 3:48 PM CDT
I would buy a book of your poems in a heartbeat.
Kim Waggoner <W8k@aol.com>
Kingston, TN - Monday, June 7, 2010 2:31 PM CDT
Yes, I too, am a Princess Bride fan. Have watched it upteen times. And like Bea who wrote "mauridge" or however it's spelled, just cracked me up. You chose well, Sarah in writing about that movie. You have a wonderful gift of words, just like your mom. Blessings young lady!
Sharyn McDonald <sharynmcd@msn.com>
- Sunday, June 6, 2010 1:03 AM CDT
PRINCESS BRIDE....! My Rachael's favorite book AND movie. We watched it a lot ... we read it a lot. I miss my Rachael a lot, but still enjoy watching and reading THE PRINCESS BRIDE.
Kathie Mayo www.caringbridge.org/mn/rachaelmayo <winkatmayo@hotmail.com>
- Saturday, June 5, 2010 7:07 PM CDT
Hi Sarah!!
I loved your new poems! We also love "The Princess Bride"!!! "Skip to the END...." "Mawridge...." My daughter's friend used to leave these quotes on our answering machine and we got a kick out of it. At that time we hadn't seen or heard of the movie. She loaned it to us. We also watched it many times!
Love you sweetie!!
Bea <bumblebee1955@gmail.com>
Pa - Friday, June 4, 2010 8:38 PM CDT
I absolutely LOVE the Princess Bride! I must watch it with my Sarrah soon! Thanks for the great poem & the reminder of such a wonderful movie!
Lizz
TX - Friday, June 4, 2010 6:54 PM CDT
These newest two brought smiles to my face! I, too, love The Princess Bride movie and, having grown up on the ocean coast, the life of a fish ...well ...all too true!
Ciao, Bella!
Guerrina Hernandez <waters7989@yahoo.com>
Ledyard, CT - Friday, June 4, 2010 3:05 PM CDT
Sarah, your poetry is awesome. I am just entralled with "Fingernails." There are so many ways to read it and so many thoughts throughout the poem. Wonderful job! Don't stop writing - I see a book in your future with photos by your mom accompanying the poems. Be very proud of your achievements, Sarah.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Wednesday, June 2, 2010 9:39 AM CDT
Awedome poetry and thought provoking! Thank you, Sarah!
Guerrina
Ledyard, CT - Wednesday, June 2, 2010 9:23 AM CDT
Dear Sarah, Your poems are wonderful and I look forward to reading more of them. Keep up the good work! Aunt Dottie Kiebler
Dorothy Kiebler <waynedot25@aol.com>
Portersville, Pa. USA - Wednesday, June 2, 2010 2:41 AM CDT
Sarah, your writing is amazing! I hope you keep writing poetry and letting us read it. Loved it!
Liz Wicks
MN - Tuesday, June 1, 2010 9:08 PM CDT
I am utterly blown away by your poetry!
Stefanie
St. Louis, - Tuesday, June 1, 2010 9:58 AM CDT
Wow, Sarah. I am amazed at the depth and beauty of your poems. You are a very talented writer and I am proud of you!
Love,
Aunt Deb
dmantik <rmantik @verizon.net>
- Tuesday, June 1, 2010 8:18 AM CDT
Hi Sarah! First I would like to say how much I loved your poems! Wow! You are SO talented!
That is just fantastic that you got to see Dr. Driscoll and some of the nurses that remembered you. I was just so happy when I read that, that I just cried happy tears. :) How wonderful!! I loved seeing the pictures. :)
CONGRATULATIONS on your urine test being so low as well!! WHOO HOO!!!!! You are so special Sarah! Love to you and your whole family too!~!!! X O X O God bless each of you!!
Bea <bumblebee1955@gmail.com>
PA - Monday, May 31, 2010 4:56 PM CDT
HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY!
God bless,love & hugs,Linn,Daniel,Michael & Ariel
The Marrero's <gillinn7@msn.com>
- Sunday, May 30, 2010 6:55 PM CDT
I love the day at Duke entry. And am SO happy about the urine results! :)
Jill
FL - Saturday, May 29, 2010 6:02 AM CDT
((((Sarah)))) Hallelujah!
Rejoicing with you,
Eva
Eva Van den Broeck
Bruxelles, Belgium - Wednesday, May 26, 2010 12:30 AM CDT
What wonderful news. Praise be to God.
Anna
- Tuesday, May 25, 2010 6:27 PM CDT
Test results Happy Dance!!! :+)
Hugs!!
Connie F-G <cdlfg@cox.net>
LaVista, NE - Tuesday, May 25, 2010 4:42 PM CDT
So incredibly happy about the urine test results.
Amanda J <amanda@southpawcentral.com>
Avondale, AZ usa - Tuesday, May 25, 2010 3:08 PM CDT
What joyful days to celebrate the work of our God in the midst of a cancer war. Praying always for the miracles to be used to help others and then we read of your moment with the woman on the elevator. That's what being in the survivor camp is all about--HOPE! Thanks, Sarah and Becky, for sharing. God's power overwhelms me with JOY!
Betty Lingle
Mercer, Pa USA - Tuesday, May 25, 2010 8:19 AM CDT
We visited the VA in Durham today and of course saw Duke across the street. Jim had to make a sudden visit due to an ulcer that appeared on his hip yesterday. All is well and we just have to dress it daily for 2 weeks. He is on meds to stop infection. Enjoyed the pictures. We have known you and been following your story since 2003. Wow! So much has happened and we are so glad to be friends with the Smith family.
Ann Martin <ann64@charter.net>
Roanoke Rapids, NC - Monday, May 24, 2010 8:16 PM CDT
I was checking in on Sarah. You visited our church, Thomasville Assembly of God years ago and I have always had a heart to pray for Sarah. It's good to see your beautiful pictures. I know you've had a long hard battle--but God is good!
Cindy parker
Thomasville, NC USA - Monday, May 24, 2010 6:18 PM CDT
I always love reading about your visits to Duke, not just because they represent markers of months and years that continue to connect together and coalesce into a loooong, glorious lifetime of making new memories...but, because there is always the reminder that Sarah herself is a marker of hope in the middle of a world where hopelessness is always fought but not always overcome. Sarah represents that overcoming is not only possible but very real, very tangible. So in the middle of the struggle, real people can reach out and touch real hope personified.
Pediatric cancer is a world where the numbers make no sense. They are too big, too powerful, too plentiful. And Sarah is just one...just ONE young lady.
But when there is one, there is hope for two. And when there are two, there is hope for three. And so it goes, this thing called hope. And so it grows, this thing called hope.
And that's the real reason you put on the boots and wash your hands and wait for the right sequence of doors to open and close. Not because of who you will see. But because of who will see you.
To keep hope alive.
Sue G <sueg7@cox.net>
- Monday, May 24, 2010 2:32 PM CDT
Ahhh.. Sue nailed it perfectly. I cannot even imagine going back to a place that is hell and salvation rolled into one terrible, beautiful memory. But to be in the elevator and find that your visit, no matter how hard, brought the gift of hope to one battle-scarred little warrior? That is pure and simple joy. There is no doubt in my mind but that God's plan for Sarah is specific and BIG.... and to be able to cheer her on is such a privilege. hugs...
Pam D <p_dought@bellsouth.net>
Powder Springs, GA USA - Monday, May 24, 2010 10:19 AM CDT
Wow! I rarely cry or even tear up, but Sarah's story giving hope followed by Sue G.'s response in the guestbook did me in. Cogratulations all on year 8!
jan
toledo, - Monday, May 24, 2010 9:01 AM CDT
What a beautiful entry and Sarah giving a young girl hope was the icing on the cake. Thanks for sharing that with us.
Hugs!
Connie F-G <cdlfg@cox.net>
LaVista, NE - Monday, May 24, 2010 8:20 AM CDT
What a beautiful entry becky. How I miss working with such brave young children. It is so nice to see how well Sarah is doing and how my old work buddies looked in the picture!!! I miss them too!!
Give Sarah a big hug for me and tell her I miss seeing her on her visits to Duke. Maybe one day we will see each other again
God bless
Love nurse donna
donna currie <dukepbmt@aol.com>
guysborough, ns canada - Monday, May 24, 2010 6:35 AM CDT
Beautiful entry. It gave me groosebumps. Sarah you look so pretty :) I like your outfit :)
Trine
- Monday, May 24, 2010 3:27 AM CDT
Beautiful. Beautiful entry. Beautiful girl and her beautiful , happy Momma! :)
Kim <W8k@aol.com>
Kingston, TN - Sunday, May 23, 2010 8:57 PM CDT
It's so great that you were able to go back to the transplant floor. Did you have to get permission ahead of time? Or were you able to just show up?
Great pics Becky. You guys have had a busy month! Whew!
Lesley
Cape Cod, MA - Sunday, May 23, 2010 7:05 PM CDT
CONGRATULATIONS dear Sarah! Wow!! 8 years!!!! Fantastic!!!!
I loved the story about when Sarah was about 4 and saw the angels out the window that were singing to her. Precious.... I'll never forget that!
X O X O X
Bea <bumblebee1955@gmail.com>
Pa - Wednesday, May 19, 2010 6:57 PM CDT
My favorite memory is meeting the Smith family for the first time at Duke. Sarah had recently had the transplant and was back for a check up. That picture still sits on our den end table of the five of us. My, how Sarah has grown. Another picture is on the refrigerator and I enjoy seeing the difference. Praise God for 8 great years.
Ann Martin
Roanoke Rapids, NC - Tuesday, May 18, 2010 8:00 PM CDT
Thinking of you as you are busy with those appts in Durham. Praying for good times bonding, in between the other stuff, that could get in the way of living, but with God all things are possible, as we know from your precious miracle from God. Love to Mom and Sarah
Linda C
- Tuesday, May 18, 2010 7:11 PM CDT
8 years!!!!! Awesome! Go Sarah Go!!!
alyssa <sabiemc@aol.com>
boston, ma USA - Tuesday, May 18, 2010 4:21 PM CDT
An Invitation To All Prayer Warriors
The Prayer Warriors at Angel_Wings will be
holding a Prayer Vigil on Wednesday May 19th.
between 8-9 pm EST for all the families on our
Angel_Wings Prayer Lists and our Angel families of
children,teens and adults who have gained their wings.
If you have someone you would like us to pray for who
is not on our payer lists please don't hesitate to let us
know..
MJ/Angel_Wings/AngelWingsRemembers
Angel_Wings Prayer Warriors
AngelWingsRemembers
MJ/Angel_Wings <marijeighn1@gmail.com>
- Tuesday, May 18, 2010 6:29 AM CDT
Hi Sarah - good job on memory#1! A similar thing happened to me and my daughter in a busy hospital. I think she was about 6(?)at the time. She went into the elevator first and I was pushing my mum in a wheelchair and somehow couldn't follow in time before the elevator doors closed! I could hear her panicked wail as she descended to...where?? We had to call security to find her and it was crazy stressful until we reunited! I am sure it has stuck in her mind too...you write very well so I look forward to more posts!
Anne <annecase1@gmail.com>
- Monday, May 17, 2010 5:19 PM CDT
Hi Sarah,
Happy heathly anniversday :D Wondering if you could write a bit about your feelings if you remember how you felt when you were diagnosed with NB eight years ago? I wonder how much you can remember from that day. I hope you will have an amazing summer, thanks for being such an inspiration. :)
PS: I like the piece you wrote about Halocuast by the way
trine
- Monday, May 17, 2010 10:54 AM CDT
I don't know if it is the chemo or simply age, but after a while, all the stories seem to blur into one theme: a theme of love that binds the four of you together during tragedy, trauma, good times, and bad times. I can vividly recall the time you wrote of Nathan's love and protectiveness, of Steve' silly gestures to make Sarah smile, of difficult questions and even more difficult answers that mom and Sarah shared at an age where innocence was lost and reality was grim and difficult to face. I remember the laughter and the smiles. The times where Sarah would dress up for Halloween, or wear her little hat with the hair attached. I remember dozens of photos of Sarah and her best friend, playing and laughing and living a life as two normal little girls in very abnormal surroundings. I remember snowy always being so close, so cuddled on whichever family member was hurting at the time. I remember pokes and prods, tests and scans, and I remember dried up lips and skin and sores that wouldn't go away. I remember a little girl who once looked like a Holocaust survivor and she is now writing about those same people. Only with Sarah, there was no explanation about her bondage and the cruelty that befell her. It was simply by chance and destination. But each day so clearly reveals that there is such purpose in her life now, in her destination, in her health. She is a beacon of hope to the hopeless, of warmth and laughter in what can be a very cold and impersonal journey. She embodies the human spirit, the human need to rise above all frailty and not on survive, but thrive and grow and enrich and share.
There is way too much of her story to simply recall or recount. Sarah's story continues. And as she grows, her story takes on a deeper meaning of truth and promise than a mere cancer journey. It is a journey of love and of how love transcends all depths of despair to arise like a phoenix and soar into wondrous possibility.
That's more than what I remember. That's what I absolutely know.
Sue G
- Monday, May 17, 2010 10:37 AM CDT
Hi Sarah,
I first came to your site through Christi Thomas' site, and got hooked by your pics and your mum's writing (I love that you use the British version of 'mum', by the way :))
The memory that leaps out at me is the picture of your face when you were told you were in remission the second time - such hope, such joy - amazing! What was going through your head there?
Becky <mysticalnight@hotmail.com>
UK - Monday, May 17, 2010 3:16 AM CDT
Sarah,
I first came to your site after finding out about neuroblastoma through a classmate of my daughter's who was in 1st grade at the time. My daughter is now in 5th grade so I guess we've been keeping in touch for a while. Seems the neuroblastoma world on Caringbridge is pretty small so I jumped around and met a few others who were also battling the same disease as you and my daughter's friend. I have stayed with you for several reasons...1, you are a true inspiration! 2, your mom is exactly 2 years younger than me and I get a kick out of her writing. 3, I grew up in a small town church that had a lot of travelling family singing groups so I really get your history. I'll never forget hearing the Patti family singers and my dad saying, "that little girl is going places!" 4, I have 3 daughters who all love to read and I enjoy hearing what you are reading. Keep writing Sarah! You are a miracle and you inpire so many people.
Lynda
Coupeville, WA usa - Sunday, May 16, 2010 8:22 PM CDT
I especially remember all the times when Sarah was so sick, and yet many times maintained her sense of humor and was able to smile - in spite of the fact that she was going through this horrific time in her life. I'm sure she was able to go through this because of Mom, Dad and Nathan and most of all her trust her in the Lord. So glad to hear it's been 8 years. God Bless.
Sharyn McDonald <sharynmcd@msn.com>
- Saturday, May 15, 2010 10:39 PM CDT
Oh, my, there are so many, many incidents I could choose from, but one that I would love to hear from Sarah's perspective is when she rode her bike for the first time. I can imagine the pride that she must have felt to have accomplished it!
Linda from Pittsburgh
- Friday, May 14, 2010 12:50 AM CDT
Well, there are just so many....Let's start with,
Snowy coming to get you and Steve when Sarah would be sick during the night
Sarah getting to visit with Snowy for the first time after transplant
Sarah riding her bike for the first time
Sarah and you meeting a newly diagnosed young girl and her mom and grandmother in the elevator at Duke
Your discussion with Sarah in the car as you explained to her what "good" she could do with her cancer and how proud she was with that information.....
There are many more - some I can only remember bits and pieces of but it has been a privilege to take part in this story - and Congratulations on an amazing milestone, Sarah. Can't wait to hear your "take" on some of these stories everyone is writing about.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Thursday, May 13, 2010 12:00 AM CDT
My favorite memory is one of the trips to an appointment and the "elevator" mishap... i can't remember all of the details.. but either you or sarah were still on the elevator and the other wasn't.
valerie <vapekar@yahoo.com>
MA - Wednesday, May 12, 2010 10:25 PM CDT
Hi Becky and Sarah,
I've read your site for many years, but don't think I have ever commented (despite your many pleas to do so!). I remember alot of your stories vividly, but the one that popped into my head immediately when you asked was one time Sarah came home from school and said another child was teasing her about her bald head. It made my heart ache, and I immediately went into "protective mom" mode( I have a 12 yr old daughter and 7 year old son and daughter)and thought some not so charitible thoughts about a child who could do that, but Sarah taught me a great lesson with her response that she was going to pray for the child! She truly is very wise beyond her years and I enjoy reading about your family. Thanks for sharing.
Rosemary
Philadelphia, PA - Wednesday, May 12, 2010 4:50 PM CDT
I can't remember the story in detail, but one that I recollect the most is Sarah making a cape for herself with the initials "VG" on it. Now, most people would recognize that as "Very Good" on a report card. She declared herself "Vomit Girl" due to all her vomiting episodes. That struck me on many levels. Here was a girl, as sick as she was, still able to be creative and be a child. Mostly, it amazed me that she was able to look at adversity with a young sense of humor. The older I get the more I am reminded that a sense of humor can be such an asset. Perhaps Sarah recognized it at an early age. Happy, healthy anniversary Sarah!!
Karen Cathey
Charlotte, NC - Wednesday, May 12, 2010 7:47 AM CDT
I've been reading your site for several years. There are many stories that have touched me through the years. I especially remember the heartbreak of finding out about Sarah's relapse. Sarah, that must have been so difficult for you. You knew from previous experience what kind of treatments were in store for you.
I really enjoy the stories about the family and how y'all have fun together. One story that stands out in my mind is about the A1 or should I say AL sauce!
Thank you for letting me read about your lives and get inspiration and perspective for my own life.
Beth Anderson
McDonough, GA USA - Wednesday, May 12, 2010 5:27 AM CDT
Hi Sarah! Here's my favorite part: "The nurse saw that she was done changing and told her that she should use the restroom before the scan started because she would have to lie perfectly still for forty-five minutes. Since the restroom was at the far end of the two rows of chairs I asked Sarah if she wanted me to go with her. She blithely responded, "Oh no, I can do it myself." She then turned to go but instead of walking sedately as all of us boring grown-ups would have done she deciding that skipping was the best mode of transportation. The lady beside me stared in open-mouthed wonder as my ridiculously dressed, seriously ill, bald child merrily skipped her way toward the restroom. The chairs on either side of the aisle were filled with a wide variety of people waiting for their names to be called; the only things they all had in common were faces filled with fear and worry. One by one I saw their heads raise as Sarah approached and as she passed I saw their fear give way to smiles. She disappeared into the bathroom and when she re-emerged she shifted herself back into skipping gear and jauntily hurtled her way back to us. What did a sight like that do for people facing their own mortality, facing their own fears? I think it gave them a little infusion of courage and joy; it gave them an image to carry in their minds as they submitted their bodies to the machines that would spell out life or death for him. It gave them a reason to smile. And as Sarah has often told me, "That's why I was born, to make people smile." Something tells me she's fulfilling her mission in a great way."
