Thursday, May 4, 2006 2:35 PM CDT

This is really kewl...the YMCA had prayer day today and had pastors in the chapel all day to pray for anyone who needed it...of course, I ask for prayers all the time...I need them...The Pastor I spoke to was amazing...and helpful...I was really surprised when I went to work out and I was just in time for the first group prayer of the day...they are praying in a group throughtout the day...we all went around in a circle and whoever wanted to pray did...I thanked God for healing Craig...I wish I had all day to write about the blessing of the day at the "Y"...I cut my workout very short because I was so anxious about getting to the chapel...it was so worth missing some time of the bike...

THANKS "YMCA"...

thank you all who pray for Craig DAILY...

love you all, Helen

Tuesday, May 2, 2006 12:05 AM CDT

Hey everyone...Craig got out his mouth expander today...it feels good to have it gone...he got sick on the way home, so he is just hanging out with me today...he had already missed about 2 hours of school anyway...

it's another rainy day here...Lauren is trying out for cheerleading again this year...please pray she makes it...she didn't last year and she was devastated...

we only have 4 weeks of school left and I am loving that...

Smokey is being declawed today...they called and said he did great...i get to pick him up tomorrow...

thank you again to everyone who prays for Craig DAILY...means everything to my family...

love you all, Helen

Sunday, April 30, 2006 8:26 AM CDT

Hey everyone...

lauren went to 2 birthday parties this weekend...I know she will be tired today...she has a friend over to spend the night last night...it's going to rain here so our zoo plans are off...we will think of something to do...

Craig is good...he's watching tv right now...

Kristin is taking Lauren shopping for a dress and shoes for the dance friday night...THANKS KRISTIN!!!...

love you all, helen

Wednesday, April 26, 2006 11:21 AM CDT

Hey everyone...we are having lots of rain so our camping trip this weekend just may be off...

Lauren and Mallory worked so hard on a project yesterday...everything fell apart...the 3-D model, the paint of the shirts...they didn't get all the lines to their rap song learned before we had to shoot the video...I hope they get an "A" for effort...

Sue, my friend, came and worked out with me this morning...we did the step class...she did so well...it was fun having her there...

Daddy will be home tomorrow from his trip to Chicago...he left about 5 am Monday morning...it's been stressful without him...Kristin has been such a great help helping me with the kids, the house, everything...THANK YOU KRISTIN...

love you all, Helen

Sunday, April 23, 2006 8:44 AM CDT

Hey everyone...hope you all had a nice weekend...ours wasn't long enough...Lauren really could use your prayers for her at school...their is so much fussing amoung the kids and the teachers...it's really gotten stressful...thank you Kristin for helping me through this trial...

Lauren has spent most of the weekend with her friend Holly...she is such a sweet girl and I have grown to love Holly's mom...

thank you once again for your DAILY prayers for Craig...

love you all, Helen

Thursday, April 20, 2006 6:32 AM CDT

Hey everyone...

we are having TCAP (terra nova) this week...
today's the last day of testing...

I am going with Kristin today to a women's show...

I need the break!!!

thank you all who sent money to Craig for his birthday...

and thank you for the DAILY prayers for Craig...

love you all, Helen

Monday, April 17, 2006 6:30 AM CDT

Hey everyone...hope you all had a happy easter...

IT'S CRAIG'S BIRTHDAY!!!

he got a PSP...

he was so happy!!!

thanks for all the DAILY prayers for Craig...

love you all, Helen

Friday, April 14, 2006 9:36 AM CDT

Hey everyone...i hope you all have a happy weekend and a great Easter!!!...

Craig's birthday is on Monday...he is really excited...
he had plans with dad and maybe a few friends over...

there is no school today because of good friday...no school makes it a good Friday...

the weather is awesome!!!...it's going to be 87 here today...

thanks for all the prayers...sure do need them...

love you all, Helen

Wednesday, April 12, 2006 11:23 AM CDT

Hey everyone...

we are looking forward to a long weekend...

they is no school Friday...YYYEEEAAA!!!...

no plans really...just having the kids with me will be plans enough...

hope you all have a good Easter!!!...

thanks for the DAILY prayers for Craig...

love you all, Helen

Sunday, April 9, 2006 10:49 AM CDT

Hey everyone...Lauren had a really, really fun time at the "Believe" conference...

they had lots of interesting things to do...

we survived the tornados without any damage....PRAISE GOD...

other counties did get hit hard with tornados and many people lost their lives...

Craig's speech teacher is giving him a break from speech for the next two weeks until he get his mouth expander out...that's a super idea...

please keep Lauren in your prayers...kids can be so mean at times...I won't go into detail...

love you all and thank you all who pray for Craig and Tim DAILY...Helen...

Friday, April 7, 2006 9:35 AM CDT

Hey everyone...hope you all have a good weekend...

Lauren is off on her trip...we forgot to give her money for food this morning so daddy had to rush it to the church for her...luckily, he got there in time...

Craig forgot his agenda yesterday...wo his teacher will make him pull a card...of well...

we have no school next Friday...which is wonderful...

have a happy weekend...

thank you all who pray for Craig and Tim DAILY...

love you all, Helen

Wednesday, April 5, 2006 11:41 AM CDT

Hey everyone...I need prayers...

I just met a wonderful, kind, young man who has gone through brain cancer...he has two small children...one 3 and one 6 months...

you all have been so wonderful to pray for Craig DAILY...
would you please pray for Tim, DAILY...

I'll keep you posted as I grow to know Tim and his family more...

Pray that the Lord will guide me on any ways I can help this wonderful family...

love you all, Helen

Tuesday, April 4, 2006 11:12 AM CDT

Hey everyone...

we are doing good here...still trying to get this hearing thing firuged out...i do have an IEP meeting one week from today...

Lauren is getting excited about this church trip...this is her first youth trip with the church...

the weatheris showing signs of summer approaching...love the sun and heat...

thank you all who pray for Craig DAILY...

love you all, Helen

Sunday, April 2, 2006 3:59 PM CDT

Hey everyone...we are back...our trip was fun, but never long enough...oh well, summer is just around the corner...

Craig and Lauren are dreading going back to school...Lauren has a church trip Friday and will miss school that day and come back on Saturday...there are going to Georgia...this is her first time to get to go so she is excited...

will update more later...

love you all,helen

Tuesday, March 28, 2006 9:03 AM CST

Hey everyone...we are in GA on spring break...6 flags was fun and we are going again saturday...st. mtn. was fun and we're going again tomorrow...

it's great just to get away...

love you all...helen

Friday, March 24, 2006 12:05 AM CST

Here is my special birthday gift from Laura and grandma...

LOVE YOU TO THE MOON AND BACK

Thursday, March 23, 2006 11:37 AM CST

Hey everyone...i didn't realize it had been so long since my last entry...

we are getting ready for spring break next week...hopefully going to 6 flags...not sure...it's pretty cold here...

I'll just be happy to be with our family...

sometimes my life gets so busy that there's not much fun in it...however...this really isn't important considering God healed Craig and we are all good...I have to look at the whole picture...

hope you all have a great weekend...

love you all, Helen

Sunday, March 19, 2006 7:04 AM CST

Hey everyone...hope you all had a nice weekend...

one more week of school until we are out for spring break...

we had a wonderful time having dinner with friends last night and playing games...my friend is a great cook!!!...

Lauren is off to McMinnvile...where i grew up...with my friend i grauated high school with and her daugther...

THANK YOU ALL WHO PRAY FOR CRAIG DAILY!!!...

Love you all, Helen

Thursday, March 16, 2006 7:01 AM CST

Hey everyone...sorry for not updating sooner...

i am still waiting for the school to set up a meeting for Craig to get the hearing aids...until then, I guess he can't hear as well...it's frustrating...

daddy is still not feeling well and has to go to work anyway...

thanks for all the prayers for Craig and the rest of the family...

love you all, Helen

Monday, March 13, 2006 11:14 AM CST

Hey everyone...hope you all had a nice weekend...

Craig does have to have the hearing aids...

daddy was sick all weekend and still is...I've heard this lasts a week...

It was a long weekend...I cleaned all the time...with Rex being sick...we were unable to do anything...that was fine...makes you appreciate the times your health is good...

thanks to everyone who pray for Craig daily...

love you all, Helen

Friday, March 10, 2006 9:10 AM CST

What an eventful day already...

Craig gets his mouth expander out in 6 weeks...he'll be happy...he can chew gum then...

he is on his way to the Ear Dr...he might have to have hearing aids because his speech just has improved in 4 years...

we can handle it...he has been through so much...

we haven't told him yet...wanted to wait and see what the Dr said...daddy isn't feeling well and is taking him to all these appointments...

Lauren and Holly are downstairs...there home room teacher's grandmother died...her mother died only 7 months ago...please remeber them in your prayers...

lauren and holly went to the visitation last night...what sweet girls...they were afraid of the body having never seen someone who has passed away before...their teacher was very kind and held them by the hands...i think it shows what sweet girls they are to want to be there for their teacher...

again...I have to thank you all who pray for Craig daily...

Love you Jamie and love you Linda...

Helen

Tuesday, March 7, 2006 10:35 AM CST

Hey everyone...hope you are all doing good...

we are so good...PRAISE GOD!!!...

The kids are out of school Friday...we will try to do something fun...

want to say hello to Jamie, my very good friend...

thank you all who pray for craig...please know that we pray for you also...

Prayer is the best gift in the world...

Love you all, Helen

Here is a prayer request that I just got through an email...

Kate just turned 11 years old.
She has been diagnosed with AVM (Arterio-Venous Malformation)

please pray for this little girl...

Love you all, Helen

Saturday, March 4, 2006 9:33 AM CST

WE HAVE CLEAR AND NORMAL SCANS!!!...

PRAISE GOD AND THANK YOU ALL WHO PRAY FOR CRAIG DAILY!!!...

LOVE YOU ALL, HELEN

Thursday, March 2, 2006 1:30 PM CST

PRAY FOR CLEAR AND NORMAL SCANS IN JESUS' NAME...

Monday, February 27, 2006 7:05 AM CST

Hey everyone...hope you all had a nice weekend...goes by too fast...

we had a good weekend...nothing exciting...but it's great to have the kids home with me...

thank you all who are praying for Craig...

it means a lot to us...

cover him in your prayers on Friday...

pray for clear and normal scans in Jesus' name...

love you all, Helen

Wednesday, February 22, 2006 1:45 PM CST

hey everyone...i wanted to share some pics of the snow and Lauren and Rex just before the father-daughter banquet...







look at how much Smokey has grown





THANKS FOR ALL THE PRAYERS FOR CRAIG AND HIS SCANS ON MARCH 3RD...PLEASE PRAY THEY ARE CLEAR AND NORMAL IN JESUS' NAME...

love you all, Helen

Tuesday, February 21, 2006 11:37 AM CST

Hey everyone...this email is just in from Shelley...

If you would like to put my friend Michele on the website that would be great.
I just talked with her for 1 hour last night....things are not looking that good. She is at day 95-96 after a bone marrow transplant. She had that done in Buffalo, NY.....for 100 days she has to stay in an apartment that is connected to the hospital. She has a family member with her at all times. Last weekend they left her go home, for the weekend. Just to see how things would go at home, start doing little trips. That was good for her, and yet way to much.
After returning to the hospital, she blood pressure and heart beat were both really off. So they did some tests, gave her some blood pressure medication in a patch. She had a bad reaction, her face swelled, her neck and ear turned very red. And her heartbreat was still acting up. They decided to move up her scans, and they did not get good report. The cancer is in 3 spots, although after everything we talked about I can't remember where they are. Not sure what happens from here. They will do more testing in the next three weeks. If her body should get the Graph verses Host disease, then things can get worse very fast.
Her 36th birthday is coming up, and that is not a very good birthday gift...she is still trying to remain positive.
Please Keep Michele, her husband Donnie, and their daughter Kayla(7) in your prayers they truly need to touch from God. Thank you and God bless! Shelly


Please keep praying for clear and normal scans in Jesus' name...the scans are one week from Friday...

love you all, Helen

Monday, February 20, 2006 12:04 AM CST

I just found this out...





Sunday, February 19, 2006 4:00 PM CST

Dear Friends,
We thought it might be good to copy Oakley's Announcement on the web site. Talk to you all again soon.
Love,
Sheryl

Oakley "O" "Big Oak" Theo REED III
Davidson
Age 18
February 18, 2006
Age 18 of Nashville, TN, peacefully entered into eternal rest on February 18, 2006 after 3 12 years battling Ewing's Sarcoma. Oakley was not defeated by cancer -cancer took a toll on his body but not his spirit. He was a 2005 Honors graduate of John Overton High School. He was an avid bowler who won a bowling scholarship and an excellent video gamer. O was a great athlete who took great pleasure in fishing, swimming, traveling, sketching cartoon art and movies. He loved animals and will be greatly missed by Tucker, his Labrador, and his cats Indy and Murray. He was a Master Mason of John B. Garrett Lodge No. 711 F. and A.M., and was the Lodge's youngest member. Oakley was a remarkable young man who did not look at the outside of a person, but instead focused on what was inside. He had love for all based upon the content of their character. Oakley had tremendous faith in God. He touched and inspired the lives of many, many people during his brief time on this earth. His life is best described by 2 Timothy 47 - I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.

Born March 9, 1987, the son of his proud parents Oakley Joe and Sheryl Reed. Preceded in this final journey by his grandfathers, Oakley Theo Reed, Sr. and Maurice L. Young, Sr. His memory will be cherished by his parents; his grandmothers, Clara Reed and Mary Young; sister and brother-in-law, Kuma Sis and Travis Hatley and their children, Kaitlynn and Conner of Lebanon; brother, Shaun Reed; aunt, Karen Ankey and husband Chris Hudson; uncles, Maurice Young, Jr. and Michael Young; uncle, Ricky and wife Kathy of Chester, SC; aunt, Elaine and husband Paul Froeter; special cousins, Jennifer JenJen Reed and April Young; many other cousins; best friend, Justin Daniels; and special friends, Brian Hopton and Michael Daniels.

The family is eternally grateful for the care and comfort provided by Debbie Traugott, Charna Willoughby, Dr. Melinda Henderson and Chaplain Gene Lovelace at Alive Hospice. There are no sufficient words to explain the gratitude and affection this family has for the doctors, nurses and staff of the Pediatric Oncology department at Vanderbilt Children's Hospital. A special thank you to Ann Simmons, Allison Duffey, Jenny Holland, Judy Floyd, Ken, Anthony (and others too numerous to mention.) A special thank you to Dr. Ginger Holt, Dr. Wallace Neblett and family physician Dr. John Anderson and staff. Visitation will be held Monday February 20, 2006, Noon - 7 p.m.; Masonic service at 7 p.m., both at Woodlawn-Roesch-Patton Funeral Home. Graveside service will be held at 10 a.m., Tuesday February 21, 2006 at Woodlawn-Roesch-Patton Funeral Home with Reverend James Cole officiating. Celebration of Life service at 10 a.m. Wednesday, February 22, 2006 at Woodbine United Methodist Church, 2621 Nolensville Pike (park behind church.) Pallbearers will be members of John B. Garrett Lodge No. 711 F. and A.M. The Reed family invites you to visit Oakley's website at www. caringbridge. orgtnoakleyreed3, Flowers welcome, or contributions may be made to Alive Hospice, Caring Bridge, and www.nationalchildrenscancersociety.org. WOODLAWN-ROESCH-PATTON FUNERAL HOME, 615-383-4754.