Lots of Love,
Kim from Kingston TN
Kim <W8k@aol.com>
- Tuesday, May 11, 2010 6:18 PM CDT
I have so many favorites, but the one most special to me was meeting the Smith family for the very first time! You have no idea how nervous I was! While I don't like having my picture taken very much I was so proud to see Sarah and I sitting together on a picture on her Caringbridge update. It was really wonderful to see the three of you a second time earlier this year and this time I wasn't nervous at all!
Cindy from Sonoma <clatoure@aol.com>
Sonoma, CA USA - Tuesday, May 11, 2010 5:22 PM CDT
Sarah
My fondest recollection of the happenings that your Mom documented is the times you went with your Dad to the hospital to visit parishioners who were undergoing cancer treatments, and that you not only explained some of the procedures, but you also said prayers. I know that you must have been such a blessing and great comfort for those who were most probably feeling quite apprehensive.
Mrs Pam
- Tuesday, May 11, 2010 4:44 PM CDT
Sarah and Family, I have adored you from the first time I read your CB site. You are an amazing family and I am so terrible disappointed I didn't get to meet you when you were in IL (15 or so minutes from my house). But, at least the package made it to the hotel and I made it to the Medical Hotel with sepsis! I just love you all. I love the time we all sent Sarah cards and the pictures of her with all the cards around her. So, perhaps, she could write about how it felt to receive all the mail----prayers via snail mail. How did all the love and prayers make you feel. EIGHT years, Sarah. YOUR amazing. How do you stay so positive?
Love, Jodi
- Tuesday, May 11, 2010 3:08 PM CDT
I've been following Sarah's site for about 6 years now (although I rarely comment) and the one event that stands out the most was when she relapsed a few years back. I remember being so devastated for all of you and crying while I read that particular entry. That was the year that a bunch of us sent Sarah cards for her 11th birthday. I went to the store to pick out just the right one, and I think it actually said "Groovy Chick" on it, so I knew that was the one I had to buy! I'm so happy that Sarah is celebrating her 8th anniversary of cancer diagnosis and is still here to enjoy life!
Becky, I wanted to tell you that I sent you a card on the day of your big surgery, but it was returned to me in the mail yesterday because I forgot to put a stamp on it. Yeah, I'm not too bright sometimes! Anyway, I sent it out again, so hopefully it'll be arriving sometime in the next week (I live in Canada, so it'll take longer) or so. I'm so glad you have recovered and are feeling better!
Jen Parnham <sheep_50@hotmail.com>
London, Ont. Canada - Tuesday, May 11, 2010 10:40 AM CDT
I have approximately a zillion stories I remember... I've only been visiting your blog for a couple of years but at one point, I confess I spent a lot of hours going back and reading pretty much every entry ever posted. The stories that immediately come to mind are:
- Nathan dealing with Sarah's medical needs in the middle of the night, and not waking up Mom and Dad to do it.
- One specific hospital visit that involved a lot of great stories: Sarah's resolution to save big fears for things that were really scary, her chattering away to a lady in the waiting room (patient? employee? don't remember . . .), and her asking you when God would heal her.
- Having to tell Sarah that she'd relapsed.
- And more recently, her 'the water sounds so pretty' comment after getting her hearing aids. Speaking of which, how is that going? Is she wearing them at all any more? Did it ever get any better?
I never know what pronouns to use here; am I writing to Becky? In which case all the Beckys would be 'you' and all the Sarahs' would be she? Or am I writing to Sarah, in which case... well, you get it. Maybe I'll just write out all the names, always. And maybe I'm overthinking!!
Kristina <kristinacreek@yahoo.com>
Fairbanks, AK - Monday, May 10, 2010 8:51 PM CDT
My husband and I drove with Morgan's class(also Sarah's age) to the Museum of Tolerance in Los Angeles. We were also impacted by the Holocaust tour that we took. They had actual uniforms, little cards for computers for you to "get to know" someone who experienced the Holocaust and where they are now, all the way to a mock set up of a concentration camp for us to visualize. It was a good learning experience, but the emotions of several kids ran high. At then end of the tour (3 hours), we got to go into a hall and have a survivor actually speak with our group. I think I could have sat and listened to him for more than a month....the stories. May God continue to bless Sarah's studies and create an enjoyable path for her to follow. Hope you are feeling better as well!!! Pray for you daily.
Beth Kayser <randybethmo@yahoo.com>
- Monday, May 10, 2010 12:27 AM CDT
Hey Sarah,
I was looking through lunch boxes for school next year, and saw this. Obviously I thought of you (you'll see when you link up...I promise it's not spam!). I don't quite get how it's a lunch box, but it's still pretty cool.
http://www.800buy.co.uk/uppic/1586/1596iol1/tin-lunch-box--lunch-box--tin-19.jpg
Joyce <Joycethealpaca@gmail.com>
- Thursday, May 6, 2010 8:19 PM CDT
You got that right, Becky. It is good to see you flipping the thoughts around to positive, as difficult as that is to do right now. You are enduring all of this so that you will be well and with Sarah for every other step in her life. I can't believe she will be going to high school! What a great experience both of you will have during those years! Now, rest some more - like we have all told you - you did way, way too much the other day and you just didn't realize it. Now that you do, take it easy, Lady Jane!!! There are so many more days to come when you will be bustling around like before. Praying.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Wednesday, May 5, 2010 10:13 AM CDT
High school? Oh where the times flies...
Trine
- Wednesday, May 5, 2010 8:05 AM CDT
What a beautiful house and beach!! I am so glad you all three got a chance to enjoy it. Maybe, just maybe, you could get another chance to spend some time there after you have recuperated and you would be able to enjoy it even more without the worry of upcoming surgery. Wow, that beach is just beautiful - you know, I love the ocean - who could not?
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Monday, May 3, 2010 9:29 AM CDT
Wow. That home looks amazing. And everywhere one looks, God is so obviously there. Such peace and tranquility. I am so glad you were blessed to have had the experience together and that Sarah shared in the last day of it.
Sue G
- Sunday, May 2, 2010 4:26 PM CDT
Sarah
Congrats on your award... well deserved, I would say. ... and pretty neat that you have made in impact on the teachers in such a short time in Manteo!!!
xxoo Mrs. Pam
- Saturday, May 1, 2010 5:40 PM CDT
Way to go, Sarah!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!Congratulations!
Guerrina
Ledyard, CT - Wednesday, April 28, 2010 3:54 PM CDT
Sarah, from what "High Maintenance Aunt Debbie" is telling us, you are an amazingly sweet, strong and skilled nurse to your mom. Great job. I hope Snowy is doing his part also. I know your mom will be just fine in time and that will be such a gift to you. Take care of yourself, also and keep up the good work in school.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Monday, April 26, 2010 9:55 AM CDT
Becky, My thoughts and prayers will be with you tomorrow.
Lisa <lisahlisah973@yahoo.com>
- Thursday, April 22, 2010 2:01 PM CDT
Yeah Sarah!! Congrats.
lisa <lisahlisah973@yahoo.com>
- Thursday, April 22, 2010 2:00 PM CDT
Be very proud of yourself, Sarah! That is a great accomplishment. I know you will be such a great help to your mom as she recovers. You and Snowy need to get the Nurse Jane Fuzzy Wuzzy role going good and strong. Once again, way to go at school.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Lousi, MO - Thursday, April 22, 2010 12:24 AM CDT
Congratulations Sarah! It must feel great to be recognized for your hard work!
Sara <startjumpin@gmail.com>
WI - Thursday, April 22, 2010 9:16 AM CDT
Way to go, Sarah! You are amazing! Love to the Smith's
Linda in Pittsburgh
- Thursday, April 22, 2010 7:50 AM CDT
Yay Sarah!! Great job. You are doing so well, woohoo!
Lesley
Cape Cod, - Wednesday, April 21, 2010 10:17 PM CDT
Congratulations, Sarah! Those awards are a BIG DEAL! You should feel very proud of yourself! My prayers are with you all as Becky goes into surgery. God blessings be upon you.
Liz Wicks
- Wednesday, April 21, 2010 3:32 PM CDT
Congrats to Sarah! What a great honor to be 1 of only four out of 100 to get that award!
And Becky, I take my camera to Public school award ceremonies! Most parents did at my daughters ceremony a couple weeks ago. Keep taking that camera and pictures! I am sure Sarah will keep getting awards. :)
Jill N
FL - Wednesday, April 21, 2010 1:51 PM CDT
Hi Sarah ! Congrats on the good grades. And I'm really happy you will be writing the journal entries. You have a lot of fans :)
Pam Tuey <PTuey24680@aol.com>
Redlands, CA USA - Tuesday, April 20, 2010 7:52 PM CDT
Thanks for the recipe! And congrats on making the honor roll Sarah!!!! We never doubted you were a smarty-pants at heart!!!
Keely <knoche197@yahoo.com>
Colorado Springs, CO USA - Tuesday, April 20, 2010 6:38 PM CDT
AN INVITATION TO ALL PRAYER WARRIORS
The Prayer Warriors at Angel_Wings
are holding a Prayer Vigil on Monday,
April 19th, between 8-9 pm EST for
all the families on our Angel_Wings
Prayer Lists and our Angel families
of children, teens and adults who
have gained their angel wings.
Thank you for joining us!
Angel_Wings Prayer Warriors
AngelWingsRemembers
MJ/Angel_Wings and AngelWingsRemembers
MJ/Angel_Wings <marijeighn1@gmail.com>
- Sunday, April 18, 2010 9:09 PM CDT
Sarah,
I'd love to hear stories of some of your favorite memories of growing up. Do you remember much of being on the road with your family? If you do, what were your favorite towns/churches? Are you still in contact with anyone you met?
(And, as a mother and a stickler for automobile safety, I would also love for you to wear your seatbelt correctly - if it doesn't fit, you can buy an adapter at any auto parts store to make it more comfortable.)
Stefanie
St. Louis, MO - Sunday, April 18, 2010 5:57 AM CDT
Yes, Sarah, yes, please do write something for us! With all that is happening, will happen and has happened in your life lately, it would be great to hear your perspective. Also, you may find this a good place to unload your heart or ask some questions or just chat about a day at school. Any words from Sarah would be such a treat. So, please let us hear from you! We can't have the site SHUT DOWN!!!!
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Thursday, April 15, 2010 9:31 AM CDT
Yum! Thanks for the recipe. I shall be making that this weekend.
I look forward to Sarah's entry!
Jill
FL USA - Wednesday, April 14, 2010 7:16 AM CDT
Confessions. Threats. Gee, we have turned down a dark and windy road here on Sarah's Spot :P
If you're looking for topic ideas, I know I'd love to hear your perspective on school, what country you would love to be born in if you had to choose another country (basically, where would you most love to live/the culture), your favorite words, and thoughts on whether gummy worms or SOUR gummy worms are better.
Adios!
Joyce <Joycethealpaca@gmail.com>
NY USA - Tuesday, April 13, 2010 9:42 PM CDT
Hey Everyone,
I know this is kind of weird but I think that God wants me to share these Bible Verses with you so here it goes.
John 16:29-33
29Then Jesus' disciples said, "Now you are speaking clearly and without figures of speech. 30Now we can see that you know all things and that you do not even need to have anyone ask you questions. This makes us believe that you came from God."
31"You believe at last!" Jesus answered. 32"But the time is coming,and has come, when you will be scattered, each to his own home. You will leave me all alone. Yet I am not alone, for my Father is with me.
33 I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have OVERCOME the world."
That's all,
Taylor
Taylor Cecil - mms P.E. 7th period <grtlcecil@embarqmail.com>
manteo, nc usa - Sunday, April 11, 2010 8:14 PM CDT
Well, I guess we can muster up bit of 'forgive and forget' for your wayard actions, ladies. At least you owned up to the error of your ways. ;o) Happy Reading!!!
I am sending you oodles of hugs, praises and prayers.
Angel Smiles,
Ms. Polly @ Angel_Wings Prayer Warriors
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Angel_Wings
Heart of North America, ND USA - Saturday, April 10, 2010 6:17 PM CDT
Love, love, LOVE the new Sarah's Spot header! Sarah, you are soooo grown up and lovely!
Have a great weekend!
Linda Wellendorf <lmwultimt@aol.com>
Youngstown, OH - Saturday, April 10, 2010 11:41 AM CDT
Well, I must say, I am SHOCKED! I am so glad you have rectified the situation and are now proud library card carrying Manteo residents. You do have a gift for leading us on......Love the new look of Sarah's Spot also. Have a good weekend reading all those books I am sure you check out immediately.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St.Lousi, MO - Saturday, April 10, 2010 9:21 AM CDT
I wish you could get a message to the lady looking at the house,,,,,,anytime you get an ESTIMATE, ALWAYS add about $20,000 to the price. If she doesn't, she's going to regret it...because it ALWAYS happens that way. You get the estimate, it always runs a gooood bit more. When you question the contractor, you get an answer of: (1) I told you it was just an estimate or (2) my cost went up...good luck on it though and best wishes to you on your journey!
cathi
atmore, al - Friday, April 9, 2010 4:31 PM CDT
My goodness Becky, Sarah takes my breath away. She just glows.
Thinking and praying.....
Cheryl and Angel Haley <cherylvincent4@aol.com>
- Thursday, April 8, 2010 3:20 PM CDT
Thinking of you all, so glad you could all be together for Easter, and that Sarah was part of such a special day. Continued prayers for you all.
Linda Cornelius <lwcornelius@yahoo.com>
- Wednesday, April 7, 2010 1:31 PM CDT
Oh yum, Sarah! I must have that recipe. My 15 yr old daughter could whip it up for us.
Yes, Glad Sarah is in the waiting room this time. Wish no one in your family was. Hope you have a good spring break Sarah. My daughter's was last week and it was only in the low 70's, too cool for the beach. 80's this week, figures!
Jill
FL - Tuesday, April 6, 2010 10:28 AM CDT
Hey Sarah or HOW rather,
How goes your laziness? Mines good, I slept until 10:30am yesterday and today. I'm so happy! Guess Why, because it's warm and my family and I might go take a walk on the beach! Yay yay! Don't you just love warm weather? Anyways, what's up in your world besides reading, writing, and laziness? I'd like to read your books. I've written one too though it isn't very long, it's part of a series, hopefully, called Stolen: The Heart of Paris(Book 1). What do you think, too corny? I haven't started on the second book yet because cheerleading went on for so long but now that it's done maybe I can start. I don't think I'll be cheering next year. Anyway, just thought I'd check in with you, love the website and the pics by the way, e-mail me or answer in the blog if you feel like it but you don't have to.
Taylor
Taylor Cecil - mms P.E. 7th period <grtlcecil@embarqmail.com>
manteo, nc usa - Saturday, April 3, 2010 11:05 AM CDT
Oh my goodness, Sarah is as beautiful on the outside as she is on the inside.
With this new journey you will walk together, you will become even more connected with that sweet, sweet child than you are now. I honestly envy the relationship you have with Sarah; not that the relationship I have with my own daughters is not good, there is just something unexplainable by words between you and sweet PGC!
Hoping this most holy of days is a good one for you Becky and that as we celebrate the ressurection of God's only Son, you feel comforted and loved - because you are by so, so many. You are a very special woman, Becky, and your family is extremely lucky to have you in their lives. Deb Mathy
Happy Easter, Smith Family
Green Bay, Wi, - Friday, April 2, 2010 9:13 AM CDT
I pray that you and your family have a blessed and joyous Easter.
THIS DAY'S GREATEST GIFTS
We can't change the past…
But we can gather up
It's lessons and move on,
Stronger and wiser.
We can't control the future…
But we can send our dreams
Ahead of us
To help prepare the way.
We can live each moment…
Heart and soul,
And cherish this day's
Greatest gift…
The gift of now.
May peace with the past
And faith in the future,
Gently guide you through each
Precious moment of Today.
MJ/Angel_Wings
MJ/Angel_Wings <marijeighn1@gmail.com>
- Friday, April 2, 2010 8:44 AM CDT
The photo you sent is gorgeous!! It is on the HVF facebook, and by today, should be on Haley's CB page, and also the HVF official website.
Thank you again for allowing us access to your beautiful girl!!
Cheryl and Angel Haley <cherylvincent4@aol.com>
- Thursday, April 1, 2010 7:29 AM CDT
I just moved and have not had internet. Becky....my prayers are with you. I am so sorry....
alyssa...www.caringbridge.org/ca/bennettboys <sabiemc@aol.com>
Boston, MA USA - Wednesday, March 31, 2010 9:51 PM CDT
Sarah was made perfectly for the task at hand.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Wednesday, March 31, 2010 11:20 AM CDT
Becky,
I know you will be fine. You have motivated so many of us to try and model the relationship you have with your family and we all have much more to learn!! It is like your own Ministry of Moms. My sister had Ovarian Cancer at 36, went through a hysterectomy and chemo and has been fine for 3 years. We will be telling the same story about you in 2013!!!!! Sending love and light your way.