Read Journal History

Sunday, February 19, 2006 8:16 AM CST

Hey everyone...hope you all had a nice weekend...here is a special prayer request from my new friend, Tammy...my brother is 41 years old and he has cancer and its in the 4th stage pray God will heal him...I found her prayer request while posting a prayer request for Craig's upcoming scans on March 3rd...

We are out of school tomorrow for President's Day...so glad about that...I love having the kids with me...

We are on our way to church right now...

thank you all who pray for Craig daily...

love you all, Helen

I am asking for prayers for Craig's friend, Oakley, who is on hospice...please help...he is an only child...he is 19 years old and the most beutiful teenager you will ever meet...i did get permission to post this prayer request from his mom to add his link...www.caringbridge.com/tn/oakleyreed3...please pray for him...

Thursday, February 16, 2006 6:40 AM CST

Hey everyone...

Craig has a little program at school tonight...not sure yest if he is going to participate or not...he is very embarrassed because of his speech...we'll see what happenes...

we have a long weekend this weekend...2 hour day of school tomorrow and off of school Monday...

Please keep praying for clear and normal scans in Jesus' name for Craig...his scans are March 3rd...

love you all, Helen

Tuesday, February 14, 2006 10:50 AM CST

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY EVERYONE!!!

The kids got me a card and a box of candy...Rec got me a card and a webcam...(who would want to see me)

Sorry for not posting sooner...I have so much stress right now...I just don't have the words to say...

Please pray Craig's upcoming scans are clear and normal in Jesus' name...his scans are March 3rd...

pray for my family as we get through these trials...

love you all, Helen

Wednesday, February 8, 2006 11:41 AM CST

Hey everyone...sorry it's been awhile since my last update...

We are staying so busy...that's good...

Craig has upcoming scans on March 3rd and I'm already asking people to pray for clear and normal scans in Jesus' name...

thank you all who pray for Craig daily...

Lauren is staying busy with school and friends...

I hope everyone has a Happy Valentines' Day...

Love you all, Helen

Friday, February 3, 2006 7:13 AM CST

Hey everyone...hope you all have a nice weekend...

it's rainy here...that's ok...the trees need water, too...

Lauren and Craig are both good...busy with school...

Lauren will be helping with Beta Club tomorrow...it's good for her to help others...

thank you all who pray for Craig daily...Love, Helen

Tuesday, January 31, 2006 10:21 AM CST

Hey everyone...sorry about not updating sooner...craig is better...now smokey is sick...he seems to be doing better...

have been so busy here...my friends are moving today and I have been helping them load the u-haul for a little while this morning...such great people they are!!!


sorry i haven't signed any guestbooks lately...the computer was down for awhile...it's up and running now...

thanks for all the continuous prayer for Craig...

love you all, helen

Saturday, January 28, 2006 8:40 AM CST

hey everyone...sorry for not updating sooner...craig is better...he was sick for 2 days...and the computer has been down...glad it's up and going again...thanks to your prayers...craig is better...back to his old self...

we are glad it's weekend...lauren had plans all weekend...

we are helping friends move today...boy...we hate to see them go...but they are going to help others in need...this is the most CHRISTian family I have ever met...they have helped us in so many ways...I will miss them...however...they are being obedient to God...so they need to go...

I have a friend who has a son who needs our prayers...his life is spiraling down...pray can make a difference...please cover this young man with your prayers...drugs are part of the problem...

THANK YOU ALL WHO PRAY FOR CRAIG DAILY...

Wednesday, January 25, 2006 8:22 AM CST

Hey everyone...have a prayer request for Craig...he woke up sick this morning...thank you for all your prayers...

love you all, Helen

Sunday, January 22, 2006 10:21 AM CST

Hey everyone...hope you all had a nice weekend...

our weekends are never long enough...kind of a boring weekend really...but it was nice to be with the family...the kids had fun with friends all weekend...

it's a rainy day here...good day to watch a movie...

daddy took the girls to church...

Holly got to go home from the hospital yesterday...thank you to all who took the time to pray for her...

THANKS FOR ALL THE CONTINUOUS PRAYERS FOR CRAIG!!!

Love you all, Helen

Thursday, January 19, 2006 11:51 AM CST

hey everyone...please say a prayer for Holly today...she is at Vanderbilt getting some tests done on her heart...i just know everything is going to be fine!!!

They were able to stay the night with us last night instead of making 2 trips to Vanderbilt this week...

We had a snow day yesterday...of course it cleared up within 2 hours...so we went back to school today...

daddy is out of state and will return tonight...we have missed him so much!!!

Smokey continous to grow and is the most adorable little kitten...

THANK YOU FOR THE DAILY PRAYERS FOR CRAIG!!!

Love you all, Helen

Monday, January 16, 2006 8:16 AM CST

Hey everyone...hope you all had a nice weekkend...the kids are out of school today for Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday...they both have a friend who spent the night...i love having them with me...having fun...etc...

we are doing good here...we visited one our friends' churches yesterday and Craig's story was breifly shared to the congregation...it was hard for me to hold back the tears...Craig's story will touch lives for the Lord for many years to come...the church was the mostly friendly church i have ever attended...Jamie and Connie, our friends, are moving...i hate so much for them to leave...but i know no matter where they are...we still have their prayers...

THANK YOU ALL WHO PRAY FOR CRAIG DAILY!!!

i love you all, Helen

Thursday, January 12, 2006 6:43 AM CST

Hey everyone...

everyone is doing good...

both kids got good report cards...

got to go to cici's with grandpa...craig ate 15 pieces of pizza...that's his personal record...

lauren ate her usual 2 pieces...

please keep praying for Craig...

love you all, Helen

Sunday, January 8, 2006 9:51 AM CST

Hey everyone...hope you all had a nice weekend...we always hate to see the weekend come to an end...we are having dinner at our friends house tonight...they are wonderful people...Brian is a musician and we can usually talk him into getting out his guitar and entertaining us...we have to beg...but we can get him to sing...we is a wonderful singer...

Lauren and Craig both had busy weekends...Craig got a little sick at Matt's house after he ate a burger out somewhere...it didn't quite agree with him...daddy wend and got him...he's fine...

Lauren went skating with Holly and Holly spent the night over here...we love Holly...she is such a sweety...

now we are off the church...

I got to talk to Laura this morning...boy...we sure do love her!!!

Love you all, Helen

Thursday, January 5, 2006 6:20 AM CST

Hey everyone...we are all good...busy...it's hard getting back on track...

my van is having problems...thank goodness i have an OLD back up car...looks pretty shabby...but it gets me around...

hope all you are doing good...

thanks for all the prayers for Craig...

love you all, Helen

Monday, January 2, 2006 12:39 AM CST

Happy New Year everyone!!!

The kids don't want to go back to school tomorrow...

I don't want them to go back either...

I love having them home with me...

Don't want daddy to go back to work either!!!

It was a good CHRISTmas vacation...

so glad we could have some family time...

Thanks for all the prayers for Craig...

cover him in your prayers for the year 2006 also...

love you all, Helen

Saturday, December 31, 2005 8:28 AM CST

Happy New Year everyone!!!

Lauren has plans with her friends tonight...

Craig is going with daddy and me out to eat...

we have had a wonderful CHRISTmas!!!

we really enjoyed being together...

Smokey is so precious...Hope you all got to see the pics of him...

THANK YOU ALL FOR YOUR CONTINUOUS PRAYERS FOR CRAIG...

NEXT SCANS...MARCH 3RD...NEVER TOO EARLY TO START PRAYING...RIGHT?

Love you all, Helen

Wednesday, December 28, 2005 9:08 AM CST

Happy New Year everyone!!!

We are having fun with Uncle Kip being here...he is the fun Uncle...that is Rex's younger brother...

Craig spent the night with Tyler last night and Kirsten spent the night with Lauren...I took Lauren, Kirsten, and Ashely to the movies yesterday and the boys to CEC...they all had a good time...

enjoying the CHRISTmas break so much...

Smokey is just the most precious little kitten you have ever seen...ADORABLE!!!

We love him to pieces...he is spoiled already...





THANKS FOR ALL THE PRAYERS FOR CRAIG!!!

love you all, Helen

Monday, December 26, 2005 7:41 AM CST

Hey everyone!!! I'd like to show you MY CHRISTmas gift from daddy...this one is mine...



I was shocked...his name is Smokey...he was recued from the pound by daddy and Lauren and i nearly fainted...

this kids had a great xmas...Lauren got an IPOD...Craig got a game cube...THANK YOU CODE BLUE...THANK YOU FOR EVERYTHING...especially the love behind the gifts...

here are a few pics of me and daddy with our frineds at Opryland Hotel...we went to see the lights...

---

Wednesday, December 21, 2005 6:57 AM CST

Merry Christmas everyone...my family is all together until January 3rd...daddy is off work until then and the kids are off school...YYEEAA!!

So many fun things planned...we are going to see the Christmas lights with friends tomorrow...Lauren is having a Christmas party...

Craig and Lauren are really getting excited...well...me too I should add...Wishing you all a very Merry CHRISTmas...Helen

---

Monday, December 19, 2005 6:56 AM CST

Happy Holidays...today is the Christmas party in Craig's class...the middle school doesn't have parties...

test today for Lauren...

they have a full day today and 2 hours tomorrow and then it's xmas break...


anyway...

love you all, Helen

thanks for all the prayers for Craig...

---

Thursday, December 15, 2005 7:03 AM CST

Hey everyone...I am volunteering for Craig class today...last day until January...we had fun at our Wednesday night Bible Study group Christmas party...I got the gift I wanted in the dirty Santa...Lauren didn't get the gift she wanted...but it was a $5 gift so i can buy it for her stocking...daddy, just like every year, got a girl gift and got stuck with it...we think it's hilarious!!!

hope you all re doing good...

love you all, Helen

---

Monday, December 12, 2005 7:14 PM CST

Hey everyone...hope you all had a nice weekend...last full week of school...I am getting excited about Christmas, too...lots of last minute things to do...going to Starbucks with my friend tomorrow...she is such a sweetie...

We have a party to go to Wednesday and Friday night we are going with friends to Opryland Holtel to see the Christmas lights...

thanks for all the love and prayers for Craig...

love you all, Helen

---

Friday, December 9, 2005 8:19 AM CST

Happy Holidays...hope everyone is good...going out shopping...again...one of Lauren's friends bought her a gift so I need to get her a gift...I am going to get some extra gifts to be prepared...

We are so excited about Christmas...I had fun having coffee with Linda yesterday...LOVE YOU, LINDA...

thank you for all the prayers for Craig...

love you all, Helen

---

Wednesday, December 7, 2005 7:48 AM CST

Hey everyone, how is the holiday shopping going? i am just about finished...going shopping with a friend of mine today...doing the mall thing...we are thinking of having a cristmas party for the kids...not sure yet, Lauren has so many people she wants to invite...craig has a few...

thank you all the for prayers for Craig...

Love you all, Helen

---

Monday, December 5, 2005 10:13 AM CST

Well, quick update...craig went back to school today, but as an ear infection...I picked up Lauren and her friend, Joy, this morning at school, both having fevers, and coughs...i have both girls today...that's ok, no need for joy's mom to miss work...

hope everyone had a good weekend...please forgive my lack of updating...Stuart, my brother-in-law, came in yesterday from Virginia...so good to see him, didn't know he was even in town...

trying to get shopping down...a little behind...have some time to catch up though...

I want to say thank you to Leo for all the photography tips!!! Keep 'em coming, Leo!!!

Love you all, Helen

---

Wednesday, November 30, 2005 7:21 AM CST

Hello everyone...Craig is sick today with a fever...don't know why...he's not throwing up or anything like that...he is staying home with me today...

Lauren is super...such a sweetie...her favorite teacher, Mr. Gray, is taking her to work at Vanderbilt with the spinal difida (sp)? kids...that is so very sweet of him...he also took the time to check out this website of Craig's...

thank you all for the prayers...i have been so busy...sorry i haven't signed any guestbook lately...

Rex's family left yesterday...

oh this is funny...we finally got lights on the house this year for the first time only to have the wind tear them down...i don't think we are going to attempt to put them back on...

love you all, Helen

---

Sunday, November 27, 2005 2:01 PM CST

Hey everyone, hope you all had a happy thanksgiving...we have Rex's younger brother, Kip, and his mother coming tomorrow...we are already looking forward to x-mas...can't get here fast enough...

Lauren has asked for an IPOD...Craig hasn't asked for anything...so hard to buy this year for the kids...

Both kids don't want to go back to school tomorrow...Lauren loves school, but really enjoyes being with her friends...Craig hates school...he will be really upset in the morning...

I stay so busy...maybe going shopping with a friend tomorrow...hope so, she's a sweety...

anyway, please keep praying for Craig...

Love you all, Helen

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Wednesday, November 23, 2005 5:01 PM CST

HAPPY THANKSGIVING EVERYONE!!!

HERE ARE A FEW PICS FROM THE BETA CONVENTION...

I HAD AS MUCH FUN AS THE KIDS...

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Tuesday, November 22, 2005 7:22 PM CST

Happy
thanksgiving!!! We have been gone on a Beta club convention for Lauren...so tired...I had 3 girls in my group...non-stop meeting for two days with lots of fun in between...Mr Gray is awesome with the kids...there were 6,000 kids from Beta club from all over...I met some wonderful ladies and made some new friends...I hope to hoook up with these ladies again soon!!! we are going to our church tomorrow night for Thanksgiving dinner...to my sister's house on Thanksgiving...Rex's mom and younger brother are coming Sunday...Lauren has 2 sleep over's, a party and Craig has a party...thank you all for your continuous prayers for Craig...I'll answer emails and sign guestbooks when I can...I also have some pics to post of the convention...Love you all, Helen

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Wednesday, November 16, 2005 8:56 AM CST

Hey everyone...sorry for not updating sooner...soooo busy around here...I can't hardly keep up...Lauren got braces yesterday...she had lots of work to catch up on...Craig made Honor Roll, perfecft attendance, and BUG club...Lauren made principal's List...

thanks for all the prayers...Helen

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Saturday, November 12, 2005 6:51 AM CST

Hey everyone...as you can probably figure out...the internet has been down here...hopefully fixed now...Rex's meeting with Craig's teacher was amazing...so much good things came out of it...Lauren is having some struggles...she get braces Tuesday...that's not the struggles...Craig made Honor Roll...he doesn't know yet...we are thrilled...I actually teared-up...Craig's teacher told Rex at the meeting...Anyway...thank you everyone for the continuous prayers for Craig...forgive me for not ansering your emails and signing guestbooks...I do love you all, Helen

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Tuesday, November 8, 2005 10:37 AM CST

Hey everyone...sorry it's been a few days since I updated...I caught Rex's virus...only I got it worse...sooo much better now!!!! Craig and Lauren I think are going to stay virus free...I sterilized everything many times...counting down the days until Thanksgiving...

meeting with Craig's teacher tomorrow...please, please pray it goes well...

thank you to all who continue to pray for Craig...

love you all, Helen

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Saturday, November 5, 2005 1:05 PM CST

hey everyone...right now i am testing this computer to see what's going on...

Lauren is at a birthday party...

daddy was sick yesterday...

please keep praying for Craig...

Love you all, helen

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Thursday, November 3, 2005 1:54 PM CST

Hey everyone,

Craig is giving a small talk about America...he is nervous about not being able to remember some of the words...he is trying and i am so proud of him...

thanks for all the prayers...
next scans march 3rd...

love you all, Helen

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Saturday, November 352005 1:54 PM CST

Happy weeekend everyone...Craig spent the night with one of his friends last night and Lauren had a friend to spend the night...we has a party to go to today...daddy was sick yesterday and missed work, but is better today...I am catching up on house work...

next scans March 3rd...never too early to start praying for clear and normal scans in Jesus' name...

Love you all, Helen

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Thursday, November 3, 2005 1:54 PM CST

Hey everyone,

Craig is giving a small talk about America...he is nervous about not being able to remember some of the words...he is trying and i am so proud of him...

thanks for all the prayers...
next scans march 3rd...

love you all, Helen

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Thursday, November 3, 2005 6:33 AM CST

Hey everyone, we are dong good...I vounteer today for Craig's class...not looking forward to that...his teacher is not very understanding of his situation...I am about ready to go to the school board...but we'll try to look at the positive side of things...I met a really woderful lady yesterday, don't know her name...she is battling breast cancer and doing it with flare...we will certainly be praying for her...thank you all who continue to pray for Craig...next scans, March 3rd...never too early to start praying, right?

love you all, Helen

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Monday, October 31, 2005 10:21 AM CST

Happy Halloween everyone...daddy is taking the kids trick-or-treating this year...it will be the first year ever...Craig is excited...Lauren is getting older and just wants to go with her friends...I wish you all a safe and wonderful Halloween...thank you to all who continue to pray for Craig...

love you all, Helen

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Friday, October 28, 2005 10:27 AM CDT

Happy weekend everyone...doing good here...Lauren has lots going on this weekend...of course, she is going to her friend's competition tomorrow, then off to 2 parties...Craig is spending the night with Matt, his best friend, whom we all love and adore...daddy and I have date night tonight...this has been a new tradition for about 1 month now...Craig, Lauren, and I all have sore throats...Craig is almost completely well...Lauren is at the worst stage and I'm just starting with the worse ahead of me...all of this is so minor...

so, please keep Craig in your prayers...

love you all, helen

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Tuesday, October 25, 2005 7:01 AM CDT

Hey everyone, we are doing good...staying busy...lots of fun things going on...Craig has got a cold...he is coughing sniffling, etc...tis the season...Lauren is staying busy with homework...never any free time...she will lbe making jewerly for beta club next month...she is doing hair barretts...they look really good...it's freezing cold here...I had to stop walking outside with my friends...I think they have stopped for awhile, too...

love you all,

keep praying for Craig...

Helen

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Saturday, October 22, 2005 10:06 AM CDT

Hey everyone, happy weekend...we are going to two parties today, maybe 3...Rex is busy with some men from church helping a family move...Gwen, my sister, had her appendix (sp)? taken out last night...she is doing good...ready to get out of the hospital that's for sure...

anyways, happy weekend once again...

love you all, Helen

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Wednesday, October 19, 2005 8:20 AM CDT

Hey everyone, not too much to tell here...we are doing good...staying busy...gettting ready for Halloween...Lauren will be a cheerleader and Craig wants to be an army man...or a mummy...we'll see...hope you all are doing good...

love you all, Helen

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Monday, October 17, 2005 6:11 AM CDT

Hey everyone, we had a busy weekend...we went to the Song of Solomon seminar...the kids stayed with my sister...we went to a birthday party...did lots and lots of homework with Lauren...two tests today...the weekends are never long enough...hope you all are doing good...

love you all, Helen

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Thursday, October 13, 2005 12:15 AM CDT

Hey everyone, sorry I haven't updated...this computer is up and down...we are soing good...Craig is struggling still in school...Lauren is doing good in school...so much work to do though...my friend Sue, did the sweetest thing for me yesterday, 1st, she treated me to coffee...bought my a pumpkin for my front porch...went shopping and bought me all ingredients to make bread in my bread machine...what a gift from God she is...I had to share the love with you guys...I am having trouble getting into some of the guestbooks...Laura's, Brenda, Dave's dad just to mention two...so please forgive if I don't answer emails or sign guestbooks...I brought this trouble on myself by downloading things with viruses...(I didn't realize what I was doing)...Rex has been trying hard to fix the problems...so, anyway...just know I love you all, Helen

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Sunday, October 9, 2005 8:26 AM CDT

Hey everyone, haven't dropped off the planet...we have been on fall break...didn't do much, our finances are a little low considering me and both kids are in orthodontics...that gets pricy...dreading going back to school...craig lost his agenda...Lauren has a test to study for and a project to due and a novel to read...it's never ending...

you are all in my thoughts daily...

Helen

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Monday, October 3, 2005 7:43 AM CDT

Hey everyone...hope you all had a good weekend...my niece, Madesta, got married...here are some pictures...

Madesta and Lauren

Gwen and me (Helen)

Lauren and my sister Lisa, the brides mother

Craig and Uncle Tom and Aunt Kyoko

Blake, my nephew and Lauren

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Saturday, October 1, 2005 6:54 AM CDT

Hey everyone, niece is getting married today...I will post pictures some time next week...maybe...we are on fall break...we are not doing much this year...trying to cut back for Christmas...We went to a free art showing last night...never been to one...it was fun!!! Rex and I are trying to have a "date night" every Friday night now that the kids are big enough to not need me 24/7...last night was our second "date"...

anyway...love you all, Helen

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Tuesday, September 27, 2005 10:02 AM CDT

Hey everyone...well, I have good news...Craig DIDN'T give his teacher the letter, however, she found it anyway...shw wrote me back yesterday...here is the skinny on what she had to say...such a sweet letter...she explained that she hasn't yet learned how much he is capable of...she will be sending Craig's work with him to Ms. Williams' class, she is a special ed teacher whom I love...Ms. Williams will be helping Craig understand the assingments more and therefore Craig will be able to participate in recess...she apologized for Craig missing recess on Thursday...this was such a leap to my heart...I am so grateful for her understanding...I hope Craig will be able to have recess from mow on...I want to thank all the people who went me personal email and signed Craig's guestbook with encouraging words for me and for understanding...one grandmother understood so completely...thank you, I really needed to hear from all of you who took the time to come to my rescue...I LOVE YOU ALL, Helen

Here are some pics from Lauren frist school dabce last night...she had soooo much fun!!!













I didn't go to the dance...this is Lauren and her firends, Shannon and Kelly before daddy took them to the dance...Me

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Friday, September 23, 2005 5:41 AM CDT

Hey everyone, hope you all had a nice weekend...ours goes by way too fast...had friends over for dinner, games and a movie...lots of fun...Craig is on a field trip today...if it's not rained out...Lauren worked beta club this morning and has her first dance tonight...let you know how it goes...anyway, I'll update more later...love you all,Helen

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Wednesday, September 21, 2005 6:45 AM CDT

Hey everyone, hope you all are doing good....homework and tests are a nightmare for Lauren...one of the other mothers and myself are thinking about going to the school...Craig is struggling in school...could sure some prayers...I have decided to give up drama ministsry and Tuesday night tae-bo...I just have way too many things to do...anyway, please keep praying for Craig...Love you all, Helen

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Monday, September 19, 2005 9:16 AM CDT

We had a fun weekend, considering the dental appointment Friday. We had friends over Saturday night for dinner and a movie...Sunday, we went on our friend's boat with our Wednesday night Bible study group....Lauren jumped off a 20 ft. cliff into the water...several people bribed her for offered her $10 if she did do it...took her 30 minutes and a bribe to convince before she did it...

thank you for all the prayers for craig....

Next scans, MaRch 3rd...

Love you all, Helen

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Friday, September 16, 2005 1:46 PM CDT

What a day...what we thought was 1 tooth filling, turned out to be a crown, another tooth filled, one tooth sealed, 2 teeth extracted, a mouth expander,sedation, 2 sets of impressions, 2 sets of exrays, a round of antibiotics, and tylenol with codeine prescription...wasn't prepared for all that...however, I'm glad it was one appointment instead of scheduling many appointments...Dr. Snodgrass is amazing...so good with the kids...so easy to love...he let me come watch, even tough technically, no parents are allowed...I didn't know and told Craig I would be there with him the whole time...I broke down and cried at one point with this lovely woman trying to console me...didn't get her name, I just know she was an angel...thanks for all the prayers for Craig...and please pray for Lisa, Dr. Snodgrass' assistant...her child was taken off life support today...

love you all, Helen

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Wednesday, September 14, 2005 10:09 AM CDT

I know you guys must think I have dropped off the planet...I am so far behind signing questbook, answering emails, etc. Lauren has had 6 projects, 4 that we are working on now and this is only the first month of school...she has no free time...stays up late, gets up early...we are all so tired of DAILY projets!!!

Please keep praying for craig...

know if I haven't signed your questbook, or answered your emails, I love you, I am just overwhelmed...i am giving up drama ministry at church...after the performances with Sunday...I might have to give up Wednesday night Bible studay and Tuesday night Tae bo...i just started Tae Bo with a friend lat night...it was fun, I just don't have the time...

just know I love you all, Helen

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Monday, September 12, 2005 6:21 AM CDT

Just a quick update...hope you all had a nice weekend...ours was fun...Friday the kids get out of school around 11:45...that will be wonderful!!!

Craig is struggling in school...Lauren has way too many things going on....

Please keep praying for Craig...next scans, March 3rd...

Love you all, Helen

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Saturday, September 10, 2005 5:04 PM CDT

Well, Lauren's party was great!!! She had 30 kids...Here are a few pics of the party bus....

keep praying for Craig...

Love you all, Helen

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Thursday, September 8, 2005 7:01 AM CDT

Hey everyone, thought I'd better update while the internet is working....

I will be volunteering at Craig's class for the first time this year....I hope it will be an every week thing...

Lauren has 4 tests she studing for....middle school is challenging....she is excited about her birthday tomorrow!!!! I hope she has a good turn out!!!

nothing else new here....

keep praying for Craig...

Love you all, Helen

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Tuesday, September 6, 2005 11:08 AM CDT

Hey everyone.....

PRAISE GOD!!!!! WE HAVE CLEAR AND NORMAL SCANS!!!!!

Net scans...March 3rd...never too early to cover him in your prayers....

thank you everyone who has prayed for Craig and my family...


Lauren's birthday is Friday...the party bus sounds like sooo much fun!!!

I am going to be in a play at church...I memorized my lines OUT OF ORDER!!! Now, I'm so confused when to say them....oh well, nobody's perfect....

love you all and Praise the Lord!!!! Helen

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Wednesday, August 31, 2005 12:23 AM CDT

Can you tell my internet has been down?

SCANS THIS FRIDAY...PRAY THAT THEY ARE CLEAR AND NORMAL....

my email is down, too...

Love you all, Helen

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Friday, August 26, 2005 9:17 AM CDT

Happy weekend everyone....

We are busy as usual...school projects are overwhelming this year in middle school...I won't go into detail because I could type all day....

my internet is driving me crazy....just know if I haven't answered your emails....I can't...

thank you for the prayers for Craig....scans one week from today...please pray that they are clear and normal...

Love you all, Helen

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Wednesday, August 24, 2005 5:01 AM CDT

Hey everyone, my internet is up and down, so forgive me for not signing guestbooks or answering emails...

Craig is having a hard time adjusting to school...it breaks my heart to have him cry about it almost every night....

Lauren has adjusted to middle school wonderfully!!!! Her birthday is coming up the 9th and we are planning her party!!! We are doing a party bus here at the house....this should be interesting...we have never done a party bus before...

so many projects already starting....Lauren has 2, Craig has one....this is part of it though...

THANKS FOR THE CONTINUOUS PRAYERS FOR CRAIG'S SCANS TO BE CLEAR AND NORMAL ON SEPT 2ND...

love you all, Helen

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Sunday, August 21, 2005 12:16 AM CDT

This is too funny...we had friends over for dinner last night and Craig fell asleep watching a movie....check out these pics....please keep praying for clear and normal scans on Sept 2nd....

Love you all, Helen

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Thursday, August 18, 2005 10:58 AM CDT

My internet has been down...hope it stays up now...

Lauren and Craig are back in school....

Craig has upcoming scans on Sept. 2nd....please pray that they are clear and normal....

love you all, Helen

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Monday, August 15, 2005 1:25 PM CDT

Hey everyone, hope you all had a good weekend and fun summer....the kids have their first full day of school today...I am anxious to see how it went...

we had a busy, busy summer and good weekend...

we had 3 parties this weekend, with 2 parties next weekend and 3 wedding at all within a month...

We haven't heard from Rex's mom yet...hoping to hear from her soon...

please continue to pray for Craig...

this email came in a couple days ago...my internet has been up and down, so I am just getting to post it...


I am starting a signing for my sons best friend who has cancer (Hodgkin's
Lymphoma). He is 11 years old and is not doing well at all.

He was diagnosed with this cancer 2 weeks ago and the tumor is next to his
juggler vein and intwined in it...it has moved his wind pipe over a inch
making it hard for him to breathe. The tumor is the size of a large eggplant
and is sitting right above his heart. This little boy needs all the prayer
he can get.

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Friday, August 12, 2005 6:47 AM CDT

Happy weekend....Craig got Ms. Wells, who is who Lauren had in the 3rd grade....great teacher!!!!

Lauren got in 6-2 mini school...that was her second choice...6-1 was her first....she is happy with it...

Rex's mom is going to a nursing home sometime next week...

my internet has been down, so forgive me for not getting back with you all...

love you all and pleae continue to pray for Craig....

Scans...Sept 2nd....please pray that they are clear and normal...

Love you all, Helen

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Wednesday, August 10, 2005 4:20 PM CDT

Finally, my internet has been down...so I hope this journal entry stays....

Grandma has now fallen and hurt her left leg...don't know how bad at this point...her kids want to put her in a nursing home...I offered to take her, but Uncle Kip said he thought it would be too noisy for her with a house full of kids all the time...at least I offered....

School starts tomorrow....bummer...the kids are dreading it.....especailly Craig...

Lauren starts middle school and goes to a different school...

anyways, sorry I haven't answered emails or guestbook entries...my computer has been down...

Love you all the please keep praying for Craig...scans..sept. 2nd...Helen

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Monday, August 8, 2005 9:00 AM CDT

Hey everyone, school starts on Thursday....so dreading it...it has been a fun summer, but a very short summer...

we went to see grandma yesterday...she is much better...parkinson's, alheimer, and a mini stroke is what has been diagnosed so far...she is now on the proper meds...

CRAIG IS HAVING SCANS ON SEPT 2ND....PLEASE PRAY THAT THEY ARE CLEAR AND NORMAL....

love you all, Helen

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Saturday, August 6, 2005 7:31 AM CDT

Hey everyone....Rex's mom is better...she has parkinson's for sure....she does not have anything wrong with her heart....she is on meds now and doing better....thanks for all the prayers....here are some more pics of the kids...grandma is the little old lady....

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Thursday, August 4, 2005 8:41 AM CDT

Hey everyone, here are a few pics of the kids....

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Wednesday, August 3, 2005 9:23 AM CDT

Hey everyone, looong day yesterday...the grandkids didn't get to spend much time with grandma...her and all her kids were discussing care for her, meds, doctors, etc...