Lisa <lisahlisah973@yahoo.com>
- Tuesday, March 30, 2010 4:34 PM CDT
Sarah, you are a strong girl but I am so sorry your beautiful gentle heart has been hurt because of the cancer your mom now faces. But she will not face it alone, absolutely not. You will be such a comfort to her, along with your wonderful dad and wise older brother and a certain white, fluffy, adorable, college-degreed doggie. More prayers for you, Sarah.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Tuesday, March 30, 2010 2:01 PM CDT
I was the one who asked before why Sarah cries at school even though people are nice to her. Maybe if I'd had a mother like you to talk to I would have been able to share my feelings and cry too. I'm sorry I made that sound like a bad thing. You should be proud to have a relationship like that with your children. Good luck to both of you.
isuck
- Monday, March 29, 2010 11:57 PM CDT
I'm really sorry about your diagnosis. I thought it would turn out to be nothing like usual. The fact that you didn't feel sick or anything shows how early it was caught. Was the same with my mom's colon cancer. She never would have known she had it if she hadn't gone in for routine tests, and she is fine now. Maybe all the past experiences with Sarah's cancer will help you be better prepared for what is to come, but hopefully your road to recovery will be smoother. I hope that Sarah and the rest of the family are taking the news well. We know that you guys are strong and will get through this.
kristen
beaumont, tx - Monday, March 29, 2010 4:29 PM CDT
What a blessing to have comfort from a mom to a daughter and vice versa. Sarah will know exactly what you will need and will lovingly give it in the upcoming days. Praying for you specifically also, Sarah.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com >
St. Lousi, MO - Monday, March 29, 2010 3:57 PM CDT
Your journals from Sarah's treatment days always leave me speechless - I continue to be amazed at the strength and courage and miracle of it all. Sarah, like someone else said - shine on, your a beacon of God's light to all who know you. Happy Weekend.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com >
St. Lousi, MO - Friday, March 26, 2010 10:29 AM CDT
Hi there! Happy Spring!
Sarah is are an amazing young lady and a beautiful, valiant Daughter of God. Let your little star
shine for all to see! ¢¾
Angel Hugs,
Ms. Polly @ Angel_Wings Prayer Warriors
Ms Polly @ http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Angel_Wings
Heart of North America, ND USA - Wednesday, March 24, 2010 7:57 PM CDT
Great job Sarah on everything...your studies...projects..your socialization..your evolving into a beautiful young lady. Many blessings,
Linda Cornelius <lwcornelius@yahoo.com>
- Sunday, March 21, 2010 1:15 PM CDT
thinking of you
www.caringbridge.org/visit/girlonwheels
Karen www.caringbridge.org/visit/girlonwheels
- Saturday, March 20, 2010 1:18 AM CDT
Awesome! I love doing well on school projects! I'm sure you are very happy!
Sarah <startjumpin@gmail.com>
Sheboygan, WI - Friday, March 19, 2010 4:24 PM CDT
HOORAY, Sarah!!! Glad you doing so well in everything at school. Have a great weekend.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebsc.om>
St. Louis, MO - Friday, March 19, 2010 12:45 AM CDT
FANTASTIC, Sarah!
Mrs Pam
- Thursday, March 18, 2010 9:39 PM CDT
Great job Sarah! You were rewarded for a job VERY well done!!
Hugs,
Connie F-G <cdlfg@cox.net>
LaVista, NE - Thursday, March 18, 2010 2:03 PM CDT
Hello Becky & Sarah,
It's been a month since I touched base with you. The pics are beautiful as usual. I truly enjoy keeping up with you guys. We in Missionettes are planning a Spring Lock-In for April 16/17. I pray it will go smoothly and wish you still were a part of us. Pray for me. I am the new coordinator for Our Missionette Club and have a lot of ideas. I need God to help me reel them in. We send our love & prayers to you all.
Rosalie Richardson <roseycheeks@nc.rr.com>
Benson, NC USA - Tuesday, March 16, 2010 5:38 PM CDT
AN INVITATION TO ALL PRAYER WARRIORS
The Prayer Warriors at Angel_Wings
are holding a Prayer Vigil on Friday,
March 19th, between 8-9 pm EST for
all the families on our Angel_Wings
Prayer Lists and our Angel families
of children, teens and adults who
have gained their angel wings.
Thank you for joining us!
Angel_Wings Prayer Warriors
AngelWingsRemembers
MJ/Angel_Wings and AngelWingsRemembers
MJ/Angel_Wings <marijeighn1@gmail.com>
- Tuesday, March 16, 2010 12:07 AM CDT
I think it's great that the only doctor Sarah has to see is a Family Doctor!! Sorry about the ear infection etc. but in a weird way, that's good news. All the best, Sarah is in my thoughts and prayers.
Robin Brunet <robinb@start.ca>
Bradford, Ontario Canada - Tuesday, March 16, 2010 11:24 AM CDT
What a beautiful story about the back rub. One never, ever to forget. Sarah, your mama may need a back rub today. Hope you remember how much you helped her heart all those years ago. Snowy, she may need an extra special snuggle also.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Tuesday, March 16, 2010 10:20 AM CDT
Oh, Miss Sarah! Those photos are just beautiful! You are very photogenic, too.
I can't say I'm delighted to read about the ear and yeast infections BUT....I will lift prayers for complete healing and no side effects from the medications for you.
I am sending you oodles of hugs, praises and prayers.
Angel Smiles and blessings,
Ms. Polly @ Angel_Wings Prayer Warriors
Ms. Polly @ groups.yahoo.com/group/Angel_Wings
Heart of North America, ND USA - Saturday, March 13, 2010 8:11 PM CST
SARAH
hope the meds do their things quickly, and that you will feel much chipper very soon.
My outfit today was a combination of yours... bibbers and a beret. I cleaned my garage this morning, and filled six trash cans. I got tickled with all the yellow pages phone books that I kept finding... more than a dozen!!! I don't have a place for them inside, so I just stash them somewhere in the garage,
and obviously forget where they are. All of them were still inside their plastic delivery bag, so I didn't really know what they were until I opened them... Pitiful, huh? glad I wasn't discovered and thought to be a hoarder!
prayers and love from Mrs. Pam
- Friday, March 12, 2010 4:47 PM CST
Hello Smith clan! Just wanted to ask you to pray for my baby grandaughter...(my first). She was born march 9th, a week early by c section. She was perfectly healthy at first and got an apgar of 9. When they went to bring her to my daughter (who also has had a hard time), the baby was found to have breathing difficulty. They came the next day with a neo natal team from Mobile to Brewton, Al to pick her up. She is the NICU at USA Womens and Childrens hospital in Mobile,AL. She has pulmonary hypertension, which is serious, but she is not a severe case. My daughter has only seen her about 20 minutes since she was born and has just gotten out of the hospital today. She is on her way to see her now. She won't even be able to touch her due to the baby being stressed when bothered. They have to turn her oxygen up when she gets stressed. We aren't sure how long she will be there. She weighed 7 lbs, 6 oz at birth and is very pink and moves aorund, lift her head and is even sucking a pacifier under her oxygen hood. i would appreciate all prayers for she and my daughter...thank you!!!! Hope all is ok with your mammo, i have been there before too...prayers for you too! love to all, cathi
cathi coon
atmore, al - Friday, March 12, 2010 2:02 PM CST
Feel better, Sarah. Not a fun time, at all. Snowy must be on the Nurse Jane Fuzzy Wuzzy duty, I'm sure. Glad all it will take is some rest, snuggling with Snowy and a few antibiotics and you will be just fine and feeling great!
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Friday, March 12, 2010 10:38 AM CST
Awww, Sarah! Ear infections are no fun! Tyler has had so many ear infections that have had no symptoms...I just don't get that. Anyway, feel better!!!!
Keely <knoche197@yahoo.com>
Colorado Springs, CO USA - Friday, March 12, 2010 9:22 AM CST
I hope you feel better soon Sarah! It is VERY hard on a girl to not be able to talk.... Happy Birthday Becky!! That looked like a very yummy breakfast!
Keely
Colorado Springs, CO USA - Wednesday, March 10, 2010 4:29 PM CST
I do not have those little salt and pepper shakers, so I guess if breakfast was served to me I would have 2 huge shakers on the tray, which would topple it over entirely! Yours looks delicious!!
Lesley
Cape Cod, MA - Wednesday, March 10, 2010 10:44 AM CST
"Our Promise To You"
We may not hit your site each day
and days can turn to weeks...
But know that you are in our hearts
and of you to God we speak.
For you, Dear ones are on our list
of prayers we say each day
For strength to fill your weary heart
for grace to fill your day.
for light to fill your darkest hour
for peace throughout the night
Please know that we are standing by
through each step of your fight.
And should you need a special prayer
please come to us our friend
for Angel Wings will pray with love
and love will never end..
MJ/Angel_Wings <marijeighn1@gmail.com>
- Sunday, March 7, 2010 7:34 AM CST
Hey yeah
Thank you Becky, Mary and Al! your kind words ment a great deal to me. I just wanted to show that we can turn our lives around even if we start out on the wrong path on lives and have children young and be good parents!
I am proud of who I have become. I am proud to say I am picking up my daughter from kindergarden. I get odd looks at time but that is ok. I now am a christen. I am glad. I am glad I raise my daughter alot different then I was.
Anyhow, this is Sarahs site. I just wanted to say thank you once again.
Emma
- Saturday, March 6, 2010 5:05 PM CST
Way to go Sarah!!
Thinking of you guys, and praying, as always.
Cheryl and Angel Haley <cherylvincent4@aol.com>
- Saturday, March 6, 2010 1:04 PM CST
Congrats, Sarah on a terrific report card. You must have one heck of a great teacher working with you in the prior year for this transition to public school to be so smooth.
Cath Young <jamichdapa@yahoo.com>
- Saturday, March 6, 2010 11:32 AM CST
This is a comment for Emma (hi Becky and Sarah!) Emma, congratulations on your upcoming wedding and on waiting until you're married. I think that's awesome! Just wanted to tell you that.
Al
Edmonton, Canada - Saturday, March 6, 2010 0:54 AM CST
I too have raised my 5 kids as you have. Fortunately for me, they have a strong group of friends who have had the same upbringing. But, I have been saddened recently. Many of them are getting married at early ages...21, 22, 23, 24. They have gone from their parents homes, to college and then right into marriage. They have not learned nor experienced living on their own, making their own way, paying their own bills and learning how to support themselves. I so wish they would wait until they are 27-28 before getting married. It's hard...living a life as virgins and getting married way too young or .....the alternative. As a mother of 5, I have spent many moments reflecting on this
Jessica <elaurenc@aol.com>
norfolk, VA USA - Thursday, March 4, 2010 8:02 PM CST
Way to go Sarah! Congrats on your good report card :)
You know, school was easy for me... except in math. That was my nightmare! I was reknown for not liking math (at all!), it looked like chinese to me! I always had to work extra hard in this subject... until grade 9, when I finished top of my class (even though I was out of school most of the time). Not sure what happened then (well, I had a pretty good teacher to start with!), but from that moment, maths became much easier...
So don't give up, the "math lightning" might strike you as well ;)
Keep up the good work!
Renee - marysienka.blogspot.com <renfb@animail.net>
Canada - Thursday, March 4, 2010 5:51 PM CST
Sarah, what an all around intelligent person you are! Good grades, good sense, great upbringing. You are an amazing young lady, and even though I have never met you, I am proud to know you through your sites. I believe God does indeed have special plans for you! You are amazing! Hugs to my favorite Smith family!
Linda
Pittsburgh, - Thursday, March 4, 2010 8:02 AM CST
I have to comment too. I am almost 20 years old and I never had a boyfriend or sex. I am not insterstered in boys and I want to wait to have sex until I am married.
And I do agree with you Becky 14 years old girls are closer to childhood than adulthood. I remember when I was 14, I thought I was a big girl almost adult, but looking back I was more a 'child' than adult. But 14 - you can still very moderst :)
I know I don't comment often, but I do still follow your site.
And Sarah congrats with you awesome grades-
trine
denmark - Thursday, March 4, 2010 2:27 AM CST
What a beautiful picture of Sarah!
angela conklin <conoil@yahoo.com>
graham, nc - Wednesday, March 3, 2010 5:50 PM CST
Sarah and Emma - you have it right on all levels and from such a different perspective. Both of you hold your heads high and hold on tightly to what you have learned and believe. Way to go, ladies.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Wednesday, March 3, 2010 12:29 AM CST
Hey yeah
I have been reading sarahs site for almost 2 years. I have not posted before but this one made me. I wanted to say i am glad sarah has not had sex. But at the same time not all of us have been raised the way sarah has been.
I had sex for the first time when i was 13 years old. I become pregnet out of it. I did finish school when i was pregnet. It was very hard. But i was not the only person in my high school. My shool had many who where like me. We even had a day care on shool grounds. once my daughter was born and 3 weeks old she could go to that day care. i brought her to school with me everyday. It was not easy getting both of us ready. I was 14 by then. I have now graduated from high school. I am now graduating from college this year. My daughter and i live on our own i support us. I work. I am now 20. My daughter is going on 6. I am going to be married this summer and he plans on adopting her. I have not had sex with him.
I just wanted to let you know not all kids who have kids turn out bad. and we do not always know what is right or wrong. I sure did not at the time. I do now. But i do not regret and would not turn back the clock. Even if things would have been alot!! easier.
Emma
- Wednesday, March 3, 2010 11:57 AM CST
There is nothing old fashioned about saving yourself until after you are married. I believe that is the way it should be. I have taught my son that if he thinks enough of a young lady and himself that he will wait until he is married. You get my thumbs up on this!
Cindy Wright
Tennessee, - Wednesday, March 3, 2010 11:04 AM CST
Outstanding, Sarah! It shows you are an excellent student, and Becky was an excellent instructor in getting you ready to take on public school.
It's okay to take your time in deciding to answer the young man's phone call, but remember he was probably shaking in his boots to make the call!
Always in my prayers!
Liz Wicks
MN - Tuesday, March 2, 2010 5:40 PM CST
Way to go Sarah!!! Congrats on the great report card!!
Norma <njcmema@earthlink.net>
Benson, NC USA - Tuesday, March 2, 2010 11:02 AM CST
Congratulations and excellent work at school, Sarah. That is quite an accomplishment and you should be very proud, especially that math grade! Keep up the good work and have fun along the way.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Tuesday, March 2, 2010 9:46 AM CST
Wow, Sarah, that is a remarkable report card! I don't even remember seeing an "A" on too many of my report cards. Smiling with you!!!!
mrs Pam
- Monday, March 1, 2010 5:25 PM CST
He called!! HAHAHAHA! That's great! Maybe later we can move on to actually answering the phone....there's no reason to hurry that step though....I hope you have a great week at school this week! Congrats on having a wonderful report card!
Keely
Colorado Springs , CO USA - Monday, March 1, 2010 11:45 AM CST
loved the 2004 update... you are so cute, Sarah!!!
xxoo Mrs. Pam
- Saturday, February 27, 2010 6:33 PM CST
Have you considered signing up Sarah for Camp Boggy Creek? (to try something different than vjgc)
The north florida cancer session is July 8 - 14
The south florida cancer session is July 27 - Aug 2
Camp Boggy Creek is a permanent, year-round facility near Orlando where children between the ages of 7-16 with chronic or life-threatening illnesses can come at no charge to them or their families.
Boggy Creek gives campers a chance to normalize their lives by being with children battling the same illness. "Everyone is just the same as me!"
www.boggycreek.org
There are also camps in England and Ireland!
www.holeinthewallcamps.org
Camp Boggy Creek
- Wednesday, February 24, 2010 10:36 AM CST
Love you and continuing to pray for you even though I haven't signed in so much. Hang in there Sarah---I know you will. We're WARRIORS :)I'll keep checking in on you.
Khalita Duke Peds BMT Severe Aplastic Anemia <khalita@yahoo.com>
Lexington, NC - Tuesday, February 23, 2010 10:52 PM CST
My girls used a particular term for BOYS-----"friendboys", mainly until the age when the words were reversed--"boyfriend" became more appropriate. When was that? I think about jr. year of HIGH SCHOOL! It made it easier for dad and mom to keep track! Blessings, Sarah!
Betty Lingle
Mercer, Pa USA - Monday, February 22, 2010 7:03 PM CST
Go Sarah (heh...I hope this young man does not know about this journal, he will be BLUSHING!!!!).
On a side note, please keep my goddaughter Ciara in your prayers, she is once again fighting to survive in the PICU. Thank you...
alyssa...www.caringbridge.org/ca/bennettboys (my godchildren) <sabiemc@aol.com>
chapel Hill, NC USA - Monday, February 22, 2010 4:56 PM CST
What a hoot! You go girl! I remember my 2 girls at your age and the boys calling. Mom and Dad may as well get used to it........you are such a cutie-patootie!
Becky, don't fret yet! It gets worse........wait 'til the first one comes calling at the front door!
Good to hear ya'll are doing well in your new home, new town and new church! Blessings.........
Love, hugs and ladybugs,
Linda
cp: dalescancerpage
Linda Resinger
Farmington, MO - Saturday, February 20, 2010 7:06 PM CST
Well, now I'm really anxious to see whether or not he calls!!! Hmmmm...interesting. We did know it wouldn't take long....if you've got, you've got it! LOL! I'm glad Sarah had a good OT report and that she seems to be doing better with school each week!
Keely <knoche197@yahoo.com>
Colorado Springs, CO USA - Saturday, February 20, 2010 11:49 AM CST
Wow, Sarah, I'm so glad your mom wrote about you and your CB journal today. Now that Mom has a new (relatively) blog and I have a new computer and lost all my saved bookmarked sites...well, I keep forgetting to come over to see what's going on with you. I don't think I've been here since you first started in the new school.
I am thrilled to read that you are doing so well in school. And making friends. And having boys notice you. And--wondering if perhaps you are noticing them back?
There is so much to embrace in life. And you have such a good head on your shoulders, wisdom beyond your age, and so many talents. I do hope you embrace not only all that life offers you, but what you offer life.
Please know that I think about you all the time, whether I make it over here or not. Although I have never even met you, I feel I have "watched" you grow up and mature. And I am very proud of the young woman you've become.
I can't wait to see you become a young lady next.
Blessings to you, now and always.
Sue G
- Friday, February 19, 2010 9:55 PM CST
How exciting Sarah! My bit of advice to you is this. Remember that boys are a lot like books. Though the cover may look real nice, it's the content that counts. And, while we're on the subject of books, a boy that likes to read (especially the Bible!) is definitely worth be-friending. Of course, considering your upbringing, you probably knew these things already! Have a great weekend PGC!
Dianna in Louisiana
- Friday, February 19, 2010 1:58 PM CST
What's your perspective on this, Sarah?
Guerrina
Ledyard, CT - Friday, February 19, 2010 1:53 PM CST
and what did the beautiful Sarah tell this boy?
Jill N
FL - Friday, February 19, 2010 7:26 AM CST
AN INVITATION TO ALL PRAYER WARRIORS
The Prayer Warriors at Angel_Wings
are holding a Prayer Vigil on Friday,
February 19th, between 8-9 pm EST for
all the families on our Angel_Wings
Prayer Lists and our Angel families
of children, teens and adults who
have gained their angel wings.