Leslie, her friend Taylor, and Andrew came back home with us last night....I do have some pics of everyone...I don't know when I will get around to posting them for all you to see...

anyways, I got to run...forgive me for not visiting your website or signing your guestbooks....I am overwhelmed right now...just know I love you all, Helen

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Monday, August 1, 2005 12:59 AM CDT

Hey everyone...hope you all had a good weekend....we had to buy school clothes for the kids....Lauren needed almost everything....the dress code is so strick in middle school...I had trouble fitting her in clothes...she's so tiny...Craig got hand-me-downs from Tyler....thank you, Tracey, Tyler's mom....sure did help....I didn't have to buy Craig any jeans at all...

We are all meeting at Grace's, Rex's mom, house tomorrow...she is doing better...still not good, but better...the kids haven't seen their cousins for almost 2 years...Leslie and Lauren adore each other and love being together....Andrew and Craig are friends and the older they get, the more they have in common...Leslie is 15 and Andrew is 12...

Kelly, Jordan's mom had a wreck this morning...I am picking Jordan up and taking the girls to cheerleading...she is ok....really sore...and will be really, really sore tomorrow...they told her not to go back to work until Wednesday...she doesn't have any broken bones or too, too serious injuries....soreness is injury enough...

once again...thank you for your continous prayers for Craig....

love you all, Helen

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Friday, July 29, 2005 7:05 AM CDT

Hey everyone....just a quick update on Rex's mom....all the kids are meeting on Tuesday to see her....one brother is already at her house and his other brother and one sister are coming from Virginia for a week...

she has had a good life...she is in her 70's...still young, but still a good life....I just pray for her not to be in pain...we have no idea what is wrong with her....the doctors can't seem to figure it out...

thanks for the continuous prayers for Craig....

Love you all, Helen

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Wednesday, July 27, 2005 6:42 AM CDT

Hey everyone, Rex's mom is sick and they are thinking shw probably die within a week...she is in a lot of pain....please pray for the pain to go away....

we are dreading going back to school....Craig asks about it everyday...

Lauren and Jordan have been together since Sunday and now Jordan is with her dad...I'm picking her up today...

We are doing good here....enjoying the last bit of summer..
it was hot yesterday....we went swimming...

please keep Craig in your prayers....

love you all, Helen

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Monday, July 25, 2005 6:55 AM CDT

Hey everyone....hope you all had a good weekend...

playing on the boat with our Bible study group was fabulous!!!! we had such a good time...I even got in the water....that was a miracle in itself becasue I am terrified of water....we stayed our on the lake until 8PM...

Jordan, goofy, came yesterday to spend a few days with us...I just love this friend of Lauren's...they, along with another friend of Lauren's Shannon, kept me up most of the night last night laughing and having fun....

school is starting in a couple of weeks...

please keep Craig in your prayers...

Love you all, Helen

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Friday, July 22, 2005 6:36 AM CDT

Happy weekend everyone....it's raining here...again....I guess we'll stay home....

We haven't got a lot planned for this weekend....going on a boat with our Bible study group tomorrow...it's surposed to be sunny....

we are staying so busy here...I can't believe summer is almost over...

anyway, thanks for always, always praying for Craig....

next scans, Sept 2nd...

Love you all, Helen

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Wednesday, July 20, 2005 3:56 PM CDT

Hey everyone, a lot of people asked me what a flyer is...it's where you are at the top of the pyramid in cheerleading...I loved every minute of it...I wish I knew how to get to pics from my cell phone to here so you all could see..

Love you all, Helen

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Tuesday, July 19, 2005 9:20 AM CDT

Hey everyone...

guess what....I, me, Helen, got to be a flyer last night at Lauren's cheerleading....Coach Scott was teaching some flying skills to Lauren....she was scared....he asked in I was here mom...she said yes, he said come on out here mom...I got to go up...I know, I am easily amused...it made my day....I got pics on my cell phone...but they are not good pics at all...anyway...it was fun, and I loved it...daddy was there picking up Craig and he got to see me...

hope everyone is doing good...not sure what we are doing today...enjoying some sunshine...cleaning house, etc...

thanks for all the prayers for Craig...

love you all, Helen

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Monday, July 18, 2005 7:48 AM CDT

Hey everyone, hope you all had a good weekend...ours always ends so fast...

going swimming today, hopefully, it's not raining outside....

thanks for all the prayers for Craig...

I don't have too much to say today...

love you all, Helen

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Saturday, July 16, 2005 7:44 AM CDT

Hey everyone, this is so kewl...I met a family who lives in our neighborhood...they know Lance Armstrong personally...they are going to let us met him the next time he is here in Tennessee...don't know when that will be, but I pray that it happens....the father of this family in also a pastor....so you know I ask for prayers for Craig...

Lauren's friend Jordan for cheerleading, a new friend, spent 2 nights so far with us...the kewl thing is I graduated high school with Jordan's mom...hadn't seen her in years...now our girls are friends, the same age, going into the same grade and love the same things...who would have guessed years ago when Kelly and I were friends that we would have daughters to be friends...

still raining....i guess swimming is out of the question....

have a wonderful weekend everyone....

love you all, Helen

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Thursday, July 14, 2005 9:23 AM CDT

Hey everyone, still raining here....

here are a few pics of Lauren and Craig I took yesterday...

these shirts are from Steve, an arm wrestling champ, Craig and Lauren call him muscle man....

I want to this you all a good weekend....

nothing too much going on here....

the rain makes it hard to do much...

anyway, thank you all for your CONTINUOUS prayers for Craig....

love you all, Helen

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Wednesday, July 13, 2005 6:55 AM CDT

Hey everyone, we are doing good...it's raining here...has been all week...

Craig spent the night with Matt last night and Lauren stayed with Alexis...

We have so much going on right now, please keep us in your prayers...

remember Craig's has scans Sept 2nd...

Love you all, Helen

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Tuesday, July 12, 2005 7:56 AM CDT

LaKota, her one year post biopsy and chest x-ray's are this Tuesday, Please pray for all LaKota's tests to show every thing 100 percent healthy.

please also keep Craig in your prayers, his next scans are sept 2nd....it's never too early to start praying....

love, Helen

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Sunday, July 10, 2005 6:53 AM CDT

Hey everyone, hope you all had a nice weekend...I hate to see it come to an end....Daddy and Craig went to see the Batman movie yesterday and then to a party....Lauren is with her friend for the weekend....I went to Gwen's house and then enjoyed some time alone, which rarely happens,...it was nice...I watched 2 movies by myself and relaxed on the bed....

love you all, and thanks for all the prayers for Craig....Helen

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Friday, July 8, 2005 7:08 AM CDT

Hey everyone, I want to wish everyone a good weekend...we are going to Gwen's tomorrow for Toni's party...I now am convinced the babies were dropped...there are no lost kitten signs or no one has knocked on our door and asked about them....if they were dumped, I think this is cruel...they are doing good...

here are some pics from the 4th at grandpa's house....

love you all, Helen

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Thursday, July 7, 2005 9:01 AM CDT

Hey everyone, I wanted to show you guys what the babies look like....still no word about where they came from.... the black one is Salem, a boy, and the gray one is Sadie, a girl

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Wednesday, July 6, 2005 7:28 AM CDT

Hey everyone, we had a fun 4th of July...

we are helping Ashley paint her room today!!!

two little kittens came to our house yesterday...

Craig is allergic....they are in the backyard....I fear they got dumped....I am also afraid of them getting into the street...

Here are some more pics from our vacation...

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Monday, July 4, 2005 8:54 AM CDT

Happy 4th of July everyone!!!! we are going to Gwens' house first, then to grandpa's....

this just in:

"Please lift up Children of the Promise, Elizabeth, Don, and their family.
The enemy is hitting hard and we ask that you help us hit back through prayer proclaiming God's word and victory in Jesus."

love you all and be safe, Helen

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Friday, July 1, 2005 1:24 PM CDT

Hey everyone, I hope everyone has a good 4th of July weekend....we are probably going to go to grandpa's house for dinner and fireworks....Here are some pics....

love you all, Helen

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Friday, July 1, 2005 7:46 AM CDT

Hey everyone, I hope everyone has a good 4th of July weekend....we are probably going to go to grandpa's house for dinner and fireworks....Here are some pics....

love you all, Helen

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Wednesday, June 29, 2005 11:24 PM CDT

Hey everyone, we are back....craig still has the ear infection...we loved colorado....i have TONS of pics to share, but it will take me many days to go through them...here are some of the things we did....Rocky mtns, gold mining, panning for gold, dinosaur park....6 flags, a water park, mesa verde, pikes peak, the royal gorge, a chuck wagon dinner and music...a steam train ride...white water rafting....garden of the gods, the black cayon....we travled across most of the state and drove 22,009 miles on the rental car....we had fun....

i'll update with pics later...

love you all, Helen

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Monday, June 27, 2005 10:20 PM CDT

Hey everyone, we are due to come home wednesday from Colorado. craig got an ear infection the very first day and still has it....we are having a good time....i don't want to come back....being away from the stress of the real world is a treat....i hope you all are doing good....know that i have missed you all and have been praying.... will update more later...love you all, Helen

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Saturday, June 18, 2005 6:58 PM CDT

Hey everyone, we are here....long day...we are tired but having fun already....we have been put putting and go karts, and batting.... now we are ready to go to the pool and get something to eat....we are starving....nothing to eat for me all day...i'll update more tomorrow....

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Thursday, June 16, 2005 8:56 PM CDT

Hey everyone...we will be on vacation for the next 2 weeks....just know you are in our thoughts and prayers...

here are some pics from yesterday....

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Thursday, June 16, 2005 8:46 PM CDT

Hey everyone....we are going to Colorado until the end of the month....we are leaving Saturday morning....so anyway....you are all always thought of and prayed for....

love you all, Helen

---

Wednesday, June 15, 2005 6:52 PM CDT

Hey everyone....here are some pics from today with uncle kip....

---

Wednesday, June 15, 2005 8:34 AM CDT

Hey everyone, we have new a/c in the house....so we went to our neighbor's house yesterday to swim in their pool...we put our food together and made dinner for everyone...Uncle Kip made if here....he took lots of pics yesterday....he loves taking pics....he took almost 60 yesterday....we might post some today if we can stand the heat in here....yesterday it got 91 in the house....

we are sooo looking forward to our trip....it seems like summer is almost over, even though it's just begun....

have a super great wednesday....

love you all, Helen

---

Tuesday, June 14, 2005 9:09 AM CDT

NEW PICTURES OF LAUREN....IF YOU HAVE ANY PRAYER REQUESTS....PLEASE FEEL FREE TO ADD THEM IN THE GUESTBOOK....

HOPE EVERYONE IS DOING GOOD....THE KIDS ARE STILL SLEEPING...

UNCLE KIP IS COMING TODAY.....

LOVE YOU ALL, HELEN

---

Tuesday, June 14, 2005 9:07 AM CDT

New pictures of Lauren

---

Tuesday, June 14, 2005 6:59 AM CDT

Hey everyone, Uncle Kip is coming today....he is a fun uncle...we are looking forward to our trip coming up this weekend...Craig is doing good...trying to learn some math for next year...he is spending a lot of time at Matt's house....Lauren is glad Ashley is back from vacation...

need to go start cleaning....

love you all, Helen

---

Sunday, June 12, 2005 8:39 PM CDT

Hey everyone, I hope you all had a wonderful weekend...We all loved the Stars Wars movie and of course Ci Ci's was fun....Uncle Kip is coming later in the week....Anyway, here are a few pics of Lauren....









I couldn't get one of her in her stunt...I am not that good at taking pictures....oh, well, I tried...

love you all, Helen

---

Saturday, June 11, 2005 7:42 AM CDT

Happy weekend.....

Lauren has her cheerleading exhibition today....she is so nervous....we were praying for her to do well last night....Uncle Kip is at grandpa's house for a visit....grandpa is taking us and Uncle Kip and Uncle Jed to see Star Wars on the Imax tomorrow and then to Ci Ci's...Craig and Lauren's favorite pizza place only second to Chuck E. Cheese....I have some new pics of Lauren....but I want to get some pics of her today and pick out the best ones to post....

Hope you all have a good weekend....

Love you all, Helen

---

Thursday, June 9, 2005 7:49 AM CDT

Hey everyone, hope you all have a good weekend....

Lauren has got her exhibition Saturday....and Uncle Kip is coming sometime....he's at grandpa's house as of yesterday....we love Uncle Kip....we plays with the kids....

Craig spend 2 nights are Matt's house, Matt's mom said he was starting to be ugly to Craig and they brought Craig home....All kids act ugly at times....we love Matt so much....

We had a fun day yesterday at the pool, at first it started out this Lauren and 3 friends and by the end of the day 8 kids from her school were all playing together...

she finally did her back dive this year....she is always nervous from year to year doing her dives....

Anyway....I love you all, Helen

---

Tuesday, June 7, 2005 7:01 AM CDT

Hey everyone....thought I'd update....Lauren did really well at being a flyer last night...she loves it....I'll have some pics, but I'm waiting until Saturday so you can see the pics of the exhibition....Craig spent the night with Matt last night, he called and asked if he could stay for 8 days....I told me to ask Matt's mom who said yes....of course he's not going to really stay that long....he'll be home today or tomorrow.....not much else to tell...we are looking forward to our vacation...

love you all, Helen

---

Sunday, June 5, 2005 8:42 PM CDT

Hey everyone....here are some pics from the Smyrna Pool today...it's gonna start raining again tomorrow for we don't know how many days....Craig got a sunburn....shame on daddy...I was at church....it was an accident...I'm not really upset...I have forgot to re-apply before myself....

Craig remembered how to jump off the diving board...

will update more later...

Love you all, Helen

---

Saturday, June 4, 2005 3:22 PM CDT

Hey guys...we just got back from Lebanon...we got to meet Josie of Code Blue and her pretty daughter, Holly...

Here are some Pics


Helen and Josie Meet


Holly and the kids meet










Holly










Daddy bought lunch


Craig got a book for a gift


Lauren got earrings


Josie and Code Blue love Craig

Hey everyone, it's Sunday. we went to the sounds game last night for cancer survivor night....it was fun....

today we are gong swimming...it's sunny here, but will start raining again tomorrow for the nest 7 days, or so the weatherman says.....

so.....we had a great time meeting our friends yesterday....the kids really hit it off...Josie and Holly were pulling the kids on a tub with a rope in the water...you never heard such laughter...Daddy bought us all Ms Winners for lunch....the gifts in the pictures was from Josie and Holly....I didn't post all this yesterday because I ran out of time when we had to leave for the game...

Have a happy weekend

love you all,Helen

---

Friday, June 3, 2005 7:24 AM CDT

Happy weekend...

We are going to Lebanon tomorrow to meet with Josie of Code Blue....YYEEAA!! can you believe it?

Lauren got her wish to be a flyer for cheerleading...They are having an exhibition one week from tomorrow....

It's still rainy here for the next 10 days....boy, are we ever tired of that and ready to go swimming....

hope you all have a good weekend....

love you all, Helen

---

Thursday, June 2, 2005 7:34 AM CDT

Hey everyone...it's raining here and will be for the next 10 days...at least that's what the weatherman says...

Luc passed away of cancer...please remember Rachel, his wife, in your prayers...

Cindy is not sure if she has cancer yet or not....

Please feel free to send me your prayer requests...

Hope everyone is having a nice Thursday and a wonderful weekend...

love you all, Helen

---

Tuesday, May 31, 2005 7:35 AM CDT

Hey everyone, hope you all had a fun weekend. here are a few pics from yesterday...









Hey everyone....it's Wednesday....please forgive me for not answering my emails and signing guestbooks..... having problems with my computer....

just know I love you all.....Helen

---

Monday, May 30, 2005 8:00 AM CDT

Happy Memorial Day....I am still having trouble with my internet....hope this update goes through....

We are going to my sister's house to cook out...she also has a pool...lucky girl!!!!

Lauren starts her first day of cheer practice tomorrow....she is really excited.....daddy goes back to work....it'snice having him with us for an extra day!!!

Craig is wonderful!!! excited to be out of school....He is having to learn some school stuff over the summmer to prepare him for next year.....

anyway, have a super day...i'll update more when this internet lets me...

love you all, Helen

---

Saturday, May 28, 2005 6:55 AM CDT

Happy weekend everyone!!! I have had trouble with my internet and couldn't check emails or get into Craig's website or sign other people's guestbooks....so here I am...finally!!!

Schools out!!!!

Craig made Honor Roll again!!! YYEEAA!!
Lauren made principal's list and achivement!!!

Daddy is off on Monday for Memeorial Day!!!

we are going to see grandma...she is really sick!!! Rex is concerned...

Anyways, I think I'll try to sign some guestbooks....don't know if my internet will stay up loong enough or not....

love you all, Helen

---

Thursday, May 26, 2005 8:36 AM CDT

Hey everyone....Lauren did make the cheerleading team!!!! One of Craig's teachers children died in a car accident yesterday. Her name was Lori, she was 16. please pray for this family!! Here are a few pics of Lauren's cheer and the limo ride yesterday....

---

Tuesday, May 24, 2005 11:11 AM CDT

Hey everyone....graudation was great....Lauren got many awards...here are a few pics....

---

Monday, May 23, 2005 7:23 PM CDT

Hey everyone, i thought you would like to see some pics of Craig's field day today...

Lauren's graduation is tomorrow..and cheer competition tryouts are Wednesday...

---

Sunday, May 22, 2005 8:25 AM CDT

Hey everyone...Lauren got invited to be on the all-stars competing team for cheerleading....she will have to give up gymnastics competition....she is leading toward doing the cheerleading....Craig is having field day tomorrow....Lauren's class is tye dying t-shirts...she is graduating on tuesday morning...the limo ride is Wednesday...award day is Wednesday for Craig and Tuesday for Lauren....busy May.....guess what....I got to talk to Laura and Grandma this morning...I got teary eyed for a second...they are doing great....we are looking forward to summer.....have a good weekend....

love you all, Helen

here are a few pics of Lauren at her first cheerleading class yesterday

---

Friday, May 20, 2005 6:18 AM CDT

Hello everyone, I hope you all have a good weekend. It's raining here today, don't know if Craig will have field day at school today or not...I hope so....

Lauren's class has SAVE graduation and they are tie dying t-shirts.....

The limo ride is going to be Wednesday....They are getting a hummer limo...I think that's what the assistant principal told me....

My niece is graduation tonight....Craig is staying the weekend with Matt again...Lauren has a birthday sleep-over and a party tomorrow....

Daddy is leaving town tomorrow for 5 days...

Have a good weekend...

Love you all, Helen


Craiggy reading


Daddy and Craiggy


Lauren SAVE


Lauren SAVE


Lauren multi-culture concert

---

Thursday, May 19, 2005 10:16 AM CDT

Hey everyone, what a busy month!!! back to school this morning at 7:15 until 8:45, back at 12:30 until 2:45, back tonight at 6:30 until 9:00PM. I'll be at school tomorrow all day for Craig's field day and Lauren's SAVE graduation, not her class graduation which is on Tuesday morning. I have no idea what this graduation is. Anyway, I have new pics....

love you all, Helen

---

Wednesday, May 18, 2005 6:27 AM CDT

Happy Wednesday.....Craig did a great job singing last night...I have pics...I just need to get them ready....don't know when that will be....Lauren has field day today....Oh yea...she made a 6 on her writing assesment...that's the highest score...all the kids who made 6's get to go on a limo ride and to O'Charley's. Don't know when that will be...I am very proud of her...only her and one other girl in her class made 6's...we are so busy here....Lauren will be graduating this coming Tuesday....Craig has field day Friday...Awards next week...Concert for Lauren tomorrow and tomorrow night....I guess I have said just about everything...

Love you all, Helen

---

Tuesday, May 17, 2005 11:21 AM CDT

Angel Knocking
at the Door






There came a frantic knock

At the doctor's office door,

A knock, more urgent than

he had ever heard before.




~~~~




"Come in, Come in,"

the impatient doctor said,

"Come in, Come in,

before you wake the dead."




~~




In walked a frightened little girl,

a child no more than nine,

It was plain for all to see,

she had troubles on her mind.




~~~




"Oh doctor, I beg you,

please come with me,

My mother is surely dying,

she's as sick as she can be."




~~~~




"I don't make house calls,

bring your mother here,"

"But she's too sick,

so you must come or she will die I fear."




~~~~




The doctor, touched by her devotion,

decided he would go,

She said he would be blessed,

more than he could know.




~~~~




She led him to her house

where her mother lay in bed,

Her mother was so very sick

she couldn't raise her head.




~~~~




But her eyes cried out for help

and help her the doctor did,

She would have died that very night

had it not been for her kid.




~~~~




The doctor got her fever down

and she lived through the night,

And morning brought the doctor signs,

that she would be all right.




~~~~




The doctor said he had to leave

but would return again by two,

And later he came back to check,

just like he said he'd do.




~~~~




The mother praised the doctor

for all the things he'd done,

He told her she would have died,

were it not for her little one.




~~~~




"How proud you must be

of your wonderful little girl,

It was her pleading that made me come,

she is really quite a pearl!




~~~~




"But doctor, my daughter died

over three years ago,

Is the picture on the wall

of the little girl you know?"




~~~~




The doctors legs went limp

for the picture on the wall,

Was the same little girl

for whom he'd made this call.




~~~~




The doctor stood motionless,

for quite a little while,

And then his solemn face,

was broken by his smile.




~~~~




He was thinking of that frantic knock

heard at his office door,

And of the beautiful little angel

that had walked across his floor.

---

Monday, May 16, 2005 4:02 PM CDT

Hey everyone, hope you all had a good weekend. We just got back from the Chatanooga Aquarium. Fun, but a long day. The firth grades are going skating tomorrow. They are having so much fun. Craig is still doing homework even though this is the last full week of school. I forgot my new camera, too. Didn't get any pic.....my bad.

Hope everyone is doing good.

Love you all, Helen

---

Saturday, May 14, 2005 6:51 AM CDT

Happy weekend. We went out to the courtyard to dinner last night for our anniversary....it was sad...the restruant is no longer in business as of today...

Lauren is doing much better....harder not making cheerleading on her than i thought.....

What a treat....Craig spent the night with Matt last night, but 2 other boys called and wanted him to spend the night, too....

Lauren's friend was surposed to come spend the night...don't know what happened...Lauren gets home for gymnastics so late....maybe it was just too late....

Hope everyone is aving a good weekend....

Love you all, Helen

---

Friday, May 13, 2005 6:27 AM CDT

Happy weekend everyone. Lauren and Sydney didn't make the team. Way to go Amanda!!! she made it. Lauren is heartbroken. This is hard, but she'll be fine. Lauren was so precious, she said, "mommy call Ms. Holder and ask her if I can do a back round-off by tomorrow will she let me be on the team." That's how Amanda got on, she can do them. Now we know what to learn for next year. Lauren says she never wants to try again. We will change that by next year. thanks for all the prayers.

Today is our 16 year anniversary.

Love you all, Helen

---

Thursday, May 12, 2005 10:12 AM CDT

Hey everyone, I'll keep this brief. Lauren has her cheerleading tryout today!!!!! say a prayer. If she makes it, we'll have to cut our vacation 3 days short. Say a prayer. Here are pics of Lauren and 2 of her friends, Amanda and Sydney practicing at our house yesterday.

love you all, Helen


Lauren, Amanda, and Sydney

---

Wednesday, May 11, 2005 8:58 AM CDT

Hey everyone, well, I finally got the van fixed yesterday. You don't even want to know how much it cost!!!

Lauren is still going to cheerleading....try-outs are tomorrow.

I will be so glad when this school year is up!!!! So much fussing and fighting in Lauren's class. I know things like this happen, but it's old after 5 months of this.

Craig said, out of the blue, this morning, "I want want to go back to camp, it's fun." He was talking about Camp Overton. so glad he had a good time.

Daddy is sick today....went to work anyway. Could us some prayers for him.

Miss Laura and Grandma...still...

Love you all, Helen

---

Tuesday, May 10, 2005 5:46 AM CDT

Hey everyone, i have so much to tell you about camp, but no time. I am so busy the month of may. Had a volunteer breakfast yesterday. Was going to work out with Brenda, but had to pick up a sick child, not mine from school. Lauren is trying out for cheerleading. She forgot the whole routine that had to be learned by today. Children get eliminated everyday. She was crying, I didn't know anyone who could help. We called a neighbor, she had homework but was able to come help. Lauren has one thing one her side.....she is so tiny, and skinny, the teacher asked her how much she weighed and that she would make a great flyer. I guess it pays to look like a second grader sometimes. Anyway, I have an orthodontic appointment today, I broke a tooth off yesterday chewing gum. The van is having problems, the battery on the other car is dead....see why I'm trying to catch up....it's all good, i have learned that all these problems are no problems at all if you look at what these precious little children and their families face on a day-to-day basis.

I'll update mor later.....I hope

Love you all, Helen

---

Sunday, May 8, 2005 1:30 PM CDT

Hey everyone, camp overton was great!!!! I acutally sang kereoke with lauren and askley and shannon. it was so funny. we also did pie in the face...that was fun...we played lots of games of saturday and met new people. Craig made the most friends of all. I'll update more later...i am tired and have 4 loads of laundry to do. Daddy bought me a camera for mother's day and our upcoming anniversary which is Friday.

love you all, helen

this just in from Leo:

Hello Helen

I have an extremely important prayer request and I remember you have a prayer request list. Please add us to the list.

Lenka's brother's (the Father of our Princess Regina) car was stolen today.
It is their only source of money and means of survival. The car wasn't insured. We called the cops and we hope they will find it. Also a common practice in Russia is stealing a car and then calling for "ransom". If that's the case we'll have to find the money to pay for it.

Please pray for us today that everything ends well, OK? We need your prayers like we never needed before.

Thanks a lot
Leo

LENKA

---

Friday, May 6, 2005 3:12 PM CDT

I'm sending this message out to everyone I know that has a child,
grandchild, or if I think you believe in the power of prayer.
We had a very tragic accident happen in our family this weekend. My
niece's 6 year old son was playing in his driveway Friday night with his
8 year old brother while their mother watched them as she was talking to
a neighbor.
Her husband had left the house to go to the store. The 6 year old
(Nicholas) was playing on his skateboard, he fell off onto the driveway.
At the moment this was happening, his Dad was returning from the store.
It was dark and the end of their driveway is extremely dark. He turned
into the drive and actually ran over Nicholas with his truck because he
simply could not see him. My niece could see what was about to happen
but she could not stop it.
She grabbed the phone and dialed 911 immediately. Let me first tell you
he did survive but has many serious injuries.
He is currently in Pediatric ICU at Our Lady of the Lake. He lost
consciousness initially but regained it before the ambulance even
arrived.
He remained conscious until they had to intubate him in preparation for
surgery. They had to perform surgery on his leg and arm which were both
broken. The intubated him not because he was in respitory distress at
the time but because they didn't want him to go into distress after they
had put him to sleep. He has some broken ribs which puntunctured his
lungs. His leg had a compound break above the knee (femur). They had to
set it with external pins, he has what they call a fixator or a halo on
that leg. His arm was broken above the elbow (humerous). They inserted a
small wire and will cast it later once the swelling subsides. He also
has a lacerated liver, bruised kidneys and bruised spleen, and a
fractured pelvis all of which the doctors say will heal on their own
without need for surgery.
They have been keeping him heavily sedated because he tries to pull out
the tubes when he starts to wake up. They plan to slowy wean him off the
venitilator in the next couple of days but they have to be careful
because right now the biggest problem they are dealing with is the fact
that his lungs were punctured. His condition remains critical but
stable. Last night, even though sedated he was responding to the sound
of his brother and his parents voices. Things like squeeze my hand or
wiggle your toes.
All in all, the doctors say he will recover. The leg is the worst, it
will take 3 months with the fixator and then I'm not sure what they do
after that.
For the entire 3 months he will not be able to walk.
Couple of notes, his mother is pregnant, due in late October. His father
as you can imagine is experiencing horrific guilt and his brother
witnessed the whole thing. And Friday, the day it happened was his
actual birthday. He was supposed to have a party yesterday at Skate
Heaven.
So here is what I need from each of you. Please pass this on to as many
people as you can, pray for him and his family, and please add him to
any prayer list of whatever church you may attend. He is already on many
already. His name is Nicholas King, he is a kindergartner at South Live
Oak Elementary in Watson, LA. His brother also attends the same school,
he is in second grade. His name is Dylan. His parents are Brian and
Tonya King.
I beg each of you to pray for them. This has been a very difficult time
for our family. They have a great support system of many family members
and friends, but prayer is the best medicine for him and them right now.

Thank you all for taking the time to read this.

LOVE YOU ALL, HELEN

---

Thursday, May 5, 2005 6:35 AM CDT

hey everyone, camp overton is tomorrow...Craig has a field trip today....so many things gong on this month. Lauren has a field trip...field days at school. parent volunteer breakfast, etc. prayer request below:
On Friday May 6th ~*~LaKota~*~ is having an MRI test on her head and scans on her kidney, and stomach, and her lower organs, Please pray that all LaKota's tests will be 100 percent healthy, and also on Tuesday May 17th LaKota will have her one year post bone marrow transplant follow up, Please pray that it show's 100 percent healthy donor cells, Thank you for your powerful prayers for LaKota here on Earth.

Hope everyone has a great weekend.

Love you all, Helen

Friday, may 6th

We are getting ready for our trip to camp overton. But that is not why i'm updating. Grandma and Laura called yesterday and they are leaving New York today. please pray for the to have a safe trip. Laura didn't want to go home. She will always have a home with me. Also, I got a wonderful call from Barbro yesterday. Please keep praying for
Craig's scans on Sept 2nd.

Love you all, Helen

---

Wednesday, May 4, 2005 5:46 AM CDT

Hey everyone, Lauren will be graduating from grammer school May the 24th. Daddy will be gone out of town. She will begong into middle school next year. Lots of things planned at school for the month of May. Field trip, field days, graduation, award ceremonies, etc. Something almost everday. We have been invtgied to 3 senior graduations so far. Camp overton is this weekend. This is our first year to go. It should be fun.

Craig is just wanting school to be over.

Still missing Laura and grandma so much!!!

love you all, Helen

---

Monday, May 2, 2005 9:15 AM CDT

Hey everyone, we had a good weekend.

Craig's friends had fun over here at his party.

Daddy left town this morning until Friday. boo hoo

He is in sunny florida. Camp Overton is this weekend. We have never been. it's a church family retreat.

school will be out in 4 weeks. YYEEAA!!

love you all, will update more later.