Thank you for joining us!
Angel_Wings Prayer Warriors
AngelWingsRemembers
MJ/Angel Wings and AngelWingsRemembers
MJ/Angel_Wings <marijeighn1@gmail.com>
- Thursday, February 18, 2010 10:33 AM CST
that was a good report, Sarah!
mrs Pam
- Thursday, February 18, 2010 10:22 AM CST
Great news, Sarah! So glad to read that all is working out with and at school! Way to go, Bella!
Guerrina
Ledyard, CT - Thursday, February 18, 2010 10:21 AM CST
That is great to hear!
My 9th grade daughter seems to have TOO many textbooks to lug around. I don't know how she manages the weight. I can barely pick the bag up! And squatting and standing up is not my strong point. Glad no one is watching me try...
Glad things are going well for Sarah. She is a trooper!
Jill N
Tallahassee, FL USA - Wednesday, February 17, 2010 7:50 PM CST
So thankful for good news. Proud of you, Sarah! :-)
Aunt Deb
dmantik <rmantik @verizon.net>
- Wednesday, February 17, 2010 5:22 PM CST
Hope this week is better than last and it just keeps going that way until - BAM - it is summer break!!! So, how is it going? How is Gym class?
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Tuesday, February 16, 2010 4:30 PM CST
Hi Becky and Sarah, I came over from the Smithellaneous site. I started a new juinor high in 7th grade and I understand the tears. IT is hard to feel like you don't know anyone, don't know where your going and what is going on in class. I never liked the feeling that everyone was looking at me because I was the "new girl". I could deal while I was there but at the end of the day, for the first few weeks, a good cry was very cleansing. Of course as you are seeing, it does get better and I am sure you are finding that many of the kids are friendly and want to help. You look so pretty and fashionable in your pictures. I am sure things will get better with time. I agree with the other poster, my son is in middle school and the dances are more about hanging out--in fact most girls dance with girls because many of the boys are too shy to dance and of course there are a lot of line dances. I imagine when you find your "group" you will feel more like going.
Nicky
Nicky
ny, ny - Monday, February 15, 2010 4:37 PM CST
THE MEANING OF TRUE LOVE
Helen Steiner Rice
It is sharing and caring,
Giving and forgiving,
Loving and being loved,
Walking hand in hand,
Talking heart to heart,
Seeing through each other’s eyes,
Laughing together,
Weeping together,
Praying together,
And always trusting,
And believing,
And thanking God
For each other…
For love that is shared
is a beautiful thing-
It enriches the soul
and makes the heart sing!
HAVE A WONDERFUL VALENTINE'S DAY
MJ/Angel_Wings
MJ/Angel_Wings <marijeighn1@gmail.com>
Lawrence, Ma - Sunday, February 14, 2010 6:21 PM CST
Hi Sarah, You're going to be OK. I teach middle school. It is hard to be new, and have no one to "really" talk to all day. Makes for a long day. I will be praying that someone will take that step, to get to know you, and include you. Once that happens the tears will go away. From my neck of the woods, a dance is a socialization time. You just show up, and most dancing is group dancing. Only those "going out" really dance, everyone else hangs out. Maybe by next dance you will be ready to hangout. It just takes time. Middle school years are just so in-between...you are not a little kid, but you are not a young adult either...just stuck in between. It will get better. You will do fine with your studies, probably well above most. Just stand tall, smile, and be yourself. Many prayers.
Linda Cornelius <lwcornelius@yahoo.com>
- Friday, February 12, 2010 9:29 PM CST
Wise choice on the dance, Sarah. There will be so many more to come. Also, I hope gym class was okay. It was never one of my favorites but there were always a few different "sports" that we did that appealed to me more than others - loved archery, golf and table tennis - I liked some of the gymnastics - pommel horse was my favorite. Hope you find a couple you enjoy. As far as math was concerned....it always left me discombobulated - just didn't like it - made every effort to avoid it when I could finally choose my classes. Hang in there - you are a smart girl and it will "click" with you very soon. Have a good weekend - hug that cute Snowy dog for me.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Friday, February 12, 2010 4:29 PM CST
Thinking of you
www.caringbridge.org/visit/girlonwheels
Karen www.caringbridge.org/visit/girlonwheels
- Thursday, February 11, 2010 9:22 PM CST
Sarah, hope your cold is beginning to move out and let you breathe freely again - like you needed IT during this adjustment period! Rest well and with peace of mind & heart. School's not going anywhere!
Guerrina <waters7989@yahoo.com>
Ledyard, CT - Thursday, February 11, 2010 1:55 PM CST
It wasn't because you were *newbies* to the area...the wind that is. Here in NC, we had 50-60 mph winds yesterday. Lots of power outages were reported. I've never seen such strong wind.
angela <conoil@yahoo.com>
Graham, nc - Thursday, February 11, 2010 12:15 AM CST
I am so sorry to hear about Erik.
Hope Snowy doesn't need to go outside in all that wind.
I have visions of Toto landing in Oz.
Mrs Pam
- Thursday, February 11, 2010 9:15 AM CST
Sarah . . . hope you are feeling better. The extra day off from school will give you some time to relax, rest and catch up on some reading :o) The schools here have been closed all week . . . we got about 26 inches of snow last Friday/Saturday and another 8-12 inches Tuesday/Wednesday. Needless to say I've seen enough snow for this year and am looking forward to spring (only 37 more days!) Hugs and all good wishes being sent your way.
Linda
Pittsburgh, PA - Thursday, February 11, 2010 8:42 AM CST
I have followed Erik for a short time now. I thought of you and Sarah many times. Thinking of him "breathing Heaven's air" is a joyous thought and so appropriate for what he endured lately. I know your heart hurts and your mind tumbles about with this news. All we can offer are prayers for Sarah's continued success and health and to Erik to ask for his help in keeping it just that way. Heartfelt wishes to his family. His smile and faith will be sorely missed in this world. Lucky, Lucky Heaven! God speed, good gentle man.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Wednesday, February 10, 2010 12:43 AM CST
I am so saddened to hear that. I remember you writing about him before.
I know it is wonderful how great it was that he spent so long in remission and fought the disease so bravely but damn it sucks too - he fought for so long and yet it wasn't enough.
Big hugs to his family and yours as well. Losing one of the team is a reminder of what your family lived with and what lingers around.
Sara
Canada - Wednesday, February 10, 2010 12:09 AM CST
Becky,
Just a suggestion, but you should think about loading Sarah up on Vitamin C and Zinc. As a former homeschooler, who then went into a private high school, I remember that first year being very hard in terms of illness. First of all, schools are such breeding grounds for germs, especially ones that Sarah hasn't been exposed to before. Secondly, the emotional and physical strain of adjusting to the changes can wipe an immune system to nothing as well. Stress hand-washing and antibacterial gels and do everything you can to boost that immune system, it'll help physically and emotionally.
Again, just a suggestion!
Ellie
Ellie
Litchfield, CT - Wednesday, February 10, 2010 8:19 AM CST
Ok, people are going to bash me for asking, but why does she keep crying when everyone is so nice to her? Is the work too much or is she just used to being homeschooled? She sounds very intelligent from her writings so I wouldn't think she'd have much of a problem keeping up. I want to pray for her but just don't understand what the problem is. I was tortured every day in middle school and didn't cry.
NK
- Wednesday, February 10, 2010 0:37 AM CST
Haven't heard much about Nathan lately. How is he doing at school?
beth reilly <elsare29@hotmail.com>
havertown, pa - Tuesday, February 9, 2010 5:46 PM CST
glad you are feeling better.
mrs Pam
- Tuesday, February 9, 2010 4:26 PM CST
Feel better soon Sarah! ♥
And Sarah's mom, keep us updated :)
Olivia
Rome, Italy - Tuesday, February 9, 2010 12:43 AM CST
Oh, my - I missed the entry about Sarah feeling ill - I hope she is much better today! Sarah, you have been through a lot lately, you may just need a good rest in bed and a snuggle from Nurse Jane Fuzzy Wuzzy Snowy. I hope that will do the trick.
mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Tuesday, February 9, 2010 12:42 AM CST
Sarah
sure hope you are feeling much better today!!
prayers and love from Mrs. Pam
- Tuesday, February 9, 2010 8:48 AM CST
Becky,
I guess I taught 100s of children to read, and, you are right, it is one of the most rewarding aspects of teaching. One of my former junior kindergartners became a professor of American Literature at Yale and now Columbia.... she gave me a copy of her book that was published for her doctorate, and inscribed that I was the one who taught her to read. Wasn't that something? However, the book is beyond my comprehension!!!!!!
xxoo Mrs. Pam
- Monday, February 8, 2010 5:35 PM CST
Becky, you will never, ever be finished with teaching Sarah. That is the joy of being a mother - we continue to teach long after they have left the nest - the subjects continue to change - but the teaching continues. Right now, I am advising (which is teaching) my daughter how to be a first time mom. So, wipe your tears, there are great lessons to be learned by Sarah and you will be her one and only teacher.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Monday, February 8, 2010 2:29 PM CST
Sarah, hope you are enjoying your weekend and your week at school was a better than the last and so it will go, just keep getting better and better. A dance coming up? That will be fun. What will you wear?
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Saturday, February 6, 2010 11:00 AM CST
I have one daughter already out of school, and another in middle school. There is definetly no asking to a middle school dance. They all just show and mingle and chat amongst themselves. In fact, I am not even sure there is "dancing" involved!!
Tammy Armiger <Priorityonecb@aol.com>
Clayton, NC USA - Friday, February 5, 2010 3:37 PM CST
Now granted, this was like 15 years ago and in Texas (so I'm sure things could be different now in North Carolina) but there was definitely no asking involved in middle school dances. Everyone just went with their friends. Now a boy might ask you to dance while you were there (assuming he was willing to put up with the catcalling from his friends while he was doing said asking) but that was about it. So.....take that for what it's worth, I guess. Either way, you should go Sarah! It will probably be kind of lame but at least you might meet some people. And a little dancing never hurt anyone.... :)
I'm glad you've had a better week! Enjoy your weekend!
Keely <knoche197@yahoo.com>
Colorado Springs, CO USA - Friday, February 5, 2010 11:22 AM CST
Hi Becky and Sarah,
To answer the question about the boys asking the girls to the Dances while they're still in Middle School. From what I remember doing my Middle school years the answer is yes.
Chase <mcwilemon@msn.com>
Larkspur, CO USA - Friday, February 5, 2010 9:42 AM CST
Hey Sarah,
I was just listening to one of my favorite songs, and think that you might love it too, so I'm passin' it on. It's called Who I Am by Jessica Andrews. Enjoy!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jd9zYKLepCw
Joyce <jdadekia@skidmore.edu>
- Thursday, February 4, 2010 11:05 PM CST
Hey Sarah! Loved your entry. I think you should do a weekly update on how you're doing. Also loved the pictures of you in your hat...how did you grow up so fast?? (I know your Mom probably asks that question every day!)
njc
Benson, NC USA - Thursday, February 4, 2010 7:51 PM CST
Sarah
that is quite a full schedule! Loved your "jolly!" comment.
Mrs Pam
- Thursday, February 4, 2010 5:25 PM CST
Sarah, your update was wonderful and wonderfully entertaining. You write so well I felt like I'd returned to junior high (before they were renamed middle school). NOT so sure I liked the accompanying remembered feelings! You have more interesting classes and reading choices than I did for sure! I do remember back then (and the same now) kids just show up with friends at the dances. It's really more socializing than it is dancing. Hoping your endurance continues to strengthen and I look forward to more updates by you! Just love your storytelling!
Guerrina <waters7989@yahoo.com>
Ledyard, CT - Thursday, February 4, 2010 3:40 PM CST
In St. Louis, all the kids just show up at the dance. The locals call the dances "mixers" (we're not from St. Louis originally, so this is all new to us, still).
Stefanie
St. Louis, - Thursday, February 4, 2010 10:25 AM CST
Up here in MA the kids all just show up for 7th and 8th grade. Even in high school most of the kids show up and a very few are formally 'together' as they are already boyfriend and girlfriend. So, it's pretty laid back as far as dances go. I think the middle school dances are fun for the kids, but there tends to be a bit of drinking before the highschool dances and some of the kids show up drunk, which puts a damper on things. Well... for my kids it did :)
Lesley
Cape Cod, MA - Thursday, February 4, 2010 9:33 AM CST
I was out of town and when I got back, Voila! The entry I've been waiting for! Thanks for the update by the girl herself :) Are there lots of cute boys in your school? Keep us updated on that! Tell your Mom not to worry, I think you have been well-raised ( or raised well? ) and thank goodness those boys seem to have good taste!
Pam Tuey <PTuey24680@aol.com>
Redlands, CA USA - Wednesday, February 3, 2010 10:44 PM CST
I'm not surprised there's a boy that likes you Sarah, your gorgeous and so special!! All the best.
Robin Brunet <robinb@start.ca>
Bradford, Ontario canada - Wednesday, February 3, 2010 11:16 AM CST
I love your writing Sarah! You are so funny :) I hope yesterday went well for you and I am happy (maybe) that you already have the boys lining up for you! I always knew they would....haha! I'm sure your parents are less than thrilled about this but hey, they'll get over it :)
Keely <knoche197@yahoo.com>
Colorado Springs, CO USA - Wednesday, February 3, 2010 10:51 AM CST
Thanks for writing about your day, Sarah! I really enjoyed it! And the boys are already lining up, huh? :)
Amanda Jennings <amanda@southpawcentral.com>
Avondale, AZ usa - Tuesday, February 2, 2010 12:59 AM CST
Thanks, Sarah - that was fun to read. Hope we hear more from you. Math and Science could become favorites?!!?? Maybe not, and that's okay too.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Tuesday, February 2, 2010 12:12 AM CST
I felt like I went through a day of 8th grade with your descriptions! My daughter is in 9th grade and after 3 years of middle school, Language arts became "English" this year! And Social Studies is "History" in 9th grade here. I am always calling them the wrong names, and she is quick to correct me.
I hope you continue to make friends and enjoy your classes(at least a little). You will be glad to have this experience "under your belt" when June gets here!
Keep writing, you certainly have your mom's gift in that area.
Jill N
FL - Tuesday, February 2, 2010 10:48 AM CST
Sarah, I love reading what you write. I always find myself chuckling at your descriptions. I'm not sure if that's what you intend but that's what happens :)
School sounds very busy and it must take a lot to keep up with the new pace. I bet Snowy waits for you every afternoon. Does your mom bring him in the car to pick you up?
Do they have dances at your school? In Massachusetts they do at the 8th grade level. Like once a month or so. Some kids go, some kids aren't interested. I was one of those who passed on THAT delightful experience-lol.
Anyway, thanks for giving us an idea of your day. It brings me right back to my own 8th grade days. I found that every year got better as I moved up the ladder to and through high school, with 7th and 8th grade being the hardest emotionally for some reason. It's just a hard age. No matter what.
I moved right before 7th grade and it took me a while to find a friend. I was kinda quiet and studious. In our town, the 7th and 8th grades were IN the highschool so it was crazy for me to get adjusted. I could not find my way around at all!
But you sound good and a sense of humor is the best defense!!
Lesley
Cape Cod, MA - Tuesday, February 2, 2010 10:37 AM CST
So proud of you, Sarah. I really enjoyed your writing about school. Each day will be better for you and soon you'll look forward to going. Let us know when the play is being performed and of course, pictures. Your writing was excellent to me. I really enjoyed NC History and even taught it for a year. That was really fun. I believe that was the year the POWs from Viet Nam came home (before your time) and we wrote to the NC ones and got letters from some of them. A local POW visited our class several times. Take care and keep smiling.
Ann Martin
Roanoke Rapids, NC - Monday, February 1, 2010 10:28 PM CST
Sarah-
You are quite a wonderful writer, and I love your dry sense of humor. I wish I didn't live all the way across this big ol' country so that maybe one day I could meet you, but until that day in 80 or so years when we meet in Heaven, I'll just have to read your witty stories and remember to live boldly for the Lord, just like you. Oh, and as I sit through math and science, I'll think of you struggling along with me. Slendid!
I hope you have a wonderful week!
Robin <rmparrish@adelphia.net>
CA - Monday, February 1, 2010 8:44 PM CST
Sarah
I realized the lingo has changed immensely since your mom has been in school, but trust me, as the mother of 5, it really makes sense!!!! English is now language arts. You no longer study the english language, but it is expanded!!!!! European literature, etc is in the mix. Very exciting!!!!! History is now social studies. You have the privledge to study other cultures, government, economics and much more. How I wish my education as a young child was expanded to include what you are exposed to!!!! Enjoy........
Lauren Callahan <elaurenc@aol.com>
Norfolk, - Monday, February 1, 2010 6:55 PM CST
How was Monday? It was so good to see that cute ball of white fluff sitting next to you as you read! What a scary time for dog and owners! Hope this week continues to be a good one for you, Sarah. I can't believe you got up and did Charades - exactly how did you act out Myth Busters?
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Monday, February 1, 2010 12:18 AM CST
Hi Sarah! Hope you have a great day. I'm looking forward to reading your entry.
Pam Tuey <Ptuey24680@aol.com>
Redlands, CA USA - Monday, February 1, 2010 9:20 AM CST
Oh Sarah. I just cried thinking about your sweet little self crying in school!!! I know adjusting to something new is hard but you are so brave and I know you can do it! Just take your time, and before long going to be school won't be so discombobulating. I hope you have a happy and tear-free week!
Keely <knoche197@yahoo.com>
Colorado Springs, CO USA - Sunday, January 31, 2010 9:42 PM CST
My dear Sarah, How proud I am to see how far you have traveled since you left us in Missionettes. I know starting in a new place is hard & scary but I know you have a strong will and God is on your side. Look how far you have come in such a short time. You are a strong & courageous young lady. When I see how God is getting you through the hard times it reminds me of the time when He told me He had grand plans for your future. If He has plans for you then He will always be there beside you to give you the courage and strength to do all that He asks of you. Remember that and know that I am still praying for you and sending you tons of love from Smithfield. God Bless you my dear Honor Star. You were one of my first here and always will be very dear to my heart. I love you,
Mrs. Rosalie
Rosalie Richardson <roseycheks@nc.rr.com>
Benson, NC USA - Sunday, January 31, 2010 12:09 AM CST
(((Hugs))) Sarah. With a personality like yours I bet school will soon be one of your favorite places to be. You are doing great so far!
Kris Herbst <kris@ercolina-usa.com>
Bettendorf, IA - Saturday, January 30, 2010 7:08 PM CST
Wow Sarah! I usually lurk pretty often on your site, though, I'm just reading that you entered a "real live" (as my daughter would say!) junior high school. I just wanted to put my two sense (or cents!) in and let you know that you are so, so, so, SO not alone in your anxiety. I'll let you in on a little secret. Everyone feels that way! Yep, from the most popular, on down.....every teenager goes through what you're feeling....... that stress ....... yikes, my stomach turns just remembering it! Of course, not every girl is lucky enough to have all of the most AWESOME support that you have ...... then again, you're not just some ordinary girl, you are the most SPECIAL, most SPECTACULAR , the SUPEREST, DUPEREST, TOTALLY COOL, Princess Groovy chick! Girl, you got through cancer! With Jesus on your side, Junior High School, teenagerdom, all of that and everything that comes with it, will be a breeze..... you just wait and see ..... the Lord has great things planned for you! I'm beyond honored that I get to be a witness to your journey!
Dianna
in Louisiana, - Saturday, January 30, 2010 6:30 PM CST
Sarah, great job this week. I will be easier next week, for sure. I hope you are finding interesting and fun people and things and teachers and subjects and events at your new school. I also hope you are keeping a watchful eye on that Snowy puppy and keeping him cuddled up and warm and dry and explaining how adventures in the snow are not that great inspite of his name!!! Snowy, Snowy, Snowy, what were you thinking? Wish you could tell us.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Saturday, January 30, 2010 10:56 AM CST
Thinking about you made me feel braver this week, Sarah. You're a great inspiration. Have a great weekend! Jane
Jane Snell Copes <jscopes66@hotmail.com>
Inver Grove Heights, MN USA - Friday, January 29, 2010 9:49 PM CST
Sarah, you are one brave young woman! There is nothing more difficult than doing what you are doing. So glad there is support for you at your new school, and I know you will feel so much better about it all in a really short time. As to the dreaded PE class, I am wondering if there is another way to get the credit or be able to take the class at a different time. Compared to what you have already conquered in your young life, this is a challenge you are more than capable of handling. My hat is off to you!
All my best wishes and prayers are with you.
Liz Wicks <lgwicks@charter.net>
MN - Friday, January 29, 2010 8:55 PM CST
we had pj day here too,lol. well my son's kindergarten class did anyway. second time this yr, 1st time was because the whole school thought of a 100 things they were thankful for. this time i am not too sure the reason, think she said something about learning about night and day and it would be a perfect way to do the half day.
becky m
buffalo, ny - Friday, January 29, 2010 11:36 AM CST
I'm so happy for her! The weekend will give her a nice rest :)
Lesley
Cape Cod, MA - Friday, January 29, 2010 10:14 AM CST
Hang in there Sarah. Sounds like things are getting better all ready. I can share a story of when I started a new job about 15 years ago. The first few days were so tough. I didn't know what to do, everyone was too busy to keep me busy and I sat through work thinking I had made a huge mistake. I cried every night. My husband said "Just give it three weeks". I couldn't fathom three weeks! B
But lo and behold, by the three week mark I had settled in and was finding my way. The same advice was given when I was nursing my son ... it was so hard and I wanted to quit. Again my husband said "give it three weeks". I went on to nurse my baby for 19 months.
Sarah you are well on your way to three weeks. I hope every day gets a bit easier. It sounds like you have some great people on your side. I for one have all the faith in the world that you will find your comfort zone soon.
TGIF Sarah!!! :)
Paige
Franklin, MA - Friday, January 29, 2010 5:52 AM CST
Tell Sarah we are proud of her and the big move to middle school. I am sure she will be great there. You guys take card and tell Daddy Steve we said hello.
Wayne Cummings <lumbeefamily@nc.rr.com>
Clayton, NC USA - Thursday, January 28, 2010 7:21 PM CST
Hey Sarah,
I just wanted to know that you are not alone with the whole "being overwhelmed by switching schools" thing. I switched from one public school (in a worse town) to another (better school/town) and that whole first year I was getting my feet under me. The stuff that they were learning, I hadn't learned (it was just different material), so I felt stupid. The social dynamic was a lot different.
Each month was a bit better, though, and by the next year, I was completely up to speed on everything. Those friends that I made in those middle school years remain my very best friends today (4th year college student), and I ended up loving the school I went to and the opportunities I had.
So, my advice to you is just to keep/not stop thinking that there is a bright light at the end of the tunnel for you, too. We are all rooting for you!
Joyce <Joycethealpaca@gmail.com>
NY - Thursday, January 28, 2010 3:47 PM CST
Hi Sarah,
We have been away so just getting caught up on all the goings on! I am glad things are getting a little easier. You will soon look back on it and say "what was I worried about?" Transitions are always hard and you are being a real trooper, as always. I am grateful for your helpers and all your mommas - at school and home!
Blessings,
Anne <annecase1@gmail.com>
Freelton, ON Canada - Thursday, January 28, 2010 2:12 PM CST
Sounds like you have an awesome support team at school...an upstairs and a downstair mama! Very cool!
I can't wait to see pictures of you taken where you are actually smiling about going to school...a true, beautiful, sincere Sarah smile. That's when I'll know you are really enjoying what you are doing. I don't expect it today or tomorrow but hopefully soon.
Make sure you utilize all those opportunities and the helpfulness that everyone is offering.
Prayers and hugs,
Connie F-G <cdlfg@cox.net>
LaVista, NE - Thursday, January 28, 2010 11:10 AM CST
HOORAY!!!! I am so relieved that school is becoming a much better place for you to be, Sarah! You seriously have taken on quite a challenge and are facing it head on and with great style and grace. You are going to be so glad you stayed the course and rode it out and all those other "sayings" because you are going to LOVE your new school and friends and experiences, not to mention all the neat and great stuff (I could have found a better word but
"stuff" is a fun word, sometimes) you are going to learn. I am so proud of you, once again! Enjoy the rest of the week and the weekend, especially.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Thursday, January 28, 2010 9:26 AM CST
Sarah, it is so wonderful to see you smiling and to read of all the people at your school to help you make this change! May your heart be full of joy & peace today and may your endurance continue to increase!
Guerrina
Ledyard, CT - Thursday, January 28, 2010 9:01 AM CST
You really are brave, Sarah. You inspire me to want to be brave...:)
Kim Waggoner <W8k@aol.com>
Kingston, TN - Thursday, January 28, 2010 6:47 AM CST
So happy to get Today's Update! Sarah, are you going to write an entry?
Pam Tuey <PTuey24680@aol.com>
Redlands, CA USA - Wednesday, January 27, 2010 10:20 PM CST
Glad that today was a better day for you, Sarah!!
mrs Pam
- Wednesday, January 27, 2010 10:18 PM CST
I thought about Sarah a lot today! So glad here that everything went well!
Traci
Hunker, PA - Wednesday, January 27, 2010 8:37 PM CST
Happy to hear that Wednesday was a much better day!!!
Proud of you Sarah!!!
Hugs,
Connie F-G <cdlfg@cox.net>
LaVista, NE - Wednesday, January 27, 2010 7:08 PM CST
Hang in there girl...it's not so bad, you have just never experienced this!!! My kids (5 of them) went through 12 years of public schools and have lifelong friends. Please give it a chance! Change is always hard! Don't worry about grades and being the best...just be yourself and you will be fine!
Mom and Dad.....the math is killer...I suggest a tutor!
Lauren Callahan
NORFOLK, VA USA - Wednesday, January 27, 2010 7:08 PM CST
No tears before OR after school? Best news I've heard all day. :)
Amanda Jennings <amanda@southpawcentral.com>
Avondale, AZ usa - Wednesday, January 27, 2010 5:48 PM CST
Yay for Wednesday!!!
Lesley
Cape Cod, MA - Wednesday, January 27, 2010 4:47 PM CST
Dear Sweet Sarah,
I hope the rest of your first school week gets better and better! You are going to have tons of friends before you know it! It seems like you already have a few possible friends lining up! You are a brave, beautiful, amazing, smart and wonderful girl! I only wish I knew you in person! You remind me so much of my Sarrah!
Love, Hugs & Prayers!
Lizz
Lizz
TX - Wednesday, January 27, 2010 2:49 PM CST
Hi Becky -
I'm sorry Sarah's having a tough time with her first week of school. I don't have any advice on that front, but I wanted to offer help with the math if you think that might be useful. I'm getting ready to take the GRE's and have been brushing up on basic math skills. Plus I live with three engineers who are obnoxiously good with numbers and absolutely love reminding me of the things I've forgotten. I can't promise that I could help with whatever Sarah's working on in school, but I'm certainly willing to try.
I hope the rest of your week goes well, Sarah!
Kristina <kristinacreek@yahoo.com>
Fairbanks, AK USA - Wednesday, January 27, 2010 1:46 PM CST
Hang in there Sarah. I know going to school is scary, but with your positive can do attitude and your faith in God you will be doing great very soon. I will however continue to lift you up in prayer.
Hope today rocked...
Hugs from Iowa,
Marjie <jmr@mahaska.org>
Oskaloosa, IA - Wednesday, January 27, 2010 1:11 PM CST
Hello Smith family! I have been around checking on you and your big move, just haven't signed in...partly due to us moving ourselves...well, our store and it's been sooo crazy around here. Hopefully we will get moved in a couple of weeks and get settled in our new place. Also, my first grandbaby will be here the middle of March and i have been doing lots of shopping. I just had an idea that may help Sarah get adjusted to not only a new way of life, but a new school and new friends...why not arrange a sleep over for her and invite some of the girls she is now talking with. If they were at her house meeting you and Steve and being on HER territory, it could possibly make it easier to go back to school the next week. They could play games, watch movies, talk....an talk, and talk....pop popcorn and just relax without others in the room or teachers giving out directions and homework, just a girls week end. I changed my daughter's school when she was around 12 and it was terrible..she cried everyday too. i WISH I had of thought about this for her, would have made things a lot better. At least if they could spend a night or two with her at her house, she would feel more relaxed and then by Monday morning, when they all went back to school, they will be like old friends...just a thought, hope you have a great week!
cathi coon
atmore, al usa - Wednesday, January 27, 2010 12:24 AM CST
Sarah, you can do it!! Chin up, head high, and march into that classroom and just be YOU! You're awesome!
Cheryl <cebene@hotmail.com>
Warner Robins, GA USA - Wednesday, January 27, 2010 11:33 AM CST
Sarah, here's hoping the third day is easier and that you are able to get to know some of your classmates. It will be okay, give it time, pull that amazing strength up that you found when you beat up on cancer and won! Everyone in that school would be amazed if they knew what a warrior they now have in their presence. Smile, honey, it will get better and better.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Wednesday, January 27, 2010 10:30 AM CST
Your story made me cry, remembering how I would have felt, and how my children have felt starting at a new school. I remember my son coming home from school saying, "all the kids have made their friends already" - - broke my heart! It's going to be ok, and with each day it will get better and better, I promise!! Lots of prayers coming your way!
Vicky
Charles City, IA - Wednesday, January 27, 2010 9:47 AM CST
Oh Sarah- what to say to make you feel better, I know it's hard but remember what you have been through with your cancer treatments was much more difficult than a day in school. I'm glad to know you already have some friends. Sending you lots of hugs & prayers.
margie miller <margiemm54@aol.com>
winter springs, fl - Wednesday, January 27, 2010 9:44 AM CST
Hang in there Sarah, you are a sweet girl and also don't forget you kicked cancer's butt and sent it running, so you can do this too!!!! It's sound like you have some nice people surrounding you and helping you in this new journey!! Good Luck!!
Shannon
Lincoln, NE - Wednesday, January 27, 2010 9:42 AM CST
Dear Sarah,
I'm so sorry this week has been stressful and overwhelming for you. Junior high is not easy in the best of circumstances but to be a new kid in the middle of the year has to make it a bit more difficult. I still think you'll find your niche real soon. It sounds like you have great teacher support and you WILL find a friend. Remember, God's time, not ours.
As for math...I was told to STOP helping in 5th grade because I was messing her up. Since then, we've had great math teachers who love to teach so she can go in and get help from those who truly know what they are doing. In fact, she was in school early today to get help. Find out when your teacher can help and go utilize his/her skills. Much better for you than us math illiterate parents completely messing you up!
Hugs and prayers just for you.
Connie F-G <cdlfg@cox.net>
LaVista, NE - Wednesday, January 27, 2010 8:32 AM CST
Sarah -- hang in there! Both of my children had a hard first few days in middle school but it got better each day and week. From my middle school mommy days, what you are experiencing is completely normal. It may be an old saying, but truly take one day at a time. It sounds like you have some nice teachers and students who care. Praying that each day gets a little easier!
Karen Cathey <kcathey@mcguirewoods.com>
Charlotte, NC - Wednesday, January 27, 2010 7:09 AM CST
Hiya Sarah,
I really hope today goes better for you; it's been a long time since I was at school but I remember only too well how tiring and emotional the whole process of making new friends and coping with the workload is. You'll be settled in before you know it, just keep smiling and being your sweet self and I'm sure you'll look back on this soon and be so happy you've come through it. After everything you've faced, you definitely have the inner strength to do this, not to mention the family backup! My thoughts, and lots of hugs, go with you xxx
Becky <mysticalnight@hotmail.com>
UK - Wednesday, January 27, 2010 3:06 AM CST
Sarah's second day of school outfit looks stunning. Make sure you wear it often because if any of the kids at school have taste, they will introduce themselves to you and the lovely outfit will reveal the sweet personality of the girl wearing it.
Things will get better. When we think things are hard, we get through them even though we didn't think it at the time. Then things get hard again but you get through. Life threw cancer and Sarah told it to go bye bye. Life threw Sarah a new school and new town and Sarah will face that challenge.
Bonne chance!
Sara
Canada - Tuesday, January 26, 2010 11:08 PM CST
You can do it, Sarah. You can do it. J
Jane Snell Copes <jscopes66@hotmail.com>
Inver Grove Heights, MN USA - Tuesday, January 26, 2010 9:27 PM CST
Sarah, it will be better. I went to Guam to teach and knew only one person. I had to learn new teachers, students, and culture. I did enjoy it and God will bring you through this, too. I am so proud of you. Watching the video I feel honored that Jim and I have gotten to watch you grow and what a beautiful young lady you have become. Will be praying for you. I agree that you need to get involved in activities and not just classes. Love you!
Ann Martin
Roanoke Rapids, NC - Tuesday, January 26, 2010 9:03 PM CST
Stay strong Sarah, like almost anything, it will get easier with time and practice. All us adults promise!!!!
Ellen Robertson <hellen177@gmail.com>
Westland, MI - Tuesday, January 26, 2010 7:12 PM CST
Hi Sarah,
I am trying to type this through my tears--- I am so sorry that your first couple days did not go as well as you had hoped. I know it can be discouraging, overwhelming, and just plain scary. I am a high school teacher, but we are a 7-12 building. I see new kids coming in all the time. Please trust me when I say that it will get better. You will make friends, connect with special teachers, and even enjoy your classes and learning new things. Once you get more comfortable, look for opportunities to join clubs or organizations that interest you. Academics (although important) are just part of middle/junior/high school. Hang in there Sarah--I hope, wish, and pray with all my heart that each day will be better.
Dana
Dana Schindele <dschindele@holdingford.k12.mn.us>
Holdingford, MN USA - Tuesday, January 26, 2010 7:06 PM CST
She's not just cute - she's drop-dead gorgeous. Sarah, honey, just hang in there. Soon everyone at that school will know how wonderful you are, and it will feel much more comfortable and not nearly so scary. First days are always hard. You are one terrific chick and you're gonna knock their socks off. Just you wait and see. You're still my hero and I'm praying for you. God bless.
jenny
ID USA - Tuesday, January 26, 2010 6:53 PM CST
Leaving the nest is rough, isn't it. I spent the first year of middle school eating lunch alone because I was put in a lunch period with one person from my grade and 500 from the grade ahead of me. At first I hated it, but as I experienced everything from the outside, looking in, I realized that I gained a unique perspective on school, the other students, and life itself. I saw everything as a whole, without being consumed by the minute-to-minute drama that comes when you are a part of everything. Being a part of a group is wonderful, but this time of transition might give you a chance to become more confident in yourself without the pressure of being involved in all that goes on around you.
It's tough, but God will use you if you let him. Sarah, you are 4 years younger than me, but you seem so much more mature than everyone my age. I admire you and your confidence so much.
John 16:33
"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."
Robin
CA - Tuesday, January 26, 2010 5:51 PM CST
Oh Sarah, I'm sorry your week has been so stressful/upsetting. I wish I knew some magic words to say to make you feel better. Would a hug suffice? ((Hugs)) I'm glad someone invited you to sit with them at lunch. Every time we would change our class schedules each semester, that was one of the biggest things I worried about -- would I have someone to sit with at lunch. I'm glad you did. Also, I totally hated gym. I have no athletic ability whatsoever. I remember in 6th grade we played softball that entire spring and I managed to go the whole time without ever taking a turn at bat. I kept casually wandering to the back of the line. :)
Amanda Jennings <amanda@southpawcentral.com>
Avondale, AZ usa - Tuesday, January 26, 2010 5:39 PM CST
I hope you had a great day today, Sarah! You looked so cute and stylish in the photos from yesterday! Just keep being you and things will work out fine. :)
Jill N
FL - Tuesday, January 26, 2010 4:04 PM CST
Sarah, it sounded like you handled yourself very well yesterday. I agree with your mom...HUGE HUGS to the girl who asked you to sit with her and her friends. My own daughter told me that the hardest thing when we moved here in 6th grade was having to ask to sit with someone at lunch. A girl did ask and even though she didn't turn out to be a great friend, she was kind enough in school and that made our own daugher much happier that year. Lunch is probably one of the toughest parts of the day.
I highly encourage you to see the movie, To Save a Life." We saw it Sunday and it was excellent! It's got a limited release so not sure where you might find it in your area. It was a youth group activity for our church.
HUGE HUGS to you Groovy Chick!