Helen

---

Saturday, April 30, 2005 6:32 AM CDT

Hey everyone, hope you all are having a great weekend. First, I want to say thank you to Brenda for doing Craig's new background and the beautiful college....i swear I don't know how she puts up with me and all my requests...such a great friend..

Laura and grandma called me!!!!!! i was so happy just to hear their voices!!! LOVE YOU BOTH SO VERY MUCH!!!!

Craig is having a few friends over today to celebrate his birthday and have 2 kids spend the night.

Lauren is at a sleep over birthday.

I have to tell you this brief story...I was waiting to have lunch with Tamara, my friend, yesterday at Cracker Barrel. This wonderful woman was leaving and stops to talk to me about how happy she was....long story short...She shared about her family with me....I shared about my family with her....she prayed, out loud, right there in front of everyone for Craig. I have never had someone pray for my son like that, and I was a total straNger to her. What a blessing...I think I met an angel. She invited me to her house for home made cake. I should have gotten her number....i forgot the directions. They were in my head, it's no wonder I forgot. It goes to show people still love and care for total strangers. I have no idea why she stopped to talk to me....God gave me a gift of love yesterday and I wanted to share it with all of you......

have a great weekend. I'll update more about Craig's day.

Love you all, helen

---

Thursday, April 28, 2005 6:33 AM CDT

Hey everyone....

hope you all have a good weekend. we are not doing anything special this weekend.

Craig is having a couple of kids over to spend the night.

Lauren has gymnastics practice.

Rex is leaving town Monday for the week. boo hoo.

keep praying for Craig's scans sept. 2nd.

love you all, Helen

---

Tuesday, April 26, 2005 8:01 PM CDT

Hey everyone!!! We still miss Laura and Grandma!!!!

Craig is doing good....having fun at school.

Lauren has a BIG project due at school!!! It's a poem project. We are looking forward to school being out.
My friend called and I'll be watching her son on Monday's and Tuesday's. His name is Tanner and he is a really sweet boy!!! Craig loves him!!!

Not much else going on here!!!!

Camp overton is the first weekend of May, it's a family retreat camp.

love you all, Helen

---

Monday, April 25, 2005 8:25 AM CDT

Hey everyone, Lauren got state champion on floor and trampoline and 3rd on double mini. I am so proud of her!!!!

Craig and Logan had a good time at 6 flags. The van got towed and Rex had to pay $150 plus taxi fare to get it back...

Glad Terra Nova is over. Craig wants to have a sleep over this weekend for his birthday!!!

We still miss Laura and grandma so much!!!

I'll update more later!!! I have 1,000 things to catch up on!!!!

Love you all, Helen

---

Friday, April 22, 2005 7:43 PM CDT

Well, we are off the Lauren's final competetion of the year. It's going to be in Knoxville. We are going with Amy and her mom Suzanne. We are really looking forward to this "girls" trip.

Craig is excited to go to 6 flags with his friend, Logan.

He certainly miss Laura and grandma. I have been teary eyed every day. My friends understand how much we miss them. I have to smile when I think of the fun they are having. I know they don't want this trip to come to an end.

Terra Nova was easy for Lauren. One of Craig's teachers' told me he has a really hard time Wednesday.

We no longer wants me to come to lunch and my feelings are so not hurt. I am so glad he is not needing me so much!!!

Have a great and happy weekend everyone!!!!

Love you all, Helen

---

Thursday, April 21, 2005 6:13 AM CDT

Hey everyone, I can't tell you how much we miss Laura and Grandma...I miss them so very much!!! I also know they are having a wonderful time on the rest of there trip.

Lauren and I will be going with Amy and Suzanne on her last competition of the year this weekend. Craig is going with daddy and Logan to 6 flags for his birthday.

Still doing Terra Nova...it's tough for Craig....but he is doing great.

Love you all, Helen

---

Tuesday, April 19, 2005 6:21 PM CDT

Hey everyone, it was so hard leaving Laura and Grandma at the airport. I tried not to cry, but the tears came anyway!

They arrived safetly in New Orleans. Laura was able to send me a text message.

I can't tell you how much we miss them already!!

I'll update more later.

Love you all, Helen

NEW PICS IN THE PHOTO ALBUM!!!

---

Monday, April 18, 2005 5:54 AM CDT

Hey everyone.
This is so sweet!!! Grandma took us out to Rainforest Cafe' last night. I told her no at first and then she saide it was for Craiggy's birthday. I couldn't say no to something for the kids. Grandma bought me steak and lobster. I had never had lobster. I had always wanted to try it, but it's an expensive food. She spared no expense. She bought 2 appetizers, too. She got Craiggy the volcanoe cake. the best!!!!

We went to the belmont plantation and the Home of Andrew Jackson. We had such a good time. We took Laura shopping for a portable DVD player, which grandma bought for her birthday. She was so happy. We are shopping today for Laura's birthday. We are making a stop to starbucks.....figured out grandma loves coffee, just like me. I was crying yesterday morning thinking about them leaving. They are wonderful!!!

Love you all, Helen

---

Sunday, April 17, 2005 6:48 AM CDT

Happy Birthday, Craiggy!!!!!!!

We are going to see plantations today!!! Grandma has picked out several to see. This will be fun!!! Tomorrow we are going shopping....then grandma is cooking...YYEEAA!!

The liked CICI's a lot....so many choices....I had them bring a pepperoni pizza to the table for us. Laura and Craig played games. I am pickingup Lauren early this morning. She was going to miss Taylor's party, but she was the ONLY girl that was coming....I didn't have the heart to not let Lauren go. We got Taylor some extra goodies to make her feel better.

Lauren and Laura have no problems talking...they were teaching each other games in the van on the way home yesterday!!! They bonded immediately when they met. The kids were fighting to see how got to sit next to Laura yesterday....thank goodness she was kind enough to sit in the middle. They love her no doubt!!! Grandma is amazing....so much love!!!! If they didn't have family and friends back home, I would keep them forever.

Love you all, Helen

---

Friday, April 15, 2005 3:31 PM CDT

Hey everyone, just a brief update!!!! Laura and granadma made it here just fine!!! We were waiting for them when they got off the plane!!! i recognized Laura right away and didn't need the sign I had made with "Laura and grandma" written on it. Grandma kept the sign for a suvuneir. (sp)?

We are planning a picnic tomorrow. Not sure about Sunday.
Shopping for Laura's birthday onb Monday.

Craig did super with me not being there at lunch!!! He said he didn't want me to come anymore!!! YYEEAA!!!! I didn't take it personally at all!!!

I probably won't update anymore until Wednesday, as we wont to be out and having fun!!!! Laura and her grandma is just as wonderful as I thought they'd be......they are what family is all about!!!!!!

Saturday:

Hey everyone!!! We went hiking today...it was so pretty the weather was nice!!! I had fun, I think Laura and Grandma had fun, too. They had gifts for us to open lsat night. Craig got cars, a t-shirt and post cards...Lauren got a t-shirt, post cards, and a hand made purse. (BEAUTIFUL) Rex got a book about Hungary. I got a hand stiched picture, and a beautiful key chain, silver, with "H" on it and "Love Laura" on the back!!!

Grandma is cooking for us Monday night. She wanted to buy the food, but of course I said no. I will buy the food and she is cooking. She is making Chicken with paprika and homemade noodles from scratch....

We are going to several plantations tomorrow....probably will do so computer stuff...pictures...website...etc. If she doesn't get to teach me, that's fine....having fun is much more important. I want them to have the best time ever!!!! I truly love them!!!! They are just like I hoped they would be. Grandma and Rex share the same favorite movie....Gone with the wind...we might watch it tonight if they are not too tired from hiking. We are going out to CICI's tonight for pizza. Lauren said grandma would like it better than ordering in. They have salada and pasta, too. The good thing about CICI's os they will make pizza anyway you like.

Check back later!!!!



Love you all, Helen

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Thursday, April 14, 2005 10:41 AM CDT

Hey everyone, I'll make this brief. Laura and her grandma will be here tomorrow!!!!!!!!!!!!!

So excited.

I have so much food, I could feed an army. I am busy cleaning house today!!! I purposly waited until today because you all know how the house messes itself up everyday.

So, check back for info, hopfully pics, Laura will be showing me. She is sooo pretty. I think I'll just hide in the shadows and let you see her and the kids.

UPDATE!!!

guess what, guess what!!! Craig got honor roll!!!!! Craig got honor roll!!! guess what!!! CRAIG GOT HONOR ROLL!!!!! Lauren got principal's list. I am just as proud of her. but Craig missed a whole year of school last year, so I am very impressed with him catching up!!!! Love, Helen

Love you all, Helen

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Wednesday, April 13, 2005 6:38 AM CDT

Hey everyone, We are so excited to see Laura. She arrived safely in Atlanta. Craig is a little upset about me not being there for his lunch. The cafeteria people yell at the kids and it scares Craig. Please say a little prayer for him if this isn't too selfish.

Craig has gotta cards and gifts for his upcoming birthday Sunday....thank you everyone!!!

Please continue to pray that his upcoming scans Sept. 2nd are clear and normal.

love you all, Helen

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Monday, April 11, 2005 6:31 AM CDT

Hey everyone, hope you all had a nice weekend. I burned a candle this weekend and it burned all the way out and burned my table. I have never had this happen before. I have let candles burn out for years and not had this problem. It was one of my best tables, too.

We went hiking and on a picnic with grandpa yesterday. It was unplanned, that's the funnest. We got pretty pictures. When Laura gets here, she'll teach me how to do pictures so I can do them myself. Something I have wanted to learn for some time now. Shelly emailed me, her friend Michele had some recent scans, they are afraid the "c" is back. please keep Michele in your prayers.

Have a great week, everyone, Craig's birthday is Sunday.

Please keep praying for clear and normal scans on Sept 2nd. love you all, Helen

---

Saturday, April 9, 2005 7:15 AM CDT

Hey everyone!!!

We are super busy here this weekend.

Craig has a birthday party.

Lauren has 1 friend here and 2 coming.

Craig spent the night with a friend.

I am getting ready for Laura's

arrival.........

Craig's birthday is one week from tomorrow.

Still deciding what to do for his birthday.

Lauren has competition the following weekend.

Sounds like fun huh?

Thanks for all the prayers for Craig
for his scans on Sept 2nd.

Love you all, Helen

---

Friday, April 8, 2005 1:23 PM CDT

Hey everyone, have to tell you about our fun time last night. I invited Uncle James over for dinner. Jeff called and wanted to come. COOL!! My friend Brenda's birthday was yesterday, Lauren had invited her daughter Ashley to dinner. Brenda ended up coming with her family of four, Uncle James, and Jennifer called. Someone I have't heard from in months, she came, too. WE had a party of 10 without it being planned. It was sooooo much fun!!! Sometimes I think the unplanned things are the funnest. Everyone stayed until almost 10PM. the kids were tired this morning, but it's the weekend, so we'll catch up onour sleep. Craig has a birthday party to go to tomorrow. Lauren has gymnastics and a concert at church. She's having 2 friends comeover tomorrow night to spent the night and then it's back to reality the following Monday. Hope everyone has a great weekend.

Love you all, Helen

---

Thursday, April 7, 2005 6:34 AM CDT

Hello friends!!!! Whad fun at cici's....we always do. The kids got in bed late because we watched a movie here at home afterwards!!! Grandpa is always so good to us. The kids both have field trips coming up next month. Trying to make it to both of them. We'll see. I haven't heard from Gina to know how they are doing.

Craig is looking forward to his birthday!!! Hasn't asked for anything yet. HE WILL!!!

anyways, please pray ahead of time about his scans on Sept 2nd. Please pray that they are clear and normal. love you all, Helen

---

Wednesday, April 6, 2005 6:34 AM CDT

Happy Wednesday to you all. I haven't heard anything from Gina to know how they are doing.

Grandpa is coming in tonight and taking us out to dinner at CI CI's. Craig and Lauren love this pizza place.

We are so excited to be able to see Laura and give her a huge hug!!! She will be here for Craig's birthday. (April 17th).

Please keep praying for Craig, next scans, Sept 2nd.

Love you all, Helen

---

Monday, April 4, 2005 8:44 AM CDT

Hey Helen,
Glad you guys had fun last week, and I'm asking for another prayer request.Tim's sister died friday unexpected she was the she was the youngest of six and the only girl. Tim is taking it pretty hard, we are going to the funerl home this morning and they will bury her tomorrow. She has left behind a 19 yr old boy, and a 14 yr old boy.Please remember us today.I don't know if you knew her or not her name is Romona Higgins (maiden name) she was 36yrs old.Died on april fools day and they are having her out today,its her birthday.Please keep us in your prayers. Thanks so much.I will e-mail later.
Love Gina

Hey everyone, we are all good here. I wanted to post Gina's email. Love you all, Helen

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Saturday, April 2, 2005 10:41 AM CST

Hey everyone, Amy's mom, Suzanne, just text messaged me. They think Lauren got 2 second place medals out of 3 events. They are not for sure yet. However, we are so proud of her. Maybe we shouldn't go with her to all the competitions.

We hate to see the spring break end. At least we are now at the end of the school year.

I'll update more about Lauren when I get the final results.

Thanks for all the prayers for Craiggy.

Love you all, Helen

Here's the update:

Lauren got one 2nd place, one third place and one 10th place. There were 15 competitors. She did wonderful!!! This was only her second competition and she has only been taking gymnastics for 5 months. Most of the kids have been taking for 2 years. We are so very proud of her!!!!

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Thursday, March 31, 2005 7:32 PM CST

Hey everyone, thanks for all the Easter wishes. We had so much fun in Georgia. The first day at 6 flags was very interesting. The first 3 rides we went on, something happened. The first ride, Lauren and I went and Rex and Craig took the ride right after us. A girl had a seisure at the end of our ride and Rex and Craig were riding the ride when it stopped for no reason at the top of the first hill. They were stuck on the ride for almost 30 minutes. The ride finally started moving and moved up enough to let everyone off except for the people sitting on the last two rows. Can you guess where Rex and Craig were sitting? THE LAST ROW!!! OF COURSE!! They were fine. Rex kept Craig calm and Lauren kept me calm. The next two rides were having problems, too. At that point, so good old fashion prayer is what I decided we needed. Had fun the rest of the day. Went back to 6 flags on Sunday. It was not crowded at all, got right on the rides without having to wait at all, or no more than 1 ride.

We cut our vacation short because Lauren is off to her second competition tomorrow. She is going with Amy's family. Amy went with us the first time. Rex is working tomorrow.

Craig's birthday is 2 weeks from Friday. April 17th. LAURA WILL BE HERE!!!!! YYYEEAA!!!!

The Easter Bunny was so nice to come Thursday night and leave the Easter baskets for Friday. (Craig still believes in everything) That Easter Bunyy sure knows what my kids like. Lauren got Hilary Duff movies and Craig got Yu-Gi-Oh cards. Candy, of course, was in the baskets. too.

Well, enough about us. Hope everyone out there had a great Easter, so sorry about the drop down box with Craig's friends being gone. Just know that I have your links saved on my notepad. love you all, Helen

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Friday, March 25, 2005 7:29 AM CST

Happy Easter everyone, and a good weekend to you all!!!

Lauren got best dressed for wacky-tacky day yesterday!!! She did look great. We did get pictures, however, you guys all know I'm waiting for Laura's arrival to teach me how to do pictures.

We are off to Georgia tomorrow. I won't get to post a journal entry for a week.