Connie F-G <cdlfg@cox.net>
LaVista, NE - Tuesday, January 26, 2010 2:46 PM CST
Hi Sarah, It will only get better! Everyone has those feelings, even adults,and it's normal. Make sure you write some entries for us and let us know how it's going. I'm betting that you will be having lots of use for that daybed & trundle before you know it. You'll make lots of friends.
Pam Tuey <PTuey24680@aol.com>
Redlands, CA USA - Tuesday, January 26, 2010 9:31 AM CST
Sarah, you said the exact words to yourself I was thinking as I read this journal post. If you can get through all you have gotten through in your young years, you CAN DO THIS! Each day will get easier. Each day you will meet more and more people and one day, without you even realizing it, you will feel like you have always gone to that school. It will have become as familiar and comfortable as your fuzzy pink chair! I was never a fan of gym class either - and North Carolina History sounds great - you will love your computer class, I'm sure. How about an English or literature class? It will get easier, I promise.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Tuesday, January 26, 2010 9:03 AM CST
It's Tuesday morning and I'm praying you'll notice the day feeling easier and going by faster. I remember my transition to Jr High and, as many have mentioned, it does get better, easier to handle. May you feel a fresh wind moving you along!
Guerrina Hernandez
Ledyard, CT USA - Tuesday, January 26, 2010 8:41 AM CST
Sarah ... you made it! Each day will get a little easier. Also, both of my children had what I lovingly term "middle school meltdowns" at some point at the beginning of middle school (where they cried, wondered how each day could be so long, etc.), so what you experienced was very, very normal (and needless to say, some days will be better than others). Although it's an adjustment, it truly does get easier. It already sounds like you have made some new friends, which is great! Hang in there!!
Karen Cathey <kcathey@mcguirewoods.com>
Charlotte, NC - Tuesday, January 26, 2010 7:46 AM CST
Oh sweet girl, I am so proud of you! I know that must have been overwhelming for you and I know in time you will settle in with no problems. I am so proud of your courage and your bravery. It's so wonderfull that you can talk to your Mommy about so many things. Sarah, did you meet any new friends??? Was the school lunch as scarey as it was in my time??
LOve
Nancy
Nancy
- Monday, January 25, 2010 11:21 PM CST
Awww Sarah, that was tough. Tomorrow will be better. I disliked gym the most too. It took me a bit of time before I found that 'special friend' when I moved at your age, but when I did----hooray! I felt a little lonely until then. Did you notice any cute boys? Not that you need to answer that question :)
Lesley
Cape Cod, MA - Monday, January 25, 2010 10:24 PM CST
Oh, sweet Sarah. tomorrow will be better. I promise.
Jane Snell Copes <jscopes66@hotmail.com>
Inver Grove Heights, MN USA - Monday, January 25, 2010 10:14 PM CST
Glad that first day is behind you, Sarah. Adjustments are tough, especially when it comes to first days at new schools. Hang in there. You have many well wishers and a whole virtual support team at an invisible desk beside you!!!
Ann O.
Louisville, KY - Monday, January 25, 2010 9:28 PM CST
Thinking of you today! Can't wait to hear about it!
Christine Milczarek <cmilczarek@cox.net>
AZ - Monday, January 25, 2010 5:15 PM CST
I have been thinking about you today, Sarah! Hoping and praying for great reports about your new school. What did you have for lunch? Which was your favorite subject and teacher? Was it FUN?!!!!
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Monday, January 25, 2010 12:10 AM CST
I am thinking about you today Sarah!!! I hope you have a wonderful day!!
Keely <knoche197@yahoo.com>
Colorado Springs, CO USA - Monday, January 25, 2010 11:05 AM CST
Thinking of you today in this new journey. Have a blessed day.
Janet
St. Louis, MO - Monday, January 25, 2010 9:12 AM CST
Thinking of you on this Very Important Day! We are proud of you and will look forward to report of the first day!
Love, Aunt Deb and the Guys
dmantik <rmantik @verizon.net>
- Monday, January 25, 2010 8:18 AM CST
Thinking about you this morning, Sweet Sarah! I know you're going to be such a blessing to your new school and new friends! I have prayed for you this morning and I hope you have a wonderful day!
Suzanne
Athens, GA United States - Monday, January 25, 2010 7:34 AM CST
Have a wonderful first day. I will be thinking of you, and remembering you in prayer.
Linda Cornelius <lwcornelius@yahoo.com>
- Sunday, January 24, 2010 8:49 PM CST
Sarah, I'm a senior in high school and have been in the public school system for 13 years. I love it, but I can tell you that God will open so many opportunities for you to minister to students who are hurting and confused in the midst of a challenging time of growing up. You have matured ahead of your time, and I know God has great plans for you at this new school. Don't ever forget that you are the beautiful young woman God created in his own wonderful image.
Robin <rmparrish@adelphia.net>
CA - Sunday, January 24, 2010 7:45 PM CST
Sarah, I hope you have a great first day of school tomorrow!
Traci
Hunker, PA - Sunday, January 24, 2010 9:52 AM CST
Having been with the Smith family for years now, watching this video was so very powerful and beautiful. A miracle ... a perfect way to put it. So happy for you all. Good luck dealing with the normal things like new schools, etc. I know you feel blessed to have such a worry :)
Paige
Franklin, MA - Saturday, January 23, 2010 3:33 PM CST
Sarah- I am praying for an absolutely awesome first day of school for you on Monday. I am also praying for Becky to be able to let you go and not worry :) You are precious and everyone will soon discover that... sending love from Smithfield!
Lora Millard <lmillard@nc.rr.com>
Smithfield, NC USA - Saturday, January 23, 2010 12:23 AM CST
Sarah- I am praying for an absolutely awesome first day of school for you on Monday. I am also praying for Becky to be able to let you go and not worry :) You are precious and everyone will soon discover that... sending love from Smithfield!
Lora Millard <lmillard@nc.rr.com>
Smithfield, NC USA - Saturday, January 23, 2010 12:22 AM CST
Sarah, just a quick note to wish you well as you start your new school on Monday. I am completely confident that your wonderful personality and sense of humor will be a magnet to attract the sweetest and the brightest that Manteo teens have to offer.
You may feel like the new girl this week, but to God who knew you before you were formed, you have always been a part of this plan for your life. So, enjoy the moment, make good friends, and keep growing physically, spiritually, and emotionally.
You are very special, Sarah. It has never been the circumstances of your life that made you special. It has been the way in which you handled those circumstances that made you who you are today.
And you are something else!!!!
Sue G
- Saturday, January 23, 2010 3:36 AM CST
Been following this site since almost the beginning and the power point was beautiful.
Cindy Wrgiht
Tennessee, - Thursday, January 21, 2010 8:34 AM CST
I posted on Smithellaneous about the video but I could not be silent here on the same subject. Sarah, you truly are a miracle - however, that miracle occurred because of your prayers, your faith, the will of God, the great and learned people He placed exactly where they were needed, but most of all, that miracle occurred because of your strength and will and pure soul and purpose in life and your family (that includes Snowy, you know!). Congratulations, Sarah. Thank you, Sarah. You have taught me much.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com >
St. Louis, MO - Wednesday, January 20, 2010 11:33 AM CST
That powerpoint is absolutely beautiful and Sarah, though beautiful as a child, has grown into an absolutely gorgeous young lady. I've followed her from the transplant days til now and she truly is a miracle I am grateful to "know".
Danielle
Los Angeles, CA USA - Wednesday, January 20, 2010 11:27 AM CST
I was wondering what day Sarah would start her new school! How exciting, and a little scary - that's okay - it will all be good and feel fine in a short time - for both Sarah and Mom! We will be praying. I am so excited for both of you - this is the best decision and you will see that quickly. Sarah you are going to have so much fun! Get active in some organizations, as suggested before. That is what my daughters both did when then transferred from a small private Catholic school into a very big public high school. They loved it. There was so many opportunities available for them. They have both said it was the best thing that happened to them educationally and socially. Just become a part of the school and the school will become a part of you. I am glad Victoria is visiting - now, I get to go watch the video
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Wednesday, January 20, 2010 11:14 AM CST
Good luck at school, Sarah! Your new friends will be lucky to know you, once they meet you...if you follow that!! :)
P.S. Wondering if you've ever visited Sydney's site as her story so reminds me of yours...two very sweet girls who have battled so hard and so successfully!! caringbridge.org/fl/sydneysims
Mary <ziggyfamily@aol.com>
- Wednesday, January 20, 2010 11:04 AM CST
Hey Sarah! I was never the new kid (my parents still live in the house I grew up in) so I don't really have good advice for you, but I just know you will do great!!!! You are such a sweet and caring person that people will just have to love you! Good Luck! Have fun!
Keely <knoche197@yahoo.com>
Colorado Springs, CO USA - Monday, January 18, 2010 4:36 PM CST
Congratulations on the transplant anniversary! I am so excited about the new school. It looks fabulous and not at all like a normal school building. What a great thing to have the school rated so high. You may can tell I taught school for 14 years. You'll do find, Sarah. Just keep smiling and going forward. You go, Girl!!!!!
Ann Martin
Roanoke Rapids, NC - Saturday, January 16, 2010 9:26 PM CST
Hi Sarah and family! My name is Sarah and I'm a long-time follower of your blog but a first-time commenter. I'm a college student who works with special needs kids. I also follow more than 200 blogs, and I'm sending a very special message to all the blogs I follow: YOU have the chance to be part of a miracle!
If you are a member of Facebook or know someone who is, please take the chance to do something incredible!
Chase Community Giving is awarding $1 million to 5 charities! The Gwendolyn Strong Foundation is working to find a cure for Spinal Muscular Atrophy - and they could use the money!
Fast Facts:
- SMA is the #1 genetic killer of infants under the age of 2
- 50% of those diagnosed will not live to see their 2nd birthday
- kids with SMA lose the ability to sit, stand, walk, talk, eat, swallow, and breathe
- 1 in 40 people is a carrier
- the National Institute of Health says that SMA is the #1 CURABLE disease if given research funding
- right now there is NO cure and NO treatment
- right now SMA is a DEATH SENTENCE
Want to change that? Vote for the Gwendolyn Strong Foundation on the Chase Community Giving app on Facebook! You have five votes to tell the world that you want a CURE for SMA!
Tell your friends and blog contacts - let them know they could be part of a MIRACLE - be part of a CURE - and give these kids a FUTURE!
Please tell everyone you know about this! We have an extraordinary opportunity to be part of this CURE - and these kids DESERVE one!
Thank you!
Sarah
- Saturday, January 16, 2010 3:58 PM CST
Hi, Sarah!
Congrats on the new school. I know it seems daunting to start out at a new school and be the "new girl." And if you dwell on that you will most likely fret unnecessarily. I'm sure you have been introduced to many new girls in your life, and I bet you were warm, inviting and cordial. So, my advice to you is to just be yourself and be open to the people who are warm, inviting and cordial. They are the people you will want for friends...because they are most like you, with qualities that are admirable and important.
Don't try to be anyone else. Just be you. Be real. Be natural. You have everything you need inside you already to face any situation or person. God equipped you mightily when He made you. All you need to do is tap into what is naturally there...and you will shine.
Because YOU are more than enough!!!
Sue G
- Friday, January 15, 2010 9:07 PM CST
congrats. it's been awhile since i've checked in.
Linda Sidorski <lsidorski@sbcglobal.net>
- Friday, January 15, 2010 9:02 PM CST
Whew. Switching schools is a whammy. Here are my two itty bits of useful advice.
Whenever I am really nervous about meeting tons of new people, I just take a deep breath through my nose and say "relax" on the way out. Then I walk into whatever crazy situation that I'm nervous about. I did that this weekend, checking out a grad school. It works wonders.
I also try to bear in mind that God didn't ask us to be cool. He only asks that we be kind. That takes off some of the pressure, and makes it easy for me to just be Me.
BEST WISHES SARAH! We're all rootin'/prayin'/tootin' for you!
Joyce
- Friday, January 15, 2010 8:27 PM CST
Sarah,
My son is 12 and in the 7th grade. He attended a private christian school for k-6 and this year we decided to send him to public school. He is a little shy, maybe even introverted and didn't know another child at the new school. He has made some new friends, joined the book club and is making great grades. He tells me every day he had a good day and he never complains about his new school. What a relief! You are lucky to start in a such a small school. My daughter attends a charter school for grades 3-8 and there are 16-17 kids per class, so it's a pretty small school. She loves it! We will keep you in our prayers, as we always do.
Hope
Raleigh, - Friday, January 15, 2010 7:29 PM CST
Hi Sarah, I'm 10 years older than you and didn't change schools but I did go a long period (years) without seeing anyone my own age, other than my parents, a few doctors and my elderly neighbour (who is like an extra grandparent to me). I recently met a group of people my own age though and wasn't sure how I was going to feel about it as my life is very different and had been for a while (due to illness giving me a different life experience) but actually it went great.
I’m sure it will be nervous but you'll find some nice people are your new school, from what your mum has said your a natural social butterfly!
Love
Viks
www.postpals.co.uk
vikki <viks@postpals.co.uk>
- Friday, January 15, 2010 3:21 PM CST
Sarah, you will do GREAT at school. Just be your own sweet, witty, wonderful self and soon you'll have lots of new friends. One little hint: act like you're confident (not cocky!) even when you are not feeling that way, and soon the feeling will follow. Also, don't be afraid to try new things. I'll be praying for you. And YOU will be awesome!!!
jenny <jenny@debcousa.com>
Orofino, ID USA - Thursday, January 14, 2010 9:33 PM CST
Hi Sarah: I have changed schools many times in the years I was growing up (traveling parents). While I was always nervous it always turned out well, you will only be the "new kid" for one day. I look back now and think that all the school switching has made me very good at making new friends.....a skill I carried though my life, I have lots of friend. You will be awesome! :)
Kim
Detroit, MI USA - Thursday, January 14, 2010 9:15 PM CST
Hi Sarah, This is a little hurdle for you and we will specifically pray for a new best friend, as in the non-furry variety! Can't wait to hear about the person YOU will be helping, knowing you....hmmm....that has lots of creative possiblities. Practice your story of the new school with some of us, is you feel like it!
Dave and Betty Lingle
Mercer, Pa USA - Thursday, January 14, 2010 8:30 PM CST
Sarah
although your Mom didn't actually tell what your exciting news is, I sorta guessed it when she had the picture of your new school on her blog.
I bet your will adjust much better than Mom with your new routine. Maybe she
can start teaching Snowy a few new tricks! Seriously, I think it will be a wonderful way for you to truly feel at home in Manteo as you develop new friendships. I don't have any advice, but am confident that with your beautiful personality, sweet spirit, strong character, empathetic nature, your kindness and love for others will draw new friends to seek you out.
prayers and love from Mrs. Pam
- Thursday, January 14, 2010 6:01 PM CST
Sarah, you will be so glad that you started school this semester! Just think of all the fun things you will get to do and all the new friends you will be meeting. Years and years and years ago, I started a new school as a freshman - I wished to this day I would have started in my 8th grade year - it would have been so much easier to make that transition into high school having already established friendships and understood the curriculum and thinking of the school system. It is understandably making you a little nervous but, Sarah (the bravest girl I have ever known), you are up to the challenge. You have looked much bigger, scarier and life altering situations square in the eye and let them know who is boss, and you did it with such grace and style and humor and intelligence. Just let all those qualities of yours shine right through and you will have nary a problem making new friends, achieving in your classes and just downright enjoying being in school again. Also, remember, we will all pray you through it. I am so excited for you. There will be some days when it would seem better to be at home, but in the end, you will be so happy you took this big step into your new town and your new life and towards new, great and possibly your forever friends!! Way to go, Sarah.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Thursday, January 14, 2010 11:44 AM CST
Yay for Sarah! I hope her school will be a wonderful new adventure. I went to ten different schools from grades K-12, so here's some advice on being the 'new kid'.
1. Don't think of yourself as the 'new kid.' You're someone the other students haven't seen before, but you're just as much a part of the school as they are!
2. Some schools might assign you a 'buddy' to show you around for your first few days. If your school offers this, take advantage of it. If not, you or your mom might ask the guidance counselor if it can be done.
3. If your school offers any after-school clubs, find one that interests you and join. It's a lot easier to get to know kids out of class.
4. In the same vein, if your school library accepts student volunteers, ask if you can help out. It's a great way to meet other kids who like books. :)
5. Give it time. It might take a little while to integrate fully into your class and school. There might be days where you feel as though you really don't belong there and you wish you weren't there at all. It's okay. Just keep in mind that every single student in that school has probably had similar insecurities and bad days, and that they don't last forever.
Good luck!!!
Denise <lastellina00@earthlink.net>
- Thursday, January 14, 2010 9:50 AM CST
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY Precious Sarah!!!! Sorry I'm a day late. You are so special and I love you so much!! God bless you today and always.
X O X O X
Bea <Bumblebee1955@gmail,.com>
PA USA - Monday, January 11, 2010 11:06 PM CST
Happy Anniversary Sarah!!! 7 years....time sure does fly! And I mean that in a good way, LOL!!! I would love to see the slideshow also....hint hint. :)
Keely <knoche197@yahoo.com>
Colorado Springs, CO USA - Monday, January 11, 2010 2:40 PM CST
Sarah, is it possible to share the Powerpoint presentation from church? I agree with Miss Pam - there had to be many tears along with that ovation! Thanks, Sarah.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Monday, January 11, 2010 12:28 AM CST
God is great and Sarah is proof! I am so happy that you were able to share your amazing story with your new church family. I am so proud that I have been able to share your story with others. I am humbled to be included on this journey and, boy, oh boy, I can't wait to see where this Sarah story is headed! Hope your day was very special.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Monday, January 11, 2010 12:16 AM CST
God's richest blessings to you, Sweet Sarah and to all of your family!!! It is such an honor and privilege to pray for you and all of my CB friends!! Love in Christ,
Dorine McNary
Williston, ND - Sunday, January 10, 2010 5:47 PM CST
I bet there were a lot of tears with that standing ovation!
xxoo Mrs. Pam
- Sunday, January 10, 2010 5:42 PM CST
Oh happy day to a healthy, happy girl!
angela conklin <conoil@yahoo.com>
graham, nc - Sunday, January 10, 2010 7:40 AM CST
Happy re-birthday Sarah :) Thanks for being a inspiration
trine
- Sunday, January 10, 2010 4:17 AM CST
Happy re-birthday Sarah!!!!! I hope you have a wonderful day. So much to be thankful for! You are an amazing, beautiful, strong young woman who's story has forever changed my life.
alyssa...www.caringbridge.org/ca/bennettboys (my godchildren) <sabiemc@aol.com>
chapel Hill, NC USA - Saturday, January 9, 2010 10:53 PM CST
I believe that this is the first time I've visited your page... What an awesome chicka you are! You ROCK! Keeping all of you in my prayers.... Manda/Angel_Wings
Manda/Angel_Wings <mandaandalanqueen@yahoo.com>
Erwin, TN USA - Saturday, January 9, 2010 9:14 PM CST
We love you, Sarah!
mantiks <rmantik@verizon.net>
- Saturday, January 9, 2010 8:55 PM CST
I remember reading that update when I read your whole history (took several days, that's for sure!)
what a glorious day tomorrow will be for you, Sarah, and for your parents, too!
giving thanks to God for your anniversary!!!!!!!
prayers and love from Mrs. Pam
- Saturday, January 9, 2010 4:28 PM CST
What a great anniversary to celebrate! I am so humbled and touched to have been along this journey - I joined at her relapse time - can't even remember how I found all of you but Thank God I DID! Sarah, you have hit that "PLAY" button in a way that defies understanding. You just keep on playing and living because I am confident and I expect that there will be no "rewinds" in your future. You have graced my life and I will be forever thankful for your gift. Congratulations and go celebrate.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Wednesday, January 6, 2010 9:24 AM CST
Happy New Year sweet Sarah. May God continue to bless and keep you. What a terrific young lady you are! Rmembering you in prayer!
Linda Cornelius <Lwcornelius@yahoo.com>
- Sunday, January 3, 2010 4:42 PM CST
Sarah--Thanks so much for the book review. It was just what I needed as I have a 10 year old daughter who needed a new book series to read. I was also desperate for a Christmas gift for her as the only thing on her list was a "Snuggy" (she saw a commercial at her grandmothers as we don't have t.v. at our house). She was thrilled with the books and my husband found the "Snuggy" so guess what she is doing right now? She also has two sisters age 8 & 12 who will also read the books (so will I) so I'm getting a lot of bang for my Christmas buck. Thank you!
Lynda
- Thursday, December 31, 2009 7:02 PM CST
Christmas is the season of opening our hearts and our homes
in celebration of the Savior who makes our hearts His home.
Wishing you a very Blessed Christmas Day.
prayers and love from Mrs. Pam
- Friday, December 25, 2009 3:54 PM CST
Someone told me that the 23rd is Christmas Adam b/c Adam came before Eve. Ha! Merry Christmas to you all!
Kim watts <Jimandkimwatts@yahoo.com>
Mccalla, Al - Thursday, December 24, 2009 10:41 PM CST
Dear all Smiths :)
In Denmark we celebrate Christmas 24th so for me it is not early. Glædelig jul as we say in Danish. Merry Christmas:)
Trine <trineb90@gmail.com>
Denmark - Thursday, December 24, 2009 5:37 AM CST
2009 is winding and I just had to stop in to wish you all a VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS! I'm not sure how I missed up til now that you're moving to Manteo, but I just know you will absolutely LOVE it there. My uncle is the Chief of Police in Duck and we vacation in Nags Head every single year, making sure that we always get out to Manteo. And have you checked out the Manteo Bookstore yet??? It's one of my absolute favorite places on the island. Especially on a rainy day!
Wishing you the best that 2010 can bring :O)
Rachel K. <Storm844@aol.com>
Lexington, Ky USA - Tuesday, December 22, 2009 11:35 PM CST
What a great year! And an amazing mother-daughter relationship that you have :) it's beautiful to see you both like this!
Happy holiday season to all the family!
Renee - marysienka.blogspot.com <renfb@animail.net>
Canada - Sunday, December 20, 2009 1:48 PM CST
Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas!
God bless,love &hugs,Linn,Daniel,Michael & Ariel
The Marrero's <gillinn7@msn.com>
- Saturday, December 19, 2009 10:47 PM CST
Dear Becky, Sarah and family
I felt moved to comment on the post it note that Nathan wrote when he thought that Sarah had been overlooked by Steve. What lovely kids Nathan and Sarah are, I really admire your family, you have done a wonderful job of bringing up your children. Take care
Love Angela
Angela <angela_sturges@hotmail.com>
Labaroche, France - Friday, December 18, 2009 3:50 PM CST
Wonderful book review, Sarah. Have you considered a career doing this type of work? Your love for words and reading clearly shine through this review. Keep them coming, Sarah. I will most definitely be checking out this book series.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Tuesday, December 15, 2009 2:22 PM CST
Dear Miss Sissy Socks, Your book review of the SBS was superb. Your grasp of the plot, characters and wit of the tome is remarkable. Your own writing style has a quaint, quirky, delightfully winsome flavor to it; it's all you.
S.K. Smith <sksmith57@embarqmail.com>
Manteo, NC USA - Tuesday, December 15, 2009 12:53 AM CST
Nancy Bratt's site now says that "Hospice entered our lives in September (2009).
Here is a repost of Nancy's myspace entry dated Nov 28, 2007:
http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.ListAll&friendId=106614161&page=20
nannys' condition continues to deteriorate. she continues to lose weight, and her blood work remains a mess. she has a problem holding onto potassium and iron. they have upped her to the highest dose possible. her white blood cell count remains low which means her immune system is nearly non existant. she sleeps most of the day and is hooked to pumps for hydration, vitamins, food etc for 18 hours a day. she has a major blood infection wich she has been battling for over 4 weeks now. 4 of the days were in the hospital. i am her main caregiver, and ***she is on full hospice. she is not expected to make it to next christmas.** she loses weight and hasnt held onto wieght even when her tpn calories, lipids and sugar has been increased. she recieves daily phone calls from friends, but remains very weak. thanks for checking in on nanny.
and from October 13, 2007
http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.ListAll&friendId=106614161&page=21
updated: if anyone ever doubted nannys' conditions we have it in writing now! i remember a few years back there was some doubt, but as i read the status nanny is and the conditions she has, i started crying. mike holly is our caseworker and the person nanny talks to regarding how i am taking care of her. her conditions listed were 2 pages long, confirmed by her doctors and when i read **"hospice" **that is when i lost it. i then thought of all the doctors that had to read these before they approved me to be nannys' caretaker. and when i read that nanny soon would need 24 hour care, i said I WILL TAKE CARE OF HER!! in black and white it said she may need a future hoome living care, and hell no, i am her mother and i will take caer of nanny when she needs that 24/7 care. for now i am just thankfull she is up and walking, laughing with her mommie and trying to enjoy life. it hurts, however, to read her diagnoses and realize that this is what she has. but i am relieved to know that if anyone had a doubt(some family) we now have it all in back and white. a thick pamphlet of nannys' diagnoses, prognosis(poor) and signed by her doctors and mike holly, our caseworker.
**********
October 13, 2007
nanny is a client of home and community services of washington and **providence home and hospice. **i am now her caretaker and will begin getting paid november 1st. today is my first day as a paid employee! it is bittersweet at the same time because although i get to spend time with my daughter, its the fact that i *have* to spend time with her for this reason.
Anne Smith
- Monday, December 14, 2009 9:49 AM CST
I guess I don't get why "would you allow Sarah to marry a black man" is a GOOD question, only because it shouldn't even be a consideration that a parent would NOT allow a child to love who she loves - especially a Christian parent. A sad world we live in where, in 2009, someone even still must ask. But thank goodness: a hopeful world, too; a beautiful world, too; a loving world, too.
I don't remember how I found your blog, but you and your family inspire me. Keep writing - your faith is an encouragement :) I can't wait to buy Sarah's bestsellers in ten years.
Annabelle
- Monday, December 14, 2009 7:49 AM CST
I loveeddddd the Mysterious Benedict Society...has Sarah read the sequels? I haven't yet, i've been distracted by some other books recently, but the rest of them are on my list. (Tell her to try the City of Ember series when she's done Benedict. It's awesome..) I work in a book store and do most of my individual sales in the "Independent Reader" and "Young Adult" sections. :)
Lissy (http://20oranything.blogspot.com) <shooting.hearts@hotmail.com>
NJ - Sunday, December 13, 2009 10:48 PM CST
Yes, it is nice to read this site, full of happiness and hope. It's really refreshing to see a close, happy family. That seems to be rare these days, sadly enough!
Monique <smdavis@sccoast.net>
- Saturday, December 12, 2009 6:44 PM CST
Team Smith
Thanks so much for the updates. Your family gives ours HOPE!
Team Hill
www.caringbridge.org/visit/angelahill
holly hill
Winnipeg, canada - Friday, December 11, 2009 11:15 PM CST
You know, I really wish that my blog list would show updates here, or that the old CB sites would send an email when updated like the new ones. My mindset has shifted over to Smithellaneous, and as crazy as this year has been, I just don't come here anymore. And as I read the entries, I'm so sorry that I haven't! Sarah... would you consider a younger man? Because my Adam will someday be a fine husband... I KNOW that he will. And I can't think of ANY family that I would love more as "in-laws" than yours! Just sayin'... no pressure there. And I'm glad your mom is wise enough to know that you needed to give your room a goodbye "hug". It really is helpful to end one chapter before starting the next; in life, just as in books, it gets really confusing if you don't.
Speaking of hugs.. can you feel mine? I'm sending it.. and it's warm and snug (without being TOO tight...). Praying, as always, for you to stay in God's will as His plans (and I truly believe that they are BIG plans!) for your life unfold....
Pam D <p_dought@bellsouth.net>
Powder Springs, GA USA - Friday, December 11, 2009 10:40 PM CST
Sarah, your list of husband qualities was written with great wisdom. Stick to it! Hope your new room is coming along. How does Snowy like it? Does he make it up all the stairs?
Guerrina
Ledyard, CT - Friday, December 11, 2009 12:25 AM CST
So, is that comfy looking bed at the cottage?! Yes, Sarah, please give us a brief description of the book. I would always like to find a good book to give my daughter for Christmas - she reads constantly - has a book stashed in many corners of the house and re-reads her favorites many times over and over again. So, help me out if you can.
About marrying a person of a different race or nationality - I have always thought and taught my daughters that if you were blind and fell in love with someone, how would you know what race or nationality they were - you would truly then be falling in love with the person, not the outer shell - and that is true love. I am confident, Sarah, that you will pick the best and stick by your list - never waver from it, never cross one thing off of it.
P.S. Snowy looks so much healthier and seems to be as happy a doggie as ever.
Fixing up a large room is difficult. Find out where you would like your bed and then the rest will fall into place - what a luxury to have so much space! Can't wait to see what you two come up with in the design.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Wednesday, December 9, 2009 12:15 AM CST
Becky, It's been awhile since I checked Sarah's page--just got DSL so response is so much quicker. So glad to hear that the move went okay. We continue to pray for you.
Deb Giedd
Eau Claire, WI USA - Wednesday, December 9, 2009 11:25 AM CST
Just saying hi. Happy Holidays
Lauren Young <aayoungs@live.com>
Newport Beach, ca - Wednesday, December 9, 2009 2:12 AM CST
Okay, so I know you were taking questions before so
Dear Sarah (like Dear Abby. Do you have Dear Abby in the South? But that's not my question),
One of my larger problems is trying to find a balance between keeping things in perspective (from my past health reality check) and "fitting in with the real world." To one extreme, thinking back on past events makes me very, very thankful, and I like that. But, it can also mean living in the past too much, and can make it hard to be sympathetic with people stressin' out about stuff like homework. On the other extreme, it's also good to live in the present but easy to get wrapped up in it. Any advice?
-The Tippy Scale in NY
P.S. thanks for the word 'mayhap.' My father also knows almost every word known to man, and although he berated himself for not deducing it afterwards, he was successfully stumped.
Joyce
- Tuesday, December 8, 2009 10:04 PM CST
I saw that book at Borders the other day and thought it sounded really good! I mentioned it to my mom (who teaches 6th grade) and she was going to consider reading it to her class. I'll have to let her know that ya'll like it so much.
Erin
Athens, GA - Tuesday, December 8, 2009 9:38 PM CST
Hi Sarah! Tell us about the book!
Jen
Jen Clowdus <jen@suitepartners.com>
Columbus, OH USA - Tuesday, December 8, 2009 8:46 PM CST
What a great list for husband qualifications. He is out there - becoming exactly what she describes - it will be awhile before she happens upon him, but, boy oh boy, when she does!!! And he WILL love his mother-in-law and she will love him also. Sarah, you rock!
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Tuesday, December 8, 2009 4:00 PM CST
What a well thought list...I know that one day there will be a wonderful young man, and they will melt each other's hearts. I know he will be just as she imagines. Many Blessings,
Linda Cornelius <lwcornelius@yahoo.com>
Rockwell, - Tuesday, December 8, 2009 2:04 PM CST
Sarah's list sounds pretty good to me!!!! I love accents too!!! It's good to have the kind of guy you would ultimately like to be with sort of clear in your head before you start actually dating, dontcha think??? LOL!!! I hope you guys had a great Thanksgiving! We have been out and about so much that I haven't had much time to post but I am still reading and am always praying for you guys!
Keely
Colorado Springs, CO USA - Tuesday, December 8, 2009 11:57 AM CST
Would you allow Sarah to marry a black man?
Nancy
- Monday, December 7, 2009 2:54 PM CST
Sniffle...Becky you always make me cry! Not that what you are writing is sad, but just so heartfelt. I hope that your move is going well and that you guys settle well into your new home!
alyssa...godmother to Ciara, Hunter and ^Tommy^ <sabiemc@aol.com>
chapel Hill, NC USA - Wednesday, December 2, 2009 7:40 PM CST
Sarah, I hugged a house once - you really can do it - I am glad you have such a wonderful new house to begin to love so much that it will deserve a hug from you someday. I also am so touched by your desire to keep Nathan's little note - you are such a special young lady with a very special family to love and love you back. Smile, Sarah, you have it all and you deserve it all. Have fun setting up your new bedroom! Your books and Snowy will make it feel like home very quickly.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Wednesday, December 2, 2009 3:06 PM CST
Dear Sarah:
You are still one beautiful young lady. Glad you are doing so well. Appreciate all the CaringBridge.com children. Pray for each one and their families every day. Keep up the good work. Take care and be blessed of the Lord.
Love & Prayers, ALWAYS
Nancy
Nancy Hickman <nwkh@comcast.net>
Kennesaw, GA USA - Wednesday, December 2, 2009 4:17 AM CST
Sarah,
When I was growing up I had always wished that I had a big brother. You are so lucky to have him. And, of course, he is so lucky to have YOU :)
Lesley
Cape Cod, MA - Sunday, November 29, 2009 12:11 AM CST
Happy Thanksgiving, Praying for you all as you make the big move to Manteo. Many prayers,
Linda Cornelius <lwcornelius@yahoo.com>
- Wednesday, November 25, 2009 3:01 PM CST
Have a great Thanksgiving Smith family! In my junior year of high school, one of my best friends moved away. She lives in a different state now but we're just long distance friends now. We still keep in touch occasionally. Facebook is great for that!
Sarah <startjumpin@gmail.com>
Sheboygan, WI - Tuesday, November 24, 2009 4:21 PM CST
Sorry I have not signed in for a while! Glad to read things are going well and....I am jealous....living at the beach!?!?!? Um, if you rent out the basement (if there is one) let me know =) Hope yall have a great thanksgiving!
alyssa...godmother to Ciara, Hunter and ^Tommy^ <sabiemc@aol.com>
chapel Hill, NC USA - Monday, November 23, 2009 9:17 PM CST
Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at Angel_Wings
Thank You, God, for everything ...
The big things and the small,
For "every good gift comes from God" ...
The Giver of them all.
And all too often we accept
Without any thanks or praise,
The gifts You send as blessings
Each day in many ways.
And so at this Thanksgiving time,
We offer up a prayer;
To thank You, God, for giving us
A lot more than our share.
First, thank You for the little things
That often come our way;
The things we take for granted
And don't mention when we pray.
The unexpected courtesy,
The thoughtful, kindly deed,
A hand reached out to help us ...
In the time of sudden need.
Oh, make us more award, dear God,
Of little daily graces,
That come to us with "sweet surprise,"
From never-dreamed-of places.
Then, thank You for the "miracles"
We are much too blind to see,
And give us new awareness
Of our many gifts from Thee.
And help us to remember
That the "key" to "life" and "living,"
Is to make each prayer a "prayer of thanks,"
And every day THANKSGIVING.
~ Helen Steiner Rice ~
MJ/Angel_Wings
MJ/Angel_Wings <marijeighn1@gmail.com>
Gardner , Ma - Monday, November 23, 2009 11:52 AM CST
Just clicked the reading video. It was so exciting to hear a REAL Southern accent. :)
Joyce <jdadekia@skidmore.edu>
- Saturday, November 21, 2009 7:56 PM CST
So glad you're better and that you had a good experience with the youth. Did your Mom REALLY say thirty YARDS away from the boys? :) Well, better than 300! Love ya, Sarah.
Guerrina
Ledyard, CT - Thursday, November 19, 2009 12:08 AM CST
Thinking of you Sarah, Glad you are feeling better and enjoyed your trip with the Youth. Praying for you.
Linda Cornelius <lwcornelius@yahoo.com>
- Wednesday, November 18, 2009 12:23 AM CST
So glad Sarah had a great time on her trip ....ummmm....check out that young man checking her out when she is giving her talk - what's his name? Could be your future son-in-law!!???!!! You never, ever, know - but there seems to be some interest in his face. Just sayin'....
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Tuesday, November 17, 2009 11:43 AM CST
AN INVITATION TO ALL PRAYER WARRIORS
The Prayer Warriors at Angel_Wings
are holding a Prayer Vigil on Thursday,
November 19th, between 8-9 pm EST for
all the families on our Angel_Wings
Prayer Lists and our Angel families
of children, teens and adults who
have gained their angel wings.
Thank you for joining us!
Angel_Wings Prayer Warriors
AngelWingsRemembers
Why Pray? James 5:16 provides a worthwhile answer. “The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and wonderful results.” Why pray? God says it makes quite an impact!
Michelle Council/ Angel Wings <mcouncil@comcast.net>
Laurel, MS USA - Monday, November 16, 2009 10:27 PM CST
I thought about the church trip where you and Steve met too!!!! LOL!!! I'm glad you had that talk with Sarah.....how did it go? Did she have fun? Did she meet any guys?????????