Just know I love you all...and thank you for praying for Craig...Helen

---

Thursday, March 24, 2005 6:58 AM CST

Hello everyone, I hope you all have a good weekend. Lauren's class is doing wacky-tacky day at school...she looks so funny...clothes inside out...two different shoes...makeup on half of her face...we won't even get into how her hair looks!!!!

We start spring break after school today!!!YYEEAA!!!!!

We will be going to Georgia, that's what we usually do.

Thanks for all the prayers for Craig....Next scans are Sept 2nd. Please start praying ahead of time......

Love you all, Helen

---

Tuesday, March 22, 2005 11:18 AM CST

Thank you everyone who wished my a Happy Birthday yesterday!!!

We are looking forward to spring break!!!!

Craig's allergies are really bothering him. Not too much I can do about that...he is already on medicine.

Lauren's 2nd competition is ocming up the weekend after this one. She will be going with Amy. They are so good together.

I wanted to wish everyone a Happy Easter.

love you all, Helen

---

Sunday, March 20, 2005 6:41 AM CST

HEY HELEN THIS IS DEBBIE, WISHING YOU A HAPPY 41st BIRTHDAY!!!!! (MONDAY MARCH 21st) STOP BY AND WISH HELEN A HAPPY BIRTHDAY, THANK YOU.

Hey everyone, it's been a good weekend. cleaned most of the day yesterday...

I got a call lfrom my mother telling me her friend's daughter, Ashley, was being admitted to the hospital for a brain tumor..."C"...momma is taking care of her other 2 children....I makes me so sad to her these situations....knowing what this family is about to face....not being able to take it all away....I'm going to have to stop and think of cheery things...I tend to get down easity sometimes....I plan to find out more about this little girl...Momma says she's about 10...

Love you all, Helen


THANK YOU ALL FOR ALWAYS PRAYING FOR CRAIG!!!

Hey everyone, I was going to add a new journal....But I am so pleased that Debbie remembered my birthday and added the journal entry!!!!! Thank you Debbie!!!!!

We celebrated my birthday yesterday because daddy has a dinner program tonight and will not be home until late....Lauren bought me a new watch, with her own money...Craig and Rex bought me a sony FM/CD PLAYER/M3P PLAYER...I will use it often, I love music....

Thank you all for praying for Craig....Next scans...Sept. 2nd.

Love you all, Helen


EASTER STORY

Jeremy was born with a twisted body and a slow mind. At the age of 12 he was still in second grade, seemingly unable to learn. His teacher, Doris Miller, often became exasperated with him. He would squirm in his seat, drool, and make grunting noises. At other times, he spoke clearly and distinctly, as if a spot of light had penetrated the darkness of his brain. Most of the time, however, Jeremy just irritated his teacher. One day, she called his parents and asked them to come in for a consultation. As the Forresters entered the empty classroom, Doris said to them, "Jeremy really belongs in a special school. It isn't fair to him to be with younger children who don't have learning problems. Why, there is a five-year gap between his age and that of the other students."
Mrs. Forrester cried softly into a tissue, while her husband spoke. "Miss Miller," he said, "there is no school of that kind nearby. It would be a terrible shock for Jeremy if we had to take him out of this school. We know he really likes it here." Doris sat for a long time after they had left, staring at the snow outside the window. Its coldness seemed to seep into her soul. She wanted to sympathize with the Forresters. After all, their only child had a terminal illness. But it wasn't fair to keep him in her class. She had 18 other youngsters to teach, and Jeremy was a distraction. Furthermore, he would never learn to read and write. Why waste any more time trying?
As she pondered the situation, guilt washed over her. 'Here I am complaining when my problems are nothing compared to that poor family.' she thought. 'Lord, please help me be more patient with Jeremy.' From that day on, she tried hard to ignore Jeremy's noises and his blank stares. Then one day, he limped to her desk, dragging his bad leg behind him. "I love you, Miss Miller." he exclaimed, loud enough for the whole class to hear. The other students snickered, and Doris' face turned red. She stammered, "Wh-why that's very nice, Jeremy. N-now please take your seat."
Spring came, and the children talked excitedly about the coming of Easter. Doris told them the story of Jesus, and then to emphasize the idea of new life springing forth, she gave each of the children a large plastic egg. "Now," she said to them, "I want you to take this home and bring it back tomorrow with something inside that shows new life. Do you understand?" "Yes, Miss Miller." the children responded, enthusiastically, all except for Jeremy. He listened intently; his eyes never left her face. He did not even make his usual noises. Had he understood what she had said about Jesus' death and resurrection? Did he understand the assignment? Perhaps she should call his parents and explain the project to them.
That evening, Doris' kitchen sink stopped up. She called the landlord and waited an hour for him to come by and unclog it. After that, she still had to shop for groceries, iron a blouse, and prepare a vocabulary test for the next day. She completely forgot about phoning Jeremy's parents.
The next morning, 19 children came to school, laughing and talking as they placed their eggs in the large wicker basket on Miss Miller's desk. After they completed their math lesson, it was time to open the eggs. In the first egg, Doris found a flower. "Oh yes, a flower is certainly a sign of new life." she said. "When plants peek through the ground, we know that spring is here." A small girl in the first row waved her arm. "That's my egg, Miss Miller." she called out. The next egg contained a plastic butterfly, which looked very real. Doris held it up. "We all know that a caterpillar changes and grows into a beautiful butterfly. Yes, that's new life, too." Little Judy smiled proudly and said, "Miss Miller, that one is mine." Next, Doris found a rock with moss on it. She explained that moss, too, showed life. Billy spoke up from the back of the classroom, "My daddy helped me," he beamed. Then Doris opened the fourth egg. She gasped. The egg was empty. Surely it must be Jeremy's, she thought, and of course, he did not understand her instructions. If only she had not forgotten to phone his parents. Because she did not want to embarrass him, she quietly set the egg aside and reached for another.
Suddenly, Jeremy spoke up. "Miss Miller, aren't you going to talk about my egg?" Flustered, Doris replied, "But Jeremy, your egg is empty." He looked into her eyes and said softly, "Yes, but Jesus' tomb was empty, too." Time stopped. When she could speak again, Doris asked him, "Do you know why the tomb was empty?" "Oh, yes." Jeremy said, "Jesus was killed and put in there. Then His Father raised Him up." The recess bell rang. While the children excitedly ran out to the schoolyard, Doris cried. The cold inside her melted completely away.
Three months later, Jeremy died. Those who paid their respects at the mortuary were surprised to see 19 eggs on top of his casket ... all of them empty.
Happy Easter ...

---

Friday, March 18, 2005 11:27 AM CST

Hey everyone, I wanted to wish everyone a happy weekend... I have the update on Gina, my cousin's, mother...

Gina writes:

Hi Helen,
Mom went to the Dr. yesterday, she has to go Tuesday and have something put under her skin to do the chemo,and she will start the chemo good friday.She will have the treatment once every two weeks, for 4 months.Please ask everyone to pray for her that this will make her "C" free.I pray that this don't make her so sick, he told her some people don't get sick and some do, some don't lose thier hair and some do, so we will just have to wait to see.I will keep you up to date on everything. Thank you so much for the prayers. Love you all, Gina

---

Wednesday, March 16, 2005 5:36 PM CST

Hey everyone, just letting you know everyone is doing good. Craig is sturggling in school a little.

we are looking forward to Spring break which starts one week from Friday.

I think we are going to Georgia, to Stone Mountain.

we will probably be there for Easter.

I should find out more about Gina's mother tomorrow.

love you all, Helen

---

Tuesday, March 15, 2005 6:23 AM CST

Hey everyone. please keep Gina's mother in your prayers. she'll find out Thursday what kind of chemo she'll be put on and how much!!!

grandpa took us to the rodeo sunday and then out to cici's.

Nothing new going on this week.

still PRAISING GOD for clear and normal scans.

Ashley, don't know much about her, is doing bad. they have given no hope with winning the battle over "C". please keep her in your prayers as well.

love you all, Helen

---

Sunday, March 13, 2005 6:08 AM CST

PRAISE THE LORD!!!!

SCANS ARE CLEAR AND NORMAL!!!!!

Just found out last night about 7:00PM.

Thank you for all the prayers.

Please keep praying for Craig.

Love you all,

Helen

this is from my cousing Gina:

Hi Helen,
It was great talking to you last night.It was such a blessing to hear that craig's scans was clear.PRAISE THE LORD!!!!!!
I wanted to ask for prayers for my mom,she goes thursday to find out about the chemo she has to start.Please have the prayer warriors to pray that she does have to take it long,and that she will be healed of the cancer.Thank you and God Bless
I will let you know more later. Love Gina

---

Saturday, March 12, 2005 7:58 AM CST

Hey everyone, hope you are all having a nice weekend. Long day yesterday, will know the results Monday. Got to be on 107.5 The River yesterday. They are doing a radiothon for the Children's Hospital. It was an honor to participate.

Please keep praying that they scans come back clear and normal. love you all, Helen

---

Wednesday, March 9, 2005 6:17 AM CST

Hey everyone, thanks for all the prayers. just to let you know, the email is acting up again. I am having trouble posting sometimes. If I haven't gotten back to you, now you know I want too, just having trouble doing so.

Craig has scans Friday, please

pray that they are clear and

normal.

Love you all, Helen

FRIDAY

We are off for scans. Please pray that they are CLEAR AND NORMAL. Thanks, Love, Helen

---

Tuesday, March 8, 2005 5:43 PM CST

Tyler is now an angel. He passed away about 2:00 yesterday, (Monday).

Please pray for Craig on Friday, he has scans. love, helen

---

Monday, March 7, 2005 11:37 AM CST

Hey everyone. this is my second attemp to update. Lauren got 2 third place metals and one 7th place medal. It was a long trip, but she did really well for her first time. She messed up on her tramp routine and was crying. Coach John spent time talking to her and made things better. He is such a good coach. Amy did really well, 2 first place and one 5th place. It was so great to have her with us.

I'll update more later.

Love you all, Helen

---

Friday, March 4, 2005 6:19 AM CST

Wanted to wish everyone a great weekend. We are off to North Carolina for gymnastics. Rex woke up not feeling good, can I ask for MORE prayes. It's going to be a long trip. I am meeting Amy's mom in Murfreesboro to pick up Amy, she is going with us.. YYEEAA!!!!

please continue to pray for Craig's scans next week.

Love you all, Helen

---

Wednesday, March 2, 2005 6:21 AM CST

Hello friends!!! This is picture day at school. We got a 2 hour late start yesterday because of snow. It didn't stick and by noon, it was all gone. Lauren is looking forward to her first competition. Nervous, and is practicing on her own everyday. We are dreading the drive to North Carolina. I'm hoping Craig does well Saturday, it's an all day thing.

Please pray for Craig's upcoming scans, March 11th. love you all, Helen

Thursday, March 3, 2004

Hey everyone, just wanted to wish everyone a great weekend. WE have a new friend, Johnny, please visit his website: JOHNNY

love you all, Helen

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Sunday, February 27, 2005 2:15 PM CST

Our little girl is now a big girl and officially baptised. Of course, I cried.

please continue to pray for Craig and his ears, and his next scans, which are March 11th and for his friend, Tyler. Love, Helen



this just in from Emily:

many of you guys know that I am involved with the childrens cancer research fund back home in minnesota, and this weekend is the KS95 for kids radiothon.

The ks95 for kids radiothon rasies money for the childrends cancer research fun and gillettes childrens hopsital.

You're probably wondering why I'm telling all of you about this radiothon and that fact is, I'm not home this year to help. This year We lost one of my friends from radiothon and it's very hard not getting to be there this year. This year it will be at Ridgedale Center at the Ridgedale Mall in Minnetonka and I encourge all of you that live there to go down and see the miracles that happen. It will go on from this friday to Sunday. you can also call 1877-253-KIDS.
You can also go to www.ks95.com and donate online and also bid for amazing items from rockstars, trips, everything like that.

Please help!!!!!! if you can.
if you can't help please pass this along to others?

Thanks everyone!

Emily

---

Saturday, February 26, 2005 6:57 AM CST

HEY EVERYONE, THANKS SO MUCH FOR CHECKING ON CRAIG.

GLAD IT'S THE WEEKEND. CRAIG SPENT THE NIGHT WITH TYLER LAST NIGHT, MEAGAN AND JARED CAME OVER AND BROUGHT THE "RAISE YOUR VOICE" HILARY DUFF MOVIE....LAUREN LOVES HILARY. ELLIE, LAUREN'S FRIEND CALLED WHILE WE WERE IN GYMNASTICS AND INVITED LAUREN TO SPEND THE NIGHT...WE INVITED ELLIE FOR THE WEEKEND SO SHE COULD GO TO LAUREN'S BAPTISM TOMORROW. LAUREN'S COACH, JOHN, IS GOING TO BE THERE. HE IS DRIVING 1 1/2 JUST TO MAKE IT.

WE ALL HAVE COLD HERE. HOWEVER, LAUREN AND CRAIG GOT THE FLU SHOT, SO LAUREN GOT A MILD CASE OF THE FLU, NOT MISSING ANY SCHOOL, BUT NOT FEELING QUITE WELL EITHER. SHE GOT ALL A'S ON HER REPORT CARD. CRAIG GOT E'S AND S'S. I AM VERY PROUD OF THEM BOTH. CRAIG HAD DONE SO WELL IN TRYING TO CATCH UP WITH EVERYONE ELSE CONSIDERING HE MISSED A FULL YEAR OF SCHOOL AND ONLY GOT 3 HOURS A WEEK FROM HOME BOUND.

PLEASE KEEP PRAYING FOR CRAIG'S EAR AND HIS UPCOMING SCANS WHICH ARE MARCH 11TH. PLEASE, PLESE ALSO REMEMBER TYLER, CRAIG'S FRIEND WHO IS NOT DOING VERY WELL AND IS ON HOSPICE.

LOVE YOU ALL, HELEN

this just in from Gina, my cousin:

Please ask everyone to pray for my mother still, she had her surgery and it is colon cancer.She is going to have to take cemo.Please ask everyone to keep praying for her and to put her on thier prayer list at church.Tell Lauren I'm very proud of her for making great on her report card but, most of all for getting saved and baptised.( PRAISE THE LORD )Tell Craige I,m prode of him for a great report card too.Hope you all are well. Talk to you soon. Love Gina

---

Thursday, February 24, 2005 6:29 AM CST

Hey everyone, thanks for checking on Craig. WE are doing good, looking forward tothe weekend. The flu is going around her, Lauren has a mild case. She and Craig were able to get the flu shots because of Craig's immune system. So lucky, not everyone wasw able to get the shots because of short supply. Please keep praying for Craig and Tyler. Lauren's first competition is next weekend. love you all, Helen

---

Tuesday, February 22, 2005 6:49 AM CST

Hey everyone, hope you all had a nice long weekend. not long enough for us. skating was fun, but long. I didn't skate. the kids had fun. so many kids there. Lauren saw about 10 people she knew. Looking forward to Sunday. She's starting to get a little nervous. Doing errands today and spening the day at school with Lauren's class. Please pray for Craig's friend TylerHe is not feeling good at all and is on hospice.

love you all, Helen

---

Sunday, February 20, 2005 8:25 PM CST

HEY EVERYONE, NO WORD ON GINA'S MOTHER. WE HAD A REALLY GOOD WEEKEND. LAUREN AND DADDY JUST GOT BACK FROM THE FATHER DAUGHTER BANQUET. THEY BOTH DID THE HOKEY-POKEY AND DANCED. THE FOOD WAS ITALIAN. THEY HAD SO MUCH FUN. FOR DESSERT THEY HAD CHEESE CAKE.