PS--I think it is so cool that Sarah is going to have a namesake!!!
Keely <knoche197@yahoo.com>
Colorado Springs, CO USA - Monday, November 16, 2009 11:53 AM CST
Oh, good grief, Mary H. You went and stole my memory!!!
Sue G (www.caringbridge.org/visit/sueguenther)
- Thursday, November 12, 2009 10:37 PM CST
Wasn't it on a church convention where you didn't know anyone else the place you met Steve? And kissed?
Have fun, Sarah! Just remember, they were a tad older than you are now. But, do have a great time.
Sue G (www.caringbridge.org/visit/sueguenther)
- Thursday, November 12, 2009 10:36 PM CST
Way to go, Sarah. You will have a great time on the trip this weekend with the youth group. What a great way to make new friends.
Becky, I immediately thought about a trip you went on (a little older than Sarah, as I recall) without knowing anyone and met a certain young man named Steve. I was relieved to hear you had a "talk" with Sarah!!!
I will keep Sarah in my prayers and thoughts for a successful, safe and happy trip. Sarah, I am confident you will have the best time and come home with many stories and many new friends.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Thursday, November 12, 2009 4:28 PM CST
I am guilty....I still use the link to get to your other site. I am so sorry!
I just had to comment about the youth rally.....isn't that how you and your other half met?
Like mother like daughter????
I'm sure she will have a fabulous time. Tell her to take a camera!
Lysa <lysa222@charter.net>
Boiling Springs, SC - Thursday, November 12, 2009 3:39 PM CST
As a Sarah Joy myself, I think thats a wonderful name. How sweet that they are naming their baby after Sarah!
Sarah <startjumpin@gmail.com>
Sheboygan, WI USA - Thursday, November 12, 2009 9:32 AM CST
Yes maam, I will be glad to use my bookmark for Smithellaneous. I often click her first, read a while and then go visit you, but I can easily use the bookmark. Hope Sarah is feeling better...Did she have a fever, or just sleepy. Many prayers, Linda
Linda Cornelius <lwcornelius@yahoo.com>
- Wednesday, November 11, 2009 8:19 PM CST
Becky
:-( I usually check on Sarah first and then head on over to your blog. Is there any way we can help you keep it as is??
All my love
Nancy
http://www.xanga.com/Nancybratt
Nancy
- Friday, November 6, 2009 7:35 PM CST
You are right, I go to the Caringbridge site first. I read anything new there, then "hop" on over from there to the family blog using the link. Change is hard, but I will try to remember to get their "properly" from now on! :o)
Tammy Armiger <Priorityonecb@aol.com>
Clayton, NC USA - Friday, November 6, 2009 4:04 PM CST
My 5 year old nephew asked me to pass the "A 2" sauce. so cute
Lauren Young <aayoungs@live.com>
Newport Beach, ca - Friday, November 6, 2009 0:48 AM CST
Hi Sarah(and Mom and Dad too), It's been awhile since we've written but had to PTL with you for the Duke report!! We saw the Sr. Smiths in Grove City when they were up and it's just so wonderful to be thanking God for all these years. The in-betweens you have been in this summer have given new meaning to the "wilderness expereinces" we all sometimes face. But the years of Sarah's blessings are truly treasures to us all. When did you say this will all be in your book, Sarah?!!!! We'll be ready to buy a copy!!
Dave and Betty Lingle
Mercer, Pa USA - Tuesday, November 3, 2009 8:06 PM CST
I second the request, if it isn't too much trouble, to post some of the previous pictures in front of that Cat Scan picture. Thank you for sharing all your photos - they are so good - I like the black and white, also. Sarah, you are really a very brave girl to go through all that testing - I am not sure I would have the nerves of steel that you must have.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Tuesday, November 3, 2009 9:21 AM CST
Request, could you show the pictures from year from year of Sarah standing at the pictures as you say it is fun to see how much she has changed every year?
Trine <tatjanafan@yahoo.com>
Denmark - Tuesday, November 3, 2009 8:10 AM CST
i found kate's page....it's http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/mcraekate
cathi
atmore, al - Monday, November 2, 2009 3:39 PM CST
Becky, was just wondering if Sarah has ever been invited to Duke to speak? Just think of the inspiration and HOPE she could bring to families of children just diagnosed, or families of kids that have been diagnosed and are going through everything she went through. She couls take questions from the audience (kids and parents)...and so could you and Steve for that matter. I know if if it were me going through that with a child, families like your could sure open a lot of eyes and doors to families that are "lost" in this whole ordeal. Seeing Sarah as apicture of health now with her rosy cheeks, head full of hair etc could sure bring a parents worst nightmare to a halt. At least they wuld have some hope and someone to talk to..better yet, lets get yall on the Dr. Phil show to tell your story. They have just been at Kate McRae's home doing a show on her. She has a brain tumor...has a caringbridge site too, can't remember what it is, i get updates automatically, so i never have to look the page up. Just a though I had, wonder if sarah's Dr's could set her up to speak...I'd love to be there just to hear her testimony! love, cathi...Oh, and the city where i live, we are called ATMOREONS! Not such a great name to be known by!
cathi coon
atmore, al - Monday, November 2, 2009 3:33 PM CST
What a wonderful way to be used by God, Sarah! To bring hope to the scared and weary. Congratulations on all the perfect test results. By the way, the pic of Snowy facing into the wind keeps me chuckling! Looks like he's getting a facelift or a new hairdo!
Guerrina
Ledyard, CT USA - Monday, November 2, 2009 8:49 AM CST
God placed you and Sarah in the elevator as his message of hope to that frightened girl and her mom - Sarah, you are hope to all of us in so many ways - safe travels, all you Smithes, this weekend - that includes you Snowy doggie.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Saturday, October 31, 2009 12:55 AM CDT
Congratulations Sarah on this great news! It is another gray and cloudy day here in Minnesota but now after reading the post I don't care so much. Let it rain.
Joanne Griffin <hvfarm@springgrove.coop>
Spring grove, Mn USA - Saturday, October 31, 2009 10:38 AM CDT
YAY! I am so happy about the great check up! =]
L in Alaska
- Friday, October 30, 2009 11:22 PM CDT
You and I have never met, however, ever since I opened an email from a neighborhood friend, Margaret Castallana, I feel as though I'm looking into our future.
Our daughter, Hannah, underwent a stem cell transplant on September 26, 2008, just a day shy of her 6th birthday. We are a little over a year post transplant, but we have lost so many friends along the way. Of the many families that we went through transplant with, there are just 4 remaining that haven't earned their angel wings and just recently Hannah lost two of her closest friends.
Margaret has been following Hannah's story since last summer and has witnessed the sadness we have felt watching our friends lose their precious children. She sent me an email telling me about Sarah and sharing photos with me, it was just what we needed to lift our spirits! We yearn for Hannah to be a survivor like Sarah!
I haven't been able to stop reading your Caring Bridge journal from the minute I started and of course the tears haven't stopped flowing either. The pictures were amazing and so inspiring! I loved seeing and reading about the change in Sarah (with her hair) as we are dealing with the same thing and Hannah is trying to adjust to her new look as well.
I feel so blessed that Margaret shared your story with us! We wish Sarah the very best and will be following her continued progress . . . you have given us HOPE!
The Marsh Family
www.carepages.com/carepages/HannahMarsh/patient
P.S. To access Hannah's page, you'll need to create a username and password on Care Pages to be able to view it.
Kelly Marsh <KelBelleFL@aol.com>
Sarasota, FL USA - Friday, October 30, 2009 9:19 AM CDT
That was a HUGE compliment...interesting...I don't think my girls have every labeled me as interesting....strange, wacky, overbearing, over protective...never, never, interesting...I am envious. Sarah is a gem! But you already knew that. Love the pics of Sarah, Snowy and one of my favorites - the OCEAN! In every picture from Manteo, you all just seem to fit perfectly. Manteo was just waiting for your arrival. So happy Snowy is feeling good -the joy on Sarah's face was worth every penny - difficult, but worth it. Thanks for sharing so much about your new home and town and family.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Wednesday, October 28, 2009 9:37 AM CDT
Thinking of you and praying for you as you head to Duke this week. May you feel God's goodness, and His presence. Many prayers
Linda Cornelius <lwcornelius@yahoo.com>
Rockwell, NC - Tuesday, October 27, 2009 8:24 AM CDT
How interesting are you? Really?
I mean, teenagers are usually pretty hard to please.
Sue G (www.caringbridge.org/visit/sueguenther)
- Monday, October 26, 2009 8:29 PM CDT
What a wonderful entry. I agree with Sue G. My prayers will be with you next week as Sarah completes all these tests.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Saturday, October 24, 2009 9:26 AM CDT
Thanks for this sweet entry. I miss the poignancy with which you wrote while Sarah was enduring treatment. Your writing is always good, but the depth and profundity of the during and post treatment era cannot be outdone.
Thanks for sharing this heartfelt journal entry.
Sue G (www.caringbridge.org/visit/sueguenther)
- Friday, October 23, 2009 3:58 PM CDT
I remember reading that original post with tears splashing out of my eyes. Today, as I read again, with tears threatening, I thank God you are with us, Sarah!
Guerrina
Ledyard, CT - Friday, October 23, 2009 3:05 PM CDT
Becky,
I've been busy reading over at Smithellaneous and don't check in here at Caringbridge as much. Wow, you are a busy writer. Took me a bit to get caught up! Yesterday, my daughter was having a rough time and I relayed your entry about Anne Frank. Words are so powerful. Thank you for sharing Anne's words. And yours. (Also, thanks for pictures of swashbuckling sailors!!)
My thoughts will be with your family as you travel to Duke next week. Thank you so much for all the writing you do. You truly express the joys and sacredness of all life.
Ann O.
Louisville, KY - Friday, October 23, 2009 8:01 AM CDT
Oh wow, I never remember to read the Smithellaneous blog, so I had no idea what was going on with Manteo and Snowy til I went over to check yesterday! Wow, so glad Snowy is home and congratulations on the new job and move!
Ellen
Pa usa - Wednesday, October 21, 2009 10:00 AM CDT
Get Well,Irvin Angst,U.S. Air Force, St. Marys Hospital,
Rochester, MN, many prayers, God Bless You
Jerome Scanlon <jerrypiano@usfamily.net>
Forest Lake, MN U.S.A. - Tuesday, October 20, 2009 1:46 PM CDT
I've been worried about you Snowy! I have a Daphne that looks just like you---Super Cute! Sending you Get Well Wishes and lots of Puppy Love.
Linda Britt <lbritt@fmrealty.com>
Morrisville, NC USA - Monday, October 19, 2009 8:56 PM CDT
Becky,
Posting here re Snowy as I don't have a google account. Does the pet hosptial use "CareCredit" it is a low interest credit program that is used for medical care (people too!). I used it when my third cat got sick and the first two had put me in the poor house (cancer and surgery respectivly). It saved me and my cat during a tough financial time. It's likely Snowy is to old to get pet insurance. My cats were by the time pet insurance became more common. Two of my babies are fur angels now but like snowy will be in my heart forever. Wishing a speedy recovery to Snowy (and to all of you when you see the final bill!)
Peg <PJFreilich@aol.com>
Boston, MA - Monday, October 19, 2009 2:08 PM CDT
Well, Sarah, you really know how to pick a fiance'. As far as looks go, you did good! You looked so comfortable on the porch, only thing needed was a spot of tea!!! Shall I pour???
Sharyn McDonald <sharynmcd@msn.com>
- Friday, October 16, 2009 7:05 PM CDT
To All Prayer Warriors
The Prayer Warriors at Angel_Wings are holding a Prayer Vigil on Monday, October 19th between 8-9 pm EST for all of the families on our Angel Wings Prayer Lists and our Angel families of children, teens and adults who have gained their angel wings.
Please Join Us
Michelle/Angel_Wings and AngelWingsRemembers
Angel_Wings
Michelle Council <mcouncil@comcast.net>
Laurel, MS USA - Friday, October 16, 2009 6:53 PM CDT
Sarah, he is a cutie!!! Love the smile and the eyes. Would love to hear the accent. Is he just there for the festival or a full time resident? Definitely keep him on your radar for 20 years from now!
Hugs,
Connie F-G <cdlfg@cox.net>
LaVista, NE - Friday, October 16, 2009 1:07 PM CDT
Sarah, you have great taste! He's cute. Nice eyes and a great smile. And I'm sure the charming accent didn't hurt either!
sue G (www.caringbridge.org/visit/sueguenther)
- Wednesday, October 14, 2009 4:31 PM CDT
LOLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL!!!!!!!!!!! WOMAN, YOU ARE SOOO CRAZY!!!!!!!!!!!! I HAVE TO COME TO YOUR SITE EVERYDAY FOR MY UPDATE ON LIFE IN THE EYES OF "SMITHISM!!" YES, you said that out loud and i am soooo glad you did, because it gave me a great laugh for the day! You are also correct in whomever gets Sarah for their wife is gonna be one lucky gentleman, no doubt...she is beautiful, smart, educated, funny, sweet, caring, thoughtful, precious, generous, and thankful for everyone and everything in her life...and who in their right mind wouldn't want all of those qualities. She is the whole package! OH, AND the fact of getting that GREAT set of in laws counts too...I think you and Steve will be great in laws to both of the kids spouses. Thanks for the great update! Love to all of you, cathi
cathi coon
atmore, al - Tuesday, October 13, 2009 3:24 PM CDT
I completely agree with Sarah - he is a cutie - and with an Irish accent - I also completely agree with Sarah's mama - in about 30 years.....just kidding - it is happening already - isn't it fun to dream this dream, Sarah AND Becky!!! Seriously, Sarah, good eye.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Tuesday, October 13, 2009 3:05 PM CDT
Sarah, you have excellent taste! He's a cutie! Love the Irish accent, too! Hope you have many wondrous adventures in Manteo!
Guerrina
Ledyard, CT - Tuesday, October 13, 2009 1:31 PM CDT
Well, Sarah has really good taste - he's a QTpa2T! And, if that's his Dad standing next to him, it looks like he might have something to say about a pre-wedding interview, too. =] Let us know if we need to "save the date" ~ how about 2-20-2020?
L
AK - Tuesday, October 13, 2009 1:28 PM CDT
FINANCE?????
Pat
- Tuesday, October 13, 2009 1:20 PM CDT
Um...just so you know..you spelled Fiance "FINANCE".. :)
And, I don't think I would even need to hear that swashbuckler's voice...he's definitely a cutie!
Buff <bclark@ihsaa.org>
Carmel, IN USA - Tuesday, October 13, 2009 10:36 AM CDT
Hi Sarah, I am so glad you are doing well with home schooling. Sounds like you have some really good teachers, and that it has turned into quite the family affair. Somehow I am not surprised. Keep up the good work, and know that I am remembering you in prayer.
Linda Cornelius <lwcornelius@yahoo.com>
Rockwell, NC - Monday, October 12, 2009 9:50 PM CDT
Hello Smiths,
I think I may have missed an entry or two because I was not aware that you sold the house or found a new place to move. I am so happy for you that this limbo and waiting will be over. Has Steve found a new church? When is the move? Is everyone happy? Looking forward to an update on the fabulous Smith's . I feel like we are old friends.
Lisa <lisahlisah973@yahoo.com>
- Monday, October 12, 2009 12:11 AM CDT
I could be that PE teacher!!!
Erik's family lives in my hometown. Donna and I have tried to meet, even in Mpls but never seem to pull it off. Aren't they an amazingly faithful family?
Travel safely this weekend. Please stay upright. Patio furniture is for sitting on. You took "falling into a chair" to a whole different level.
Hugs,
Connie F-G <cdlfg@cox.net>
LaVista, NE - Friday, October 9, 2009 7:08 AM CDT
What excellent experiences you and Sarah are having together. I feel there is nothing like a live performance of a play. I am confident that you will make even more great memories with Sarah this weekend and it goes without saying how precious they all are. Sarah, keep your tender heart - it will serve you well in your future.
Mary H <mch@herzogcrebs.com>
St. Louis, MO - Thursday, October 8, 2009 4:08 PM CDT
I would love to see that play. I am sure its really touching as the book is.
Sharon <sholweger5@yahoo.com>
- Wednesday, October 7, 2009 7:43 AM CDT
Funny, I moved this weekend and while out today, I passed a local school sign advertising their play, "Anne Frank." I thought to myself I would really like to see it...which isn't surprising since I have seen dozens of performances of this important play. I'm glad you both were able to see it and were also touched by it. I often wondered if non-Jews are as touched as I know Jewish people are by the layers of meaning in this production.
Sarah, you might be interested in reading "The Hiding Place," another true account of Christians who hid Jews during the Holocaust. It was written by Corrie ten Boom, a wonderful Christian example of love. She was a young girl when her parents hid Jews in their home, and she lived into her 90's, always talking about God and always living as an example of Christ's teachings. When I was a "young" Christian, she was one of the voices calling to me.
I'm so glad she did.
Sue G (www.caringbridge.org/visit/sueguenther)
- Wednesday, October 7, 2009 1:15 AM CDT
If you go to youtube and type in Anne Frank you can watch a video glimpse of her. It was when her neighbors had gotten married and you can see Anne in the window waving. There is something about seeing her that just makes it all the more real....
Jennifer D
Wilmington, NC - Tuesday, October 6, 2009 3:01 PM CDT
oh i am soo happy sarah saw that did she read the book the book is soo great let me know if she read the book and how how she like it i read it about in the 7th grd and ever silen then i been hurck on it i thing i read it about 500 times from the 7th grd and now i am in the 12th grd
Sarah let me know how you like the book if you read it if you what to read it and what to have a cope of it get go to you library they have tons about anne frank and about the Holocaues if you have any quitions get e-mail at hotpink10129@yahoo.com i have tons of stuff about anne frank and the hololcaues
Anna mcnamara www.caringbrige.org/pa/anna.mcnamara <hotpink10129@yahoo.com>
allentown, pa usa - Tuesday, October 6, 2009 11:20 AM CDT
There is another awesome book, called "Anne Frank Remembered", which was written by Miep- one of the women in Frank Otto's office that helped to hide them. It is a powerful account as well. Let me know if you read it.
sheila <shsellenriek@hotmail.com>
wildwood, mo - Monday, October 5, 2009 7:44 PM CDT
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