NO SCHOOL TOMORROW. IT'S A HOLIDAY (PRESIDENT'S DAY)

WE ARE GOING SKATING TOMORROW. HOPEFULLY WE WILL HAVE FUN. WISH DADDY HAD THE DAY OFF, BUT HE WILL BE WORKING.

CRAIG HAS A COUGH AND SNEEZING. LOTS OF PEOPLE AROUND HERE ARE SICK.

THIS IS SO COOL, CRAIG WAS THE ONLY ONE IN SUNDAY SCHOOL WIHTOUT A BIBLE. HIS FRIEND, HEATH'S MOM, HAD BEEN TRYING TO CALL ME, SHE WAS CLEANING HOUSE AND FOUND AN EXTRA KIDS BIBLE AND ASKED IF CRAIG HAD A BIBLE. THIS IS SUCH A GOD THING, BECAUSE HE DIDN'T HAVE A CHANCE TO GET ONE THIS WEEK. SHE HAD IT IN HER CAR WAITING TO TALK TO ME. WE ARE SO GRATEFUL. LINDA, CRAIG'S SUNDAY SCHOOL TEACHER USED IT TODAY FOR CLASS.

SUNDAY LAUREN WILL BE GETTING BAPTISED. SO VERY PROUD OF HER. WELL, I'LL CLOSE FOR NOW. LOVE YOU ALL, HELEN, CRAIG, AND LAUREN

---

Wednesday, February 16, 2005 12:56 AM CST

Just came back from the Dr. still some fluid behind his ear drum. (left ear) please continue to pray for him. love, Helen

Thursday, just got an email from my cousin, Gina, her mom is having surgery for colon cancer tomorrow.

Also, Lauren, my precious 10 year old daughter will be getting baptised one week from this Sunday. YOU ARE ALL INVITED. love, Helen

---

Tuesday, February 15, 2005 6:21 AM CST

Well, every now and then Rex can sure pull a rabbit out of his hat. What a wonderful Valentine's Day last night. He arranged for grandpa to come watch the kids, brought them pizza home for supper and took me out. He brought me home a BIG box of candy from the kids and a card with a poem, which he had written. Then, we went to have margarita's at one of our favorite places. Next, we went to a Hawaiian resturant. The wait was about an hour. He had planned to take me out for dessert, but we ran out of time. We didn't want to take advantage of grandpa, so we came home. Craig was still awake. Granpa let them stay up late, which was ok with us, but Craig has to know that I'm home to be able to go to sleep. Lauren was already asleep. Michael had bought her a teddy bear in a basket. Jeff bought her flowers, candy, two bears, and a card. Kristin got the kids candy. I hope everyone of you had as great a Valentine's as I did. Thank you honey!!!

Oh yes, Craig has a follow-up Dr.s appointment tomorrow for his ears. Love you all, Helen

---

Sunday, February 13, 2005 12:02 AM CST

Hey everyone, I hope this computer is working better. I have so many emails and guestbooks to sign. I have tried many, many times to sign guestbooks and return emails, but this computer has a mind of it's own.

Lauren wants to be baptised. WE are so sxcited. Her Sunday school teacher thinks she ready, now she'll talk to the pastor for his imput. WE are proud of her whichever way the pastor thinks she should go.

Lauren is also testing for the Spctrum program, which is a program for the gifted and talented kids. We will be pleased whether she gets in or not. She is the youngest in her class, so we know she is a bright girl. Craig is leadng the class in the math, timed challange. I am so proud. He is catching up so nicely.

Happy Valentines day to you all. please keep on praying for Craig. love you all, Helen

---

Thursday, February 10, 2005 8:34 AM CST

Hello friends,

WE are looking forward to the weekend.

Craig is doing good in math. They have timed adding tests they take and Craig is leading the class. I about fell over when his teacher, Mrs. Gunder, told me about it yesterday. Lauren is excited about competing. She learned, on her own, to do a back hand spring and a back hand flip of some kind. I don't know what these tricks are called, I just know she can do them now. Her coach is looking forward to her showing him tomorrow.

Valentines Day is just around the corner. WE aren't doing anything special. The kids are having parties in their classes.

It's actually snowed some here last night, didn't amount to anything.

thanks to everyone who is praying for Craig. if I haven't answered your emails or signed guestbooks, it's this computer. Rex is trying to fix it, don't know if it's fixed yet or not.

Happy weekend. love you all, Helen

---

Monday, February 7, 2005 6:28 AM CST

Hi everyone, hope everyone's weekend was good. first I have to tell you, I can't pull up anyone's questbooks. so my email is still not working right. obviously it's my computer. I dont' like when this happens. so sorry, i do visit the websites.

I went to a play with my friend, Lisa, yesterday. We had so much fun. Rex took Lauren our for a daddy/daughter date because she's having so much trouble with her friends. I took Craig to chuck E. Cheese for some time with the two of us together.

Hope everyone has a good week. love, Helen

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Tuesday, February 1, 2005 1:20 PM CST

Well, we were back to the doctors yesterday. the infection didn't go away. stressed of course.

Today my friend Linda and I met for Starbucks. Linda had never had starbucks before. She took a likeing right away. She was meeting her mom afterwards, sorry mom, I think she's wired. We had such a good time. WE spend 2 1/2 hours there. Would have stayed longer only I had to eat lunch with Craig and she was meeting her mom at noon. Definately will do this again. Linda and her husband Tom are Craig's sunday school teachers, by the way. Tom has really taken Craig under his wing. He didn't want to go at first, but Tom and Linda made the transition so much easier.

Lauren is bringing home a friend from school. Surprised? She is such a social butterfly. She pretty muchy always has a friend over or is over at a friends house.
I have been invited to go to a play this Sunday. don't know the name, don't care, as long as I get to go. My friend, Lisa, was so kind to invite me. Our hubbys want to watch the football game. I think most men will want to watch.

Lauren has officially gotten her competition leotard. She looks so cute in it, too. March 4th and 5th in N.C. is her first competition. She is so nervous, and excited.

Please pray about Craig's ear. (You knew that was coming)

Love you all, Helen

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Sunday, January 30, 2005 8:19 AM CST

Hope everyone had a good weekend. WE are off to church. It was a busy weekend. Craig spent the night away both nights this weekend. what a treat. Lauren spent one night away and has a friend over now that spent the night last night. The kids loved the circus. Daddy and I loved out little lunch date together. I think we should do it more often. I guess it's back to the real world tomorrow. I'm taking Lauren and two of her friends shopping today. I'm looking forward to it too. Lauren is gone so much, it's going to be fun spending some time with her. Although I still have to share her with her 2 friends.

have a good week, love you all, and please continue to pray for Craig.

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Friday, January 28, 2005 6:25 AM CST

Hello good frends. I wish everyone a happy weekend. Well, today's a great day!!! Lauren and Craig are going on the same field trip and I am having lunch with daddy. This is the very first time in over 16 years of being together that we have ever done this. fun huh? The kids are going to the circus!!! I think the teachers are just as excited as the kids. AT least Craig's teacher is. anyways, just wanted to contiue to thank all of your praying for Craig. please forgive my not answering your emails, most of the emails are not going through. I don't like when this happens. Remember I love you all, Helen

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Wednesday, January 26, 2005 10:52 AM CST

Hey everyone, went to O'Charley's last night. I don't cook very well, so that was a real treat!!! Alex, Lauren's friend came along!! We are so looking forward to the weekend. Daddy comes home tonight, don't know what time.

Email is still having probleme. However, the ones that are coming through, there still are lots of people praying the scriptures OUT LOUD for Craig. thank you. the best gift in the world is prayer.

love you all, Helen

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Monday, January 24, 2005 7:03 AM CST

What an interesting weekend. Lauren accidently slammed Craig's hand in her door. We got invited to friend's house Saturday night for pizza. lot of fun. Sandy and Annetta brought over Craig's hand made quilt. BEAUTIFUL!!! Michael came over Saturday. What a great boy!!! He and Lauren and Craig helped me clean the house. Craig and Michael really hit it off. they had never met before. gotta go. love you all, Helen


Just to let everyone know, Craig's fingers and hand are ok. He did fine in school yesterday. Daddy is away on business, so we are going out to dinner tonight. Both the kids are going Friday to the circus on a field trip. This is the first time they have ever been on a field trip together. Rex is taking me out to lunch. In 16 years of being together, we have never met for lunch together. It doesn't matter where we go, this will be such a treat!!!!!

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Saturday, January 22, 2005 8:55 AM CST

Happy weekend everyone! Craig has an ear infection and his eyes are infected, too.

I took him back to school yesterday after his Drs. appointment, but we came back home because he just didn't feel good.

I have to tell you the other day when I had a flat on the van and the battery was dead on the car, that my neighbor, Lee, came to my rescue. He called, came over, and fixed the flat and fix the battery. I didn't have to walk to school. I didn't ask for help, he just saw the vehicles and was an angel who came to help. THANKS LEE!!!!!

I am picking up Michael today if he is up to coming over and bringing him to play with Craig. They have never met before. Michael is the less fortunate child who Lauren helps and Michael just adores her. I'm looking forward to having him spend some time at our home. What a blessing to be able to love Michael and have him here. I talked with his mom on the phone and we immediately felt a closeness. I look forward to meeting her today.

Lauren had a spare-of-the-moment sleep over invitation. Jazmine had a birthday sleep-over at her mom's last weekend. Lauren had fun. Now Jazmine's dad is having a bon-fire, sleep-over. I was so happy that Lauren's was invited.

Rex is preparing for his trip next week.

I want to thank Barbro for being a great friend and always being there for me. I LOVE YOU BARBRO!!!!!

THANK YOU ALL WHO MAKE CRAIG A PART OF YOUR DAILY PRAYERS. PRAYER REALLY DOES WORK!!!!!! PRAISE GOD FOR GOOD HEALTH!!! Love you all, Helen

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Friday, January 21, 2005 7:59 AM CST

Happy weekend!! Craig's left ear is hurting now and his eyes are infected (I guess). could you please pray the scriptures OUT LOUD again for Craig. I'm very tired of this stress. 1 Peter 2:24, Mark 11:23, Psalm 30:2. thanks, love, Helen

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Wednesday, January 19, 2005 7:28 AM CST

What a day!!! I have a flat tire on the van, a dead battery on the old car, and Rex's manager is riding with him today. boy, we could use some prayers. I'm planning to walk to the school and try to find a way home after school. At any rate, please pray for Rex and his manager Kerry to have a great day!!! Love you all, Helen

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Monday, January 17, 2005 12:28 AM CST

Praise the Lord OUT LOUD!!!!! The scan is fine!!!!!! Thank you all who prayed the scriptures OUT LOUD for Craig, please continue to do so. Prayer does make a difference!!!!!

Love you all!!!!!!!!!!!!

I have been trying to send out emails to let everyone know the great news, however, my email is down!!!Thank you everyone, thank you, thank you, thank you!!! I am so grateful to you all!!! Love, Helen

Thanks for all the comments about the pictures. However, I must give credit where credit is due....Laura, my sweet family away from home is responsible. Leo, my friend, I'm afraid I still haven't found the manual. Laura will be teaching me when she comes for a visit in April. LOVE YOU LAURA!!!!!!!

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Monday, January 10, 2005 9:14 AM CST

Friday is the day for the repeat scan. Thank you everyone who is praying the scriptures OUT LOUD for Craig. 1 Peter 2:24, Psalm 30:2, Mark 11:23. It means so much to me. Love, Helen

Tuesday

this just in:

Helen,
Just wanted to ask for some prayers for my sister-in-laws mother,they had to take her to the hospital last night,they found out she has sugar very bad,and now they think she has had a stroke.Please pass this on to all your prayer partners. Thanks
Love Gina


Tuesday evening:

This is just too precious not to share tonight. Michael, a less fortunate child in Lauren's class, came up to me and gave me all the money he had in his pocket and asked me to give it to Lauren because she gave him her doritos for snack. This is a very poor child, he was one of the children the class sponsored over the holiday. He gave nickles, dimes, and quarters. I had to hold back the tears. I took the money because it was a gift from his heart and i didn't want to rob him of his blessing from God. You can bet, I'll be bringing him snacks so he'll have plenty. Ms. McHenry asked him what snacks he liked so he wouldn't feel on the spot. His reply is so cute.....He said, "well I'll eat anything except broccoli". I had to share what a precious child he is. Ms. McHenry told he has a special place in his heart for Lauren. How lucky is to be so loved!!!!! We love Michael, too!!!!!

Sunday

Just wanted to let everyone know we won't know the results of the repeat scan until tomorrow. I was told we would get the results in 1 hour, which wasn't the case. please continue to pray the scriptures for Craig. That's all I know what to do. I'll update when I know more. love you all, Helen

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Thursday, January 6, 2005 4:02 PM CST

Hey everyone, several people have indicated that they are praying the scriptures for Craig. THANK YOU, THANK YOU EVERYONE WHO IS DOING THIS FOR CRAIG. There is power in prayer and power in the word. Lauren wants everyone to pray for her friend Michael in her class. He seems to get sick EVERYDAY at school. I think it's his nerves, he is a special boy, so sweet. This is his first year in a regular class, I think this is a hard adjustment for him. Anyways, please remember Michael also. Another friend, Ethan, has 2 spots on his latest scan, I spoke with his granparents on the phone yesterday and the day before. It doesn't mean the spots are anything, but once again, I'm asking for prayers for Ethan. Praying for each other increases the number of prayers for everyone. Anyway, I love you all, Helen

Happy weekend. Lauren is spending the night with a friend tonight, I am going to an adult women's tupperware sleep-over party and Daddy and Craig are having a "boys night, sleep-over" together. Sounds like a great weekend huh? Next weekend, Lauren has 3 parties and Craig has one to go to. It keeps us so busy. But this is a good busy. wanted to wish everyone a great weekend. love you all, Helen

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Tuesday, January 4, 2005 8:01 AM CST

Hello friends. Not much to tell here. It was a little hard to go back to school yesterday. Craig never likes to go to school. He is still struggling in school. at any rate, thanks for all the prayers for Craig, please continue to pray the scriptures OUT LOUD for Craig. 1 Peter 2:24, Psalm 30:2, Psalm 107:2-3. thanks so much, Love, helen

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Sunday, January 2, 2005 11:28 AM CST

Hey everyone, and Happy New Year!!!!!! Well it's back to reality tomorrow. the breaks always seem to go so fast!!! Craig and Lauren don't want to go back to school. I always get a little depressed when the break is over. thank you all who are praying the scriptures OUT LOUD for Craig. 1 Peter 2:24, Psalm 30:2 Psalm 107:20 and Psalm 103:2-3. It means so much to us!!! We are taking the kids out, don't know where yet, for one last fun day before school starts back. we are going out to dinner, just not sure where. it's always great not to have to cook. You can tell i'm burned out of cooking. we still have to put the x-mas stuff back in the attic. it's all packed up, just still on the floor. i got outside decorations for next year at 75% clearance. the kids have wanted outside lights for years, just always gets put off until the next year, and then the next and so forth.

well, again please pray for Craig's upcoming repeat scan on Jan 14th. love you all, Helen

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